In News:

The Sahara Desert, one of the driest regions globally, is undergoing a surprising transformation due to an extratropical cyclone that impacted northwestern Africa on September 7-8, leading to patches of green across Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.

Key Details:

• Satellite Observations: NASA's satellite images reveal extensive greenery sprouting in areas typically known for drought conditions, as reported by NASA’s Earth Observatory.
• Flourishing Vegetation: Climate researcher Sylwia Trzaska noted that shrubs and trees are thriving in low-lying regions like riverbeds. Peter de Menocal, president of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, highlighted that plant life can quickly respond to significant rainfall, transforming dunes into vibrant landscapes.
• Historical Context: Research indicates that the Sahara was once a lush environment with lakes and vegetation between 11,000 and 5,000 years ago. Recent heavy rains have replenished normally dry lakes.
• Rainfall Dynamics: The unusual rainfall event is attributed to the northward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which has moved further north than usual, resulting in equatorial-like downpours in the Sahara. Some areas experienced over half a foot of rain, surpassing typical annual precipitation levels.
• Impact of Rain Patterns: While the rains primarily affected less populated regions, severe flooding has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and impacted around four million people across 14 African nations, according to reports from the World Food Programme and Associated Press.
• Climate Change Factors: Experts suggest that the repositioning of the ITCZ may be connected to record-high ocean temperatures and climate change, potentially altering rainfall patterns across Africa.
• Future Projections: As global ocean temperatures stabilize, de Menocal predicts that the rain belt may revert to a more southerly position, potentially crossing the equator.
• Sahara Desert Facts:

o   The Sahara is the world's largest hot desert, spanning approximately 4,800 km in length and 1,800 km in width.

o   It covers about 31% of the African continent, extending across 11 North African nations, including Algeria, Egypt, Mali, Morocco, Western Sahara, Tunisia, Chad, Libya, Mauritania, Niger, and Sudan

In News:

The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is set to assess the integration of the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) with cross-border remittances via the global postal network, according to a recent official announcement.

About the Universal Postal Union

The UPU is a specialized agency of the United Nations and serves as the main platform for international cooperation in the postal sector. Established by the Treaty of Bern in 1874, it stands as the second oldest international organization in the world.

Functions

The UPU coordinates postal policies among its member nations and oversees the global postal system. It establishes the rules for international mail exchanges and makes recommendations aimed at enhancing the volume and quality of mail, parcel, and financial services. Additionally, it plays an advisory, mediating, and liaison role while providing technical assistance when necessary.

Membership

Any member state of the United Nations is eligible to join the UPU. Non-member countries can also become UPU members, subject to approval by at least two-thirds of the existing member nations. Currently, the UPU comprises 192 member countries.

Structure

The UPU consists of four main bodies:

1.       The Congress: The highest authority of the UPU, convening every four years.

2.       The Council of Administration: Responsible for ensuring the continuity of UPU operations between Congresses and supervising activities related to regulatory, administrative, legislative, and legal matters.

3.       The Postal Operations Council: Acts as the technical and operational hub of the UPU, composed of 48 member countries elected during Congress.

4.       The International Bureau: Functions as the secretariat, providing logistical and technical support to the other UPU bodies.

The headquarters of the Universal Postal Union is located in Bern, Switzerland.

In News:

The Gujarat government has recently announced plans to establish a Caracal Breeding and Conservation Center in the Chadva Rakhal area of Kutch, with a budget of ?10 crore.

About the Caracal

• The caracal, known locally as "siya gosh" (meaning "black ear" in Persian), is a reclusive and primarily nocturnal feline celebrated for its agility and remarkable skill in catching birds mid-flight.
• In terms of nesting, caracals typically utilize abandoned porcupine burrows or rock crevices for denning and are often found with their young hidden among dense vegetation. They tend to live in small groups, and their elusive behavior makes them hard to spot in the wild.

Habitat and Distribution

Caracals inhabit various environments, including woodlands, savannahs, and scrub forests. In India, suitable habitats are found in regions such as Kutch, the Malwa Plateau, the Aravalli hills, and Bundelkhand. This species is also present in numerous countries across Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia.

Threats to Survival

The caracal faces significant threats from extensive hunting, illegal wildlife trade, and the destruction of its natural habitats.

Conservation Status

According to the IUCN, the caracal is classified as "Least Concern." In India, it is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintained its benchmark interest rate at 6.5% for the 10th consecutive monetary policy review since April 2023. The policy stance was shifted to “neutral,” indicating potential for a future rate cut.

Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Overview

• The decision to keep interest rates unchanged was supported by a majority of five out of six members of the MPC, which convened for three days starting October 7.
• The change in policy stance from “withdrawal of accommodation” to “neutral” was unanimously agreed upon.

Focus Areas

• The MPC emphasized the need for a durable alignment of inflation with targets while supporting economic growth.
• Macroeconomic parameters for inflation and growth were described as well balanced.

Inflation Insights

• A moderation in headline inflation is expected to reverse in September, likely remaining elevated due to adverse base effects.
• Retail inflation was below the central bank’s median target of 4% in July and August.

Growth Projections

• The RBI maintained its 7.2% GDP growth projection and a 4.5% average inflation estimate for 2024-25, with risks evenly balanced.
• Second-quarter inflation projection was revised down to 4.1% from 4.4%, while a rise to 4.8% is expected for the October to December quarter.

Domestic Growth and Investment

• Domestic growth remains robust, with private consumption and investment growing together.
• This growth has provided the RBI with the capacity to prioritize inflation control to achieve the 4% target.

Risks to Inflation

The Governor highlighted that unexpected weather events and escalating geopolitical conflicts pose significant upside risks to inflation.

In News:

The Union Cabinet has approved the development of NMHC in Lothal, Gujarat, under the Sagarmala programme.

• Purpose and Vision  Aimed at showcasing India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage using an edutainment approach with modern technology.

Employment Generation

•  Expected to create approximately 22,000 jobs: 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect.

Project Phases

• Phase 1A
• Features a museum with 6 galleries, including:
• A large Indian Navy & Coast Guard gallery with external naval artifacts.
•  Replica of Lothal township surrounded by an open aquatic gallery.
•  A jetty walkway.
• Phase 1B
• Expansion includes:
• 8 additional galleries.
•  The world's tallest Light House Museum.
•  Bagicha complex with facilities for 1,500 cars, a food hall, and a medical center.
• Phase 2
• Development of Coastal States Pavilions by respective states and union territories.
• Hospitality zone featuring maritime-themed eco-resorts and museuotels.
• Recreation of ancient Lothal City and establishment of a Maritime Institute with hostel.
• Creation of four theme-based parks:
• Maritime & Naval Theme Park
• Climate Change Theme Park
• Monuments Park
• Adventure & Amusement Park

Governance and Management

• Governing Council
• Chaired by the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, overseeing project implementation and operation.
• Separate Society
• A dedicated society will manage future phases, governed under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.

Benefits and Funding

• Beneficiaries
• Local communities, tourists, researchers, government bodies, educational institutions, cultural organizations, conservation groups, and businesses.
• Funding
• Construction of the Light House Museum in Phase 1B will be financed by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).

Sagarmala Programme

• Objective
• A flagship initiative aiming to transform India’s maritime sector by enhancing logistics performance and fostering port-led development and coastal community upliftment.
•  Background
• Approved in March 2015, the programme focuses on utilizing India’s extensive coastline and waterways for economic growth.

Recent Initiatives:

• The Indian government has launched a nationwide survey of kutcha houses.
• Introduction of the Awas Sakhi mobile app to streamline housing assistance.

Purpose of the Kutcha House Survey

• Identify Housing Needs: The survey aims to collect data on families living in kutcha (temporary) houses, enabling targeted support for those in need.
• Support for Awas Sakhi App: The survey will enhance the functionality of the Awas Sakhi app, facilitating the application process and providing beneficiaries with vital housing information.

Overview of PMAY-G

• Launch: Initiated in 2016, PMAY-G aims to provide secure housing for the poorest communities.
• Beneficiary Selection Process: A comprehensive three-stage validation, including the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, Gram Sabha approvals, and geo-tagging, ensures that aid reaches those most deserving.

Benefits for PMAY-G Beneficiaries

• Financial Assistance:
  • ?1.20 lakh for families in plain areas.
  • ?1.30 lakh for families in hilly regions, including northeastern states and union territories.
• Support for Sanitation:
  • An additional ?12,000 for toilet construction, aligned with the Swachh Bharat Mission – Gramin or MGNREGS.
• Employment Opportunities:
  • Provision of 90/95 days of unskilled wage employment through MGNREGA for house construction.
• Access to Basic Amenities:
  • Connections for water, LPG, and electricity facilitated through relevant schemes.
• Cost Sharing Structure:
  • Expenses are shared in a 60:40 ratio for plain areas and a 90:10 ratio for northeastern states and selected Himalayan states. The Centre covers 100% of costs for other Union Territories.

Progress Under PMAY-G

• Targets: The government aims to construct 2.95 crore houses.
• Current Status: As of August 2024, 2.94 crore houses have been sanctioned, with 2.64 crore completed, enhancing living conditions for millions in rural areas.

Recent Developments

• In August 2024, the Union Cabinet approved funding for two crore additional houses at existing assistance rates.
• Eligibility Criteria Changes:
  • Individuals owning bikes or scooters are now eligible.
  • The income limit for eligibility has been raised from ?10,000 to ?15,000 per month.

