TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The United States exercised its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution supporting full United Nations membership for Palestine.

EXPLANATION:

• This move highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the United States’ stance on the issue.
• The resolution received significant support from the 15-member Security Council, with 12 members voting in favor, while the United States opposed it.
• Two members abstained from the vote, reflecting a broad international consensus in favor of Palestine’s U.N. membership.
• Had the resolution passed, it would have recommended Palestine’s admission as the 194th member of the United Nations to the General Assembly.
• With approximately 140 countries already recognizing the state of Palestine, approval from the General Assembly was highly anticipated.

U.S. Opposition:

• The United States opposed the resolution, arguing that premature actions in New York, even with good intentions, would not lead to statehood for the Palestinian people.
• This stance reflects the U.S. government’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its approach to achieving a resolution.

Context of the Conflict:

• The veto comes amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly due to the recent war in Gaza, which has once again brought the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict to the forefront of international attention.
• The conflict, which has persisted for over 75 years, remains a complex and contentious issue in global politics.

International Response and Significance:

• The U.S. veto has elicited various reactions from the international community, with some expressing disappointment at the outcome.
• The resolution’s failure underscores the challenges and complexities of resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through diplomatic means and highlights the entrenched positions of key stakeholders.

Impact on Palestinian Statehood Efforts:

• This marks the second attempt by Palestine to seek full U.N. membership, reflecting ongoing efforts to achieve recognition and statehood on the international stage.
• Despite the setback, the Palestinian leadership is likely to continue pursuing diplomatic avenues to advance its aspirations for statehood.

United Nations Security Council (UNSC):

• The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the principal organs of the United Nations (UN), established to maintain international peace and security. It plays a critical role in addressing global conflicts, crises, and threats to international peace.
• Composition:The UNSC is composed of 15 member states, with five permanent members (P5) and ten non-permanent members. The P5, (United States, Russia, China, France & UK) also known as the “Great Powers,” have veto power, which allows them to block any substantive resolution, making their decisions particularly influential.
• Membership Rotation:Non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms, with five seats opening up each year. This rotation ensures that different regions of the world are represented over time.

Criteria for Membership: To become a member of the UNSC, a country must meet the following criteria:

• UN Membership:A nation must first be a member of the United Nations to be eligible for UNSC membership.
• Election:Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly through a two-thirds majority vote. The geographical distribution of seats is a key consideration, ensuring fair representation across regions.
• Rotation:Members serve two-year terms and can be re-elected, but there is a limit on consecutive terms. This rotation helps maintain diversity and a balance of interests.

Mandate and Functions: The UNSC’s mandate and functions are outlined in Chapter VI and Chapter VII of the UN Charter:

• Maintenance of International Peace and Security:The primary mandate of the UNSC is to address threats to international peace and security. It does so through various means, including conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and the authorization of the use of force when necessary.
• Conflict Resolution:The UNSC actively seeks to resolve international conflicts through diplomatic means, negotiation, and the promotion of peaceful settlements.
• Peacekeeping:It authorizes and oversees UN peacekeeping missions, which involve the deployment of military and civilian personnel to regions experiencing conflict to help maintain or restore peace.
• Imposition of Sanctions:The UNSC can impose economic and diplomatic sanctions against states that threaten international peace and security. These measures are intended to pressure nations into compliance with international norms.
• Authorization of Use of Force:In cases of imminent threats to international peace, the UNSC can authorize the use of force, which may include military intervention, to restore or maintain peace. This is a controversial but necessary function to respond to some crises.
• Supervision of Armistices and Agreements:The UNSC monitors and supervises armistices and agreements to ensure compliance by the parties involved.
• Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Action:The UNSC plays a role in protecting civilians in conflict zones and promoting humanitarian assistance.
• Recommendations on General Principles of Cooperation:The UNSC can make recommendations on principles of cooperation and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-vetoes-resolution-backing-full-un-membership-for-palestine/article68081442.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Eritrea emerges as the country with the poorest plastic waste management practices globally, with a staggering 97% of plastic waste being mismanaged.

EXPLANATION:

• This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for comprehensive waste management strategies in the country.
• The Plastic Overshoot Day (POD) Report sheds light on the global plastic pollution crisis.
• The report revealed that 81 countries, including 44 African nations and India, contribute significantly to plastic pollution due to poor waste management practices.
• The consequences of mismanaged plastic waste are profound, with environmental pollution and adverse effects on ecosystems and human health being major concerns.
• The report underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges to mitigate the impact on the planet.
• The report provides insights into the capacity of various countries to manage plastic waste, highlighting projections for plastic waste generation and mismanagement trends.
• Despite slight improvements in some areas, the overall volume of plastic waste continues to increase globally.

