Science and Technology: November 2023 UPSC Current Affairs | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

FSSAI Lacks Data on Genetically Modified Organisms

Context

A recent investigation through the Right to Information (RTI) has uncovered that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) lacks data on Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) presence in imported produce over the last five years. This has raised concerns regarding the potential existence of GM varieties in fruits and vegetables available for sale. Additionally, the RTI inquiry has disclosed that the FSSAI lacks information on conducted tests to assess the presence of these varieties.

What is Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)?

• About GMO:
  • A Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) encompasses entities such as animals, plants, or microorganisms that have undergone DNA modifications through genetic engineering methods.
  • Traditionally, specific traits in crops, animals, and pets have been developed over generations through selective breeding. However, advancements in biotechnology now enable direct manipulation of the genetic makeup of microorganisms, plants, and animals.
• Genetic Modification:
  • Genetic modification involves altering an organism's DNA to introduce specific traits or characteristics.
  • Various techniques are employed in genetic modification, each offering unique advantages and applications.
• Usage of GMO Worldwide:
  • Globally, approximately a dozen GMO species are cultivated on a large scale. According to The Royal Society, 28 countries permit large-scale farming of these GMO crops.
  • In India, the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 prohibits the import, manufacture, use, or sale of GM food without FSSAI approval. Currently, India permits the cultivation and import of only one GMO—cotton, a non-food crop.
  • In 2022, India approved the commercial cultivation of GM mustard, which is currently under challenge and pending in the Supreme Court.
• Import of GMO in India:
  • The United States, Brazil, and Argentina lead in terms of land under GMO cultivation and are major exporters of food to India.
  • Argentina and Brazil are the top two sources of degummed soybean oil in India for the year 2022-23.
  • Over the past decade, the import of fresh fruits and vegetables in India has seen a 25% increase, according to the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

What are the Concerns Raised by the RTI Investigation?

• Food Safety Concerns:
  • Uncertainty about GM presence in imported produce raises concerns about the safety and health implications for consumers.
  • If GM produce is present and consumed unknowingly, it raises potential health risks, considering the uncertainty regarding the long-term health impacts of GMOs.
• Regulatory Ambiguity:
  • Lack of clarity and data on GM varieties may lead to ambiguity in regulating and monitoring the import and sale of genetically modified fruits and vegetables.
  • It questions the efficacy of regulatory oversight by FSSAI regarding the importation and sale of GM produce.
• Public Confidence:
  • It might erode public confidence in the oversight and safety measures pertaining to food imports, potentially impacting consumer choices and trust in food safety regulations.

What is FSSAI?

• About:
  • FSSAI is an autonomous statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act).
  • The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India is the administrative Ministry of FSSAI.
  • The Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of FSSAI have already been appointed by Government of India. The Chairperson is in the rank of Secretary to Government of India.
• Headquarters: Delhi.
• Functions of FSSAI:
  • Framing of regulations to lay down the standards and guidelines of food safety.
  • Granting FSSAI food safety license and certification for food businesses.
  • Laying down procedure and guidelines for laboratories in food businesses.
  • To provide suggestions to the government in framing the policies.
  • To collect data regarding contaminants in foods products, identification of emerging risks and introduction of a rapid alert system.
  • Creating an information network across the country about food safety.
  • Promote general awareness about food safety and food standards.

Emergency Alert System

Context

• Nepal experienced a 6.4 magnitude earthquake on November 3, 2023, revealing flaws in emergency alert systems in Delhi and its vicinity.
• Despite the seismic activity, both government and private alert mechanisms failed to reach a substantial number of individuals affected by the palpable tremors.
• Emergency alert systems play a crucial role in issuing warnings about disasters like earthquakes, cyclones, floods, and landslides, providing early notifications to communities at risk.

What are the Emergency Alert Systems in India?

• Google’s Android Earthquake Early Warning System:
  • Utilizes sensors in Android smartphones to detect seismic activity and alert users about potential earthquakes.
  • Collaborated with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), Ministry of Earth Sciences, to launch the feature in India in September 2023.
  • Collects and shares data with seismological agencies, contributing to improved earthquake detection and analysis.
  • Triggers alerts based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) Scale, providing information on the observed effects of earthquakes.
• Cell Broadcast Alert System (CBAS):
  • Employs advanced technology to disseminate crucial disaster management messages to all mobile devices within specific geographical areas.
  • Developed in collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications (DOT), NDMA, and other agencies.
  • Common applications include delivering emergency alerts such as severe weather warnings, public safety messages, evacuation notices, and other critical information.
• Ministry of Earth Science’s National Centre for Seismology (NCS):
  • Monitors and reports seismic activity in India and its neighboring regions.
  • Operates a network of seismological observatories across the country.
  • Provides real-time earthquake and tsunami data and information.
  • Maintains the BhooKamp website and mobile app, offering earthquake alerts and updates to the public.