Future Goals

• This initiative, spanning FY 2024-2029, aims to address ongoing housing demands, benefiting approximately 10 crore individuals by providing safe, hygienic, and socially inclusive housing.

In News:

U.S. Scientists David Baker and John Jumper and Britain’s Demis Hassabis won the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, for their work on understanding the protein structures.

Prize Distribution

• David Baker: Awarded half of the Prize for pioneering work in computational protein design.
• Demis Hassabis and John Jumper: Jointly awarded the other half for their revolutionary contributions to protein structure prediction using artificial intelligence.

Significance of Achievements

• The advancements in protein science represent a major milestone for healthcare and biotechnology.
• These innovations have unlocked new possibilities for designing proteins, potentially leading to breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and more.

David Baker's Innovations

• Baker has achieved the significant feat of creating entirely new types of proteins, enhancing our understanding of protein functionality.
• In 2003, he designed a novel protein using amino acids and custom software methods, which opened avenues for rapid protein creation.
• Applications include pharmaceuticals, vaccines, nanomaterials, and tiny sensors.

AI Contributions by Hassabis and Jumper

• Demis Hassabis and John Jumper employed advanced artificial intelligence to address the challenge of predicting complex protein structures.
• In 2020, they introduced the AI model AlphaFold2, which can predict the structure of nearly all identified proteins (approximately 200 million).

Notable Facts about the Nobel Prize in Chemistry

• The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded 116 times to 197 laureates from 1901 to 2024.
• Frederick Sanger and Barry Sharpless are the only recipients to have won the Prize twice.
• The inaugural Prize was awarded in 1901 to Jacobus H. van ‘t Hoff for his work on chemical dynamics and osmotic pressure.
• Marie Curie became the first woman to win the Prize in 1911 for her discovery of radium and polonium.
• Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, a citizen of Indian origin, received the Prize in 2009 for his research on ribosomes.

In News:

John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton won the 2024 Nobel Prize for physics “for foundational discoveries and inventions that enable machine learning with artificial neural networks”. Their work lies at the roots of a large tree of work, the newest branches of which we see today as artificially intelligent (AI) apps like ChatGPT.

Significance of ANNs

• Definition: ANNs are collections of interconnected nodes that mimic the networks of neurons in animal brains, enabling machines to process data, recognize patterns, and learn.
• Applications: Integral to AI applications such as facial recognition, language translation, and numerous fields including physics, chemistry, and medicine.

Historical Context

• Hopfield Network:
  • Developed by John Hopfield in 1983.
  • Based on Donald Hebb's neuropsychological theory of learning, emphasizing how connections between neurons strengthen through repeated interactions.
  • Capable of storing and reconstructing images by adjusting node connections to achieve a low-energy state, effectively denoising input.
• Boltzmann Machine:
  • Geoffrey Hinton's work on deep-learning machines, building on Ludwig Boltzmann's statistical mechanics.
  • Introduced the concept of generative AI through networks that differentiate between probable outcomes.
  • Developed Restricted Boltzmann Machines (RBMs) in the 2000s, enhancing learning efficiency through layered networks.

Evolution and Current State of ANNs

• Technological Progress: ANNs have evolved significantly, transitioning from individual computers to distributed networks like the cloud.
• Current Variants: Innovations include transformers, backpropagation, and long short-term memory techniques, making ANNs more capable and widely accessible.

Concerns and Risks

• Ethical Considerations: Rapid advancements in AI raise concerns about safety, misinformation, and job displacement.
• Expert Opinions: Both Hopfield and Hinton have expressed worries about the implications of AI systems surpassing human intelligence and the potential for misuse.

In News:

The World Health Organization (WHO) has now recognised that India has successfully eliminated trachoma, a bacterial infection that affects the eyes, as a public health problem.

WHO Declaration:

• India has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem (2024).
• Third country in the South-East Asia Region to achieve this milestone.

Trachoma Overview:

• Bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis.
• Contagious; spreads through contact with infected secretions.
• Can lead to irreversible blindness if untreated.
• Considered a neglected tropical disease.

Global Impact:

• WHO estimates 150 million affected worldwide; 6 million at risk of blindness.
• Most prevalent in underprivileged communities with poor living conditions.

Historical Context in India:

• Leading cause of blindness in the 1950s-60s.
• National Trachoma Control Program launched in 1963.
• Control efforts integrated into the National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB).

Statistics:

• Blindness due to Trachoma was 5% in 1971; now reduced to less than 1%.
• Implementation of the WHO SAFE strategy (Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial hygiene, Environmental cleanliness).

Milestones:

• India declared free from infective Trachoma in 2017.
• Continued surveillance for cases from 2019 to 2024.

National Trachomatous Trichiasis (TT) Survey:

• Conducted in 200 endemic districts (2021-2024) under NPCBVI.
• Mandated by WHO to confirm elimination status.

In News:

The MACE Observatory was recently inaugurated by the Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission in Hanle, Ladakh.

About MACE Observatory

• Name: Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory.
• Significance:
  • Largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia.
  • Highest imaging Cherenkov observatory in the world.
• Location: Situated at approximately 4,300 meters altitude in Hanle, Ladakh.
• Indigenous Development:
  • Built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
  • Supported by the Electronics Corporation of India (ECIL), Hyderabad, and other Indian industry partners.

Scientific Contributions

• Research Focus:
  • Enhances understanding in astrophysics, fundamental physics, and particle acceleration mechanisms.
  • Observes high-energy gamma rays to investigate cosmic phenomena like supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.
• Global Impact:
  • Aims to foster international collaborations in space research.
  • Strengthens India’s position in the global scientific community.

Socio-Economic Role

• Local Impact: Contributes to the socio-economic development of Ladakh, promoting scientific awareness and opportunities.

Understanding Cherenkov Radiation

• Definition: A blue glow emitted when charged particles (e.g., electrons and protons) travel faster than light in a specific medium.
• Historical Note: Named after Pavel Cherenkov, who, along with Ilya Frank and Igor Tamm, received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1958 for his work in demonstrating and explaining this phenomenon.

In News:

The United Kingdom said it would cede sovereignty of the strategically important Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it a “historic political agreement”. The UK has long controlled Chagos and the Diego Garcia military base located there, jointly operating it with the United States.

Background of the Chagos Archipelago

Historical Context

• The Chagos archipelago consists of 58 islands located about 500 km south of the Maldives.
• Initially uninhabited, the islands were populated in the late 18th century through the importation of slave labor.
• The islands were ceded to Britain from France in 1814, and in 1965, the UK established the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which includes Chagos.

Controversy Over Sovereignty

• Mauritius, a former British colony, claims that the detachment of Chagos from its territory during its independence in 1968 was illegal.
• The UK compensated Mauritius with a grant but retained control, establishing a military base on Diego Garcia.

Strategic Importance of Diego Garcia

Military Significance

• Diego Garcia has been a crucial U.S. military base since its operational status began in 1986.
• It played a key role in U.S. military operations during conflicts in the Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
• The base enables rapid response to crises and supports regional security, especially in light of U.S. interests in monitoring key trade routes like the Malacca Strait.

Geopolitical Implications

• The presence of the U.S. military in the Indian Ocean is vital for countering security threats, particularly regarding China's growing influence.

Recent Developments: The UK-Mauritius Agreement

Key Features of the Treaty

• On October 3, 2023, the UK agreed to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, marking a significant political shift.
• The treaty allows Mauritius to resettle Chagossians (excluding Diego Garcia) and establishes a trust fund for their benefit.
• Despite this, the UK retains control over Diego Garcia for an initial period of 99 years.

Implications of the Agreement

• The resolution of the sovereignty issue may strengthen Western commitments to a stable and free Indo-Pacific region.
• If unresolved, tensions could push Mauritius toward seeking alliances with alternative powers like China.

India’s Position and Interests

Support for Mauritius

• India has historically supported Mauritius in its claims over Chagos, reflecting its stance against colonial legacies.
• In 2019, India voted in favor of Mauritius at the UN General Assembly regarding the Chagos dispute.

Strategic Partnerships

• With increasing Chinese assertiveness in the Indian Ocean, India has been strengthening its ties with Mauritius.
• Recent initiatives include the inauguration of an India-built airstrip and jetty in Agaléga, enhancing connectivity and support for Mauritius.

Conclusion

The UK-Mauritius treaty over the Chagos Archipelago marks a significant turning point in colonial legacies and geopolitical alliances in the Indian Ocean. For India, supporting Mauritius aligns with its broader strategic interests and enhances its influence in a region marked by competing global powers. As the dynamics evolve, India's role in fostering regional stability and partnerships will be crucial.

In News:

India Participates in 44th Session of Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

Key Contributions:

• Nutrient Reference Values:
  • Advocated for reference values for ages 6 to 36 months.
  • Suggested combining NRV-R values by averaging those for 6-12 months and 12-36 months.
  • This proposal was accepted by the committee.
• Probiotic Guidelines:
  • Emphasized the need to update FAO/WHO probiotic guidelines, which are two decades old.
  • Highlighted the lack of international harmonization in probiotic regulations affecting global trade.
  • Committee agreed to revisit guidelines and requested FAO and WHO to conduct a literature review on probiotics.
• Discussion on Sweetness Assessment:
  • Disagreed with the EU’s sensory testing proposal for carbohydrate sources in Follow-up Formula, citing lack of scientific validation.
  • Supported by USA, Canada, and others; this led to the committee discontinuing the topic for now.
  • Noted that ISO 5495 or other methods could be used in the absence of harmonized methods.
• Delegation:
  • Included representatives from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Ministry of Women and Child Development.
  • Advocated for various food safety, consumer health, and trade-related issues.
• Outcome:
  • India’s suggestions were officially incorporated into the final report, significantly influencing global food safety and nutrition standards.
• Additional Announcements:
  • FAO/WHO plans for a Joint Statement on Healthy Diet Principles.
  • Updates on reviewing benefits and risks of Alternative Animal Source Foods (A-ASFs).
  • FAO introduced a new “Food and Diet” domain on its FAOSTAT database.

