UPSC Current Affairs – January 6, 2024

Ration Scam Investigation

GS-2-Governance

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• ED and CRPF personnel were attacked by a mob while investigating a PDS corruption scandal involving Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shajahan.
• The investigation focuses on the alleged ration scam where rice and wheat were under-supplied by businessman Bakibur Rahman, with profits made by selling the balance in the open market.
• Former Food and Supplies Minister Jyotipriya Mallick, allegedly involved, was arrested; his portfolio was changed after the scam allegations surfaced.
• The ED’s investigation revealed that flour mill owners also supplied less flour than paid for, with government suppliers knowingly signing off on these discrepancies.
• An 80-20 profit-sharing formula was allegedly devised by Bakibur, implicating mill owners, government officials, and the Minister’s office.
• The scam came to light during the Covid-19 lockdown with public protests and an FIR in Nadia district, highlighting irregularities in PDS grain distribution.
• The state government, led by TMC, has denied the allegations, attributing issues to insufficient central supplies under PMGKAY.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Analyze the role of central agencies in maintaining transparency and accountability in state-level operations, as illustrated by the Enforcement Directorate’s involvement in the West Bengal PDS scam.

• Central agencies act as oversight bodies to ensure adherence to laws and regulations.
• Their involvement can help uncover corruption and malpractices in state-managed schemes.
• Investigations by central agencies can lead to legal actions and reforms in state systems.
• However, such interventions can also lead to political conflicts and allegations of overreach.

2. Discuss the impact of political patronage in the functioning of public distribution systems, using the West Bengal ration scam as a case study.

• Political patronage can lead to manipulation of systems for personal or party gain.
• It can undermine the efficiency and fairness of public distribution systems.
• In the West Bengal case, political connections allegedly facilitated the diversion of food grains.
• This can erode public trust in government institutions and affect the needy adversely.

3. Evaluate the effectiveness of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) in providing food security during the Covid-19 pandemic, considering the challenges highlighted in West Bengal.

• PMGKAY aimed to provide additional food grains to the needy during the pandemic, enhancing food security.
• Implementation challenges, such as those in West Bengal, can hinder the reach and effectiveness of such schemes.
• Discrepancies in distribution can lead to protests and dissatisfaction among beneficiaries.
• Effective monitoring and transparent mechanisms are essential for the success of such welfare schemes.

India Watches Bangladesh Elections

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Bangladesh’s national elections are significant for India due to shared borders and deep ties.
• India supports incumbent Sheikh Hasina for fostering a beneficial relationship and ensuring security by combating anti-India elements.
• Hasina’s leadership has seen economic growth in Bangladesh, now the second-largest economy in South Asia and a major exporter to India.
• Regional cooperation is enhanced under Hasina with Bangladesh playing a key role in BIMSTEC, promoting connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region.
• Concerns about democratic backsliding in Bangladesh under Hasina exist, but she is viewed as a preferable option compared to alternatives.
• Hasina’s engagement with China is noted, but she maintains a balanced approach, respecting India’s security concerns.
• The U.S. has criticized Hasina’s governance, but recent interactions suggest a possible softening of the U.S. stance, aligning more with India’s interests.
• India hopes for a fair and non-violent election process in Bangladesh to maintain regional stability and positive international relations.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. How does the economic rise of Bangladesh impact India’s trade and regional integration strategies?

• Bangladesh’s GDP growth surpasses Pakistan, becoming the second-largest economy in South Asia.
• Significant increase in Indian exports to Bangladesh, making it the fifth largest export destination for India.
• Enhanced connectivity initiatives like overland transit and inland waterways to India’s Northeast.
• Contribution to economic integration in the subcontinent, countering Pakistan’s resistance to regional cooperation.

2. Discuss the strategic importance of maintaining a stable and cooperative relationship between India and Bangladesh in the context of regional security.

• Shared long border requiring effective management to prevent terrorism and smuggling.
• Cooperation from Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina in counter-terrorism efforts, enhancing India’s security.
• Importance of a stable Bangladesh amidst regional instability, especially with the situation in Myanmar.
• Role of Bangladesh as a security partner in the Bay of Bengal and broader regional stability.