India’s Progress and Challenges:

• India’s rank in the Mismanaged Waste Index (MWI) has improved since 2023, indicating progress in waste management efforts.
• However, with 68.62% of plastic waste still being mismanaged, there is room for further improvement.
• The report emphasizes the need for continued investment in waste management infrastructure and programs like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Higher MWI indicates poor management of plastics waste generated. For example, In Rwanda, 93.4 percent of generated plastics waste is being mismanaged; 68.62 per cent of generated plastics waste is being mismanaged in India

Global Plastic Waste Generation:

• The report projects a significant increase in global plastic waste generation between 2021 and 2024, highlighting the magnitude of the challenge.
• It warns of the potential environmental and health impacts of this growing trend, urging policymakers to take proactive measures to address the plastic waste crisis.

Recommendations for Action:

• The report advocates for a systemic overhaul of waste management practices, emphasizing the importance of ratifying and implementing the United Nations Plastic Treaty.
• It outlines 15 global rules for policymakers to consider, including the need for significant investments in waste management infrastructure and programs.

Role of International Negotiations:

• With the fourth round of negotiations for the United Nations Plastic Treaty approaching, the report stresses the importance of translating words into action.
• It calls for a concerted effort from global leaders to address the plastic waste crisis and implement effective solutions.

Steps taken by the govt.:

• Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2022: It prohibits the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of several single-use plastic items as of July 1, 2022. It has also mandated Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) that incorporates circularity by making manufacturers of products responsible for collecting and processing their products upon the end of the products’ lifetime.
• Project REPLAN: Project REPLAN which stands for REducing PLastic in Nature has been launched by Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) aims to reduce consumption of plastic bags by providing a more sustainable alternative.
• Ban on single-use plastics: India has banned the production, use, and sale of single-use plastics such as bags, cups, plates, cutlery, and straws in many states.
• National Dashboard on Elimination of Single Use Plastic and Plastic Waste Management: India launched a nationwide awareness campaign on Single Use Plastics on World Environment Day in June 2022. A mobile app for Single Use Plastics Grievance Redressal was also launched to empower citizens to check sale/usage/manufacturing of SUP in their area and tackle the plastic menace.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/eritrea-fares-worst-in-the-world-in-plastic-waste-management-shows-plastic-overshoot-day-report-95651

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

THE CONTEXT: The National Framework of Early Childhood Stimulation 2024, titled ‘Navchetana’, emphasizes the critical importance of early childhood learning, beginning from birth to the age of three.

EXPLANATION:

• This framework aims to guide parents, anganwadi staff, and ASHA workers in conducting age-appropriate activities to stimulate children’s development across various domains.
• The framework document has been developed by an internal committee comprising representatives from key ministries and organizations, including the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Education, and civil society organizations.
• Titled ‘Navchetana’, the curriculum aligns with the principles of the National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing a continuum of learning.
• To facilitate the successful implementation of the curriculum, staff in 14 lakh anganwadis will undergo training on the activities outlined in the framework.
• This training aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage children effectively in stimulating activities that promote holistic development.
• The activity-based curriculum emphasizes various forms of engagement, including talking, playing, moving, listening to music, and sensory stimulation.
• These activities are designed to target developmental milestones across different domains, such as early language, emergent literacy, and numeracy.
• The framework underscores the critical period of the first three years of a child’s life, during which 75% of brain development occurs.
• It provides detailed information on the importance of early brain development and offers step-by-step instructions for caregivers and frontline workers on conducting stimulating activities.

Implementation Strategies:

• Caregivers are encouraged to actively engage with children by capturing their attention, communicating effectively, and responding to their cues.
• The curriculum advocates for introducing age-appropriate play activities, following the child’s lead, and providing positive reinforcement to encourage learning and exploration.

Age-Specific Activities:

• The curriculum comprises 36 sets of activities tailored to children from birth to 36 months.
• These activities evolve over time to align with the child’s developmental stage and include simple tasks such as reaching for objects, imitating sounds, and more complex activities like sorting objects and identifying colors.

Identification of Developmental Delays:

• One of the key objectives of the framework is to enable early detection of developmental delays.
• Caregivers are trained to recognize signs of delay and adapt activities accordingly, ensuring that children receive appropriate support and intervention as needed.

Anganwadi:

• Anganwadi is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented by the States / UTs which serves as a rural child and maternal care centre in India.
• It was started by the Government of India In 1975 as part of the Integrated Child Development Services program to combat child hunger and malnutrition.
• Anganwadi centres provide a package of six services: supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, immunisation, health check-up, nutrition and health education, and referral services.
• The beneficiaries under the Anganwadi Services Scheme are identified on the basis of Aadhaar.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/activity-based-curriculum-drawn-up-for-anganwadis/article68076518.ece#:~:text=The%20curriculum%20involves%20talking%2C%20playing,and%20emergent%20literacy%20and%20numeracy%E2%80%9D

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The ongoing bird flu outbreak, which began in 2020, has sparked significant concern due to its spread to various species, including humans.

EXPLANATION:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the extraordinarily high mortality rate associated with human infections.
• The outbreak has resulted in the deaths of tens of millions of poultry worldwide, with wild birds, as well as land and marine mammals, also being affected.
• The spread of the H5N1 strain to new species, including humans, raises serious alarm within the global health community.

