2016

UPSC Civil Services Exam

[SCIENCE & TECH + INTERNAL SECURITY] A Brief Overview and Conceptual Guide © Nitin Sangwan

Beginner’s Note:

On Science and Technology:

1. It is advisable that you read some NCERTs if you are not comfortable in science and technology section. But let me assure you, science and technology questions that are asked in UPSC are not questions of science and technology per se, but are more of current events. So, those from arts background need not panic about this portion of syllabus. UPSC now a days asks only some conceptual contemporary questions which are not at all difficult to understand. 2. When you come across any news item regarding some significant scientific development, just google it to have a better understanding. Since this portion is a dynamic one, read newspaper continuously to be fully aware. So far in past couple of years the questions which have been asked relate to very prominent scientific developments or some basic contemporary scientific concepts.

On Internal Security

1. ‘India’ is a god source of having a good overview of our defence and security forces. Read its relevant chapters. 2. However, the questions which are likely to be asked in this section, will be more or less from current events or our historical policy related to some countries like Pakistan, China, USSR, USA etc. So, it is advisable that newspaper is read thoroughly. 3. Relevant summaries of 2nd ARC can also be read (if you have time, just glance through the relevant sections of the full report) – ‘Capacity Building for Conflict Resolution' (7th Report) ‘Combating Terrorism-Protecting By Righteousness’ (8th Report)

Always keep things manageable. It is not so important that how much you read, but how well you read. Keep in mind that whatever you read, you have to revise that also at times of mains exam. So, limit your study material.

Best of luck!

Nitin Sangwan AIR 28 (2016), AIR359 (2015), AIR 320 (2014) Drop me a comment at: www.meandupsc.blogspot.in if you need some further help in the exam, suggestions or any major discrepancies in these notes for benefit of others.

© Nitin Sangwan

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

*Glossary

ACID RAIN –Oxides of sulphur and nitrogen dissolve in rain water and form acids. Such rain is called acid rain. The use of diesel and petrol as fuels in automobiles is being replaced by CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), because CNG produces the harmful products in very small amounts. When pH of rain water is less than 5.6, it is called acid rain. When acid rain flows into the rivers, it lowers the pH of the river water. The survival of aquatic life in such rivers becomes difficult.

AEROSOL– Aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas. Examples are clouds, and air pollution such as smog and smoke.

ALMA – It is the world’s largest ground based telescope that has come up in Chile.

ANABOLIC STEROIDS– These are drugs that mimic the effects of testosterone in the body. They increase protein synthesis within cells, which results in the buildup of cellular tissue (anabolism), especially in muscles. They are mostly banned or discouraged for usage.

ANTIOXIDANTS– These are basically the ‘reducing’ agents and are the substances that protect the cells from damage caused by ‘free radicals’ (free radicals are oxidizing i.e. electron deficient agents). Antioxidants are reducing agents, and limit oxidative damage to biological structures by passivating free radicals. Phenomenon of ageing is often related to the accumulation of damage caused by free radical. Free radicals may also cause cancer. Some anti-oxidants are – Beta-Carotene, lycopene, Vitamin C, A and E.

ARTIFICIAL BLOOD is the type of blood produced in lab from stem cells. First breakthrough has come in the form of production of red blood cells (RBC). These RBCs carry oxygen & rightly considered as main constituent of blood.

ATHERO-SCLEROSIS – Hardening and narrowing of arteries that leads to strokes and is often linked to lifestyle causes.

AUTO-IMMUNE DISEASES – Autoimmune diseases arise from an abnormal immune response of the body against substances and tissues normally present in the body (autoimmunity). A substantial minority of the population suffers from these diseases, which are often chronic, debilitating, and life-threatening. There are more than 80 illnesses caused by autoimmunity. The treatment of autoimmune diseases is typically with immunosuppression—medication that decreases the immune response.

BALLISTIC MISSILE– A ballistic missile is a missile that follows a sub-orbital ballistic flight path with the objective © Nitin Sangwan of delivering one or more warheads to a predetermined target. The missile is only guided during the relatively brief initial powered phase of flight and its course is subsequently governed by the laws of orbital mechanics and ballistics.

BEAM– The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module, nicknamed Beam is a low-cost space dwelling that inflates like a balloon in orbit. It is to be tested aboard the International Space Station (ISS). It is scheduled for launch in mid-2015 aboard a Dragon cargo ship of Space Exploration Technologies.

BIG DATA is the term for a collection of data sets so large and complex that it becomes difficult to process using on-hand database management tools or traditional data processing applications. The challenges include capture, curation, storage, search, sharing, transfer, analysis and visualization. But big data has many uses like –

 The computing power of big data analytics enables us to decode entire DNA strings in minutes  Most elite sports have now embraced big data analytics.  Science and research is currently being transformed by the new possibilities big data brings. Take, for example, CERN, the Swiss nuclear physics lab with its Large Hadron Collider, the world‘s largest and most powerful particle accelerator.  Big data is applied heavily in improving security and enabling law enforcement.  Big data is used to improve many aspects of our cities and countries. For example, it allows cities to optimize traffic flows based on real time traffic information as well as social media and weather data.  Understanding and Targeting Customers  Understanding and Optimizing Business Processes BIOACCUMULATION or BIOCONCENTRATION – It refers to the accumulation of substances, such as pesticides, or other organic chemicals in an organism. Bioaccumulation occurs when an organism absorbs a toxic substance at a rate greater than that at which the substance is lost. Thus, the longer the biological half-life of the substance the greater the risk of chronic poisoning, even if environmental levels of the toxin are not very high.

BIOMAGNIFICATION or BIOAMPLIFICATION –Biomagnification, also known as bioamplification or biological magnification, is the increase in concentration of a substance that occurs in a food chain. Biological magnification often refers to the process whereby certain substances such as pesticides or heavy metals move up the food chain, work their way into rivers or lakes, and are eaten by aquatic organisms such as fish, which in turn are eaten by large birds, animals or humans.

BIO-ENGINEERING – It is the application of concepts and methods of biology and secondarily of physics, chemistry etc to solve problems in life sciences.

BIOFORTIFICATION is the idea of breeding crops to increase their nutritional value. This can be done either through conventional selective breeding, or through genetic engineering. Once in place, the biofortified crop system is highly sustainable. Nutritionally improved varieties will continue to be grown © Nitin Sangwan and consumed year after year, even if government attention and international funding for micronutrient issues fades. It involves one-time investment to develop seeds that fortify themselves. The recurrent costs are low, and germplasm can be shared internationally.

BIOINFORMATICS– Bioinformatics is the application of computer science and information technology to the field of biology and medicine. Bioinformatics deals with algorithms, databases and information systems, web technologies, artificial intelligence and soft computing

BIOMATERIAL is identified as materials which can be , natural or synthetic and nonviable material used in a medical device, intended to interact with biological systems.

BIOMINERALISATION –Biomineralization is the process by which living organisms produce minerals, often to harden or stiffen existing tissues. Such tissues are called mineralized tissues. These minerals often form structural features such as sea shells and the bone in mammals and birds. The potential application of this phenomenon is using it to produce nano materials which at present are difficult to fabricate.

BIONICS– Bionics (also known as BIOMIMICRY) is the application of biological methods and systems found in nature to the study and design of engineering systems and modern technology. For example – Bionic Architecture is one such stream which aims at designing buildings copying the naturally occurring biological structures.

BIO-PIRACY –Biopiracy is a situation where indigenous knowledge of nature, originating with indigenous people, is exploited for commercial gain (by MNCs, corporate etc) without permission from and with no compensation to the indigenous people themselves. Biopiracy commonly operates through the application of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) (primarily patents) to genetic/indigenous resources and traditional knowledge. Bio-prospecting and bio piracy – Bio-prospecting is the scientific research that looks for useful products in the nature to create pharmaceuticals or other products. Compensation has to be given to the community or the country from where the natural resource has been obtained. On the other hand, Bio-piracy is the development of these pharmaceutical (or other) products without giving compensation to the community that nurtured and protected the organisms on which these products are based. In India, TKDL is one initiative which will help in curbing the bio piracy. Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing, 2010 also has provisions to stop biopiracy. Setting of NBA is another step in this direction.

BIOREMEDIATION–Bioremediation is the use of micro-organism metabolism to remove pollutants. Some examples of bioremediation technologies are phytoremediation, bioventing, bioleaching, landfarming, bioreactor, composting, bioaugmentation, rhizofiltration, and biostimulation.Bioremediation can occur on its own (natural attenuation or intrinsic bioremediation) or can be spurred on via the addition of fertilizers to increase the bioavailability within the medium (biostimulation).

BIOSIGNATURE– A biosignature is any substance - such as an element, isotope, or molecule, or phenomenon - that provides scientific evidence of past or present life. Possible biosignatures include – microfossils, isotopic compositions of carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen in organic matter etc. Life © Nitin Sangwan processes may produce a range of biosignatures such as nucleic acids, lipids, proteins, amino acids.

BLUE BRAIN PROJECT – The Blue Brain Project is an attempt to create a synthetic brain by reverse- engineering the mammalian brain down to the molecular level. The aim of the project, founded in May 2005, is to study the brain's architectural and functional principles.

BODY MASS INDEX –It is the ratio of the ‘Weight’ and ‘Square Height’. It should be between 18.5–25. It is not applicable for young growing children.

THE ‘BRAIN’ INITIATIVE (Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies) is an ambitious plan to map the human brain for the first time, in an attempt to seek vital clues for treating diseases such as Parkinson‘s and Alzheimer‘s. It is launched in USA at cost of $100 million.

BREAKTHROUGH PRIZE – a new prize in Life Sciences announced by tycoons like Yuri Milner, Sergy Brin, Mark Zuckerberg with prize money of $3 million each for 11 scientists and it will awarded to young scientists. Its selection process will be transparent and anyone will be able to nominate. Each year’s winners will join selection panel of next year. There will be no prize giving ceremony as well instead, winners will be required to share their work via lectures, talks etc far and wide.

CARBON SEQUESTERING– Carbon sequestration describes long-term storage of carbon dioxide or other forms of carbon to either mitigate or defer global warming. It has been proposed as a way to slow the atmospheric and marine accumulation of greenhouse gases, which are released by burning fossil fuels. The main debate in the context of carbon capture and sequestering is about the feasibility of the technologies. Right now storing the carbon in hermetically sealed containers at high pressure is costly affair and it may negate the benefits. There is also a debate whether Carbon Sequestering be allowed for Carbon Credits Mechanism.

CARBON SINKS – A carbon sink is a natural or artificial reservoir that accumulates and stores some carbon-containing chemical compound for an ‘indefinite period’. The process by which carbon sinks remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere is known as carbon sequestration.The main natural sinks are: oceans via physicochemical and biological processes, Photosynthesis by terrestrial plants. The main artificial sinks are: Landfills, Carbon capture and storage proposals.

CCD or Charged Couple Device – It is like an electronic eye which facilitate capturing of light for modern digital camera and it has facilitated that images can now be captured on a screen instead of a film. It makes use of photo-electrical effect as given by Einstein in which light is converted into electrical signals.

COAL GASis obtained during the processing of coal to get coke. It is used as a fuel in many industries situated near the coal processing plants.

COLLOIDAL QUANTUM DOTS – These are the materials that convert solar energy from entire spectrum unlike the earlier semi-conductor materials which convert solar energy into electrical from only a particular spectrum.

CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY – It is a technology of harnessing solar energy which uses mirrors and lenses to concentrate sun light and improve efficiency (40%). But challenges are they © Nitin Sangwan don't work in diffused light and need direct sunlight.

CRYONICS is the low-temperature preservation of animals (including humans) who cannot be sustained by contemporary medicine, with the hope that healing and resuscitation may be possible in the future.

DARK MATTER – In astronomy and cosmology, dark matter is matter that neither emits nor scatters light or other electromagnetic radiation, and so cannot be directly detected via optical or radio astronomy. Its existence is inferred from gravitational effects on visible matter and gravitational lensing of background radiation, and was originally hypothesized to account for discrepancies between calculations of the mass of galaxies, clusters of galaxies and the entire universe.

DATA BROKERS are companies which buy personal consumer data, create profiles and resell it to other organizations. Data brokers can collect information about consumers from a variety of public and non- public sources including courthouse records, website cookies and loyalty card programs. Typically, brokers create profiles of individuals for marketing purposes and sell them to businesses who want to target their advertisements and special offers.

DIABETES –In common parlance it is called ‘sugar disease’. It is of two types – Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes Type 2 Diabetes Type 1 afflicts children/teens and hence also Type 2 is for Adults – reason for other name ‘Adult called ‘Juvenile Onset’ before the age of 30. Onset’. Type 2 diabetes is also termed as one of the lifestyle diseases. Type 1 has insulin dependency Type 2 doesn’t have insulin dependency Type 1 has its onset rapid in weeks Type 2 has onset Slow, in years Type 1 is cured through medications Type 2 is mostly treated with healthy regime, weight loss and exercise. Both are genetic.

