UPSC Science & Technology October 2025 Current Affairs PDF Download
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Anna Mani and Her Contributions to India's Atmospheric Research
Why in News?
The National Book Trust has recently published a book that highlights the groundbreaking work of physicist Anna Mani, particularly her pioneering studies on ozone and pollution in Pune, which occurred decades before the term "climate change" became widely recognized.
Key Takeaways
- Anna Mani was a prominent Indian physicist and meteorologist from Peermade, Kerala.
- She played a crucial role in advancing India's meteorological instrumentation and atmospheric science.
- Her work in ozone research and pollution predates modern discussions on climate change.
Additional Details
- Early Life and Education: Anna Mani studied physics at Presidency College, Chennai (1939), and received training at Imperial College, London. She later joined the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, working under C.V. Raman and published five papers on crystallography.
- Professional Career: In 1948, she joined the India Meteorological Department (IMD), where she headed the Instruments Division and earned the nickname "Weather Woman of India."
- Key Contributions:
- Meteorological Instrumentation: Designed and standardized over 100 weather instruments, including India's first pyranometers and sunshine recorders, reducing dependence on imported equipment.
- Measurement Infrastructure: Established a national network of observatories for solar, wind, and radiation measurements, contributing to India's first Wind Energy Atlas.
- Ozone & Atmospheric Research: In 1964, she developed India's first ozonesonde balloon capable of measuring ozone levels up to 35 km. Her work became integral to the WMO Global Ozone Mapping Programme.
- Instrument Design & Ethics: Innovated with materials like glass and Teflon to minimize chemical errors in ozonesondes, adhering to her principle that "wrong measurements are worse than none."
- Publications: Authored significant works including "Handbook for Solar Radiation Data for India" (1980) and "Wind Energy Resource Survey in India" (1992), which are still considered reference standards today.
- Environmental Vision: Early on, she warned about CFC emissions and ozone depletion, linking industrialization to atmospheric changes and foreshadowing discussions around the Anthropocene.
- Legacy: Her datasets provide India's earliest continuous records of ozone, radiation, and aerosol changes, forming the basis for contemporary climate model validation and policy research.
Anna Mani's contributions have had a lasting impact on atmospheric sciences in India, laying foundational work that continues to inform climate research and policy today.
GS3/Science and Technology
Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe
Why in News?
Recently, NASA launched the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) to study how solar particles are energized and how they provide shielding for Earth.
Key Takeaways
- The primary goal of IMAP is to map the heliosphere's boundary.
- It aims to trace energetic particles and enhance space weather forecasting.
- IMAP is positioned at the first Earth-Sun Lagrange point (L1), approximately one million miles from Earth toward the Sun.
Additional Details
- Heliosphere: A vast bubble formed by the solar wind that encompasses our entire solar system.
- Real-time Observations: IMAP will provide near real-time data to help scientists monitor space weather conditions, which can create hazardous situations in the space environment near Earth.
- Scientific Instruments: IMAP is equipped with 10 scientific instruments designed to detect various types of particles and phenomena in space, including energetic neutral-atom detectors (IMAP-Lo, IMAP-Hi, IMAP-Ultra).
- These instruments will help uncover fundamental physics, improve forecasting of solar wind disturbances, and enhance our understanding of cosmic materials.
- IMAP's mission also aims to clarify how the heliosphere protects life on Earth from cosmic rays.
The launch of IMAP marks a significant advancement in our efforts to understand space weather and its impacts on Earth, providing crucial insights into our galactic environment.
GS3/Science and Technology
AI's Rewriting of the Rules of Education
Why in News?
India is on the verge of a significant transformation in its educational landscape, with plans to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into classrooms as early as Class 3, starting from the academic year 2026-27. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and aims to prepare future generations for an AI-driven global economy while ensuring the country remains competitive in an era of automation and digital innovation.
Key Takeaways
- The introduction of AI in education is not just a technological enhancement but a fundamental rethinking of learning methodologies.
- AI platforms provide personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs.
- The success of AI integration relies heavily on the training and development of teachers.