Concerns Raised by WHO:

• The A(H5N1) strain of bird flu has become a global zoonotic pandemic, infecting not only ducks and chickens but also various mammals.
• Of particular concern is the potential for the virus to evolve and gain the ability to infect humans, leading to human-to-human transmission.
• While human-to-human transmission has not been observed, individuals who have been infected through contact with animals face an extraordinarily high mortality rate.
• WHO reports a case fatality rate of 52% from 2003 to April 1, 2024, across 23 countries.
• The recent infection of cows and goats by the H5N1 virus is a surprising development, as these animals were not previously thought to be susceptible to this type of influenza.
• This expansion of the host range brings the virus closer to humans, increasing the risk of spillover.
• A person in Texas recently tested positive for bird flu after exposure to dairy cattle, marking only the second case of human infection in the United States.
• This incident highlights the potential for transmission from infected mammals to humans, posing a significant public health threat.

Need for Vigilance and Preparedness:

• WHO emphasizes the importance of enhancing monitoring efforts to track human infections and detect any signs of adaptation in the virus.
• Rapid diagnosis and response capabilities at regional and national levels are crucial for containing potential outbreaks and preventing human-to-human transmission.

Research and Development Efforts:

• Efforts are underway to develop vaccines and therapeutics specifically targeting the H5N1 virus.
• Ensuring equitable access to these medical interventions is essential for effective response and containment measures globally.

Bird flu and H5N1:

• Bird flu, also known as avian flu, refers to an infectious viral illness that mainly infects and spreads among poultry and some wild birds.
• There are different strains of bird flu virus, which have been circulating for a very long time among at least 100 bird species, including wild waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, without much harming them.
• From time to time, a form of the flu virus jumps from wild birds to poultry farms, and replicates in cramped warehouses of farmed birds.
• It then quickly evolves into a highly pathogenic flu virus that causes a larger wave of illness and death than usual among birds.
• The currently circulating type of H5N1 is one such highly pathogenic flu virus.
• It has “descended from a virus that caused an outbreak on a goose farm in Guangdong, China, in 1996.
• That virus — one of a type of virus known as H5N1 — was highly pathogenic and killed more than 40 per cent of the farm birds it infected.
• The new version of H5N1 first emerged in Europe in 2020 and then rapidly reached Europe, Africa, and Asia.
• By late 2021, it had spread to North America and in the fall of 2022, it appeared in South America.
• In February 2024, the virus stormed through mainland Antarctica.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/human-cases-of-bird-flu-an-enormous-concern-who/article68080029.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Reports of whooping cough outbreaks have surfaced in various countries across the globe, including China, the Philippines, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, the United States, Australia, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

EXPLANATION:

• China, in particular, has seen a dramatic increase in cases, with a more than 20-fold rise reported in January and February compared to the previous year.

Pertussis:

• Whooping cough, scientifically known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
• It primarily affects the respiratory system and is characterized by severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound when trying to inhale.
• Whooping cough poses a significant threat, especially to young children and infants, with potential fatal outcomes.
• Chinese authorities have confirmed 32,380 cases and 13 deaths, emphasizing its impact on infant and child mortality globally.
• However, it’s crucial to note that whooping cough can affect individuals of all ages, particularly when immunity wanes over time.

Factors Contributing to Outbreaks:

• Weakening of Vaccine Long-Term Effects:
  • Researchers point to the weakening of the DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) vaccine’s long-term efficacy as a major contributing factor to the resurgence of whooping cough.
  • This phenomenon is particularly evident in China, where the vaccine’s effectiveness appears to diminish over time, leaving individuals susceptible to infection.
• Impact of Outdoor Air Pollution:
  • Another significant factor implicated in the resurgence of whooping cough is the influence of outdoor air pollution, particularly in countries like China.
  • Researchers suggest that exposure to pollutants may exacerbate respiratory illnesses and compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections like pertussis.
• Bacterial Mutation:
  • Recent observations indicate that the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, responsible for causing whooping cough, has undergone mutations, particularly notable in Australia.
  • These mutations could potentially render existing vaccines less effective against certain strains of the bacteria, contributing to increased infection rates.

Cyclical Nature of Outbreaks:

• While whooping cough outbreaks typically exhibit cyclical patterns, occurring every three to five years, the current trend suggests a sustained increase in incidences over the past two decades.
• This indicates a more complex interplay of factors beyond natural cyclical fluctuations.

Regional Outbreaks:

• Several countries have reported significant spikes in whooping cough cases, reflecting a global resurgence of the disease.
• Spain experienced a substantial outbreak with over 8,200 cases by March 2024, while the Czech Republic recorded its highest number of cases in over 70 years, surpassing 6,300 cases this year.

Vaccination Efforts:

• Vaccination remains the primary strategy for preventing whooping cough. The DTP vaccine, recommended for children, and Tdap vaccines for adults play a crucial role in reducing the incidence and severity of the disease.
• However, the global challenge of vaccine hesitancy and missed doses poses significant obstacles to achieving optimal immunization coverage.

DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) Vaccine:                       

• The DTaP vaccine is administered to children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age to provide immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• This activity outlines the DTaP vaccine’s indications, actions, and potential adverse effects as a valuable agent against these diseases.
• This activity will highlight the mechanism of action, administration, adverse effects, contraindications, and monitoring pertinent for healthcare team members in managing vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Its objectives are:
  • Review the pathophysiologies of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
  • Identify the components of the DTaP vaccine, dosing, and site of injection.
  • Summarize the recommendations of when to administer the DTaP vaccine.
  • Outline the interprofessional team strategies for improving care coordination and communication to advance immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis and improve outcomes.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/video/health/whooping-cough-outbreak-reported-around-the-world-95628

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: Recently, Sweden became the 38th country to sign the Artemis Accords, a significant step in international space cooperation.

EXPLANATION:

• The Accords, initiated by NASA and the US Department of State in 2020, aim to establish a framework of non-binding agreements to govern activities in outer space.
• NASA Administrator welcomed Sweden’s accession to the Artemis Accords, emphasizing the shared commitment to exploring space openly, transparently, and peacefully.
• The inclusion of Sweden expands the coalition of nations dedicated to advancing space exploration while adhering to fundamental principles and norms.

Artemis Accords

• Artemis Accords are established by the U.S. State Department and NASA with seven other founding members: Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom in 2020 for setting common principles to govern civil exploration and use of outer space, the moon, Mars, comets, and asteroids, for peaceful purposes.
• The Artemis Accords build upon foundational treaties such as the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and reinforce commitments to key agreements like the Registration Convention and Rescue and Return Agreement.
• Additionally, the Accords promote responsible behavior in space, including the public release of scientific data, to facilitate collaboration and transparency among signatory nations.
• Sweden’s endorsement of the Artemis Accords reflects a broader trend of international engagement in space exploration.
• With 38 signatories, including prominent spacefaring nations like India and Japan, the Accords serve as a platform for fostering cooperation and coordination in space endeavors.
• The emergence of a new space race characterized by diverse participants underscores the evolving dynamics of global space exploration.
• While the United States maintains its leadership in space exploration, China’s rapid advancements highlight its growing prominence in the field.
• Conversely, Russia faces challenges in replicating the successes of its Soviet-era space program, as evidenced by recent mission failures and issues with its contributions to the International Space Station.

Rising Players: India and Japan

• India and Japan have emerged as formidable contenders in the contemporary space race, marked by successful lunar missions and ambitious exploration objectives.
• Both countries have demonstrated capabilities in soft-landing spacecraft on the Moon, positioning themselves as key players in shaping the future of space exploration.

Implications for the Artemis Accords

• The participation of leading spacefaring nations like the United States, India, and Japan in the Artemis Accords underscores the Accords’ significance as a multilateral framework for space governance.
• By aligning with principles of transparency, cooperation, and responsible conduct, signatory nations pave the way for collaborative exploration and scientific advancement in outer space.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/sweden-signs-artemis-accords-9277354/

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: The occurrence of extreme weather events in distant locations like Mumbai and Dubai on April 16, 2024, underscores the influence of a vast anticyclone spanning the northern Indian Ocean.

EXPLANATION:

• This meteorological phenomenon, characterized by high atmospheric pressure and descending air masses, exerts profound effects on regional weather patterns, exacerbating conditions such as floods and heatwaves on its periphery.

Mumbai’s Humid Heatwave

• In Mumbai, the Konkan coast of India experienced a stifling humid heatwave, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels.
• An independent weather forecaster noted a significant temperature rise of 4.7°C within 24 hours, culminating in a scorching maximum temperature of 39°C on April 16.
• Moreover, elevated humidity levels compounded the discomfort, contributing to a wet bulb temperature of 29.3°C, surpassing the threshold for perceived heat.

Factors Driving Mumbai’s Heatwave

• The intensification of Mumbai’s heatwave can be attributed to various factors, including the influence of the anticyclone.
• By inhibiting the flow of cooling sea breezes, the anticyclone disrupted nocturnal temperature regulation, leading to elevated night temperatures.
• Additionally, the transition from El Niño to La Niña, coupled with warming trends in West Asia and the Arabian Sea, contributed to a pronounced heat buildup, exacerbating thermal discomfort among residents.

Implications for Public Health and Safety

• The escalation of heat-related risks underscores the importance of timely and effective public health interventions.
• While wet bulb temperature serves as a critical metric for assessing heat stress, communicating heat advisories and implementing mitigation measures are imperative for safeguarding vulnerable populations.
• Strategies such as establishing hydration centers, offering free public transportation, and disseminating early warnings can mitigate the adverse impacts of heatwaves.