3. Evaluate the implications of Sheikh Hasina’s governance on India-Bangladesh relations, considering both democratic concerns and geopolitical realities.

• Hasina’s role in suppressing anti-India militant activities and fostering strong bilateral ties.
• Concerns about democratic backsliding in Bangladesh under her rule and its international perception.
• Hasina’s balanced approach towards China, ensuring it does not adversely affect India-Bangladesh relations.
• Impact of US criticisms of Hasina’s governance on India-US-Bangladesh triangular dynamics.

Global Neoliberal Influence

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Javier Milei, the new Argentinian president, has announced a government programme that includes massive cuts, privatisation, and deregulation, similar to policies seen in the UK.
• Milei’s policies are influenced by Argentinian neoliberal think tanks connected to the Atlas Network, a global body promoting similar economic policies worldwide.
• The Atlas Network, founded by UK citizen Antony Fisher, also influenced UK politicians like Liz Truss, whose policies led to economic turmoil.
• Despite failures, these neoliberal think tanks continue to shape policies without significant media or public scrutiny.
• The policies promoted by these think tanks serve the interests of their funders, including right-wing billionaires and corporations, rather than public demands.
• This network of think tanks effectively manipulates political outcomes globally, turning nominal democracies into plutocracies.
• The influence of these think tanks is also evident in the US, where they have prepared policy mandates for leaders like Donald Trump.
• The article argues that the neoliberal agenda, originally meant to protect against tyranny, has become a tool of oppression.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Analyze the impact of neoliberal policies as advocated by the Atlas Network on global democratic structures. Discuss with reference to specific examples from different countries.

• Definition of neoliberal policies and their core principles.
• Role of the Atlas Network in spreading these policies globally.
• Impact on democratic structures, citing examples from the UK (Liz Truss’s policies), Argentina (Javier Milei’s governance), and the US (influence on Republican policies).
• Discussion on the erosion of public services and increase in corporate power.
• Consequences on social equity and public dissent.

2. Evaluate the ethical implications of media platforms providing unchecked coverage to organizations like the Institute of Economic Affairs. Consider the balance between freedom of speech and responsible journalism.

• Overview of the role and influence of the Institute of Economic Affairs within the UK.
• Analysis of media coverage frequency and its potential impact on public opinion and policy.
• Discussion on ethical journalism and its responsibilities towards balanced reporting.
• Debate on freedom of speech versus the need for media to prevent misinformation.
• Impact of such media practices on democracy and public trust.

3. Discuss the concept of shock doctrine and its application in contemporary political landscapes, with examples from Argentina and Chile.

• Explanation of the shock doctrine theory by Naomi Klein.
• Historical context and application in Chile during Pinochet’s regime.
• Application in Argentina under Javier Milei’s recent policies.
• Analysis of the socio-economic impacts of such policies on the middle and lower classes.
• Comparative analysis to identify patterns and long-term effects on societal structures.

Somaliland Port Controversy

GS-2-International Relations

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Somaliland leased a Red Sea naval port to Ethiopia, sparking anger in Somalia.
• Somalia views Somaliland as part of its territory, but Somaliland operates autonomously.
• The deal includes a 50-year lease and potential support for Somaliland’s quest for independence.
• Somalia recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia, viewing the deal as a threat to its sovereignty.
• Protests erupted in Mogadishu, and Somalia’s government strongly condemned the agreement.
• Ethiopia seeks access to the sea, crucial for its trade and economic survival.
• The deal could strain Ethiopia-Somalia relations but offers political benefits internally for Ethiopia.
• International reactions are mixed, with some backing Somalia and others urging peaceful resolution.
• The situation raises concerns about regional stability and the future of diplomatic efforts in the Horn of Africa.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the implications of Ethiopia’s lease agreement with Somaliland on the geopolitical stability of the Horn of Africa.

• Increased tensions between Somalia and Somaliland, potentially destabilizing the region.
• Potential shift in regional power dynamics, with Ethiopia gaining a strategic advantage.
• Impact on Somalia-Ethiopia relations, possibly affecting cooperation on security and economic fronts.
• Reaction of neighboring countries and international stakeholders concerned about the violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

2. Analyze the potential benefits and risks associated with Ethiopia’s strategic move to access the Red Sea through the Berbera port.