What are the Gaps and Challenges in the Emergency Alert Systems?

• Lack of Coordination and Integration:
  • India lacks a single, standardized emergency alert system, resulting in inconsistent and unreliable information for both the public and authorities.
  • Multiple agencies and platforms operate independently, causing confusion, duplication, and delays in alert generation and dissemination.
  • During recent tremors around Delhi, the NCS website and app crashed, facing a sudden surge in traffic when real-time information on the tremors was crucial.
  • This incident highlights significant coordination challenges in managing emergency situations.
• Lack of Accuracy and Timeliness:
  • The emergency alert systems in India are not able to provide accurate and timely information on the location, magnitude, intensity, and impact of the disasters.
  • This is due to the limitations in the data collection, analysis, and transmission.
• Lack of Awareness and Preparedness:
  • The emergency alert systems in India are not able to reach and inform the masses effectively, due to the lack of awareness and preparedness among the public and the authorities.
  • Many people do not know how to access, interpret, and respond to the alerts, and often ignore or dismiss them as false alarms.
  • There is also a lack of public education and awareness campaigns on the disaster risks and mitigation measures and the response mechanisms.

Way Forward

• Develop a unified emergency alert system incorporating multiple channels like SMS, voice calls, social media, and traditional mediums.
• Establish seamless coordination and integration with key agencies like MoES, DoT, NDMA, IMD, and NCS.
• Leverage advanced technologies such as satellites, and Artificial Intelligence to enhance data collection, analysis, and transmission.
• Strengthen the infrastructure by expanding seismological observatories, deploying additional sensors, and upgrading computing capabilities.
• Aim for near-instantaneous alert issuance, providing granular details on disaster location, magnitude, and impact.
• Inform and engage the public on disaster risks, mitigation measures, and the functionality of emergency alert systems.
• Conduct frequent drills involving stakeholders and communities to test and refine alert systems and response mechanisms.

Sixth Assembly of International Solar Alliance

Context

The Sixth Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) was hosted at Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi.

Sixth Assembly of International Solar Alliance – Key Highlights

• Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Increase:
  • The 6th Assembly of the International Solar Alliance has resolved to raise Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for projects from 10% to 35%.
  • VGF is designed to support economically justified infrastructure projects that lack complete financial viability.
• India's Capital Contribution to Global Solar Facility:
  • India is contemplating a $25 million investment as a capital contribution to the Global Solar Facility.
• International Solar Alliance's Purpose:
  • The International Solar Alliance addresses the global need for sustainable energy, as approximately 80% of the world's population, a staggering 6 billion people, resides in nations heavily reliant on fossil fuel imports.

What is the International Solar Alliance (ISA)?

• Establishment of the International Solar Alliance (ISA): Formed following the Paris Declaration at the UN Climate Change Conference on November 30, 2015.
• Secretariat Location: The Secretariat of the International Solar Alliance is situated in Gurugram, Haryana.
• Objective of ISA: Aims to create a coalition of solar resource-rich countries to collaboratively address identified gaps in their energy requirements through a unified approach.
• Membership Criteria: Initially proposed as a multi-country partnership organization with membership from countries within the 'sunshine belt' lying fully or partially between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
• Expansion of Membership: The membership scope has subsequently broadened to include various European countries and the United States.
• Governance Structure: The Assembly of the International Solar Alliance is the apex decision-making body which comprises representatives from each Member Nation.

• Target: The International Solar Alliance has set a target of 1 TW of solar energy by 2030, which would require $1 trillion to achieve.
• Observer Status: The United Nations General Assembly granted observer status to the ISA on 9 December 2021. 

• Focus Areas of International Solar Alliance:
  • Promoting solar technologies
  • New business models and investment in the solar sector
  • Formulate projects and programs to promote solar applications
  • Develop innovative financial mechanisms to reduce cost of capital build
  • Common knowledge e-Portal to facilitate capacity building for promotion and absorption of solar technologies.

What are the initiatives of the International Solar Alliance?

