Science & Technology (Part 2): August 2025 Current Affairs | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

GS3/Science and Technology

Prophylaxis Therapy for Haemophilia

Why in News?

The global evolution of haemophilia care has led to a significant shift from reactive treatment methods to preventive approaches, making Prophylaxis Therapy a central focus in modern clinical practices.

Key Takeaways

• Haemophilia is a rare genetic bleeding disorder primarily caused by the deficiency of clotting factors, especially Factor VIII (Haemophilia A).
• Prophylaxis Therapy consists of regular infusion of clotting factors to prevent bleeding episodes.
• In developed countries, approximately 90% of haemophilia patients are on prophylaxis, while India is still progressing in this area.

Additional Details

• About Haemophilia:
  • It leads to prolonged bleeding from minor injuries and has the potential to cause internal bleeding in joints, muscles, or the brain.
  • Key Symptoms: Excessive bleeding, joint swelling, and risks of disability or brain hemorrhage.
  • Prevalence: Around 1 to 1.5 lakh cases in India, with only about 29,000 diagnosed, highlighting significant underdiagnosis due to low awareness and socioeconomic challenges.
• Impact of Untreated Haemophilia: Each untreated bleeding episode may shorten lifespan by approximately 16 days, resulting in pain, disability, and loss of educational and employment opportunities.
• Prophylaxis Benefits:
  • Prevents recurrent bleeding, thus avoiding deformities and long-term disability.
  • Enhances quality of life by reducing pain and enabling normal schooling and social activities.
  • Reduces healthcare costs by minimizing emergency visits and hospital stays.
• Current Status in India: On-demand treatment remains common; however, some states are beginning to offer prophylaxis for children under 10 years of age.

In summary, the transition to prophylaxis therapy represents a significant advancement in the management of haemophilia, promising improved health outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.

[UPSC 2021]

In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements:

• 1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg.
• 2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from the mother and not from the father.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize

Why in News?

Indian mathematician Dr. Rajula Srivastava has been awarded the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize for her innovative research in harmonic analysis and number theory.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Rajula Srivastava's affiliation includes the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, University of Bonn, and Max Planck Institute of Mathematics, Germany.
• The prize recognizes early-career women mathematicians for their significant contributions to the field.

About the Indian Laureate: Dr. Rajula Srivastava

• Field of Work: Dr. Srivastava focuses on simplifying complex mathematical functions using advanced mathematical tools.
• Her research involves exploring how certain numbers can approximate specific points on curved shapes in higher dimensions.

About the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize

• Purpose: This award aims to honor and encourage early-career women mathematicians (within two years of PhD completion) for their exceptional research contributions.
• Named After: The prize is named in honor of Maryam Mirzakhani, the first woman and first Iranian to receive the Fields Medal, renowned for her work on geometry and Riemann surfaces.
• Established: The prize was initiated in November 2019 by the Breakthrough Prize Foundation.
• Prize Amount: $50,000, which may be shared among multiple recipients in a given year.
• Eligibility: Women mathematicians who have recently completed their PhD (within 2 years) and demonstrated exceptional promise and innovation in mathematical research.

Other Important Prizes in Mathematics

• Fields Medal: Awarded every four years to mathematicians under 40, it is regarded as the most prestigious global mathematics award, established in 1936.
• Abel Prize: Instituted by the King of Norway in 2001, this annual award recognizes lifetime achievements in mathematics and is often considered the closest equivalent to the Nobel Prize in this field.
• Wolf Prize in Mathematics: Awarded annually since 1978 by the Wolf Foundation in Israel, it honors exceptional accomplishments across all branches of mathematics and is ranked just below the Fields and Abel Prizes in prestige.

In popular culture, a recent film titled "The Man Who Knew Infinity" is based on the biography of the renowned mathematician S. Ramanujan.

GS3/Science and Technology

Yashoda AI Literacy Program

Why in News?

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched the “Yashoda AI” program, aimed at equipping women with essential skills in cybersecurity, digital privacy, and safe online practices. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote digital inclusion across India.

Key Takeaways

• The program was introduced in May 2025 as an Artificial Intelligence Literacy Program specifically for women.
• It is a joint initiative by Future Shift Labs.
• To date, over 2,500 women have been trained through this program.