In News:

• Definition:
  • Marburg virus is one of the deadliest pathogens known to infect humans, causing severe hemorrhagic fever.
• Current Situation in Rwanda:
  • Rwanda reported its first Marburg case late last month.
  • At least 46 individuals have been infected, with 12 reported deaths.
  • Approximately 80% of infections are among medical workers.
  • The outbreak poses a significant threat to Rwanda’s fragile healthcare system, which has only 1,500 doctors for over 13 million people.

Characteristics of Marburg Virus

• Deadliness:
  • Marburg virus disease (MVD) has case fatality rates ranging from 24% to 88%, depending on the strain and case management.
  • The first outbreak occurred in Marburg, Germany, in 1967, with subsequent outbreaks primarily in Africa.
• Family:
  • Marburg belongs to the filovirus family, which includes Ebola.
  • Both viruses are clinically similar and can cause high-fatality outbreaks.

Transmission

• Initial Infection:
  • Human infections initially occurred through prolonged exposure to mines or caves inhabited by Rousettus bats (notably the Egyptian fruit bat).
• Human-to-Human Transmission:
  • MVD spreads directly through contact with blood and bodily fluids of infected individuals.
  • Indirect transmission can occur via contaminated surfaces and materials (bedding, clothing).
• Risk for Medical Workers:
  • Medical workers treating MVD cases are frequently infected, especially when infection control measures are inadequate.

Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD)

• Incubation Period: Symptoms can appear 2 to 21 days after infection.
• Initial Symptoms: High fever, Severe headache, Muscle ache, Watery diarrhea, Abdominal pain and cramping, Vomiting
• Hemorrhagic Symptoms:
  • Many patients develop bleeding from various sites, including the digestive system (fresh blood in feces and vomit), nose, gums, and vagina.
  • Fatalities often occur due to severe blood loss and shock, typically 8 to 9 days after symptom onset.

Prevention and Treatment

• Current Status:
  • No approved vaccines or specific treatments exist for MVD.
• Supportive Care:
  • Rehydration (oral or intravenous fluids) and symptom management improve survival rates.
• Experimental Treatments:
  • Rwanda is seeking experimental vaccines and treatments to address the outbreak.
  • The US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute provided 700 doses of an experimental Marburg vaccine for healthcare professionals on the frontlines.

In News:

The International Agency for Research on Cancer’s estimates of the burden of 36 cancers in 185 countries suggest one in five individuals has a lifetime risk of developing cancer.

• Impact of CRISPR on Cancer Research:
  • CRISPR screens have revolutionized the study of BRCA genes through high-throughput functional genetic analysis.
  • Researchers use CRISPR-Cas9 to create specific mutations in BRCA genes, studying their effects on DNA repair and cancer development.
• Cancer Statistics:
  • One in five individuals has a lifetime risk of developing cancer (International Agency for Research on Cancer).
  • In 2022, there were approximately 20 million new cancer cases and 9.74 million cancer-related deaths; projections suggest these could rise to 32 million new cases and 16 million deaths by 2045, with Asia potentially accounting for half of the cases.
• Genetic Mutations and Inheritance:
  • All cancers stem from genetic mutations; about 10% of cancer cases may involve inherited mutations.
  • Specific inherited mutation prevalence:
    • 20% in ovarian cancer patients.
    • 10% in breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers.
    • 6% in cervical cancer.
• BRCA Genes Overview:
  • The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, discovered in 1994 and 1995, are crucial for understanding hereditary cancer syndromes.
  • Mutations in BRCA genes significantly increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers.
  • BRCA mutations are estimated to occur in 1 in 400 individuals, with higher prevalence (1 in 40) among Ashkenazi Jews due to genetic bottlenecks and founder effects.
• Importance of Genetic Testing:
  • Testing for BRCA mutations helps identify individuals at higher risk, enabling personalized prevention strategies such as increased surveillance or preventive surgery.
  • The American Society of Clinical Oncology recommends testing for 15 genes related to breast and ovarian cancer risk.
• Targeted Therapies:
  • PARP inhibitors represent a new class of chemotherapy drugs effective for cancers with BRCA mutations.
  • Clinical trials show promising results, especially when combined with platinum-based chemotherapy.
• Advancements in Understanding Cancer Genes:
  • CRISPR technology has improved our understanding of cancer-related genes, enabling researchers to study the effects of specific mutations.
  • Studies have identified how different mutations influence responses to therapies like PARP inhibitors.
• Recent Research Findings:
  • Research from the Wellcome Sanger Institute identified over 3,000 genetic changes in the RAD51C gene that could significantly increase breast and ovarian cancer risk.
  • Variants disrupting RAD51C function can increase ovarian cancer risk six-fold and aggressive breast cancer risk four-fold.
• Risk Spectrum:
  • Genetic risk is a spectrum based on how mutations affect protein function.
  • Large-scale variant analysis is vital for personalized medicine and cancer prevention.
• Role of Population Studies:
  • Population prevalence studies help identify hereditary cancer risks and inform genetic screening for at-risk individuals.
  • Early cancer detection allows for better healthcare decisions and potential preventive therapies.
• Goals for Cancer Management:
  • The ultimate aim is to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality, leading to healthier lives for individuals and families.

Overview

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA and its crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. This award highlights their individual contributions to understanding how microRNAs influence gene expression, significantly advancing the field of molecular biology.

What are MicroRNAs?

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules typically 19-24 nucleotides long. They regulate protein production by interacting with messenger RNA (mRNA), ultimately influencing how much protein is synthesized from genetic information.

The Process of Gene Regulation

Gene expression involves two primary steps:

1. Transcription: DNA is copied into mRNA in the nucleus.
2. Translation: mRNA is translated into proteins by ribosomes with the help of transfer RNA (tRNA).

MicroRNAs play a critical role in regulating this process, particularly after transcription, by silencing mRNA and thereby controlling protein production.

Pioneering Research

Background

In the late 1980s, Ambros and Ruvkun utilized the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, a small roundworm, to explore developmental processes. They focused on mutant strains, lin-4 and lin-14, which displayed abnormal development.

Key Discoveries

• Victor Ambros: Ambros cloned the lin-4 gene and discovered that it produced a short RNA molecule that did not code for proteins. This finding suggested that lin-4 could inhibit lin-14’s activity.
• Gary Ruvkun: Ruvkun investigated the regulation of the lin-14 gene and determined that lin-4 did not prevent the production of lin-14 mRNA. Instead, it inhibited protein production later in the gene expression process. He identified crucial segments in lin-14 mRNA essential for its inhibition by lin-4.

Collaborative Findings

Their subsequent experiments demonstrated that lin-4 microRNA binds to lin-14 mRNA, effectively blocking the production of lin-14 protein. Their findings were published in 1993 and laid the foundation for the understanding of microRNA.

Impact and Recognition

Initially, the significance of their discoveries was not widely recognized, as it was thought that microRNA regulation was specific to C. elegans. However, Ruvkun’s later identification of the let-7 gene, a microRNA found in various animal species, broadened the understanding of microRNAs' universal role in gene regulation.

Current Understanding

Today, it is known that humans possess over a thousand genes that code for different microRNAs. These molecules are crucial in regulating gene expression across multicellular organisms.

Applications and Future Directions

MicroRNAs can fine-tune gene expression, influencing various cellular functions despite similar genetic backgrounds. Abnormal microRNA regulation has been linked to diseases such as cancer and genetic disorders. While the Nobel Committee acknowledged that practical applications of miRNA research are still developing, understanding these molecules is vital for future research and therapeutic advancements.

In News:

A team of history and archaeology scholars and students from the University of Mysore have embarked on an excavation of megalithic burial sites in Chamarajanagar district.

• Location: Doddalathur village, Hanur taluk, Chamarajanagar district, situated in a valley by the Male Mahadeshwara Hill ranges.
• Team: A group of history and archaeology scholars and students from the University of Mysore, in collaboration with the Mythic Society, Bengaluru.
• Excavation Focus: Exploration of megalithic burial sites corresponding to the Iron Age (approximately 1200 BC to 300 CE).
• Site Features:
  • Burials consist of circles made of large boulders, referred to as "megalithic."
  • A small hillock is located to the west of the village.
• Historical Significance:
  • The site was discovered by C. Krishnamurti of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1961.
  • Originally contained over 1,000 burials, many of which have been lost due to agricultural expansion and development.
  • Despite disturbances, many burials remain intact and are considered suitable for excavation.
• Goals of the Project:
  • To enhance understanding of megalithic-Iron Age culture in southern Karnataka's hilly regions.
  • To provide practical field training for archaeology students.

In News:

Maritime Exercise Malabar 2024, Commencing at Visakhapatnam on 08 Oct Hosted by India, USA, Australia and Japan in Participation.