• One Sun, One World & One Grid: It aims to connect different regional grids through a common grid that will be used to transfer renewable energy power, especially solar energy. 
  • The idea for the One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative was put forth by India, at the First Assembly of the International Solar Alliance in October 2018.
• ‘Towards 1000’ policy’:  To mobilize 1000 billion USD by 2030 to install 1000 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy capacity to provide energy access for 1000 million people.

• Common Risk Mitigation Mechanism (CRMM):
  • Aiming to function as an insurance pool for financiers.
  • The significance lies in the potential to attract up to USD15 billion in investments with a USD1-billion guarantee, facilitating the establishment of 20 GW of solar PV capacity in over 20 countries.
• Sustainable Renewables Risk Mitigation Initiative (SRMI):
  • Seeks to harness private investments to assist governments in developing, financing, and implementing sustainable solar programs and projects.
  • Affordable Finance at Scale and Scaling Solar Applications for Agricultural Use (SSAU) Programs:
  • Launched jointly by India and France at a Ministerial side event on the International Solar Alliance at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in 2016.
• Scaling Solar Mini-Grids Programme:
  • Aims to meet the energy needs of International Solar Alliance member nations in specific regions lacking a reliable grid or with no grid access.
• ISA’s Solar Facility:
  • Focused on catalyzing solar investments in underserved segments and geographies of Africa.
  • Encompassing various solar technologies like off-grid solar, rooftop solar, productive use solar, and utility-scale solar through a country-specific intervention approach.
• Solar Insurance Fund:
  • Part of the Solar Facility, designed to expedite solar project development in Africa by offsetting insurance premium-related expenses during construction and pre-revenue stages.
• Solar Payment Guarantee Fund:
  • A component of the Solar Facility aimed at supporting projects in case of default and mitigating the risk of early closures or bankruptcy of solar energy projects.

What challenges does the International Solar Alliance face?

• India’s Limited Material Capability:
  • Despite being a founder of the International Solar Alliance, India faces a significant limitation due to a lack of substantial material capability in the solar sector, making it less influential among other players.
  • Notably, India heavily depends on Chinese solar equipment, with approximately 70% of its solar capacity relying on equipment manufactured in China.
• Diverse Challenges and Perspectives Among ISA Member States:
  • Many member states, primarily developing countries, have varying and immediate priorities, sometimes hindering clear articulation of their solar needs.
  • Some Southeast Asian member states remain unconvinced about solar power, while others await more successes before fully embracing it.
• Limited Global Solar Capacity:
  • Initially designed for 121 countries in the sun-rich area between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, the International Solar Alliance caters to nations with nearly three-quarters of the world's population but only 23% of global solar capacity.
• Challenges in Solar Markets of Smaller Countries:
  • Solar markets in smaller countries face fragmentation that makes it challenging to attract investors.
  • Governments often lack the expertise to discern among various technologies and policies to find the best fit for their specific needs.
• Land Acquisition Challenges:
  • In developing countries, concerns over land and water usage and ecological considerations have hindered solar power production.
  • For instance, in India, out of 57 commissioned solar parks, only about 10 have become operational due to land acquisition issues.
• Differentiating Itself from IRENA:
  • Amidst a crowded renewables ecosystem with multiple inter-governmental and global actors, the International Solar Alliance needs to distinguish itself from entities like the International Renewable Agency (IRENA).
  • The strategy for differentiation from IRENA remains unclear at this point.

India’s Role in International Solar Alliance

• Green Hydrogen Innovation Centre:
  • Established by the International Solar Alliance in July 2023 during India's G20 Presidency.
• Solarisation of Healthcare Centers in Africa:
  • In August 2023, India, through the International Solar Alliance, inaugurated nine projects for solarizing healthcare centers and primary schools in Uganda, Comoros, and Mali.
• Capacity Building:
  • The Indian government supports the International Solar Alliance by providing 21-day solar energy training under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Scheme.
  • For instance, during 2018–2019, 133 participants from 25 countries received training at the National Institute of Solar Energy in Gurugram, Haryana, India, under the ITEC scheme.
• Funding:
  • The Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank) has committed to funding solar initiatives, totaling USD 1.4 billion, aimed at scaling up affordable finance.
• Supporting Infrastructure:
  • As a founding member, the Indian government contributed $27 million to the International Solar Alliance for infrastructure development and recurring expenditure over a 5-year period from 2016-17 to 2020-21.
• Research & Development:
  • India, as part of its contribution, will offer 500 training slots for member countries of the International Solar Alliance.
  • Additionally, India will launch a solar tech mission to lead in research and development efforts in solar technology.