Additional Details

• Focus Areas: The training covers AI-driven crimes, digital safety, and practical risk mitigation strategies.
• Beneficiaries: Participants include members of Self-Help Groups, local representatives (such as Sarpanchs and Mayors), and frontline workers like Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA workers).

This initiative not only empowers women with critical digital skills but also aims to foster a safer online environment for all. The NCW continues to play a vital role in advocating for women's rights and their participation in digital spaces.

Back2Basics: National Commission for Women

Status:

The National Commission for Women (NCW) is a statutory body established in 1992 under the NCW Act of 1990.

Composition and Structure

• Composition: The commission consists of a Chairperson, 5 members, and a Member-Secretary, all appointed by the Central Government.
• Term: All members serve a term of 3 years.

Powers

• The NCW holds civil court powers during inquiries, which include:
• Summoning individuals and enforcing attendance.
• Examining witnesses under oath.
• Demanding records and receiving affidavits.
• Issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents.

Vidyanjali Yojana: Purpose

What is the purpose of Vidyanjali Yojana?

• 1. To enable renowned foreign campuses to operate in India.
• 2. To enhance the quality of education in government schools by collaborating with the private sector and community.
• 3. To encourage voluntary monetary donations from private individuals and organizations to improve infrastructure in primary and secondary schools.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• Options: (a) 2 only
• (b) 3 only
• (c) 1 and 2 only
• (d) 2 and 3 only

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Biologics & Biosimilars: The Next Frontier in Affordable Medicines

Source: Science Direct

Why in News?

The emergence of biologics and biosimilars is revolutionizing modern medicine, moving beyond traditional small molecule drugs. These complex therapies offer targeted treatments that can significantly impact healthcare.

Key Takeaways

• Biologics are large, complex drugs derived from living organisms.
• Biosimilars are near-identical copies of biologics, available after the original patent expires.
• Regulatory reforms are essential for improving access to affordable medicines in India.

Additional Details

• Small Molecule Drugs:These are low molecular weight compounds that are chemically synthesized. They are characterized by:
  • Fixed structures that are chemically stable.
  • Ease of replication and patent protection.
  • High costs during patent protection, followed by significantly reduced prices post-expiry (e.g., Sovaldi dropped from $84,000 to $1,000).
• Biologics:These are large, intricate drugs created from living cells or organisms. Examples include:
  • Insulin (~5,800 daltons)
  • Remicade (~150,000 daltons)
  Slight structural variations are possible, and they are primarily used for treating conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, and for hormone therapy.
• Biosimilars: These are close replicas of biologics but are not identical due to their complex production processes. They provide lower-cost alternatives to biologics after patent expiration.
• Regulation and Reform:
  • Current regulations require costly trials for biosimilars, including animal and clinical trials, unlike generic drugs.
  • Countries like the UK and USA are reducing the burden of animal trials, promoting innovations like organ-on-chip and human models.
  • India still adheres to older regulatory norms, although waivers are under review, and clinical trials remain mandatory.
• Significance for India:
  • Access to generic small molecules has transformed Indian healthcare.
  • Affordable biosimilars could similarly enhance treatment for chronic and rare diseases.
  • Regulatory reform is critical to lowering costs, speeding up access, and expanding healthcare coverage.

In summary, as biologics and biosimilars continue to evolve, they present both challenges and opportunities for healthcare systems, particularly in India, where regulatory changes could pave the way for more affordable treatment options.

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ICRISAT's AI-based Agromet Advisory Service

Source: Business Line

Why in News?

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has launched an innovative AI-based Agromet Advisory Service aimed at enhancing agricultural practices and supporting farmers in adapting to climate change.

Key Takeaways

• The service leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to deliver real-time, tailored climate advisory services.
• It focuses on providing smallholder farmers with localized, actionable weather and climate insights.
• The initiative aims to assist farmers in making critical decisions regarding sowing, irrigation, and pest management.
• Advisory services will be accessible through user-friendly digital channels, including an AI-powered WhatsApp bot.

Additional Details

• Implementation Phase: The project will initially be rolled out in Maharashtra through ICAR's Agro-Meteorological Field Units (AMFUs) targeting smallholder farmers.
• Support and Collaboration: The initiative is supported under the Government of India's Monsoon Mission III and involves several organizations, including the Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA-ICAR), the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
• iSAT Tool: The Intelligent Systems Advisory Tool (iSAT), previously piloted during Monsoon Mission II, is being upgraded into a fully functional AI-powered platform to transform complex climate data into personalized advisories.