• Enhanced economic opportunities for Ethiopia through increased trade and maritime access.
• Reduction of dependency on Djibouti port, diversifying Ethiopia’s options and potentially lowering logistics costs.
• Risks of regional isolation due to perceived aggression or expansionism by neighboring countries.
• Potential internal political gains for Ethiopian leadership by portraying the deal as a national achievement.

3. Evaluate the role of international organizations and regional bodies in mediating the dispute between Somalia and Somaliland over the port deal.

• Examination of statements and positions taken by entities such as the African Union, Arab League, and United Nations.
• Effectiveness of diplomatic interventions and peacekeeping efforts in de-escalating tensions.
• Challenges faced by these organizations in maintaining neutrality and effectiveness amidst conflicting national interests.
• Potential for these bodies to facilitate dialogue and negotiations, aiming for a peaceful resolution.

Andes Survival Story

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• The Netflix movie ‘Society of the Snow’ is based on a true survival story of a Uruguayan rugby team in the Andes, adapted from a book by Pablo Vierci.
• Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crashed in the Andes on October 13, 1972, carrying the rugby team and associates to Chile.
• Initial crash impact killed 12 people; subsequent days saw additional deaths, reducing survivors to 27.
• Survivors used aircraft fuselage for shelter and resorted to cannibalism after food supplies depleted.
• After hearing their presumed deaths via radio and surviving avalanches, survivors decided to seek help outside.
• On the 61st day, three survivors embarked on a journey to find help, eventually making contact with a local who alerted authorities.
• Rescue operations commenced, and by December 23, all remaining survivors were airlifted to safety.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

Question 1: Analyze the psychological and ethical challenges faced by the survivors of the Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crash. How do such extreme situations test human resilience and moral boundaries?

• Immediate life-threatening environment leading to extreme survival scenarios.
• Psychological stress of isolation and the realization of being presumed dead.
• Ethical dilemma and emotional trauma associated with the decision to resort to cannibalism.
• Resilience shown in the survivors’ ability to organize, ration food, and maintain hope.
• Long-term psychological effects and the role of leadership and hope in survival situations.

Question 2: Discuss the role of leadership and group dynamics in survival situations, using the example of the Andes plane crash survivors.

• Importance of decision-making roles and emergence of natural leaders.
• Group cohesion and the psychological impact of collective suffering and shared goals.
• Strategic planning, such as the use of makeshift shelters and rationing of provisions.
• Impact of leadership on morale and the survival spirit among the group members.
• Lessons on the importance of adaptability and teamwork under duress.

Question 3: Evaluate the impact of international cooperation and local knowledge in rescue operations, as seen in the rescue of the Andes plane crash survivors.

• Role of local shepherd Sergio Catalan in identifying and aiding the survivors.
• Importance of timely communication and coordination between local civilians and authorities.
• Challenges posed by harsh weather conditions and remote locations in conducting rescue operations.
• Significance of local knowledge and terrain familiarity in enhancing the effectiveness of search and rescue efforts.
• Broader implications for international disaster response protocols and cooperation.

PRITHVI Vigyan Scheme

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PRITHVI VIgyan scheme with a budget of Rs 4,797 crore.
• The scheme is designated for the Ministry of Earth Sciences to enhance studies in atmosphere, ocean, and Earth system sciences from 2021 to 2026.
• It integrates five ongoing sub-schemes: ACROSS, O-SMART, PACER, SAGE, and REACHOUT.
• The primary goal is to sustain long-term observations across various Earth domains to monitor and record Earth system changes.
• Another key objective is to develop models for better weather prediction and understanding climate change.
• The scheme aims to explore polar regions and high seas to discover new phenomena and resources.
• It also focuses on developing technologies to utilize oceanic resources for societal benefits.
• The scheme intends to translate Earth system science insights into practical applications for societal, environmental, and economic benefits.
• Overall, PRITHVI VIgyan aims to foster integrated, multi-disciplinary Earth science research and innovative programs across various institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

Question 1: Discuss the significance of the PRITHvi VIgyan scheme in the context of climate change and its potential impact on policy making.

