1 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021

GS-CRASH COURSE

S&T

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2 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 S&T SERUM INSTITUTE`S COVISHIELD VS BHARAT BIOTECH`S COVAXIN: The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approved Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech vaccines for restricted emergency use against COVID-19 in India. Background: Neither Covishield nor Covaxin has completed the crucial Phase-3 trial, under which a vaccine candidate is administered to volunteers at multiple locations across the country. • The approval was based on a recommendation by a Subject Expert Committee which deliberated for two days on granting approvals to the vaccines. • Covishield has been developed by Oxford University in collaboration with Astrazeneca. • Pune-based Serum Institute of India is their manufacturing and trial partner. • It uses a replication-deficient chimpanzee viral vector based on a weakened version of a common cold virus. • This virus causes infections in chimpanzees and contains the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus spike protein.

NATIONAL INNOVATION FOUNDATION (NIF) Context: Innovation Portal is developed by National Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India, an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). • The National Innovation Portal (NIP) is currently home to about 1.15 lakh innovations scouted from common people of the country, covering Engineering, Agriculture, Veterinary and Human Health. • In terms of domain areas, presently the innovations cover Energy, mechanical, automobile, electrical, electronics, household, nutraceuticals etc.

About National Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India: It is an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. • Set up in February 2000 at Ahmedabad, Gujarat to provide institutional support for scouting, spawning, sustaining and scaling up the grassroots innovations across the country.

3 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It is India’s national initiative to strengthen the grassroots technological innovations and outstanding traditional knowledge. • Its mission is to help India become a creative and knowledge-based society by expanding policy and institutional space for grassroots technological innovators.

INDIA PROPOSES TO EXPAND RESEARCH, TOURISM IN THE ARCTIC: Context: India has unveiled a new draft ‘Arctic’ policy. India’s Arctic Policy Roadmap For Sustainable Engagement draft rides on five pillars: 1. Science and research activities. 2. Economic and human development cooperation. 3. Transportation and connectivity. 4. Governance and international cooperation. 5. National capacity building. Highlights of the Policy: 1. The policy commits to expanding scientific research, “sustainable tourism” and mineral oil and gas exploration in the Arctic region. 2. The draft spells out goals in India’s Arctic Mission such as to better understand the scientific and climate-related linkages between the Arctic and the Indian monsoons. 3. It also seeks to harmonise polar research with the third pole (the Himalayas) and to advance the study and understanding of the Arctic within India. 4. The policy calls for exploration opportunities for responsible exploration of natural resources and minerals from the Arctic and identifying opportunities for investment in Arctic infrastructure in areas such as “offshore exploration/mining, ports, railways and airports. Arctic region: • The Arctic region comprises the Arctic Ocean and parts of countries such as Canada, Denmark (Greenland), Norway, Russia, USA (Alaska), Finland, Sweden and Iceland. • These countries together form the core of the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental forum. The region is home to almost four million inhabitants, of which, about one-tenth are indigenous people.

4 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 India's engagement in the Arctic: India already has a research station in the Arctic, Himadri, for the research work. India received the ‘Observer’ country status in the Arctic Council in 2013 and is one among the 13 countries across the world, including China, to have that position. The status was renewed in 2018. Significance of arctic study for India: • Though none of India’s territory directly falls in the Arctic region, it is a crucial area as the Arctic influences atmospheric, oceanographic and biogeochemical cycles of the earth’s ecosystem. • Due to climate change, the region faces the loss of sea ice, ice caps, and warming of the ocean which in turn impacts the global climate. • The frigid Arctic, which keeps losing ice due to global warming, is one of the batteries feeding the variations in Indian monsoons.

MANUFACTURED SAND: Context: The Rajasthan government has brought a policy on manufactured sand (M- sand), giving industry status to the units producing it for construction work and reducing the dependence on bajri (riverbed sand). Highlights of the new Policy: • The policy will enable the investors to set up M-sand units by utilising the incentives offered by the State government. • It will also help in environmental protection and generate faith among the public in the efficacy of M sand for construction works. • The policy would help create employment opportunities through new units and resolve the issue of huge quantities of waste generated in the mining areas. • Background: The Supreme Court had banned illegal mining on riverbeds in 2017.

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What is M-Sand? • M-sand is a substitute of river sand for concrete construction. • Manufactured sand is produced from hard granite stone by crushing. • The crushed sand is of cubical shape with grounded edges, washed and graded to as a construction material. • The size of manufactured sand (M-Sand) is less than 4.75mm. Its significance: • It can be dust free, the sizes of m-sand can be controlled easily so that it meets the required grading for the given construction. • It is well graded in the required proportion. • It does not contain organic and soluble compounds that affect the setting time and properties of cement, thus the required strength of concrete can be maintained. • It does not have the presence of impurities such as clay, dust and silt coatings.

BBV154, BHARAT BIOTECH’S SINGLE-DOSE INTRANASAL VACCINE FOR COVID-19: Context: Bharat Biotech’s BBV154 is the first publicised attempt at getting an intranasal Covid-19 vaccine. What is an intranasal vaccine?

6 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Vaccines are most commonly administered as injectable shots into the muscles (intramuscular) or the tissue just between the skin and the muscles (subcutaneous) • However, with intranasal vaccines, the solution is squirted or sprayed into the nostrils and inhaled instead of injecting it.

TWO FLIGHT SURGEONS FOR GAGANYAAN TO TRAIN IN RUSSIA: Context: Russia will train two flight surgeons from India in space medicine for the Gaganyaan mission. Flight surgeons are: • Doctors from the Indian Air Force who have specialised in aerospace medicine. • Responsible for astronauts' health before, during and after a flight.

Indian Human Space Flight Programme: ISRO aims to launch its maiden Human Space Mission, Gaganyaan before the 75th anniversary of India’s independence in 2022. Objectives of the Mission: 1. Enhancement of science and technology levels in the country 2. A national project involving several institutes, academia and industry 3. Improvement of industrial growth 4. Inspiring youth 5. Development of technology for social benefits 6. Improving international collaboration.

ASTROSAT: Context: AstroSat’s Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope spots rare ultraviolet-bright stars in a massive intriguing cosmic dinosaur in the Milky Way.

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Significance of the discovery: Such UV-bright stars are speculated to be the reason for the ultraviolet radiation coming from old stellar systems such as elliptical galaxies which are devoid of young blue stars. Hence, it is all the more important to observe more such stars to understand their properties. About AstroSat: • AstroSat is India’s first multi-wavelength space telescope, which has five telescopes seeing through different wavelengths simultaneously — visible, near UV, far UV, soft X-ray and hard X-ray. • Onboard the AstroSat is a • 38-cm wide UltraViolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT), which is capable of imaging in far and near-ultraviolet bands over a wide field of view. • AstroSat was launched on 28 September 2015 by ISRO into a near-Earth equatorial orbit. • It is a multi-institute collaborative project, involving IUCAA, ISRO, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (Mumbai), Indian Institute of Astrophysics (Bengaluru), and Physical Research Laboratory (Ahmedabad), among others.

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION (STI) POLICY: Context: The draft Science, Technology and Innovation Policy released on Jan 1. It could be game-changers for not just the scientific research community, but also for the way ordinary Indians interact with Science. What is the overall philosophy behind the policy?

8 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Unlike previous STI policies which were largely top-driven in formulation, the 5th national STI policy (STIP) follows core principles of being decentralised, evidence- informed, bottom-up, experts-driven, and inclusive. Overall objectives: 1. To position India among the top three scientific superpowers in the decade to come. 2. To attract, nurture, strengthen, and retain critical human capital through a people- centric STI ecosystem. 3. To double the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) researchers, gross domestic expenditure on R&D (GERD) and private-sector contribution to GERD every five years. 4. To build individual and institutional excellence in STI with the aim of reaching the highest levels of global recognition and awards in the coming decade. Key components: 1. It proposes an Open Science Framework, with free access for all to findings from publicly funded research. 2. One Nation, One Subscription: The idea is to democratise science by providing access to scholarly knowledge to not just researchers but to every individual in the country. 3. It suggests modification or waiver of General Financial Rules (GFR), for large- scale mission mode programmes and projects of national importance.

GI TAG SOUGHT FOR INDIA’S COSTLIEST MUSHROOM: Context: A geographical indication (GI) tag has been sought for one of the costliest mushrooms in the world that grows in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. Key Points: • Locally called Gucchi, or Morel, the mushroom, priced at over ₹20,000 a kg, is a forest produce collected by local farmers and tribals. • It is said to have medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties. • It is found in the temperate forests.

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About GI tag: • A GI is primarily an agricultural, natural or a manufactured product (handicrafts and industrial goods) originating from a definite geographical territory. • Typically, such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness, which is essentially attributable to the place of its origin. Security: Once the GI protection is granted, no other producer can misuse the name to market similar products. It also provides comfort to customers about the authenticity of that product.

ACROSS SCHEME: Context: The scheme was recently reviewed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. ACROSS Scheme: • ACROSS (“Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services) scheme pertains to the atmospheric science programs of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). • It addresses different aspects of weather and climate services, which includes warnings for cyclone, storm surges, heat waves, thunderstorms etc. Benefits of the Scheme:

10 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The scheme will provide improved weather, climate and ocean forecast and services, thereby ensuring transfer of commensurate benefits to the various services. • To ensure last-mile connectivity of the weather based services to the end -user, a large number of agencies like the Krishi Vigyana Kendras of ICAR, Universities and local municipalities are roped in thus generating employment opportunities to many people TRANSFATTY ACIDS Why in News? The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has capped the amount of trans fatty acids (TFA) in oils and fats to 3% for 2021 and 2% by 2022 from the current permissible limit of 5% through an amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations 2011.

Trans-fat consumption is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Trans Fat . Trans fatty acids (TFAs) or Trans fats are the most harmful type of fats which can have much more adverse effects on a human body than any other dietary constituent.

11 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 . These fats are largely produced artificially but a small amount also occurs naturally. Thus in our diet, these may be present as Artificial TFAs and/ or Natural TFAs.

o Artificial TFAs are formed when hydrogen is made to react with the oil to produce fats resembling pure ghee/butter. . In our diet the major sources of artificial TFAs are the partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHVO)/vanaspati/ margarine while the natural TFAs are present in meats and dairy products, though in small amounts.. . WHO launched a REPLACE campaign in 2018 for global-level elimination of trans-fats in industrially produced edible oils by 2023.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING/3D PRINTING Why in news? Recently, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) prepared a strategy paper titled “National Strategy on Additive manufacturing (AM)”. About National Strategy on Additive manufacturing (AM) • Strategy aims to promote various verticals of the AM sector, including machines, materials, software and designs to leverage the untapped business opportunities that will unfold in the near future. • This will further accelerate the adoption of untapped potential business opportunities in the near future and the execution of recommendations as laid out in the National Electronics Policy, 2019. Its objectives include: • Ensure creation of a sustainable ecosystem for the AM industry to compete globally. • Position India as a global Innovation and Research hub for Additive Manufacturing. • Promote creation of Indian IPR. Strategy envisages: • Creation of National Additive Manufacturing Centre: A dedicated agency constituted to spearhead the National Initiative for positioning India at the

12 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 forefront of development of AM technologies and address legal & ethical issues arising out of it.

JAROSITE: RARE MINERAL FOUND IN ANTARCTICA A rare maritime mineral, Jarosite, has been found in the Antarctica ice. It was discovered after drilling deep into Antarctic ice What the discovery signifies? The recently discovered mineral was examined and it was found that it was formed in pockets within the ice. This supports the theory of presence of jarosite on MARS in as similar manner. It signifies that, the minerals are able to form in thick deposits on mars because the planet is a lot dustier than Antarctica. What is Jarosite? • Jarosite is a mineral from mars which is scarcely seen on earth. • It is a sulphate of potassium and iron. • It was first discovered on Mars in 2004 by a rover named “opportunity”. • Other Jarosite minerals include silver, sodium, lead and ammonium. • It can be found are in the mining and ore processing wastes where they act as sinks for other toxic elements such as lead and arsenic. • When the jarosite is broken, it releases metals such as iron, potassium besides the hydrogen ions and sulphate. • Jarosite is used in hydrometallurgy to control impurities. • It is yellow to yellowish-brown in colour. It is brittle, hard and has crystal structure. The mineral appears translucent and opaque sometimes. Why Jarosite is found on Mars? The reason for the presence of the mineral on the Mars (Red Planet) is not yet determined. The scientists believe that when the planet was covered with ice millennials ago sulphate, iron, and potassium might get trapped in the form of dust. This believe is not accepted because dust and ice have never chemically reacted to form minerals. Though ice provided a suitable environment for the transformation of dust to the mineral.

NASA FINDS THE ‘LOST GALAXY’

13 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Recently, the Hubble Space Telescope of NASA captured the images of the NGC 4535 which is also known as the “Lost Galaxy”. The image highlights that the young and hot stars that hang out are the bright blue spots. On the other hand, older and cooler stars are highlighted by the bright shades nearer to the center. About the Lost Galaxy • The galaxy is one of the largest of some 2,000 galaxies in the Virgo Cluster. • The galaxy is located about 50 million light-years from Earth. • It is a barred spiral galaxy that means a vast swirl of stars having a distinct bar structure at its center. • The galaxy gives the yellowish glow at its central bulge. The yellowish glow suggests the way to the oldest and coldest retinue of stars in the Lost Galaxy. Spiral galaxy Spiral galaxy is the most common type of galaxy in universe. It has a spiral shape because of long arm full of stars. The galaxy extends from the center into the galactic disc. The galaxy comprises of a flat, rotating disk containing the stars, gas and dust, and a central concentration of stars called as bulge. It is surrounded by a much fainter halo of stars.

“BLUE JET LIGHTNING” The Scientists from the International Space Station (ISS) have observed a bright-blue lightning bolt that is shooting upward from the thunderclouds. Such blue jets are hard to observe from the ground because the electrical discharges emerge from the tops of thunderclouds. Highlights • The instrument at the space station had captured a blue jet shooting from the thunderstorm cell near a small island in the central Pacific Ocean on February 26, 2019. • Scientists had observed the five intense flashes of blue light. • Each of the lighting lasting about 10 to 20 milliseconds. What are blue jets? • Blue jets are initiated as “normal” lightning discharges.

14 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It emerges between the upper positive charge region in a thundercloud and a negative screening layer above the charge region. • The positive end network fills the negative charge region and after that the negative end fills the positive charge region. • After that, the positive end exits the cloud and starts propagating upward. • Earlier, it was believed that blue jets are directly related to lightning flashes but it is the result of the hails. • The blue jets are brighter than sprites and are blue in colour. • The blue colour of the jets is the result of blue and near-ultraviolet emission lines from neutral and ionized molecular nitrogen. • The blue jets were recorded on October 21, 1989 for the first time. Thunderstorm It is also known as an electrical storm or a lightning storm. It is characterized by the presence of lightning and the acoustic effect on the Earth’s atmosphere that is thunder. This phenomenon is usually taking place in the cumulonimbus cloud, the thunderstorm is also accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain. It could also lead to snow, sleet, or hail. Cumulonimbus Cloud It is a dense and towering vertical cloud. This cloud is formed by the water vapour which is carried by the powerful upward air currents.

EUROPE’S LARGEST SOLAR POWER PLANT: FRANCISCO PIZZARO Spain and France have recently signed an agreement to build 590 MW of solar power plant. This will be the largest solar power plant in Europe. About the Power Plant • The solar power plant is to be located in the western province of Caceres located in Spain. • The solar power plant will avoid emission of 245,000 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide. • It is to supply power to 375,000 people per year. • The project is to begin supplying power in 2022. Spain

15 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Spain is currently the busiest subsidy free photo-voltaic market of Europe. In 2020, Spain commissioned 2.9 GW of solar power. In 2019, Spain added 729 MW of solar power. Hence, the 2020 addition is four times that of the 2019 addition. France France has set a target of installing 18 to 20 GW of solar power by 2023. In 2016, France along with India laid the foundation of International Solar Alliance. The International Solar Alliance mainly aims to bring about major decrease in cost of solar energy. This is to be achieved by involving countries rich in solar energy, that is, those countries located between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. Solar Energy in India India has been increasing its solar power capacity. As of November 2020, the installed solar power of India was 36.9 GW. India has established 42 solar parks to make land available to the promoters of solar plants. India has set a target of achieving 175 GW of solar power by 2022.

HUM OF THE UNIVERSE The Hum of the Universe was recently detected by the North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves (NANOGrav). According to the researchers, the hum was produced by gravitational waves. About the Hum of the Universe • The Hum of the Universe comes from a type of dead star called a “Pulsar”. These stars are basically neutron stars. They are oriented in such a manner that they flash beams of radio waves from their poles as they rotate. • . The humming sound from blackhole mergers were detected by LIGO observatories. LIGO is LASER Inferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory. Blackhole Hum Similar humming sounds are produced when black holes collide. Such sounds are called Black Hole hums. On an average more than hundred thousand mergers of black holes occur in the universe in a year. Indian Pulsar Timing Array

16 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 It is a project of National Centre for Radio Astrophysics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. It aims to detect nano-hertz gravitational waves by precision timing.

KRAKEN MARE IN TITAN The researchers have recently found that the largest sea in Titan (moon of Saturn) is thousand feet deep in its centre. Also, it is the size of five great lakes combined together. About Kraken Mare • Kraken Mare is huge liquid body located in the north pole of Titan. • It is made of ethane and methane. • The sea covers 154,000 square miles. • Kraken Mare was discovered by the space probe Cassini. Cassini was developed under the collaboration of NASA, Italian Space Agency and European Space Agency. Cassini was the first space probe to orbit Titan. • The fact that Titan consists of sea of hydrocarbons was discovered through radar images. • An island in Kraken Mare has been named “Mayda Insula”. It is the first island to be named on a planet or moon other than the earth. • To study about Kraken Mare and its composition, “Titan Saturn System Mission” is to be launched. Titan Saturn System Mission • It is a joint mission of NASA and European Space Agency. The mission is to be developed at a cost of 2.5 billion USD. It is a four-year mission. It includes two- year Saturn tour, two months of Titan aero-sampling and twenty-month Titan orbiting phase. • The mission consists of an orbiter and two titan exploration probes. The exploration probes include a hot air balloon and a lander. The hot air balloon will float in Titan clouds and the lander will splash down on one of the methane seas of Titan. • A mission to Jupiter called the Europa Jupiter System Mission-Laplace is delaying the Titan Saturn System Mission.

17 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 EUROPA JUPITER SYSTEM MISSION-LAPLACE It is a joint project of European Space Agency and NASA. The project is to focus on the moons of Jupiter such as Europa and Ganymede and magnetosphere of Jupiter. The magnetosphere is a region in space where the charged particles are affected by the magnetic field of an object. What is Sudden Stratospheric Warming? The Southern India received excessively heavy rainfall (ten times the normal) between January 1, 2021 and January 17, 2021. This winter rain, according to the scientists, is due to sudden stratospheric warming that occurred in Arctic region. Sudden Stratospheric Warming • The Sudden Stratospheric Warming is an event where the polar stratospheric temperature increases up to fifty degrees Celsius. It is preceded by a situation where the polar jet stream of westerly winds in the northern hemisphere is disturbed by natural weather patterns. This is usually addressed as polar vortex. • During winter, the polar vortex is the strongest due to the difference in temperature between polar and mid latitude regions. • When the polar vortex is the strongest, it forms a wall protecting the mid- latitudes from cold Arctic air. When Polar Vortex weakens, the stratosphere begins to warm and the event is called Sudden Stratospheric Warming. 2021 Sudden Stratospheric Warming • The Sudden Stratospheric Warming occurred on January 5, 2021 according to weather forecast models. The Stratosphere is the layer of the atmosphere at a height of ten to fifty kilo metres above the earth surface. • During Sudden Stratospheric Warming, the polar stratospheric temperature might increase up to fifty degree Celsius. Around forty Sudden Stratospheric Warming events have occurred in the last sixty years.

ABELL 370: NASA SHARES PICTURE NASA recently shared the picture of a huge cluster of galaxies called Abell 370. Abell 370 • It is a galaxy cluster located four billion light years away from the earth. The galaxy cluster is located in the constellation called Cetus.

18 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The core of Abell 370 is made of more than hundred galaxies. • The Galaxy was catalogued by George Abell and hence the name. • Abell 370 has several arcs of light. These arcs are the mirages caused by gravitational lensing of dark and massive objects located between the observer and the distant galaxies. • The Abell 370 galaxy cluster was first discovered in 2002 using the lensing effect. What is Gravitational Lensing? As light emitted by galaxies (located in far distances) passes by massive objects, the gravitational pull from these objects tend to bend or distort the light. This is called Gravitational lensing. Cetus Constellation • Cetus constellation is located in the region of the sky where the other constellations such as Pisces, Aquarius and Eridanus are located. • There are fourteen stars in Cetus Constellation. • Mira was the first star discovered in the Cetus constellation. • Tau Ceti of the constellation is the nearest sun-like star.

NATIONAL ATOMIC TIME SCALE The Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the National Atomic Scale at the National Meteorology Conclave What is Atomic Time? Atomic Time provides the exact speed at which the clock ticks. In technical words, it measures the actual length of a second. Atomic Clocks deviate only one second in up to 100 million years. The International System of Units (SI unit) define one second (in atomic time) as the time taken by the Cesium-133 atom in the ground state to oscillate 9,192,631,770 times. In simple words, the atomic clocks count one second after the Cesium-133 atom has oscillated 9,192,631,770 times. What is the significance of National Atomic Time? With the newly inaugurated National Atomic Time, India has become self-reliant in measuring time within the range of nanosecond. It has now achieved the accuracy level of 2.8 Nanosecond matching the International Standard Time.

19 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Why is Atomic Time so important? Reaching an accuracy of 2.8 Nanoseconds in atomic time is of great help to ISRO. Atomic time pay huge role in cutting edge technology. Also, accurate atomic time measurement is essential in the field of weather forecast, disaster management, telecom, Defence, Railways and Banking. What is International Atomic Time? • It is calculated by taking weighted average of more than 300 atomic clocks. • These clocks are located at more than sixty timing laboratories around the world. It is also called Astronomical time that refers to the Earth rotation. • It is computed by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) located in Paris, France.

FLOATING SOLAR ENERGY PROJECT The Government of India is to construct the largest floating solar energy project in the world. The project is to be constructed at Omkareshwar Dam on Narmada river. The project will begin its power generation by 2022 to 2023. Energy capacity of 600 megawatts of solar energy. Financial assistance from International Finance Corporation and World bank. What is floating solar power plant? The floating solar power plant refers to solar panels installed on structures that float on surface of the water. What are the two types of floating Solar Power Plant? • Floating photovoltaic Solar Power plant that uses photovoltaic panels installed on floating platform • Floating concentrated solar power System. It uses mirrors to redirect the solar power to a tower. What are the advantages of floating Solar Power Plant? • No land Occupancy • They help to reduce water evaporation. Therefore, is highly water saving. • Solar power plants have a natural cooling system generated by the water layer beneath the panels

20 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 JAPAN SOLUTION FOR SPACE DEBRIS In order to solve the problem of space debris, Japanese researchers are to launch wooden satellites by 2023. What are wooden satellites? These satellites are made of wood. They will burn up without releasing harmful substances into the atmosphere when they plunge back to the earth. With this the satellite will not leave out any waste in space after it completes its service or when it becomes de functional. Who is designing wooden satellite? The wooden satellites are being designed by the Sumitomo Forestry and Kyoto University. The Sumitomo Forestry is a 400-year-old wood working company of Japan. Both the entities will research on tree growth and use of wood materials in space. They will experiment different types of wood in extreme environments on the earth. What is the issue of space debris? All the satellites that re-enter the earth atmosphere burn and create tiny Alumina particles. These particles float in upper atmosphere for many years. According to NASA, 95% of man-made objects in orbit were space junk. These objects are dangerous to functioning live satellite.

DECEMBER 2020 QUANTUM KEY DISTRIBUTION (QKD): Context: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully demonstrated communication between its two labs using Quantum Key Distribution technology.

21 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and The Research Centre Imarat (RCI) were the two labs that participated in this demonstration. What you need to know about this technology? • Quantum computing refers to a new era of faster and more powerful computers, and the theory goes that they would be able to break current levels of encryption. • QKD works by using photons — the particles which transmit light — to transfer data. • QKD allows two distant users, who do not share a long secret key initially, to produce a common, random string of secret bits, called a secret key. Significance of this technology: The encryption is “unbreakable” and that’s mainly because of the way data is carried via the photon. A photon cannot be perfectly copied and any attempt to measure it will disturb it. This means that a person trying to intercept the data will leave a trace.

TIHAN-IIT HYDERABAD It is India’s first Test bed for Autonomous Navigation Systems (Terrestrial and Aerial). Special Features of this Facility include, Test Tracks, Emulation of Real-World Scenarios, State of the Art Simulation Technologies, Road Infrastructure, V2X Communication, Drone Runways and Landing Area and many more. Background: The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has sanctioned Rs. 135 crores to IIT Hyderabad under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) to set up a Technology Innovation Hub on Autonomous Navigation and Data Acquisition Systems (UAVs, RoVs, etc.). What are Cyber Physical Systems (CPS)? They are a new class of engineered systems that integrate computation and physical processes in a dynamic environment. CPS encompasses technology areas of Cybernetics, Mechatronics, Design and Embedded systems, Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI) among others. The mission implementation would develop and bring:

22 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 1. Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and associated technologies within reach in the country, 2. Adoption of CPS technologies to address India specific National / Regional issues, 3. Catalyze Translational Research, 4. Give impetus to advanced research in CPS, Technology development and higher education in Science, Technology and Engineering disciplines, and

CHANG’E-5 PROBE: Context: Chinese spacecraft carrying rocks and soil from the moon has begun its journey back to Earth, putting China on course to become the first country to successfully retrieve lunar samples since the 1970s. About the Chang'e-5 probe: • The probe is named after the mythical Chinese moon goddess. • The rocket is comprised of four parts: an orbiter, a returner, an ascender and a lander. • The objective of the mission is to bring back lunar rocks, the first attempt by any nation to retrieve samples from the moon in four decades. • If successful, China will be only the third country to have retrieved samples from the moon, following the U.S. and the Soviet Union in the 1960s and 1970s. • This will help scientists learn about the moon’s origins, formation and volcanic activity on its surface. Identified location for the collection of samples: The Chinese probe will collect 2 kg of surface material from a previously unexplored area known as Oceanus Procellarum — or “Ocean of Storms” — which consist of a vast lava plain. The Chang'e-5 mission is expected to realize four "firsts" in China's space history: 1. The first time for a probe to take off from the surface of the Moon. 2. The first time to automatically sample the lunar surface. 3. The first time to conduct unmanned rendezvous and docking in lunar orbit. 4. The first time to return to Earth with lunar soil samples in escape velocity.

QUANTUM SUPREMACY:

23 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 What is Quantum Supremacy? • It describes the point where quantum computers can do things that classical computers cannot. • Superposition and entanglement are what give quantum computers the ability to process so much more information so much faster. Differences between a standard computer and a quantum computer: 1. A classical computer performs calculations using bits that is 0 (representing off )and 1 (representing on). It uses transistors to process information in the form of sequences of zeros and ones called computer binary language. More transistors more processing ability.