This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the agricultural decision-making process for farmers, particularly in areas prone to climate variability. By providing timely and relevant insights, ICRISAT aims to serve as a model for future agricultural advisory services both nationally and internationally.

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Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project

Why in News?

The Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) project is nearing the completion of its first phase, aiming to sequence the genomes of a significant number of species across Britain and Ireland.

Key Takeaways

• The project targets the sequencing of genomes from 70,000 species of eukaryotic organisms.
• It is part of the larger Earth BioGenome Project, which endeavors to sequence all complex life on Earth.
• The initiative employs advanced DNA sequencing technologies and computational tools to analyze genetic diversity.

Additional Details

• Eukaryotes: These are organisms with complex cells that have a defined nucleus. They include multi-cellular organisms such as protists, plants, animals, and fungi.
• Eukaryotic cells feature a nuclear membrane that encases the nucleus, which holds well-defined chromosomes.
• These cells also contain various organelles, such as mitochondria (responsible for cellular energy production) and the Golgi apparatus.
• Reproductive methods in eukaryotes include asexual reproduction through mitosis and sexual reproduction via meiosis and gamete fusion.

This collaborative effort involves ten partners specializing in biodiversity, genomics, and analytical methods, all working together to deepen our understanding of life's genetic diversity.

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Kauzmann’s Hypothesis on Protein Core Structure

Why in News?

New research challenges Walter Kauzmann’s 1959 hypothesis regarding protein folding, suggesting that the cores of proteins are more flexible than previously thought. This finding has significant implications for understanding protein structure and function.

Key Takeaways

• Proteins are biological macromolecules composed of 20 amino acids arranged in specific sequences.
• Sequence determines the 3D shape of proteins, which is essential for their functionality.

Additional Details

• Water Interaction:
  • Hydrophilic: Amino acids like lysine are located on the outer surface of proteins, attracting water.
  • Hydrophobic: Amino acids such as tryptophan are found buried in the core, avoiding water.
• Kauzmann Hypothesis (1959): Proposed that proteins fold due to a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic surface.
• 1960s X-ray Evidence: Supported the idea of hydrophobic residues being positioned inside the protein structure, while hydrophilic residues remained outside.
• Earlier Belief: It was thought that the protein core was highly sensitive to changes, with minor alterations potentially destabilizing the structure.

Recent Research Findings

• Study Design:Analyzed 78,125 combinations of amino acids across 3 proteins:
  • Human SH3 domain (FYN tyrosine kinase)
  • Barley CI-2A protein
  • E. coli CspA protein
• Findings: While many changes were detrimental, thousands of stable conformations were identified, with SH3-FYN exhibiting over 12,000 stable forms.
• Machine Learning Insights: Stability predictions were accurate even with less than 25% sequence similarity.

Implications

• Protein Engineering: Potential for modifying protein cores without compromising stability, which could benefit therapeutic applications.
• Evolutionary Insight: Suggests that protein cores may have had greater adaptability throughout evolution than previously assumed.

This new understanding of protein core flexibility opens avenues for advancements in biochemistry and molecular biology, particularly in the fields of drug design and protein engineering.

[UPSC 2010] Which one of the following processes in the bodies of living organisms is a digestive process?

• (a) Breakdown of proteins into amino acids *
• (b) Breakdown of glucose into CO2 and H2O
• (c) Conversion of glucose into glycogen
• (d) Conversion of amino acids into proteins.

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COCO 4.9 Ocean Circulation Model

Why in News?

Researchers utilized the COCO (Center for Climate System Research Ocean Component) version 4.9 ocean model to forecast the dispersion of tritium from the Fukushima nuclear disaster's 30-year wastewater release across the Pacific Ocean, examining both current and future climate scenarios.

Key Takeaways

• The COCO 4.9 ocean model is a computer-based simulator that analyzes seawater movement and mixing over time.
• It predicts how nuclear contaminants, like tritium, will disperse in the ocean, providing critical data for nuclear waste disposal.