Way Forward

• Reducing Dependence on China:
  • Given that nearly 90% of solar equipment is imported from China, India is actively working to boost domestic manufacturing capacity through the Make-in-India program and the ambitious Production-linked Incentives (PLI) scheme.
• Private-Public Partnerships:
  • A proactive step involves engaging private industry players in India's solar sector to explore partnerships with countries within the International Solar Alliance, fostering essential international private-public collaborations.
• Fostering Leadership, Innovation, and International Collaboration in Solar Energy:
  • Encouraging high-performing states in India to take leadership roles in forming partnerships with renewable energy counterparts in alliance countries.
  • Facilitating collaboration with international experts in solar energy to share and understand case studies.
• Promoting Solar Investment Summits:
  • Organizing renewable energy or solar-specific investment summits and shows in all countries that have signed the International Solar Alliance agreement.
  • These events would be periodically hosted and anchored by the International Solar Alliance.
• Recognizing Solar Ambassadors: Inspiring Global Solar Advocacy:
  • Identifying and honoring credible and emerging solar ambassadors from countries within the International Solar Alliance framework agreement.
  • Annual recognition or acknowledgment during the general assembly of the ISA will highlight positive stories driving the global solar movement, inspiring others to join the initiative.

Genetically Engineered Insects

Context

India has set a target to double the Bioeconomy's contribution to the GDP, aiming to raise it from 2.6% to 5% by 2030, as outlined in the 'Bioeconomy Report 2022' by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). Despite a temporary surge in biotechnology funding during the Covid-19 period, the allocation remains stagnant at only 0.0001% of the GDP. Funding levels have not yet returned to pre-pandemic standards. The 'Guidelines for Genetically Engineered (GE) Insects,' issued by the DBT in April 2023, offer procedural roadmaps for those interested in creating GE insects but face certain issues.

What are the Key Highlights of the Bioeconomy Report 2022?

• India's bioeconomy is on a robust growth trajectory, projected to reach USD 150 billion by 2025 and surpass USD 300 billion by 2030. 
• The sector experienced a remarkable 14.1% increase, reaching USD 80 billion in 2021 compared to USD 70.2 billion in 2020. 
• Daily, the bioeconomy generated USD 219 million, reflecting its significant economic impact.
• In 2021, the sector witnessed the establishment of three biotech startups daily, totaling 1,128 for the year. 
• With over USD 1 billion invested in research and development, the industry is demonstrating a commitment to innovation and advancement. 
• Amidst the global pandemic, India administered 4 million Covid-19 vaccine doses and conducted 3 million tests daily, showcasing its resilience and capacity.
• Over the past decade, the number of biotech startups has soared from 50 to over 5,300, with expectations of doubling by 2025. 
• The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) has played a pivotal role by establishing 74 bio-incubation centers across 21 states/UTs, fostering a supportive environment for bio-entrepreneurs. 
• Notably, India boasts the second-highest number of USFDA (United States Food and Drug Administration)-approved manufacturing plants outside the US, underscoring its global standing in the biotech industry.

What are Genetically Engineered (GE) Insects?

• About:
  • GE insects are organisms whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering techniques to introduce specific desired traits or characteristics. 
  • This involves manipulating the insect's DNA in a way that is not naturally occurring, often with the aim of conferring certain benefits or addressing specific issues.
• Application:
  • The development and release of GE insects offers applications in various fields such as,
  • Vector management in human and livestock health
  • Management of major crop insect pests
  • Maintenance and improvement of human health and the environment through a reduction in the use of chemicals
  • Production of proteins for healthcare purposes
  • Genetic improvement of beneficial insects like predators, parasitoids, pollinators (e.g. honey bee) or productive insects (e.g. silkworm, lac insect).
• Issues with Genetically Engineered (GE) Insects Guidelines:
  • The guidelines lack specificity on the purposes for which GE insects may be approved in India. While they emphasize applications in health, agriculture, and environment, there is a misalignment with the broader commitment to contributing to the bioeconomy.
  • Uncertainty for Researchers: The guidelines are limited to research and don't address confined trials or deployment. Lack of clarity on government approval for deployment raises concerns about community exposure without individual choice.
  • Uncertainty of Ambit: Ambiguity surrounds the definition of 'beneficial' in the context of GE insects, hindering funders and scientists from investing. Similar ambiguities exist in other gene-editing guidelines, affecting progress.