DIGITAL SIGNATURE – A digital signature or digital signature scheme is a mathematical scheme for demonstrating the authenticity of a digital message or document. A valid digital signature gives a recipient reason to believe that the message was created by a known sender, and that it was not altered in transit. Digital signatures are commonly used for software distribution, financial transactions, and in other cases where it is important to detect forgery or tampering.

DNA FINGER PRINTING or DNA PROFILING or DNA TESTING–It is a method of isolating and making images of sequences of DNA often used by forensic scientists to ascertain the identity of a human being or another living organism. Useful information like lineage, paternity can be determined using this. It is also widely used in forensic investigation in establishing the identity of culprits especially in cases of rape, murder etc. It is based on the fact that though DNA of all human beings looks same, but the sequencing of its elements is different for every human beings and hence every human being can be uniquely identified by using this technique. Center for Molecular Biology in Hyderabad is a premier institute of India which undertake such investigation and research.

DNA SEQUENCING is the process of determining the precise order of nucleotides within a DNA © Nitin Sangwan molecule. Knowledge of DNA sequences has become indispensable for basic biological research, and in numerous applied fields such as diagnostic, biotechnology, forensic biology. The wealth of the genomics information now available will greatly assist the doctors in early diagnosis of hereditary diseases like Parkinson disease, Huntington etc. Genome sequencing allows us to identify the specific causes of the disorder.

FAST BREEDER REACTOR– The term ‘fast breeder’ refers to the types of configurations which produce more fissionable fuel than they use i.e. more fuel is produced than is spent. In these types of reactors instead of Water, Liquid Sodium is used as moderator.

FORTIFIED FOOD–It came into news after various state government announced to supply it under mid day meal scheme in schools. Keeping in view of the undernourishment of the children and lack of proper nutrients in the food, it is planned that micronutrients will be artificially added to the normal food like poha, idli given to students. One important challenge is that there are certain fat soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, D and E which if given in excess, body has no mechanism to drain them.

GENE– A gene is a molecular unit of heredity of a living organism. It is a name given to some stretches of DNA and RNA that carry information about certain functions. Genes hold the information to build and maintain an organism's cells and pass genetic traits to offspring.

GENE PATENTING – It involves discovery and then patenting of the discovered genes. In Myriad Genetics case, US Federal court held that since genes exist naturally, they or their findings cannot be patented.

GENETIC TESTING – It involves the direct examination of the DNA molecule itself It is used or carrier screening (disease carrying genes), forensic testing to confirm identities, pre-natal diagnostic and so on.

GENE THERAPY – It involves altering DNA by encoding it and then planting it back. If it is planted in somatic cells, it is called somatic gene therapy and the alterations are not inherited. If it is planted in germ cells, it is called germ gene therapy and traits are inherited. Preventive gene therapy means altering the DNA before a disease manifests itself.

GIS – Geographic Information System– In the simplest terms, GIS is the merging of cartography, statistical analysis, and database technology. A geographic information system, geographical information science, or geospatial information studies is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present all types of geographically referenced data. GIS technology can be used for – earth surface-based scientific investigations; resource management; reference and projections of a geospatial nature, both artificial and natural; archaeology; environmental impact- assessment; infrastructure assessment and development; urban planning and regional planning; cartography, for a thematic and/or time-based purpose; criminology; geospatial intelligence In India the technology has been successfully used in improving the bus service efficiency in Ahmadabad, Bhopal, Indore. NDPL has used in addressing the power distribution challenges in Delhi.

GOLDILOCKS ZONE – it is the zone/orbit around a star which has habitable conditions with temperature neither too high nor too low, so that liquid water may be present at surface. © Nitin Sangwan

GRAVITATIONAL LENSING works in an analogous way and is an effect of Einstein's theory of general relativity – simply put, mass bends light. The gravitational field of a massive object will extend far into space, and cause light rays passing close to that object (and thus through its gravitational field) to be bent and refocused somewhere else. The more massive the object, the stronger its gravitational field and hence the greater the bending of light rays - just like using denser materials to make optical lenses results in a greater amount of refraction.

GRID COMPUTING – Grid computing utilize the power of many computers connected in a grid to solve complex problems by acting like a big virtual computer. It can be an organizational grid or a global grid.

HEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELL – Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells and Platelets are the three types of cells found in blood. All of them ultimately trace their lineage to one common predecessor: the Hematopoietic Stem Cell (HSC). HSC Transplantation (HSCT) is the only therapeutically available Stem Cell Therapy (SCT).

HEPATITIS A and HEPATITIS B– Hepatitis is the medical term for inflammation of the liver. There are five hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. There are many causes of hepatitis, including viruses, alcoholism, and medications. Hepatitis may occur with limited or no symptoms, but often leads to jaundice, anorexia (poor appetite) and malaise.

I. Hepatitis A can be found in the feces of a contaminated person. Hepatitis A is mainly transmitted through the fecal-oral route. That means infected people shed viruses in their feces. If they don't observe proper hygiene, the virus can end up on their hands. II. Hepatitis B virus is present within the bloodstream, semen, and vaginal secretions of infected individuals. HORMONES are chemical substances. These are secretions from endocrine glands, or endocrine system. Endocrine glands release hormones into the bloodstream to reach a particular body part called target site. The production of hormones is under the control of another hormone secreted from an endocrine gland called pituitary gland or also called Master Gland (It is situated near head). Pituitary also secretes growth hormone which is necessary for the normal growth of a person. Pancreas (secretes insulin) and Adernal (secretes aderniline) are situated near the stomach.

HUMAN GENOME PROJECT – It was a US led international effort to sequence entire human genetic code or genome starting in 1990 which complete in 2003. A genome is all the DNA that is contained in an organism. The project’s significance lies in the fact that it will make the human beings like an open book and will explain their various traits by reading out one’s genome. It will help in identifying specific genes which cause certain diseases, dysfunctions and abnormalities.

HYDROGENATION– Hydrogenation means to reduce a compound by treating it with hydrogen molecules. It is often in news in relation to the food industry. Hydrogenation is widely applied to the processing of vegetable oils fats. Complete hydrogenation converts unsaturated fatty acids to saturated ones. In practice the process is not usually carried to completion. Hydrogenation results in the conversion of liquid vegetable oils to solid or semi-solid fats, such as those present in margarine. © Nitin Sangwan

KEPLER MISSION – It aims at discovering hundred of earth like planets in the Milkyway.

LIGHT WATER REACTOR– The light water reactor (LWR) is a type of thermal reactor that uses normal water as its coolant and neutron moderator. Thermal reactors are the most common type of nuclear reactor, and light water reactors are the most common type of thermal reactor.

MARS ONE–A one way first human mission to Mars in 2023. Mars One is a non-profit organization that plans to establish a permanent human colony on Mars by 2023. The private spaceflight project is led by Dutch entrepreneur. A global reality-TV media event is intended to provide most of the funds to finance the expedition. It should begin with the astronaut selection process (with some public participation)

NEAR EARTH ORBIT – It is at a height of about 400 km from earth surface. In this orbit, satellites with shorter life-span of 2-3 years are put and they have to overcome high gravitational forces. Usually experimental satellites are launched in it.

LOW EARTH ORBIT – It is at a height of 900 km and Remote Sensing satellites are put in like IRS series satellites.

GEOSTATIONRY ORBIT or GEOSYNCHRONOUS ORBIT – It is at a height of 36,000 km above the equator of the earth. It is almost circular. Satellites in this orbit take 23 hours and 56 minutes and 4 seconds to complete one revolution around the earth and this time is same as the time taken by earth to rotate around its own axis. This is the reason that Geostationary satellite always remain fixed from the perspective of earth. Most communication satellites like INSAT are put in this orbit.

NEGLECTED (TROPICAL) DISEASES – The neglected diseases are a group of tropical infections which are especially endemic in low-income populations in developing regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Some of these diseases have known preventive measures or acute medical treatments which are available in the developed world but which are not universally available in poorer areas. In some cases, the treatments are relatively inexpensive. Few of the most prevalent such diseases are - Leprosy, Kala Azar, Elephantiasis and various diseases caused by worms. Since India is a developing country and still people are not getting enough preventive medical aid to fight these diseases effectively, this is a matter of huge concern. These diseases are contrasted with the big three diseases (HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria), which generally receive greater treatment and research funding. The neglected diseases can also make HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis more deadly. Leprosy was in news in 2014 as SC made an observation on failure of the government in eradicating it despite treatment being developed for so many years. Kala Azar was also in news in 2014 as some states like Bihar, Jharkhand still have the prevalence of this disease despite the fact that in most parts of the countries it was eradicated a few decades back.

NEMATODES – These are the one of the most difficult garden pests to control. These are round warms that feed on the roots of the plants and restrict the plant’s ability to absorb and retain water. They also cause various diseases in humans and animals. Elephantiasis or Lymphatic Filiarasis is one of them which is cause by Mosquito. © Nitin Sangwan

NEUTRINO OBSERVATORY PROJECT – Neutrinos are element particles which were till recently were considered massless. They are abundantly present in universe, but are still elusive. They pass our body daily in figures of billions, but still there is no considerable knowledge about them. India is a pioneer in neutrino physics with very first cosmic rays produced neutrinos was made in the Kolar Gold Fields experiment in 1965. New proposed project will be a huge underground facility with a huge detector.

NON COMMUNICABLE DISEASES or LIFESTYLE DISEASES– They include diseases like – Hypertension, Diabetes – India has highest number of diabetes patients in the world, Heart Attack, Obesity and Cholesterol. Burden of these diseases is increasing globally due to sedentary lifestyle, rising stress in life etc.

NON-IONISING RADIATIONS–Non-ionizing (or non-ionising) radiation refers to any type of electromagnetic radiation that does not carry enough energy per quantum to ionize atoms or molecules—that is, to completely remove an electron from an atom or molecule. Instead of producing charged ions when passing through matter, the electromagnetic radiation has sufficient energy only for excitation, the movement of an electron to a higher energy state. Nevertheless, different biological effects are observed for different types of non-ionizing radiation. Near ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwave, radio waves, and low-frequency RF (longwave) are all examples of non-ionizing radiation. Recently they have been in news due to their harmful effects discovered in mobile phone towers which also emit non-ionising radiations. Unlike ionizing radiations like - X-Rays and Gamma Rays, these don’t strip the Electrons away from molecules in cell tissues and hence cannot damage DNA and other biomolecules. Further SAR – Specific Absorption Rate, defined as the rate of energy deposited in the biological systems – it has been fixed at 2w/kg for mobile phone radiations.

OCEAN ACIDIFICATION– Ocean acidification is the name given to the ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earth's oceans, caused by the uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. About a quarter of the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere goes into the oceans, where it forms carbonic acid. It has adverse effect on oceanic organisms and other things like Coral reefs in which coral bleaching happens.

OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS– Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential fatty acids i.e. they are necessary for human health but the body can't make them, but are absorbed through certain foods. Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function, as well as normal growth and development. They have also become popular because they may reduce the risk of heart disease. Some fishes, nuts etc are good sources of these fatty acids.

PHYTOREMEDIATION– Phytoremediation describes the treatment of environmental problems (bioremediation) through the use of plants that mitigate the environmental problem without the need to excavate the contaminant material and dispose of it elsewhere. Phytoremediation may be applied wherever the soil or static water environment has become polluted or is suffering ongoing chronic pollution. Examples where phytoremediation has been used successfully include the restoration of abandoned metal-mine workings.

PROBIOTIC FOOD– Probiotic organisms are live microorganisms thought to be beneficial to the host © Nitin Sangwan organism. Probiotic food is food that contains beneficial live bacteria. Probiotic food is beneficial for health and capable of boosting immunity. The first example of probiotic food was the introduction of acidophilus to milk, which in some cases helped people who had difficulty digesting milk to be able to tolerate milk better. Most probiotic food is fermented at least partially.

PROTON THERAPY – It is latest in Cancer care and unlike the traditional radiation therapy which affects healthy tissues as well, it affects only malignant tissues.

QUANTUM COMPUTER – They are based on Quantum mechanical phenomenon. While ordinary computers use binary numbers, they use principles of quantum physics. Like bit of digital computers, they use Qubits or quantum bits which instead of being 1 or 0 at one time can also have both the values at the same time as well and all values between 0 and 1.

REGENERATIVE PLASTIC, as the name suggests, have the capability to heal and regenerate itself in the event of any damage or cracks or breakage. Until now only tiny microscopic cracks could be healed, but now larger cracks and cleavages have been taken care of by this technique. It uses multiple fluid streams reaching the target. A restorative material is supplied to the damaged area. It gels and tightens, thus filling the gap and repairing the damage. The capability is a boon for various commercial products, which need repairs or are prone to damage. Examples like toys, car bumpers, utensils, home appliances etc. Also this discovery would significantly help those parts and products that are difficult to replace or repair like those in aerospace applications or underwater devices.