• Understanding of Earth systems: Enhances comprehensive knowledge about atmospheric, oceanic, and terrestrial systems.
• Climate change insights: Facilitates better understanding and prediction of climate patterns, aiding in effective climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
• Policy formulation: Provides data essential for formulating environmental policies and strategies at national and international levels.

Question 2: Evaluate the role of technological advancements in the exploration of oceanic resources keeping in focus on PRITHvi VIgyan scheme.

• Technological development: Focus on developing technologies for deep-sea exploration and resource extraction.
• Sustainable exploitation: Ensures that oceanic resources are harnessed in a sustainable manner, minimizing environmental impact.
• Economic benefits: Potential boost to the economy through the discovery and utilization of new marine resources.

Question 3: How does the PRITHvi VIgyan scheme aim to integrate multidisciplinary research across different institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences?

• Collaborative framework: Promotes cooperation among various scientific disciplines and research institutions.
• Integrated approach: Encourages comprehensive studies that combine atmospheric, oceanic, and terrestrial sciences.
• Innovation and development: Supports the creation of innovative programs and projects that address complex Earth system challenges.

Global Stocktake Critique

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• In 2015, the COP21 established a plan to review global climate progress every five years starting in 2023.
• The Global Stocktake (GST) text was finalized at COP28 in Dubai, December 2023, after extensive negotiations.
• Initial drafts of the GST showed disagreements, leading to no-text options where consensus couldn’t be reached, notably on fossil fuel phaseout.
• India and Saudi Arabia opposed the inclusion of fossil fuel phaseout, while the EU supported it.
• The final GST text, released after multiple revisions and debates, calls for contributions to emission reductions but softens language on fossil fuel phaseout to transitioning away .
• The text includes a first-time mention of fossil fuels in mitigation but omits specific references to oil and gas phaseout, highlighting coal instead.
• There’s a mention of transitional fuels like natural gas, which could allow continued production.
• Adaptation finance needs of developing countries are recognized, but the final text moves related discussions from the Adaptation to the Finance section, aligning with developed countries’ preferences.
• Developed countries resisted including financial responsibilities in multiple sections, contrary to their approach with mitigation as a cross-cutting theme.
• The final text omits specific references to developed countries’ financial obligations for achieving NDCs but acknowledges the need for more concessional climate finance for the Global South.
• The GST highlights the need for equitable fossil fuel transition strategies, considering different responsibilities and capacities of developed and developing countries.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the role and implications of the no-text option used during the negotiations at COP28. How does it affect the consensus-building process in international agreements?

• Definition of no-text option: Mechanism to omit contentious paragraphs if no agreement is reached.
• Impact on consensus: Allows negotiations to proceed by removing sticking points, but may lead to weaker agreements.
• Implications for inclusivity and representation: Potentially sidelines important issues for some parties, affecting the fairness of the agreement.

2. Evaluate the strategic shifts in the positioning of fossil fuels in the Global Stocktake text from COP28, from phaseout to transitioning away  . What does this signify in terms of global climate policy?

• Terminology shift: Analyze the change from phaseout to transitioning away and its less definitive commitment.
• Global policy implications: Reflects ongoing global reliance on fossil fuels and the challenges in achieving a complete phaseout.
• Political and economic influences: Consider the role of major oil-producing countries and economic dependencies on fossil fuels.

3. How does the movement of adaptation finance from the Adaptation section to the Finance section in the Global Stocktake text reflect broader geopolitical dynamics?

• Understanding the sections: Differentiate between the Adaptation and Finance sections and their focuses.
• Geopolitical implications: Developed countries’ push for structural changes reflects their strategic interests in controlling the narrative and resources.
• Impact on developing countries: Discuss how this shift might affect the visibility and prioritization of adaptation needs in developing countries.

Australian Weather Extremes

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Australian weather is known for extremes, including droughts and floods.
• The Bureau of Meteorology declared an El Niño event, typically associated with hot, dry conditions.
• However, Queensland experienced unusual wet conditions contrary to typical El Niño expectations.
• Climate experts attribute the wet conditions to misconceptions about El Niño and other climate drivers.
• El Niño increases the probability of dry conditions but does not guarantee them.
• Warm sea surface temperatures and a positive Southern Annular Mode contributed to increased rainfall and storms.
• El Niño impacts vary across different regions of Australia, not uniformly causing dry conditions everywhere.
• Climate change is not the cause of El Niño but may influence the extremity and frequency of weather events linked to it.
• Research indicates that global warming could intensify extreme rainfall events.
• The forecast for the upcoming months shows varied rainfall probabilities across different parts of Australia.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. How does the El Niño phenomenon influence weather patterns across different regions of Australia, and why is there variability in its impact?