Background

• Origins: Initiated in 1992 as a bilateral naval drill between the United States and Indian Navy.
• Evolution: Has grown into a key multilateral exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and addressing maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.

Participating Naval Assets

• India: Various platforms, including:
  • Guided missile destroyers
  • Multi-purpose frigates
  • Submarines
  • Fixed-wing maritime reconnaissance aircraft
  • Fighter aircraft and helicopters
• Australia:
  • HMAS Stuart (Anzac Class Frigate)
  • MH-60R helicopter
  • P-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft
• United States:
  • USS Dewey (Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer)
  • Integral helicopter
  • P-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft
• Japan:
  • JS Ariake (Murasame-class Destroyer)

Focus Areas of the Exercise

• Operational Enhancements:
  • Discussions on special operations
  • Surface, air, and anti-submarine warfare
  • Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE)
• Maritime Operations:
  • Anti-submarine warfare
  • Surface warfare
  • Air defense exercises
• Emphasis: Improving situational awareness in the maritime domain.

Special Events

• Distinguished Visitors’ Day: Scheduled for October 9, 2024.
  • Hosted by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.
• Joint Press Conference: Co-chaired by heads of delegations from all participating nations during the Harbour Phase.

Significance

• Comprehensive Exercise: Malabar 2024 is expected to be the most detailed edition to date, featuring complex operational scenarios and enhanced cooperation among the naval forces of the participating countries.GS Paper

In News:

• DefConnect 4.0 was inaugurated by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 7, 2024, at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment.
• Organizer: Hosted by Innovations for Defence Excellence - Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO) under the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence.

Purpose and Focus

• Advancing Indigenous Innovation: Aims to enhance India’s defense ecosystem by promoting self-reliant defense technologies.
• Participants: Involves Armed Forces, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), start-ups, MSMEs, academia, incubators, investors, and policymakers.

Technology Showcase

• Exhibitions: iDEX innovators showcased cutting-edge technologies, products, and capabilities.
• Collaboration and Dialogue: Encourages partnerships and discussions to drive defense innovation and long-term collaborations.

Special Sessions

• Budget Insights: Focused on key takeaways from recent budget announcements impacting the defense innovation ecosystem.
• Semiconductor Domain: Highlighted initiatives and opportunities within the semiconductor sector.

Path Forward: Vision for 2047

• Viksit Bharat Goal: Aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global leader in defense innovation by 2047.
• Government Initiatives: Supports local talent and indigenous solutions through programs like iDEX.

iDEX Impact

• Defence India Start-up Challenges: 11 editions launched, garnering over 9,000 applications.
• Collaborations: Engages with over 450 start-ups/MSMEs on significant defense projects.
• Contribution to Self-Reliance: Supports the goal of achieving self-reliance in the defense and aerospace sectors.

In News:

Nepal, India, and Bangladesh have signed a tripartite agreement to facilitate cross-border electricity trade, enabling Nepal to export surplus electricity to Bangladesh via India.

Key Details of the Agreement

• Export Period: The agreement allows for electricity exports from June 15 to November 15 each year.
• Initial Export Volume: In the first phase, Nepal will export 40 MW of hydroelectricity to Bangladesh through Indian territory.
• Electricity Rate: The fixed rate per unit of electricity is set at 6.4 cents.
• Projected Revenue: Nepal is expected to earn approximately $9.2 million annually from this trade.

This agreement aims to enhance regional cooperation in energy trade and support sustainable development in the participating countries.

In News:

Overview of Typhoons

• Definition: A typhoon is a type of cyclone with wind speeds of 119 km/h or more, forming over warm ocean waters near the equator.
• Mechanism: As warm, moist air rises from the ocean, it creates a low-pressure system, leading to the characteristic circular wind patterns: anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

Recent Typhoon Events

• Typhoon Yagi: The most powerful tropical cyclone in Asia in 2024, with peak winds of 260 km/h. It caused significant destruction across Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, displacing around 631,000 people and resulting in over 500 fatalities.
• Typhoon Bebinca: Reached wind speeds of 151 km/h, classified as a Category 1 storm, impacting eastern China with heavy rainfall and forcing evacuations for over 414,000 residents.
• Typhoon Shanshan: Affected Japan, bringing severe weather conditions.

Why are Typhoons more frequent?

1. Rising Sea Surface Temperatures:
   • Global warming has raised ocean temperatures, providing more energy for typhoon formation and intensification.
2. Atmospheric Circulation Changes:
   • Alterations in patterns, such as the weakening of the Walker Circulation, affect the frequency and paths of typhoons.
3. El Niño and La Niña Effects:
   • The El Niño-Southern Oscillation significantly influences typhoon activity. El Niño years often lead to increased typhoon occurrences in Southeast Asia, while La Niña can enhance cyclone activity in the Western Pacific.
4. Increased Atmospheric Moisture:
   • Higher global temperatures result in more evaporation, adding moisture to the atmosphere, which fuels stronger storms and increases rainfall intensity.
5. Geographical Vulnerability:
   • Southeast Asia’s location near warm ocean currents makes it a hotspot for typhoon activity, particularly along its extensive coastlines.
6. Marine Heat Waves:
   • Climate change has led to more frequent marine heat waves, causing extreme ocean warming, which contributes to intensified storms.
7. Weaker Land-Sea Temperature Gradients:
   • Changes in temperature differences between land and sea can prolong storm duration and severity.
8. Urbanization and Environmental Degradation:
   • Rapid urban development and the destruction of coastal ecosystems, like mangroves, diminish natural barriers against storm impacts.

Humanitarian Impact and Response

• The increasing intensity and frequency of typhoons have precipitated severe humanitarian crises in affected regions. The need for international cooperation in disaster response has become critical, involving collaboration among governments, civil societies, and humanitarian organizations to provide aid and support for those affected.
• Understanding the multifaceted reasons behind the rising frequency of typhoons is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their impacts and enhance community resilience in Southeast Asia.

In News:

In an important move to improve global access to Mpox testing, the World Health Organization (WHO) has listed the first Mpox in vitro diagnostic under its Emergency Use Listing procedure.

• Context of Mpox Outbreak:

• Since January 2022, mpox has spread to 121 countries.
• By September 2024, there were 103,048 confirmed cases and 229 deaths.

• Diagnostic Test Approval:

• WHO approved Abbott Laboratories’ PCR diagnostic test, Alinity MPXV assay, for emergency use.
• This test detects mpox virus DNA from skin swabs, intended for trained lab personnel.

• Emergency Use Listing (EUL) Procedure:

• Allows WHO to expedite approval of unlicensed vaccines, treatments, and diagnostic tests during public health emergencies.
• In August, WHO called for manufacturers to submit diagnostic tools to aid low-income countries.

• Current Testing Landscape:

• Limited testing capacity has hindered response, especially in Africa, where over 30,000 suspected cases were reported in 2024.
• 35 laboratories in India are now equipped to test suspected mpox cases.

• Importance of Early Diagnosis:

• Early detection facilitates timely treatment and control of the virus, essential in outbreak areas.

• Characteristics of the Alinity MPXV Assay:

• Utilizes real-time PCR to detect mpox virus (clade I/II) DNA from lesion materials.
• Designed for skilled laboratory personnel familiar with PCR techniques.

• Ongoing Efforts:

• WHO is reviewing three additional mpox diagnostic tests and negotiating with more companies to enhance availability.
• Efforts include addressing the spread of a new variant, clade Ib, which is affecting more women and children.

• Public Health Implications:

• Expanding access to diagnostics is vital for managing the mpox outbreak and protecting populations, particularly in underserved regions.
• WHO emphasizes the importance of quality-assured medical products in containing the virus spread.

In News:

A team of marine biologists led by a Florida International University researcher has described a new species of the shark genus Sphyrna from the Caribbean and the Southwest Atlantic.

• New Species: Named Sphyrna alleni (common name: shovelbill shark).
• Habitat: Found in coastal waters, estuaries, coral reefs, and seagrass beds from Belize to Brazil, with confirmed presence in:
  • Caribbean: Belize, Panama, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Southwestern Atlantic: Brazil.
• Characteristics:
  • Small species, less than 1.5 m in length.
  • Distinctive flat, shovel-shaped head lacking indentations on the anterior edge.
  • Different from Sphyrna tiburo:
    • More rounded anterior margin.
    • Absence of lobules on the posterior margin.
    • Higher precaudal vertebral count (80-83 vs. ~73 in Sphyrna tiburo).
• Evolutionary Insight: Possible sister lineage to Sphyrna vespertina, suggesting Sphyrna tiburo diverged later.
• Conservation Status:
  • Hammerhead sharks are highly threatened, primarily due to overfishing.
  • Most species, except Sphyrna gilberti, are listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
  • Current IUCN assessment of Sphyrna tiburo as Globally Endangered may need reevaluation considering the new findings.
• Management Recommendations:
  • Increased management efforts needed for Sphyrna alleni, particularly restrictions on gillnets and trawls, which significantly impact this species.
• Publication: Findings reported in the journal Zootaxa.

In News:

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad on October 15-16, 2023.
• This marks the first visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to Pakistan since Sushma Swaraj in 2015.

Context of the Visit:

• The visit is primarily for the SCO meeting, reflecting India's focus on regional cooperation mechanisms.
• No bilateral meetings have been scheduled as of now, although Jaishankar's presence is based on "reciprocity" following Pakistan's participation in an earlier SCO meeting in India.