SATURATED vs UNSATURATED FATS

SATURATED FATS UNSATURATED FATS Excessive consumption of saturated fats is not Unsaturated fats are considered good to eat if you are good because of their association with watching your cholesterol. However, the presence of trans atherosclerosis and heart diseases. fat especially in margarine makes it dangerous as trans fat can block arteries easily. Saturated fats are solid at room temperature Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature Saturated fats increase LDL (bad cholesterol) and Unsaturated fats (except trans fats) increase HDL (good decrease the HDL while cholesterol) and decrease LDL.

SILICENE – It is a sheet of honeycombed silicon with layers just one atom thick. Silicene is similar to Graphene which also has a honeycombed structure.

SQUARE KILOMETER ARRAY – This is a new radio telescope that is jointly coming up in Australlia and South Africa. It will be established in southern hemisphere in Sub-Saharan states where view of Milky Way is best and is least interfered with radio signals. It has 10 member countries.

STEALTH TECHNOLOGY– Stealth technology also termed LO technology (low observable technology) cover a range of techniques used with personnel, aircraft, ships, submarines, and missiles, to make them less visible (ideally invisible) to radar, infrared, sonar and other detection methods.

SUB ORBITAL PATH– A sub-orbital space flight is a spaceflight in which the spacecraft reaches space, but its trajectory intersects © Nitin Sangwan the atmosphere or surface of the gravitating body from which it was launched, so that it does not complete one orbital revolution. For example, the path of an object launched from Earth that reaches 100 km (62 mi) above sea level, and then falls back to Earth, is considered a sub-orbital spaceflight. Other vehicles are specifically designed only for sub-orbital flight; examples include manned vehicles such as the X-15 and SpaceShip One, and unmanned ones such as ICBMs and sounding rockets.

SUPERBUG – A bacteria may develop resistance to an antibiotic by developing a gene that offers resistance to the antibiotic. If a bacterium carries several resistance genes, it is called multi-resistant or, informally, a superbug or super bacterium. Widespread and indiscriminant use of anti-biotic is leading to such bacteria. NDM1 was such a bacteria that was discovered by Lancet magazine.

SUPER ABSORBANT POLYMERS– Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) (also called slush powder) are polymers that can absorb and retain extremely large amounts of a liquid relative to their own volume. Super Absorbent Polymers are the quickest, most cost-effective means of disposing of industrial sludge and liquid medical waste. They have wide applications and are also used in baby diapers.

THIRTY MILES TELESCOPE (TMT) – It is a new ground based telescope that will start its construction in Hawai from next year and will be completed by 2022. India and 5 other countries are partners and India has 10% stake. India will get time proportion to funding that it is contributing. It will have one of the largest aperture that any ground based telescope has ever had.

TRANS FAT – It is the common name for unsaturated fat with trans-isomer. Trans fats are rarely found in naturally growing food other than small amounts in cattle and sheep. So in the past, animal-based fats were the only trans fats consumed. But today the largest amount of trans fat consumed is created by the processed food industry as a side effect of partially hydrogenating unsaturated plant fats (generally vegetable oils). Trans fats are not essential fatty acids; indeed, the consumption of trans fats increases the risk of coronary heart disease by raising levels of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and lowering levels of ‘good’ HDL cholesterol.

TURING TEST – The Turing test is a test of a machine's ability to exhibit intelligent behavior equivalent to, or indistinguishable from, that of a human. The Turing Test, defined by Alan Turing in 1950 as the foundation of the philosophy of artificial intelligence.

ZOONATIC DISEASES are diseases or infections naturally transmitted between animals and humans. Anthrax, plague, rabies, cholera, bovine tuberculosis, malaria etc are well known examples. These are carried by agents such as virus, bacteria, parasite, fungi etc. Ebola is such a zoonatic disease.

Scientific developments and their applications and effects in everyday life

Achievements of Indians in science & technology

INDIAN SCIENTISTS © Nitin Sangwan

BIRBAL SAHINI – Birbal Sahni was a renowned paleobotanist of India, who studied the fossils of the Indian subcontinent. Also a great geologist, Sahni is credited for establishing the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany at Lucknow in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

C N R RAO – He is an Indian chemist who has worked mainly in solid-state and structural chemistry.Currently Prof CNR Rao is working on the advanced materials and nanomaterials including fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, metaloxide tubes and wires

C R RAO – Calyampudi Radhakrishna Rao was an Indian mathematician and statistician and made significant contribution to the Indian Statistical Institute. He is known for Cramer-Rao inequality, Rao-Blackwell theorem, Rao’s score test and Rao’s orthogonal arrays. The C.R. Rao Award for Statistics was instituted in his honor, to be given once in two years.

C V RAMAN–Chandrasekhara V. Raman, popularly known as C.V. Raman was an Indian physicist, who won Physics Nobel Prize in 1930 for Raman Effect related to scattering of light and thus becoming the first Asian to win Nobel in Physics. He found that there were two spectral lines of very low intensity (strength) parallel to the incident monochromatic light. This showed that broken light was not monochromatic, though the incident light was monochromatic. While scientists had been debating over the question whether light was like waves or like particles, the Raman Effect proved that light is made up of particles known as photons. Dr. Raman’s life is a great example for us to follow. Even when India was under British rule and there was hardly any basic infrastructure for experimentation, he used his great mind as his laboratory.

G N RAMCHANDRAN - Gopalasamudram Narayana Iyer Ramachandran is best known work of G. N. Ramachandran till date is the Ramachandran plot/map, which the scientist had conceived along with Viswanathan Sasisekharan, to understand the molecular structures. Ramachandran set up the Molecular Biophysics Unit at the IISc which is today a major research centre.

GANAPATHI THANIKAIMONI – He was a successful botanist of his days, is remembered till date for his widespread contribution in the field of palynology. His researches and projects not only helped India to make its presence felt on the world stage of botany, it also furthered public relations between two countries.

HAKIM SYED ZILLUR RAHMAN–He is well known for his contribution to Unani medicine. He founded Ibn Sina Academy of Medieval Medicine and Sciences in 2000.

HARGOBIND KHORANA – Dr. Har Gobind Khorana shared the Nobel Prize for Medicine and Physiology in 1968 with Marshall Nirenberg and Robert Holley for cracking the genetic code.

HARISH CHANDRA –Indian physicist and mathematician. His profound contributions to the representation theory of Lie groups, harmonic analysis, and related areas left researchers a rich legacy that continues today.

HOMI JEHANGIR BHABHA – Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha was a great scientist. He led India into atomic age. He is called the father of Indian Nuclear Science. He took a degree in Mechanical © Nitin Sangwan

Engineering in First Class from Cambridge, completed research work there and received his doctorate in 1935. Till 1939, he carried outstanding original research relating to cosmic radiation. He returned to India when the Second World War started. Dr. Bhabha joined the Indian Institute of Sciences at Bangalore as a Reader at the request of Dr. C.V. Raman. With his and J R D Tata’s efforts, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) was started in 1945, at Dr. Bhabha’s ancestral home. Bhabha became the first chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission set up in 1948. He was the one who laid the foundation

JAGDISH CHANDRA BOSE – Dr. Bose is famous all over the world as the inventor of Crescograph that can record even the millionth part of a millimeter of plant growth and movement. Dr. Bose proved through graphs taken by the Crescograph that plants have a circulatory system too. Crescograph has also shown that the upward movement of sap in plants is the activity of living cells. He developed the use of galena crystals for making receivers, both for short wavelength radio waves and for white and ultraviolet light. In 1895, two years before Marconi’s demonstration, Bose demonstrated wireless communication using radio waves, using them to ring a bell remotely and to explode some gunpowder. Many of the microwave components familiar today - waveguides, horn antennas, polarizers, dielectric lenses and prisms, and even semiconductor detectors of electromagnetic radiation - were invented and used by Bose in the last decade of the nineteenth century. He also suggested the existence of electromagnetic radiation from the Sun, which was confirmed in 1944. Bose then turned his attention to response phenomena in plants. He showed that not only animal but vegetable tissues, produce similar electric response under different kinds of stimuli – mechanical, thermal, electrical and chemical.

K CHANDRASEKHARAN –Komaravolu Chandrasekharan was the force behind the mathematics school at TIFR.

M K VAINU BAPPU – Indian astronomer, widely known for his discovery of a comet known as Bappu-Bok-Newkirk, after Bappu and his colleagues Bart Bok and Gordon Newkirk. He and Colin Wilson discovered a relationship between the luminosity of particular kinds of stars and some of their spectral characteristics. This important observation came to be known as the Bappu- Wilson effect and is used to determine the luminosity and distance of these kind of stars.

M VISWESARIAH – The modern India's foremost engineering genius. He had designed the wonderful water canal system for Deccan region. He had designed automatic water gates for regulating water in dams and reservoirs. In the year 1903, the water gates were first erected at Khadakvasla near Pune.

MEGHNAD SAHA – He was one of the leading physicists of 20th century. His theory of high- temperature ionization of elements and its application to stellar atmospheres, as expressed by the Saha equation, is fundamental to modern astrophysics; subsequent development of his ideas has led to increased knowledge of the pressure and temperature distributions of stellar atmospheres. He returned to the University of Calcutta in 1938 where he introduced nuclear physics into the post-graduate physics curriculum. In 1947 he established the Indian Institute of © Nitin Sangwan

Nuclear Physics (now known as the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics). Later in his life, Saha played an active role in the development of scientific institutions throughout India as well as in national economic planning involving technology.

P C MAHALANOBIS – He was a mathematician and statistician. He headed Indian Institute of Statistics, Calcutta. He led the institute to become one of the world’s top institutes. He was also the man behind the Second Plan which laid the foundation of heavy industry in India.

Acharya RAFULLA CHANDRA RAY - Prafulla Chandra believed that the progress of India could be achieved only by industrialization. He set up the first chemical factory in India, with very minimal resources, working from his home. In Prafulla Chandra Ray, the qualities of both a scientist and an industrial entrepreneur were combined and he can be thought of as the father of the Indian Pharmaceutical industry.

RAJ RAMANNA – Handpicked by the founder of India's nuclear program, Dr. Homi Bhabha, Dr. Raja Ramanna was a celebrated physicist and nuclear scientist that India had ever produced. A multifaceted personality, Dr. Raja Ramanna played the roles of a technologist, nuclear physicist, administrator, leader, musician, Sanskrit literature scholar, and philosophy researcher.

RAJ REDDY – Raj Reddy known for the work on large scale artificial intelligence systems.

S S ABHYANKAR – A great Mathematician and known for contribution to Algebraic Geometry

SALIM ALI – Bird watcher and biologist. He is called as ‘Birdman of India’ and helped development of ornithology as a discipline in India.

SATYENDERNATH BOSE–Satyendra Nath Bose was an outstanding Indian physicist. He is known for his work in Quantum Physics. He is famous for "Bose-Einstein Theory" and a kind of particle in atom has been named after his name as Boson. In 1921, Bose left Kolkata to become a Reader at the Dakha University. It was during this period that he wrote the famous paper on the statistics of photons. It was named Bose statistics after him and is now an integral part of physics. Paul Dirac, the legendary physicist, coined the term boson for particles obeying these statistics.

SHANTI SWAROOP BHATNAGAR –He is noted for his pioneering contribution in setting up of CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) which has now spawned in form of 39 laboratories. The Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (SSB) Prizes are awarded annually by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) after him for notable and outstanding research, applied or fundamental, in Biological, Chemical, Earth, Atmosphere, Ocean and Planetary, Engineering, Mathematical, Medical and Physical Sciences. The purpose of the prize is to recognize outstanding Indian work in science and technology.

SRINIVAS RAMANUJAM – He was born in a poor Brahmin family. He was a born mathematician prodigy. Lack of formal education made it very difficult for him to make both ends meet and he could not even graduate. With great difficulty he could get the job of a clerk at Madras Port © Nitin Sangwan

Trust which proved fortunate for him. Here he came in contact with many people who had training in mathematics. He found a book ‘Orders of Infinity’ written by G. H. Hardy. He wrote a letter to him in which he mentioned 120 theorems and formulae. Hardy was quick to recognize his genius and he responded by arranging for him a passage to London. Despite his lack of required qualification he was allowed to enroll at Trinity College from where he got his Bachelor of Science degree in less than two years. He formed a wonderful team with Hardy and J.E. Littlewood and made amazing contributions to the field of mathematics. He published many papers in London. He was the second Indian to be elected Fellow of the Royal Society of London and the first Indian to be elected Fellow of Trinity College. Some of his conclusions are still researched over and are found correct.

SUBRAMANIAM CHANDRASHEKHAR –He did commendable work in astrophysics, physics and applied mathematics. On the voyage to England, he developed the theory of white dwarf stars, showing that a star of mass greater than 1.45 times the mass of the sun could not become a white dwarf. This limit is now known as the Chandrasekhar limit. He was awarded the Nobel prize for Physics in 1983 for his theoretical work on the physical processes of importance to the structure of stars and their evolution. He was also nephew of C V Raman.