Additional Details

• Model Purpose: A computer-based ocean simulator designed to study the dynamics of seawater movement, mixing, and changes over time.
• Methodology: The model divides the ocean into layers and grids, calculating current flows and mixing patterns.
• Resolution: Can operate in both low detail (with larger grid blocks) and high detail (capturing small swirling eddies).
• Climate Link: Capable of modeling the impacts of warming oceans, altered currents, and changing circulation patterns.
• Fukushima Application: Created a “virtual Pacific Ocean” to track the spread of tritium over decades, mapping dispersion pathways for radioactive materials.
• Key Findings:
  • Tritium levels are projected to remain well below natural background radiation levels across the Pacific.
  • While global warming might accelerate some currents, tritium levels will remain undetectable.
  • Tritium's natural half-life of 12 years ensures minimal long-term environmental impact.

This model serves as a critical tool for understanding the long-term implications of nuclear waste disposal and the environmental impact of radioactive materials in oceanic systems.

GS3/Science and Technology

Seabuckthorn: The Wonder Plant of Cold Deserts

Why in News?

The seeds of seabuckthorn and buckwheat cultivated in the cold desert of Ladakh are currently part of experiments aboard the International Space Station conducted by NASA's Crew-11 mission.

Key Takeaways

• Seabuckthorn is often referred to as the 'Wonder Plant', 'Ladakh Gold', 'Golden Bush', or 'Gold Mine' of cold deserts.
• This plant species thrives in extreme temperatures and is notably drought-resistant.

Additional Details

• Distribution: Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is found across Europe and Asia, particularly in the Himalayan region of India, where it grows above the tree line in dry areas like Ladakh and Spiti.
• Characteristics: The plant produces small orange or yellow berries that are sour yet rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C. It can endure temperatures ranging from -43°C to 40°C and retains its berries during winter, making it resilient in harsh climates.
• Uses: Traditionally, every part of the seabuckthorn plant—fruit, leaves, twigs, roots, and thorns—has been utilized for various purposes such as medicine, nutritional supplements, fuel, and fencing. Furthermore, its berries provide food for numerous bird species during periods of food scarcity.
• The leaves serve as a protein-rich fodder for animals in cold desert regions, including sheep, goats, donkeys, cattle, and double-humped camels.

In summary, the seabuckthorn plant is not only vital for its ecological benefits but also holds significant cultural and nutritional value in the regions it grows, making it a key subject of study in space and terrestrial environments.

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Charge-Coupled Device

Why in News?

The charge-coupled device (CCD) is a groundbreaking electronic component that has had a profound impact on various technological fields, particularly in imaging systems.

Key Takeaways

• A CCD converts light into electrical signals using an array of capacitors.
• It consists of an integrated circuit made up of small picture elements known as pixels.
• The device operates on the principle of the photoelectric effect to generate images.

Additional Details

• Functionality: Each pixel in a CCD acts as a light sensor, collecting photons and converting them into electrical charges. These charges are sequentially transferred across the device to create a digital image.
• Photoelectric Effect: When light hits the CCD, it generates electron-hole pairs in the semiconductor material. This process produces a small group of electrons that corresponds to the intensity of light received by the pixel.
• The sequential transfer mechanism of charges resembles passing buckets of water, allowing for precise imaging results.

CCDs have revolutionized digital imaging, replacing traditional film in cameras and enabling high-quality imaging in various fields such as medicine and astronomy. Their ability to capture detailed images has made them indispensable in today’s technology landscape.

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Bloom Syndrome

Why in News?

A 12-year-old girl recently diagnosed with Bloom Syndrome underwent a successful bone marrow transplant using stem cells from her younger brother at a private hospital in Chennai, highlighting the ongoing need for research and awareness about this rare genetic disorder.

Key Takeaways

• Bloom Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the BLM gene.
• It leads to growth delays, increased susceptibility to infections, and a higher risk of certain cancers.

Additional Details

• Bloom Syndrome (BSyn): A genetic disorder characterized by mutations in the BLM gene, which is crucial for DNA maintenance and repair. Individuals with this condition often experience growth delays and an increased risk of developing cancers at an early age.
• Inheritance Pattern: The disorder is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning both parents must carry the mutation for the child to be affected. It is most prevalent in the Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish population.
• Signs and Symptoms: Common symptoms include poor growth (both pre- and post-natal), below-average height, skin sensitivity to sunlight, and physical abnormalities such as prominent facial features.
• Health Risks: Individuals are at a higher risk for infections, insulin resistance, and reproductive issues, with potential male sterility and female infertility.
• Treatment Approach: Currently, there is no specific cure for Bloom Syndrome. Management focuses on a multidisciplinary approach to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

In summary, Bloom Syndrome is a serious genetic condition that requires comprehensive management strategies to address its various health implications. Awareness and research are essential for better understanding and treatment options for affected individuals.