SCO Overview:

• Established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai; evolved from the "Shanghai Five" formed in 1996.
• Original members included China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and later Uzbekistan.
• Current members: India, Pakistan, Iran, and others, with Afghanistan and Mongolia holding Observer Status.

Significance of the SCO:

• Focuses on security cooperation, primarily among Asian nations.
• Seen as an alternative to Western international frameworks, especially with heavyweights like Russia and China positioning against US influence.
• India's inclusion alongside Pakistan in 2017 reflects the geopolitical jostling between Russia and China.

Geopolitical Dynamics:

• While SCO promotes cooperation, underlying tensions remain, particularly between India and Pakistan, and India and China.
• The organization has limited tangible outcomes due to member states' rivalries and differing interests.

India's Objectives in SCO:

• Provides a platform for enhancing relations with Central Asian countries, addressing common security concerns.
• Involves participation in the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) to combat terrorism and drug trafficking.

India-Pakistan Relations:

• Jaishankar's visit is seen in light of ongoing tensions; India shares difficult relations with both China and Pakistan.
• India canceled a summit under its presidency last year, opting for a virtual format instead.

Implications for Regional Politics:

• The visit comes shortly after the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, with potential implications for India-Pakistan ties.
• Despite attending the SCO meeting, there is little expectation of progress in the India-Pakistan peace process.
• Recent statements from the Indian government criticize Pakistan for hosting wanted individuals, reflecting ongoing diplomatic tensions.

Strategic Importance:

• Participation in SCO allows India to engage with key regional players, including Russia, China, and Central Asian leaders.
• The meeting serves as preparation for India's participation in upcoming BRICS discussions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these groupings.

In News:

The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Global Strategic Preparedness, Readiness and Response Plan (SPRP) to tackle dengue and other Aedes-borne arboviruses.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose:
  • Tackle dengue and other Aedes-borne arboviruses (e.g., Zika, chikungunya).
  • Reduce disease burden, suffering, and deaths globally.
• Background:
  • Rapid geographical spread of dengue due to:
    • Unplanned urbanization.
    • Poor water, sanitation, and hygiene practices.
    • Climate change.
    • Increased international travel.
  • An estimated 4 billion people at risk, projected to increase to 5 billion by 2050.
  • Significant increase in dengue cases; 12.3 million reported by August 2023, nearly double the total from 2022.
• Global Impact:
  • Dengue endemic in over 130 countries, particularly affecting:
    • South-East Asia.
    • Western Pacific.
    • Americas.
    • Africa facing compounded health crises due to conflicts and disasters.
• Emergency Grade: WHO has graded the global dengue situation as grade 3, the highest emergency level.
• Key Components of SPRP:
  • Emergency Coordination: Leadership and coordination activities for outbreak response.
  • Collaborative Surveillance: Tools for early detection and control, including strengthened surveillance and epidemiological analysis.
  • Community Protection: Engaging communities in local prevention and response measures.
  • Safe and Scalable Care: Ensuring resilient health services for adequate patient care.
  • Access to Countermeasures: Promoting research for better treatments and vaccines.
• Implementation Timeline: Over one year until September 2025, requiring US$ 55 million for health preparedness and response efforts.
• Alignment with Other Initiatives:
  • Supports the Global Vector Control Response 2017-2030.
  • Linked to the Global Arbovirus Initiative (2022) targeting mosquito-borne diseases.
• Call to Action:
  • Encourages collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities.
  • Emphasizes the need for innovation and improved vector control strategies.

This plan aims to mobilize a coordinated response to the escalating threat of dengue and related diseases, emphasizing the role of all stakeholders in public health.

In News:

DRDO completed development trials of the 4th Generation miniaturised Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD).

Key Details:

• Trial Location: Conducted at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan.
• Importance: VSHORAD addresses the Indian Army's need to replace legacy Igla systems, with past efforts making little progress.
• Recent Procurement: Army acquired small volumes of Igla-S through emergency procurement.
• Production Collaboration: Two production agencies involved in Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) mode for VSHORAD missiles.
• Trial Dates: Successful tests held on October 3 and 4, 2024.

Key Performance Metrics:

• Maximum Range and Altitude: Interception against high-speed aerial targets.
• Hit-to-Kill Capability: Demonstrated success in engaging targets in various scenarios (approaching, receding, crossing).

System Overview:

• Type: Fourth generation man-portable air defence system (MANPADS).
• Developer: Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO labs and industry partners.

Capabilities:

• Designed to neutralise low altitude aerial threats at short ranges.
• Features include Dual-band IIR Seeker, miniaturised Reaction Control System, and integrated avionics.
• More portable and lightweight than existing missile systems in the Army's arsenal.

In News:

The Prime Minister of India is set to announce the 18th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme in Washim, Maharashtra. This will benefit over 9.4 crore farmers nationwide, with the government allocating more than ?20,000 crore for this initiative.

About PM-KISAN

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a Central Sector Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiative aimed at providing income support to farmers.

Key Features:

• Financial Assistance: The scheme offers ?6,000 annually to small and marginal farmer families, distributed in three equal installments.
• Eligibility: Initially targeted at families with up to 2 hectares of cultivable land, the scope was later broadened to include all farmer families, regardless of land size.
• Family Definition: The definition of a family under this scheme includes the husband, wife, and minor children.
• Identification of Beneficiaries: State governments and Union Territory administrations are responsible for identifying eligible farmer families based on the scheme's guidelines.
• Direct Transfers: The funds are directly credited to the beneficiaries' bank accounts.

Exclusion Criteria

Certain categories of individuals are not eligible for benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme, including:

• Institutional Land-holders: Those who hold land under institutional ownership.
• High-Profile Government Officials: This includes former and current holders of constitutional posts, ministers, members of legislative assemblies, mayors, and district panchayat chairpersons.
• Government Employees: Serving or retired officers and employees of central or state government ministries and departments are excluded.
• Pensioners: Retired pensioners receiving a monthly pension of ?10,000 or more, as well as those in the previously mentioned categories, are also ineligible.
• Income Tax Filers: Individuals who have paid income tax in the last assessment year.
• Registered Professionals: Professionals such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, chartered accountants, and architects who are engaged in practice and registered with professional bodies.

In News:

• The Indian government plans to align indicators of the BRAP 2024 index with the World Bank’s B-READY index to enhance business readiness rankings.
• State Involvement: States have been instructed to address gaps identified in the B-READY evaluations to improve their global rankings.
• Indicators Included: The upcoming 2024 BRAP rankings, prepared by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, will incorporate specific indicators from the B-READY index.
• Enterprise Survey Launch: An enterprise survey for the B-READY index in India is set to start in October, with support from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
• Participation Timeline: Although B-READY rankings will commence in 2024, India’s participation will begin in 2026. The initial rankings will cover 54 countries, expanding to 120 in 2025 and 180 in 2026.
• Successor to Previous Rankings: The B-READY index replaces the Ease of Doing Business rankings, which were discontinued in 2021 due to irregularities. It considers a broader range of factors in its assessments.
• Benchmark for Global Institutions: The B-READY framework will serve as a benchmark for global financial institutions and multinational companies to evaluate a country’s regulatory and policy environment.
• Historical Improvement: India improved its Ease of Doing Business ranking from 142 in 2014 to 63 in 2020.
• Technical Understanding: A team of government officials is tasked with understanding the technical aspects of the B-READY index to formulate strategies for improving India’s score.
• Lifecycle Parameters: The new index tracks ten parameters throughout a firm's lifecycle, including business entry, utility services, and labor, focusing on real-world applications rather than just legal changes.
• Recent BRAP Rankings: The BRAP 2022 rankings were recently announced, with Andhra Pradesh and Kerala achieving the top positions.

In News:

Assam has launched an innovative administrative initiative by inaugurating 21 'co-districts' as part of its Phase 1 rollout, which began on Friday and will extend into Saturday, ultimately introducing a total of 39 co-districts. This new structure replaces the previous system of 24 civil sub-divisions, aiming to bring governance closer to the citizens.

About the Co-District Initiative

• Structure: Co-districts serve as smaller administrative units within the larger district framework, each headed by an Assistant District Commissioner.
• Objective: This unique initiative, the first of its kind in India, seeks to enhance accessibility to governance and address administrative challenges faced by district administrations.
• Scope: The government plans to establish co-district offices in all 126 assembly constituencies in Assam.

Functions and Powers

The co-districts will handle a variety of important functions, including:

• Land Revenue Matters: Managing land-related issues and revenue collection.
• Development and Welfare Work: Overseeing development projects and welfare programs.
• Excise and Disaster Management: Addressing excise-related matters and coordinating disaster response efforts.
• Administrative Control: Co-districts will have authority over all departmental activities within their jurisdiction.
• Magisterial Powers: Commissioners will be empowered to issue permissions for events and manage other administrative tasks.
• Routine Administrative Tasks: Responsibilities include issuing ration cards, caste certificates, and land sale permissions.