VENKATRAMAN RAMAKRISHNAN – Chemical scientist, he got Nobel Prize in 2009 for studies of the structure and function of the ribosome.

VIKAM SARABHAI – Dr Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai is another great genius of modem India. He was the main personality behind the launching of India’s first satellite Aryabhatta. He studied cosmic rays under the guidance of Dr. C.V. Raman and received his Ph.D. degree from Cambridge University. Dr. Sarabhai had a multifaceted personality. He was a great Industrializt. Today, there are many industries founded by him such as Sarabhai Chemicals, Sarabhai Glass, Sarabhai Geigy Ltd., Sara Bhai Merck Ltd. and many others. He also helped in saving crores of rupees for India by starting the mission of manufacturing military hardware and producing antibiotics and penicillin in India which were being imported from abroad. Dr. Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai established many institutes which are of international repute. Most notable among them are Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) which are considered world class for their management studies. He was the Chairman of the Indian National Commission for Space Research (INCOSPAR) and of the Atomic Energy Commission. He directed the setting up of Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) and is termed as father of Indian space program.

Indigenization of technology and developing new technology

Recent call of Indian PM ‘Sell anywhere, but make in India’.

HEALTH

Serum Institute of India, Rotavac – first vaccine in PPP,

COMPUTERS © Nitin Sangwan

C-Dac plays leading role

Finnacle of Infosys for banking solutions

ENERGY

JNNSM aims at developing domestic solar industry

DEFENSE

Establishment of DRDO – Insas Rifle, Arjun Tank

Defense Research and Development Laboratory – looks after the missile development program

HAL – Tejas aircraft

Offset clauses – reinvestment of around 25-55% of the total amount contracted.

Awareness in IT, Computers’ fields

NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION

It is a set of standards for smartphone and similar devices to establish radio communication with each other by touching them together or bringing them in close proximity say a few centimeters.

They are much simpler than Wi-Fi and are based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems by allowing a two way communication unlike smart cards which are one way. So, NFC enabled smartphones have potential of replacing credit cards or other type of smart cards. It can also be deployed in ticketing systems, rural banking, interactive and targeted advertisement, healthcare and in all such situations where sharing of photo, video, documents etc is required. An NFC enabled phone can become single point access to vehicles, home, office, ATM, shops and so on.

CLOUD COMPUTING

It is a new computing platform in which service delivery and storage is not done on the local machine/computer, but is done in an online manner. It is delivery of computing as a service rather than as a product. Cloud computing eliminates need for large local storage devices, complex programs, softwares and so on. This technology allows far much efficient computing through a centralized virtual storage, memory, processing and bandwidth. Services of cloud are accessed through internet and hence internet connection is necessary. It I said to have higher reliability, on demand access and hence reduced costs. In the era of hacking and espionage, security of data is one of the biggest issues related to cloud computing as the data users don’t have any physical control over the data.

COPMUTER MALWARES © Nitin Sangwan

Theyinclude computer viruses, computer worms, Trojan horses, most rootkits, spyware, dishonest adware and other malicious or unwanted software. Major of them are –

I. VIRUS– A computer virus is a computer program that can replicate itself and spread from one computer to another. Viruses are sometimes confused with worms and Trojan horses, which are technically different. A worm can exploit security vulnerabilities to spread itself automatically to other computers through networks, while a Trojan horse is a program that appears harmless but hides malicious functions. II. WORM– A computer worm is a standalone malware computer program that replicates itself in order to spread to other computers. Often, it uses a computer network to spread itself. Unlike a computer virus, it does not need to attach itself to an existing program. Worms almost always cause at least some harm to the network, even if only by consuming bandwidth, whereas viruses almost always corrupt or modify files on a targeted computer. III. TROJAN HORSE– A Trojan horse, or Trojan, is a standalone malicious file or program that does not attempt to inject itself into other files unlike a computer virus and often masquerades as a legitimate file or program. Trojan horses can make copies of themselves, steal information, or harm their host computer systems. A Trojan may give a hacker remote access to a targeted computer system. Once a Trojan has been installed on a targeted computer system, hackers may be given remote access to the computer allowing them to perform all kinds of operations. COMMUNICATION

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and WiMax

Bluetooth Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access Its range is least Its range is around 20 meters It is long range with range up to a few kms It was mainly devised for It is basically a LAN with no It is a part of 4G wireless personal usage and uses cables to create a local technology. same radio technology as Wi- network of communicating Fi, but of lower power devices

Awareness in Spacefield (and Missile Development)

EVOLUTION of INDIAN SPACE PROGRAM

Dr. Vikram Sarabhai is called the father of India's Space Program. India’s first satellite, Aryabhata, was built by ISRO and launched by the Soviet Union in 1975. Rohini, the first satellite to be placed in orbit by an Indian-made launch vehicle, SLV-3, was launched in 1980. Later it also used ASLV (augmented Satellite launch vehicle). © Nitin Sangwan

Success of Indian space program has been remarkable given the fact that it has worked in a highly restrictive technology sharing regime as space technology is dual use technology and it can also be used for defense purposes like missile development. Indian satellite system is one of the most cost-effective and reliable in the world.

Major agencies under Indian space program are –

I. ISRO, established in 1969 and located in Bangalore and its prime objective is to develop space technology II. Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota Island, Andhra Pradesh acts as the launching site for Indian rockets III. Vikram Sarabhai Center (earlier called as TERLS), Thumba, Tiruvanathpuram, Kerala and is the venue of development of satellite launch vehicles like PSLV, GSLV IV. Indian Remote Sensing Center, Hyderabad is an autonomous center in Hyderabad for monitoring of all remote sensing activity. V. ‘Antrix’ is the commercial arm of ISRO which was established in 1992. Indian space program has two main components – INSAT and IRS and it deploys two main launching vehicles, – PSLV for IRS series polar satellites and GSLV (and foreign satellite launch vehicles) for Geostationary Satellites like INSAT series.

After, success of Mangalyan and launch of Mars Mission, introduction of cryogenic engine as an indigenously developed engine is the latest feather in the cap of ISRO. Earlier, ISRO tried to purchase cryogenic technology from USSR, but after its disintegration, the plan ran into rough waters, but Russia agreed to supply a fix number of engines for Indian missions. Major advantages associated with a cryogenic engine capability are –

I. Cryogenic fuel has higher efficiency, thus, upper stages have lesser weight of fuel and hence payload can be increased significantly. II. This will help India put heavy satellites into geosynchronous orbit, thus improving communications capability, scientific capability etc. III. It will enhance capability of Indian launch vehicles both in terms of tonnage of payload and height of orbit. It will thus also open new avenues for journeys to other planets and asteroids. IV. It will cut dependency from foreign space launch vehicles for heavy payload. Currently India use service of Ariane and other launch vehicles. SATELLITE SYSTEMS – INSAT and IRS

INSAT IRS INSAT stands for the Indian National Satellite IRS stands for Indian Remote-sensing System Satellites INSAT is a series of multipurpose Geo- IRS are Polar orbital Sun-synchronous © Nitin Sangwan stationary satellites at a height of 36,000 km satellites at a height o 900 km. They have a as higher altitude gives such satellites larger fixed angle with respect to sun so, that coverage area. images of earth can be taken in similar brightness conditions. INSAT series is used in telecommunications, IRS is mainly used in resource monitoring like broadcasting, meteorology, radio and search mapping, monitoring and reconnaissance and rescue operations. Doordarshan, IMD, All operations. India now has 9 remote sensing India Radio are also stakeholders in it apart satellites in service. Examples are - the from department of communication. These Resourcesat-2, the Cartosat-1, 2 the RISAT-2 satellites use various transponders (C, S and (Radar Imaging Satellite-2) and the Oceansat- Ku series) for communication. It has 10 2. They make the IRS system the largest satellites in its network and this is largest in civilian remote-sensing satellite constellation the Asia Pacific region. Kalpana in the world. (meteorological), Edusat and INSAT series are some satellites.

Applications of Remote Sensing Satellites – Pre-harvest crop area and production estimation of major crops, Drought monitoring and assessment based on vegetation condition, flood risk zone mapping and flood damage assessment, mineral prospecting, forest resources surveys, wasteland identification, hydro-geomorphological maps for locating underground water resources for drilling well. They are also used for defense and strategic applications an can take images of defense installments and troops movement. Googlemaps is a creation of similar remote sensing satellites.

LAUNCH VEHICLES SYSTEMS – PSLV and GSLV

Indian satellite launch vehicles started their journey from Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV) series in 1979 which was replaced by Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) series in late 1980s. First PSLV was launched in 1993 and it later replaced ASLV.

PSLV development was significant for India from both space and defense perspective as it also paved way for ICBM capabilities for India. It also made India a competitor in global commercial launch vehicle market as well. It made India also capable of launching spy satellites as well. First launch of GSLV was made in 2001 and it is now planned to be used along with PSLV.

GSLV has also given ICBM status to India. It has put India into elite club of countries which have capability of putting satellites into geostationary orbit. India can now dispatch bigger, and more advanced spacecraft in the years to come.

PSLV GSLV PSLV can only lift slightly over a ton of GSLV has the capability to lift greater loads into payload to GTO (Geostationary Transfer space. GSLV is capable of lifting more than double Orbit). that with a rated capacity of 2 to 2.5 tons. It doesn’t use cryogenic engine. One of the main reasons why the GSLV has such an increased load is its utilization of a cryogenic rocket engine (uses fuel and oxidizer in super cooled state) for its last stage which provides © Nitin Sangwan

additional thrust. The PSLV has 4 stages that alternate GSLV has 3 stages with the only the first stage between solid and liquid fuels. having solid fuel. It has a major record of success and it is It is recently developed as India had not the main launcher for Indian missions till developed cryogenic capabilities. Its success rate date, including Chnadrayan and in past was not very encouraging as compared to Mangalyan. Till now, out of 7 flights of PSLV. GSLV Mark 3 is the latest indigenously GSLV only 2 had been total successes. This developed cryogenic engine powered lunching is abysmal when compared to 23 vehicle with capacity of upto 4 tonnes. consecutive successful flights of PSLV.

RECENT NEWS and LATEST DEVELOPMENTS in INDIAN SATELLITE PROGRAM

I. Astrosat – It is the first dedicated astronomy satellite launched in 2012. II. Gagan – It is an advanced navigation satellite for the navigation of airplanes. India became the fourth country in the world after U.S., Europe and Japan to launch an advanced navigation system. III. India has also successfully conducted ‘Space Recovery Experiment’ IV. Megha Tropiques was a satellite launched with French support. France has emerged a big partner of India in space. V. Mars Orbiter Mission VI. IRNSS or Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System is a cluster of satellites which will work as a localized GPS system and will greatly reduce Indian dependency on foreign GPS systems. USA, European Union (Galelio) and Russia (GLONASS) have their own GPS systems, China is also developing its own named ‘Beidou/Compass’. Such a system is important for having a secured navigation especially in case of security and strategic issues. It will provide information even upto 1000 km beyond India borders. It will currently have 7 satellites which can be expanded if India wants to expand the range of the system. Till now, November 2014, 3 satellites have been launched. VII. GSAT 7 or INSAT 4F – it is thefirst exclusive military satellite launched by India in August 2014. It will be exclusively used bynavy for communication, intelligence gathering and maritime security. VIII. PSLV C22 – It launched for the first time an Indian satellite at night. Further, it was also special because, for the first time put a satellite in ‘Sub Geosynchronous transfer orbit’ carrying India’s first navigational satellite – IRNSS-1A. IX. Human Spaceflight – India is likely to send first human in space in 2015. Before that India has successfully conducted Space Capsule Recovery Experiment in 2007. A simulation center has been setup in Bangalore for the same. X. Chandrayan 2 is another ambitious project in line which was earlier planned with © Nitin Sangwan

Russian support, but now India is likely to alone and expected to launch it in 2017. It will also include a lunar rover this time apart from a lunar orbiter. XI. India is also developing a reusable multiple entry vehicle which will help in reducing the costs of space flights considerably. MISSILE PROGRAM

The Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) was an Indian Ministry of Defense program between the early 1980s and 2007 for the development of a comprehensive range of missiles from short range to long range. It included the development of multiple range and multiple capability missiles. Missiles developed by it are Aakash, Nag, Agni, Prithvi etc. Agni 3 was the last missile built under this program. Agni series missiles were devolped by DRDO, but are produced by Bharat Dynamics Ltd.

