25-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

INDIA’S FIRST MISSION TO VENUS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

India’s first mission to Venus has been officially approved by the Union Cabinet, with a planned launch by ISRO in March 2028. This mission will be India’s second inter-planetary endeavor, following the successful Mars Orbiter Mission in 2013.

The spacecraft aims to explore various aspects of Venus, including its surface, atmosphere, ionosphere, and interactions with the Sun.

Importance of Studying Venus

• Earth’s “Twin”: Venus is often called Earth’s “twin” due to similarities in size, density, and mass.
• Historical Water Presence: It was believed that Venus might have once had liquid water.
• Planetary Differences: Studying Venus helps scientists understand why Earth is habitable, given Venus’s extreme conditions, such as:
  • Average surface temperature of 462°C.
  • A thick atmosphere primarily composed of carbon dioxide.
  • A severe greenhouse effect.

Mission Details

• Launch Timing: Set for March 2028, coinciding with the closest approach of Earth and Venus.
• Travel Duration: The spacecraft will take approximately 140 days to reach Venus.
• Payload: The mission will carry around 100 kg of scientific instruments to:
  • Image the surface of Venus.
  • Study interplanetary dust.
  • Analyze the atmosphere and ionosphere.

Innovative Technology: Aero-Breaking

• Aero-Breaking Technique: This mission will utilize aero-breaking technology, which is a first for ISRO.
  • The spacecraft will enter a highly elliptical orbit around Venus.
  • It will gradually descend to a lower orbit by skimming through the atmosphere, creating drag.
  • This process will take about six months, allowing for fuel-efficient orbital adjustments.

Global Context of Venus Missions

• Previous Missions: Various countries, including the U.S., Japan, and European nations, have previously launched missions to Venus.
• Future Missions:
  • NASA’s DaVinci (2029) and Veritas (2031).
  • ESA’s EnVision mission (2030).

Scientific Payloads

The upcoming mission will carry a diverse array of scientific instruments aimed at enhancing our knowledge of Venus. Selected experiments include:

• Synthetic Aperture Radar: Will operate in L and S bands to image Venus’s surface and gather geological data.
• Thermal Camera: Designed to analyze temperature variations on both the surface and in the atmosphere.
• Interplanetary Dust Study: Investigates the flow of interplanetary dust and its effects on Venus’s environment.
• High-Energy Particle Experiment: Studies high-energy particles in the atmosphere, providing insights into atmospheric dynamics.
• Atmospheric Composition Study: Aims to examine the composition, structure, and thermal state of Venus’s atmosphere, contributing to understanding its climate and weather patterns.

This mission represents a significant step in India’s space exploration efforts, promising to broaden our understanding of Venus and its environmental dynamics.

OVERHAULING AGEING SIGNALLING SYSTEMS IN INDIAN RAILWAYS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

Indian Railways is undertaking a significant overhaul of its ageing signalling systems, which have surpassed their operational lifespan. This initiative aims to address safety concerns highlighted by recent train accidents, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of train operations.

Issues with Current Signalling Systems

• Ageing Infrastructure: Many signalling systems have outlived their recommended lifespan, leading to an increased risk of failures.
• Operational Impact: Deteriorating signals result in frequent disruptions, causing delays and heightening the risk of accidents.
• Recent Incidents: Major accidents, such as the Balasore triple train collision in June 2023, which resulted in 291 fatalities, have been attributed to signalling failures. Other incidents in the Waltair and Katihar divisions underscore the urgency of this issue.

Government Actions and Initiatives

• Replacement of Outdated Systems: The Indian Railways has begun replacing signalling systems that have exceeded their codal life to enhance safety in operations.
• PRIME Initiative: The “Plan for Reliability Improvement and Maintenance Effectiveness (PRIME)” has been launched to improve the reliability and maintenance of signalling systems.
• Staff Training: A critical focus on training personnel across various departments will ensure familiarity with new systems and adherence to safety protocols.
• Preventing Cable Cuts: Measures are being implemented to minimize frequent cable cuts along railway tracks, a major contributor to signalling failures.
• Safety as a Priority: The Railway Ministry emphasizes executing these upgrades independently to avoid disruption to ongoing infrastructure projects, ensuring rapid modernization.

Goals and Objectives

• Accident Reduction: The primary objective of these initiatives is to reduce the likelihood of accidents through improved signalling technology and refined operational procedures.
• Enhanced Reliability: By modernizing signalling systems, Indian Railways aims to bolster overall safety and efficiency in train operations.
• Long-Term Maintenance: The emphasis on maintenance effectiveness will ensure that new systems remain reliable over time.

Conclusion

The Indian Railways’ efforts to upgrade its signalling systems are crucial for enhancing safety and operational reliability. By focusing on modern technology, staff training, and preventative measures, the initiative aims to minimize the risks associated with outdated infrastructure, thereby ensuring safer journeys for passengers.