What are the Challenges Related to Genetically Engineered (GE) Insects?

• Ecological Impact: 
  • One major concern is the potential ecological impact of releasing genetically modified insects into the environment. There is a risk that these insects could disrupt ecosystems by affecting non-target species or by altering the balance of existing populations.
• Unintended Consequences: 
  • Genetic engineering is a complex process, and unintended consequences can arise. Changes in the targeted genes might have unexpected effects on the insect's behavior, lifespan, or interactions with other organisms.
  • There is the risk of the modified genes spreading beyond the intended population. If the modified insects can breed with wild populations, the engineered genes may enter the wild gene pool, leading to unintended consequences.
• Ethical Concerns: 
  • Some people are concerned about the morality of altering the genetics of living organisms, particularly when it involves their release into the environment.
• Regulatory Challenges: 
  • Developing regulatory frameworks for genetically engineered insects can be challenging. Determining the appropriate level of testing, monitoring, and oversight is crucial to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
• Long-Term Stability: 
  • Ensuring the stability of the engineered traits over generations is crucial. Genetic modifications must remain effective and not degrade or become subject to natural selection pressures that could compromise their intended purpose.
• Costs and Scalability: 
  • Developing and implementing genetically engineered insect technologies can be expensive. Ensuring cost-effectiveness and scalability for large-scale applications, such as disease vector control, is an ongoing challenge.

Way Forward

• Comprehensive and clear policies are crucial for achieving the ambitious goals set for the bioeconomy, and addressing these issues is vital for the sector's growth and contribution to the national economy.
• Addressing the challenges related to GM Insects requires a multidisciplinary approach involving scientists, policymakers, ethicists, and the public to ensure that the benefits of genetically engineered insects are realized while minimizing potential risks. 
• Ongoing research and open dialogue are essential to navigating these complexities responsibly.

Plant-to-Plant Warning Signals

Context

Recently, scientists have unveiled pivotal insights into how plants perceive and respond to danger signals from neighboring plants.

• This discovery offers potential avenues for leveraging plant communication to enhance agricultural pest control without resorting to pesticides.

How do Plants Warn Each Other of Danger?

• Plant Communication and Coordination: Plants are not passive organisms that merely react to their environment. They can communicate with each other and coordinate their responses to various threats.
• They possess the ability to intercept damage happening to other nearby plants.
• By mounting a defense response, plants can make themselves less palatable or even indigestible to the insect attackers.
• Green Leaf Volatiles as Signaling Agents: One of the ways that plants communicate is by releasing and sensing airborne chemicals called Green leaf volatiles (GLVs).
• GLVs, emitted by plants when injured, create the pleasant smell of fresh cut grass for humans. However, to neighboring plants, this scent functions as a warning signal, indicating potential danger.
• It is mediated by calcium, a common mediator of chemical and electrical signals found throughout biology.
• When insects nibble on plant leaves, calcium ions flood the cells, prompting them to emit a glow.
• Response of Mutant Mustard Plant to GLVs: Scientists recently experimented mutant mustard plant, designed to check if it could also react to GLVs.
• When exposed to air laden with GLVs, the plant exhibited a glowing response under the microscope, signifying its ability to sense volatile components released by damaged plants.

How Plant Communication Can be Utilized for Sustainable Agriculture?

• Reduced Chemical Usage: Leveraging plant defense mechanisms may reduce the need for chemical interventions. This could lead to a decrease in pesticide application, minimizing environmental pollution and promoting healthier ecosystems.
• Enhanced Crop Resilience: It can bolster crop resilience against stressors.
• By implementing strategies that encourage communication between plants, such as companion planting or intercropping, farmers may improve overall crop health and resilience.
• Genetic Engineering: It can guide genetic engineering efforts. By enhancing plants' natural defense mechanisms through genetic modification, scientists could develop crops that are more resistant to pests and diseases, potentially reducing reliance on external interventions.

Kavach System

Context

The Indian Railways has recently made a provision of Rs 272.30 crore in Financial Year 2022-23 for the implementation of KAVACH.

What is Kavach?