Additional Details
- AI as a Catalyst: AI-driven educational tools enable personalized learning pathways, adapting to the strengths and weaknesses of each student. This can help democratize education by supporting diverse learner needs, especially in a country with significant socio-educational disparities.
- Teacher Empowerment: With over one crore teachers in India, the initiative emphasizes continuous professional development to aid teachers in transitioning from traditional roles to AI-guided mentorship, addressing whether they are prepared for this change.
- Balancing Technology and Human Insight: While AI can handle administrative tasks, human educators are essential for emotional support and creative instruction, making it crucial for teachers to evolve into facilitators of higher-order thinking.
- Future Workforce Implications: The shift towards AI in education reflects broader labor market changes. Preparing students with AI literacy is essential to equip them for future job markets, emphasizing skills like resilience, creativity, and ethical awareness.
- Bridging Inequality: AI holds the promise of expanding educational access and equity. However, this potential can only be realized if issues regarding digital infrastructure and affordability are addressed to prevent widening existing inequalities.
In conclusion, India's initiative to integrate AI into school education signifies a pivotal moment for its educational framework. It embodies the aspirations for innovation and foresight but also raises significant questions regarding readiness, inclusivity, and ethical implementation. The future of the educational system will depend on thoughtful policies, teacher empowerment, and equitable access to technology. As India embarks on this transformative journey, it is clear that AI is not just a tool but a powerful catalyst for reshaping learning and opportunities for the next generation.
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DRAVYA Portal: A Major Advancement in Ayurvedic Research
Why in News?
The Ministry of Ayush has recently introduced the Digitized Retrieval Application for Versatile Yardstick of Ayush Substances (DRAVYA) portal, which serves as the largest digital repository of Ayurvedic ingredients and formulations. This initiative is a significant step towards integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern scientific methodologies.
Key Takeaways
- The DRAVYA portal was developed by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) under the Ministry of Ayush.
- Launched on the 10th Ayurveda Day (23 September 2025) in Goa, marking a pivotal moment for digital innovation in traditional medicine.
- The portal initially covers data on 100 medicinal substances, ensuring accuracy through a dedicated entry system.
- It aims to integrate with the Ayush Grid and other Ministry databases for improved digital governance and research.
Additional Details
- Purpose: To establish a centralized, open-access knowledge platform that merges classical Ayurveda with modern scientific data for global research and policy formulation.
- Integration Goal: Designed to connect with the Ayush Grid and related Ministry databases for coordinated efforts in digital governance and research.
- Comprehensive Profiles: Each substance includes detailed information on pharmacotherapeutics, botany, chemistry, pharmacology, and safety aspects.
- AI-Ready Design: The portal incorporates artificial intelligence capabilities for enhanced analytics, discovery, and predictive research.
- Global Accessibility: The DRAVYA portal serves as a credible digital reference for researchers, policymakers, and innovators around the world.
- Future Expansion: Plans to interlink with the Ayush Grid and the National Medicinal Plants Database for a cohesive digital health ecosystem.
The DRAVYA portal represents a critical advancement in the field of Ayurvedic research, facilitating better access to validated data and integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific practices.
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India's 4G Stack and Digital Export Ambitions
Why in News?
Prime Minister Modi announced at the India Mobile Congress 2025 that India's indigenous 4G technology stack is set to enhance domestic connectivity and will also be exported globally. This initiative aims to challenge China's dominance in telecom infrastructure development, especially in emerging markets like Africa. Though not as advanced as systems from Chinese companies like Huawei and ZTE, India aims to penetrate these markets with affordable, secure, and locally developed solutions.
Key Takeaways
- India's 4G stack is a combination of both telecom hardware and software.
- New Delhi plans to promote its 'India Stack'-a suite of digital public infrastructure tools for identity, data management, and payments.
Additional Details
- 4G Technology: Represents the fourth generation of wireless communication, succeeding 3G, and paving the way for 5G. It enables high-speed internet access, allowing for HD video streaming and wireless broadband connectivity.