2. A quantum computer uses the laws of quantum mechanics. Here, different states can be achieved in particles due to their internal angular momentum called spin. The two states 0 and 1 can be represented in the spin of the particle. Thus, in a classical computer information is expressed through single number either 0 or 1. A quantum computer uses Qubits which is described as a 0 and 1 at the same time giving us more processing power. Potential: While still in its infancy, quantum computing is seen as the key to radically improving the processing speed and power of computers, enabling them to simulate large systems and drive advances in physics, chemistry and other fields.

LAB-GROWN MEAT: CLEARED IN SINGAPORE, EMERGING ALTERNATIVE WORLDWIDE: Context: The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) approved this week the sale of a lab-grown meat product. Why is this big deal? • In its June 2020 Food Outlook Report, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) stated that the world meat output was set to contract row to 333 million tonnes, 1.7% less than in 2019.

24 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The disruption has been caused mainly by Covid-19, but it has added to already widespread fears about zoonotic diseases, especially African swine fever and highly pathogenic avian influenza. • This provides an opportunity to the alternative meat industry. How is lab-grown or cultured meat different from plant-based meat? The latter is made from plant sources such as soy or pea protein, while cultured meat is grown directly from cells in a laboratory. Both have the same objective: to offer alternatives to traditional meat products that could feed a lot more people, reduce the threat of zoonotic diseases, and mitigate the environmental impact of meat consumption. In terms of cellular structure, cultured or cultivated meat is the same as conventional meat except that cultured meat does not come directly from animals.

LIGHT DETECTION AND RANGING SURVEY (LIDAR) TECHNIQUE: Context: National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited will be adopting Light Detection and Ranging Survey (LiDAR) technique using Laser enabled equipment mounted on a Helicopter for conducting ground survey for the preparation of Detailed Project Report for the proposed Delhi-Varanasi HSR corridor. What is LiDAR? It is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (variable distances) to the Earth. • These light pulses—combined with other data recorded by the airborne system— generate precise, threedimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics. How it works? • LiDAR follows a simple principle — throw laser light at an object on the earth surface and calculate the time it takes to return to the LiDAR source. Given the speed at which the light travels (approximately 186,000 miles per second), the process of measuring the exact distance through LiDAR appears to be incredibly fast. • A lidar instrument principally consists of a laser, a scanner, and a specialized GPS receiver.

25 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Airplanes and helicopters are the most commonly used platforms for acquiring lidar data over broad areas.

ETHEREUM 2.0 The Ethereum is a crypto currency. Recently, it was launched in a faster, cheaper and more environmentally friendly platform, as the upgraded version called ‘Ethereum 2.0’. What is Ethereum? • Ethereum is a decentralised and open source blockchain platform, which is a growing list of cryptographic blocks. Ether (ETH) is the cryptocurrency token of the Ethereum platform. • It is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, only after bitcoin. It is also the world’s most actively used blockchain. • Ethereum was first proposed in 2013 by a Russian- Canadian cryptocurrency researcher and programmer Vitalik Buterin. • The largest cryptocurrency ‘Bitcoin’ works on the principle of Mining, which in turn requires solving complex problems leading to large consumption of electricity. • This updated Ethereum 2.0 changes this system into ‘proof of stake’, which links the quantities of ether with the selection as validators. • Cryptocurrencies cannot be used as a legal currency in India. What are cryptocurrencies? It is a specific type of virtual currency that are protected by cryptographic encryption techniques. Some of the popular cryptocurrencies are ripple, Bitcoin, ethereum. There is no central authority to record the transactions. The cryptocurrencies use technologies such as distributed ledger Technology or blockchain technology to store transaction data. What are the current cryptocurrency regulations in India? In December 2017, the Government of India clarified that the virtual currencies do not have protection or regulator permission in India. In 2018-19 Budget, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the Government of India will take all measures to eliminate the use of cryptocurrencies as a part of the payment system in

26 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 the country. In 2018, the Reserve Bank of India notified that the entities operating under it should not deal with cryptocurrency. Subhash Chandra Garg committee on cryptocurrency The inter-ministerial committee constituted under the chairmanship of Subhash Chandra Garg has submitted its report suggesting the draft bill, “Banning of Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency bill, 2019”.

AUSTRALIAN SQUARE KILOMETRE ARRAY PATHFINDER: Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) is a new type of radio telescope developed by Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). It creates high-resolution images by combining the signals of 36 smaller dish antennas. Recently, this telescope had helped map around 300 million galaxies in approximately 300 hours to create a ‘new atlas of the universe’. Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder • The first light of the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder was in October 2012. The first light in Astronomy means the first use of a telescope. • The array consists of 36 identical parabolic Antennas. The antennas work together as a single astronomical Inferometer. Each antenna is 12 metre in diameter. The Antennas are spread over a collecting area of 4000 square metres. • Every antenna is equipped with a phased array feed. A phased array feed creates beam of radio waves that can be electronically guided to points in different direction without moving the Antennas. This increases the field of view of the telescope. What is an Astronomical Inferometer? It is an array of separate telescopes that work together as a single telescope to provide higher resolution of images of astronomical objects such as nebulous, stars and galaxies. Evolutionary map of the universe project The evolutionary map of the universe is a large project of the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder. The map of the universe is to be created using the telescope to make a Census of radio sources in the sky. By tracing the radio sources the

27 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 galaxies, black holes and several other Universal bodies can be detected. The project is expected to detect more than 70 million radio sources.

HAYABUSA2 SPACECRAFT OF JAPAN: The Hayabusa2 spacecraft of Japan is nearing the earth after a yearlong journey from asteroid Ryugu. The spacecraft is to reach the earth in Southern Australia on December 6, 2020 carrying precious samples from the asteroid . The entire operation is being held by JAXA, Japanese Aerospace exploration agency. According to the agency the capsule that is protected by a heat shield will turn into a fire ball at its 200 kilometre from the earth surface. The parachute of the capsule will open at about 10 kilometres. Hayabusa2 This mission follows Hayabusa mission that returned asteroid samples in 2010. Hayabusa2 was launched in 2014. It surveyed the asteroid Ryugu for a year and half. Later it collected the samples from the asteroid and left to the earth in November 2019. The mission is expected to provide knowledge about the evolution of inner planets especially in the origin of water and organic compounds on the earth. Ryugu It is a carbonaceous near-Earth asteroid. The carbonaceous asteroids hold the most Pristine materials in the solar system. Carbonaceous asteroid The carbonaceous asteroid form around 75% of the known asteroids. As their composition includes large amount of carbon, they are distinguished by a very low albedo. Albedo is the measure of reflection of solar radiation. The value of albedo is between 0 and 1. The carbonaceous asteroid occurs mostly at the outer edge of the Asteroid belt. Rovers of Hayabusa2 Hayabusa2 carried four small Rovers. These Rovers were deployed at different dates. The first two Rovers were called HIBOU and OWL. The third Rover was called MASCOT. The fourth Rover called MINERVA failed before it was released from the Orbiter. MASCOT

28 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 MASCOT is Mobile Asteroid Surface Scout. It was developed by the joint cooperation of French Space Agency CNES and German Aerospace centre. It is the only object of the mission developed by a foreign Space Centre. The rest of the components were developed within Japan and JAXA.

HARVESTING WATER FROM AIR Context: A team of researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology-Guwahati (IIT-G) have developed a method for harvesting water from humid air. About the Method • This method involves spraying a sponge-like porous polymeric material on a normal printer paper. • This method can also be used to prevent icing on aircraft windows. • The method mainly uses the principle of hydrophobicity. The lotus leaves exhibit the property of hydrophobicity. • The Researchers have used the action of the insect-eating pitcher plant whose slippery surface makes insects landing on it to fall into itself to be digested. They used ‘Slippery liquid-infused porous surface’ (SLIPS) to effectively harvest water from foggy air. • The SLIPS are capable of harvesting water from air without the use of an external cooling arrangement. • Conventionally, the Atmospheric water generator (AWG) that extracts water from humid ambient air, uses condensation, exposing to desiccants or pressurizing water. Atmospheric Water Generator The main principle of operation is condensation. Here the water vapour in the air is extracted as water by pressuring the air, cooling the air below its dew point and exposing the air to dessicants. A Dessicant is a hygroscopic substance. Dew Point is the point to which air should be cooled to make its saturated with water vapour. When cooled further, it will condense into liquid water (or dew). Water Scarcity in India

29 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 More than 82% of households are without piped water supply. The Composite Water Management Index, 2018, by NITI Aaayog noted that India will lose 6% of its economic GDP by 2050.

ARECIBO TELESCOPE: Puerto Rico’s Arecibo Telescope was built in 1963. It is the second-largest single-dish radio telescope in the world. It was in news recently because of its collapse. It is owned by the US National Science Foundation. It is known for its finding that Mercury rotates in 59 days and not 88 days (original calculation). About Arecibo Telescope • The Arecibo Telescope has one of the most powerful radar employed to observe asteroids, planets, ionosphere. • The telescope has discovered the first exoplanets, prebiotic molecules in distant galaxies and first millisecond Pulsar. • Prebiotic molecules are matter that lead to the origin of life. The Telescope had served as a hub in the search of extra-terrestrial life and has picked up several radio signals from alien civilisations. • It has played a major role in tracking killer asteroids heading towards the earth. • In 1993, the scientists Joseph Taylor and Russell Hulse were awarded the Nobel Prize in physics. With the help of the observatory they monitored a binary Pulsar. It was the first evidence for the existence of gravitational waves. Why did the Arecibo Telescope collapse? • On November 19, 2020, the National Science Foundation of the United States recommended controlled demolition of the telescope. • The telescope structure is in danger of failure and the cables of the telescope are no longer capable of carrying its weight. . C32 LH2 PROPELLANT TANK: C32 LH2 is the largest-ever cryogenic propellant tank developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. It was delivered to ISRO recently. It is designed to increase the payload capability of ISRO’S Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV

30 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Mk III) from 4 tonnes to 6 tonnes. The aim is to create self-reliance with regards to carrying heavier communication satellites into space. About C32 LH2 Tank • It is a cryogenic propellant tank made of aluminium alloy. The tank can load 5,755 kilo grams of propellant fuel. • Currently, India is dependent on French Guiana to launch heavier communication satellites (of 5 to 6 tonnes). C32 LH2 will put an end to India’s dependence on a foreign country and will boost its self-reliance. What are Cryogenic fuels? • Cryogenic means low temperature. • They are fuels that requires extremely low storage temperature. They are generally used in space as the temperature is low. Thus, the space environment cannot support combustion. And therefore, highly low temperature fuels are needed. • Usually the cryogenic engines use liquid hydrogen as fuel and liquid oxygen as oxidiser. This is because oxygen can be kept in liquid state that is below -183 degrees Celsius. • On the other hand, the liquid hydrogen is kept at -253 degree Celsius. Liquid Oxygen is highly reactive and can be used as a propellant to carry heavy loads. How did India acquire Cryogenic Technology? India obtained the Cryogenic technology from the Russians. In 1991, the Soviet Union agreed to transfer the technology to ISRO. The other countries such as US, Japan, Europe and China were hesitant to share the technology with India. Significance of Cryogenic Technology The technology helps in space advancements. The cryogenic fuels are highly economical as they are light in weight. Cryogenic Technology is clean as the only by products released are oxygen and hydrogen. The technology will help India become a space power NOVEMBER 2020 SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY PARKS OF INDIA (STPI):

31 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: The Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) is investing up to ₹400 crore in setting up office and connectivity infrastructure across several cities, offering small technology firms a ‘plug-and-play’ facility. About Software Technology Parks of India (STPI): • It is an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). • Established in 1991 • The STPI’s Governing Council’s Chairperson is the Union Minister for Electronics & Information Technology. Other key objectives: • To provide statutory and other promotional services to the exporters by implementing Software Technology Parks (STP)/ Electronics and Hardware Technology Parks (EHTP) Schemes, SEZ scheme and other such schemes which may be formulated and entrusted by the Government from time to time. • To promote micro, small and medium entrepreneurs by creating conducive environment for entrepreneurship in the field of IT/ITES. • To establish and manage infrastructure resources such as Datacom facilities, Project Management and Consultancy and IT support facilities.

DESALINATION PLANTS Context: Uddhav Thackeray clears Mumbai’s first desalination plant. What is Swiss Challenge method? • The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to take the ‘Swiss Challenge Method’ for the project. • The private firm which has first submitted a proposal can be approached directly for negotiations and if they do not agree, then other bidders are called. What are desalination plants? • A desalination plant turns salt water into water that is fit to drink. • The most commonly used technology used for the process is reverse osmosis where an external pressure is applied to push solvents from an area of high- solute concentration to an area of low-solute concentration through a membrane.

32 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The microscopic pores in the membranes allow water molecules through but leave salt and most other impurities behind, releasing clean water from the other side. • These plants are mostly set up in areas that have access to sea water

KALVARI CLASS OF SUBMARINES Context: Indian Navy’s fifth Kalvari-class Diesel Electric attack submarine INS Vagir was launched recently at Mazgaon Dock in Mumbai. The other vessels in the class are INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, INS Vela and INS Vagsheer. About Kalvari Class of Submarines • This class of submarines have Diesel Electric transmission systems and these are primarily attack submarines or ‘hunter-killer’ type which means they are designed to target and sink adversary naval vessels. • They can be used in anti-warship and anti-submarine operations, intelligence gathering and surveillance and naval mine laying. • These submarines are built under Project 75 and their design is based on the Scorpene class of the submarines. • Being constructed by the public sector shipbuilder Mazagon Dock Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai. • Design is based on Scorpene class of submarines designed and developed by French defence major Naval Group formerly DCNS and Spanish state owned entity Navantia.

Facts to Remember: (Just have a brief overview of these facts) Origins of the names of ships mentioned above: 1. Kalvari – means Tiger Shark. 2. Vagir has been named after a Sand Fish, a predatory marine species. 3. Khanderi has been named after an Island Fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji, which played a key role in his Navy. 4. Karanj has also been named after an Island located South of Mumbai.

33 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021

India's submarine fleet: India currently operates one submarine each in nuclear powered Classes of Chakra and Arihant and in addition to 14 submarines belonging to three classes of Diesel Electric category — Kalvari, Shishumar and Sindhughosh.

BULK DRUG PARK - HIMACHAL PRADESH Context: Himachal Pradesh is vying for the allotment of a bulk drug park under a central government scheme. The Central Government is planning to setup three such parks across the country. What are bulk drugs or APIs? • A bulk drug is also called an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). It is the key ingredient of a drug or medicine, which lends it the desired therapeutic effect or produces the intended pharmacological activity. • Take for example- Paracetamol- It is a bulk drug, which acts against pain. It is mixed with binding agents or solvents to prepare the finished pharmaceutical product, ie a paracetamol tablet, capsule or syrup, which is consumed by the patient. How are APIs prepared? • They are prepared from multiple reactions involving chemicals and solvents. • The primary chemical or the basic raw material which undergoes reactions to form an API is called the key starting material, or KSM. • Chemical compounds formed during the intermediate stages during these reactions are called drug intermediates or DIs Why is India promoting bulk drug parks? • India has one of the largest pharmaceutical industries in the world (third largest by volume). But this industry largely depends on other countries, particularly China, for importing APIs, DIs and KSMs. So, any disruptions in those countries would definitely affect the pharmaceutical industries here in India. • For instance, this year, drug manufacturers in India suffered repeated setbacks due to disruption in imports due to Covid 19. Key features of the scheme for promotion of Bulk Drug parks:

34 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The scheme will support three selected parks in the country by providing a one- time grant-in-aid for the creation of common infrastructure facilities. • The grant-in-aid will be 70 per cent of the cost of the common facilities but in the case of Himachal Pradesh and other hill states, it will be 90 per cent. • The Centre will provide a maximum of Rs 1,000 crore per park. • A state can only propose one site, which is not less than a thousand acres in area, or not less than 700 acres in the case of hill states.

ISRO’S SHUKRAYAAN: Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has short-listed 20 space- based experiment proposals for its proposed Venus orbiter mission 'Shukrayaan'. About Shukrayaan: It is a mission to study Venus for more than four years. Scientific objectives: • Investigation of the surface processes and shallow subsurface stratigraphy; and solar wind interaction with Venusian Ionosphere, and studying the structure, composition and dynamics of the atmosphere. • The satellite is planned to be launched onboard GSLV Mk II rocket. The proposed orbit is expected to be around 500 x 60,000 km around Venus. This orbit is likely to be reduced gradually, over several months to a lower apoapsis (farthest point). Why study Venus? • Venus is often described as the “twin sister” of the Earth because of the similarities in size, mass, density, bulk composition and gravity. • It is believed that both planets share a common origin, forming at the same time out of a condensing nebulosity around 4.5 billion years ago. • Venus is around 30 per cent closer to the Sun as compared to Earth resulting in much higher solar flux.

SENTINEL-6 SATELLITE Context: The Copernicus Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite is designed to monitor oceans. • It was recently launched from California aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

35 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • This is a part of the next mission dedicated to measuring changes in the global sea level. What is the mission? • The mission is called the Jason Continuity of Service (Jason-CS) mission. • It is designed to measure the height of the ocean, which is a key component in understanding how the Earth’s climate is changing. • It has been developed jointly by the European Space Agency (ESA), NASA, European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (Eumetsat), the USA’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the EU, with contributions from France’s National Centre for Space Studies (CNES). What will the satellite do? • Provide measurements of global sea-level rise. • Send pulses to the Earth’s surface and measure how long they take to return to it, which will help scientists measure the sea surface height. • Measure water vapour along this path and find its position using GPS and ground-based lasers. Significance of the Mission: This data will allow improvements in both short-term forecasting for weather predictions in the two-to-four week range (hurricane intensity predictions), and long- term forecasting, for instance for seasonal conditions like El Niño and La Niña.

ARIEL SPACE MISSION - ESA Context: The European Space Agency (ESA) has formally adopted Ariel. What is Ariel? • Ariel (Atmospheric Remote-sensing Infrared Exoplanet Large-survey) will be launched in 2029. • It will perform a large-scale survey of over a thousand exoplanets over a period of four years. • The explorer that will study the nature, formation and evolution of exoplanets. Significance:

36 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Ariel is the first mission of its kind dedicated to measuring the chemical composition and thermal structures of hundreds of exoplanets. How exoplanets are found? As per NASA, only a handful of exoplanets have been found using telescopes and the rest have been detected using indirect methods. These include: • Tracking the dimming of a star that happens when a planet passes in front of it. NASA’s Kepler Space telescope uses this method to spot thousands of planets. • Gravitational lensing and the “wobbling method”, which is based on the idea that an orbiting planet will cause its parent star to orbit slightly off-centre.

Why study exoplanets?

The search for exoplanets is driven by the possibility that life may exist beyond Earth and even if there is no evidence for this, scientists believe that their hunt for an answer will reveal details about where humans came from and where we’re headed. Key Points: • As of now the existence of more than 4,000 exoplanets is considered confirmed, while there are thousands of other candidate exoplanets that need further observations to say for certain if they are exoplanets. • Proxima Centauri b is the closest exoplanet to Earth and is four light-years away and inhabits the “habitable zone” of its star, which means that it could possibly have liquid water on its surface.

SPACEX-NASA’S CREW-1 MISSION NASA has certified SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule and the Falcon 9 rocket, making it the first spacecraft certification provided by the space agency. This means SpaceX can now operate regular flights to the space station. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft will lift off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on November 14. What is the Crew-1 mission?

37 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, whose objective is to make access to space easier in terms of its cost, so that cargo and crew can be easily transported to and from the ISS, enabling greater scientific research. • Significantly, Crew-1 will be the first operational flight of the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft on a Falcon 9 rocket to the ISS and is the first of the three scheduled flights scheduled over the course of 2020-2021. About the SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule: It will carry up to four astronauts on NASA missions, maintaining a space station crew of seven to maximize time dedicated to scientific research on the orbiting laboratory.

THIRTY METER TELESCOPE PROJECT. Context: Indian astronomers collaborated with Nobel laureate on Thirty Meter Telescope Project. 2020 Physics Nobel Laureate Prof. Andrea Ghez had worked closely with Indian astronomers on the design of back-end instruments. About TMT: • It is an astronomical observatory with an extremely large telescope (ELT). • It is an international project being funded by scientific organisations of Canada, China, India, Japan and USA. • Planned location: Mauna Kea on the island of Hawaii in the US state of Hawaii. Purpose: The TMT is designed for near-ultraviolet to mid-infrared observations, featuring adaptive optics to assist in correcting image blur Significance: • TMT will enable scientists to study fainter objects far away from us in the Universe, which gives information about early stages of evolution of the Universe. • It will give us finer details of not-so-far-away objects like undiscovered planets and other objects in the Solar System and planets around other stars.

INDIA’S LATEST EARTH OBSERVATION SATELLITE (EOS): Context: EOS-01 launch. This will be ISRO’s first mission since the launch of RISAT- 2BR1, on December 11 last year.

38 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 What is EOS-01? It is an earth observation satellite. EOS-01 is nothing but another Radar Imaging Satellite (RISAT) that will work together with RISAT-2B and RISAT-2BR1 launched last year. Henceforth all the earth observation satellites would be called EOS-series. Application: Land and forest mapping and monitoring, mapping of resources like water or minerals or fishes, weather and climate observations, soil assessment, geospatial contour mapping are all done through earth-observation satellites. Advantages of radar imaging: Radar imaging is unaffected by weather, cloud or fog, or the lack of sunlight. It can produce high-quality images in all conditions and at all times.

GIANT METREWAVE RADIO TELESCOPE (GMRT) The Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope observatory located in Pune has been provided with the prestigious IEEE milestone status. The status was provided to honour its significant technical achievement, services, its excellence as unique product, patent and seminal papers that aim to benefit humanity. • This is the third IEEE milestone recognition being offered to India according to the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics. • The previous two IEEE milestone recognition were awarded to JC Bose in 1895 and CV Raman in 1928. • JC Bose is regarded as the Father of Wireless Communication. Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope • It is an array of thirty fully steerable parabolic radio telescopes operated by National Centre for Radio Astrophysics. • It is a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research located in Mumbai. • One of the major objectives of the telescope was to search for highly red shift 21- line radiation. These radiations are emitted from the primordial neutral hydrogen clouds. The determination of these radiations will help determine the epoch of galaxy formation in the universe.

39 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • In February 2020 the telescope helped in observing the biggest explosion in the history of Universe called the Ophiuchus Supercluster Explosion. What are Hydrogen Clouds? The hydrogen clouds are the interstellar matter where hydrogen occurs in its neutral state rather than its molecular or ionised states. The Hydrogen clouds are detectable at radio wavelengths as they emit characteristic energy at a wavelength of 21 cm. What is Redshifted 21cm Hydrogen Line? • It is an electromagnetic radiation spectral line. • It is created due to the change in energy state of neutral hydrogen atoms. • These electromagnetic radiations fall in the wavelength of microwaves and is usually observed in radio astronomy. • This is because these radio waves can penetrate large clouds of cosmic dust that are opaque to visible light. Ophiuchus Supercluster Explosion • The extremely powerful eruption occurred in the Ophiuchus supercluster about 390 million light years from the Earth. • The eruption occurred due to a supermassive black hole. Ophiuchus Supercluster • It is one of the nearby Galaxy superclusters of the earth. • Supercluster is a a group of galaxies. For instance, milky way is a part of Local Group Galaxy group. The Local Group in turn is a part of the Virgo supercluster. The Virgo supercluster in turn is a part of Laniakea Supercluster. • The superclusters indicate that the galaxies in the universe are not distributed uniformly.

INDIA SKIPS CYCLONES - OCTOBER 2020. The East and West Coasts of India are prone to cyclones. However, this October 2020 missed such events during this monsoon. Key Highlights

40 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Around 80 cyclones are formed around the world every year. Out of these, five are formed in Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal. They are together known as the North Indian Ocean. Madden Julian Oscillation It is an eastward moving cyclic weather along the tropics. It influences rainfall, sea surface temperature, winds. Phases of Madden Julian Oscillation It consists of two phases. Enhanced Rainfall Phase and Suppressed Rainfall Phase. • In enhanced Rainfall Phase: winds at the surface of the earth converge to push the air upwards throughout the atmosphere. This rising air increases condensation and rainfall. • In Suppressed Rainfall Phase: The winds at the top of the atmosphere converge and forces the air to sink down. As air sinks, it dries and suppresses rainfall. How does Madden Julian Oscillation affect the Indian Monsoon? • The El Nino, Indian Ocean Dipole and Madden Julian Oscillation are the atmospheric and oceanic phenomena that affect the weather on a large scale. • The Indian Ocean Dipole pertains only to the Indian Ocean. However, the other two affects weather till mid latitudes. • When the Madden Julian Oscillation is over the Indian Ocean, it brings good rainfall for the Indian subcontinent. On the other hand, when it stays longer over the Pacific, it dries up Indian Monsoon winds.

500 METRE TALL CORAL REEF The scientists have discovered a massive detached coral reef in the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. The reef is taller than the Empire State Building of the United States. About the reef • The newly discovered reef adds to the seven other tall detached reefs in the world. This includes the Raine Island. • Raine Island is the most important Green Sea Turtle nesting area in the world. What are Detached reefs? • Detached are bedded to the ocean floor but are not a part of the main body of the Great Barrier Reef.

41 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • With the newly discovered detached reef, there are totally eight detached reef. • The newly found detached reef has great potential for the new species to evolve. This is because there is lot of deep water between this reef and the next coral community. SuBastian It is the underwater robot that is being deployed by the team in the newly discovered reef. The robot has a remotely controlled arm to collect samples for identification.

RADIO BURST IN MILKY WAY NASA recently reported that it observed a mix of radio signals and X-ray in Milky Way in April 2020. NASA has also reported the spotting of Fast Radio Bursts. This was detected by the CHIME telescope. What are Fast Radio Bursts? Fast Radio Bursts are bright bursts of radio waves produced by astronomical objects with changing magnetic fields. They last only for milli-second and is highly difficult to spot Fast Radio Bursts. Origin of Milky Way Radio Burst • It was spotted in Milky Way Galaxy in April 2020 was from a powerful neutron star referred to as Magnetar. It is located in the constellation Vulpecula. CHIME telescope CHIME is Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment. It is a radio telescope located in Canada. It is a telescope used to receive radio waves. Gamma Ray Bursts They are energetic electromagnetic events occurring in the universe. The Gamma Ray Bursts are resulted from the merger of binary neutron stars.

ASTEROID 16 PSYCHE The NASA has found that 16 Psyche asteroid orbiting between Mars and Jupiter is made of rare metals such as gold, cobalt, platinum, rhenium and iridium. The total worth of the precious metals in the asteroid has been estimated as 10,000 Quadrillion USD by NASA scientists. About Asteroid 16 Psyche

42 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 It is located at around 370 million kilometres away from the earth. It is one of the most massive objects found in the asteroid belt of solar system. The diameter of the asteroid is 140 miles and is potato shaped. Oxidation is constantly occurring at the surface of the asteroid due to solar winds. Solar winds are stream of charged particles rom the hot outer atmosphere of the sun called Corona. How is earth protected from Solar Winds? Earth protects itself from the solar winds with its magnetic field. The magnetic field of the earth deflects most of the charged particles from the sun. However, some of the charged particles get trapped in the Van Allen Radiation belt. There are two such belts around the earth. They are located at an altitude of 640 to 58,000 km. They are in the inner regions of the magnetosphere of the earth. These belts endanger satellite. Significance Metal Asteroids are not commonly found in solar system. Therefore, studying 16 Psyche will help understand the composition of inner layers of the planet. Mission Psyche It is a journey to a unique metal asteroid orbiting the sun between Jupiter and Mars. It has been planned to be launched by 2022. The mission will discover if the Psyche asteroid is a core or an unmelted material. Also, it will characterize topography of Psyche.