• Indian Railways has indigenously developed an automatic train protection system rechristened as ‘Kavach’ (Train Collision Avoidance System), to prevent accidents due to human error resulting in Signal Passing at danger and over-speeding.
• It is a set of electronic devices and Radio Frequency Identification devices installed in locomotives, in the signalling system as well the tracks, that talk to each other using ultra high radio frequencies to control the brakes of trains and also alert drivers, all based on the logic programmed into them.
• One of its features is that by continuously refreshing the movement information of a train, it is able to send out triggers when a loco pilot jumps signal, called Signal Passed at Danger (SPAD), a grave offence in railway operations with respect to safety, and the key to accidents like collision.
• The devices also continuously relay the signals ahead to the locomotive, making it useful for loco pilots in low visibility, especially during dense fog.
• Other benefits of ‘Kavach’ include controlling speed of trains by automatic application of brakes on approach of turnouts, repeating of signal aspects in cab, which is useful for higher speeds & foggy weathers, and auto whistling at level crossing gates.

Radiative Cooling Paint

Context

Scientists from the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in Bengaluru, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, have unveiled a groundbreaking paint incorporating radiative cooling. Amidst the rising global temperatures and the urgent demand for sustainable cooling alternatives, this innovative, affordable, and environmentally friendly radiative cooling technology emerges as a viable solution.

What is Radiative Cooling Technology?

• About:
  • Radiative cooling technology is a method designed to dissipate heat from an object by emitting thermal radiation into the atmosphere, allowing the object to become cooler.
  • It leads to creation of cool surfaces by emitting thermal radiation directly into the extremely cold universe (around 3 Kelvin), using the atmospheric transmission window (8 - 13 µm).
  • Notably, this process occurs without any reliance on electricity.

• Need:
  • Increased global warming and urban heat island effects have accentuated the necessity for effective cooling technologies.
  • Conventional active cooling devices like air-conditioners, fans, and refrigerators demand substantial electrical energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and elevated surface temperatures.
  • Radiative cooling technology addresses these challenges by emitting thermal radiation without electricity consumption, through the atmospheric transmission window.
• Radiative Cooling Paint:
  • It is derived from a novel magnesium oxide (MgO)-polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer nanocomposite prepared from materials that are earth abundant, cheap, non-toxic and non-harmful.
  • It showcases remarkable cooling capabilities with high solar reflectivity and infrared thermal emissivity.
  • The MgO-PVDF with dielectric nanoparticles resulted in high solar reflectance (96.3%) and exceptional thermal emission (98.5%).
  • Tailored to counter escalating heat impact on buildings, this paint minimizes electricity usage and provides crucial cooling during sweltering summer days.
  • With outstanding optical features, it lowers surface temperatures by about 10°C in strong sunlight, outperforming standard white paints.
  • Its water-resistant, hydrophobic nature guarantees effortless application on diverse surfaces, ensuring consistent coverage and strong adhesion.

Deepfakes

A fact-checking website recently asserted that a widely circulated video featuring an actor entering an elevator was, in fact, a deepfake. This video ignited considerable discussion, prompting other actors to advocate for legal measures to regulate deepfake content. In response, the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology (IT) mentioned the potential application of regulations within the IT Act, 2000, to address the proliferation of such deceptive videos.
However, a comprehensive approach to regulating deepfakes should concentrate on the intricate relationship between platform governance and Artificial Intelligence (AI) regulation. It should also explore strategies to incorporate safeguards for emerging technologies more broadly.

What is Deepfake?

• Deepfake is a term that refers to synthetic media that have been digitally manipulated to replace one person’s likeness convincingly with that of another.
• Deepfakes are created using powerful techniques from machine learning and AI, such as deep learning and Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs).
• Deepfake technology can be used for various purposes, such as entertainment, education, art, and activism.
• However, it can also pose serious ethical and social challenges, such as creating fake news, spreading misinformation, violating privacy, and harming reputation.
• It may be used to generate fake videos, it can also be used to impersonate friends or loved ones to trick individuals into sending money to scammers.

What are the Uses of Deepfake Technology?