- Indigenous Development: India launched its first indigenously developed 4G network during the Covid-19 pandemic, featuring 98,000 Swadeshi 4G towers powered entirely by local technology, marking a significant step towards digital self-reliance.
- Key Players: The initiative is led by C-DOT (core network), Tejas Networks (radio access), and TCS (system integration), showcasing India's engineering capabilities.
- Future-Ready Network: The BSNL 4G stack is designed to be cloud-native and 5G-ready, ensuring seamless connectivity and easy future upgrades.
- Nationwide Reach: Deployed across over 92,000 sites, it provides connectivity to 22 million citizens, including those in remote areas.
- Digital Sovereignty: Empowers India to control its telecom infrastructure, ensuring security and reducing reliance on foreign technology.
- Employment Generation: Aims to boost domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and develop a skilled workforce in the telecom sector.
- Export Potential: The indigenous 4G stack not only addresses domestic needs but also holds promise for export opportunities to developing nations.
In summary, India's indigenously developed 4G technology stack represents a significant advancement in its telecom capabilities, aiming for both self-reliance and global export potential while challenging the existing dominance of Chinese technology in developing markets.
GS3/Science and Technology
National Blockchain Framework (NBF)
Why in News?
The National Blockchain Framework (NBF) has been launched to establish a unified and secure architecture for blockchain technology in India, aiming to enhance governance and public service delivery.
Key Takeaways
- Launched in September 2024 with a budget of ₹64.76 crores by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
- Aims to promote trust, transparency, and interoperability across digital systems via a permissioned blockchain network.
Additional Details
- Core Components: The NBF includes a modular platform called the Vishvasya Blockchain Stack, which provides distributed infrastructure and open APIs for e-Governance integration.
- NBFLite: A testing environment for startups and innovators to build and validate blockchain prototypes, preloaded with smart contract templates for governance applications.
- Praamaanik: A mobile app verification system that enhances digital trust and cybersecurity by authenticating legitimate applications.
- National Blockchain Portal: A digital interface for promoting blockchain adoption, serving as a repository of standards and policies.
The NBF is expected to significantly impact various sectors by enabling ministries and state governments to develop Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS) solutions, facilitating faster and tamper-proof transactions.
Applications in India's Governance
- Certificate & Document Chain: Secures government-issued documents to prevent forgery, with over 34 crore verifications completed.
- Property Chain: Ensures transparent recording of land transactions, reducing litigation and expediting updates.
- Judiciary Chain: Maintains immutable judicial records, facilitating the electronic delivery of legal documents.
- Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS): Links police, prosecution, and judiciary databases for efficient case management.
- Logistics Chain (Aushada): Tracks pharmaceutical supply chains to ensure drug authenticity.
- RBI's Digital Rupee Pilot: Demonstrates a blockchain-based Central Bank Digital Currency for traceable transactions.
UPSC 2020 Question:
With reference to "Blockchain Technology," consider the following statements:
- It is a public ledger that everyone can inspect, but which no single user controls.
- The structure and design of blockchain is such that all the data in it are about cryptocurrency only.
- Applications that depend on basic features of blockchain can be developed without anybody's permission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 only
- (d) 1 and 3 only
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Crew Escape System (CES) in the Gaganyaan Mission
Why in News?
The Crew Escape System (CES) represents ISRO's most critical safety advancement for the Gaganyaan mission. This information is derived from an article published in The Hindu, highlighting the importance of CES in ensuring astronaut safety during spaceflights.
Key Takeaways
- Gaganyaan is India's first human spaceflight mission, initiated in 2007.
- The mission aims to send 3 astronauts into Low Earth Orbit (400 km) for 3 days, followed by a splashdown in the Arabian Sea.
- ISRO will use a Human-Rated LVM3 (HLVM3) rocket, adapted from GSLV Mk3, certified for human use by 2025.
- India aims to become the 4th nation with crewed spaceflight capability, after the US, Russia, and China.
- Upcoming timeline includes uncrewed missions in late 2025 and early 2027 for crewed flights.
Additional Details
- Purpose of CES: The Crew Escape System is a vital safety mechanism designed to facilitate astronaut rescue in the event of a launch vehicle failure during ascent.