IRNSS RECOGNIZED UNDER WWRNS BY IMO The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) has been accepted as a component of the World-Wide Radio Navigation System by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for its operation in the Indian Ocean Region. This will enable the vessels to use IRNSS to obtain position information similar to GLONASS and GPS. Impacts • The navigation system up to 1,500 km in the Indian Ocean waters can now replace GPS. This means that the ships in the Indian Ocean can obtain information from IRNSS for their position at sea.

43 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The entire process to get recognized for the IRNSS took two years. Also, it increases military security of the country. What does the IMO recognition mean? The IMO is an organization of the United Nations. With the recognition, India has become the fourth country after US, Russia and China to have its own navigation systems. With this recognition, the Indian Navigation system is similarly placed along with the popular systems used by vessels for navigation such as GLONASS and GPS. It increases India’s reputation in the Indian Ocean Region. What is IRNSS? It is an independent regional navigational satellite system that was developed by India. It provides accurate position information services to help ships in their navigation. The GPS is Global Positioning System owned by the United States. GLONASS is Global Navigation Satellite System of Russia. The GLONASS satellite was completed in 1995 Who can use IRNSS? All the security agencies can use IRNSS. Also, the merchant vessels including small fishing boats are authorized to use the system. However, IRNSS is only a regional navigational system and not a global navigational system.

INDIA-EUROPEAN UNION COUNTER TERRORISM DIALOGUE On November 19, 2020, India and European Union held Counter Terrorism Dialogue. During the dialogue, the strategic partners condemned terrorism in all forms. Highlights • The dialogue also reviewed threats posed by UN-sanctioned terrorist entities. • India and European Union are to soon conclude the Free Trade Agreement. • During the dialogue, European Union stressed to increase India’s investments in the field of Green Energy. This is because, EU has set a targets of becoming carbon neutrality. Carbon Neutrality is achieving net zero carbon dioxide emission. India-European Union European Union is the largest trading partner of India. The EU accounts to 12.5% of overall trade between India and European Union. ERIC under Indo-European Union Partnership

44 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 ERIC is Euro-India Research Centre that was established under FP-7 research programme of European Union. FP-7 is the largest funding programme of European Union. About Copernicus space Programme of EU It is an Earth Observation Programme of the European Union. Under the programme, European Union provides data and information free of cost. European Union Contribution to LIGO LIGO is Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory. The European Union is a huge contributor of the project. It has granted 14 million Euros in the beginning stages of the project.

PARAM SIDDHI-AI : Param Siddhi is a high-performance computing-artificial intelligence (HPC-AI) supercomputer that was established at C-DAC under the National Supercomputing Mission. It has secured rank 63 in TOP 500 most powerful non-distributed computer system list in the world. Features : Param Siddhi was jointly developed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Department of Science and Technology. The supercomputer has a speed of 5.267 petaflops. It has now got the recognition of non-distributed super computer systems. Param Siddhi was built on NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD reference architecture networking. What are petaflops? It is a unit of computing speed. One petaflop equals to one thousand million million FLoating point Operations (FLOP) per second. In simple words, FLOP is the number of arithmetic operations a machine can do in a second. What are non-distributed computer systems? • In a non-distributed computer system, all the components are in a single location. In case of Param Siddhi, all of its components are located in Pune. • India aims to enable and empower the technology used in creating Param Siddhi across multidisciplinary challenges in agriculture, healthcare, energy, education space, cybersecurity, weather and AI application.

45 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 National Supercomputing Mission India is currently implementing third phase of National Supercomputing Mission. The main aim of the mission is to install 70 supercomputers in the country in three phases. In order to achieve this, the Government of India has allocated Rs 4,500 crores to the mission. The National Supercomputing Mission was announced in 2015. It will support “Digital India” and “Make in India” initiatives of GoI. Under the mission, the first supercomputer of India was installed in IIT-BHU, Varanasi. It was named “PARAM SHIVAY”.

LEONID METEOR SHOWERS The Leonid Meteor Showers are to reach their peak in India between November 17, 2020 and November 18, 2020. For the year 2020, these showers are active between November 6 and November 30. What are Leonid Showers? The Leonids emerge from the comet Tempel-Tuttle. The comet takes 33 years to complete one revolution around the sun. The Leonid meteor showers are bright and are travelling at the speed of 71 km per second. During this year, around 10 to 15 meteors are expected to be seen every hour. The Leonid showers include large meteors than the average meteors. What is a meteor shower? • As the Earth revolves around the sun, it passes through large cosmic debris. • These debris are remnants of comets. Comets are frigid chunks of matter. It leaves dirty trails of ice and rock that linger after the comets have passed. • When the earth passes through these remnants, they are acted upon earth’s gravity and some begin to fall down towards the earth’s surface. • There are several meteor showers occurring throughout the year. According to NASA, over 30 meteor showers occur annually. The Perseid Meteor shower occurs in August every year. Currently Active Meteor Showers: According to the International Meteor Organization, the meteor showers that are currently active are Northern Taurids, Sothern Taurids and Leonids. The Geminids and Ursids meteor showers will occur in December.

46 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Meteor Storm Vs Meteor Shower: When the number of meteors spotted are 1000 per hour, it is said to be meteor storm. When the number of meteors spotted is less than 1000 per hour, it is said to be meteor shower. The last Leonid Meteor storm took place in 2002 CHECK: WORLD’S FIRST CRISPR CAS-9 Tata Medical and Diagnostics Ltd (TataMD) have unveiled “TataMD CHECK” which is a novel diagnostic testing for COVID-19. It is the world’s first CRISPR CaS-9 based diagnostic tool and is powered by FELUDA. TataMD CHECK has been approved by Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). This new diagnostic testing for COVID-19 has been developed within a short span of 100 days of the licensing of technology. Advantages of TataMD CHECK • TataMD CHECK is a simple testing process requiring standard laboratory equipment. TataMD CHECK will be a simple paper-strip test that will give image- based visual results. Small batches of TataMD CHECK testing can be conducted at a time. • This testing will be able to provide high quality and quick results and will not require highly trained staff. The simplicity of testing will make it available in the remote areas also. • Regular quality control using sensors and AI-based result tool will help authorities and patients with the traceability of the sample, evidence of test, and test results accessible anywhere on cloud storage. TataMD CHECK testing kit will be manufactured in Chennai, Tamil Nadu in a quality- controlled production facility. At present, the production plant has a capacity of producing 1 million kits in a month.

OCTOBER 2020 NOBEL PRIZE 2020: THREE SCIENTISTS SHARE PRIZE IN PHYSIOLOGY OR MEDICINE

47 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: Americans Harvey J Alter and Charles M Rice, and British scientist Michael Houghton have been awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine or Physiology for the discovery of the hepatitis C virus. Their Contributions: • The trio’s work helped explain a major source of blood-borne hepatitis that couldn’t be explained by the hepatitis A and B viruses. • Thanks to their discovery, highly sensitive blood tests for the virus are now available and these have essentially eliminated post-transfusion hepatitis in many parts of the world, greatly improving global health. • Their discovery also allowed the rapid development of antiviral drugs directed at hepatitis C. What is Hepatitis C? It is a liver disease. Caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV): the virus can cause both acute and chronic hepatitis. Hepatitis C is a major cause of liver cancer. How is it caused and Spread? • The hepatitis C virus is a bloodborne virus: the most common modes of infection are through exposure to small quantities of blood. • Treatment: Antiviral medicines can cure more than 95% of persons with hepatitis C infection, thereby reducing the risk of death from cirrhosis and liver cancer, but access to diagnosis and treatment is low. • There is currently no effective vaccine against hepatitis C; however, research in this area is ongoing. Types of Hepatitis Viruses: • There are 5 main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. • Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water • Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral contact with infected body fluids. About Nobel Prize in Medicine: • Awarded by the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. • First awarded in 1901.

48 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The award comes with a gold medal and prize money of 10 million Swedish kronor (over USD 1,118,000), courtesy of a bequest left 124 years ago by the prize’s creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel

NOBEL PRIZE IN CHEMISTRY Context: 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry Awarded for CRISPR/Cas9 'Genetic Scissors'. Emmanuelle Charpentier and American Jennifer Doudna share the prize for developing the CRISPR/Cas9 tool to edit the DNA of animals, plants and microorganisms with precision. It is possibly the only time in the history of Nobel Prize that two women have been declared the sole winners. CRISPR : Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats How it works? It locates the specific area in the genetic sequence which has been diagnosed to be the cause of the problem, cuts it out, and replaces it with a new and correct sequence that no longer causes the problem. Details: 1. An RNA molecule is programmed to locate the particular problematic sequence on the DNA strand, and a special protein called Cas9 (genetic scissor) is used to break and remove the problematic sequence. 2. A DNA strand, when broken, has a natural tendency to repair itself. But the auto- repair mechanism can lead to the re-growth of a problematic sequence. Scientists intervene during this auto-repair process by supplying the desired sequence of genetic codes, which replaces the original sequence. 3. It is like cutting a portion of a long zipper somewhere in between, and replacing that portion with a fresh segment. Significance: 1. It's simple: Its simplicity has often been compared to the ‘Cut-Copy-Paste’ mechanism in any word processor (or probably, the equally common ‘Find-Replace’ mechanism). 2. Potential applications: Its uses can potentially transform human beings, and all other life forms. It can potentially eliminate genetic, and other, diseases, multiply

49 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 agricultural production, correct deformities, and even open up the more contentious possibilities of producing ‘designer babies’, and bringing cosmetic perfection. 3. Efficient: Because the entire process is programmable, it has a remarkable efficiency, and has already brought almost miraculous results. Genetic sequences of disease- causing organisms can be altered to make them ineffective. 4. For Agriculture: Genes of plants can be edited to make them withstand pests, or improve their tolerance to drought or temperature.

GYAN CIRCLE VENTURES: Context: Union Education Minister virtually inaugurates Gyan Circle Ventures. What are Gyan Circle Ventures? They are Technology Business Incubators (TBI). Funded by the Ministry of Information Technology (MeitY). Led by the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Sri City (Chittoor), Andhra Pradesh. Key features: • Gyan Circle Ventures would function as a Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0) incubation center. • They will serve as a hub for innovation and startups by providing support, in various phases, via investments, infrastructure and mentoring.

ELECTRONIC VACCINE INTELLIGENCE NETWORK (EVIN): Context: The eVIN network is being repurposed for the delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine. About eVIN: The eVIN is an innovative technological solution aimed at strengthening immunization supply chain systems across the country. • This is being implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM) by the Ministry of Health and Family • It aims to provide real-time information on vaccine stocks and flows, and storage temperatures across all cold chain points in the country. Benefits of eVIN: • It has helped create a big data architecture that generates actionable analytics encouraging data-driven decision-making and consumption-based planning.

50 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It helps in maintaining optimum stocks of vaccines leading to cost savings. Vaccine availability at all times has increased to 99% in most health centres in India. • While instances of stock-outs have reduced by 80%, the time taken to replenish stocks has also decreased by more than half, on an average.

FIRST ROOM-TEMPERATURE SUPERCONDUCTOR: Context: Scientists have reported the discovery of the first room-temperature superconductor, after more than a century of waiting. How? • The superconductor was formed by squeezing carbon, hydrogen and sulfur between the tips of two diamonds and hitting the material with laser light to induce chemical reactions. At a pressure about 2.6 million times that of Earth’s atmosphere, and temperatures below about 15° C, the electrical resistance vanished. • However, the new material’s superconducting superpowers appear only at extremely high pressures, limiting its practical usefulness. What are Superconductors? Superconductors transmit electricity without resistance, allowing current to flow without any energy loss. When superconductivity was discovered in 1911, it was found

only at temperatures close to absolute zero (−273.15° C). OSIRIS-REX AND ASTEROID BENNU: Context: On October 20th, NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft briefly touched asteroid Bennu, from where it is meant to collect samples of dust and pebbles and deliver them back to Earth in 2023. What is the OSIRIS-REx mission? • OSIRIS-Rex stands for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer This is NASA’s first mission meant to return a sample from the ancient asteroid.

51 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The departure window for the mission will open up in 2021, after which it will take over two years to reach back to Earth. Asteroid

Bennu: The asteroid was discovered by a team from the NASA-funded Lincoln Near- Earth Asteroid Research team in 1999. Scientists believe that it was formed in the first 10 million years of the solar system’s formation, implying that it is roughly 4.5 billion years old. • Because of its high carbon content, the asteroid reflects about four per cent of the light that hits it, which is very low when compared with a planet like Venus, which reflects about 65 per cent of the light that hits it. Earth reflects about 30 per cent. • It classified as a Near Earth Object (NEO), might strike the Earth in the next century, between the years 2175 and 2199.

WATER ON THE MOON: Context: • Water molecules, discovered in Clavius Crater in the Moon’s southern hemisphere. • And it is the first time water has been detected on the sunlit side, showing it is not restricted to the shadowy regions. • This was confirmed by NASA’s Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). Significance of the discovery: • Apart from being a marker of potential life, water is a precious resource in deep space. • For astronauts landing on the Moon, water is necessary not only to sustain life but also for purposes such as generating rocket fuel. • If space explorers can use the Moon’s resources, it means they need to carry less water from Earth. How could the water have formed? • Space rocks carrying small amounts of water could have bombarded the Moon.

52 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Alternatively, the Sun’s solar wind could have carried hydrogen, which then reacted with minerals in the lunar soil to create hydroxyl, which later transformed into water. • About SOFIA: SOFIA is a modified Boeing 747SP jetliner that flies at altitudes up to 45,000 feet. It is a joint project of NASA and the German Aerospace Center. • SOFIA’s mission is to look at dark and distant objects. The Moon, on the other hand, is so close and bright that it fills the SOFIA guide camera’s entire field of view. Chandrayaan-1 and water discovery: ISRO's Chandrayaan-1 mission has already provided evidence for the existence of water. • In 2009, the Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) instrument aboard Chandrayaan-1 found water molecules in the polar regions. What next? SOFIA will look for water in additional sunlit locations to learn more about how the water is produced, stored, and moved across the Moon. Meanwhile, NASA’s Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) will carry out a mission to create the first water resource maps of the Moon.

AQUAPONICS Recently, a pilot Aquaponics facility developed by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Mohali was inaugurated. What is Hydroponics? • Hydroponics is the cultivation of plants without using soil. In the absence of soil, water provides nutrients, hydration, and oxygen to plant life. • This system fosters rapid growth, stronger yields, and superior quality. • When a plant is grown in soil, its roots are perpetually searching for the necessary nutrition to support the plant. If a plant’s root system is exposed directly to water and nutrition, the plant does not have to exert any energy in sustaining itself. About Aquaponics • Aquaponics is a combination of aquaculture, which is growing fish and other aquatic animals, and hydroponics

53 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Aquaponics uses these two in a symbiotic combination. Fish waste from the aquaculture portion of the system is broken down by bacteria (microbes or nitrifying bacteria) into dissolved nutrients (e.g. nitrogen and phosphorus compounds) that plants utilize to grow in a hydroponic unit. • This nutrient removal improves water quality for the fish and also decreases overall water consumption by limiting the amount released as effluent. Benefits of Aquaponics • In aquaponics, there is no toxic run-off from either hydroponics or aquaculture. • It is an excellent way of producing protein foods such as fish and vegetables in both impoverished areas (to support food security), as well as in areas where there is a high demand for good quality produce. • Need for inputs is low once the system has been set-up, just some simple systems’ maintenance along with fish, fish feed, seeds (or seedlings) and water to replenish the unit. Limitations of Aquaponics: • Aquaponics combines the risks of both aquaculture and hydroponics, and thus expert assessment and consultation is essential. • Commercial aquaponics is not appropriate in all locations and Large-scale systems require careful consideration before financial investment. • Aquaponic systems are characterized by a broader range of microflora than conventional hydroponic systems therefore pest and disease management need further improvement.

GLOBAL TB REPORT 2020 Recently, World Health Organization (WHO) released Global Tuberculosis (TB) report 2020. About the report • Reports aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of the status of the TB epidemic, and of progress in the response to the epidemic – at global, regional and country levels – in the context of global commitments and strategies. • WHO has published a global TB report every year since 1997.

54 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • In 2020, data were reported by 198 countries and territories that accounted for more than 99% of the world’s population and estimated number of TB cases.

Key findings of the report:

• Global Findings : Globally, an estimated 10.0 million people fell ill with TB in 2019, slowly declining in recent years. • Approximately 1.4 million people died from TB-related illnesses in 2019. TB is the leading cause for death of people with HIV • Many countries reported the use of GeneXpert machines for COVID-19 testing instead of testing for TB. Health staff was reassigned in national TB programmes to COVID-19 related duties. About Tuberculosis (TB)

• TB is caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that most often affect the lungs. • It spreads from

person to person through cough, sneeze or spit.

• It typically affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also affect other organs (extrapulmonary TB). Global commitments and efforts

WHO End TB Strategy: • 80% reduction in the TB incidence rate (new and relapse cases per 100 000 population per year) by 2030, compared with 2015 • 2020 milestone: 20% reduction; 2025 milestone: 50% reduction o 90% reduction in the annual number of TB deaths by 2030, compared with 2015 • 2020 milestone: 35% reduction; 2025 milestone: 75% reduction o No households affected by TB face catastrophic costs by 2020.

• SDG Target 3.3: By 2030, end the epidemics of AIDS, TB, malaria and neglected tropical diseases, and combat hepatitis, waterborne diseases and other communicable diseases

• Moscow Declaration to End TB: It is commitment to increase multisectoral action and enhance accountability in the global TB response towards ending tuberculosis (TB) by 2030.

55 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 India Specific Findings • India registered a decline in the notification of tuberculosis (TB) cases by about 85% in 2020, after the imposition of COVID-19 induced lockdown. • Only 40 cases were registered for every 100 cases of TB in India due to a decline in access to TB services during lockdown. • The weekly and monthly number of TB case notifications fell by more than 50% between the end of March and late April in India, following the imposition of a national lockdown. • India has the highest TB burden in the world accounting for 26% of cases of the global total. • Huge percentage of potential cases remaining out of the TB registration net could amplify the problems many fold for India.

RAISE 2020, Artificial Intelligence Summit: On October 5, 2020, PM Modi is to inaugurate the Global Virtual Summit on Artificial Intelligence. The summit is organised by Government of India in partnership with academia and industry. RAISE is Responsible AI for Social Empowerment, 2020. Highlights In June 2020, India joined the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence along with US, Australia, UK, France, Germany, and Canada. Key Features of the Summit • The summit is held to exchange ideas of Artificial Intelligence for inclusion, social empowerment, transformation in key areas such as agriculture, health care, education and smart mobility. • It calls for global participation in government representatives, academia and opinion makers. • The summit aims to encourage discussion on public infrastructure, transform society and build responsible Artificial Intelligence for social empowerment. • The summit will add 957 billion USD to the Indian economy by 2035. Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence • India is a founding member of GPAI. It supports human centric and responsible development and use of AI. In June 2020, the initiative was hosted by OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) in Paris.

56 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The initiative will bridge the gap between theory and practice of Artificial Intelligence. This is to be done by supporting research and applied activities related to AI. • The GPAI will bring together international organizations and partners from civil societies, academia and society to promote responsible evolution of AI. Artificial Intelligence It is a branch of Computer Science that is concerned in making computers behave like humans. The technology provides ability to the machines to perform tasks such as perceiving, thinking, learning and problem solving.

SS KALPANA CHAWLA CARGO SPACECRAFT On October 2, 2020, NASA launched a commercial spacecraft named after Indian Origin deceased NASA Astronaut “Kalpana Chawla”. The spacecraft carried 4 tonnes of cargo including refined radishes for the International Space Station. The company has named the space craft after Indian born astronaut Kalpana Chawla who died along with six other astronauts in 2003 Columbia Space Shuttle tragedy. About the Spacecraft The spacecraft carried a new space toilet called the Universal Waste Management System. The 23 million USD commode is to be tested for future use in the International Space Station. It is 65% smaller and 40% lighter than the current toilet at the International Space Station. It also carried a radish-growing experiment to learn about survival and feasibility of growing plants in space. The space craft has also carried cancer treatment technique requisites to test cancer drugs in micro gravity conditions. Kalpana Chawla • Chawla was the first India-born woman to enter space. She also flew in 1997 as a primary robotic arm operator and also as a mission specialist. The Columbia spacecraft disintegrated during its return to earth that led to the death of the crew. The hot plasma entered the wing of the aircraft resulting in loss of control. • Chawla is regarded as the National Hero of India.

57 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The Government of Karnataka instituted Kalpana Chawla Award in 2004 to recognise young women scientists. An Eoan asteroid in the outer Asteroid belt of solar system has been named after Chawla. • The meteorological series of satellites of India was renamed as “Kalpana” in 2003 by the then PM Vajpayee.

NEW ORGAN IN THROAT DISCOVERED The scientists in Netherlands have discovered a new organ in human throat during a research on prostate cancer. The scientists of the Netherlands Cancer Institute discovered a set of salivary glands in the upper part of the throat,they have named the organ Tubarial salivary glands. Key highlights • The newly discovered organ is about 1.5 inches in length and is located over a piece of cartilage called torus tubarius. • According to the scientist the main function of the organ is to lubricate and moisten the upper throat. It is located right behind the nose and mouth. • They have been named as Tubarial glands in reference to their anatomical location. The characteristics of the gland is similar to that of the salivary glands. About the discovery • The new organ was discovered when the scientist were studying about Cancer cells using PSMA PET-CT Technology. The gland was found in more than hundred patients. • The organ cannot be seen through conventional methods of medical imaging such as CT scans, ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). • It was now discovered through Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Imaging using positron emission tomography.

CABINET APPROVES INDIA-NIGERIA SPACE COOPERATION On October 21, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Indian Space Research Organisation and the National Space Research and Development agency of Nigeria. About the MoU

58 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The agreements were signed in June 2020 at Bengaluru and in August 2020 at Abuja Nigeria. The agreements enable cooperation between the countries in the areas such as • satellite communication • satellite based navigation • Remote Sensing of the earth • space systems and ground systems • Practical applications of space Technology includes techniques and geospatial tools. Under the agreement a joint working group is to be set up by drawing members from the national space research and development agency of Nigeria and the ISRO. Impact The agreement will provide impetus to explore new research activities. It will also help to explore possible applications in the field of Remote sensing of the earth satellite, Navigation satellite, communication space science and Exploration of outer space. India Nigeria • Nigeria is rich and oil. According to Nigeria India has recently replaced the United States as its largest crude oil Importer. Around 20 to 25 percentage of India’s domestic oil demand is covered by Nigeria. Therefore, Nigeria is highly important to India. • The bilateral trade between India and Nigeria is around 10 billion USD per annum. Several Indian Oil Companies are involved in oil drilling operations in Nigeria. There are plans to setup refineries in Nigeria. • Nigeria is the largest Oil supplier to India in Africa. India imports 400 mm barrels of oil from Nigeria per day. Recent developments In September 2020, India and Nigeria agreed to deepen their cooperation in piracy, terrorism and insurgency. The countries also agreed to strength cooperation in mutual legal assistance, extradition Treaty and transfer of sentenced persons. In July 2020, India donated 50 million USD of essential medicines to Nigeria to fight COVID

BEPI COLOMBO - MERCURY

59 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The BepiColombo Space Craft was launched jointly by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and European Space Agency to planet Mercury. The space craft has now crossed Venus on its way to Mercury. Highlights • The mission BepiColombo consists of two satellites launched together. They are Mercury Planetary Orbiter and Mercury Magentospheric Orbiter. The two satellites will separate on arriving Mercury. • The mission will perform study of mercury. This will include characterisation of magnetosphere, magnetic field in both interior and on the surface of the mercury. • The spacecraft Bepicolombo was launched on Ariane 5 rocket. • It will arrive Mercury in 2025. • The Mission is a part of the Horizon 2000+ Programme of European Space Agency and was the last mission of the programme. About Bepi colombo It will characterise the solid and liquid cores of mercury. It will also perform magnetic and gravitational field mappings. Using the Gamma ray and neutron spectrometers provided by Russia, the mission will verify existence of water in the polar craters of Mercury. These craters are in permanent shadow from the sun’s rays. Objectives of the Mission • To study the origin and evolution of Mercury • To investigate the exosphere of Mercury, its composition, dynamics • To study the magnetosphere of mercury • To verify Relativity Theory of Einstein

OPPOSITION EFFECT In October 2020, Mars is to look bigger and brighter due to ‘Opposition Effect’. What is Opposition Effect? • It is the circumstance where two celestial bodies will appear in opposite directions in the sky. For instance, a full moon is said to be in opposition to the sun. The earth is then approximately between them.

60 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The opposition position of the planet is the best time to study the planet as it is the nearest point to the Earth. The planets such as mercury and venus that are smaller than the earth can never be in opposition to the sun. • Superior planets are those planets in the solar system that are further from the sun than the earth. These are Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. Mercury and Venus are the inferior planets. Opposition Effect on Mars The opposition position of Mars occurs when the sun and mars are on opposite sides of the earth. The earth passes between the sun and the mars for every 26 months. These three celestial bodies are in a straight line during this occurrence. According to NASA, Mars made its closest approach to the earth in 2003. It wont be this close till 2287. This is because the orbits of Mars and Earth are not perfectly circular and their shapes change because of gravitational pulling by other planets. Inferences Due to Opposition Effect, in the month of October, Mars will become the third brightest object in the night sky outshining Jupiter.

INAI INITIATIVE The Telangana Government along with Intel India will launch artificial intelligence research centre in Hyderabad. This was announced during the inaugural session of artificial intelligence 2020 virtual Summit held on October 13, 2020. The research centre is to be launched in collaboration with International Institute of Information Technology and Public Health foundation of India. The centre has been named INAI. What is INAI? INAI is INtel AI. AI is Artificial Intelligence. It is a national level Research Centre. The centre will take initiative to apply artificial intelligence to population scale problems in India. The centre will focus on identifying and solving challenges in smart mobility segment and Healthcare. National strategy for Artificial Intelligence The national strategy for Artificial Intelligence was created by Niti Aayog. Under this Niti Aayog identified five core areas that required the application of artificial

61 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 intelligence. They are Health Care, agriculture, education, smart cities and infrastructure and smart mobility and transportation. Under Health Care the artificial intelligence based radiomics is an emerging field and the strategy tends to focus on this. Kamakoti committee: • The committee was set up to explore possibilities to leverage artificial intelligence across various fields. The committee recommended to set up digital data banks. • It also recommended to set up National artificial intelligence mission. • Also the committee wanted the Government of India to make sure there is enough availability of funds for research and development of artificial intelligence. Challenges in India in the field of artificial intelligence • Lack of enabling data ecosystem • Inadequate availability of Manpower and artificial intelligence expertise • Unclear security and privacy regulations • Unattractive intellectual property regime • Low intensity of artificial intelligence research

SEPTEMBER 2020 WORLD’S LARGEST SOLAR TREE:

62 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: CSIR-CMERI has developed the World’s Largest Solar Tree, which is installed at CSIR-CMERI Residential Colony, Durgapur. Key points: • The installed capacity of the Solar Tree is above 11.5 kWp. • It has the annual capacity to generate 12,000-14,000 units of Clean and Green Power. • The Tree has been designed in a manner to ensure maximum exposure of each Solar PV Panel to Sunlight and also creation of the least amount of shadow area beneath.