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New World Screwworm: A Flesh-Eating Parasite

Why in News?

Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services reported the first human case of the flesh-eating parasite, the New World screwworm, in the United States. This case raises concerns about the potential for infestation and its serious health implications.

Key Takeaways

• New World screwworms are a type of blue-grey blowfly found primarily in South America and the Caribbean.
• These parasites are known for their screw-like behavior when burrowing into tissue.
• Female screwworms can lay hundreds to thousands of eggs, which hatch into larvae that feed on living flesh.

Additional Details

• Infestation Symptoms:Symptoms of infestation include:
  • Sores that do not heal
  • Bleeding from open wounds
  • Feeling of larvae movement within a skin wound or sore
  • Foul-smelling odor from the site of the infestation
• Infestation can be extremely painful, particularly in humans, and poses a high mortality risk if not treated promptly.

The emergence of New World screwworm cases in humans emphasizes the need for awareness and preventive measures against this dangerous parasite.

GS3/Science and Technology

ISRO Conducts Air Drop Test for Gaganyaan

Why in News?

ISRO has successfully conducted its first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-1), a significant milestone for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. This test involved the release of a five-tonne dummy crew capsule from a helicopter to assess its parachute-based deceleration system, which is essential for ensuring safe splashdown. The successful execution of this test validates critical safety mechanisms necessary for ensuring astronaut survival during re-entry and landing. The first uncrewed mission is anticipated by late 2025, while India’s inaugural crewed spaceflight is planned for 2027.

Key Takeaways

• The IADT-1 test simulates the final phase of a spacecraft's return to Earth.
• Parachute deployment and module safety during splashdown were evaluated.
• Upcoming missions include the first uncrewed launch (Gaganyaan-1) planned for late 2025.

Additional Details

• Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT): This test simulates a launch pad abort scenario, allowing engineers to assess critical systems such as parachute deployment during emergencies and performance during partial parachute failure. However, it cannot fully replicate the actual re-entry conditions, which necessitate further sub-orbital or orbital testing.
• Purpose of IADT-1: Conducted to evaluate the parachute-based deceleration system, an uncrewed capsule was dropped from 3 km altitude with parachutes designed to deploy in a specific sequence, ultimately slowing the capsule to approximately 8 m/s prior to splashdown.
• The test confirmed the crew module's orientation and recovery process during splashdown, ensuring astronaut safety.

The Gaganyaan mission represents a critical step in India's long-term human spaceflight objectives, aiming to send Indian astronauts to low-earth orbit by 2027. To achieve this, ISRO is executing a series of rigorous tests to validate essential safety and mission systems, including the upcoming Test Vehicle Abort Mission-2 (TV-D2), scheduled for the third quarter of 2025, which will simulate a more complex abort scenario.

GS3/Science and Technology

Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV)

Why in News?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is in the process of developing its heaviest rocket to date, the Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV), aimed at enhancing India's capabilities in space exploration.

Key Takeaways

• The LMLV is designed primarily for lunar exploration and aims to support India's first human mission to the Moon by 2040.
• This rocket will replace the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) plan and will aid in the development of India's space station program.
• It will be as tall as a 40-storey building, significantly larger than the current LVM-3 model.

Additional Details

• Payload Capacity: The LMLV can carry up to 80 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 27 tonnes to the Moon, making it suitable for human-rated spacecraft.
• Design:The vehicle is a partially reusable super heavy-lift rocket that consists of three stages:
  • The first two stages utilize liquid propellants.
  • The third stage operates on cryogenic propellant.
  • It features strap-on boosters that are taller than the entire LVM-3 rocket and a total of 27 engines in the first stage (core plus boosters).
• Timeline: The LMLV is expected to be completed by 2035, demonstrating ISRO's commitment to advancing India's long-term space exploration goals.