INVALIDATION OF THE FACT-CHECKING UNIT BY BOMBAY HIGH COURT

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Bombay High Court has declared the government’s Fact-Checking Unit (FCU) unconstitutional. This decision highlights significant concerns regarding the balance between combating misinformation and protecting freedom of speech in India.

Overview of the Fact-Checking Unit (FCU)

• Establishment: The FCU was created under the amended Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023.
• Powers Granted: It empowered the government to label any information related to its operations as “fake, false, or misleading.”
• Responsibilities of Intermediaries: Social media platforms were required to make “reasonable efforts” to prevent users from posting flagged content and to remove such content within 36 hours to maintain legal protections against third-party liability.

Court’s Rationale for Invalidation

• Unconstitutionality: On September 20, 2024, the Bombay High Court ruled that the FCU and its associated rules were unconstitutional and vague.
• Judicial Commentary: Justice Atul Sharachchandra Chandurkar noted that the rules displayed arbitrary characteristics, infringing on the fundamental right to freedom of speech as protected by Article 19(2) of the Constitution.
• Vague Terminology: The terms “fake, false, or misleading” were deemed overly broad, allowing for subjective interpretation and potential misuse by authorities.
• Lack of Safeguards: The absence of procedural protections raised concerns that the government could act as “judge in its own cause,” compromising impartiality.
• Chilling Effect: The court warned that the rules might deter intermediaries from hosting content, undermining their legal protections.

Government’s Potential Next Steps

• Appeal to the Supreme Court: The Union government is expected to challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court to maintain the FCU and the amended IT Rules.
• Rule Revision: It may be necessary for the government to refine the rules to include clearer definitions, procedural safeguards, and mechanisms for transparency and accountability.
• Consideration for State Units: Similar fact-checking units in states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka may need adjustments to comply with the ruling.
• Engagement with Stakeholders: Collaborating with media organizations and civil society could aid in developing guidelines that effectively balance misinformation control with freedom of speech protections.

Conclusion

The Bombay High Court’s ruling against the Fact-Checking Unit raises important questions about the regulation of online content and the safeguarding of constitutional rights. The government’s response will be crucial in shaping future policies around misinformation while respecting individual freedoms.

POCSO ACT AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY: RECENT SUPREME COURT DEVELOPMENTS

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

he Supreme Court of India has recently expanded the interpretation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act concerning child pornography. This move aims to strengthen legal provisions against child exploitation and enhance accountability.

Provisions of the POCSO Act on Child Pornography

• Definition of Child Pornography: The POCSO Act defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a child, including photographs, videos, and computer-generated images.
• Offences Under POCSO:
  • Using Children for Pornography: Section 14 penalizes the use of a child for pornographic purposes.
  • Possession of Pornographic Material: Section 15 addresses the storage or viewing of pornographic material involving a child.
  • Non-Reporting: Failing to report child pornography to designated authorities is punishable.
  • Transmission and Distribution: Transmitting, displaying, or distributing child pornography in any form is an offence.
  • Commercial Use: Possessing child pornography for commercial purposes is also illegal.
• IT Act Provisions: Section 67B of the Information Technology Act prohibits the use, transmission, and publication of obscene materials involving children.

Supreme Court Interpretations

• Reversal of High Court Judgement: The Supreme Court set aside the Madras High Court’s decision, establishing that any form of viewing, downloading, or storing child pornography attracts criminal liability.
• Terminology Change: The Court urged Parliament to replace the term “child pornography” with “Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material” (CSEAM) to better reflect the nature of the content.
• Inchoate Offences: Section 15 should also address the intent to commit offences related to child pornography, including preparatory actions.
• Expansion of Section 15(1): Failure to delete or report child pornography can be interpreted as intent to distribute such material.
• Constructive Possession: The definition of possession now includes cases where individuals control the material without physical possession.
• Obligation to Report: Individuals can only be absolved of liability if they report child pornography to authorities.
• Charges for Past Possession: Individuals can face charges for possessing child pornography even if they have deleted the material.
• Intent Consideration: The circumstances surrounding the storage or non-deletion of such material can indicate the accused’s intent.

Importance of Using CSEAM Terminology

• Clarity in Discussions: Using accurate terminology helps streamline discussions and research regarding child sexual exploitation.
• Reflecting Reality: CSEAM better captures the reality that these materials document instances of abuse rather than mere pornography.
• Highlighting Seriousness: The term emphasizes the gravity of the offences and avoids trivializing the abuse experienced by children.
• Preventing Trivialization: Using the term “pornography” can normalize and legitimize child sexual exploitation, as it is typically associated with consensual acts between adults.
• Victim Perspective: The term CSEAM acknowledges the victimization of children, distancing from the implications of imagined consent associated with pornography.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s rulings regarding the POCSO Act and child pornography underscore the need for robust legal frameworks to protect children from sexual exploitation. By redefining terminology and expanding legal interpretations, India aims to enhance child safety and accountability in handling such sensitive issues.