Significance and potential of solar trees:

• These Solar Trees can be aligned with Agriculture for substituting price-volatile fossil fuels. • Each Solar Tree has the potential to save 10-12 tons of CO2 emissions being released into the atmosphere as Greenhouse Gases when compared with fossil fuel fired energy generation. • Besides, the surplus generated power can be fed into an Energy Grid. • The CSIR-CMERI developed solar powered e-Suvidha Kiosks may also be connected to the Solar Trees for real-time access to the vast majority of agricultural database as well as to the eNAM i.e. National Agricultural MarketPlace for instant and real-time access to an unified online market.

ENTREPRENEURS IN RESIDENCE (EIR) PROGRAMME: Context: A brochure featuring Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIR) under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) programme was recently launched. What is Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIR) Programme? • It is under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing innovations (NIDHI) of Department of Science and Technology. • It supports aspiring or budding entrepreneur of considerable potential for pursuing a promising technology business idea over a period up to 18 months

63 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 with a subsistence grant up to Rs 30000 per month with a maximum cap for total support of Rs 3.6 lakh to each EIR over a maximum of 18 months.

NATIONAL BIOPHARMA MISSION (NBM): Why in News? • The National Immunogenicity & Biologics Evaluation Center (NIBEC) for assessing clinical immunogenicity of viral vaccines was inaugurated virtually recently. • It has been established jointly by Bharati Vidyapeeth University through its constituent unit Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA) and BIRAC-DBT, Government of India through National Biopharma Mission. Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) • It is a not-for-profit Public Sector Enterprise, set up by Department of Biotechnology (DBT) as an Interface Agency to strengthen and empower the emerging Biotech enterprise to undertake strategic research and innovation, addressing nationally relevant product development needs.

National Biopharma Mission (NBM):

• It is an industry-academia collaborative mission for accelerating biopharmaceutical development in the country. It was launched in 2017 at a total cost of Rs 1500 crore and is 50% co-funded by World Bank loan • It is being implemented by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC). • Under this Mission, the Government has launched Innovate in India (i3) programme to create an enabling ecosystem to promote entrepreneurship and indigenous manufacturing in the biopharma

HYPERSONIC MISSILE CLUB: Context: • India has become the fourth country after the United States, Russia and China to develop and successfully test hypersonic technology.

64 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • India recently tested the Hypersonic Test Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV). Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Significance: This indigenous technology will pave the way towards development of missiles travelling at six times the speed of sound (Mach 6). Hypersonic Test Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) The HSTDV is an unmanned scramjet demonstration aircraft for hypersonic speed flight. How it works? The HSTDV cruise vehicle is mounted on a solid rocket motor, which will take it to a required altitude, and once it attains certain mach numbers for speed, the cruise vehicle will be ejected out of the launch vehicle. Subsequently, the scramjet engine will be ignited automatically. Where can it be used? • It has utility for long-range cruise missiles of the future. • It can be used for launching satellites at low cost too. What are cruise missiles? • A cruise missile either locates its target or has a preset target. It navigates using a guidance system — such as inertial or beyond visual range satellite GPS guidance — and comprises a payload and aircraft propulsion system. • Cruise missiles can be launched from land, sea or air for land attacks and anti- shipping purposes, and can travel at subsonic, supersonic and hypersonic speeds. • Since they stay relatively close to the surface of the earth, they cannot be detected easily by antimissile systems, and are designed to carry large payloads with high precision. • Ballistic missiles, meanwhile, are launched directly into the upper layers of the earth’s atmosphere. • They travel outside the atmosphere, where the warhead detaches from the missile and falls towards a predetermined target. • They are rocket-propelled self-guided weapons systems which can carry conventional or nuclear munitions. They can be launched from aircraft, ships and submarines, and land.

65 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 What is ICBMs? • Intercontinental ballistic missiles or ICBMs are guided missiles which can deliver nuclear and other payloads. ICBMs have a minimum range of 5,500 km, with maximum ranges varying from 7,000 to 16,000 km. • Only a handful of countries, including Russia, United States, China, France, India and North Korea, have ICBM capabilities.

FIRST WORLD SOLAR TECHNOLOGY SUMMIT: First World Solar Technology Summit (WSTS) was organized on 8th September, 2020. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), as the convenor of ISA Global Leadership Task Force on Innovation, worked with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in organizing the summit. The conference saw ISA signing four agreements, signalling its intent to focus on key areas of the solar energy sector. 1. A partnership agreement between the Union Ministry of Renewable Energy, the World Bank and ISA on One World, One Sun, One Grid. 2. A partnership between the Global Green Growth Institute and ISA on the promotion of a million solar pumps. . About the International Solar Alliance (ISA) • It is an Indian initiative, which was launched jointly by Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi and H.E. François Hollande, President of France on 30 November 2015 in Paris, France on the side-lines of the 21st Conference of Parties (CoP 21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. What it does? As an action-oriented organisation, the ISA brings together countries with rich solar potential to aggregate global demand, thereby reducing prices through bulk purchase, facilitating the deployment of existing solar technologies at scale, and promoting collaborative solar R&D and capacity building. When it entered into force?

66 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • When the ISA Framework Agreement entered into force on December 6th, 2017, ISA formally became a de-jure treaty based International Intergovernmental Organization, headquartered at Gurugram, India.

Membership:

• All members of the United Nations can join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) under the recently amended ISA Framework Agreement. • As on 30 July 2020, 87 Countries have signed the Framework Agreement of the ISA and of these 67 have deposited their instruments of ratification.

NIMHANS develops new Indian Brain Templates, brain atlas: The neuroscientists from NIMHANS studied over 500 brain scans of Indian patients to develop five sets of Indian brain templates and a brain atlas for five age groups covering late childhood to late adulthood (six to 60 years). Why this is significant? • Currently, we are using Montreal Neurological Index (MNI) template. It is based on Caucasian brains and was made by averaging 152 healthy brain scans from just a small slice of the city’s population in North America. But Caucasian brains are different from Asian brains. • But, India will now have a scale that will measure an Indian brain.

Benefits of Indian Brain Templates and atlas: • They will provide more precise reference maps for areas of interest in individual patients with neurological disorders like strokes, brain tumours, and dementia. • They will also help pool information more usefully in group studies of the human brain and psychological functions, aiding our understanding of psychiatric illnesses like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism, substance dependence, schizophrenia, and mood disorders.

POSTAGE STAMP RELEASED ON A-SAT:

67 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 A Customized My Stamp on India’s First Anti Satellite Missile (A-SAT) launch was released by the Department of Posts on the occasion of Engineers Day. Background: • Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted an Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile test ‘Mission Shakti’ from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha on 27th March 2019. • A DRDO developed A-SAT Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a ‘Hit to Kill’ mode. • The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Significance: India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised and modern capability, and Entire effort is indigenous. • Till now, only the US, Russia and China had the capability to hit a live target in space.

Does the test create space debris?

The test was done in the lower atmosphere to ensure that there is no space debris. Whatever debris that is generated will decay and fall back onto the earth within weeks. What is the international law on weapons in outer space? • The principal international Treaty on space is the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. The Outer Space Treaty prohibits only weapons of mass destruction in outer space, not ordinary weapons. • India is a signatory to this treaty, and ratified it in 1982.

HYDROGEN-ENRICHED COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (HCNG) Why in News? • Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has allowed use of H-CNG (18% mix of hydrogen) in CNG engines. • A notification for amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989, for inclusion of H-CNG as an automotive fuel has already been published.

Background:

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The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has also developed specifications (IS 17314:2019) of Hydrogen enriched Compressed Natural Gas (H-CNG) for automotive purposes, as a fuel.

What is HCNG?

The blending of hydrogen with CNG provides a blended gas termed as HCNG. • It can be used in place of gasoline, diesel fuel and propane (C3H8) / LPG and its combustion produces fewer undesirable gases. Advantages of HCNG: • HCNG reduces emissions of CO up to 70%. • Enables up to 5 % savings in fuel. • First step towards future Hydrogen economy. • Engines can be calibrated to release lower amounts of NO. • Engines need minimum modification to run on HCNG. • Ideal fuel for high load applications and heavy-duty vehicles. • Better performance due to higher Octane rating of H2. Disadvantages of using HCNG: • Determining the most optimized H2/ NG (Natural Gas) ratio. • It requires new infrastructures for preparing HCNG. • Many steps need to be taken for commercializing it at a large scale. • Current cost of H2 is more than the cost of Natural Gas. So, HCNG’s cost is more than CNG.

MERGER OF TWO BLACK HOLES: Context: Gravitational waves from a collision between two black holes were detected in 2019 at the gravitational wave observatory LIGO (United States) and the detector Virgo (Italy). It was calculated to have come from roughly 17 billion light years away, and from a time when the universe was about half its age. What's unique about this merger?

69 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 One of the two parent black holes was of an unusual “intermediate mass”, which challenges traditional scientific knowledge. It is the first “intermediate mass” black hole ever observed. What are Gravitational Waves? • They are invisible ripples that form when a star explodes in a supernova; when two big stars orbit each other; and when two black holes merge. • Travelling at the speed of light, gravitational waves squeeze and stretch anything in their path. • Proposed by Albert Einstein in his General Theory of Relativity over a century ago. • It was only in 2015, however, that the first gravitational wave was actually detected — by LIGO. What is a black hole? • A black hole is an object in space that is so dense and has such strong gravity that no matter or light can escape its pull. Because no light can escape, it is black and invisible. • There’s a boundary at the edge of a black hole called the event horizon, which is the point of no return — any light or matter that crosses that boundary is sucked into the black hole. It would need to travel faster than the speed of light to escape, which is impossible. LIGO • It is a massive observatory for detecting cosmic gravitational waves and for carrying out experiments. • The objective is to use gravitational-wave observations in astronomical studies. • The project operates three gravitational-wave (GW) detectors. Two are at Hanford, Washington, north-western US, and one is at Livingston in Louisiana, south-eastern US. • The proposed LIGO India project aims to move one advanced LIGO detector from Hanford to India. About LIGO- India project: It is piloted by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Department of Science and Technology (DST).

70 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The LIGO-India project will be jointly coordinated and executed by three Indian research institutions: the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune and Department of Atomic Energy organisations: Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), Gandhinagar and the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore. Benefits for India: 1. The project will bring unprecedented opportunities for scientists and engineers to dig deeper into the realm of gravitational wave and take global leadership in this new astronomical frontier. 2. The LIGO-India project will also bring considerable opportunities in cutting-edge technology for the Indian industry which will be engaged in the construction of the eight-km long beam tube at ultra-high vacuum on a levelled terrain. 3. With its establishment, India will join the global network of gravitational wave detectors. 4. Establishing an observatory in India also assumes importance because the further the distance between the observatories, the greater will be the accuracy in locating gravity waves.

SOLAR CYCLE 25 Context: Scientists from NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have announced their predictions about the new solar cycle, called Solar Cycle 25, which they believe has begun. Key findings: • The solar minimum for Solar Cycle 25 occurred in December 2019. • Scientists predict a solar maximum (middle of the solar cycle) will be reached by July 2025. • This solar cycle will be as strong as the last solar cycle, which was a “below- average cycle” but not without risks. But first, What is a solar cycle?

71 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The Sun is a huge ball of electrically-charged hot gas. This charged gas moves, generating a powerful magnetic field. This magnetic field goes through a cycle, called the solar cycle. • Every 11 years or so, the Sun's magnetic field completely flips. This means that the Sun's north and south poles switch places. Then it takes about another 11 years for the Sun’s north and south poles to flip back again. So far, astronomers have documented 24 such cycles, the last one ended in 2019.

How do scientists track solar activity?

• Scientists track a solar cycle by using sunspots. The beginning of a solar cycle is typically characterised by only a few sunspots and is therefore referred to as a solar minimum.

What is solar minimum and maximum?

• One way to track the solar cycle is by counting the number of sunspots. • The beginning of a solar cycle is a solar minimum, or when the Sun has the least sunspots. Over time, solar activity—and the number of sunspots—increases. • The middle of the solar cycle is the solar maximum, or when the Sun has the most sunspots. As the cycle ends, it fades back to the solar minimum and then a new cycle begins. Impacts of Solar Cycle on Earth: • Solar eruptions can cause lights in the sky, called aurora, or impact radio communications. Extreme eruptions can even affect electricity grids on Earth. • Solar activity can affect satellite electronics and limit their lifetime. • Radiation can be dangerous for astronauts who do work on the outside of the International Space

NASA’S SONIFICATION PROJECT:

72 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: The sonification project is led by the Chandra X-ray Center in collaboration with NASA’s Universe of Learning Program (UoL). The objective of the project is to transform data from astronomical images into audio. This project allows audiences — including visually-impaired communities — to experience space through data. What is data sonification? It refers to the use of sound values to represent real data. Simply put, it is the auditory version of data visualisation. How did NASA translate astronomical images into sound? • NASA’s distant telescopes in space collect inherently digital data, in the form of ones and zeroes, before converting them into images. • The images are essentially visual representations of light and radiation of different wavelengths in space, that can’t be seen by the human eye. • The Chandra project has created a celestial concert of sorts by translating the same data into sound. Pitch and volume are used to denote the brightness and position of a celestial object or phenomenon. • Ready projects: So far, the astronomers behind Project Chandra have released three examples made using data collected from some of the most distinct features in the sky — the Galactic Centre, Cassiopeia A, and Pillars of Creation Nebula. Significance of the project: • With this data sonification project, users can now experience different phenomena captured in astronomical images as an aural experience. • The birth of a star, a cloud of dust or even a black hole can now be ‘heard’ as a high or low pitched sound.

NEUTRINO OBSERVATORIES On September 21, 2020, the Union Minister of state of North Eastern region Dr Jitendra Singh in a written reply said that around 21 neutrino observatory or to be set up in the country. Highlights According to the information provided by the Minister the observatory is or to be located as follows

73 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Six observatories in Karnataka • Four observatories in Uttarakhand. • One observatory in each of the following states that are to be operated by the Indian Institute of geomagnetism • Andhra Pradesh • Assam • Tamil Nadu • Gujarat • Meghalaya • Maharashtra • Jammu and Kashmir • Rajasthan • Uttar Pradesh • Puducherry • Andaman and Nicobar Island Indian neutrino observatory • The observatory is being constructed in Bodi West Hills located in Theni district of Tamil Nadu. This observatory will study only atmospheric neutrinos. The Solar neutrinos on other hand have much lower energy and thus more powerful detectors are required. • The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research is the nodal agency implementing the project. The observatory is jointly built by the department of Science and Technology and Department of Atomic Energy. • The laboratory will require adequate shielding to the detector. This is to seal the vibrations created from anthropogenic and earthly activities. Concerns raised The observatory is constructed underground. According to the environmentalists, the explosions, blasts and vibrations from the construction will badly affected the ecologically fragile Western Ghats. The Mathikettan Shola National Park (Idukki, Kerala ) is very close to the observatory and will face adverse impacts. What is a neutrino?

74 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Neutrino is a tiny elementary particle. It is not a part of the atom. Neutrinos are of tiny mass and have no charge. They interact with other matter particles very weakly. Hence, the information carried by them from distant galaxies and stars are not disturbed by other astronomical bodies.

SQUARE KILOMETRE ARRAY • The square kilometre array also called the SKA, an international initiative building the world’s largest radio telescope is to have control systems designed and built by Tata Consultancy Services, an IT company based in India. Several other multiple leading Indian scientific Institutions are also contributing to the project under the leadership of TCS. • The radio telescope project is funded by 15 member countries. This includes India and China as well. • The NCRA-TIFR is developing the central nervous system of the telescope, that is, the control systems that will power the telescope. • The low frequency array of the telescope is to be built in Western Australia. What are radio telescopes? The radio telescopes are those telescopes that detect radio waves. About the project • The project is established in South Africa and Australia in the southern hemisphere because the view of Milky Way galaxy is the best in here. • The project is expected to investigate cosmic magnetism. Cosmic magnetism is still a mystery to astronomers. Astronomers are struggling to find answers to questions about origin and evolution of cosmic magnetism. • However, it is clear that cosmic magnetism plays an important role in interstellar and intergalactic space. What is cosmic magnetism? • It refers to the magnetic fields that are present in stars, planets, galaxies and in the universe at large. Without magnetism around the earth life would not be possible in the planet. This feature is found around every celestial body and is referred to as cosmic magnetism.

75 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Thus, it is essential to study about cosmic magnetism and the SKA project that aims to study the phenomenon gains its importance.

VAIBHAV SUMMIT The Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to inaugurate VAIBHAV Summit on October 2, 2020. VAIBHAV is Vaishwik Bharatiya Vaigyanik Summit. Highlights The summit is an initiative by Science and technology experts spread all over the world and working in academic organisations of India. It enables a deliberation on thought process and research and development culture focusing on problem solving approach. It will bring out a road map enabling knowledge of Global Indian researches towards emerging challenges. The Summit is being conducted under the following theme • To bring Indian luminaries all over the world it to discuss and debate about collaboration mechanism with their counterparts in India. • To bring together diverse academic cultures. • To strengthen aatma nirbhar Bharat initiative. Objective • The Summit will bring the non resident Indian scientists on a single platform. • It will help them to debate on methods and collaboration mechanism to strengthen Science and Technology base in the country. • The Summit will also add new dimensions to Atal innovation mission.

About the Summit • In the current COVID-19 scenario the key factors to boost research and development are complementary expansion, Cooperative development and interdisciplinary extension. • The Vaibhav summit is to work on these three factors. More than 5500 academicians from 500 Global education institutions are to participate in a Summit. Their inputs will play a vital role in making India self-reliant.

76 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 LIFE HARBOURING GAS ON VENUS Recently, a team of experts while observing the Venus found that the atmosphere of Venus contains traces of PHOSPHINE GAS. Phosphine gas is associated with the living organisms which on Earth. The team used telescopes in Hawaii and Chile’s Atacama Desert in order to observe upper cloud deck of Venus which is around 60 km from the surface. Conditions on Venus • Temperature conditions on Venus is described as hellish. • The daytime temperatures can even melt lead. • The atmosphere is composed entirely of carbon dioxide (almost 96%) • Clouds of sulfuric acid droplets are present. Though the team detected traces of phosphine. But they have also stated that the presence of phosphine alone does not prove the presence of life on Venus. Venus • Venus is named after the ancient Roman goddess of love and beauty known as Aphrodite to the Ancient Greeks. • It rotates from east to west. • Venus has no rings. • It has no moons or satellites of its own. • It is called morning or an evening star. • It takes 5,832 hours to complete a rotation. • Venus orbit around the Sun every 224.7 Earth days. • It is a terrestrial planet. • Referred as Earth’s “sister planet” because of their similar size, mass, proximity to the Sun • Atmosphere of Venus is extremely enriched of primordial noble gases. • Venus covers Earth every 584 days as it orbits around the Sun. Phosphine • s its chemical formula. Phosphine is a colorless, flammable and a toxic gas. Phosphine is the compound. PH₃ i • Also, it is odorless in its pure form. However, technically, it is having a highly unpleasant odor like garlic or rotting fish.

77 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The compound is also a constituent of the Earth’s atmosphere in a low amount.

AUGUST 2020 CHUNAUTI- NEXT GENERATION START-UP CHALLENGE CONTEST: Launched by: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Aims and Objectives: 1. To further boost startups and software products with special focus on Tier-II towns of India. 2. Identify around 300 startups working in identified areas and provide them seed fund of upto Rs. 25 Lakh and other facilities. 3. Under this challenge the Ministry of Electronics and IT will invite startups in the following areas of work: • Edu-Tech, Agri-Tech & Fin-Tech Solutions for masses. • Supply Chain, Logistics & Transportation Management. • Infrastructure & Remote monitoring. • Medical Healthcare, Diagnostic, Preventive & Psychological Care. • Jobs & Skilling, Linguistic tools & technologies. Benefits for the selected startups: • They will get incubation facilities, mentorship, security testing facilities, access to venture capitalist funding, industry connect as well as advisories in legal, Human Resource (HR), IPR and Patent matters. • Besides seed fund of upto Rs. 25 Lakh, the startups will also be provided cloud credits from leading cloud service providers. • Each intern (start-up under pre-incubation) will be paid Rs. 10,000/- per month upto a period of 6 months.

78 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 BEIDOU Context: China has recently completed its BeiDou Navigation Satellite System constellation. What is the BeiDou navigation system? • It is Chinese Satellite Navigation System. The system uses a network of satellites and can provide positional accuracies of under ten metres (GPS provides positioning accuracies of under 2.2 metres). • China initiated BeiDou in 1994 with aims to integrate its application in different sectors, including fishery, agriculture, special care, mass-market applications, forestry and public security. • BeiDou offers services including accurate positioning, navigation and timing as well as short message communication. How many satellites are there in the system? It consists of 27 satellites in medium Earth orbit, five in geostationary orbit and three more in inclined geosynchronous orbits. Which other countries are working on building their navigation systems? 1. The GPS is owned by the US government and operated by the US Air Force. 2. Russia has its navigation system called GLONASS. 3. The European Union (EU) has Galileo. 4. India’s navigation system is called Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). 5. Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, also known as Michibiki.

SPACEX’S SN5 STARSHIP It is a prototype of SpaceX’s uncrewed “Mars ship”. It is a stainless steel test. It is a part of the Starship spacecraft. Why in News? The prototype recently completed its first test flight. It successfully flew to an altitude of over 500 feet for a little less than 60 seconds. What is Starship? Designed by SpaceX, Starship is a spacecraft and super-heavy booster rocket meant to act as a reusable transportation system for crew and cargo to the Earth’s orbit, Moon

79 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 and Mars. SpaceX has described Starship as “the world’s most powerful launch vehicle” with an ability to carry over 100 metric tonnes to the Earth’s orbit. Potential: 1. Once functional, the Starship spacecraft will enter Mars’ atmosphere at a speed of 7.5 km per second and will be designed to withstand multiple entries. 2. Starship can deliver satellites further and at lower marginal costs than SpaceX’s Falcon vehicles and it can ferry both cargo and crew to the International Space Station (ISS). 3. Once developed, Starship is also expected to help carry large amounts of cargo to the Moon, for human spaceflight development and research.

VIKRAM SARABHAI: Context: ISRO pays tribute to Dr Vikram Sarabhai by announcing that Chandrayaan 2 Orbiter has captured the Moon images of “Sarabhai” Crater. About Vikram Sarabhai and his contributions: Vikram Sarabhai was born on August 12, 1919. Sarabhai was instrumental in forming India’s future in astronomy and setting up the country’s space research facilities. Key contributions: 1. Based on his persuasion, the Indian government agreed to set up the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) in 1962. He was the first chairman of the committee. 2. The INCOSPAR was restructured and renamed as Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969. 3. Sarabhai founded the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad in the year 1947. The laboratory started its operation from RETREAT, Sarabhai’s residence in Ahmedabad. Its first topic of research was cosmic rays. 4. He also set up India’s first rocket launch site in Thumba, a small village near the Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala. 5. Vikram Sarabhai was also responsible for bringing cable television to India. His constant contact with NASA paved a way for the establishment of Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) in 1975. 6. Sarabhai was the mastermind behind building India’s first satellite, Aryabhata.

80 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 7. He was one of the founding members of the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA). 8. Vikram Sarabhai received the Padma Bhushan in 1966 for his contribution to India’s progress. He was also awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1972, posthumously.

N1-STOP-LAMP’- Diagnoses Test In order to combat the menace of COVID 19 pandemic in the country, the researchers have developed a tool that can test the results of samples collected in as early as 20 minutes. This has been published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology. Details of the Test The rapid molecular test, named as N1-STOP-LAMP, is 100 per cent accurate in diagnosing samples containing the SARS-CoV-2 at high loads. This is referred to as a ‘near care’ test but it is not ready to replace the currently prevalent PCR testing being done to detect the deadly virus. What is PCR Testing? This test was developed by Kary Mullis, an American biochemist. In this test, copies of a segment of DNA are created using an enzyme called Polymerase. A fluorescent DNA binding dye called the ‘probe’ is added to DNA, which shows the presence of the virus on fluorometer. But coronavirus is made up of RNA that is why the RNA is converted into DNA in a process called the Reverse Transcription. Then, the copies of the DNA are made and amplified. What is SARS –CoV 2? This is a part of the group of viruses and the latest strain is known as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 by the International Taxonomy of Viruses. Generally, such viruses are responsible for respiratory infections including the common cold.

MAGNETIC HYPERTHERMIA-MEDIATED CANCER THERAPY (MHCT) Context: Efforts are being made to make magnetic hyperthermia-mediated cancer therapy as desire therapy for inoperable tumours.

81 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Magnetic hyperthermia-mediated cancer therapy (MHCT) • It is a non-invasive cancer treatment. • The technique: Delivery and localisation of magnetic materials within the targeted tumour site followed by subsequent application of an alternating magnetic field (AMF), thereby generating heat at the tumour site. • It can efficiently act against deep-seated inaccessible solid tumours like glioblastoma (aggressive type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord) • It is highly thermo-sensitive towards normal cells with minimal toxicity against healthy counterparts. • Scientists are on the lookout for new materials which can make this treatment more efficient.

DNA BILL CAN BE MISUSED: DRAFT REPORT A draft report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology has flagged the DNA bill. Headed by: Jairam Ramesh The report is yet to be finalized. According to the Committee: • The bill could be misused for caste or community-based profiling. • DNA profiles can reveal extremely sensitive information of an individual such as pedigree, skin colour, health status and susceptibility to diseases. • Disregard to an individual’s privacy and other safeguards is another concern. • Consenting provision can be easily overridden by a magistrate, thereby, making consent perfunctory (no real effort). • No guidance in the Bill as to when the magistrate can override consent. DNA Bill • It proposes DNA sampling and profiling of Indian citizens accused of crime or reported missing. • It shall store their unique genetic information for administrative purposes. • Nearly 60 countries have enacted similar legislation, with the U.S. bringing in a law in 1994.

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THE UNCHARTED TERRITORY OF OUTER SPACE Context: Today, outer space no longer captures our mind space in the way cyberspace does. Several space events planned well in advance proceeded even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, some of which are: • The launch of missions to Mars by China and the U.S. and UAE’s Mars orbiter mission • The first astronaut trip to orbit on a commercial enterprise built by Space X • The completion of the Chinese ‘BeiDou’ satellite navigation system • The U.S. Space Command • Russia conducted a “non-destructive test of a space-based anti-satellite weapon” • The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 enshrines the idea that space should be “the province of all mankind” and “not subject to national appropriation by claims of sovereignty”. • The Rescue Agreement, Space Liability Convention, and the Space Registration Convention expanded provisions of the Outer Space Treaty. • Gaps in the Space laws include - The Moon Treaty of 1979 was not ratified by major space-faring nations. • Space law does not have a dispute settlement mechanism. • Space law is silent on collisions and debris. • They offer insufficient guidance on interference with others’ space assets.

Connecting the dots :

• IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre) • India’s future space plans - Landing on the Moon; solar observatory; crewed orbital spaceflight mission; and installation of a modular space station in 2030.