RECENT NEWS and LATEST DEVELOPMENTS regarding MISSILE DEVELOPMENT and DEFENSE

I. Agni V – It is the latest missile that was added by India. It is an Inter Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) which has range of around 5,000 km. It is India’s first ICBM and it now covers whole of China in India’s reach. It is a 3 stage solid propellant Ballistic Missile. It is a MIRV – multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle, allowing a single missile. II. Pradyuman Missile Interceptor – Prithvi Air Defense Missile System has been name as Pradyuman Ballistic missile interceptor. III. Brahmos – It is a supersonic cruise missile (cruise missiles are guided missiles powered by jet engines and flying on a very low altitude) jointly developed by India and Russia. It is the only supersonic cruise missile in the world and can be fired from air, land or sea with 300 kg payload and a distance of 299 km. IV. Nirbhya – This is a sub-sonic missile first tested in 2013 with a range of 1000 km, however first successful test was done only in 2014. It is different from other missiles in sense that it is a stealth missile and it flies at low altitude of just a few meters at tree top level. Nirbhay can also carry nuclear warhead along it. It can also hover over a target for a few minutes and is not detectable by radar for its low altitude flying capability. It complete a crucial missing space in the missile capabilities of India as Brahmos is only short rrange. V. Sudarshan – It is India’s first Laser guided bomb. VI. ASTRA – Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile having high Single Shot Kill Probability (SSKP), and is very reliable. It is an all aspect, all weather missile with active Radar terminal guidance. It has a target range of 60 Kilometers. This can also have mid- course guidance for mid-course correction in case of an electronic target. After completion of all development trials, Astra will be eventually integrated with combat © Nitin Sangwan

fighter aircraft Sukhoi-30, MIG-29 and the light combat aircraft- Tejas. VII. K-15 or Sagarika – It is new underwater missile that India test fired successfully recently in February 2013. It is an underwater, submarine launched version of Shaurya Missile and will have range of 700 km and is capable of carrying nuclear warhead. It has also paved way for – K-4 – new missile of India with range 3,000 km. Awareness in Nanotechnology field

Nanotechnology is the study of manipulating matter on an atomic and molecular scale (10–9 meter on scale). Nanotechnology is very diverse, ranging from extensions of conventional device physics to completely new approaches based upon molecular self-assembly, from developing new materials with dimensions on the nanoscale to direct control of matter on the atomic scale. Trousers and socks have been infused with nanotechnology so that they will last longer and keep people cool in the summer. Cars are being manufactured with nano materials so they may need fewer metals and less fuel to operate in the future. Video game consoles and personal computers may become cheaper, faster, and contain more memory thanks to nanotechnology.Some of the common nano-technologies are –

I. Computing – It will enable creation of new generation of computers which will have huge storage capacity and unmatched speed that too in a very small space. II. Clothing – Self cleaning clothes have been made which are coated with titanium oxide nano- crystals which break down food and dirt in sunlight. III. Medical–Many nano-materials are seen as potential alternative to chemotherapy for cancer treatment. Nano-robots can be employed for the targeted attack on cancerous cells. Nanotechnology-on-a-chip is one more dimension of lab-on-a-chip technology. Gold nanoparticles tagged with short segments of DNA can be used for detection of genetic sequence in a sample. IV. Environment – Microscopic nano-robots can be used to sweep oceans, disassembling pollutants to protect and preserve marine environment. V. Automobile – nano-materials are used to built stronger and lighter automotive parts. VI. Carbon Nano Tubes – Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are allotropes of carbon with a cylindrical nanostructure with unusually high length to diameter ratios. Nanotubes are members of the fullerene structural family. Carbon nanotubes are the strongest and stiffest materials yet discovered in terms of tensile strength and elastic modulus respectively. All nanotubes are expected to be very good thermal and electric conductors along the tube, but good insulators laterally to the tube axis. Their applications include in automobile, material science, carbon fibers etc. VII. Graphene – It is a carbon allotrope, known to be one of strongest structures ever produced. It is used in electronics industry for its superconductor like and stronger than steel like property. IIT M also developed its application in water filtering. © Nitin Sangwan

There are also some concerns over the use of nanotechnology, like –

I. Environmental hazards – nano materials are also toxic in nature as smaller particles are difficult to control in their usage and they can pollute ground water etc. II. Health hazards – nano particles can penetrate biological cells and can have unforeseen health hazaers for both animals and human beings. For example, Titanium Oxide can get into human food chain and cause quicker ageing of cells. III. Social hazards – untraceable weapons of mass destruction can be made from using nano- technology IV. Nano-waste – most of the nano-particles are not found in nature and are human made, their size makes them difficult to control. INDIA and NANO TECHNOLOGY

National Nanotechnology Policy was formulated by a group headed by Prof C N R Rao and $250 million was allocated for the research on nanotechnology.

Nano Mission is a Gov. of India initiative under the Department of Science and Technology It is guided by the Nano Mission Council which is headed by prof CNR Rao

Two center of excellence have been setup in Mumbai and Bangalore.

A national level program ‘Nano-science and Technology Initative’ has also been launched focused at overall research and development and in nano-science with vigour so that India can become a significant player in the area. 100 projects in various fields ranging from nano- ceramics, nano-particles, nano-tudes etc have been launched under this.

Awareness in Bio-Technologyfield

Biotechnology refers to any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use. Discovery of DNA in 1950s and discovery of recombinant DNA technique (in which sections of one DNA are transplanted into another) in 1970s, which became the basis of genetic engineering, became the bedrock of the ‘genetic engineering’. Modern use of similar terms includes genetic engineering as well as cell and tissue culture technologies. Various uses of biotechnology are –

I. Healthcare – Earliest example would be like discovery of Penicillin. Tissue culture, cloning, customized drugs to suit genetic makeup of an individual, stem cell application, molecular diagnosis devices, make drugs cheaper, gene therapy (in which defective genes are replaced by healthy genes which is especially useful for future curing of diseases like AIDS and Cancer) and so on. II. Agriculture – to increase crop yield, reduce vulnerability of crops from salinity, pests, draught etc, to increase nutritious value, as in case of golden rice (fortified with vitamin A and are also © Nitin Sangwan

planning to fortify it with iron as well to combat anemia), reduce dependence on pesticides, III. Animal Biotechnology–used in breeding programs, artificial insemination, hybrids, animal cloning etc. IV. Industrial uses – bioplastics, biodiesel, biocatalysts, enzymes V. Environmental uses – bioremediation for cleaning of polluted water. Bioremediation uses technologies Concerns and challenges over use of biotechnology –

I. Use of biotechnology is also rife with ethical issues and hazards as well. Cloning, stem cells research, genetic modification are mired with ethical issues like intervention into natural scheme of things, man playing god etc. II. Introduction of LMOs into open may also disturb ecological balance in unforeseen manner as commutative impact of such LMOs is not fully studied yet. III. Genetic engineering may also lead to undesired mutations. There are other issues like that of ‘designer babies’ and ‘eugenics’ which might be misused by the elite strata of society to develop superior offspring. Recent steps taken by India in the field of biotechnology –

I. Development of Biotech clusters in Faridabad and Bengaluru. II. Nascent agri-biotech cluster in Mohali to be scaled up. In addition, two new clusters, in Pune and Kolkata to be established. RECOMBINANT DNA

Recombinant DNA (rDNA) molecules are DNA sequences that result from the use of laboratory methods (molecular cloning) to bring together genetic material from multiple sources, creating sequences that would not otherwise be found in biological organisms. Recombinant DNA is possible because DNA molecules from all organisms share the same chemical structure; they differ only in the sequence of DNA material within that identical overall structure. Recombinant DNA is widely used in biotechnology, medicine and research. Recombinant DNA is used to identify, map and sequence genes, and to determine their function. In its medical applications it can be used to invent new drugs and change the hormonal, genetic functions in humans. For example – Recombinant insulin has almost completely replaced insulin obtained from animal sources.

GENTIC ENGINEERING

It is the direct human manipulation of an organism’s genome using modern DNA technology i.e. recombinant DNA technology. Such organisms which are produced using this technology are called transgenic or genetically modified organisms. GM foods, GM crops etc fall under his category. If genetic material from other species is added to the host, it is called transgenic and if material of the same species is added to the host, then it is called cisgenic. Example of © Nitin Sangwan

transgenic organism is Bt Cotton in which a bacillus is used on a host plant species.

GENE PATENTING and MYRIAD GENETICS CASE, USA

Myriad genetics has discovered that two genes – BRCA1 and BRCA2 which are behind breast cancer in women to a large extent. It patented the manner in which genes could be detected. The U.S. Supreme Court had revoked the patent awarded to the company on the grounds that isolation of the DNA from human body alone does not amount to innovation and hence was not patentable. The isolated genes are in no way different from what are produced in nature. SC of USA held that patent of genes will amount to patenting of everything that occurs naturally. Since genes were already there, patent claim is spurious. A year after the US Supreme Court’s landmark decision on breast cancer BRCA1 and BRCA2 human DNA patent case that went against the interests of Myriad Genetics, the Australian Federal Court, on September 5 2014, upheld the patents for the mutant BRCA1 human DNA.

TRANSGENETIC ORGANISMS or GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS

Transgenesis is a process in which foreign genes are inserted into an animal's or plant’s DNA to alter its certain characteristics. For example – color, traits, resistant against certain diseases or climatic conditions etc. Genetically modified crops are such an example. These techniques, generally known as recombinant DNA technology, use DNA molecules from different sources, which are combined into one molecule to create a new set of genes. Transgenetic vs hybrid – Hybrids are produced through sexual reproduction between sexually compatible parents whereas transgenic plants are created by transferring the specific genetic material governing a particular trait from non-compatible organism for example in Bt cotton the resistance for fruit borer insect has been transferred from a bacteria.

GENETICALLY MODIFIED CROPS – GM CROPS

Genetically modified crops are claimed to have the following advantages like – Draught resistant, better resistance against pests, less need for chemical insecticides, higher yields and so on. With these advantages they were pegged as a solution of the food shortage problem of the world.

Benefits of GM crops –

I. Reduce pesticides consumption II. GM crops are also developed for draught and cold resistance also III. Food security for the nation IV. Increased farmers’ income V. India has become cotton exporting country thanks to Bt Cotton – per hectare yield has increased from 191 kg to 490 kg. Now 93% farmers grow Bt Cotton Criticism and apprehensions over use of GM Crops – © Nitin Sangwan

I. Critics are saying they are not yielding the desired results and are in fact resulting in more or less higher use of pesticides and increase in incidents of pests. II. Further they are claimed to have given birth to so called – Super Weeds. III. It is also a moot point that the GM crops seed are provided by a few big corporations only and it has lead to monopoly of these firms. Monsanto, Dupont and Syngenta, the world's three largest GM companies, now control nearly 70 per cent of global seed sales. Monopoly of multinationals in field of agriculture is seen as heralding an era of ‘bioslavery’. IV. One big risk is that traditional crops also stand risk of being affected by GM crops by process of pollination which cannot be controlled in open fields. It will affect biodiversity greatly and is hazardous from sustainability point of view. V. There is still lack of regulatory mechanism in India and BRAI Bill is also pending and which is also controversial India has the world’s fourth largest area under GM crops India’s entire area under GM crops comprises only one crop – Bt Cotton, trials for others is on hold, Bt Brinjal was widely expected to go on trials, but did not.

Center has recently made labeling of GM foods mandatory from January 2013. Recently Ministry of Food made it mandatory for every GM product to highlight GM mark to distinguish it from Non-GM food. (India doesn’t produce any GM food, but there are some imports).

Earlier environmental minster had put a moratorium on field trials till an adequate regulatory mechanism is in place. SC appointed Technical Expert Committee also made similar observations. TEC final report calls for a moratorium until a regulatory framework is not in place. TEC final report has also called GM crops should not be tested in open fields.

A recent Standing Committee report on genetically modified (GM) crops found shortcomings in the regulatory framework for such crops. Given the inadequacy of the regulatory framework, the Standing Committee recommended that all research and development activities on transgenic crops be carried out only in containment (in laboratories) and that ongoing field trials in all states be discontinued.

Recently, GEAC or Genetic Engineering Approval Committee– the primary body to approve GM trials – approved field trials of 21 new crops in a controlled environment of even staple crops like – Wheat, Rice etc. But the field trials were soon halted again after protests from various quarters.

In wake of the current inadequacies and uncertainities about regulated use of GM crops, a new BRAI Bill (Bio Regulatory Authority of India) is in offing which will be a single window clearance for all single window clearance for the genetically modified crops in the country. Its aim is to promote the safe use of modern biotechnology by enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of regulatory procedures. India has signed UN Convention on Biodiversity and Cartagena Protocol © Nitin Sangwan

on biosafety which calls for a regulatory authority which will replace the existing mechanism i.e GEAC. Field trials for certain organisms or products cannot be conducted unless the Authority permits them as aiding the development of modern biotechnology such as genetically engineered plants, animals used in food or any animal clones that can be applied in agriculture, fisheries or food products. The Bill will not apply to the clinical trials of drugs, under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and food or food additives or any material under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

BIOSENSORS

They are small devices which utilize biological reactions for detecting a stimulus. For example, an enzyme may be integrated into an electrode. Such sensors have advantage over traditional sensors that they can be used for much more applications that traditional sensors, with higher accuracy and speed. They are also likely to be cheaper as expensive materials will not be used in them. They can be used in variety of applications like – monitoring of glucose level in patients, determining level of bleeding and loss of vital fluids during an accident etc, environmental monitoring, drug discovery, pathogen and contamination detection in food etc.