• El Niño typically increases the probability of hotter and drier conditions but varies across regions.
• Factors such as local sea surface temperatures and geographical features influence regional impacts.
• While some areas may experience intense dry spells, others could see less effect or even uncharacteristic wet conditions due to interacting climate drivers.

2. Discuss the role of Southern Annular Mode (SAM) and sea surface temperatures in shaping the recent unusual weather patterns observed in eastern Australia.

• Positive SAM correlates with more intense and frequent rainfall events in eastern Australia, especially during La Niña phases.
• High sea surface temperatures around eastern Australia contribute to increased moisture availability, leading to heavier rainfall and thunderstorm activity.
• The interaction between SAM and warm sea temperatures has been significant in deviating from typical El Niño-induced weather patterns.

3. Evaluate the implications of climate change on the frequency and intensity of El Niño and La Niña events as observed in recent Australian weather anomalies.

• Climate change is suspected to influence the extremity and frequency of El Niño and La Niña events, though clear impacts are still under research.
• Studies suggest a potential increase in extreme weather events, including more intense rainfall and prolonged dry spells.
• The ongoing increase in global temperatures could exacerbate these phenomena, leading to more severe weather conditions during such events.

Warm Winter in Kerala

GS-3-Environment & Disaster Management

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• The northeast monsoon’s exit usually brings cooler weather to Kerala, but this year the state has yet to experience typical cold mornings.
• Weather systems in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, along with El Niño, are causing higher temperatures in Kerala.
• Kerala’s winter is generally mild due to its maritime climate and the Western Ghats blocking cold northern winds.
• Typical winter features like overnight chill and misty mornings are missing this season, with temperatures staying above normal.
• Weather instability from nearby seas is causing isolated rainfall, preventing the usual stable conditions needed for mist formation.
• El Niño’s warming effect is expected to continue influencing warmer days and nights in the region.
• The Positive Indian Ocean Dipole is currently active but weakening, which may also affect the local climate.
• Temperatures might drop after the first two weeks of January, but the overall forecast suggests a warmer January with above-normal temperatures.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the impact of El Niño on the winter weather patterns in Kerala as observed in the early part of January 2024.

• El Niño typically warms the equatorial Pacific and influences global weather patterns.
• In Kerala, El Niño is associated with higher than normal temperatures during winter months.
• The warming effect delays the onset of typical winter conditions, leading to warmer days and nights.

2. Explain the role of geographical features like the Western Ghats in shaping the climate of Kerala during winter.

• The Western Ghats act as a barrier, preventing the cold northerly winds from reaching Kerala.
• This orographic feature contributes to milder winter temperatures in the state compared to northern India.
• The proximity to the sea also moderates the temperature, leading to a maritime climate.

3. Analyze the implications of the weakening Positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) on the weather patterns along the west coast of India, particularly in Kerala.

• The Positive IOD typically counteracts some of the negative effects of El Niño, such as reduced rainfall.
• A weakening Positive IOD may lead to less mitigation against the drying effects of El Niño, potentially altering precipitation patterns and temperatures.
• This could result in less rainfall and higher temperatures during times when relief from heat is typically expected.

AI Cancer Detection

GS-3-Science & Technology

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) addresses specialist shortages and rising cancer cases by using AI.
• TMH has created a ‘Bio-Imaging Bank’ incorporating data from 60,000 patients to develop cancer detection algorithms.
• The Bio-Imaging Bank collects extensive patient data including radiology, pathology images, and clinical outcomes to train AI.
• AI algorithms are trained to perform tasks like detecting lymph node metastases and predicting biomarkers and therapy responses.
• The project is supported by multiple institutions and aims to enhance early cancer detection and treatment strategies.
• AI’s analysis of medical images helps in early detection by identifying tissue changes indicative of cancer.
• AI also assists in predicting tumor behavior, treatment response, and survival, reducing unnecessary treatments.
• Current applications of AI at TMH include reducing radiation in pediatric CT scans and providing immediate diagnostics in ICUs.
• AI is expected to transform cancer treatment, especially in rural areas, by enabling precise and swift diagnostics.
• Despite its benefits, the use of AI in medicine generates debate over the potential replacement of human specialists and faces regulatory challenges.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the potential ethical implications and challenges of integrating AI in cancer diagnosis and treatment as demonstrated by the Tata Memorial Hospital’s use of a Bio-Imaging Bank.