SYNTHETIC FLAVONOIDS

83 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 In News: Recently, scientists from Agharkar Research Institute (ARI), Pune have found the first synthetic route for producing flavonoids molecules related to the treatment of tuberculosis and chikungunya. Key takeaways • It is for the first time that the flavonoid molecules such as rugosa flavonoids, podocare flavone and isoflavonehave been synthesised in a lab. • These three molecules have so far been isolated from plants only.

Important value additions Flavonoids. • These are part of the polyphenol class of phytonutrients (plant chemicals) found in almost all fruits and vegetables. • They are responsible for organic pigments and the vivid colours in fruits and vegetables. • These are powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits. • A diet rich in flavonoids can protect from diseases related to heart, liver, kidney, brain and other infectious diseases.

ABSCISIC ACID (ABA) Why ABA in news? • IISER Bhopalscientists are studying the criticalrole of ABA in seed germination, which can lead to crop improvement. • Their study proved that the inhibition of seedling growth by ABA is much stronger in darkness as compared to light conditions What is Abscisic Acid? • Humans have glands that secrete hormones at different times to stimulate body processes such as growth, development, and the breaking down of sugars. • Plants also have hormones that stimulate processes that are necessary for them to live. • Abscisic acid is a plant hormone involved in many developmental plant processes, such as dormancy and environmental stress response.

84 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Abscisic acid is produced in the roots of the plant as well as the terminal buds at the top of the plant. Function of Abscisic Acid • Abscisic acid is involved in several plant functions. • Plants have openings on the bottom side of their leaves, known as stomata. Stomata take in carbon dioxide and regulate water content. • Abscisic acid has been found to function in the closing of these stomata during times when the plant does not require as much carbon dioxide or during times of drought when the plant cannot afford to lose much water through transpiration. • One of the crucial functions of abscisic acid is to inhibit seed germination. • Abscisic acid has been found to stop a seed from immediately germinating once it has been placed in the soil. It actually causes the seed to enter a period of dormancy. • This is of great benefit to the plants because most seeds are formed at the end of the growing season, when conditions would not be favorable for a new plant to sprout. • It is especially important for plants in the response to environmental stresses, including drought, soils alinity, cold tolerance, freezing tolerance, heat stress and heavy metal ion tolerance.

SHUTTING THE DOOR ON HUAWEI Context: U.K’s decision to ban the Chinese company Huawei that entails banning its mobile providers from buying new Huawei 5G equipment after 2020 as well as removing all of Huawei’s 5G kit from their networks by 2027 What is 5G? • 5G is the fifth generation cellular technology that apart from increasing the downloading and uploading speeds (speed of 1 Gbps) over the mobile network, also reduces the latency i.e. the time taken by a network to respond. • It also increases energy efficiency and offers more stable network connections. • 5G is also designed to deliver signals more reliably than earlier cellular networks • 5G will have a wider area in the frequency spectrum (range of frequencies) that will ensure no network congestion.

85 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • In addition, it will also ensure connectivity to a full circle i.e. everything is connected to every other thing. • 5G will help facilitate the ecosystem for the Internet of Things (IoT) and to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our daily lives. • To get the benefits of 5G, users will have to buy new phones, while carriers will need to install new transmission equipment to offer the faster service. What made UK to ban Huawei? • It was primarily due to pressure mounted by USA. • US views technological progress made by Chinese company as threat to its own dominance in the field of technology & trade. • On the grounds of cyber security and data privacy, US had banned Huawei company from its economy in 2019. • US also imposed sanctions on Huawei that created uncertainties around Huawei’s supply chain impacting its global business. • The U.S.-China relationship is entering a phase of Cold War 2.0, the Trump administration had made it clear that the U.K.’s “special relationship” with the U.S. will be jeopardised if UK doesn’t ban Huawei. What has been the response of China? China strongly opposed the U.K.’s ban and warned that it would take measures to safeguard the legitimate interests of Chinese companies Consequence of UK’s decision SWADESHI MICROPROCESSOR In News: Recently, “Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge- Innovate Solutions for #Aatmanirbhar Bharat” was launched. Launched by: Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Aim: • To provide further impetus to the strong ecosystem of Start-up, innovation and research in the country. • To realize the ambition of self-reliance. • Indigenously developed microprocessors SHAKTI and VEGA have also been rolled out under the Microprocessor Development Programme.

Microprocessor Development Programme

86 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Aim: • Meeting India’s future requirements of strategic and industrial sectors • To mitigate the issues of security, licensing, technology obsolescence and cutting dependency on imports. • It is a successful step to achieve the goal of vibrant ecosystem of Electronic System Design & Manufacturing in India.

JUNE 2020 FIFTH STATE OF MATTER –BOSE EINSTEIN CONDENSATE Why in News? • NASA scientists on Earth have collaborated with astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) to corral the first ever Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC)- the fifth state of matter- outside of Earth’s gravity. • The matter has been created in one of the coldest places in the universe- the Cold Atom Laboratory– a device on board the International Space Station (ISS). What is a matter, an atom and molecule? • Matter is the "stuff" that makes up the universe — everything that takes up space and has mass is matter. All matter is made up of atoms, which are in turn made up of protons, neutrons and electrons. • Atoms come together to form molecules, which are the building blocks for all types of matter. Both atoms and molecules are held together by a form of potential energy called chemical energy. • Five states of matter: There are four natural states of matter: Solids, liquids, gases and plasma. The fifth state is the man-made Bose-Einstein condensates. About Bose-Einstein condensate:

87 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 A Bose-Einstein condensate is so named because its existence was posited almost a century ago by Albert Einstein and Indian mathematician Satyendra Nath Bose. This exotic material only exists when atoms of certain elements are cooled to temperatures near absolute zero. At that point, clusters of atoms begin functioning as a single quantum object with both wave and particle properties. When was it first created? • BEC was created by scientists in 1995. Using a combination of lasers and magnets, scientists cooled a sample of rubidium to within a few degrees of absolute zero. • At this extremely low temperature, molecular motion comes very close to stopping. Since there is almost no kinetic energy being transferred from one atom to another, the atoms begin to clump together. There are no longer thousands of separate atoms, just one "super atom." Why study BEC? A BEC is used to study quantum mechanics on a macroscopic level. Light appears to slow down as it passes through a BEC, allowing scientists to study the particle/wave paradox. A BEC also has many of the properties of a superfluid, or a fluid that flows without friction. BECs are also used to simulate conditions that might exist in black holes. Why is it easy to create BEC in space? • BECs have been produced in a variety of experiments on Earth since 1995, but these are hindered by gravity, which collapses the clouds in a split second. • To make a BEC, scientists must first corral and then supercool atoms. • In the near-zero gravity in space, they can mix the ingredients in a much smaller catchment “trap.” On Earth’s surface, the atoms begin to repel each other and fly apart almost instantaneously. • On Earth, laboratories can only maintain Bose-Einstein condensates for a matter of milliseconds. However, research aboard the ISS has created a Bose-Einstein condensate that persisted for more than a second.

INDIAN NATIONAL SPACE PROMOTION AND AUTHORIZATION CENTRE Overview:

88 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Created to provide private players to use Indian space infrastructure. • Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will remain the basic body that decides what missions are to be undertaken but this new body will help fill the gaps. • With this, Private companies will be provided level playing field in satellites, launches and space-based services. • Future projects for planetary exploration, outer space travel will be open for the private sector. Significance and expected outcomes: • India is among a handful of countries with advanced capabilities in the space sector. • With these reforms, the sector will receive new energy and dynamism, to help the country leapfrog to the next stages of space activities. • This will not only result in an accelerated growth of this sector but will enable Indian Industry to be an important player in global space economy. • With this, there is an opportunity for large-scale employment in the technology sector and India becoming a Global technology powerhouse. • Allow ISRO to focus more on research and development activities, new technologies, exploration missions and human spaceflight programme.

STATISTICS DAY Celebrated on 29th June every year. Observed in recognition of the notable contributions made by Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the fields of statistics, statistical system and economic planning. Theme: This year’s Theme is "SDG- 3 (Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages) & SDG- 5 (Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls)". Contribution of PC Mahalanonobis to Statistics (1893 –1972): 1. He is referred to as the chief architect of Indian statistical system as well as father of statistical science in India. 2. He established the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931 in Kolkata.

89 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 3. The institute founded the journal Sankhya, along the lines of Karl Pearson’s Biometrika. 4. In 1959 it was made an autonomous body of Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation. 5. He also helped in the establishment of Central Statistical Organisation (CSO), the National Sample Survey (NSS) and the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI). He introduced three key concepts to the theory and practice of sample surveys which are: Pilot surveys, Optimum survey design and Inter Penetrating Network of sub-samples technique (IPNS). He also served as the Chairman of the United Nations Sub-Commission on Statistical Sampling. 6. In 1936 he introduced a statistical measure named the Mahalanobis distance. It is widely used in cluster analysis and classification techniques. The Mahalanobis model, was employed in the Second Five Year Plan, which worked towards the rapid industrialisation of India.

SUPER EARTH DISCOVERED The Astronomers at the University of Gottingen detected a system of super earth planets. The planets are orbiting a near by star Gliese 887. It is the brightest red dwarf star in the sky. About the discovery • The Super earth discovered is close to the habitable zone of the red dwarf. Based on its proximity there are possibilities for existence of water. The Super Earths were discovered based on a technique called “Doppler Wobble”. • The technique allows the scientists to measure tiny back and forth wobbles of the star that are caused due to gravitational pull of the planets. • The Astronomers have found that Gliese 887 is active just as the sun. This would have created a strong stellar wind and an outflowing material that would have eroded the atmosphere of the planet. • The astronomers have also discovered that the brightness of the Gliese star is almost constant. Hence, the star is relatively easy to detect. GLIESE 887

90 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The Gliese 887 is at 11 light years from the sun and is one of the closest stars to the sun. It is half the size of the sun. It has very few star spots unlike the sun. What are Super Earths? The Super Earths are planets that have mass higher than that of the Earth and lower than that of Uranus and Neptune.

LA NINA TO BOOST SOUTH WEST MONSOON IN 2020 The Australian Bureau of Meteorology recently stated that there is 50% of chances for the formation of La Nina in 2020. Highlights According to the researchers at the bureau, the La Nina if formed will boost the South West Monsoon. The Indian Meteorological Department expects an above average monsoon in India in 2020. The IMD has predicted 104% of monsoon rains that currently stands at 88 cm for India. So far, India has been receiving healthy monsoon rains with 22% above average rainfalls all over the country. Between June 1 and June 24, 2020, Central India has seen 59% above normal rain in the country. La Nina La Nina is caused due to the cooling of Pacific Ocean. It is considered as the counterpart of El Nino. Together La Nina and El Nino contribute to the El-Nino Southern Oscillation, called the ENSO. Scientists use Oceanic Nino Index to measure the deviation from the normal sea surface

FUGAKU: WORLD FASTEST SUPERCOMPUTER-JAPAN A Japan based Supercomputer, Fugaku developed by Fujitsu and the Riken Research Institute has been named the fastest supercomputer in the world. Highlights The fugaku has gained the top spot after beating out its Chinese and US counterparts. Also, it is the first Japanese super computer to gain the top position after 9 years. This is the first time a supercomputer based on ARM processors has topped the list. Supercomputers

91 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The Supercomputers are used to perform complicated tasks such as space explorations, weather forecasting, quantum mechanics and so on. They are implemented in the fields where specialized calculations are required. ARM processor ARM Processors are a family of CPUs that are based on RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture. They are designed to perform smaller computer instructions so that they can operate at higher speed. They are capable of executing millions of instructions per second. The ARM processors are generally used in smart phones, wearables and multi media players. La Nina is identified with the decrease in surface sea temperatures of more than 0.5 degrees Celsius for consecutive 3-month seasons.

UNION CABINET APPROVES PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION IN SPACE ACTIVITIES • The move to leapfrog India’s space activities into the next stage by transforming the Indian Space Sector for the future challenges was made during a meeting of the Union Cabinet on 24th June 2020. • Under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, to further advance India’s capabilities in the space sector, the Cabinet approved the participation of the private sector in various space activities. • This long-awaited move from the Indian Government is highly significant in order to establish India’s position as one of the important players in the global space economy. • The decision will bring new energy and dimension to the entire space sector, which in the long run will also help in building an AtmaNirbhar Bharat by making the space sector self-reliant and technologically advanced. Role of IN-SPACe and NSIL • The Cabinet has approved setting up of Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe). Through friendly regulatory and encouraging policies, IN-SPACe will have the responsibility to guide the private sector in various space activities.

92 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • State-owned enterprise New Space India Limited (NSIL) was founded in March 2019. The NSIL will have the responsibility to change the economic and social policies for encouraging the private sector in space activities by making Indian Space Sector demand-driven from the current supply-driven model.

CABINET APPROVES A NEW IN-SPACE CENTRE: On June 24, 2020, the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved space sector reforms that will boost the private participation. IN-SPACe Centre Indian Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre has been newly created. The centre will provide level playing field for the private companies to use Indian Space infrastructure. Also, the Centre will guide the private industries through encouraging policies and friendly regulatory environment. New Space India Limited The New Space India Limited (NSIL) will re-orient space activities. Currently the space activities are in “supply driven” mode. They are to be re-oriented into demand driven mode. This will help to ensure optimum utilization of space assets. Significance The step will help India boost its space achievements. India has sent 104 satellites in one go. Also, India has completed 6 years of its mars mission and the on-going Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan-3 are some of the best examples of India’s growth in the space sector. Background The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had earlier announced that India will allow private players to share the assets of ISRO. This was announced when the minister announced the economic package for Atma Nirbhat Bharat Abhiyan.

‘GERMIKLEAN’: DEVELOPED BY DRDO TO SANITISE UNIFORMS OF POLICE AND SECURITY PERSONNEL

93 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The Defence Research and Development Organization has developed ‘GermiKlean’. GermiKlean is a sanitising chamber that can be used to sanitise uniforms of security and police personnel. Highlights The DRDO developed the sanitizing chamber after the Delhi Police raised their requirement of sanitizing their helmets, uniforms, cane shields, etc. About GermiKlean GermiKlean is capable of sanitizing 25 pairs of uniforms within 15 minutes using dry heat treatment. Dry heating of an article is accomplished by conduction. Heat is absorbed by the exterior surface of the article and passed inward. Dry heat kills micro organisms by causing denaturation of proteins. Denaturation is a process in which the nucleic acids lose the quaternary structure. This kills the micro organisms. Other measures The DRDO has also designed sanitisation tunnel. It has come up with an idea of a mat that can be used to sanitise foot.

CENS: LOW COST CATALYST FOR HYDROGEN GENERATION The scientists and researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences operating under Department of Science and Technology have invented a low cost effective way to generate hydrogen from water using Molybdenum dioxide. Key Findings of the Study The study says that Molybdenum dioxide can act as efficient catalyst to reduce energy used in splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. The process is called electrolysis. About Molybdenum Dioxide Molybdenum Dioxide has the potential to replace the catalyst that is being used currently, that is, Platinum. Platinum is highly expensive and also is available as limited resource on the earth. About the Study The researchers grew Molybdenum Dioxide on tin oxide substrates. Significance

94 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The splitting of water is important to obtain hydrogen. Hydrogen is lately becoming a popular clean fuel. Hydrogen is predominantly used to make fuel cells. In a fuel cell, the chemical energy, that is hydrogen is converted into electricity. Hydrogen Energy in India The Ministry of Renewable Energy is supporting Research and Development on Hydrogen Energy and Fuel greatly. The projects of hydrogen transportation is being conducted by Mahindra and Mahindra, Banaras Hindu University and IIT Delhi currently.

BODOLAND UNIVERSITY DEVELOPS FUNGAL POWDER TO BOOST IMMUNITY In news: • Bodoland University has said that it has developed a fungal powder to help people boost their immunity to disease. • The powder is from a parasitic but rare “super mushroom” called Cordyceps militaris. • A potent pinch of C. militaris was powdered through lyophilisation or freeze- drying at – • 80°C. Cordyceps • The earth has more than 400 species of Cordyceps. • It is often referred to as a super mushroom. It is a fungus parasitic on insects as well as other fungi. • It is known for its anti-ageing, anti-viral, energy and immunity-boosting effect. • Cordyceps militaris is spread throughout the northern hemisphere.

95 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021

FUSARIUM WILT TR4: BANANA

Fusarium wilt TR4, a novel fungus strain, has devastated banana plantations across the

Its new hotspots have been found in India too which is threatening output. globe. Key takeaways • • It cripples plantations by first attacking the leaves, which turn yellow from their The strain, Tropical Race 4 (TR4), was first identified in Taiwan.

• trailing edges before wilting away. There is no effective remedy yet.

96 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), TR4 is one of the most destructive of a • It has infected the most commonly sold variety: Grand Nain (musa acuminata), a ll plant diseases. curvy yellow fruit. • Scientists recommend biosecurity measures such as plant quarantine, bio priming to slow its spread. In India, hotspots have been found in Bihar and Uttar

• Pradesh. • It has alrea Inability to contain TR4 could jolt farm incomes and push up banana prices. • The Indian Council of Agricultural Research has asked farmers to abandon farms dy jeopardised the $26 billion global banana trade.

• They must grow rice for a year or two before returning to growing bananas. That whose plantations have been affected . way the chain gets broken. Fusarium wilt • It is a common vascular wilt fungal disease. • It is caused by Fusarium oxysporum. • Hosts: Tomato, tobacco, legumes, cucurbits, sweet potatoes and banana • • It entirely wiped out Gros Michel, the dominant export variety of bananas in It is not new.

• It was in response to this that a new resistant variety, Grand Nain, came up. 1950s.

Bio-priming • It is a new technique of seed treatment that integrates biological (inoculation of seed with beneficial organism to protect seed) and physiological aspects (seed

• It is used as an alternative method for controlling many seed-borne and soil- hydration) of disease control.

Bananas borne pathogens. • • India is the world’s largest producer of bananas. It is the world’s most globally exported fruit, according to the FAO.

97 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It is a tropical crop.

LUNAR POLAR EXPLORATION (LPE) MISSION SPACE In news: • Japan and India will be launching a joint lunar mission called the Lunar Polar Exploration (LPE)

Key takeaways

• • The mission will be launched after 2023. The mission aims to put a lander and rover on Moon’s surface. • Japanese space agency JAXA would be building the overall landing module and the rover, while ISRO would develop the lander system. • It will be launched from Japan, and the designated launch vehicle is the H3

• The mission intends to obtain data on the quantity and forms of water resources rocket. present, in order to determine the feasibility of utilizing such resources for sustainable space exploration activities in the future.

INDIA JOINS GPAI In news: • India joined the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI or Gee- Pay) as a founding member to support the responsible and human-centric development and use of Artificial intelligence (AI). • • It is an international and multi-stakeholder initiative to guide the responsible Important value additions Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence development and use of AI taking into account human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation, and economic growth. • This is also a first initiative of its type which involves better understanding of the challenges and opportunities around AI using the experience and diversity of participating countries. •

It will be supported by a Secretariat.

98 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It will be hosted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris, as well as by two Centers of Expertise- one each in Montreal and Paris.

• USA Other countries who are part of this initiative other than India are: • UK • EU • Australia • Canada • France • Germany • Italy • Japan • Mexico • New Zealand • Republic of Korea • Singapore

PLASMA BANK Why in news? In a first in India, Delhi government has launched a plasma bank for treating covid19 patients. About Plasma Bank • The facility is to be set up at the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), and will be made available to government and private hospitals. • Plasma Bank functions like a blood bank, and has been created specifically for those who are suffering from COVID-19, and have been advised for plasma therapy by doctors. • Idea is to extract and store plasma from people who have recovered from COVID- 19 and give it to someone suffering from the disease.

99 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Delhi has been using Convalescent Plasma Therapy, an experimental treatment that doctors are using for people with severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19). • The bank was needed because patients were facing problems accessing blood plasma. It will, however, not be mandatory for patients to contact the bank for plasma therapy. • Each plasma donation would be used to treat 2 patients. The bank collects 500 ml of plasma, depending on weight.

About Plasma Plasma is the liquid portion of blood “yellowish” in color.

About 55% of blood is plasma, and the remaining 45% are red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC) and platelets that are suspended in the plasma. Plasma serves four important functions in body o Helps maintain blood pressure and volume. o Supply critical proteins for blood clotting and immunity. o Carries electrolytes such as sodium and potassium to our muscles. o Helps to maintain a proper pH balance in the body, which supports

QUANTUM KEY DISTRIBUTION Why in News? • Recently, a satellite-based communication between two ground stations was activated by entangled-based quantum key distribution (QKD). • The communication between two stations more than 1,120 kilometers apart was activated by QKD. • This was achieved by Micius(also known as the Quantum Experiments at Space Scale), World's first quantumenabled satellite. Micius was launched by China in 2016. About Quantum Key Distribution • QKD is a technique that allows for secure distribution of keys to be used for encrypting and decrypting messages. • In traditional cryptography, the security is usually based on the fact that an adversary is unable to solve a certain mathematical problem. • In QKD, security is achieved through the laws of quantum physics. • Two such most important laws are Superposition and Entanglement.

100 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Superposition means that each quantum bit (basic unit of information in a quantum computer) can represent both a 1 and a 0 at the same time. • In quantum entanglement, subatomic particles become “entangled” (linked) in such a way that any change in one disturbs the other even if both are at opposite ends of the universe. • Quantum Satellite serves as source of pairs of entangled photons, twinned light particles whose properties remain intertwined no matter how far apart they are.

About Quantum Technology • Quantum technology seeks to harness laws of quantum physics, which describe the behaviour of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level. • This is unlike classical physics, in which an object can exist in one place at one time. E.g. classical computers operate using binary physical state, meaning its operations are based on one of two positions (1 or 0).

101 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Quantum principles will be used for engineering solutions to extremely complex problems in computing, communications, sensing, chemistry, cryptography, imaging and mechanics. Some applications of Quantum Technology are: • Quantum Computing with potential applications in precise navigation for defence and civilian applications, accelerated drug development by accurate chemical simulations etc. • Quantum metrology to provide more capable means of detecting stealth aircraft, submarines and also mineral exploration and water resource management etc. MAY 2020 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT (R&D) STATISTICS AND INDICATORS 2019-20 REPORT Context: R&D Statistics and Indicators 2019-20 is based on the national S&T survey 2018 brought out by the National Science and Technology Management Information (NSTMIS), Department of Science and Technology (DST). Background: The report captures the R&D landscape of the country through various Input-Output S&T Indicators in the form of Tables and graphs. These pertain to Investments in national R&D, R&D investments by Government and Private sector; R&D relationship with economy (GDP), Enrolment of S&T personnel, Manpower engaged in R&D, Outrun of S&T personnel, papers published, patents and their international S&T comparisons. Key findings: 1. India’s gross expenditure in R&D has tripled between 2008 & 2018 driven mainly by Govt sector and scientific publications have risen placing the country internationally among the top few. 2. With the rise in publication, the country is globally at the 3rd position on this score as per the NSF database, 3rd in the number of Ph.D. in science & engineering. 3. The number of researchers per million population has doubled since 2000. It has increased to 255 in 2017 from 218 in 2015 and 110 in 2000.

102 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 4. Women participation in extramural R&D projects has increased significantly to 24% in 2016-17 from 13% in 2000-01 due to various initiatives undertaken by the Government in S&T sector. 5. India’s per capita R&D expenditure has increased to PPP $ 47.2 in 2017-18 from PPP $ 29.2 in 2007-08. 6. India spent 0.7% of its GDP on R&D in 2017-18, while the same among other developing BRICS countries was Brazil 1.3%, Russian Federation 1.1%, China 2.1% and South Africa 0.8%. 7. India is ranked at 9th position in terms of Resident Patent Filing activity in the world. 8. According to WIPO, India’s Patent Office stands at the 7th position among the top 10 Patent Filing Offices in the world.

NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY DAY – MAY 11 Since 1999, May 11 is celebrated as National Technology Day to mark India’s technological advancements. This year, on behalf of the Ministry of Science & Technology, Technology Development Board (TBD) has organised a conference to celebrate the day. The theme of the conference is ‘Rebooting the Economy through Science, Technology and Research Translations titled RESTART’ Significance of the day: • On May 11, 1998, India detonated three nuclear bombs in the Indian Army’s Pokhran Test Range. • Dr APJ Abdul Kalam lead the Indian team of scientists to successfully test-fire the Shakti-1 nuclear missile at Rajasthan’s Pokhran test range. • Two days later, the country successfully tested two more nuclear weapons as a part of the same PokhranII/Operation Shakti initiative. • After these tests Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared India a nuclear state, making it the sixth country to join the 'nuclear club' of nations. Hansa 3, India’s first indigenous aircraft was first tested on the same day in 1998 in Bangalore. • Successful test firing of Trishul, a short range missile made in India, was also done on the same day. Note:

103 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • India is currently among eight countries in the world that have a publicly known nuclear weapons programme. • In 1974, India conducted its first nuclear test, codenamed “Smiling Buddha”, at Pokhran in Rajasthan.

ULTRAVIOLET GERMICIDAL RADIATION (UVGI) Context: Scientists are studying the use of ultraviolet germicidal radiation (UVGI) to detect Coronavirus in schools, restaurants and other public places. Through this method, ultraviolet (UV) lights would be able to disinfect contaminated public spaces to stop the transmission of the virus. What is UV light? UV light from the sun has shorter wavelengths than visible light and, therefore, is not visible to the naked eye. The full spectrum of UV radiation is sourced from the sun and can be subdivided into UV-A, UV-B and UV-C rays. In this spectrum, UV-C rays are the most harmful and are completely absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere. How it affects human body? • While both UV-A and UV-B rays are harmful, exposure to UV-B rays can cause DNA and cellular damage in living organisms. • Increased exposure to it can cause cells to become carcinogenic, thereby increasing the risk of getting cancer. So, how does UVGI work? UVGI uses the “destructive properties” of UV light to target pathogens. • UVGI replicates UV wavelengths that disinfects contaminated spaces, air and water. • UVGI lamps can also be installed in the corners of a room and alternatively, can be installed in air ducts of ventilation systems or portable or fixed air cleaners.

QUANTUM ENTANGLEMENT Context: Researchers from Kolkata have developed a novel protocol to find out whether a pair of electrons is in an entangled state so that they can be safely used as

104 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 resources for facilitating quantum information processing tasks. The protocol has been developed through theoretical and experimental analysis. What is the protocol? The theoretical idea is based on applying the fine-grained uncertainty relation to perform quantum steering. The experiment uses an all-optical set-up in which entangled pairs of photons are created by laser light on Beta barium borate (BBO) crystals, a nonlinear optical crystal, used as laser crystal. What is Quantum entanglement? It is a quantum mechanical phenomenon in which the quantum states of two or more objects have to be described with reference to each other, even though the individual objects may be spatially separated. It is the physical phenomenon that occurs when a pair or group of particles is generated, interact, in a way such that the quantum state of each particle of the pair or group cannot be described independently of the state of the others. Significance: Quantum entanglement is one of the peculiarities of quantum mechanics, which makes phenomena such as quantum teleportation and super-dense coding possible.