In News:

• The sixth Commercial Dialogue took place in Washington on October 4, 2024, led by Indian Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal and U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.
• MoU Signing: A day prior, the leaders signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding and diversifying critical minerals supply chains to enhance resilience.
• Focus Areas:
  • Identification of equipment, services, policies, and best practices for the development of U.S. and Indian critical minerals, covering:
    • Exploration
    • Extraction
    • Processing and refining
    • Recycling and recovery
• Context: This agreement follows China's export restrictions on gallium and germanium, critical for the semiconductor industry, and its ban on technology related to rare earth magnets and critical materials extraction.
• Strategic Goals:
  • Promote open supply chains, technology development, and investment flows for green energy.
  • Explore collaboration with other mineral-rich countries, particularly in Africa and South America.
• Progress on Semiconductor Supply Chains:
  • Continued efforts to establish resilient semiconductor supply chains since the previous MoU.
  • Completion of a "readiness assessment" by the U.S. Semiconductor Industry Association and India Electronics Semiconductor Association.
  • Commitment to foster investments, joint ventures, and technology partnerships.
• Innovation Handshake: Success of roundtables in San Francisco and New Delhi aimed at enhancing innovation ecosystems and startup collaboration.
• Strategic Clean Energy Partnership: Discussions from the EIN Roundtable in March 2024 informed the U.S.-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership meeting.
• IPEF Supply Chain Agreement: Significant progress noted in the IPEF ministerial meeting, focusing on semiconductors, chemicals, and critical minerals, particularly batteries and healthcare products.
• Future Collaborations:
  • Focus on expanding U.S. Department of Commerce presence in India with approximately 70 Foreign Commercial Service staff.
  • Plans for a U.S. trade mission to India in March 2025 aimed at supporting U.S. SMEs owned by underserved communities.
• Domestic Solar Manufacturing Protection: India reinstated the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) order to protect local solar PV module production against cheaper imports from China.
• Economic Context:
  • The Economic Survey 2023-24 highlights China's expanding manufacturing trade surplus and its restrictive actions affecting India's access to solar equipment.
  • India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes have invested over $4.5 billion to bolster clean energy manufacturing but require additional policies to safeguard these investments.

In News:

• Shelved Census Report: The Environment Ministry has delayed the release of the elephant census report, “Status of Elephant in India 2022-23,” due to a lag in the Northeast census, with publication on hold until at least June 2025.
• Population Decline: Preliminary data from the report indicates significant drops in elephant populations across several regions:
  • Southern West Bengal: 84% decline
  • Jharkhand: 64% decline
  • Odisha: 54% decline
  • Kerala: 51% decline
• Developmental Threats: The report cites “mushrooming developmental projects,” including unregulated mining and infrastructure development, as major threats to elephant populations.
• Methodological Concerns: The Environment Ministry noted that refined counting methods could explain some discrepancies, suggesting new data may not be directly comparable to previous censuses conducted every five years since the 1990s.
• Old Counting Methods:
  • Pre-2002: Elephants were counted using the “total direct count” method, which involved simple head counts but lacked scientific rigor for larger populations.
  • 2002: Introduction of the “indirect dung count” method, where dung samples were used to estimate density based on decay rates.
  • Sample Block Counts: Modified methods involved surveying limited areas (5 sq km) to improve detection accuracy.
• Elephants vs. Tigers: In 2021, a harmonized approach for estimating elephant and tiger populations was proposed, utilizing a similar block and co-variate methodology for both species.
• Genetic Mark-Recapture: The 2022-23 elephant census employed a genetic mark-recapture model using dung samples to identify individual elephants.
• Impact of Delay: Experts argue that withholding the available data hinders conservation efforts and governance. Delays could exacerbate the plight of elephant populations, particularly in regions facing specific threats, such as mining in Odisha.

Key Findings of the Unreleased Report:

• Overall Decline: The overall elephant population has decreased by 20% since 2017, with some areas reporting reductions of up to 41%.
• Regional Impact:
  • Southern West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha have seen losses of nearly 1,700 elephants.
  • The Western Ghats region indicates an 18% decline.
• Northeast Region: The census for this area relies on extrapolated data from 2017, with approximately one-third of India's elephants located there.
• Contributing Factors: Habitat fragmentation, poaching, and human-elephant conflicts due to developmental activities are major threats.
• Conservation Recommendations: Strategies to strengthen elephant corridors, restore habitats, and enhance community involvement in conservation are vital.
• Challenges in the Northeast: Urban development, mining, and agriculture significantly threaten elephant movement and survival, underscoring the need for targeted conservation strategies.
• Conservation Status of Elephants in India:
  • Leading States: Karnataka, Assam, and Kerala have the highest elephant populations.
  • Conservation Status: Elephants are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and are protected under multiple international conventions.
• Threats to Elephants:
  • Habitat Loss: Rapid human population growth is diminishing elephant habitats.
  • Fragmentation: Habitat disruption from construction and development projects is prevalent.
  • Unlawful Killing: Human-elephant conflict often leads to retaliatory killings.
  • Poaching: Targeting of male elephants for tusks continues to threaten genetic diversity.
• Conservation Measures:
  • Financial support under various government schemes for habitat conservation and human-elephant conflict resolution.
  • Establishment of 33 Elephant Reserves across 14 states.
  • Collaborative efforts with railways and power departments to mitigate risks.
  • Regular elephant census every five years by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) for monitoring populations.

In News:

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), a Washington DC-based bipartisan U.S. federal government agency, has released a country update on India, flagging “collapsing religious freedom conditions”.

• Agency Overview:
  • The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan U.S. federal commission established under the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).
  • Its primary functions include reviewing global religious freedom violations, providing policy recommendations to U.S. leaders, and publishing annual reports.
• Current Concerns:
  • USCIRF's latest report indicates a “collapse” in religious freedom conditions in India, particularly worsening throughout 2024, especially around national elections.
• Legal and Policy Changes:
  • Strengthening of discriminatory legislation, including:
    • State-level anti-conversion and anti-terrorism laws.
    • Implementation rules for the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).
    • Passage of a State-level Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in Uttarakhand.
• Violations and Incidents:
  • Expropriation of Places of Worship:
    • Authorities have facilitated the construction of Hindu temples on former mosque sites.
    • Increased attacks on religious minorities, particularly following the consecration of the Ayodhya temple in January 2024.
  • Targeting of Religious Minorities:
    • Arrests of Christians accused of forced conversions under anti-conversion laws.
    • Anti-cow slaughter laws exploited by vigilante groups to target Muslims, Christians, and Dalits, often with little to no legal repercussions for perpetrators.
• Recommendations:
  • USCIRF urges the U.S. State Department to designate India as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to severe violations of religious freedom.

About USCIRF

• Composition: Comprised of nine commissioners appointed by the U.S. President or Congressional leaders, supported by non-partisan staff.
• Objective: To monitor and recommend actions on religious freedom violations aligned with international human rights standards.

In News:

The UNAIDS Director recently highlighted the crucial role India plays in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, asserting that without its significant contributions, achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is unlikely.

Understanding HIV/AIDS

• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which diminishes the body's ability to combat infections and diseases.
• When HIV progresses to its most severe form, it is diagnosed as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), characterized by a severely compromised immune system, leading to life-threatening infections and cancers.
• The virus is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, including blood, semen, and breast milk. While there is currently no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage HIV and prevent its progression to AIDS.

India’s Progress in Combating HIV/AIDS

• From 2010 to 2023, India has made significant strides in reducing annual new HIV infections by 44%, surpassing the global average.
• Additionally, AIDS-related deaths in India have decreased by nearly 80% during the same period, also exceeding global trends. However, challenges persist, with approximately 68,000 new infections reported in 2023, translating to around 185 daily.
• The Global AIDS Strategy emphasizes the need for 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community-led organizations, which are essential for reaching key populations but require sufficient resources and support.

About UNAIDS

UNAIDS, established in 1996, coordinates global efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and supports those affected. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it unites the efforts of 11 UN organizations and works in collaboration with various global and national partners to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

Key aspects of UNAIDS include:

• Global Mandate: To coordinate responses, support countries in prevention and treatment, and advocate for human rights and equality in access to services.
• Targets: The "90-90-90" targets aimed for 2020 sought to ensure that 90% of people living with HIV were diagnosed, 90% of those diagnosed were on treatment, and 90% of those on treatment achieved viral suppression.
• Current Strategy: The 2021-2026 Global AIDS Strategy focuses on eliminating inequalities that drive HIV and aims to ensure that 30 million people are on treatment by 2025.
• Funding and Advocacy: Funded by governments, private foundations, and corporations, UNAIDS organizes key campaigns, including World AIDS Day, to raise awareness and promote advocacy.

In News:

The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her Budget speech on July 23, was launched on October 3. The PM Internship Scheme aims to provide internship opportunities to one crore youth in the top 500 companies over the next five years.

Companies will upload their internship positions, and candidates can submit applications starting October 12.

What is the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme?

The PM Internship Scheme will enhance youth employability in India by offering them hands-on exposure to real-world business environments. The scheme represents a transformative opportunity to bridge the skills gap and drive sustainable growth in India.

A monthly stipend of ?4,500 will be provided to the interns from the central government via DBT (Direct Benefit transfer), with an additional ?500 offset provided by the company’s CSR fund.

Who is eligible for the PM internship scheme?

• Candidates aged between 21 and 24 years who are not engaged in full-time employment are eligible for the one-year internship programme.
• Internships are available to those who have passed class 10 or higher.
• Individuals from families with government jobs are excluded
• The scheme is not open to post-graduates
• A candidate who graduated from premier institutes such as IIT, IIM, or IISER, and those who have CA, or CMA qualification would not be eligible to apply for this internship.
• Anyone from a household that includes a person who earned an income of ?8 lakh or more in 2023-24, will not be eligible.

How to apply for the PM internship scheme?