• Privacy and data security concerns related to patient data.
• Potential bias in AI algorithms affecting diagnosis accuracy.
• Dependence on technology could potentially reduce human oversight.
• Regulatory challenges in approving AI tools for clinical use.
• Resistance from medical professionals fearing replacement by AI.

2. Evaluate the role of multi-institutional collaborations in advancing cancer research and treatment, as seen in the partnership between Tata Memorial Hospital and other institutions like IIT-Bombay and AIIMS.

• Pooling of expertise and resources enhances research capabilities.
• Facilitates sharing of diverse data sets, improving AI algorithm training.
• Encourages interdisciplinary approaches, combining technology and medical science.
• Can lead to standardized treatment protocols across institutions.
• Strengthens grant applications and funding opportunities.

3. How does the application of AI in radiology at Tata Memorial Hospital illustrate the potential for AI to transform healthcare delivery in India, particularly in rural areas?

• AI can help overcome the shortage of medical specialists in rural areas.
• Enables early detection of diseases, crucial for areas with limited healthcare access.
• AI tools can assist general practitioners in diagnosing complex conditions.
• Reduces the need for patients to travel for expert consultations.
• Potentially lowers healthcare costs and improves patient outcomes.

India’s Sun Mission Success

GS-3-Science & Technology

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Aditya L1, India’s first mission to the Sun, successfully reached Lagrange Point 1, about 1.5 million km from Earth.
• The spacecraft was launched by ISRO on September 2, 2023, and will observe the Sun for the next five years.
• Lagrange Point 1 provides a stable environment for continuous solar observations, crucial for studying solar phenomena.
• Aditya L1 carries seven scientific instruments to study various aspects of the Sun including its photosphere, chromosphere, and corona.
• The mission aims to enhance understanding of solar dynamics, space weather, and their effects on Earth.
• Understanding the Sun is vital for protecting Earth’s satellites and communication networks from solar electromagnetic effects.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the strategic significance of placing the Aditya L1 mission at Lagrange Point 1 (L1) and its advantages for solar observation.

• Lagrange Point 1 provides a stable point in space where the gravitational forces of the Earth and the Sun balance each other, minimizing fuel use for orbital corrections.
• This position allows for continuous observation of the Sun without the interference of Earth’s shadow, leading to uninterrupted solar data collection.
• Being positioned closer to the Sun than Earth, L1 provides a vantage point that can offer early warnings of solar activity that might affect Earth.

2. Explain the potential impacts of solar observations from Aditya L1 on technological systems and climate science on Earth.

• Continuous monitoring of solar activities like solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) can help in predicting space weather events that can disrupt satellite operations, telecommunications, and power grids on Earth.
• Understanding solar emissions and their interactions with Earth’s atmosphere contributes to climate models, particularly in how solar variability affects Earth’s climate systems.
• Data from Aditya L1 can aid in the study of the Sun’s influence on the Earth’s upper atmosphere, improving our understanding of atmospheric chemistry and dynamics.

3. Evaluate the role of international cooperation in space missions like Aditya L1, considering previous missions to Lagrange points by other space agencies.

• Collaboration can lead to sharing of advanced technologies and research methodologies which enhance the mission’s scientific output.
• Joint missions allow for cost-sharing and risk mitigation, making ambitious projects more feasible and sustainable.
• International partnerships in space exploration foster diplomatic relations and global cooperation in scientific and technological innovation.