- Placement & Function: CES is mounted atop the rocket and uses high-thrust solid motors to rapidly separate the crew module, propelling it to safety.
- Performance: The escape motors can generate acceleration up to 10 g, utilizing high burn-rate propellants to ensure faster thrust than the launcher.
- Safety Systems: The system includes redundant subsystems and real-time health monitoring through the Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) network, allowing for millisecond-level response times.
- Types of CES:
- Puller-Type: Utilizes solid-fuel motors to pull the crew module away from the rocket, as seen in missions like Russia's Soyuz and China's Long March.
- Pusher-Type: Employs liquid-fuel thrusters to push the capsule away, exemplified by SpaceX's Crew Dragon on the Falcon 9.
- Operational Sequence & Recovery:
- Automatic Activation: The IVHM system triggers CES upon detecting anomalies, firing the escape motors to clear the crew module from the rocket.
- Separation & Descent: After achieving a safe distance, CES detaches, allowing the module to descend under a multistage parachute system.
- Splashdown & Safety: The module lands in the sea, ensuring impact forces remain within safe physiological limits for quick recovery.
The Crew Escape System serves as the core life-saving mechanism of India's human spaceflight program, ensuring the safety and survival of astronauts during potential launch failures.
UPSC 2025
Consider the following space missions:
- I. Axiom-4
- II. SpaDeX
- III. Gaganyaan
How many of the space missions given above encourage and support microgravity research?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All three*
- (d) None
GS3/Science and Technology
CMS-03 Satellite Launch by ISRO
Why in News?
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the military communications satellite CMS-03, also known as GSAT-7R, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre located in Sriharikota.
Key Takeaways
- CMS-03 is a communication satellite that will enhance military communications.
- It will be launched using the Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3).
- Weighing approximately 4400 kg, it will be the heaviest communication satellite launched by ISRO.
- The satellite will be placed into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
Additional Details
- Multi-band Communication: CMS-03 will offer services across a wide oceanic region, including the Indian landmass, providing sharper connectivity and increased bandwidth for civil, strategic, and maritime users.
- Geosynchronous Orbit: This orbit is characterized by its prograde direction (matching Earth's rotation), low inclination, and high altitude. A satellite in this orbit maintains a constant longitude above the Earth, making it ideal for communication purposes.
- The geosynchronous orbit is also referred to as the Clarke orbit, named after the science fiction writer Arthur C. Clarke, who popularized the concept.
The launch of the CMS-03 satellite is significant for enhancing the communication capabilities of the armed forces and is scheduled for next week.
GS3/Science and Technology
Govt Mandates Sound Alert Devices for EVs to Enhance Road Safety
Why in News?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed the implementation of mandatory Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) in electric vehicles (EVs) including cars, buses, and trucks. This initiative aims to reduce road accidents by alerting pedestrians and other road users of an EV's presence, particularly at low speeds where these vehicles operate quietly.
Key Takeaways
- New regulations require AVAS in all new EV models by October 1, 2026.
- Existing EV models must comply with AVAS requirements by October 1, 2027.
- EVs moving below 20 km/h produce minimal sound, increasing accident risks.
Additional Details
- Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS): AVAS is designed to emit an audible warning sound for electric and hybrid vehicles, which are often nearly silent at low speeds. This feature helps to alert vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
- Activation: The system activates when the vehicle is moving at low speeds (0-20 km/h) or when in reverse, ensuring safety in areas with high pedestrian traffic.
- Sound Generation: AVAS uses an external speaker to produce a continuous sound resembling that of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles or a distinctive warning sound.
- Speed Synchronization: The AVAS is connected to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) to adjust the sound's pitch and volume based on the vehicle's speed.
- Deactivation: The system deactivates when the vehicle exceeds the low-speed threshold, as the natural sounds of the vehicle become sufficient to alert others.