BIO-PLASTICS

They are plastic like substances that are made from natural materials like Starch, gelatin, keratin etc and are easily biodegradable, but have similar strength and durability as plastics.

STEM CELL

Stem cells are biological cells found in all multi-cellular organisms that can divide (through mitosis) and differentiate into diverse specialized cell types and can self-renew to produce more stem cells. In mammals, there are two broad types of stem cells –

I. Adult stem cells, which are found in various tissues. In adult organisms, stem cells and progenitor cells act as a repair system for the body, replenishing adult tissues. Unlike embryonic cells which can take shape of all other types of cell, adult stem cells have limited differentiating capabilities. Embryonic stem cells can also be grown easily using tissue culture, but adult stem cells are rare in mature tissues, so isolating them from an adult tissue is challenging and methods to expand their numbers using tissue culture methods have still not been worked out to satisfaction. One advantage of adult stem cells, if developed, is that they have less susceptibility to rejection by the body of patient as they are taken from that body itself. Further, there are also no ethical issues in using these adult somatic cells as they are taken from body of patient himself with consent and doesn’t lead to ethical issues like embryo destruction. II. Embryonic stem cells, which are isolated from the inner cell mass of blastocysts. However, from point of view of curing diseases, embryonic stem cells are more © Nitin Sangwan

important. In a developing embryo, stem cells can differentiate into all the specialized cells (these are called pluripotent cells), but also maintain the normal turnover of regenerative organs, such as blood, skin, or intestinal tissues. The unique ability of embryonic stem cells to grow into almost any tissue in the body has led scientists to investigate whether they can regenerate damaged and diseased organs. It is controversial because embryos are destroyed after the stem cell is used. More recently umbilical cord and blood has been seen as an alternative to embryo. Stem cells are distinguished from other cell types by two important characteristics.

I. First, they are unspecialized cells capable of renewing themselves through cell division, sometimes after long periods of inactivity. II. Second, under certain physiologic or experimental conditions, they can be induced to become tissue- or organ-specific cells with special functions. In some organs, such as the gut and bone marrow, stem cells regularly divide to repair and replace worn out or damaged tissues. Difficulties and Challenges in use of stem cells –

I. Stem Cells may also mutate into tumors II. They also suffer from similar compatibility issues as of the donor transplant Stem cell and umbilical cord blood preservation – Indian government does not approve any of the therapies which employ human embryonic cells. Indian Council of Medical Research has not recognized any stem cell application except for Bone Marrow Transplantation.

In India, AIIMS had successfully used this technology to cure cardiac patients. National Center for Biological Sciences Bangalore, Reliance Life Group are some other agencies involved in such research.

IPS CELLS or INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS

Stem cells are basically of two types –

I. Embryonic Stem Cells – These are also called pluripotent stem cells because they can ‘differentiate’ themselves and may evolve into any part of the body. However, most of the countries discourage their use due to ethical issues involved. II. Adult Somatic Stem Cells – They are taken from adult human beings from certain specific parts like bone marrow etc. However unlike Embryonic cells, they are not pluripotent. They evolve into only that part of body from where they are taken from. IP Cells or Induced Pluripotent Cells are a new breakthrough in this field and were first reported in 2007. IPS Cells are a type of pluripotent stem cell artificially derived from a non-pluripotent cell – typically an adult somatic cell – by inducing a "forced" expression of specific genes. Induced pluripotent stem cells are similar to natural pluripotent stem cells, such as embryonic © Nitin Sangwan

stem (ES) cells. Thus they will do away with the controversial embryonic stem cell methods to regenerate new body parts.

THERAPEUTIC CLONING

It is a specific type of cloning in which stem cells from the cloned human embryo to produce human organs, tissues etc for curative purposes. It is allowed in UK and a few other countries.

Intellectual Property Rights and Related Issues

Intellectual property covers a range of things related to human creativity. It primarily includes inventions, innovations, creative art works, literature, software, movies, songs etc. There are some formal ways of registering them – through patents, trademarks and copyrights. While patents are registered for scientific inventions which have practical utility, Copyright are for creative works which don’t have any practical application like art, cinema, songs, book etc.

India is also a member of WIPO – World Intellectual Property Organization – a specialized body of UN dealing with IPR issues. WIPO also acts as an arbitration body as well if the affected parties request it. It administers following international treaties on copyright and related rights –

I. Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works II. Geneva Convention for the Protection o Producers of Phonograms III. Rome Convention for the Protection of Performers, Producers of Phonograms and Broadcasting Organization IV. WIPO Copyright Treaty COPYRIGHTS

The Indian Copyright Act, 1957 is the key legislation that protects copyrights. India is a signatory to Berne Convention and in all countries where the Berne Convention standards apply, copyright is automatic, and need not be obtained through official registration with any government office.

PATENTS

Patents in India are guided by the Indian Patent Act, 1970. The Act underwent several amendment post India joined WTO in 1995 and the resultant Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). TRIPS also stipulate that patents should be available in WTO member states for any invention, in all fields of technology with minimum protection of 20 years. Last and most significant amendment was made in 2005 which guides current patent regime in India. Major features of 2005 amendment were –

I. Before 2005 amendments, two areas – Drugs and Food – were excluded from product patent category in India and were subjected to only process patents to safeguard public interest. Thus, the amendment made way for product patent. © Nitin Sangwan

II. Secondly, it significantly altered the definition of what constitutes a patent. TRIPS has certain flexibilities under their rules. One of them is it is left over individual governments to decide what constitutes – novel, Inventive step and industrial application (these are 3 main pre-requisites that decide the patentability of a new invention, drug, item etc). Section 3 of the Act deals with this. It has ensured that there are no frivolous applications as it has put stringent criteria for granting a patent which aim at avoiding ‘Evergreening’ India has changed its patent law to allow for ‘product patents’ in case of chemicals and medicines to confirm the law with TRIPS.

ISSUES RELATED to IPR

I. Since patents restrict the usage of a product – which generally gives a monopoly to the patent holder for certain period, which is 20 years in most cases – it creates issues like monopolistic pricing which are usually exorbitant as was highlighted in Compulsory Licensing Case of Nexavar drug of Bayer Ltd. II. Another issue is apparent patent violation when similar formulation (in case of drugs) or similar technologies (in scientific applications like electronics) are used. Due to incremental innovation, making a distinction is sometimes difficult. III. Global nature of applications and separate registration in every country also pose a challenge. Some Indian agro-products like Basmati Rice, Turmeric etc were purportedly attempted for a patent in US Patent office. Government of India has recently launched Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) to prevent patent of traditional knowledge in other parts of world. Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing also provides for sharing of benefits with local population from where local plants etc are taken. IV. Large commercial implications of innovations make patent lawsuits a big business. Recent tussle between Samsung and Apple over various patents related to mobile technology is a case in point. V. Lack of specialized knowledge with judges also makes decision making a difficult task for adjudicating authorities. SC of India has expressed this view that it cannot possess all technical and specialized knowledge in such cases. VI. Copyright issues of books have similar complications as profitability issues arise there also. VII. Similarly, software piracy, which is also a copyright issue, is another challenge especially in developing countries. In India, as per an estimate by Microsoft, more than 85% softwares are pirated. It creates security hazards for the users and revenue losses to the companies. Similar is the issue of piracy of movies and songs. Deep internet penetration and low awareness among users is leading to such copyright violations at mass scale. © Nitin Sangwan

TRIPS and INDIAN PHARMA

Ten years ago in 2001, in Doha Declaration of WTO talks it was agreed that TRIPS will have flexibilities in case of public health. This was the first and till date the only amendment to WTO rules.

India is pioneer around the world in production of low cost life saving drugs. It today produces more than 1/3rd of drugs in the world. Generic drugs for AIDS produced in India costs as much as 99% cheaper at $100 for a year’s supply.

There are 2 recent events that has put India at the center stage of the drug patenting –

I. Novertis Case – Novertis (global drug giant) in 2006 appealed in Indian patent office for patent of one of its drugs – Glivec (generic name Imatinib) – for Leukemia. However it was rejected for it was not considered a ‘novel’ drug per se. Intellectual Property Appellate Board has already rejected its claim after Indian Patent granting authorities refused to grant it patent. Natco – a generic manufacturer – and Cancer Patient Aid Association had opposed Novartis. Supreme Court also turned down the petition of Novartis in 2013. It is seen in light of preventing the evergreening of the drugs and patents.

II. Compulsory Licencing – (2012) The CL, though, is a legitimate patent-override option that is permitted under the World Trade Organization’s TRIPs (trade related intellectual property rights) regime, provided certain conditions are met. In a landmark decision, the Controller General of Patents allowed an Indian firm – Natco - to manufacture an anti cancer drug which was patented by Bayer (Nexavar drug) of generic name – Sorafenib Tosaylate. The reason why Natco (it applied for CL) was granted CL was the failure of Bayer to comply with the guidelines under Section 84 viz – Bayer has been accused of highly overpricing the drug (around Rs3 Lakh for a month’s supply); Not making it available in enough quantities (making it available to only 2% of the affected patients only).

TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE DIGITAL LIBRARY

In the field of traditional medicine, India was losing to foreign patents every year and thousands of traditional methods and recopies were patented every year by foreign companies. This was largely due to the fact that – Indian languages in which traditional knowledge was enshrined was incomprehensible to the foreign nationals while filing patents to check for existing bodies of knowledge.

TKDL is a response to avoid wrongful patenting of the traditional Indian medicines and traditional knowledge. It aims at preventing bio-piracy and unethical patenting. © Nitin Sangwan

Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) is a collaborative project among –

 Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)  Ministry of Science and Technology  Department of AYUSH (Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy)  Ministry of Health and Family Welfare TKDL has scientifically converted and structured the India’s traditional knowledge available in 148 ancient books on Indian Systems of Medicine, into five international languages, namely, English, Japanese, French, German and Spanish. Patent Offices in these and other countries are contacted from time to time and patent lists are evaluated to prevent wrongful registration of patents.

RECENT NEWS

I. Section 3(d) of Indian Patent Act is an important provision in which aims at preventing evergreening of patents and to ensure availability of essential medicines to patients by balancing interests of companies and patients. It lays down that for granting of a new patent, criteria like ‘novelty’ and ‘efficacy’ are to be considered. In Novartis case, SC upheld the judgement of Patent Office that Gilvec should not be given patent as it was just a tinkering over existing salts. *Recent News

Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment Gamma Ray Telescope, Hanle, Laddakh – It is the highest Gamma ray telescope in the world which is under construction and it will become operational in 2016 and it is also the biggest in northern hemisphere and second biggest in the world.

Dendroid – It is a malicious virus which mainly affects Android based systems.

© Nitin Sangwan

INTERNAL SECURITY and EXTREMISM

Linkages between development and spread of extremism.

CHALLENGES in NORTH EAST and SEPERATISM

TERRORISM in KASHMIR and DISSATISFACTION AMONG THE PEOPLE

NAXALISM

While violence seems to be the biggest challenge in the Naxal areas. Land related factors, displacement and forced evictions, livelihood related causes, illegal mining, deprivation of forest rights, corruption and poor provision/non-provision of essential public services are the core issues which aggravated the problem.