'SOLAR MINIMUM' Context: The sun is said to have gone into a state called the 'solar minimum' and is about to enter the deepest period of 'sunshine recession' as sunspots are virtually not visibly at all. Some reports suggest that it has been almost 100 days this year when the sun has shown zero sunspots. What is solar minimum and why is it happening now? • Sun has a cycle that lasts on average 11 years, and right now we are at the peak of that cycle. Every 11 years or so, sunspots fade away, bringing a period of relative calm. This is called the solar minimum. And it’s a regular part of the sunspot cycle. • Implications: While intense activity such as sunspots and solar flares subside during solar minimum, that doesn’t mean the sun becomes dull. Solar activity simply changes form.

105 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • For instance, during solar minimum we can see the development of longlived coronal holes. But, this may cause health risks to astronauts travelling through space as "the sun’s magnetic field weakens and provides less shielding from these cosmic rays."

GI TAGS TO NEW PRODUCTS Context: GI tag has been given to Black rice of Manipur, also called the Chak-Hao, Gorakhpur Terracotta and Kadalai Mittai of Kovilpatti. Key facts: Black rice variety has a deep black colour and is higher by weight than that of other coloured rice varieties like brown rice, etc. This is mainly due to the anthocyanin agent. Kovilpatti Kadalai Mittai is a pea nut candy made in southern parts of Tamil Nadu. The candy is prepared from ground nut and jaggery. The water is exclusively used from the river Thamirabarani. Gorakhpur Terracotta: The potters of the town make animal figures like elephants, horses. About GI tag: A GI is primarily an agricultural, natural or a manufactured product (handicrafts and industrial goods) originating from a definite geographical territory. Significance of a GI tag: Typically, such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness, which is essentially attributable to the place of its origin. Security: Once the GI protection is granted, no other producer can misuse the name to market similar products. It also provides comfort to customers about the authenticity of that product. Who is a registered proprietor of a geographical indication? • Any association of persons, producers, organisation or authority established by or under the law can be a registered proprietor. • Their name should be entered in the Register of Geographical Indication as registered proprietor for the Geographical Indication applied for. How long the registration of Geographical Indication is valid? • The registration of a geographical indication is valid for a period of 10 years.

106 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It can be renewed from time to time for further period of 10 years each. What is the difference between a geographical indication and a trademark? • A trademark is a sign used by an enterprise to distinguish its goods and services from those of other enterprises. It gives its owner the right to exclude others from using the trademark. • A geographical indication tells consumers that a product is produced in a certain place and has certain characteristics that are due to that place of production. • It may be used by all producers who make their products in the place designated by a geographical indication and whose products share typical qualities. Who accords and regulates Geographical Indications? At the International level: Geographical Indications are covered as a component of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. GI is also governed by the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, Geographical Indications registration is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 which came into force with effect from September 2003. The first product in India to be accorded with GI tag was Darjeeling tea in the year 2004-05.

ANTARCTIC IMPULSIVE TRANSIENT ANTENNA OR ANITA Context: The news that a NASA experiment has indicated the possibility of a parallel universe has created headlines across the world. With this, ANtarctic Impulsive Transient Antenna or ANITA has suddenly come into the limelight as the cosmic-ray shower that is key to the new discovery was a part of NASA's ANITA and IceCube experiment taking place in Antarctica. What is ANITA? Designed by NASA, the ANITA instrument is a radio telescope which is used to to detect ultra-high energy cosmic-ray neutrinos from a scientific balloon flying over Antarctica. ANITA is the first NASA observatory for neutrinos of any kind. It involves an array of radio antennas attached to a helium balloon which flies over the Antarctic ice sheet at 37,000 meters. How many ANITAs?

107 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 1. ANITA-I was launched from McMurdo, Antarctica in 2006. 2. ANITA-II, a modified instrument with 40 antennas, was launched from McMurdo Station in 2008. 3. ANITA-III, which was equipped with systems to improve sensitivity by a factor of 5– 10, was launched in December 2014. 4. ANITA-IV was launched in December 2016 and it was loaded with tunable notch filters and an improved trigger system. Facts for Prelims: The neutrinos have energies on the order of 1018 eV and they are capable of producing radio pulses in the ice because of the Askaryan effect. What are neutrinos? Neutrinos are high-energy particles that pose no threat to us and pass through most solid objects without anyone even noticing. Neutrinos constantly bombard Earth and as per some estimates emerging from studies, 100 trillion neutrinos pass through your body every second. Do they interact with matter? Rarely do they interact with matter. But if they do smash into an atom, they produce a shower of secondary particles we can detect, which allows us to probe where they came from in the universe.

“INDIAN NATIONAL SUPER MODEL” LAUNCHED BY DST On May 31, 2020, the Department of Science and Technology operating under Ministry of Science and Technology launched the Indian National Super Model. The Model was launched to help monitor transmission of COVID-19 infection. Highlights The Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) and IISc (Indian Institute of Science) are to play crucial role in the programme. The programme will act as a common platform for the experts from different fields to come together and create a model. The model will perform rigorous tests and will practice forecast routine similar to that of the weather forecasting communities. About the Model

108 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The Model will integrate mathematical and statistical forecasts. This will help in predicting the possible impacts of the spread of the disease. A consultative committee is to work closely with the experts involved in the model. The committee will provide guidance, aggregation and final delivery of the super model.

ARKTIKA-M SATELLITE Russia is to launch first Arktika-M satellite by December 2020 from Baikonur space. The satellite is to be used to monitor Arctic climate and environment. Highlights Russia is to launch series of Arktika satellites. The second Arktika satellite is still under development and is to be launched by 2023. The data to be collected by these satellites will help in gathering meteorological data from the polar regions of the earth. The data collected by these satellites will help in improving weather forecasts and will enable scientists to study climate change. Significance The Satellites help in studying climate changes in the polar region and also help in detecting resources in the polar region. The Arctic region resources have been at the centre of controversy and pose potential threats of conflicts between nations. Without the ice, the oceans will begin to absorb more radiation. Why is Climate Change Study in Polar important? The polar ice is depleting at faster rate. The Depleting ice releases methane and contribute to climate change as a whole. The ice in the polar region reflects incoming solar radiation. This will cause heating up of water leading to ocean acidification. Also, ocean will begin to absorb more heat increasing global warming.

BLACKBUCK POACHING IN BIHAR The recent arrest of a policeman in Bihar for poaching a blackbuck is another addition to the rising number of illegal poaching amidst the countrywide lockdown condition. Blackbuck

109 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The blackbuck or the Indian antelope is an antelope species noted for its soft two- toned black coat and the long twisted horns. They are said to be nervous in nature- sometimes even dying of heart attack after sensing danger. Distribution Blackbucks are found in India, Nepal and Pakistan. Though it was historically found in Bangladesh, it is now extinct there. They are largely confined to protect areas, such as the Blackbuck Conservation Area in Nepal, in recent times. Poaching The animal is protected under schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Hence hunting the blackbuck will invite a prison term of up to 7 years. Yet, as many as 139 blackbucks have been illegally hunted in the last decade. Most of these poaching cases were recorded in Madhya Pradesh. They are mainly hunted for their meat and their horns as trophy.

ACUTE ENCEPHALITIS SYNDROME Context: At least 3 children have died in Bihar due to AES. In the last month, about 15 children were diagnosed with the disease. AES AES or acute encephalitis syndrome is a group of diseases affecting the nervous system. It includes a group of conditions such as the Japanese encephalitis. It is caused by a variety of pathogens such as bacteria, virus, fungi, spirochetes, parasites, etc. and even by toxins. Symptoms Symptoms of AES includes acute fever, neurological conditions like delirium, disorientation, mental confusion and even coma. The onset of the neurological symptoms is very rapid and hence the physicians have a small window to bring the disease under control. AES in Bihar AES cases begin to appear in Bihar in the May to June period when the temperature rises for the summer. The disease is locally known as ‘chamki bukhar’. In 2019, the disease claimed more than 150 children and had affected over 600 children.

110 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 BLOCKCHAIN BILL OF RIGHTS Why in news? • World Economic Forum, Global Blockchain Council launched Presidio Principles: the foundational values for a decentralized future which is also called as Blockchain Bill of Rights. About Blockchain Bill of Rights • It aims to establish a global baseline for developers, corporates and governments building blockchain applications. • It will help in creating “the foundational values for a decentralized future” which will help unlock the potential of a technology that is poised to massively transform multiple sectors. • It contains sixteen principles which aim to protect users and preserve the values of the technology so that all can benefit. • 16 principles have been set out in four categories. Need for the principles Risks to users: • Blockchain’s properties as a foundational technology make the considerations on data protection particularly important, given the harm and follow-on effects that can come from potential breaches. • Potential for transformational change can be undermined: Those with sophisticated knowledge may have the opportunity to exploit their advantages – whether to intentionally harm consumers or to suppress the market through anti-competitive actions. • Widening existing gaps: Despite talk of the potential for financial inclusion, if not designed carefully, blockchain can lead to the further exclusion and exploitation of vulnerable populations. • Social Impact: The WEF believes that greater blockchain adoption will lead to opportunities to have a social impact on the world at large in 2020. Hence, it is necessary to provide a safe platform with defined rights for the users. • Financial sector: Most of the banks and financial institutions are exploring blockchain technology such as Central Banks Digital Currency project, which brought together 45 central banks to explore parameters for the successful deployment of a CBDC. These rights will help in alleviating the effects of frauds.

111 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 APRIL 2020 REVERSE VACCINOLOGY Context: Researchers from Tamil Nadu have developed a vaccine candidate against SARS-CoV-2 through ‘reverse vaccinology’. Previously, Reverse vaccinology has been used for developing vaccinations for meningococcal and staphylococcal infections. What is reverse vaccinology? 1.Reverse vaccinology defines the process of antigen discovery starting from genome information. 2. This is done with the aid of computers without culturing microorganism. 3. The process includes comparative in silico analyses of multiple genome sequences in order to identify conserved antigens within a heterogeneous pathogen population and identification of antigens that are unique to pathogenic isolates but not present in commensal strains. 4. In addition, transcriptomic and proteomic data sets are integrated into a selection process that yields a short list of candidate antigens to be tested in animal models, thus reducing the costs and time of downstream analyses

Pros: Finding vaccine targets quickly and efficiently. Cons: Only proteins can be targeted using this process. Whereas, conventional vaccinology approaches can find other biomolecular targets such as polysaccharides.

SUNRISE MISSION-NASA

112 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: NASA has selected a new mission to study how the Sun generates and releases giant space weather storms – known as solar particle storms – into planetary space. Overview of the mission- the Sun Radio Interferometer Space Experiment (SunRISE): It is an array of six CubeSats operating as one very large radio telescope. NASA has awarded $62.6 million to design, build and launch SunRISE by no earlier than July 1, 2023. Objectives of the mission: 1. To study how the Sun creates and releases giant solar particle storms. 2. To help scientists understand the workings of the Solar System. How it works? • The mission design relies on six solar-powered CubeSats to simultaneously observe radio images of low frequency emission from solar activity and share them via NASA’s Deep Space Network. • The constellation of CubeSats would fly within 6 miles of each other, above Earth's atmosphere, which otherwise blocks the radio signals SunRISE will observe. • Together, the six CubeSats will create 3D maps to pinpoint where giant particle bursts originate on the Sun and how they evolve as they expand outward into space. • This, in turn, will help determine what initiates and accelerates these giant jets of radiation. • The six individual spacecraft will also work together to map, for the first time, the pattern of magnetic field lines reaching from the Sun out into interplanetary space.

GRACE-FO MISSION-NASA Context: New satellite-based, weekly global maps of soil moisture and groundwater wetness conditions were developed by NASA and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) on March 31, 2020. How were these maps produced? • GRACE-FO satellites was used to derive these global maps.

113 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • The satellite-based observations of changes in water distribution were integrated with other data within a computer model that simulated water and energy cycles. • The model then produced — among other outputs — time-varying maps of the distribution of water at three depths: Surface soil moisture, root zone soil moisture (roughly the top three feet of soil) and shallow groundwater. • The maps have a resolution of up to 8.5 miles, providing continuous data on moisture and groundwater conditions across the landscape. Why do we need these data? • The scientific community believes data available through this project would fill existing gaps in understanding the full picture of wet and dry conditions that can lead to drought. • These tools are absolutely critical to helping us address and offset some of the impacts anticipated, whether it is from population growth, climate change or just increased water consumption in general. • The data would also help in managing the selection of appropriate agricultural crops and predicting yields. About GRACE- FO mission: • GRACE-FO mission is a partnership between NASA and the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). • GRACE-FO is a successor to the original GRACE mission, which began orbiting Earth on March 17, 2002. The GRACE missions measure variations in gravity over Earth’s surface, producing a new map of the gravity field every 30 days. • GRACE-FO will continue the work of tracking Earth’s water movement to monitor changes in underground water storage, the amount of water in large lakes and rivers, soil moisture, ice sheets and glaciers, and sea level caused by the addition of water to the ocean. • These discoveries provide a unique view of Earth’s climate and have far-reaching benefits to society and the world’s population.

ARTEMIS BASE CAMP:- NASA Context: NASA unveils plan for Artemis 'base camp' on the moon beyond 2024. Artemis Base camp:

114 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 1. Artemis Base Camp is meant to be a long-term foothold for lunar exploration, perhaps in Shackleton Crater at the moon's south pole. 2. The Camp itself would be a lunar foundation surface habitat that could host four astronauts at the south pole for visits of perhaps a week. 3. In the long term, the facility would also require infrastructure for power, waste disposal and communications, as well as radiation shielding and a landing pad. 4. The base could also be a site for testing new techniques for dealing with pesky lunar dust and the long, cold lunar nights, turning local materials into resources like water, and developing new power and construction technologies. What is Artemis? Artemis– Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of Moon’s Interaction with the Sun. It is NASA’s next mission to the Moon. Objective: To measure what happens when the Sun’s radiation hits our rocky moon, where there is no magnetic field to protect it. Artemis was the twin sister of Apollo and goddess of the Moon in Greek mythology. Significance of the mission: With the Artemis program, NASA will land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024. Mission details: 1. NASA’s powerful new rocket, the Space Launch System (SLS), will send astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft nearly a quarter million miles from Earth to lunar orbit. 2. Astronauts will dock Orion at the Gateway and transfer to a human landing system for expeditions to the surface of the Moon. 3. They will return to the orbital outpost to board Orion again before returning safely to Earth. Scientific objectives: 1. Find and use water and other critical resources needed for long-term exploration. 2. Investigate the Moon’s mysteries and learn more about our home planet and the universe. 3. Learn how to live and operate on the surface of another celestial body where astronauts are just three days from home. 4. Prove the technologies we need before sending astronauts on missions to Mars, which can take up to three years roundtrip

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GLOBAL IONOSPHERIC MODEL Context: Researchers from Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG), Navi Mumbai, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India, have developed a global model to predict the ionospheric electron density with larger data coverage—a crucial need for communication and navigation. The model- Artificial Neural Networks based global Ionospheric Model (ANNIM)- has been developed using long-term ionospheric observations to predict the ionospheric electron density and the peak parameters How it works? Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) replicate the processes in the human brain (or biological neurons) to solve problems such as pattern recognition, classification, clustering, generalization, linear and nonlinear data fitting, and time series prediction. The target (output) of ANNs is the electron density as a function of altitude for any given location and time. Potential: 1. ANNIM has successfully reproduced large scale anomalies of the ionosphere.

116 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 2. It also captured the general morphological features of the ionosphere during disturbed space weather periods, such as geomagnetic storms which occurs when the magnetic cloud originated from Sun (known as Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)) interacts with the Earth’s magnetosphere. 3. The model may be utilized as a reference model in the ionospheric predictions and has potential applications in calculating the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) positioning errors. Significance of the model and the need for data on this: • The ionospheric variability is greatly influenced by both solar originated processes and the neutral atmosphere origin, and therefore, difficult to model. Scientists have tried to model the ionosphere using theoretical and empirical techniques. • However, the accurate prediction of electron density is still a challenging task. Tracking the variability of the Ionosphere is important for communication and navigation.

BIO FORTIFIED CROPS Context: Biofortified carrot variety developed by farmer scientist benefits local farmers. Details: 1. The bio fortified crop- Madhuban Gajar was developed by Shri Vallabhhai Vasrambhai Marvaniya, a farmer scientist from Junagadh district, Gujarat. 2. It contains high β-carotene and iron content. 3. It is being planted in an area of over 200 hectares in Junagadh, and the average yield, which is 40-50 t/ha, has become the main source of income to the local farmers. 4. The variety is being cultivated in more than 1000 hectares of land in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh during the last three years. 5. Madhuban Gajar carrot variety possesses a significantly higher root yield (74.2 t/ha) and plant biomass (275 gm per plant) as compared to check variety. What is biofortification?

117 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Biofortification is the process of increasing nutritional value of food crops by increasing the density of vitamins and minerals in a crop through either conventional plant breeding; agronomic practices or biotechnology. • Examples of these vitamins and minerals that can be increased through biofortification include provitamin A Carotenoids, zinc and iron. How are crops fortified? • Conventional crop breeding techniques are used to identify varieties with particularly high concentration of desired nutrients. • These are cross-bred with varieties with other desirable traits from the target areas (such a virus resistance, drought tolerance, high yielding, taste) to develop biofortified varieties that have high levels of micronutrients (for example, vitamin A, iron or zinc), in addition to other traits desired by farmers and consumers. • Agronomic biofortification entails application of minerals such as zinc or iron as foliar or soil applications, drawing on plant management, soil factors, and plant characteristics to get enhanced content of key micronutrients into the edible portion of the plant. Why biofortification? 1. Biofortification is one solution among many interventions that are needed to solve the complex problem of micronutrient malnutrition. It is considered one of the most cost-effective interventions for countries to employ in combating micronutrient malnutrition. 2. Biofortification reaches rural consumers who have limited access to industrially fortified foods, supplementation interventions, and diverse diets. 3. Biofortification combines increased micronutrient content with preferred agronomic, quality, and market traits and therefore biofortified varieties will typically match or outperform the usual varieties that farmers grow and consume. How does Biofortification differ from food fortification? • Biofortification has the increased nutritional micronutrient content imbedded in the crop being grown.

118 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Food fortification increases the nutritional value of foods by adding trace amounts of micronutrients to foods during processing.

BERBERINE AND ALZHEIMER’S Why in News? • Scientists from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre For Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) have modified the structure of Berberine into Ber-D to use as a Alzheimer’s inhibitor. • Ber-D is a soluble (aqueous), antioxidant. It is a multifunctional inhibitor of multifaceted amyloid toxicity of Alzheimer’s disease. • The structural attributes of Ber-D are such that they prevent the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and rescue biomacromolecules from oxidative damage. • These attributes make Ber-D a promising candidate for developing effective therapeutics to treat multifaceted toxicity of Alzheimer’s disease. What is Berberine? Berberine is a natural and cheap product similar to curcumin, available commercially. It is poorly soluble and toxic to cells. What is Alzheimer’s? It is a progressive brain disorder that typically affects people older than 65. When it affects younger individuals, it is considered early onset. The disease destroys brain cells and nerves, and disrupts the message-carrying neurotransmitters. Eventually, a person with Alzheimer’s loses the ability to perform day-to-day activities. Symptoms include memory loss, difficulty in completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, problems in speaking and writing, decreased or poor judgment, and changes in mood and personality. Alzheimer’s disease is also the most common cause of dementia — which is a syndrome and not a disease in itself, and whose symptoms include loss of memory, thinking skills, problems with language, changes in mood and deterioration in behaviour. Treatment: • There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, because its exact causes are not known. Most drugs being developed try to slow down or stop the progression of the disease.

119 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • There is a degree of consensus in the scientific community that Alzheimer’s involves two proteins, called beta amyloids and tau. When levels of either protein reach abnormal levels in the brain, it leads to the formation of plaque, which gets deposited between neurons, damaging and disrupting nerve cells. • Most existing drugs for Alzheimer’s try to target these proteins to manage some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

MARCH 2020 HERD IMMUNITY Why in news? Natural herd immunity was advocated for some time by the UK government as a strategy to contain the COVID19 pandemic in their country. About the concept • It is the indirect protection from a contagious infectious disease that happens when a population is immune either through vaccination or immunity developed through previous infection. • Vaccinated or immune people act as a buffer between the infected persons and people who aren’t vaccinated, or in whom the vaccine doesn’t trigger immunity. • Once herd immunity has been established for a while, and the ability of the disease to spread is hindered, and can eventually be eliminated. • Mass vaccination has been highly successful in inducing herd immunity for many diseases, protecting those that are unable to build up immunity, such as people with immune deficiencies or whose immune systems are being suppressed for medical reasons. • Herd immunity was recognized as a naturally occurring phenomenon in the 1930s during the measles outbreak.

120 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It does not apply to all diseases, just those that are contagious, meaning that they can be transmitted from one individual to another. Tetanus, for example, is infectious but not contagious, so herd immunity does not apply.

Challenges in creating Herd Immunity

121 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Percentage of immune population • The more infectious a disease, the greater the population immunity needed to ensure herd immunity. • For example, measles is highly contagious and one person with measles can infect up to 18 other people. In this case around 95% of people need to be immune in order for the wider group to have herd immunity. • The new coronavirus has a lower infection rate than measles, with each infected person passing it on to two or three new people, on average. For this, herd immunity should be achieved when around 60% of the population becomes immune to COVID-19. Natural herd immunity : It is achieved through infection rather than vaccination. It can be challenging to induce it through unchecked infection as there would be a very high rate of serious illness and death, with health systems overwhelmed well beyond their surge capacity, even in high-income countries. This is why herd immunity is generally pursued through vaccination programmes. Mutation within the organism • Even when vaccines are available, it is not always possible to achieve herd immunity for very long. • Some viruses, such as seasonal flu, mutate frequently, evading the body’s immune response. • So immunity doesn’t always last forever, which is why the flu shot is necessary every single year. Free Riders Problem : • When herd immunity is well established, however, some people choose to behave as ‘free riders’, essentially benefitting from everyone else getting vaccinated, while abstaining from vaccination either because they choose not to or are actively anti-vaccination. • When a population has too many of these free riders, the overall immunity level is compromised and herd immunity can be lost, putting everyone at risk.

NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR INDIAN SYSTEMS OF MEDICINE (NCI SM) BILL, 2019

122 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It repeals Indian Medicine Central Council Act, 1970 and provides for a medical education system which ensures: i. Availability of adequate and high quality medical professionals of Indian System of Medicine. ii. Adoption of the latest medical research by medical professionals of Indian System of Medicine. iii. Periodic assessment of medical institutions o An effective grievance redressal mechanism. Key features of the Bill: Constitution of the NCISM: for development and regulation of all aspects relating to education, medical profession and medical institutions of Indian System of Medicine. Functions of the NCISM include: • Framing policies for regulating medical institutions and medical professionals of Indian System of Medicine. • Assessing the requirements of healthcare related human resources and infrastructure • Ensuring compliance by the State Medical Councils of Indian System of Medicine of the regulations made under the Bill • Ensuring coordination among the autonomous boards set up under the Bill. Autonomous boards: The Bill sets up certain autonomous boards under the supervision of the NCISM. These boards are: • Board of Ayurveda • Board of Unani, Siddha, and Sowa-Rigpa • Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Indian System of Medicine • Ethics and Medical Registration Board Advisory Council for Indian System of Medicine: It will be the primary platform through which the states/union territories can put forth their views and concerns before the NCISM. Further, the Council will advise the NCISM on measures to determine and maintain the minimum standards of medical education.

123 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Entrance examinations: There will be a uniform National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for admission to under-graduate education. The Bill also proposes a National Teachers’ Eligibility Test for postgraduates of each discipline of Indian System of Medicine who wish to take up teaching that particular discipline as a profession.

NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR HOMEOPATHY BILL, 2019 The Bill seeks to repeal the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 and provide for a medical education system which ensures: • Availability of adequate and high quality homoeopathic medical professionals, • Adoption of the latest medical research by homoeopathic medical professionals Periodic assessment of medical institutions . An effective grievance redressal mechanism. Key features of the Bill include: • Constitution of the National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH): for development and regulation of all aspects relating to education, medical profession and medical institutions of Homoeopathy. • Functions of the NCH include: Framing policies for regulating medical institutions and homoeopathic medical professionals • Assessing the requirements of healthcare related human resources and infrastructure. Ensuring compliance by the State Medical Councils of Homoeopathy of the regulations made under the Bill. • Ensuring coordination among the autonomous boards set up under the Bill. • Constitution of three Autonomous Boards: Homoeopathy Education Board, Medical Assessment and Rating Board and the Board of Ethics and Registration. Advisory Council for Homoeopathy: Under the Bill, the central government will constitute an Advisory Council for Homoeopathy. The Council will be the primary platform through which the states/union territories can put forth their views and concerns before the NCH. Further, the Council will advise the NCH on measures to determine and maintain minimum standards of medical education. Entrance examinations: There will be a uniform National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for admission to under-graduate homoeopathy education. The Bill proposes a

124 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 common final year National Exit Test for the students graduating from medical institutions to obtain the license for practice.

SUPREME COURT LIFTS CURBS ON CRYPTOCURRENCIES Why in News? Recently, Supreme Court has set aside an RBI’s April 2018 circular banning regulated financial institutions such as Banks and NBFCs from trading in virtual currency/cryptocurrency. What is Cryptocurrency? • Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that uses cryptography for security and anticounterfeiting measures. • It is normally not issued by any central authority, making it immune to government interference or manipulation. • The control of each cryptocurrency works through distributed ledger technology called blockchain. • Examples include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple etc. Various benefits of cryptocurrencies include: • Difficult to counterfeit as compared to physical currency. • There aren’t usually transaction fees for cryptocurrency exchanges because the miners are compensated by the network. Benefits for customers: • The rise of cryptocurrencies offers ordinary people the rare opportunity to choose among multiple currencies in the marketplace. • Blockchain technology can be used for enhancing the efficiency of the financial system.

Arguments for banning of cryptocurrencies by RBI

• Financial stability: Lack of any underlying fiat and excessive volatility in their value was seen as an immediate threat to financial stability. Its far-reaching potential impact on the effectiveness of monetary policy itself was unknown.

125 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Investor protection and security risks: There were risks and concerns about data security, consumer protection and their use for speculation. • Theft of cryptocurrencies from exchanges soared in the first half of this year to three times the level seen for the whole of 2017. • Use in illegal activities: Concerns were raised that anonymous nature and lack of a central regulator in cryptocurrency transactions can lead to funding of a host of illegal activities such as child pornography, drug dealing, gun supplies etc. • Their anonymous nature goes against global moneylaundering rules. • International examples: Countries like China have also unleashed a regulatory crackdown.

Why ban was Challenged?

• Virtual Currencies are not legal tender but tradeable commodities and therefore that they fell outside the RBI’s regulatory ambit.

• Even assuming VCs were amenable to regulation by the RBI, RBI’s directive violates the freedom of business, trade and profession under Article 19(1)(g).

• Petitioner had argued that trading in cryptocurrencies in the absence of a law banning those was a “legitimate” business activity under the Constitution and RBI could not have denied them access to banking channels to carry on such business. Supreme Court Observation

• Supreme Court held that Virtual Currencies eluded precise definition so ban did not pass the “proportionality” test and lifted the curbs imposed by the RBI on regulated entities.

• Doctrine of Proportionality postulates that the nature and extent of the State’s interference with the exercise of a right must be proportionate to the goal it seeks to achieve.

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• Also, bench noted that the rules governing the matter would depend on what Parliament decides, based on the currently pending draft Banning of Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2019.