This regulation comes in response to the rapid increase in EV adoption in India, where the share of EVs sold has jumped from 0.01% in 2014-15 to 7.31% in 2024-25, with 19.5 lakh EVs sold in 2024 alone. The government recognizes the importance of AVAS, especially as EVs are increasingly used in urban and suburban areas. However, it's important to note that the current rules do not apply to two- and three-wheelers, which could pose additional safety risks in densely populated environments.
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Nafithromycin: India's First Indigenous Antibiotic
Why in News?
The Union Science and Technology Minister has recently announced that India has developed its first indigenously discovered antibiotic, Nafithromycin. This significant advancement represents a milestone in the country's pharmaceutical innovations aimed at addressing pressing health challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Nafithromycin is the first molecule entirely conceptualized, developed, and clinically validated in India.
- It is designed to combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), particularly targeting resistant respiratory infections.
- The antibiotic is marketed under the trade name "Miqnaf."
Additional Details
- Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial medicines, making infections increasingly difficult to treat. This condition heightens the risk of disease spread, severe illness, disability, and death.
- Nafithromycin is particularly effective against Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) and is especially beneficial for vulnerable populations, such as cancer patients and those with poorly controlled diabetes.
- This antibiotic stands out as it targets both typical and atypical pathogens, filling a critical gap in antibiotic development, as no new antibiotic in this class has been introduced globally for over thirty years.
The development of Nafithromycin marks a significant achievement in India's efforts to tackle AMR and improve healthcare outcomes, reinforcing the country's capacity for pharmaceutical innovation.
GS3/Science and Technology
Google's Willow Processor Demonstrates Verifiable Quantum Advantage
Why in News?
Recently, two significant studies published in the journal Nature by a collaboration of researchers from Google, MIT, Stanford, and Caltech have claimed a verifiable demonstration of quantum advantage using Google's Willow quantum processor. These studies represent a notable advancement in the pursuit of practical quantum computing, showcasing that quantum systems can surpass classical supercomputers in specific computational tasks.
Key Takeaways
- Working of Quantum Computers: Utilizing the principles of superposition and interference.
- Study 1 - Decoded Quantum Interferometry (DQI): An algorithm that optimizes solutions efficiently.
- Study 2 - Measuring Quantum Information Scrambling: Investigating how information disperses across qubits.
- Connection with Google's 2019 Claim: Transition from claiming quantum supremacy to demonstrating verifiable quantum advantage.
- Significance: Strengthening the foundations of quantum simulation and future applications.
Additional Details
- Working of Quantum Computers: Quantum computers utilize the wave-like properties of subatomic particles. They apply the principle of interference to enhance correct answers through constructive interference while negating incorrect ones. Quantum bits, or qubits, can exist in multiple states simultaneously (known as superposition), allowing for extensive parallel processing compared to classical bits.
- Study 1 - Decoded Quantum Interferometry (DQI): This paper introduced DQI, a quantum algorithm aimed at solving optimization problems. By employing a quantum Fourier transform to control interference patterns, it effectively identifies optimal solutions much faster than classical algorithms, which is particularly beneficial in fields such as logistics and finance.
- Study 2 - Measuring Quantum Information Scrambling: Information scrambling refers to how data from one qubit spreads across all qubits in a quantum system, similar to how dye disperses in water. Researchers simulated this phenomenon through a disturbance (termed a "kick") and monitored the information's dispersal, revealing the extent of scrambling.
- Verification: Unlike the 2019 Sycamore experiment, which lacked full verification, the Willow experiment addresses a scientifically meaningful problem, allowing for cross-checks with classical computers or other quantum systems.
- Connection to 2019 Google Claim: Google previously asserted "quantum supremacy" with its Sycamore processor; however, the task was of limited scientific relevance. The Willow studies now indicate a more substantial and verifiable advancement in quantum computing.
- Scientific and Technological Significance: The findings are built on principles laid out by Michel Devoret, a recognized figure in quantum computing. These advancements could pave the way for Hamiltonian learning and enhance quantum simulation and error correction techniques.
- Way Forward: Future challenges include error correction, achieving scalability with thousands of qubits, developing verification frameworks, exploring interdisciplinary applications, and fostering public-private collaborations to accelerate progress in quantum technologies.