Causes –

 Land alienation  Exploitation of tribals  Forest rights  Ideological impact – disillusioned youth being attracted to left wing extremism, charm of gun and forest life and  Failure of political system to inspire any confidence among the down-trodden. Steps to address developmental issues in Naxal areas –

I. 14 Point Formula – In 2006, government launched a 14 Point Formula to tackle Naxal Menace. Its major highlights were –  Land reforms on a priority basis  Political parties asked to strengthen base in Naxal-affected areas – So that local youth can be weaned away from extremist activities  No peace talks with Naxal groups unless they agree to give up violence II. ARC2 in its report – ‘Capacity building through Conflict resolution’ emphasized that –  Formation of trained special task forces on the pattern of the Greyhounds in Andhra Pradesh should be an important element of the strategy to build capacity in the police machinery for tackling left extremism.  Curb illegal mining in these areas.  Effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Rights) Act, 2006  Performance of the States in amending their Panchayati Raj Acts and other regulations to bring them in line with the provisions of the Panchayats (Extension © Nitin Sangwan

to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) and in implementing these provisions may be monitored and incentivised by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj.  Introduce measures to encourage formation of ‘Self Help Groups’ (SHGs) to improve access to credit and marketing and empower the disadvantaged.  Awareness campaigns should be organised in order to make the tribal population aware of the provisions of PESA and the 73rd amendment  Rail connectivity should be improved in the region on a priority basis. III. 9-point action plan to develop Naxal-affected areas, 2013 –  The government had decided to expedite the ―recognition of forest rights, as well as review the definition of backward districts under the Integrated Action Plan/Backward Region Grant Fund (BRGF) as part of the action plan.  To improve the communication infrastructure Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will install 2199 low cost mobile towers in those areas.  Large residential schools with capacity of 1000-2000 students will be opened.  Environmental Laws will be relaxed or some time to implement Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidyutikaran Yojna.  The Mobile Health Units will address the LWE (Left Wing Extremism) districts ― endemically affected‖ by malaria.  To address the absence of post offices and banks in the LWE affected areas, there has been ―a proposal to open post offices in 12,898 gram panchayats in 82 identified LWE affected districts.‖ IV. Integrated Action Plan – The plan is for 60 selected Naxal affected districts in India’s backward and tribal regions – Orissa will have maximum number of district under this plan. The IAP would be an additional Central assistance scheme on a 100 percent grant basis. It is aimed at quick resolution of problems concerning health care, drinking water, education and roads. Each of the 60 districts will be given a block grant of Rs 30 Crores in 2011-12. Schemes will be decided by a committee, headed by the District Collector, The Superintendent of Police and the District Forest Officer will be its members. (However, its working has been resented by many who want funds to be at disposal of the local bodies). V. Roshini – A new skill development initiative launched in 24 of the most critically affected districts under Naxalism. Training will be provided in a public-private partnership mode and at least half of the trained will be women. Trainees will be in the age group of 30-35. The only way forward is to build infrastructure and add to the manpower. Teachers, nurses, doctors should want to go there. © Nitin Sangwan

The Andhra Model – It used a multi-pronged strategy and effectively pushed Naxals on the brink. It involved security response in form of specialized and dedicated police force called the Greyhounds. They are an elite commando force in Andhra Pradesh created to combat left wing extremists. Only the best policemen make it to the Greyhound squad, which is one of the highest paid in the country. Strengthening the intelligence gathering and intelligence based operations. Efforts were made to infiltrate the Maoist hierarchy. There was also a political response as well. The political leadership was initially not sensitive enough to the impending Naxalite challenge. This changed and a consensus had emerged among the political formations by about 1996-97 that the rebels had to be taken headlong, in all possible ways. Apart from these counter-measures, developmental activities were also vigorously pursued. Programs like – Remote Areas Development Program and Remote and Interior Areas Development Program were launched. It was also clubbed with an effective surrender and rehabilitation policy.

The Saranda Model – The model was used by Jharkhand government in forests of Saranda in Jharkhand. It uses flushing out rebels holed up in dense forests. It is the first systematic experiment in combining a security-oriented and development-focussed approach in Maoist- affected areas on a large-scale. In July-August 2011, the CRPF and the state police jointly “liberated” this area of West Singbhum district of Jharkhand from 11 years of Maoist control and domination. Joint operations by the neighboring Orissa police were also used to check the escape of Maoist in other areas as well. Once, Maoists were flushed out, the area was put high on developmental priority and extensive developmental activities were carried out to sustain the gains made by the CRPF. The approach of Ssaranda Model is four-pronged – development, security, political activity and also some sense of justice and dignity, because there is an accumulated sense of injustice. Under the Saranda Action Plan. All the 7,000 families will be given cycles, solar lantern and radios apart from homes under the Indira Aawas Yojana (apart from laying 140 km of roads). 56 villages in the Saranda forest are developed as model villages. Implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, effective implementation of MNREGS, launch of five mobile health units as a part of corporate social responsibility by SAIL, are other elements of Saranda plan. Apart from this, women self help groups were also used.

Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security

External state actors are like – ISI, Army, Governments

Non State Actors are like – International NGOs, Terrorist groups, Pressure groups, Media, Social Media, Criminals like drug traffickers

Emerging Threats –

 Global cooperation amongst terrorist networks – Terrorist networks have taken advantage of the communications revolution to develop transnational links, making terrorism a global threat.

 The existence of a large migrant population and porous borders in an increasingly multi-cultural world has increased sleeper cells. Terrorists are using money laundering and banking © Nitin Sangwan

networks for movement of money across borders fund their activities easily.

 Crime syndicates like Dawood also pose a threat as they are joining hands with terrorist outfits.

 Al-Queda has recently announced that it will spread its wings in South Asia as well and India is also on its map.

Strategy to Counter Terrorism

 Socio-economic development – Much of the discourse has been based on the premise that security can be achieved by ensuring protection of life and property for all. However, it needs to be understood that socio-economic development has to go hand-in hand. So eradication of poverty is essential for tackling terrorism. Vulnerable sections should not fall prey to the propaganda of terrorists.

 Political consensus – Political parties must arrive at a national consensus on the need for the broad contours of the anti-terror strategy. Parties should rise above their sectarian and petty electoral compulsions.

 Respect for rule of law – Governmental agencies must not be allowed to transgress law even in dealing with critical situations since it only creates more ill will.

 Effective legislations and interstate coordination

 Building capacity – The capacity building exercise should extend to the intelligence gathering machinery, security agencies, civil administration and the society at large.

 Proactive approach – Any form of extremism with faith in a dogma ending in violence has the potential of escalating from hate campaign, violent hooliganism and murders of perceived enemies to terrorist activities.

 Involving Civil Society and Media in Combating Terrorism

Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security

Cyber-terrorism is the use of Internet based attacks in terrorist activities, including acts of deliberate, large-scale disruption of computer networks, especially of personal computers attached to the Internet, by the means of tools such as computer viruses, worms and other malware including phising, hacking etc.

Cyber security is the new dimension to security apart from land, water and air security. It has both internal as well as external dimensions. Externally, it involves compromising of communication networks, websites and financial system of one country by external elements. It can also be used to © Nitin Sangwan spread mis-information, rouse communal sentiments and disturb the social harmony as it happened in the case of recent Assam violence.

India already has 800 million active mobile subscribers and 160 million other Internet users of which nearly half are on social media. India targets 600 million broadband connections and 100% teledensity by 2020.

The ICT sector has grown at an annual compounded rate of 33% over the last decade and the contribution of IT and ITES industry to GDP increased from 5.2% in 2006-7 to 6.4% in 2010-11.

Mechanisms that are in place are to combat issues of cyber security and cyber-crimes are –

I. On its part, the Government has put in place a ‘National Crisis Management Plan' to protect IT infrastructure in critical sectors such as petroleum, aviation, banking, power and telecom. II. IT Act 2000 (Amended in 2009) – It is the key legislation that cover cyber-crimes as well. III. CERT-In – CERT-In is a nodal agency for responding to ‘computer security incidents’ IV. A new umbrella body National Cyber Security and Coordination Centre (NCSC) is also in the offing and it will analyze Internet traffic data scanned and integrated from various gateway routers at a centralized location. It will facilitate real-time assessment of cyber-security threats and generate actionable reports for various agencies. V. Government is also coming up with Communications Convergence Bill that will facilitate a single regulator for all communication media in form of a ‘Communication Commission’. The Communications Bill seeks to replace all old and redundant legislations which include the Telegraph Act of 1885, as well as Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act 1933, Cable TV Network (Regulation) Act 1995, IT Act 2000 and so on. The National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP), 2013 is a much awaited policy announcement, especially in the wake of increasing challenges to the national security on the cyber-front. The NCSP offers a starting point as it conceives of securing cyberspace as a more broad-based task than the specific jobs such as protecting crucial servers or critical infrastructure, like power grids and nuclear plants.

I. It sets out 14 objectives II. The policy plans to create national and sectoral level 24×7 mechanisms for obtaining strategic information regarding threats to ICT infrastructure, creating scenarios for response, resolution and crisis management through effective, predictive, preventive, proactive response and recovery actions. III. The policy calls for the creation of several agencies, including a 24×7 National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC). The NCIIPC is to be the nodal agency to protect critical infrastructure, while another 24×7 agency, CERT-In, is to coordinate all emergency response and crisis management. IV. The NCSP also says that it will create a workforce of 5 lakh cyber security professionals in five © Nitin Sangwan

years. V. The National Cyber Security Policy, in order to create a secure cyber ecosystem, has planned to set-up a National Nodal Agency. The nodal agency will be coordinating all matters related to cyber security in the country. VI. The policy identifies 8 different strategies for creating a secure cyber eco-system including the need for creating an assurance framework apart from encouraging open standards to facilitate inter-operability and data exchange amongst different products or services. VII. Another defining aspect of the policy is the level at which it envisages public-private partnership to protect national assets. Despite such ambitious pronouncements by the NCSP, it must be realized that creating a national cyber security policy is no easy task. It involves reconciling contradictory goals, such as data privacy and collection of threat information. The NCSP does not offer a discussion on these important questions but it is hoped that a balance would be attempted at between the rather tricky conflict between intelligence gathering for national security and privacy of individuals.

Weaknesses of the IT Act 2000 and other mechanisms –

I. Most of the cyber crimes have been made bailable offences which make the law weak. II. The implementation of the Act is feeble in tier-two cities as awareness of the law by enforcement agencies remains a big challenge III. Controversies surrounding Section 66A. Section 66A of the Information Technology Act deals with punishment for sending offensive messages through communication service, which cause annoyance, inconvenience, danger, obstruction, insult, injury, criminal intimidation, enmity, hatred, or ill will. It is argued that Section 66A curbs freedom of speech and expression and violates Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution. The petition further contends that the expressions used in the Section are “vague” and “ambiguous” and that 66A is subject to “wanton abuse” in view of the subjective powers conferred on the police to interpret the law. Section 66A should be amended to bring it in consonance with the reasonable restrictions mentioned in the Constitution. IV. Cyber war needs to be made an offence under the Act as in case of USA which has declared cyber war equal to a real war in its new defense policy. V. The Act does not cover a majority of crimes committed through mobiles. This needs to be rectified. VI. The Act should have a comprehensive data protection regime defined in it. VII. The Act should have a comprehensive privacy regime defined in it. Money-laundering and its prevention

Money laundering involves disguising financial assets so that they can be used without detection of © Nitin Sangwan the illegal activity that produced them. Through money laundering, the launderer transforms the monetary proceeds derived from criminal activity into funds with an apparently legal source.

It, in general, involves three steps – Placement of funds into system through formal institutions though process of smurfing i.e. breaking down the large amount into smaller ones so that their source cannot be traced, gold, valuable goods, antiques etc; Layering involves taking the source away from its source of generation to places like Swiss Banks; Integration involves re-integrating the money back into economy by making it look like legal one.

Sources of money laundering or black money –

 Corruption  Crime derived money  Ill gotten money of corporate  Tax evasions Porous borders, airlines, Hawala, sea routes, smuggling, drug trafficking etc act as conduit of placing such money.

Narco terrorism has emerged as one of the biggest threat and a source of black money as well as a security threat.

Money laundering, black money and corruption are closely linked. Ill gotten money from corrupt activities is the one which is fed into the system.

Recently emergence of ‘Offshore Financial Trading Centers’ have also raised concerns. OFTC are the financial centers in certain countries like Mauritius, Seychelles, Liechtenstein etc which provide domicile for international firms in form of holding companies and subsidiaries in an advantageous fiscal climate (no tax, secrecy etc). Such havens often facilitate tax evasion especially when they have flawed Double Taxation Avoidance agreements with other countries. They have emerged as a biggest source of the routing back of the laundered money.

Advent of technology has also made tracing of money more challenging and it is called Cyber Laundering. Funds can now be transferred online without actually crossing border. HSBC Bank of Hongkong was recently found guilty by US and Indian governments of indulging in such practices and USA even fined it heavily.

Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 is the legislation in India that has been enacted to prevent it. It is modeled after the model draft circulated by FATF. It has severe punitive measures which include – 3 to 7 years of imprisonment, non bailable offence and appeal only in HC after appellate tribunal gives a go ahead. It also has provisions of attachment of property of persons found guilty. It also provides for special courts and tribunals. The burden of proof lies on the accused against whom prima facie evidences have been found. This law was further strengthened through an Amendment in 2012 which did away with the minimum amount limit clause of the original Act and now the law can be invoked for any amount. It also provides confiscation of assets even before punishment is announced. © Nitin Sangwan

Cap on minimum fines has also been lifted. Definition of money laundering has also been widened.

Internationally, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is inter-governmental body led by OECD that strives for preventing money laundering and terrorist financing and was conceptualized in wake of 9/11 attack. India joins FATF in 2010.

In wake of rising terrorism and increasing financing of terror activities by money laundering, a global consensus is slowly emerging which is now forcing safe havens like Swiss Banks work in a more transparent manner. There are some signs of its happening as Swiss Banks have recently shared some information regarding the money parked by Indians there. But more has to be done.

Some Methods and sources –

 Structuring: Often known as "smurfing", is a method of placement by which cash is broken into smaller deposits of money, used to defeat suspicion of money laundering and to avoid anti-money laundering reporting requirements.