• Interns can register in the portal and apply for internships. The portal, pminternship.mca.gov.in, is likely to be opened up for youngsters to enroll for consideration by companies on October 12. This window will be open till October 25 for the first batch of internships. Candidates must share and self-certify some data about their educational qualifications and residential pin codes.
• Candidates’ data will be matched with companies’ needs and locations using Artificial Intelligence tools, and a shortlist of candidates will then be generated for companies to consider.
• The portal is designed to streamline the application process and make candidate selection more transparent. Applicants can check the status of their applications in the portal once they have applied to the available posts.

What is the benefit of the scheme?

The scheme is to provide on-job training to youth and an exposure to real-life work environment. The scheme will also benefit the industry by creating a pipeline of skilled, work-ready youth who can be employed post-internship both in large as well as micro, small and medium enterprise.

In News:

Cabinet Approves National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) (2024-25 to 2030-31).

Objective:

• Achieve self-reliance in edible oil production in seven years.

Financial Outlay:

• ?10,103 crore for the mission period.

Key Goals:

• Increase primary oilseed production from 39 million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31.
• Boost domestic edible oil production to 25.45 million tonnes, meeting 72% of projected requirements.

Focus Areas:

• Enhance production of key oilseed crops: Rapeseed-Mustard, Groundnut, Soybean, Sunflower, Sesamum.
• Improve extraction efficiency from secondary sources (e.g., Cottonseed, Rice Bran).

Strategies:

• Promote high-yielding, high oil content seed varieties.
• Extend cultivation to rice fallow areas and encourage intercropping.
• Use advanced technologies like genome editing for seed development.

SATHI Portal:

• Launch of an online 5-year rolling seed plan for timely seed availability.
• Coordination with cooperatives, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and seed corporations.

Infrastructure Development:

• Establish 65 new seed hubs and 50 seed storage units.
• Develop over 600 Value Chain Clusters across 347 districts, covering over 1 million hectares annually.

Support for Farmers:

• Access to high-quality seeds, training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), and pest management advisory.

Environmental Benefits:

• Promote low water usage, improve soil health, and utilize crop fallow areas.

Background Context:

• India relies on imports for 57% of its edible oil demand.
• Previous initiatives include the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) and significant increases in Minimum Support Price (MSP) for oilseeds.
• Imposition of 20% import duty on edible oils to protect local producers.

The NMEO-Oilseeds mission aims to enhance domestic oilseed production, reduce import dependency, and improve farmers' incomes while contributing to environmental sustainability.

In News:

The Union Cabinet has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages.

Why is a language declared as Classical?

Designating a language as classical acknowledges its historical significance and its role in preserving Bharat’s rich cultural heritage. These languages have been crucial in transmitting ancient knowledge, philosophies, and values for millennia. Government recognition emphasizes their deep antiquity and literary traditions, enhancing their status and promoting efforts for their preservation and research, ensuring their relevance in the modern world.

What are the criteria for declaring a language as classical?

In 2004, the Government of India, for the first time, created a new category of languages known as Classical Languages. It set the following as criteria for the status of Classical Language:

• High antiquity of its early texts/ recorded history over a thousand years.
• A body of ancient literature/ texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generation of speakers.
• The literary tradition must be original and not borrowed from another speech community.

This criterion was revised in 2005 and 2024 based on the recommendations of Linguistic Experts Committees (LEC) under Sahitya Akademi to examine the proposed languages for the status of Classical Language. Later the criteria were revised in 2024 as follows:

• High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500- 2000 years.
• A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a heritage by generations of speakers.
• Knowledge texts, especially prose texts in addition to poetry, epigraphical and inscriptional evidence.
• The Classical Languages and literature could be distinct from its current form or could be discontinuous with later forms of its offshoots.

The 2024 Linguistic Expert Committee also recommended the following languages to be fulfilling revised criteria to be considered as a Classical Language: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali

How many languages have been declared classical so far?

Languages                   Date of Recognition               Notification by                                 Source/Notification Date

Tamil                           October 12, 2004                    Ministry of Home Affairs                    October 12, 2004

Ministry of           Sanskrit                      November 25, 2005                 Ministry of Home Affairs                   November 25, 2005

Telugu                        October 31, 2008                     Ministry of Culture                            October 31, 2008

Kannada                    October 31, 2008                     Ministry of Culture                           October 31, 2008

Malayalam                August 8, 2013                         Ministry of Culture                           August 8, 2013

Odia                           March 1, 2014                          Ministry of Culture                          March 1, 2014

 Steps Taken by the Ministry of Education for Advancing Classical Languages:

• Establishment of Central Universities (2020): Three universities created to promote Sanskrit through an Act of Parliament.
• Central Institute of Classical Tamil:
  • Facilitates translation of ancient Tamil texts.
  • Promotes research and offers courses for students and scholars.
• Centres for Excellence:
  • Established for Classical Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia under the Central Institute of Indian Languages in Mysuru.
• Awards: Introduction of national and international awards to recognize achievements in Classical Languages.
• Additional Benefits:
  • National Awards for Classical Languages.
  • Establishment of university chairs.
  • Dedicated centers for promoting Classical Languages.

In News:

• The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the results of the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) for the financial year 2022-23 (April 2022 to March 2023).
  • The fieldwork for this survey was conducted from November 2023 to June 2024.
• The ASI provides critical insights into the dynamics of the manufacturing sector, covering aspects such as output, value added, employment, and capital formation.

Key Highlights

• Gross Value Added (GVA): Increased by 7.3% in current prices for 2022-23 compared to the previous year.
• Industrial Output: Grew by over 21% in 2022-23 compared to 2021-22.
• Employment: Estimated employment in the sector rose by 7.4% over the previous year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

The growth in key economic parameters such as invested capital, input, output, GVA, and wages indicates a robust recovery in the industrial sector. Notably, industries like Basic Metal Manufacturing, Coke & Refined Petroleum Products, Food Products, Chemicals, and Motor Vehicles were significant contributors, accounting for about 58% of total output and showing a 24.5% increase in output and 2.6% in GVA.

State Contributions

• Top GVA Contributors:
  • Maharashtra
  • Gujarat
  • Tamil Nadu
  • Karnataka
  • Uttar Pradesh

Together, these states contributed over 54% of the total manufacturing GVA.

• Highest Employment States:
  • Tamil Nadu
  • Maharashtra
  • Gujarat
  • Uttar Pradesh
  • Karnataka

Collectively, these states accounted for about 55% of total manufacturing employment in 2022-23.

Survey Details

The ASI encompasses various industrial units, including:

• Factories registered under the Factories Act, 1948.
• Bidi and cigar manufacturing establishments.
• Electricity undertakings not registered with the Central Electricity Authority.
• Units with 100 or more employees registered in the Business Register of Establishments.

The survey employs a comprehensive sampling strategy, dividing units into Central and State Samples to ensure accurate representation. Key components of the data collection include:

• Central Sample: Includes all units in less industrially developed states and specific industrial categories.
• State Sample: Comprises selected units based on employee count and other criteria.

Industrial Classification

Since 1959, the ASI has adopted various classifications to categorize industries. The current classification, NIC 2008, is based on the UN's international standards and has been in use since 2008-09.

Data Collection and Reliability

Data collection is conducted via a dedicated web portal, following the Collection of Statistics Act. Various quality checks ensure reliability, with the Relative Standard Errors (RSE) for important estimates remaining within acceptable limits.

In News:

Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan governments signed an agreement for the implementation of the Rs 72,000 crore Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project.

Modified PKC-ERCP Project Overview

• Signatories: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti signed a MoU for implementation.
• Project Type: Inter-state river linking initiative.
• Integration: Combines the long-standing Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal (PKC) project with the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) under India's National Perspective Plan for interlinking rivers.

Objectives and Benefits

• Water Supply: Aims to provide drinking and industrial water to 13 districts in eastern Rajasthan and the Malwa and Chambal regions of Madhya Pradesh.
• Irrigation: Expected to irrigate approximately 5.6 lakh hectares across both states.
• Groundwater Management: Focus on improving groundwater levels and enhancing socio-economic conditions in rural Rajasthan.

Project Components

• Detailed Project Report (DPR): Currently under preparation, will outline water sharing, cost distribution, and implementation strategies.
• Historical Context:
  • PKC Project: Proposed in 1980 as part of a national plan, initially focused on diverting water from Kalisindh and Newaj rivers to Chambal.
  • ERCP: Proposed by Rajasthan in 2019 to optimize water resources by redistributing surplus monsoon water from various sub-basins to deficit areas.

Geographic Focus

• Beneficiary Districts in Rajasthan: Includes Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Karauli, and others.
• River Systems Involved:
  • Chambal River: Originates in Madhya Pradesh, flows through Rajasthan, and joins the Yamuna.
  • Kalisindh and Parbati Rivers: Serve as sources for water diversion.

Implementation Challenges

• Dependable Yield Issues: The original project proposal was based on a 50% dependable yield, contrary to the 75% norm, which was unacceptable to Madhya Pradesh. This led to discussions and revisions.
• Task Force Recommendations: Integrated discussions led to the proposal of the Modified PKC-ERCP, addressing both states' concerns.

Significance of the Project

• National Perspective Plan (NPP): Part of a larger initiative to manage water resources effectively across India, aiming to address water scarcity and improve irrigation.
• Support for Industrial Development: Enhances water availability for the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, fostering economic growth.

In News:

The Union Cabinet approved the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme to promote electric mobility in the country.