The Willow quantum processor's achievements represent a critical leap toward practical quantum computing by demonstrating verifiable quantum advantage in addressing meaningful physical problems. While challenges in scalability and validation remain, these studies mark a significant progression from theoretical concepts to experimental realities, with far-reaching implications for science and technology.
GS3/Science and Technology
India's Dhvani Hypersonic Missile
Why in News?
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India is gearing up for the first test of the "Dhvani" hypersonic missile.
Key Takeaways
- The Dhvani missile represents India's advancements in hypersonic technology.
- It is designed as a Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV) capable of exceeding Mach 5.
- The missile is expected to enhance India's strategic capabilities significantly.
Additional Details
- Overview: The Dhvani hypersonic missile is being developed by the DRDO as part of its advanced hypersonic weapons program.
- Type: It is designed as a Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV) that can travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5 (over 7,400 km/h) while executing sharp maneuvers at high altitudes.
- Range and Speed: The missile has an expected operational range of 6,000-10,000 km, potentially doubling the reach of India's Agni-V ICBM.
- Flight Mechanism: Launched to extreme altitudes, it enters a glide phase in the atmosphere at hypersonic speeds, capable of changing direction mid-course, making interception nearly impossible.
- Design and Engineering: The missile measures approximately 9 metres in length and 2.5 metres in width, featuring a blended wing-body configuration for enhanced lift and stability.
- Thermal Protection System: Utilizes ultra-high-temperature ceramic composites that can withstand temperatures between 2,000-3,000°C during re-entry.
- Stealth Features: The design includes angled surfaces and smooth contours to minimize radar cross-section, rendering it nearly undetectable to enemy radar systems.
- Development Heritage: The missile builds upon the success of the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV), which validated crucial technologies for hypersonic flight.
Comparison with Global Hypersonic Systems
| System Name | Speed (Mach) | Operational Status |
|---|---|---|
| Russia Avangard | 20+ | Deployed |
| China DF-ZF | 8-10 | In testing |
| United States Dark Eagle / HACM | Hypersonic Glide / Cruise | In testing |
| Dhvani (HGV) | 5-6+ | Pre-test stage (2025) |
Strategic Significance for India
- Global Standing: Positions India among the U.S., Russia, and China as a hypersonic power, showcasing its advanced defense R&D capabilities.
- Regional Deterrence: Provides India a strategic edge over Pakistan and serves as a counterbalance to China's hypersonic arsenal.
- Survivability and Precision: The missile's speed and maneuverability make it hard to intercept, allowing for precise strikes on land and sea targets.
- Indigenous Achievement: Entirely developed through Indian expertise, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision in defense technologies.
- Force Multiplier: Enhances India's nuclear deterrent and strategic triad, ensuring readiness for long-range precision and deterrence missions.
UPSC 2014
Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
- 2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
- 3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
The Dhvani missile signifies a leap in India's defense capabilities, positioning the nation strategically on the global stage while contributing to its self-reliance in military technology.
GS3/Science and Technology
Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP)
Why in News?
The Government of India has announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar, a prestigious national award akin to the Padma awards, aimed at recognizing excellence in science, technology, and innovation.
Key Takeaways
- Vigyan Ratna: Jayant Vishnu Narlikar (posthumously) - renowned astrophysicist and cosmologist known for the Hoyle-Narlikar theory.
- Vigyan Shri: Eight distinguished scientists, including Gyanendra Pratap Singh and Yusuf M. Shaikh.
- Vigyan Yuva: Fourteen young scientists recognized across various domains such as biology, physics, and data science.
- Vigyan Team: CSIR Aroma Mission awarded for significant contributions to India's flavor and fragrance sector.
Additional Details
- Establishment: The RVP was instituted in January 2024 as a national award to honor scientists, technologists, and innovators of Indian origin, whether based in India or abroad.
- Purpose: This award was created to modernize and replace legacy awards like the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, promoting transparency, inclusivity, and a broader scientific domain coverage.