 Bulk cash smuggling: Physically smuggling cash to another jurisdiction, where it will be deposited in a financial institution, such as an offshore bank, with greater bank secrecy or less rigorous money laundering enforcement.

 Real estate: Real estate may be purchased with illegal proceeds, then sold. The proceeds from the sale appear to outsiders to be legitimate income. Alternatively, the price of the property is manipulated;

 Black salaries: Companies might have unregistered employees without a written contract who are given cash salaries. Black cash might be used to pay them.

Security challenges and their management in border areas

Challenges in border areas –

 Poor demarcation – For example in case of China, we don't have an international border but a LAC.  Porous border – Along Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal we have porous borders which lead to inflow of arms, counterfeit currency, drugs and so on.  Infiltration and terrorism across LoC and organization of terror camps in vicinity of border areas  Nepal became a hub of anti-Indian activities by proxy mainly encouraged by ISI. It also serves as a transit point for such people. Recent arrest of Abdul Karim Tunda and Yasin Bhatkal shows this trend.  We also have unresolved maritime borders with our neighbors. This leads to issues like © Nitin Sangwan

fishermen getting imprisoned and clash over fishing rights.  Extra-regional powers like US, Russia, China, France have their naval presence in high seas which is also a concern of maritime security.  Piracy, terrorism, smuggling, narcotics, human trafficking, unregulated sea traffic are other issues in international waters.  There is also an issue of separatist elements supporting external forces in North East.  Illegal immigration in North East and resulting change in demographic composition and resulting violent reactions are also big challenges in North East border areas. Recent steps in curbing challenges around border areas –

 2003 ceasefire agreement has led to considerable decline in cross-border firings and an agreement has been reached.  Similarly, with China also an agreement has been reached to acknowledge LAC and refrain from escalation of border issues.  With Bangladesh, both countries have come up with a Border Management Plan. As per this plan, the BSF and the Border Guards of Bangladesh agreed to reduce the killing of people crossing the border. They have agreed to refrain from firing at civilians. Troops will not fire at each other.  India and Myanmar have a border trade agreement. There are border haats at 2 points – Moreh in Manipur and Zawkhatar in Mizoram. There is also a border trade committee to facilitate the trade. Because the same tribes stay on both sides, there is an understanding between the two governments to facilitate the movement of such tribes.  Government has also come up with idea of Integrated Check Posts on its borders to facilitate better security, faster clearances and more facilities for trade.  Government has also launched Border Area Development Programs. It was launched in 1988 initially for the Pakistan border areas. Its aim is integrated development of the border areas. Linkages of organized crime with terrorism

Organized crime activities include – underworld, drug traffickers, mafias, dacoits, cyber hackers, money- launderers, hawala activists, currency traffickers etc.

Organized criminals generally have motto of financial gains while terrorists have political motives like destabilizing of governments etc.

Recently, as terrorist activities spread across the globe, their funds requirements have increased and in such situations, they cannot pursue their ideological goals simply with the help of their own funds. Similarly, organized criminals are also expanding their presence and need a cover for their activities through means such as terrorizing their targets. In such a situation, the two are increasingly having a symbiotic relations. There are ample evidences to suggest that terrorist groups like Al-Queda and © Nitin Sangwan

Taliban are financed through proceeds of drug trafficking and fake currency trafficking. 2003 Madrid train bomb blast exposed such nexus. Back at home, Mumbai attack investigation has shown similar links and Mumbai bomb blasts also showed links of Dawood with terrorists. Similarly, organized hacking is also emerging as a favorite activity among the terrorists as an easy source of financing.

STEPS TAKEN TO TACKLE TERRORISM

I. ATS – Anti Terror Squad was formed in 2004 to specially deal with terrorism. II. NSG strengthened in wake of terrorism III. NIA – A pan India investigating agency, especially for terrorist activities was formed after the 2008 attacks. IV. NATGRID – It has been mooted after the 2008 attack on Mumbai. Based on the US model of a centralized database. It integrates 21 important data sources like -banks, insurance companies, stock exchanges, airlines, railways. V. India joins FATF VI. There is a proposal of setting an umbrella organization for counter terrorism tactics. National Counter Terrorism Centre is the proposed body on the line of US NCTC. Some of the suggestions to deal with the internal security problem –

 Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), established by USA in the aftermath of 9/11 is an example of a an anti-terrorist mechanism in a federal set up. The Joint Terrorism Task Forces located in various cities across the USA include representatives from the Federal, State and Municipal enforcement agencies and perform several important roles, including the clearing of all terrorism-related information. Instead of the proposed NCTC, such a mechanism can address the apprehensions of state more effectively.  Reforming criminal justice system is also imperative. It is also necessary to recognise that national security cannot be safeguarded unless the entire apparatus of the criminal justice system discharges its duties with competence, speed, fairness and complete honesty. Last year, nearly two crore criminal cases under the Indian Penal Code and Special Laws were awaiting trial. This sad state of neglect, accompanied by progressively declining conviction rates, has rightly generated the perception that crime is a low-risk and high-profit business in India.  Reform the judiciary to hasten up the cases.  Laws should also be updated – Indian Evidence Act, IPC, CrPC, Police Act etc all are 19th century laws. Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

India Year Book +

CIVIL DEFENSE and HOME GUARDS © Nitin Sangwan

Civil Defense consists of any measure not amounting to actual combat, for affording protection to any person, property, place or thing in India or any part of the territory. It aims at minimizing damage, saving lives etc. Their training takes place at local levels and people are recruited via schools, colleges or communities. A centrally sponsored scheme was launched in 11th plan to revamp civil defense.

Home Guard is also a voluntary force, but unlike Civil Defense they assist Police in controlling civil disturbances and riots. A home guard whenever called for his services is paid unlike the voluntary services of Civil Defense. Their importance was highlighted during the Chinese aggression. Before that there were several patterns of home guards, however, after that they were uniformed by an Act of parliament.

NCC

It was established in 1948 to imbibe spirit of discipline and dedication in youth. It has its motto – ‘Unity and discipline’. The origin of NCC can be traced back to the ‘University Corps’, which was created under the Indian Defense Act 1917, with the object to make up the shortage of the Army. The organization is directly headed by army personnel. At the Headquarters level, this organization is headed by an officer of the rank of Lieutenant General.

Following the Chinese Aggression, to meet the requirement of the Nation, the NCC training was made compulsory in 1963. In 1968, the Corps was again made voluntary.

TERRITORIAL ARMY

The Territorial Army in India is an organization of volunteers who receive military training for a few days in a year so that in case of an emergency they can be mobilized for the defense of the country. It is a second line of defense after the Regular Indian Army; the Indian Territorial Army is not a profession, occupation or a source of employment. It is only meant for those people who are already in mainstay civilian professions, in fact, gainful employment or self-employment in a civil profession is a pre-requisite for joining the Territorial Army.

SPG

After Indira Gandhi‘s assassination, a Special Protection Unit (SPU) was formed to provide proximate security for Prime Minister & his family members. On recommendations of Birbal Nath Committee, SPU was replaced by Special Protection Group (SPG) under executive order. It became statutory body under SPG act 1988. Under SPG, officers are drawn from various central & state armed forces. They are headed by a director of IGP rank, who works under Cabinet Secretariat.

© Nitin Sangwan

*Other Defense Related Issues and News

Budget remains less than 2% of GDP. In 2013, the budget stood at around 2 lakh crore and Air Force gets the biggest share of the pie.

ARIHANT – India’s first nuclear powered submarine and only with nuclear strike capability

FDI in DEFENSE – Recently government announced that FDI will be increased in Defense from 26% to 49%.Ministry of Commerce has earlier recommended to increase it up to 74 per cent.It seems that the MoD is of the view that allowing foreign companies to set up manufacturing and assembling facilities in India will stymie the growth of indigenous design and development activities and perpetuate our dependence on the foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for modern weapons. This argument presupposes that indigenous design and development activities have been flourishing, or have started looking up, even under the existing restrictive FDI regime and that any relaxation in the FDI cap will adversely affect these activities.

DEFENSE TECHNOLOGY INDIGENISATION – The import content of defense acquisitions will continue to remain over 70-80 per cent. Indigenization should also be true to its meaning. For example – Tejas has its engine and radar being imported from US and Israel respectively. DRDO with its 50 odd labs has not proved up to the mark. DRDO and HAL also claim that armed forces set unrealistic targets and shift them quite often. Armed forces on the other hand blame inordinate delays in delivery. Tejas and Arjun main battle tank are the most often cited examples. Tejas has been under development since 1980s. As an alternative to laggard PSU sector performance, Defense Ministry has now started to open up defense sector for private players as well. Although the country has now diversified its acquisition sources beyond Russia to the West and Israel, recent deals have failed to include transfer-of-technology (ToT) clauses. The much delayed MMRCA deal with Rafale also appears to have run into rough weather on this account. Since its inception in 1958, the DRDO has achieved some spectacular successes like the missile development program, but also has many failures to its name. Programs like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and the Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun have suffered inordinate delays and time and cost overruns. However, to its credit, the DRDO worked under extremely restrictive technology denial regimes and with a rather low indigenous technology base. The Defense Procurement Procedure (DPP) was amended once again in April 2013 to reflect the current thinking on ‘buying Indian’. However, in effect it still favors the defense PSUs over the private sector. Offset clauses in defense agreements are further a step in direction of indigenization of foreign equipments and technologies.

*J&K

After invasion by Pakistan, many agreements have been reached, but they filed to solve the boundary issue. Karachi Agreement (1949) as well as Shimla agreement (1972) delineate LAC/Cease Fire Line till a point called NJ9842 and beyond which towards Laddakh there is no clear definition and as a result there are always conflicting claims.

UN also passed a resolution in 1948 after hearing arguments of both the countries known as – UN © Nitin Sangwan

Security Council Resolution 47. It called for a plebiscite, which however could not take place as none of the countries withdrew their forces. Further, the resolution was not binding. Later, 4 more resolutions were passed calling for synchronous withdrawal of forces, but that didn’t happen till date.

Special programs launched by the government in Kashmir –

 Operation Sadbhavana – A program of Indian Army to connect with public of Jammu and Kashmir. Under this students are taken on sponsored visits to other parts of country.  Udaan– It is a central scheme for the skill development and job for Kashmiri youth. National Skill Development Corporation in collaboration with various agencies and companies undertake skill development and placement under this.  Himayat –Himayat is a skill development scheme introduced in J&K to provide skill training to 1 lakh youth in next 5 years. Entire cost to be borne by Centre. *Police Reforms

Recommendations of ‘The Padmanabhaiah Committee on Police Reforms, 2000’ and ‘National Police Commission under Dharamvira, 1979’ (gave a model police Act) should be implemented to make the working of police without political interference and the archaic ‘Police Act’ should be amended. SC also appointed Jules Robero Committee to look at the issue of police reforms.

SC also in Prakash Singh Case in landmark 2006 decision laid out model 7 model guidelines for states to re-model their Police Acts. Most of the states have still to make changes in their respective police acts.

PRAKASH SINGH CASE & 7 POINT DIRECTIVES of SC, 2006

I. Directive One: Constitute a State Security Commission (SSC) to i) Ensure that the state government doesn’t exercise unwarranted influence on the police

ii) Lay down broad policy guideline

iii) Evaluate the performance of the state police

II. Directive two: Ensure that the DGP is appointed through merit based transparent process and secure a minimum tenure of two years III. Directive Three: Ensure that other police officers on operational duties (including Superintendents of Police in-charge of a district and Station House Officers in-charge of a police station) are also provided a minimum tenure of two years IV. Directive Four: Separate the investigation and law and order functions of the police V. Directive Five: Set up a Police Establishment Board (PEB) to decide transfers, postings, promotions and other service matters of police officers of and below the rank of DSP and make recommendations on postings and transfers above the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police. VI. Directive Six : Set up a Police Complaints Authority (PCA) at state level to inquire into public complaints against police officers of and above the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police in cases of serious misconduct, including custodial death, grievous hurt, or rape in police custody and at district levels to inquire into public complaints against the police personnel below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police in cases of serious misconduct VII. Directive Seven: Set up a National Security Commission (NSC) at the union level to prepare a panel for selection and placement of Chiefs of the Central Police Organizations (CPO) with a minimum tenure of two years. © Nitin Sangwan

2nd ARC has also made certain recommendations vis-à-vis police reforms apart from above –

 Too many functions assigned – One of the major problems is clubbing a variety of disparate functions in a single police force and concentrating all authority at one level. A single, monolithic force now discharges several functions. As a result, the core functions are often neglected. Second, accountability is greatly diluted. Third, the skills and resources required for each function are unique and a combination of often unrelated functions undermines both morale and professional competence.  Self-esteem of Policemen – A constable can generally expect only one promotion in a life time and normally retires as a head constable. Constables have become ‘machines’ carrying out the directions of their superiors