Dubai’s Deluge and Flooding

• Conversely, Dubai experienced an unprecedented deluge characterized by torrential rainfall, inundating major thoroughfares and infrastructure.
• The city bore witness to an astonishing accumulation of rainfall, surpassing the annual average in a single day.
• Furthermore, neighboring Emirates like Sharjah and Abu Dhabi grappled with excessive precipitation, marking a historic event in the region’s meteorological record.

Anticyclone’s Role in Extreme Rainfall

• The expansive anticyclone spanning the northern Indian Ocean played a pivotal role in exacerbating the rainfall event over Dubai and surrounding areas.
• By impeding the progression of weather systems, the anticyclone fostered conditions conducive to intense precipitation and thunderstorms on its fringes.
• Additionally, interactions between the anticyclone and a western disturbance over West Asia likely amplified the severity of the storm system, exacerbating rainfall intensity.

Contributing Factors and Controversies

• While the anticyclone served as a primary driver of extreme weather, other factors contributed to the complexity of the meteorological event.
• Cloud seeding operations conducted by the National Centre of Meteorology of the UAE and the presence of excessive dust in the region may have accentuated rainfall intensity.
• However, discerning the precise contributions of natural and anthropogenic influences remains a subject of debate and scrutiny.

Impacts and Preparedness Measures

• The inundation of Dubai and neighboring regions underscores the vulnerability of urban infrastructure to extreme weather events.
• As cities confront the escalating risks of climate change, enhancing preparedness and resilience measures becomes paramount.
• From improving drainage systems to bolstering emergency response capabilities, proactive interventions are essential for mitigating the socio-economic impacts of flooding and safeguarding public safety.

Anticyclone:

• An anticyclone is a weather phenomenon defined as a large-scale circulation of winds around a central region of high atmospheric pressure.
• It rotates clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counter clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere (opposite to a cyclone).
• Effects of surface-based anticyclones include clearing skies as well as cooler, drier air. Fog can also form overnight within a region of higher pressure.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/how-a-massive-anticyclone-caused-floods-in-dubai-and-humid-heat-in-mumbai-on-the-other-side-of-the-arabian-sea-95613

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The NASA Mars Sample Return Program, an ambitious initiative aimed at bringing Martian rock samples back to Earth, has encountered significant challenges in terms of both cost and timeline.

EXPLANATION:

• Spearheaded by the Perseverance Rover (nicknamed Percy), this program aims to establish a groundbreaking precedent of retrieving samples from another planet.
• However, recent assessments have highlighted substantial financial hurdles and prolonged timelines, prompting calls for reevaluation and innovation.

Initial Goals and Challenges

• The Mars Sample Return Program was initiated with the deployment of ten rock sample tubes by the Perseverance Rover in 2023.
• These samples represent a pioneering step towards scientific exploration beyond Earth.
• However, the program’s trajectory has been marred by escalating costs and delays, prompting criticism and calls for reassessment.

Financial Implications and Budget Constraints

• NASA Administrator has voiced concerns over the program’s projected cost of $11 billion, deeming it excessively high.
• This financial burden, exacerbated by budget constraints and subsequent cuts, has raised questions regarding the program’s feasibility and sustainability within the agency’s fiscal framework.
• Moreover, the extended timeline for sample return, projected to extend until 2040, has been deemed unacceptable, particularly in light of upcoming Mars exploration missions involving human astronauts.

Independent Review Findings

• An independent review conducted in the previous year underscored the program’s formidable challenges, citing unrealistic budget and schedule expectations from its inception.
• The estimated cost of $3 billion in 2020 has ballooned significantly, necessitating a reevaluation of budgetary allocations and resource management strategies.

Search for Innovative Solutions

• In response to these challenges, NASA is actively exploring alternative approaches to streamline the Mars Sample Return Program.
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders and industry partners, the agency aims to develop a new plan leveraging innovative technologies and cost-effective methodologies.
• By soliciting architectural proposals and harnessing proven expertise, NASA seeks to optimize mission complexity while mitigating financial risks.

Visionary Science and Strategic Priorities

• There has been emphasizes on the program’s commitment to visionary science and transformative discoveries.
• By integrating decades of mission experience and independent reviews, NASA aims to propel the Mars Sample Return Program forward, unlocking crucial insights into Martian geology, astrobiology, and planetary evolution.

Future Collaborations and Potential Stakeholders

• While the current plan involves collaboration between NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), alternative strategies may be considered to enhance the program’s efficiency and efficacy.
• SpaceX CEO Elon Musk’s proposition of utilizing the Starship spacecraft for Mars sample return underscores the potential for private-sector involvement in space exploration endeavors.
• However, logistical and technical challenges associated with Starship’s readiness and operational capabilities necessitate cautious consideration.

Evolving Strategies and Technological Advancements

• As the Mars Sample Return Program navigates its complexities, stakeholders must remain adaptable to emerging technologies and strategic partnerships.
• While the roadmap for sample retrieval may undergo revisions, the overarching objective of advancing scientific knowledge and exploration remains paramount.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/nasa-mars-sample-return-program-9273840/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: Central government tweaks the green credit programme norms.