• Film Dubbing: Deepfake technology can be used to create realistic lip-syncing for actors who speak different languages, making the film more accessible and immersive for global audiences.
  • For example, a video was created to launch a petition to end malaria, where celebrities like David Beckham, Hugh Jackman, and Bill Gates spoke in different languages using deepfake technology.
• Education: Deepfake technology can help teachers deliver engaging lessons by bringing historical figures to life in the classroom, or creating interactive simulations of different scenarios.
  • For example, a deepfake video of Abraham Lincoln giving his Gettysburg Address could be used to teach students about the American Civil War.
• Art: Deepfake technology can be used as a creative tool for artists to express themselves, experiment with different styles, or collaborate with other artists.
  • For example, a deepfake video of Salvador Dali was created to promote his museum in Florida, where he interacted with visitors and commented on his artworks.
• Autonomy and Expression: Deepfake technology can empower people to control their own digital identity, protect their privacy, or express their identity in different ways.
  • For example, a deepfake app called Reface allows users to swap their faces with celebrities or characters in videos or gifs, for fun or personalization.
• Amplification of the Message and its Reach: Deepfake technology can help amplify the voice and impact of people who have important messages to share, especially those who face discrimination, censorship, or violence.
  • For example, a deepfake video of a journalist who was killed by the Saudi government was created to deliver his final message and call for justice.
• Digital Reconstruction and Public Safety: Deepfake technology can help reconstruct missing or damaged digital data, such as restoring old photos or videos, or enhancing low-quality footage.
  • It can also help improve public safety by creating realistic training materials for emergency responders, law enforcement, or military personnel.
  • For example, a deepfake video of a school shooting was created to train teachers on how to react in such a situation.
• Innovation: Deepfake technology can spur innovation in various fields and industries, such as entertainment, gaming, or marketing. It can enable new forms of storytelling, interaction, diagnosis, or persuasion.
  • For example, a deepfake video of Mark Zuckerberg was created to demonstrate the potential of synthetic media and its implications for society.

What are the Challenges of Deepfake Technology?

• Spreading False Information:
  • Deepfakes can purposefully spread misinformation, causing confusion on important issues.
  • Examples include using deepfake videos of politicians or celebrities to influence public opinion or sway elections.
• Harassment and Intimidation:
  • Deepfakes can be designed for harassment, intimidation, and undermining individuals.
  • For instance, deepfake technology can fuel unethical actions like creating revenge porn, disproportionately harming women and violating privacy and consent.
• Blackmail and Ransom Materials:
  • Deepfakes can be employed to create materials for blackmail or ransom, such as fake videos showing someone committing a crime or being in danger.
  • A real-world example involves a deepfake video of a politician used to demand money in exchange for not releasing it publicly.
• Fabricating Evidence:
  • Deepfakes can be used to fabricate evidence, defrauding the public or harming state security.
  • Examples include using deepfake audio or video to impersonate someone, making false claims, or manipulating legal proceedings.
• Reputation Tarnishing:
  • Deepfakes can create nonexistent images of a person, generating videos or audio files to tarnish their reputation.
  • For instance, deepfake media may damage the credibility of individuals or organizations, leading to reputational or financial losses.
• Financial Frauds:
  • Deepfake technology can impersonate executives, employees, or customers, manipulating them into revealing sensitive information, transferring money, or making false decisions.
  • An example is a deepfake audio of a CEO used to trick an employee into wiring USD 243,000 to a fraudulent account.

What Should be done to Address the Menace of Deepfakes?

• Life Cycle of Deepfakes:
  • Creation, dissemination, and detection constitute the three stages of the deepfake life cycle.
  • AI regulation is crucial to curb the illicit creation of deepfakes.
• Regulatory Approaches in China:
  • China mandates consent from individuals featured in deepfake videos.
  • Providers must verify user identities and offer recourse options.
• Canadian Strategy Against Deepfakes:
  • Canada emphasizes mass awareness campaigns.
  • Potential legislation to criminalize malicious deepfake creation and distribution.
• Watermarks for AI-Generated Videos:
  • Essential for effective detection and attribution of AI-generated content.
  • Visible watermarks deter unauthorized use and provide evidence for copyright enforcement.
• Deterrence Measures for Inappropriate Content:
  • Online platforms should educate users on content policies.
  • Implement measures to discourage the upload of inappropriate content.
• Advancements in Deepfake Detection:
  • Utilize sophisticated algorithms and innovative methods.
  • Identify deepfakes based on context, metadata, or other factors.
• Digital Governance and Legislation:
  • Establish clear laws prohibiting malicious deepfake use.
  • Provide remedies and sanctions for victims and perpetrators.
• Media Literacy and Awareness:
  • Educate the public and media about deepfake existence and impact.
  • Equip them with skills to verify and report suspicious content.
• Ethical Use of Deepfake Technology:
  • Establish codes of conduct and standards for creators and users.
  • Encourage positive and responsible applications of deepfake technology.