- Governing Authority: The award is administered by the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Committee (RVPC), chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, consisting of 17 members from major science ministries and research councils.
- Award Calendar: Announcements occur every May 11 (National Technology Day), with conferment on August 23 (National Space Day) at Rashtrapati Bhavan by the President of India.
- Award Categories:
- Vigyan Ratna (VR): For lifetime achievement; up to 3 awards annually.
- Vigyan Shri (VS): For distinguished contributions; up to 25 awards.
- Vigyan Yuva - Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB): For scientists under 45 years; up to 25 awards.
- Vigyan Team (VT): For collaborative research groups (minimum 3 members); up to 3 awards.
- Coverage & Eligibility: Open to Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) across thirteen scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Self-nominations are not allowed; nominations must come from institutions, departments, or peers.
- Award Components: Each recipient receives a Sanad signed by the President, a medallion, and a citation booklet. Posthumous awards are transferred to the next of kin.
In conclusion, the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar represents a significant step toward recognizing and honoring scientific achievements in India, fostering innovation and excellence across various domains.
GS3/Science and Technology
Bordetella holmesii: Emerging Threat in North India
Why in News?
A recent study by a team at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh has highlighted a notable increase in infections caused by Bordetella holmesii, a lesser-known bacterium that exhibits symptoms similar to whooping cough in northern India.
Key Takeaways
- Bordetella holmesii: Recognized in 1995, it is a gram-negative coccobacillus.
- Infections from Bordetella holmesii are now more prevalent than those from Bordetella pertussis in North India.
- This bacterium can lead to serious health conditions including endocarditis, pneumonia, cellulitis, suppurative arthritis, and pyelonephritis.
About Whooping Cough
- Definition: Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis.
- Symptoms: It begins with mild cold-like symptoms and a low-grade fever, progressing to severe coughing fits characterized by a "whooping" sound.
- Risk Groups: Particularly severe in infants, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia and even death.
Transmission of Whooping Cough
- The bacterium spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes of an infected person.
- Once inhaled, it attaches to the lining of the throat and releases toxins that damage the cilia, leading to inflammation and severe coughing fits.
Treatment and Prevention
- Vaccination: The Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) vaccine is crucial for prevention.
This rise in infections from Bordetella holmesii emphasizes the need for increased awareness and monitoring of respiratory infections in the region, particularly given the serious implications for vulnerable populations.
GS3/Science and Technology
What is False Smut Disease?
Why in News?
Recent reports indicate that the paddy crop in Punjab, which is at the maturing and harvest stage, has been severely affected by false smut disease, leading to significant agricultural losses.
Key Takeaways
- False smut disease is caused by the fungus Ustilaginoidea virens.
- It is also referred to as Lakshmi disease or Oothupathi disease.
- The disease primarily affects grain quality rather than other parts of the plant.
Additional Details
- Impact on Grains: False smut leads to the chalkiness of grains, which results in a decrease in both grain weight and seed germination.
- Yield Loss Factors: The percentage of infected panicles and the level of infection within each panicle are crucial factors that contribute to yield loss.
- Favorable Conditions:
- Warm and Humid Weather: Optimal temperatures between 25-30°C and humidity levels above 80% facilitate fungal growth.
- Infected Plant Debris: Spores can persist on leftover stubble and straw from previous harvests, increasing the risk of infection.
- Nitrogen Levels: High nitrogen content in the soil, often due to excessive application, can make crops more susceptible to the disease.
- Control Measures: While fungicide application can help manage false smut, overuse has led to resistance in the fungal agents and environmental pollution.
In conclusion, the management of false smut disease is critical for protecting paddy crop yields, especially in regions like Punjab where the disease has recently caused significant damage.
FAQs on Science & Technology: October 2025 UPSC Current Affairs
| 1. Who was Anna Mani and what were her key contributions to atmospheric research in India? |  |
| 2. What is the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) and its significance? | |
| 3. How is AI transforming the education sector? | |
| 4. What advancements does the DRAVYA portal bring to Ayurvedic research? | |
| 5. What is the purpose of the National Blockchain Framework (NBF) in India? | |