EXPLANATION:

• The Green Credit Programme (GCP) aims to incentivize environmental positive actions through a market-based mechanism, with a focus on restoring degraded forest ecosystems.
• The recent policy tweaks by the Union Environment Ministry seek to clarify and enhance the effectiveness of the program.
• The Environment Ministry emphasizes the importance of prioritizing ecosystem restoration over mere tree planting for financial gains.
• This shift underscores the need for holistic approaches to ecosystem management and highlights the program’s commitment to ecological sustainability.
• Thirteen states have already identified 387 parcels of degraded forest land, covering nearly 10,983 hectares, for restoration under the GCP.
• The involvement of both public and private entities, including major companies like Indian Oil and Coal India, demonstrates broad support for the initiative.

Operational Mechanisms

• Under the program, organizations and individuals can invest in afforestation projects on degraded forest lands through the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE).
• The planted trees are evaluated after two years, with each tree potentially earning one ‘green credit.’
• These credits can be utilized for compliance with forest laws or corporate social responsibility requirements.

Tradeability of Green Credits

• While the current credits are non-tradeable, the program’s future trajectory indicates a shift towards tradability, aligning with market-based principles.
• Tradable green credits could provide additional incentives for participation and facilitate greater flexibility in meeting environmental obligations.

Guidelines for Restoration

• The Ministry has issued guidelines for states to calculate restoration costs, allowing flexibility in defining reforestation criteria.
• This approach acknowledges the diversity of degraded forest landscapes and encourages the use of indigenous species to promote ecosystem resilience.

Challenges and Considerations

• Several challenges remain, including quantifying the contribution of shrubs and grasses to green credits and determining the equivalence between green and carbon credits.
• These complexities highlight the need for ongoing refinement and adaptation of the program.

Green Credit Programme (GCP):

• Green Credit Program (GCP) has been notified on 13th October 2023.
• The Green Credits Programme (GCP) is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in India.
• It is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to incentivize voluntary environmental actions by generating and trading green credits across diverse sectors, by various stakeholders like individuals, communities, companies etc.
• Green credits are tradable units that represent a specified environmental activity and its positive impact on the environment.
• The GCP’s governance framework is supported by an inter-ministerial Steering Committee.
• The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) serves as the GCP Administrator, responsible for program implementation, management, monitoring, and operation.
• In its initial phase, the GCP focuses on two key activities:
  • Water conservation and
  • Afforestation
• Draft methodologies for awarding Green Credits have been developed and will be notified for stakeholder consultation.
• These methodologies set benchmarks for each activity/process, to ensure environmental impact and fungibility across sectors.
• The Green Credit Registry and trading platform, being developed by ICFRE along with experts, would facilitate the registration and thereafter, the buying and selling of Green Credits.
• The Administrator will grant a Green Credit certificate which will be tradable on the green credit platform.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-tweaks-green-credit-programme-norms/article68076591.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The Aral Sea, once the fourth-largest lake globally, underwent a catastrophic decline in the 1960s due to Soviet irrigation projects, resulting in the emergence of the Aralkum Desert.

EXPLANATION:

• This ecological disaster has far-reaching consequences, impacting both local residents and global climate patterns.

Dust Emissions and Hazards

• The desiccation of the Aral Sea has led to a significant increase in dust emissions, with the desert becoming a substantial source of hazardous particulate matter.
• Dust emissions have nearly doubled over the past 30 years, posing health risks to residents in the region and affecting air quality in nearby capitals such as Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Implications for Global Climate

• The dust from the Aralkum Desert not only affects local environments but also has implications for global climate dynamics.
• Dust particles containing residues of fertilizers and pesticides exacerbate the melting of glaciers, contributing to the region’s water crisis.
• Moreover, the dust alters atmospheric conditions, influencing radiative heating and cooling processes.

Research Findings and Methodology

• Researchers from the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS) and Freie Universität Berlin utilized the COSMO-MUSCAT atmospheric dust model to study the effects of Aralkum dust.
• Their findings indicate that dust events occur episodically throughout the year, with notable impacts on surface temperatures and atmospheric pressure.

Radiative Effects and Weather Patterns

• The radiative effects of dust vary depending on factors such as time of day, season, and mineralogical properties.
• While dust can cool the surface during the day by dimming sunlight, it contributes to warming at night by re-emitting heat radiation.
• Changes in atmospheric pressure caused by dust influence weather patterns, intensifying the Siberian High in winter and weakening the Central Asian warm low in summer.

Broader Environmental Concerns

• The Aral Sea’s desiccation mirrors similar environmental crises in West and Central Asia, such as the shrinking of Lake Urmia in Iran and Lake Hamoun on the Iran-Afghanistan border.
• These ‘dust bowls’ not only affect local climates but also have global ramifications, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive research and mitigation strategies.