Future missions planned using the LMLV include:

• Human Lunar Mission (2040 target): The LMLV will be capable of carrying crew modules weighing 18-20 tonnes for India's inaugural astronaut landing on the Moon.
• Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS): The LMLV will facilitate the deployment of heavy modules for India's planned five-module space station by 2035.
• Lunar Cargo Missions: It can transport approximately 27 tonnes to the Moon, aiding in logistics and infrastructure development on the lunar surface.
• Deep Space Exploration: The heavy-lift capacity of the LMLV could support interplanetary missions in the 2040s, extending beyond lunar initiatives.

In light of these developments, the LMLV is poised to significantly enhance India's position in global space exploration.

GS3/Science and Technology

Reforming the Steel Framework

Why in News?

The Prime Minister's speech on Independence Day 2025 marked a significant shift towards focusing on frontier technologies, including semiconductors, clean energy, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and defense indigenization. This speech acknowledged the bureaucratic inertia and regulatory challenges that continue to impede India's technological ambitions.

Key Takeaways

• The Prime Minister emphasized the need for India to develop capabilities in critical areas such as semiconductors and electric vehicles (EVs).
• India aims to reduce dependency on imports within two decades.
• India is currently the largest per capita data consumer globally, surpassing China and the US.

Additional Details

• Current Technological Landscape: India has established strengths in mid-tech sectors, particularly in fintech, data access, and digitization. Key cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad are emerging as high-tech hubs.
• Import Dependency: Despite advancements, India heavily relies on imports for semiconductors and defense hardware, highlighting the need for self-reliance.
• Bureaucratic Challenges: The colonial legacy of bureaucratic structures prioritizes control over innovation, with rigid frameworks inhibiting progress. Efforts for reform, including the Veerappa Moily Committee's recommendations, have not been fully realized.
• Importance of Reforms: Regulatory and judicial reforms are critical to eliminate persistent red tape and improve the investment climate, particularly in high-tech sectors.
• International Comparisons: Countries like the US and China showcase models where political leadership can effectively drive national interests, contrasting with India's bureaucratic hurdles.
• Vision for Viksit Bharat@2047: For India to become a deep-tech powerhouse, it must undergo significant governance restructuring alongside financial investments.

In conclusion, India's aspirations in deep-tech must align with necessary institutional reforms. The Prime Minister's 2025 address highlighted the need to address bureaucratic bottlenecks as part of the broader goal of achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat. The upcoming centenary of the UPSC in 2026 presents a unique opportunity to reshape governance to meet India's 2047 objectives.

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India’s Aquanauts to Lead Deep-Sea Exploration under Samudrayaan

Why in News?

Recently, two Indian aquanauts, Cdr (Retd) Jatinder Pal Singh and R Ramesh, completed training dives aboard the French vessel Nautile, achieving depths of 5,002 and 4,025 metres in the Atlantic Ocean. These dives are preparatory steps for India's ambitious Samudrayaan project, which aims to send three humans to a depth of 6,000 metres by 2027. This initiative parallels how Axiom-4 supports the Gaganyaan mission, providing crucial insights for enhancing India's deep-sea exploration capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• The Samudrayaan mission aims for deep-ocean exploration, reaching 6,000 metres.
• Matsya-6000 is the crewed submersible being developed for this mission.
• India's deep-sea exploration aligns with its Blue Economy Vision.

Additional Details

• Samudrayaan Mission: This mission is part of India's Deep Ocean Mission, approved in 2021, with a budget of ₹4,077 crore over five years. Its goals include developing technologies for deep-sea mining and underwater vehicles.
• Matsya-6000: This submersible is designed to carry three aquanauts to depths of 6,000 metres. It is shaped like a large fish and contains a 2.1-metre diameter personal sphere for the crew, ensuring life support for 12-hour missions.
• Challenges: The mission faces significant challenges such as developing a pressure-resistant vessel and maintaining a livable environment for the aquanauts.
• Health and Safety: Aquanauts must undergo rigorous physical conditioning and manage food and water intake carefully during missions.
• Communication: Traditional communication methods fail underwater; thus, India is developing an acoustic telephone system for reliable communication.

The Samudrayaan Mission positions India among a select group of nations, including the United States, Russia, China, Japan, and France, with advanced capabilities in deep-sea exploration. This initiative not only aims to explore the largely uncharted deep ocean, which holds vast reserves of resources, but also supports India's vision of achieving a Viksit Bharat.