• It added that the RBI and the central government would have a monopoly on the creation and circulation of any official digital currency whenever such a situation arose.

• The bench, however, said that virtual currencies are neither good nor commodities and can’t be regarded as real money.

• Once virtual currencies are accepted as valid payments for the purchase of goods and services, the activity falls squarely within the RBI’s purview.

RAIDER-X Context: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore have developed a new bomb detection device called Raider-X. What is RaIDer-X? It is an explosives detection device. It can detect up to 20 explosives from a stand- off distance of two meters. Developed by the High Energy Material Research Laboratory (HEMRL) — an arm of the DRDO — in Pune and the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore. It can also discern bulk explosives even if they have been concealed. Applications: The device has various applications including narcotics, for local police, for customs and other detection agencies who need to detect various elements which may be explosive or non-explosive in nature. Significance:

127 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Most of the recent terrorist attacks had explosives that were made from easily available ingredients like petrol and gelatin sticks rather than high-end materials. And devices like RaIDer-X are incremental to thwarting the threat from homemade explosives.

HOW WILL IN-FLIGHT WIFI WORK? Context: The government has permitted airlines operating in India to provide in-flight WiFi services to passengers. Previously, the Telecom Commission had given its green signal to in-flight connectivity of Internet and mobile communications on aircraft in Indian airspace in 2018. Who can permit? The pilot may permit the access of Internet services by passengers on board an aircraft in flight, through Wi-Fi on board, when laptop, smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, e- reader or a point of sale device is used in flight mode or airplane mode. How in- flight connectivity works? In-flight connectivity systems use two kinds of technologies- terrestrial and satellite internet services. 1. Once flight mode is activated, the plane’s antenna will link to terrestrial Internet services provided by telecom service providers. 2. Then, when the aircraft has climbed to 3,000 m, the antenna will switch to satellite-based services. This way, there will be no break in Internet services to passengers, and cross- interference between terrestrial and satellite networks will be avoided. Challenges ahead: 1. Airlines will have to bear the initial cost of installing antennae on aircraft. So, the additional cost could find a way into ticket prices. 2. Apart from the equipment, airlines will have to bear additional fuel costs, given the extra weight and drag aircraft will face due to the antenna. 3. Technology and laws allow calls to be made from aircraft, but many airlines do not want noisy cabins. Benefits:

128 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Globally, more than 30 airlines allow voice calls and internet access during flights. This facility will now will help Indian airlines compete with foreign carriers. • Business travellers greatly value these services as they can continue their work commitments without any deterrence. • Other travellers can be in touch with their near and dear ones even during the flight. • Entrepreneurship and Startup Deliverables: To create a startup ecosystem by working with the technology-business incubator of IIT Mandi, Catalyst, with an approach of Knowledge Generation Technology Development Technology Translation Technology Commercialisation.

NATIONAL MISSION ON INTERDISCIPLINARY CYBER PHYSICAL SYSTEMS Context: • Department of Science and Technology (DST) has sanctioned Rs 7.25 crore to IIT Mandi to establish a Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) at the Institute.

• DST has sanctioned the funds under its National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NMICPS).

Main tasks of the Technology Innovation Hub (TIH):

1. The TIH will develop tools, education material, hands-on experiments with specialised tool kits, connecting with existing innovation ecosystems. 2. It will inter-link with different stakeholders and connect with other initiatives of the Government of India by providing an innovation platform for schools, colleges and advanced technical training institutes in the targeted areas. The deliverables include: 1. Technology Deliverables: To develop technology interface for challenges concerning landslides, environment (including climate change), air pollution, agriculture, cyber security, defence forces, healthcare, and forensics.

129 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 2. Human Resource and Skill Development Deliverables: To generate skilled manpower in HCI area at graduate, post-graduate, doctoral, post-doctoral and faculty level by organising workshops and seminars. 3. International Collaborations Deliverables: To develop and sustain existing and new collaboration with universities and organisations in India and abroad. 4. Entrepreneurship and Startup Deliverables: To create a startup ecosystem by working with the technology-business incubator of IIT Mandi, Catalyst, with an approach of Knowledge Generation Technology Development Technology Translation Technology Commercialisation.

How the TIH will work on cyber physical systems (CPS)? The TIH will also work on the development and evaluation of interfaces of IoT-based Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), where CPS contains physical elements (sensors) for collecting data and cyber elements (analytics and visualization software) for alerting/ educating people for directed action.

What is it? Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) are a new class of engineered systems that integrate computation and physical processes in a dynamic environment. CPS encompasses technology areas of Cybernetics, Mechatronics, Design and Embedded systems, Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI) among others.

About National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS):

To harness the potential of this new wave of technology and make India a leading player in CPS, the Union Cabinet approved the launch of National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) in 2018. It had a total outlay of INR 3,660 crores for a period of five years. The mission implementation would develop and bring: 1. Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and associated technologies within reach in the country,

130 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 2. adoption of CPS technologies to address India specific National / Regional issues, 3. produce Next Generation skilled manpower in CPS, 4. catalyze Translational Research, 5. accelerate entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem development in CPS, 6. give impetus to advanced research in CPS, Technology development and higher education in Science, Technology and Engineering disciplines, and 7. place India at par with other advanced countries and derive several direct and indirect benefits. Implementation: 1. The Mission aims at establishment of 15 numbers of Technology Innovation Hubs (TIH), six numbers of Application Innovation Hubs (AIH) and four numbers of Technology Translation Research Parks (TTRP). 2. These Hubs & TTRPs will connect to Academics, Industry, Central Ministries and State Government in developing solutions at reputed academic, R&D and other organizations across the country in a hub and spoke model.

POTENTIAL FISHING ZONE (PFZ) Context: The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has reported that Oceansat Satellite data are used to prepare the Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories on the potential rich fishing areas and provide to the sea faring fishermen in all states. How are these zones identified? This methodology utilizes data on chlorophyll concentration (Chl) obtained from ISRO’s Oceansat-2 satellite and the sea surface temperature from National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA / USA satellites). About Oceansat-2: • Launched in 2009, it is designed to provide service continuity for operational users of the Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) instrument on Oceansat-1. • The main objectives of OceanSat-2 are to study surface winds and ocean surface strata, observation of chlorophyll concentrations, monitoring of phytoplankton blooms, study of atmospheric aerosols and suspended sediments in the water.

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Gagan Enabled Mariner’s Instrument for Navigation and Information (GEMINI) device: For seamless and effective dissemination of emergency information and communication on disaster warnings, Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ) and Ocean States Forecasts (OSF) to fishermen, the Government launched the Gagan Enabled Mariner’s Instrument for Navigation and Information (GEMINI) device. The GEMINI device receives and transfers the data received from GAGAN satellite/s to a mobile through Bluetooth communication. A mobile application developed by INCOIS decodes and displays the information in nine regional languages.

COALBED METHANE (CBM) • India has the fifth-largest coal reserves in the world, and CBM has been looked at as a clean alternative fuel with significant prospects. • India’s CBM resources are estimated at around 92 trillion cubic feet (TCF), or 2,600 billion cubic metres (BCM). • The country’s coal and CBM reserves are found in 12 states of India, with the Gondwana sediments of eastern India holding the bulk. • The Damodar Koel valley and Son valley are prospective areas for CBM development.

What is coalbed methane (CBM)?

It is an unconventional form of natural gas found in coal deposits or coal seams. CMB is formed during the process of coalification, the transformation of plant material into coal. CBM can be used:

• In Power generation. • As Compressed natural gas (CNG) auto fuel. • As feedstock for fertilisers.

132 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Industrial uses such as in cement production, rolling mills, steel plants, and for methanol production.

Challenges and concerns:

1. Methane is a greenhouse gas emitted through CBM extraction. Global methane emissions from coal mines are projected to account for approximately 8 percent of total global methane emissions. 2. Disturbance of lands drilled and its effect on wildlife habitats results in ecosystem damage. 3. CBM production behaviour is complex and difficult to predict in the early stages of recovery. 4. Another concern is the effect water discharges from CBM development could potentially have on downstream water sources. 5. Disposal of the highly salinized water that must be removed in order to release the methane creates a challenge, as its introduction into freshwater ecosystems could have adverse effects

NIDHI PROGRAM Department of Science & Technology has launched a NIDHI program (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations) under which programmes for setting up of incubators, seed fund, accelerators and 'Proof of concept' grant for innovators and entrepreneurs have been launched. Under NIDHI, PRAYAS (Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring innovators & Startups) programme has been initiated in which established Technology Business Incubators (TBI) are supported with PRAYAS grant to support innovators and entrepreneurs with grants for ‘Proof of Concept’ and developing prototypes. A maximum grant of Rs. 220 lakh is given to a TBI for establishing a PRAYAS Centre which includes Rs.100 lakh for PRAYAS SHALA, Rs. 20 lakh for operational cost of PRAYAS Centre and maximum of Rs. 10 lakh to one innovator for developing prototype. Funding for ten innovators is given to the TBI in a year.

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EXOMAR Context: Launch of ExoMars rover delayed to 2022. About the rover: • The European-built Rosalind Franklin rover, named for the famed British chemist and Xray crystallographer whose work contributed to DNA research, recently passed final pre-launch thermal and vacuum tests at an Airbus facility in Toulouse, France. • Rosalind Franklin is the first European Mars rover. About ExoMars: • It is a joint endeavour between ESA and the Russian space agency, Roscosmos. • The primary goal of the ExoMars programme is to address the question of whether life has ever existed on Mars. The programme comprises two missions. • The first launched in March 2016 and consists of the Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and Schiaparelli, an entry, descent and landing demonstrator module. • TGO’s main objectives are to search for evidence of methane and other trace atmospheric gases that could be signatures of active biological or geological processes. The Schiaparelli probe crashed during its attempt to land on Mars. • The second, comprising a rover and surface platform, is planned for 2022. Together they will address the question of whether life has ever existed on Mars. Other Mars Missions: Despite the delay in the second ExoMars launch until 2022, three other Mars missions remain scheduled for launch during this year’s planetary launch window in July and August. 1. NASA’s Perseverance rover, formerly known as Mars 2020, will take off in July from Cape Canaveral. 2. A Chinese Mars rover is also being prepared for launch later this year. 3. The United Arab Emirates’ Hope Mars orbiter is slated to launch on a Japanese H-2A rocket this summer.

NATIONAL SUPERCOMPUTING MISSION (NSM)

134 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It is being implemented and steered jointly by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY). • Also by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. Focus of the mission: • The Mission envisages empowering national academic and R&D institutions spread over the country by installing a vast supercomputing grid comprising of more than 70 high-performance computing facilities. • These supercomputers will also be networked on the National Supercomputing grid over the National Knowledge Network (NKN). The NKN is another programme of the government which connects academic institutions and R&D labs over a high speed network. • The Mission includes development of highly professional High Performance Computing (HPC) aware human resource for meeting challenges of development of these applications.

India has developed an Indigenous server (RUDRA), which can meet the

HPC requirements of all governments and PSUs. This is the first time that a server system was made in India, along with the full software stack Significance:developed by C-DAC. 1.PARAM World SHIVAY-wide, the supercomputing first supercomputer facilities assembled haveindigenously enabled, was countries in their S&T instcapabilitiesalled in IIT (BHU), in areasfollowed such by PARAM as designing SHAKTI AND vehicles, PARAM BRAHMAaeroplanes, at massive structures IIT-likeKharagpur high andrise IISER, buildings Pune, respectively. and bridges, infrastructure, discovery of new life saving drugs, discovery and extraction of new energy sources including oil, natural gas etc. 2. Over the years, supercomputers have benefitted mankind in several ways. Weather prediction has reached accuracy of forecast as well as real time tracking of natural phenomenon. 3. Timely warning of cyclones in the recent past have saved many lives and property. The Mission aims to further such capabilities beyond current levels.

FITNESS TRADE-OFFS LINKED TO POPULATION SIZE IN E. COLI

135 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Escherichia coli Escherichia coli is a bacterial species commonly found in the gut of humans and several animals. It is a rod shaped, gram negative bacteria that are mostly harmless in nature. However, some of their species can cause illnesses of the digestive system. Disease The bacteria can cause food poisoning in its host. It is transmitted through the oral- faecal route. The consumption of contaminated food and water can lead to diseases of the digestive system with symptoms like vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, fever, etc. Fitness-tradeoff Living organisms have a finite energy capacity i.e. an organism cannot maximize all its traits simultaneously. This is called fitness trade-off. This means that when an organism increases its proficiency in one trait (eg: adaptation to a certain environment), its proficiency in the other traits declines. BIOFORTIFIED WHEAT VARIETY The scientists at the Agharkar Research Institute have developed a new biofortified variety of durum wheat for eradicating malnutrition in India. About the Variety The Durum wheat variety MACS 4028 is a semi-dwarf variety of the cereal crop developed by the Agharkar Research Institute in Pune- an autonomous research centre under DST. It has 14.7% higher protein content than regular wheat and also other minerals like iron (46.1ppm) and zinc (40.3ppm). Resistance The variety has shown resistance against a number of common diseases and pests that affect wheat crops in general- stem rust, leaf rust, foliar aphids, root aphids, and brown wheat mite. Durum Wheat Durum wheat is also called as pasta wheat or macaroni wheat. After the common wheat, it is the second most cultivated type of wheat in the world. The term ‘Durum’ is from Latin and means ‘hard’ in reference to its hardiness. Biofortification

136 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Biofortification is the practice of breeding crops to increase their nutritional value. This is done either through selective breeding or through genetic engineering. It is one of the strategies for eradicating malnutrition and ensuring nutritional security for the masses.

“HEMOSTAT” Scientists at the INST (Institute of Nano Science and Technology), that operates under the Department of Science & Technology, have developed starch based ‘Hemostat’. Starch Based Hemostat The starch-based ‘hemostat’ are developed to stop rapid blood loss during accidents, as it physically absorbs excess fluid and concentrates the natural clotting factors in blood. The product possesses increased absorption capacity, improved absorption, inexpensive and is biodegradable. Hemostat Hemostats are surgical tools that are used to control bleeding. Blood Coagulation Rapid Blood coagulation is important to stop blood loss. When bold oozes out of cuts, the circulating substance in the blood called the coagulants changes the blood into an insoluble gel. This process requires coagulation factors, phospholipids and calcium. There are 12 coagulation factors in human body. The Coagulation factors are manufactured in liver. Institute of Nano Science The Institute of Nano Science operates under Department of Science and Technology. It was established under the National Mission of Nano Science and Technology or NANO mission. The mission aims to promote growth of nanoscience and technology.

METHANOTROPHIC BACTERIA CULTURE The Agharkar Research Institute of Pune has isolated 45 strains of methanotrophic bacteria. These bacteria are capable of reducing methane emissions in rice plants. Highlights

137 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Apart from isolating the strains, the scientists have also created methanotrophic culture. The isolated bacteria were from southern and western India. What are Methanotrophs? Methanotrophs are environmental organisms that have a major role in cycling of methane. They oxidize methane in the environment. The methanotrophic bacteria oxidize methane through anaerobic metabolism. The methanotrophs are used as bio- inoculants. What are Bio-Inoculants? Bio-Inoculant are strains of bacteria, algae or fungi. They take in nitrogen from atmosphere and prepare nitrates required for plants. By this, use of fertilizers are reduced. They also increase zinc and phosphorous availability for plants. Benefits After carbon-dioxide, methane is the second largest green house gas contributor. With the use of methanotrophic bacteria in agriculture, emission of methane shall be greatly reduced. Methane traps 84 times of heat trapped by carbon-dioxide.

FEBRUARY 2020 GLOBAL GO TO THINK TANK INDEX About the Index:

• The Index is released by University of Pennsylvania each year since 2008. • It evaluates public-policy research analysis and engagement organisations that generate policy oriented research, analysis, and advice on domestic and international issues.

138 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It claims to enable policy makers and the public to make informed decisions on public policy. Performance of institutions in India: 1. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has been placed at No. 16. CSE climbed up two notches in the 14th version of the report. 2. The organisation also moved up three places among ‘best independent think tanks’ to be at No.123 in the world and sixth among Indian think tanks. 3. Globally, it was ranked 41 of 60 organisations committed to energy and resource policy. 4. India's Observer Research Foundation (ORF) has jumped more than 90 places to 27th position among 176 global think tanks. 5. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation was the highest-ranked Indian think tank with a political party affiliation in the world, getting a rank of 31st, among 38 such institutions. 6. India Foundation and Vivekananda International Foundation were ranked 36th and 37th on that list.

SOPHISTICATED ANALYTICAL & TECHNICAL HELP INSTITUTES (SATHI) About the scheme: Aim: To address the need for building shared, professionally managed and strong S&T infrastructure in the country which is readily accessible to academia, start-ups, manufacturing, industry and R&D labs etc. Implementation: • These Centres are expected to house major analytical instruments to provide common services of high end analytical testing, thus avoiding duplication and reduced dependency on foreign sources. • These would be operated with a transparent, open access policy. • DST has already set up three such centres in the country, one each at IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi and BHU. Objectives of the Scheme: • To address the problems of accessibility, maintenance, redundancy and duplication of expensive equipment in the institutions.

139 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • This will also foster a strong culture of collaboration between institutions and across disciplines to take advantage of developments, innovations and expertise in diverse areas.

REVERSE OSMOSIS (RO) Context: The Union Environment Ministry has issued a notification to comply with the NGT order which prohibited the use of reverse osmosis (RO) purifiers in places where total dissolved solids (TDS) in the supplied water are below 500 mg per litre. The NGT had ordered a ban on RO filters on the grounds that they wasted water and that, in the process of removing salts, they often deprived drinking water of essential salts, which could affect the nutritional intake of the people. Background: Current BIS regulations consider 500 mg/litre—1,200 mg/litre of total dissolved solids, which consist of salts and some organic matter, as acceptable. Osmosis and RO: Osmosis involves ‘a solvent (such as water) naturally moving from an area of low solute concentration, through a membrane, to an area of high solute concentration. A reverse osmosis system applies an external pressure to reverse the natural flow of solvent and so seawater or brackish water is pressurised against one surface of the membrane, causing salt-depleted water to move across the membrane, releasing clean water from the low-pressure side’. What are the problems with RO plants? • Deposition of brine (highly concentrated salt water) along the shores. • Affects fauna and flora: Hyper salinity along the shore affects plankton, which is the main food for several of these fish species. The high pressure motors needed to draw in the seawater end up sucking in small fish and life forms, thereby crushing and killing them — again a loss of marine resource. • Construction of the RO plants required troves of groundwater. • Freshwater that was sucked out and is replaced by salt water, rendering it unfit for the residents around the desalination plants. • Cost and time: On an average, it costs about ₹900 crore to build a 100 MLD-plant and, as the Chennai experience has shown, about five years for a plant to be set up.

140 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Energy needed: To remove the salt required, there has to be a source of electricity, either a power plant or a diesel or battery source. Is RO water healthy? There are concerns that desalinated the RO water may be short of vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, sodium, potassium and carbonates. Most RO plants put the water through a ‘post-treatment’ process whereby salts are added to make TDS around 300 mg/l.

EASE 3.0 Context: FM Nirmala Sitharaman launches Ease 3.0 for tech-enabled banking. This move is expected to change the customer's experience at the Public Sector Banks (PSBs). What is it? Ease (Enhanced Access and Service Excellence) 3.0 reform agenda aims at providing smart, tech-enabled public sector banking for aspiring India. New features that customers of public sector banks may experience under EASE 3.0 reforms agenda include facilities like: 1. Palm Banking for "End-to-end digital delivery of financial service". 2. "Banking on Go" via EASE banking outlets at frequently visited spots like malls, stations, complexes, and campuses. Background: • PSB Reforms EASE Agenda is a common reform agenda for PSBs aimed at institutionalizing clean and smart banking. • EASE 2.0 built on the foundation laid in EASE 1.0 and furthered the progress on reforms.It was launched in January 2018, and the subsequent edition of the program ― • In EASE 2.0, the government had proposed pushing liquidity in the public sector banks, reconstituting the management committee and possible mergers among the ideal partners in the Indian banking sector.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL TEXTILES MISSION

141 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the setting up of a National Technical Textiles Mission at an total outlay of ₹1,480 Crore. Aim: To position the country as a global leader in technical textiles and increase the use of technical textiles in the domestic market. Key facts: The Mission will be implemented for four years from 2020-2021 and will have four components: 1. The first component will focus on research and development and innovation and will have an outlay of ₹1,000 crore. The research will be at both, fibre level and application-based in geo, agro, medical, sports and mobile textiles and development of bio-degradable technical textiles. 2. The second component will be for promotion and development of market for technical textiles. The Mission will aim at taking domestic market size to $40 billion to $50 billion by 2024. 3. The third component will focus on export promotion so that technical textile exports from the country reach from the ₹14,000 crore now to ₹20,000 crore by 2021-2022 and ensure 10% average growth every year till the Mission ends. 4. The last component will be on education, training and skill development. What are technical textiles? Technical textiles are defined as textile materials and products manufactured primarily for their technical performance and functional properties rather than aesthetic and decorative characteristics. Technical textiles include textiles for automotive applications, medical textiles, geotextiles, agrotextiles, and protective clothing.

NASA’S VOYAGER 2 SPACECRAFT-NEPTUNE & URANUS Context: NASA has managed to fix its Voyager-2 probe remotely, almost 11.5 billion miles away from its location. Background: The probe has reportedly been acting in an unexpected manner as it failed to carry out a maneuver as planned on January 25. Moreover, the glitch in the probe was detected by the spacecraft’s fault detection software which was relayed to NASA. Accomplishments so far:

142 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Voyager 2 is the only probe ever to study Neptune and Uranus during planetary flybys. It is the second man-made object to leave the heliosphere. • Voyager 2 is the only spacecraft to have visited all four gas giant planets — Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune — and discovered 16 moons, as well as phenomena like Neptune’s mysteriously transient Great Dark Spot, the cracks in Europa’s ice shell, and ring features at every planet. What is Interstellar space? Scientists use the heliopause to mark where interstellar space begins, although depending on how you define our solar system it can stretch all the way to the Oort Cloud, which begins 1,000 times farther away from the sun than Earth’s orbit. The Heliosphere: • The heliosphere is a bubble around the sun created by the outward flow of the solar wind from the sun and the opposing inward flow of the interstellar wind. • That heliosphere is the region influenced by the dynamic properties of the sun that are carried in the solar wind–such as magnetic fields, energetic particles and solar wind plasma. The heliopause marks the end of the heliosphere and the beginning of interstellar space. About Voyager mission: • Launched in the 1970’s, and the probes sent by NASA were only meant to explore the outer planets – but they just kept on going. • Voyager 1 departed Earth on 5 September 1977, a few days after Voyager 2 and left our solar system in 2013. • The mission objective of the Voyager Interstellar Mission (VIM) is to extend the NASA exploration of the solar system beyond the neighbourhood of the outer planets to the outer limits of the Sun’s sphere of influence, and possibly beyond.

SOLAR ORBITER MISSION: Context: Solar Orbiter mission was launched recently. The mission is a collaboration between ESA (the European Space Agency) and NASA. The spacecraft was launched from Cape Canaveral on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. About Solar Orbiter:

143 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Solar Orbiter is a mission dedicated to solar and heliospheric physics. It was selected as the first medium-class mission of ESA's Cosmic Vision 2015-2025 Programme. • This is the first mission that will provide images of the sun's north and south poles using a suite of six instruments on board that will capture the spacecraft's view. It is a seven-year mission and will come within 26 million miles of the sun. • It will be able to brave the heat of the sun because it has a custom titanium heat shield coated in calcium phosphate so that it can endure temperatures up to 970 degrees Fahrenheit. Objectives: • Solar Orbiter will be used to examine how the Sun creates and controls the heliosphere, the vast bubble of charged particles blown by the solar wind into the interstellar medium. • The spacecraft will combine in situ and remote sensing observations to gain new information about the solar wind, the heliospheric magnetic field, solar energetic particles, transient interplanetary disturbances and the Sun's magnetic field. Significance: Understanding the sun's magnetic field and solar wind are key because they contribute to space weather, which impacts Earth by interfering with networked systems like GPS, communications and even astronauts on the International Space Station. The sun's magnetic field is so massive that it stretches beyond Pluto, providing a pathway for solar wind to travel directly across the solar system. Background: Solar Orbiter follows the Ulysses spacecraft, another collaboration between ESA and NASA that launched in 1990 and also flew over the sun's poles. Ulysses completed three passes of the sun before its mission ended in 2009, but its view was limited to what it could see from the sun's equator.

VERY LARGE TELESCOPE Context: Using the European Space Organisation’s (ESO) Very Large Telescope (VLT), astronomers have noticed the unprecedented dimming of Betelgeuse, a red supergiant star (over 20 times bigger than the Sun) in the constellation Orion.

144 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Along with the dimming, the star’s shape has been changing as well, as per recent photographs of the star taken using the VISIR instrument on the VLT. About VLT: • It is the world's most advanced optical instrument, consisting of four Unit Telescopes with main mirrors of 8.2m diameter and four movable 1.8m diameter Auxiliary Telescopes. • The telescopes can work together, to form a giant ‘interferometer’, the ESO Very Large Telescope Interferometer, allowing astronomers to see details up to 25 times finer than with the individual telescopes. • Location: Atacama Desert, Northern Chile. • The VLT consists of four individual telescopes. They are generally used separately but can be used together to achieve very high angular resolution. • The four separate optical telescopes are known as Antu, Kueyen, Melipal, and Yepun, which are all words for astronomical objects in the Mapuche language. How it works? Significance: The light beams are combined in the VLTI using a complex system of mirrors in underground tunnels where the light paths must be kept equal to distances less than 1/1000 mm over a hundred metres. • With this kind of precision the VLTI can reconstruct images with an angular resolution of milliarcseconds, equivalent to distinguishing the two headlights of a car at the distance of the Moon. • Individual telescope help see objects that are four billion (four thousand million) times fainter than what can be seen with the unaided eye.

GISAT-1 — GEO IMAGING SATELLITE Context: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to launch GISAT-1, a new earth observation satellite, in the first week of March It will be the first of two planned Indian EO spacecraft to be placed in a geostationary orbit of around 36,000 km. It will apparently be in a fixed spot looking over the Indian continent at all times. It will have high-resolution cameras which will help to monitor any changes in borders and the overall geographical condition of the country, etc

145 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Background: • Earth Observation Satellites of ISRO has been successfully able to establish many operational applications in the country. Both at Central and State level, there are large number of users who utilise space based inputs for various purposes. • Some of the important missions of ISRO, in terms of IRS series of satellites, that has enabled unique applications of space based imaging are, Cartosat-1 & 2, Resourcesat-1 & 2, Oceansat-1 & 2, Risat-1, Megha-Tropiques, SARAL, Scatsat, INSAT series, and host of other satellites.