EPIGENETICS AND ITS ROLE IN HUMAN HEALTH

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: TIMES OF INDIA

Epigenetics refers to the study of how gene activity is regulated without changing the DNA sequence.

The term “epi-” means “above” or “on” in Greek, indicating factors beyond the genetic code.

Epigenetic changes are chemical modifications that affect whether a gene is turned on or off.

Key Points:

Epigenetic Modifications:

• These are changes attached to DNA but do not alter the DNA sequence.
• They control gene expression, determining which proteins are produced in cells.

Role in Cell Function:

• Epigenetics ensures that cells only produce proteins essential to their specific function (e.g., bone growth proteins are not produced in muscle cells).

Epigenome:

• The epigenome includes all the modifications that regulate gene activity within a cell.

Influences on the Epigenome:

• Environmental factors such as diet and pollutants can impact epigenetic patterns.

Inheritance and Errors:

• Epigenetic changes can be passed down through generations.
• Errors in the process may lead to abnormal gene activity, potentially causing genetic disorders like cancer or metabolic diseases.

Epigenetics plays a crucial role in human health by influencing how genes are expressed, which in turn affects many biological processes and disease outcomes.

SPICED SCHEME

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has approved the “Sustainability in spice sector through progressive, innovative and collaborative interventions for export development” (SPICED) scheme.

It focuses on boosting the export of spices and value-added spice products, while also improving spice quality and productivity across India.

Key Points:

Aim of the Scheme:

• To significantly enhance spice exports and value addition, with a focus on cardamom productivity and post-harvest quality upgrades for export.

Implementation Timeline:

The scheme will be implemented during the remaining term of the 15th Finance Commission, up to 2025-26.

Key Components:

• Mission Value Addition and Mission Clean and Safe Spices will drive innovation and sustainability.
• The promotion of GI (Geographical Indication) spices and support for entrepreneurship through Spice Incubation Centres is also included.

Target Beneficiaries:

• Focus on farmers groups, FPOs, SC/ST communities, and exporters from the North East region, with a preference for first-time applicants and SMEs.

Empowering Farmers:

• The scheme is designed to empower Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), especially in key spice-growing regions.

Transparency:

• Activities will be geo-tagged, and the status of funds, applications, and beneficiaries will be made available on the Spices Board’s website to ensure transparency.

The SPICED scheme aims to enhance sustainability, innovation, and export growth in India’s spice sector while supporting farmers and small businesses.

NANOZYMES

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Researchers at CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR-CLRI) have demonstrated that nanozymes can preserve collagen’s structure and enhance its resistance to enzymatic degradation.

 

Key Points:

What are Nanozymes?

• Nanozymes are artificial enzymes made from nanomaterials such as metals, metal oxides, and carbon-based materials.
• They mimic the catalytic activity of biological enzymes.

Advantages of Nanozymes:

• Nanozymes have higher stability under varying conditions like temperature and pH compared to biological enzymes.
• They are more durable, cost-effective, easy to produce on a large scale, and offer better recovery rates.

Applications of Nanozymes:

• Nanozymes have therapeutic applications in treating cancer, inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, bacterial and viral infections, and wound healing.
• They also help manage conditions related to Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).

What are Enzymes?

• Enzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body, aiding in metabolism.
• They are naturally present in living organisms and are also used in various manufactured products and foods.

Nanozymes offer a promising future in medical and industrial applications due to their enhanced stability, cost-effectiveness, and potential in treating various diseases.

INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT OF WILDLIFE HABITAT (IDWH) SCHEME

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: DOWN TO EARTH

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) for the 15th Finance Commission cycle.

• It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to conserve wildlife and their habitats.

   

Key Points:

Aim of the Scheme:

• Initially launched as “Assistance for the Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries” during the 11th Plan, IDWH now has expanded components to boost wildlife conservation through technological interventions.

Scope of the Scheme:

• The scheme benefits 55 tiger reserves, 33 elephant reserves, and 718 protected areas, including their zones of influence.

Major Components:

• Support to Protected Areas like National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Community Reserves.
• Protection of wildlife outside these protected areas.
• Recovery programs to save critically endangered species and habitats.

Sub-components of IDWH:

• Project Tiger: Focuses on conserving the Bengal tiger and supports Project Cheetah.
• Project Elephant: Aims to conserve elephants, reduce human-elephant conflicts, and improve the welfare of captive elephants.
• Development of Wildlife Habitat: Includes Project Dolphin and Project Lion to conserve these species and their habitats.

This scheme plays a vital role in enhancing wildlife conservation efforts and protecting India’s rich biodiversity.