Objective:

• Accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption
• Establish essential charging infrastructure
• Promote cleaner and sustainable transportation

Key Highlights

• Significant Occasion: Launched on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi's 155th Birth Anniversary, aligning with the vision of ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Swachh Vahan’.
• Financial Commitment: Union Cabinet approved a financial outlay of ?10,900 crore for the scheme over two years (approved on September 11, 2024).

Key Features of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme

1. Subsidies/Demand Incentives:
   • Total of ?3,679 crore allocated for:
     • 24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws)
     • 3.16 lakh electric three-wheelers (e-3Ws)
     • 14,028 electric buses (e-buses)
2. E-Voucher Introduction:
   • Aadhaar-authenticated e-vouchers for EV customers
   • Simplifies access to incentives, with real-time generation for dealers.
3. E-Ambulances:
   • ?500 crore allocated for deployment
   • Standards to be developed with relevant ministries.
4. E-Buses:
   • ?4,391 crore for 14,028 e-buses in nine major cities
   • Focus on replacing scrapped state transport unit buses.
5. E-Trucks:
   • ?500 crore for incentivizing electric trucks
   • Scrapping certificates required for incentives.
6. Public Charging Stations:
   • ?2,000 crore to install:
     • 22,100 fast chargers for electric four-wheelers (e-4Ws)
     • 1,800 for e-buses
     • 48,400 for e-2Ws/3Ws
7. Test Agency Modernization:
   • ?780 crore for upgrading Ministry of Heavy Industries test agencies to accommodate new EV technologies.

Context

• India’s crude oil imports are influenced by refinery maintenance cycles, which affect demand.
• August saw a dip in oil demand due to pre-maintenance preparations, but September recorded a recovery.

September Oil Import Trends

• Saudi Arabia:
  • Imports rose 39.8% month-on-month to 0.73 million barrels per day (bpd), the highest since March.
  • Saudi market share increased to 15.5% in September from 11.7% in August.
  • Riyadh is reducing prices to regain lost market share, as earlier imports had plummeted to a multi-year low (0.42 million bpd in June).
• Russia:
  • Remains India’s largest oil supplier with imports increasing by 6.4% from August to 1.88 million bpd.
  • Russian crude constituted 40.2% of India’s total crude imports of 4.68 million bpd in September.
• Iraq:
  • Supplied 0.87 million bpd, accounting for 18.7% of total imports.
• UAE:
  • Oil imports increased by 18.6% month-on-month to 0.49 million bpd, the highest since June 2022.

Market Dynamics

• Price Sensitivity: Indian refiners are highly price-sensitive, which could lead to increased competition among suppliers.
• Potential for Increased Russian Imports: With Indian refiners expected to secure larger long-term contracts for Russian oil, further increases in imports from Russia are anticipated.

Strategic Implications

• Saudi Arabia is concerned about losing market share to Russia, especially as India’s refiners are currently favoring discounted Russian crude.
• Increased competition may benefit Indian refiners through better pricing from various suppliers.

Economic Context

• India, as the world's third-largest oil consumer with over 85% import dependency, is significantly affected by global oil price fluctuations.
• Although discounts on Russian crude have decreased, the overall savings from purchasing large volumes remain significant for Indian refiners.

The evolving landscape of India’s oil imports highlights the competitive dynamics among major suppliers, particularly Saudi Arabia and Russia, and underscores India’s strategic importance as a key market in the global oil sector.

In News:

Little Prespa Lake on Albanian-Greek border slowly dying.

Overview of Little Prespa Lake's Decline

• Location and Geography:
  • Little Prespa Lake is situated on the Albanian-Greek border, primarily in Greece with a southern tip extending into Albania.
  • It covers approximately 450 hectares in Albania, now largely transformed into swamps or dry land.
• Ecological Changes:
  • Once a crystal-clear lake, it has degraded into a marshy area, with about 430 hectares in Albania suffering from significant drying.
  • Local wildlife has shifted; cows now roam where fish once thrived.
• Historical Context:
  • The lake's decline began in the 1970s when Albanian authorities diverted the Devoll River to irrigate surrounding agricultural lands, severely limiting water inflow.
• Climate Change Impact:
  • Rising temperatures, mild winters, and decreased precipitation have intensified the lake’s ecological crisis.
  • Local experts warn that continued dry winters and hot summers could lead to irreversible damage.

In News:

The central government launched the five-year Cruise Bharat Mission, aiming to boost cruise tourism in India to 1 million passengers and create 400,000 jobs by 2029.

Mission Goals

• Passenger Traffic: Increase from 0.5 million to 1 million sea cruise passengers by 2029.
• River Cruise Passengers: Grow from 0.5 million to 1.5 million.
• Job Creation: Generate 400,000 jobs in the cruise sector.
• Infrastructure Expansion:
  • International cruise terminals: From 2 to 10.
  • River cruise terminals: From 50 to 100.
  • Marinas: From 1 to 5.

Implementation Phases

1. Phase 1 (2024-2025):
   • Conduct studies and master planning.
   • Form alliances with neighboring countries.
   • Modernize existing cruise terminals and destinations.
2. Phase 2 (2025-2027):
   • Develop new cruise terminals and marinas.
   • Activate high-potential cruise locations.
3. Phase 3 (2027-2029):
   • Integrate cruise circuits across the Indian Subcontinent.
   • Continue developing infrastructure and enhancing cruise experiences.

Strategic Focus Areas

• Sustainable Infrastructure:
  • Develop world-class terminals, marinas, and water aerodromes.
  • Emphasize digitalization (e.g., facial recognition) and decarbonization (shore power).
  • Create a National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047.
• Operational Efficiency:
  • Streamline operations using digital solutions (e.g., e-clearance and e-visa facilities).
• Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration:
  • Focus on international marketing and investment.
  • Host events like the "Cruise India Summit."
  • Form alliances with neighboring countries (UAE, Maldives, Singapore).
• Regulatory and Financial Policies:
  • Establish tailored fiscal and financial policies.
  • Launch a National Cruise Tourism Policy.
• Capacity Building & Employment:
  • Create a Centre of Excellence for cruise-related economic research.
  • Develop National Occupational Standards to enhance youth employment opportunities.

Expected Outcomes

• Tourism Growth: Position India as a global cruise destination.
• Cultural Promotion: Highlight the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of Bharat through cruise circuits.
• Community Benefits: Ensure inclusive growth for local communities and stakeholders in the cruise sector.

The Cruise Bharat Mission is set to redefine India's cruise tourism landscape, focusing on infrastructure development, operational efficiency, and promoting cultural heritage, while ensuring economic growth and job creation for the future.

In News:

BharatGen is a pioneering generative AI initiative launched in New Delhi, aimed at revolutionizing public service delivery and enhancing citizen engagement, with Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State, in virtual attendance.

• Significance
  • Represents India's commitment to advancing homegrown technologies.
  • Positions India as a global leader in generative AI, similar to achievements with UPI and other innovations.
  • Marks the world's first government-funded Multimodal Large Language Model project focusing on Indian languages.
• Leadership and Implementation
  • Spearheaded by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).
  • Collaboration with the TIH Foundation for IoT and various academic partners, including IITs and IIMs.
  • Key figures involved include Prof. Shireesh Kedare (Director, IIT Bombay) and Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan (consortium leader).
• Core Objectives
  • Deliver generative AI models as a public good, prioritizing socio-cultural and linguistic diversity.
  • Address broader needs such as social equity, cultural preservation, and inclusivity.
  • Make AI accessible for industrial, commercial, and national priorities.
• Key Features
  • Multilingual and Multimodal Models: Capable of handling text and speech in multiple languages.
  • Bhartiya Data Sets: Focus on India-centric data collection and training.
  • Open-Source Platform: Promotes collaboration and innovation in AI research.
  • Ecosystem Development: Fosters a robust AI research community.
• Project Timeline and Impact
  • Expected completion in two years, with benefits for government, private, educational, and research institutions.
  • Ensures coverage of India’s diverse linguistic landscape through multilingual datasets.
  • Emphasis on data sovereignty to strengthen control over digital resources.
• Alignment with National Goals
  • Supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by reducing reliance on foreign technologies.
  • Aims to strengthen the domestic AI ecosystem for startups, industries, and government agencies.
  • Focuses on democratizing access to AI for innovators and researchers.
• Research and Community Engagement
  • Data-efficient learning for languages with limited digital presence.
  • Development of effective models with minimal data through research collaborations.
  • Initiatives to foster an AI research community, including training programs and hackathons.
• Future Roadmap
  • Key milestones outlined up to July 2026, focusing on:
    • Extensive AI model development and experimentation.
    • Establishment of AI benchmarks tailored to India’s needs.
    • Scaling AI adoption across industries and public initiatives.

In News:

The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise, KAZIND-2024, has commenced in Auli, Uttarakhand, running from September 30 to October 13, 2024.

Key Details:

• Joint Exercise KAZIND-2024 has been held annually since 2016.
• Last edition of the Joint Exercise was held at Otar, Kazakhstan from 30th October to 11th November 2023.

Participants:

• India:
  • 120 personnel from KUMAON Regiment of the Indian Army
  • Additional support from other arms and Indian Air Force
• Kazakhstan:
  • Personnel primarily from Land Forces and Airborne Assault Troopers

Aim:

• Enhance joint military capability for counter-terrorism operations
• Focus on sub-conventional scenarios under Chapter VII of the UN Charter

Focus Areas:

• Operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains
• High physical fitness levels
• Rehearsal and refinement of tactical drills
• Sharing best practices