ADITYA- L1 MISSION Context: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to send its first scientific expedition to study the Sun. Named Aditya-L1, the mission, expected to be launched early next year, will observe the Sun from a close distance, and try to obtain information about its atmosphere and magnetic field. About Aditya- L1 mission: It is India’s first solar mission. It will be launched using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in XL configuration. The space-based observatory will have seven payloads (instruments) on board to study the Sun’s corona, solar emissions, solar winds and flares, and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), and will carry out round-the- clock imaging of the Sun. Objectives: 1. Study the sun’s outer most layers, the corona and the chromospheres. 2. Collect data about coronal mass ejection, which will also yield information for space weather prediction. Significance of the mission: The data from Aditya mission will be immensely helpful in discriminating between different models for the origin of solar storms and also for constraining how the storms evolve and what path they take through the interplanetary space from the Sun to the Earth. Position of the satellite:

146 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 In order to get the best science from the sun, continuous viewing of the sun is preferred without any occultation/ eclipses and hence, Aditya- L1 satellite will be placed in the halo orbit around the Lagrangian point 1 (L1) of the sun-earth system. What are Lagrangian points and halo orbit? • Lagrangian points are the locations in space where the combined gravitational pull of two large masses roughly balance each other. • Any small mass placed at that location will remain at constant distances relative to the large masses. • There are five such points in Sun-Earth system and they are denoted as L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5. A halo orbit is a periodic three-dimensional orbit near the L1, L2 or L3. Why do we study the sun and the solar wind? • The sun is a source of light and heat for life on Earth. The more we know about it, the more we can understand how life on Earth developed. • It is the source of the solar wind; a flow of ionized gases from the sun that streams past Earth at speeds of more than 500 km per second (a million miles per hour). • Disturbances in the solar wind shake Earth’s magnetic field and pump energy into the radiation belts, part of a set of changes in near-Earth space known as space weather. • Effects On satellites: Space weather can change the orbits of satellites, shorten their lifetimes, or interfere with onboard electronics. The more we learn about what causes space weather – and how to predict it – the more we can protect the satellites we depend on. • Safety and preparedness: The solar wind dominates the space environment. As we send spacecraft and astronauts further and further from home, we must understand this space environment just as early seafarers needed to understand the ocean.

MUKTOSHRI- ARSENIC-RESISTANT RICE Context: West Bengal government’s rice research centre has come up with a new variety of rice called Muktoshri that can be grown in arsenic prone areas.

147 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 It was developed jointly by the Rice Research Station at Chinsurah, coming under West Bengal’s Agriculture Department and the National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow. Background: West Bengal has a high concentration of arsenic in groundwater, with 83 blocks across seven districts having higher arsenic levels than permissible limits. Arsenic- Key facts: • Arsenic is naturally present at high levels in the groundwater of a number of countries. It is also present in rocks and soils. • Arsenic is highly toxic in its inorganic form. Permissible limit: World Health Organization’s provisional guideline value for arsenic in drinking water is 0.01 mg/l (10 μg/l). The permissible limit of arsenic in India in the absence of an alternative source is 0.05 mg/l (50 μg/l).

Harmful effects: • Contaminated water used for drinking, food preparation and irrigation of food crops poses the greatest threat to public health from arsenic. • Long-term exposure to arsenic from drinking-water and food can cause cancer and skin lesions. • It has also been associated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes. • In utero and early childhood exposure has been linked to negative impacts on cognitive development and increased deaths in young adults. What’s the difference between organic arsenic and inorganic arsenic? Atoms of arsenic bond with other elements to form molecules — if carbon is one of these elements, then the arsenic compound is an organic compound. If there is no carbon present, then the arsenic compound is in an inorganic compound. Inorganic arsenic is a known human carcinogen — it is this form of arsenic that is linked with increased risks of cancer and other health effects.

“APIARY ON WHEELS”

148 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 On February 13, 2020, the Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) launched “Apiary on Wheels”. It is a unique concept framed by KVIC (Khadi and Village Industries Commission). The main aim of “Apiary on Wheels” is to make migration easy. Highlights • Apiary on wheels is an approach to make beekeeping simpler. It is a platform to carry 20 Bee Boxes. The vehicle has 2 large wheels on either sides and 4 separate compartments to place the boxes. • It also has a solar panel that automatically powers a fan when the temperature inside the boxes reaches 35 degree Celsius. • Also, it is designed in such a way that it can easily be connected with tractors or trolleys. • As a beginning, they are to be placed in mustard farms. Significance It addresses the challenges faced by the beekeepers. Bee keeping involves laborious and mental challenges such a placing the bee boxes in strategic positions, migrating the bee boxes and fulfil the nourishment needs of the bees. The Apiary on Wheels addresses all the above issues. The concept was launched as a part of National Honey Mission launched in 2017 National Honey Mission The mission since its launch has been training beekeepers, educating unemployed youths, distributing bee boxes. Under the mission, KVIC provides training and awareness to Bee farmers.

NATIONAL MISSION ON QUANTUM TECHNOLOGIES & APPLICATIONS (NM-QTA) Why in News? The government in its Budget 2020 has announced the largest ever science mission National Mission on Quantum Technologies & Applications (NM-QTA). Background • Quantum technologies are rapidly developing globally with a huge disruptive potential that is likely to change entire paradigm of computation, communication and encryption.

149 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Recently, a quantum computer built by Google, called Sycamore, took 200 seconds to perform a calculation that the world’s fastest supercomputer, Summit, would have taken 10,000 years to accomplish. About the mission • Ministry: It will be implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology. • Budget Outlay: It is proposed to provide an outlay of Rs.8000 crore over a period five years. • The areas of focus for the Mission will be in fundamental science, translation, technology development, human and infrastructural resource generation, innovation and start-ups to address issues concerning national priorities. • Applications which will receive boost include those in aero-space engineering, numerical weather prediction, simulations, securing the communications & financial transactions, cyber security, advanced manufacturing, health, agriculture, education and other important sectors with focus on creation of high skilled jobs, human resources development, start-ups & entrepreneurship leading to technology lead economic growth. Significance of the mission • Support to advanced and interdisciplinary research projects in quantum technology through government’s financial and organizational support. • India is the third largest when it comes to publishing papers, but it doesn’t translate into creating actual products, thus the gap between research and product development needs to be reduced. • Push to next generation transformative technologies: like quantum computers and computing, quantum communication, quantum key distribution, quantum encryption, crypt analysis, quantum devices, quantum sensing, quantum materials, quantum clock and so on. • Putting India on the world's Quantum-map: A boost in Quantum computing will help India to come on par with the United States and China. • Creation of innovative applications by industries: It will thereby stimulate economic growth and job creation, which will feed back into a growing quantum- based economy.

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SCIENTIFIC UTILISATION THROUGH RESEARCH AUGMENTATION PRIME PRODUCTS FROM INDIGENOUS COWS (SUTRA PIC) Why in News? • The government has unveiled a programme SUTRA PIC to research on ‘indigenous’ cows. About SUTRA PIC The program will involve participation of Research Institutions, Academics, Grassroots Organizations and so on to carry out R & D work, technology development and capacity building at local level covering following five thematic areas: • Uniqueness of Indigenous Cows: Major aim under this theme is the systematic scientific investigation of uniqueness of pure Indigenous Indian cows. • Prime-products from Indigenous Cows for Medicine and Health: The research proposals under this theme should undertake detailed scientific investigation of chemical profiling, identification of bioactive principle responsible for enhancing activity of antibiotics and anticancer drugs, and other medicinal properties of Prime Products from indigenous cow from modern perspective. • Prime-products from Indigenous Cows for Agricultural Applications: The project proposals under this theme will aim to perform scientific investigations of role of Prime Products from Indigenous cows on plant growth, soil health and providing immunity in plant system, their application as organic manure and bio- pesticide in agriculture, among others uses. • Prime-products from Indigenous Cows for Food and Nutrition: The proposals under this theme will aim to perform scientific research on: • Complete characterization of milk and milk products derived from Indian indigenous cows. • Nutritional and therapeutic properties of curd and ghee prepared from indigenous breeds of cows by traditional methods • Development of standards for traditionally processed dairy products of Indian origin cow • Identification of Bio/Chemical markers to authenticate the quality of ghrita.

151 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • To be funded by multiple scientific ministries, the initiative is led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

GAGANYAAN MISSION Context: The ISRO Chairman announced in a press briefing that four astronauts have been selected for the country’s first manned mission to space, called Gaganyaan. Indian Human Space Flight Programme: ISRO aims to launch its maiden Human Space Mission, Gaganyaan before the 75th anniversary of India’s independence in 2022. Objectives of the Mission: 1. Enhancement of science and technology levels in the country 2. A national project involving several institutes, academia and industry 3. Improvement of industrial growth 4. Inspiring youth 5. Development of technology for social benefits 6. Improving international collaboration Relevance of a Manned Space Mission for India: • Boost to industries: The Indian industry will find large opportunities through participation in the highly demanding Space missions. Gaganyaan Mission is expected will source nearly 60% of its equipment from the Indian private sector. • Employment: According to the ISRO chief, the Gaganyaan mission would create 15,000 new employment opportunities, 13,000 of them in private industry and the space organisation would need an additional manpower of 900. • Technological development: Human Space flights are frontier field in the science and technology. The challenges the Human Space Flights provide to India, and the benefits accruing from taking up those missions will be very high and will lead to further thrust for technological developments in India • Spurs research and development: It will boost good research and technology development. With a large number of researchers with proper equipment involved, HSF will thrust significant research in areas such as materials processing, astro-biology, resources mining, planetary chemistry, planetary orbital calculus and many other areas

152 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Motivation: Human space flight will provide that inspiration to the youth and also the national public mainstream. It would inspire young generation into notable achievements and enable them to play their legitimate role in challenging future activities • Prestige: India will be the fourth country to launch human space mission. The Gaganyaan will not only bring about prestige to the nation but also establish India’s role as a key player in the space industry. Challenges for astronauts: 1. The astronauts will have to adapt to the change in gravitational field. The change in gravity affects hand-eye and head-eye coordination. Bones may lose minerals adding to the risk of osteoporosis related fractures. 2. Lack of exercise and improper diet make them lose muscle strength and cause develop vision problems. 3. Once they are in space, astronauts will receive over 10 times more radiation than what people are subjected to on earth. It can cause cancer, nervous system damage and trigger nausea, vomiting, and anorexia and fatigue. Without pressure, human blood heats up. 4. Despite the training, behavioural issues may crop up due to isolation leading to depression, fatigue, sleep disorders and psychiatric disorders.

INDIAN SCIENCE CONGRESS Context: 107th Indian Science Congress is being held at the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Theme: “Science & Technology: Rural Development”. Background: Indian Science Congress is organised by the Indian Science Congress Association every year in the first week of January. About Indian Science Congress Association: The Indian Science Congress Association was started in the year 1914 in Kolkata and has a membership of more than 30,000 scientists. Origin: It owes its origin to the foresight and initiative of two British chemists, namely, Professor J. L. Simonsen and Professor P. S. MacMahon. It occurred to them that scientific research in India might be stimulated if an annual meeting of research

153 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 workers somewhat on the lines of the British Association for the Advancement of Science could be arranged. Objectives: 1. To advance and promote the cause of science in India. 2. To hold an annual congress at a suitable place in India. 3. To publish such proceedings, journals, transactions and other publications as may be considered desirable. 4. To secure and manage funds and endowments for the promotion of Science including the rights of disposing of or selling all or any portion of the properties of the Association. 5. To do and perform any or all other acts, matters and things as are conductive to, or incidental to, or necessary for, the above objects.

PROJECT NETRA (Network for space object Tracking and Analysis) Context: Indian Space Research Organisation has inked a pact with Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) to pave the way for collaboration in establishing optical telescope facilities under Project ‘NETRA’ for tracking space objects. What is Project NETRA ? Under the project, the ISRO plans to put up many observational facilities: connected radars, telescopes; data processing units and a control centre. They can, among others, spot, track and catalogue objects as small as 10 cm, up to a range of 3,400 km and equal to a space orbit of around 2,000 km. Significance of the project: 1. The project will give India its own capability in space situational awareness (SSA) like the other space powers — which is used to ‘predict’ threats from debris to Indian satellites. 2. NETRA’s eventual goal is to capture the GEO, or geostationary orbit, scene at 36,000 km where communication satellites operate. 3. The effort would make India a part of international efforts towards tracking, warning about and mitigating space debris.

Need:

154 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Currently there are 15 functional Indian communication satellites in the geostationary orbit of 36,000 km; 13 remote sensing satellites in LEO of up to 2,000 km; and eight navigation satellites in medium earth orbits. Their protection is utmost importance for India. Background: Space junk is an ever-growing problem with more than 7,500 tonnes of redundant hardware now thought to be circling the Earth. Ranging from old rocket bodies and defunct spacecraft through to screws and even flecks of paint – this material poses a collision hazard to operational missions. The rising population of space debris increases the potential danger to all space vehicles, but especially to the International Space Station (ISS), space shuttles, satellites and other spacecraft.

SCIENTIFIC SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (SSR) POLICY Context: Centre is in advanced stages of preparing a policy on implementing scientific social responsibility (SSR). The draft has already been released. About SSR Policy: India is going to be possibly the first country in the world to implement a Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) Policy on the lines of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). A draft of the new policy was recently made available by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Aims: 1. To encourage science and technology (S&T) institutions and individual scientists in the country to proactively engage in science outreach activities to connect science with the society. 2. To harness latent potential of the scientific community for strengthening linkages between science and society, and for making S&T ecosystem vibrant. 3. To develop a mechanism for ensuring access to scientific knowledge, transferring benefits of science to meet societal needs, promoting collaborations to identify problems and develop solutions. Highlights of the Draft:

155 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 1. Under the proposed policy, individual scientists or knowledge workers will be required to devote at least 10 person-days of SSR per year for exchanging scientific knowledge to society. 2. It also recognises the need to provide incentives for outreach activities with necessary budgetary support. 3. It has also been proposed to give credit to knowledge workers/scientists for individual SSR activities in their annual performance appraisal and evaluation. 4. No institution would be allowed to outsource or sub-contract their SSR activities and projects. 5. The draft defines SSR as “the ethical obligation of knowledge workers in all fields of science and technology to voluntarily contribute their knowledge and resources to the widest spectrum of stakeholders in society, in a spirit of service and conscious reciprocity”. 6. A central agency will be established at DST to implement the SSR. Other ministries would also be encouraged to make their own plans to implement SSR as per their mandate. Need for SSR: When most research is being done by using taxpayers’ money, the scientific establishment has an ethical obligation of “giving back” to the society. SSR is not only about scientific impact upon society but also about the social impact upon science. SSR would therefore strengthen the knowledge ecosystem and bring efficiencies in harnessing science for the benefit of society

LITHIUM SULPHUR BATTERY Context: Researchers at the University of Monash in Australia have managed to create a super-capacity prototype by re-engineering a Lithium Sulphur (Li-S) battery. Is it new? Li-S batteries are not new. But they had an intrinsic problem with the sulphur electrode, which would break after repeated charge cycles, making its superior capacity redundant. The sulphur cathode would break because of expansion and contraction during cycles. How was this problem overcome?

156 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • To overcome this problem, the researchers gave the electrodes more space to expand and contract. The electrodes are bound inside the battery using polymers. • The research team used lesser quantity of these adhesives so that the electrodes had more spaceout structures inside them. • These structures behaved more like bridges between the sulphur particles rather than a dense network, which stopped the electrodes from disintegrating. How it works? The lithium-sulphur batteries operate in the same way as regular lithium-ion work- lithium ions flow between electrodes producing power while not being chemically changed. Charging a battery involves those ions being returned to their starting positions for the process to begin anew. Significance: • This battery that has five times the capacity of a traditional lithium ion battery. • It can retain 99 per cent of its charge even after 200 charge cycles. Li-S batteries are also many times cheaper than lithium ion batteries that could bring down the cost of electric mobility.

LASER INTERFEROMETER GRAVITATIONAL WAVE OBSERVATORY (LIGO) PROJECT Context: An international team led by LIGO-Virgo scientists has identified another event of gravitational ripples from a collision of two neutron stars, making it the second time this type of occurrence has ever been observed in gravitational waves. Background: In August 2017, the first observation of gravitational ripples from a neutron star collision made history for being the first time that both gravitational waves and light were detected from the same cosmic occurrence. What is LIGO? It is a massive observatory for detecting cosmic gravitational waves and for carrying out experiments. The objective is to use gravitational-wave observations in astronomical studies. The project operates three gravitational-wave (GW) detectors. Two are at Hanford, Washington, northwestern US, and one is at Livingston in Louisiana, south-eastern US.

157 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 The proposed LIGO India project aims to move one advanced LIGO detector from Hanford to India. About LIGO- India project: It is piloted by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Department of Science and Technology (DST). The LIGO-India project will be jointly coordinated and executed by three Indian research institutions: the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune and Department of Atomic Energy organisations: Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), Gandhinagar and the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore. Benefits for India: 1. The project will bring unprecedented opportunities for scientists and engineers to dig deeper into the realm of gravitational wave and take global leadership in this new astronomical frontier. 2. The LIGO-India project will also bring considerable opportunities in cutting-edge technology for the Indian industry which will be engaged in the construction of the eight-km long beam tube at ultra-high vacuum on a levelled terrain. 3. With its establishment, India will join the global network of gravitational wave detectors. 4. Establishing an observatory in India also assumes importance because the further the distance between the observatories, the greater will be the accuracy in locating gravity waves.

POLYCRACK TECHNOLOGY Context: The country’s first Government-owned Waste-to-Energy Plant was recently commissioned at the Mancheswar Carriage Repair Workshop in Odisha. The plant, a patented technology called Polycrack, is first-of-its-kind in the Indian Railways and fourth in the country. It converts multiple feed stocks into hydrocarbon liquid fuels, gas, carbon and water. What is Polycrack?

158 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It is the world’s very first patented heterogeneous catalytic process which converts multiple feedstocks into hydrocarbon liquid fuels, gas, carbon as well as water. • The waste generated will become the feeder material for the waste to energy plant. • The energy which will be produced at the plant, will be in the form of light diesel oil and this oil will be used to light furnaces. The plant, having a capacity of 500 kg per batch can be fed with the following: • All kinds of existing plastic • Petroleum sludge • Un segregated MSW with moisture up to 50 per cent • E-waste • Automobile fluff • Organic waste including bamboo, garden waste • Jathropa fruit and palm bunch Advantages : • The pre-segregation of waste is not required for processing in the plant. The waste as collected from the source, can be directly fed into the polycrack plant. • The plant has high tolerance to moisture hence drying of the waste after treatment, is not required. • The waste is processed in the plant and reformed within a period of 24 hours. • The biological decomposition is not allowed as the waste is treated in the plant as it is received. • All the constituents are converted to valuable energy therefore, making it a zero discharge process through the plant. • The plant does not cause atmospheric emission during the process unlike the other conventional methods except for the combustion of gases which have pollutants less than the prescribed norms across the world.

THIRTY METER TELESCOPE (TMT)

159 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Context: India, a partner in the construction of one of the largest telescopes in the world, TMT, has said it wants the project to be moved out of the proposed site at Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano in Hawaii. About TMT: The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is an astronomical observatory with an extremely large telescope (ELT). It is an international project being funded by scientific organisations of Canada, China, India, Japan and USA. Planned location: Mauna Kea on the island of Hawaii in the US state of Hawaii. Purpose: The TMT is designed for near-ultraviolet to mid-infrared observations, featuring adaptive optics to assist in correcting image blur. Significance: 1. TMT will enable scientists to study fainter objects far away from us in the Universe, which gives information about early stages of evolution of the Universe. 2. It will give us finer details of not-so-far-away objects like undiscovered planets and other objects in the Solar System and planets around other stars.

EAO (East Asian Observatory) Context: India is in preliminary discussions to be a part of the East Asian Observatories Consortium of eight countries committed to build large telescopes and pool resources. About EAO (East Asian Observatory): Formed by EACOA (East Asian Core Observatories Association) for the purpose of pursuing joint projects in astronomy within the East Asian region.

• The intention of EAO is to build and operate facilities, which will enhance and leverage existing and planned regional facilities. • It will also raise funding and to build an observatory staff, separate from that of the EACOA institutions. • The EAO is chartered as a non-profit Hawaii corporation. • Its first task is to assume the operation of the James Clerk Maxwell Submillimetre Telescope (JCMT) on the summit of Maunakea, Hawai`i. • It consists of China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea as full members and Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia as ‘observers’.

160 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Implications for India: Having India join the group could mean the establishment of new kinds of telescopes — one proposed being in Tibet — that could aid the observation of new black holes and throw light on cosmic phenomena

ACCRETION BURST EVENT What is it? • Astronomers have recently found that the funnelling of matter into a forming star happens at different rates over time, as per the rotating disc of gas and dust theory. • Sometimes the forming star swallows up a huge amount of matter, resulting in a burst of activities in the massive star. • This is called an accretion burst event. It is incredibly rare: only three such events have been observed, out of all the billions of massive stars in the Milky Way. Need for these understandings: Astronomers don't yet fully understand how massive stars in our galaxy are formed. So far, observations have only yielded some pieces of the puzzle. This is because nearly all the known massive stars in our galaxy are located very far away from our solar system. They also form in close proximity to other massive stars, making it difficult to study the environment where they take shape. So, rotating disc theory helps in understanding these events. With this, the astronomers will be able to develop and test theories to explain how high-mass stars gain their mass. Maser Monitoring Organisation (M2O): After the first detection of an accretion burst, in 2016, astronomers from around the world agreed in 2017 to coordinate their efforts to observe more. This led to the formation of the Maser Monitoring Organisation (M2O). The primary goal of M2O is to make the atronomy community aware of the importance of Maser monitoring. It is also to increase the number of sources monitored, the number of transitions monitored at, and increase cadence of observation. What is a Maser? • A maser is the microwave (radio frequency) equivalent of laser. The word stands for "microwave amplification by stimulated emission of radiation".

161 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • Masers are observed using radio telescopes and most of them are observed at centimetre wavelength: they are very compact. • A maser flare can be a sign of an extraordinary event such as the formation of a star.

SPITZER TELESCOPE-NASA Context: Spitzer space telescope of NASA will be retired on January 30, 2020. Spitzer is going to shut down permanently after about 16 years of exploring the cosmos in infrared light. Background: Launched into solar orbit on August 25, 2003, Spitzer was initially scheduled for a minimum 2.5-year primary mission. But the space telescope has lasted far beyond its expected lifetime. What will happen to the Spitzer space telescope after it is retired? The telescope has a very particular orbit, trailing about 158 million miles behind the Earth to keep it away from interfering heat. In about 53 years, Spitzer’s orbit will take it past our planet. But, once the telescope flies by Spaceship Earth, Spitzer will drift off in the opposite direction into the emptiness of space. Key achievements: 1. Spitzer’s discoveries extend from our own planetary backyard, to planets around other stars, to the far reaches of the universe. 2. Spitzer has logged over 106,000 hours of observation time in the past 15 years. It has illuminated some of the oldest galaxies in the universe, revealed a new ring around Saturn, and peered through shrouds of dust to study newborn stars and black holes. 3. The telescope also assisted in the discovery of planets beyond our solar system, including the detection of seven Earth-size planets orbiting the star TRAPPIST-1, among other accomplishments. About Spitzer: NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope was launched in 2003 to study the universe in the infrared.

162 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • It is the last mission of the NASA Great Observatories program, which saw four specialized telescopes (including the Hubble Space Telescope) launched between 1990 and 2003. • The goal of the Great Observatories is to observe the universe in distinct wavelengths of light. How it works? 1. Spitzer focuses on the infrared band, which normally represents heat radiation from objects. 2. Spitzer’s highly sensitive instruments allow scientists to peer into cosmic regions that are hidden from optical telescopes, including dusty stellar nurseries, the centers of galaxies, and newly forming planetary systems. 3. Spitzer’s infrared eyes also allows astronomers see cooler objects in space, like failed stars (brown dwarfs), extrasolar planets, giant molecular clouds, and organic molecules that may hold the secret to life on other planets. VIRTUAL HUMAN’ NEONS Context: The first project of Samsung’s Star Labs, NEONs are being called the world’s first artificial humans. What are they? • NEONs are computationally created virtual humans — the word derives from NEO (new) + humaN. • For now the virtual humans can show emotions when manually controlled by their creators. • But the idea is for NEONs to become intelligent enough to be fully autonomous, showing emotions, learning skills, creating memories, and being intelligent on their own. How do they work? There are two core technologies behind his virtual humans. 1. First, there is the proprietary CORE R3 technology that drives the “reality, real time and responsiveness” behind NEONs. 2. The next stage will be SPECTRA, which will complement CORE R3 with the “spectrum of intelligence, learning, emotions and memory”. How could NEONs be used?

163 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 • NEONs might be the interface for technologies and services. • They will answer your queries at a bank, welcome you at a restaurant, or read out the breaking news on television at an unearthly hour. • This form of virtual assistance would be more effective, for example, while teaching languages, as NEONs will be capable of understanding and sympathising. How are NEONs different from Virtual Assistants? Virtual Assistants now learn from all the data they are plugged into. NEONs will be limited to what they know and learn. Their leaning could potentially be limited to the person they are catering to, and maybe her friends — but not the entire Internet. They will not be an interface for you to request a song, rather they will be a friend to speak to and share experiences with, says Star Labs.

BLOCK CHAIN TECHNOLOGY Context: National Informatics Centre (NIC) has set up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Blockchain Technology in Bengaluru, which will provide Blockchain as a service and allow stakeholders to benefit from shared learning, experiences and resources. Functions: 1. The Centre of Excellence will facilitate various government departments in building proof of concepts for use of Blockchain technology in different dimensions of governance, leading to large scale deployment of some such applications. 2. With National Informatics Centre (NIC) providing a robust and an agile infrastructure, the CoE shall also provide Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) for efficient hosting of Blockchain network, says an official release. What are Blockchains? • Blockchains are a new data structure that is secure, cryptography-based, and distributed across a network. • The technology supports cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, and the transfer of any data or digital asset. • Spearheaded by Bitcoin, blockchains achieve consensus among distributed nodes, allowing the transfer of digital goods without the need for centralized authorisation of transactions. How it operates?

164 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 1. The technology allows transactions to be simultaneously anonymous and secure, peer-to-peer, instant and frictionless. 2. It does this by distributing trust from powerful intermediaries to a large global network, which through mass collaboration, clever code and cryptography, enables a tamper-proof public ledger of every transaction that’s ever happened on the network. 3. A block is the “current” part of a blockchain which records some or all of the recent transactions, and once completed, goes into the blockchain as permanent database. 4. Each time a block gets completed, a new block is generated. Blocks are linked to each other (like a chain) in proper linear, chronological order with every block containing a hash of the previous block. Benefits of blockchain technology: 1. As a public ledger system, blockchain records and validate each and every transaction made, which makes it secure and reliable. 2. All the transactions made are authorized by miners, which makes the transactions immutable and prevent it from the threat of hacking. 3. Blockchain technology discards the need of any third-party or central authority for peer-to-peer transactions. 4. It allows decentralization of the technology.

PARIS CONVENTION FOR PROTECTION OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY. Context: Khadi Village Industries Corporation is eyeing international trademark for ‘khadi’ under the Paris Convention for protection of industrial property. Why? To prevent any product from masquerading as ‘khadi’ nationally or globally. How is it presently protected? The Regulations issued in 2013 by the ministry of micro, small and medium enterprises, empower KVIC to grant ‘Khadi Mark’ registration and take royalties from any producer using the Khadi mark. About Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property: It is a multilateral treaty dealing with the protection of industrial property in the widest sense. Administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

165 Fast-Track EPFO Batch-2021 Article 6 of the Paris Convention of 1883 protects armorial bearings, flags and other State symbols of the States part to the convention, including official signs, and hallmarks indicating control and warranty adopted by them. As of January 2019, the Convention has 177 contracting member countries. . All the best JAI HIND

Class explanation- mind map

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