Aral Sea:

• It stands at the boundary between Kazakhstan to the north and Uzbekistan to the south.
• It was once a large saltwater lake of Central Asia and the world’s fourth largest body of inland water.
• The remnants of it nestle in the climatically inhospitable heart of Central Asia, to the east of the Caspian Sea.
• The Aral Sea depression was formed toward the end of the Neogene Period (which lasted from about 23 to 2.6 million years ago).
• It was made by waters from the Syr Darya and the Amu Darya rivers that were dependent on glacial melt.
• It drains Uzbekistan and portions of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, and Kyrgyzstan.
• Climate: The Aral Sea is located within the harsh climate region of Central Asia. The area experiences a desert-continental climate, characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and varying diurnal air temperature.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/silent-chernobyl-dry-aral-sea-has-made-central-asia-dustier-with-impacts-on-global-climate-says-study-95627

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently announced the onset of the fourth global coral bleaching event, marking a significant threat to coral reefs worldwide.

EXPLANATION:

• This event, fueled by record ocean temperatures, underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and its impact on marine ecosystems.
• Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel symbiotic algae in response to environmental stressors such as elevated temperatures, light exposure, or nutrient imbalances.
• This expulsion causes corals to turn white, signaling distress. While corals can survive bleaching events, prolonged stress increases their vulnerability to mortality.

Frequency and Severity

• The current bleaching event is the fourth global occurrence on record and the second within the past decade, highlighting the escalating threat posed by climate change.
• NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch (CRW) monitors heat stress levels, predicting and tracking bleaching events using satellite data.
• Since early 2023, extensive bleaching has been observed across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean basins, affecting coral reefs in various regions.

Global Impact

• The widespread bleaching documented across diverse geographic locations, including Florida, the Caribbean, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, and the Red Sea, underscores the global scale of the crisis.
• Coral reefs serve as critical ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, coastal protection, and fisheries.
• The degradation of coral reefs due to bleaching poses direct threats to livelihoods, food security, and economies dependent on marine resources.

Long-term Implications

• Climate models predict an increase in the frequency and severity of bleaching events as ocean temperatures continue to rise.
• This trend aligns with the broader pattern of climate change-induced disruptions to marine ecosystems.
• Addressing the underlying drivers of climate change and implementing mitigation strategies are crucial for safeguarding coral reefs and the communities reliant on them.

Scientific Monitoring and Conservation Efforts

• NOAA’s efforts in monitoring and predicting coral bleaching events play a vital role in informing conservation strategies and management practices.
• By utilizing advanced satellite technology and collaborating with international partners, NOAA aims to enhance our understanding of coral reef dynamics and mitigate the impacts of bleaching events.

Coral Reef:

• Coral reefs are vital ecosystems built by coral polyps, which have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae.
• When water temperatures rise, corals expel these algae, leading to bleaching—a phenomenon where corals lose their vibrant colors and eventually die.
• Ocean acidification exacerbates bleaching by reducing calcium mineral availability for coral exoskeletons.

Types of coral reefs in India:

• Fringing reefs
  • Fringing reefs evolve and develop near the continent and remain close to the coastline. These reefs are separated from the coastline by small, shallow lagoons. They are the most commonly found reefs in the world.
• Barrier reefs
  • Barrier reefs are found offshore on the continental shelf. They usually run parallel to the coastline at some distance. A deep and wide lagoon is located between the coastline and the barrier reef.
• Atolls
  • Atolls are formed on mid-oceanic ridges. They are shaped circularly or elliptically and are surrounded by seas on all four sides and have shallow waters in the center called a lagoon.
• All the three major reef types occur in India. The mainland coast of India has two widely separated areas containing reefs: the Gulf of Kachchh in the northwest, which has some of the most northerly reefs in the world, and Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar in the southeast.
• In addition to these, there are patches of reef growth on the West Coast, for example, coral reefs at Malvan.
• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have fringing reefs around many islands, and a long barrier reef (329 km) on the west coast.
• Little is known about these reefs, which may be the most diverse and pristine reefs in India. The Lakshadweep also has extensive reefs but these are also poorly explored.

SOURCE: https://lifestyle.livemint.com/smart-living/environment/coral-reefs-global-bleaching-event-noaa-climate-change-111713248896027.html

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The Hubble tension, a perplexing dilemma in cosmology, arises from contradictory estimates of the universe’s rate of expansion obtained through different measurement methods. Despite extensive efforts to reconcile these discrepancies, the mystery persists, hinting at potential flaws in our fundamental understanding of the cosmos.

EXPLANATION:

• Cosmologists employ two primary methods to measure the universe’s expansion rate: the cosmic distance ladder and the analysis of the cosmic microwave background (CMB).
• While both approaches are theoretically sound, they yield markedly different estimates of the expansion rate, exacerbating the Hubble tension.

Challenges with the ΛCDM Model

• The prevailing cosmological model, Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM
• ), has been instrumental in explaining various phenomena, including the universe’s expansion and the distribution of galaxies.
• However, mounting evidence suggests that this model may be inadequate to resolve the Hubble tension, prompting calls for alternative frameworks.