Antimicrobial Resistance Crisis

GS-3-Science & Technology

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• Excessive preventive use of antibiotics in medicine can be counterproductive and obscure treatment goals.
• The National Centre for Disease Control’s survey reveals high antibiotic prescription rates in India, with significant misuse for prophylaxis.
• Overuse and misuse of antibiotics lead to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), making pathogens resistant to treatment.
• AMR poses severe risks, complicating infections and making medical procedures riskier, contributing to high mortality rates globally.
• Experts advocate for rational antibiotic use and restrictions on antimicrobials in agriculture to combat AMR.
• There is a crisis in antibiotic research and development, necessitating urgent action to find new drug solutions and improve access.
• Effective regulation and research funding by governments and health agencies are critical to managing and mitigating AMR.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the implications of the findings from the ‘First Multicentric Point Prevalence Survey of Antibiotic Use at 20 NAC-NET Sites India 2021-22’ on public health policy and antibiotic stewardship programs.

• Highlight the high percentage of prophylactic antibiotic prescriptions and its potential to increase antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• Analyze the need for stricter regulations and guidelines on antibiotic prescriptions in healthcare settings.
• Discuss the role of public health education in promoting rational use of antibiotics among healthcare providers and the general public.

2. Evaluate the role of government and international organizations in combating the crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• Examine the impact of AMR on global health and the importance of international collaboration to address the issue.
• Discuss the initiatives by WHO and other international bodies in promoting research and development of new antibiotics.
• Analyze the effectiveness of government policies in regulating and monitoring the use of antibiotics in both human and animal health sectors.

3. How can interdisciplinary research contribute to solving the antibiotic research and development pipeline crisis?

• Discuss the importance of integrating medical research with pharmaceutical sciences to innovate new drug candidates.
• Analyze the role of public-private partnerships in funding and facilitating antibiotic research and development.
• Highlight the potential of using advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and big data in discovering novel antibiotics.

Alien Life Search

GS-3-Science & Technology

Facts for Pre & Mains:

• The search for extraterrestrial life is motivated by the high probability that Earth is not unique in hosting life.
• Scientists have discovered many new planets, enhancing our ability to explore space and increasing the likelihood of finding life.
• The Zoo Hypothesis suggests that advanced alien civilizations might be intentionally avoiding contact with Earth, similar to observing animals in a zoo.
• This hypothesis is linked to the Fermi paradox, which highlights the contradiction between the expected existence of extraterrestrial life and the lack of evidence for it.
• Given the vast number of potentially habitable planets, life elsewhere in the universe seems probable.
• Two main theories explain the absence of contact: the rarity of human-like evolution or the intentional concealment by aliens aware of Earth.
• Challenges to the Zoo Hypothesis include the improbability that all alien civilizations would choose isolation and non-interference, akin to the Prime Directive in Star Trek.

Potential Questions for Mains & Interview:

1. Discuss the implications of the Zoo Hypothesis in the context of modern astrobiological studies and its potential impact on future space exploration policies.

• Understanding of the Zoo Hypothesis and its premise of advanced extraterrestrial civilizations intentionally avoiding contact with Earth.
• Impact on scientific research and resource allocation for space exploration, focusing on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).
• Consideration of ethical and philosophical implications on how humanity views itself within the universe.
• Potential shifts in international space policies and collaboration efforts to address the possibilities raised by the hypothesis.

2. Evaluate the role of technological advancements in the discovery of exoplanets and their significance in the search for extraterrestrial life.

• Overview of key technological advancements such as telescopes and spectrometry that have enabled the discovery of exoplanets.
• Discussion on how these discoveries expand our understanding of the universe and the potential for habitable zones.
• Analysis of how these findings influence the scientific community’s approach to searching for signs of life beyond Earth.
• Future prospects and challenges in technology that could further aid in the search for extraterrestrial life.

3. Analyze the Fermi Paradox in the light of recent discoveries in astrobiology and discuss potential solutions or theories that address this paradox.

• Explanation of the Fermi Paradox and its significance in the context of extraterrestrial life.
• Review of recent astrobiological findings that could provide insights into the paradox, such as the discovery of new exoplanets and organic molecules.
• Discussion of theories like the Rare Earth Hypothesis and the Great Filter that attempt to provide solutions to the Fermi Paradox.
• Assessment of the impact of these theories on our understanding of life’s rarity or abundance in the universe.