Radical Explanations and Ongoing Debates

• Recent studies, such as those published in Monthly Notices of The Royal Astronomical Society and The Astrophysical Journal Letters, have explored radical explanations for the Hubble tension, including the possibility of fundamental flaws in the ΛCDM model.
• However, despite advancements in observational techniques, the origins of the tension remain elusive, fueling ongoing debates within the cosmological community.

The Flatness of the Universe

• Cosmologists classify the universe’s geometry based on its curvature: open, closed, or flat.
• Recent observations, particularly of the cosmic microwave background (CMB), suggest that the universe is flat, meaning parallel lines remain parallel indefinitely.
• This finding underscores the precision of modern cosmological measurements and provides valuable insights into the universe’s fundamental properties.

The Role of Observational Techniques

• Advanced observational tools, such as NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), play a pivotal role in refining measurements of cosmic phenomena.
• By leveraging near-infrared radiation and overcoming challenges like crowding noise, JWST offers unprecedented clarity in studying celestial objects, including Cepheid variable stars crucial for the cosmic distance ladder.

Implications and Future Directions

• The resolution of the Hubble tension holds profound implications for our understanding of the universe’s evolution and fundamental laws of physics.
• As researchers continue to grapple with this enigma, the pursuit of alternative models and novel observational strategies remains paramount.
• Ultimately, unraveling the mysteries of cosmic expansion promises to deepen our comprehension of the cosmos and our place within it.

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE:

• The James Webb Space Telescopeis the largest, most powerful space telescope ever built.
• Thetelescope will be able to capture images of some of the first galaxies ever formed.
• It will also be able to observe objects in our solar system from Mars outward, look inside dust clouds to see where new stars and planets are forming and examine the atmospheres of planets orbiting other stars.
• The Webb telescope’scameras are sensitive to heat from the Sun. Webb has a sunshield to protect its instruments and mirrors.
• The James Webb Space Telescopesees the universe in light that is invisible to human eyes. This light is called infrared radiation. The James Webb Space Telescope will use its infrared cameras to see through dust in the universe.
• It took deep field images of Pandora’s cluster in 2022.

Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM):

• The Lambda-CDM, Lambda cold dark matter, or ΛCDM model is a mathematical model of the Big Bang theory with three major components:
  1. a cosmological constant denoted by lambda (Λ) associated with dark energy
  2. the postulated cold dark matter denoted by CDM
  3. ordinary matter
• It is referred to as the standard model of Big Bang cosmology because it is the simplest model that provides a reasonably good account of:
  • the existence and structure of the cosmic microwave background
  • the large-scale structure in the distribution of galaxies
  • the observed abundances of hydrogen (including deuterium), helium, and lithium
  • the accelerating expansion of the universe observed in the light from distant galaxies and supernovae

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/hubble-tension-cosmic-distance-ladder-riess-webb-telescope/article68064403.ece

TAG: GS 1: ART AND CULTURE

THE CONTEXT: Political parties, particularly the BJP, have attempted to appropriate Thiruvalluvar’s legacy for their agendas, aiming to establish cultural centers and promote Indian traditions globally. However, such attempts have sparked controversies, including debates over Thiruvalluvar’s religious identity and the portrayal of his iconic image.

EXPLANATION:

• Competing claims over Thiruvalluvar’s legacy have fueled political tensions in Tamil Nadu.
• Controversies erupted when the BJP depicted Thiruvalluvar in saffron robes, triggering backlash from opposing factions who accused the party of distorting the saint’s image.
• The BJP’s assertions of Thiruvalluvar’s Hindu identity have been met with skepticism, with scholars pointing to historical ambiguity and the saint’s transcendence beyond religious labels.
• The tug-of-war over Thiruvalluvar’s legacy reflects deeper political dynamics in Tamil Nadu, where identity and cultural heritage are fiercely guarded.
• Both Dravidian and Hindutva groups have sought to co-opt Thiruvalluvar to bolster their narratives, underscoring the significance of cultural symbols in shaping political discourse.

Thiruvalluvar:

• Thiruvalluvar, the legendary saint-poet attributed to the timeless verses of Thirukkural, holds a revered status among Tamils, transcending barriers of caste and religion.
• In recent years, political factions, notably the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have sought to leverage his legacy for their agendas, sparking debates and controversies in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
• Thiruvalluvar’s historical identity remains shrouded in uncertainty, with debates over his period of existence and religious affiliation.
• While some accounts place him in the 3rd or 4th century CE, others suggest a later timeline, around the 8th or 9th century.
• Additionally, interpretations of his religious background vary, with claims of Hindu, Jain, or Dravidian affiliations.
• Regardless of historical uncertainties, Thiruvalluvar holds an esteemed position in Tamil culture as a moral icon and philosopher-poet.
• The Thirukkural, a collection of 1,330 couplets, serves as a guiding light for Tamil households, emphasizing moral values and ethical principles in daily life.
• Thiruvalluvar’s teachings resonate deeply with Tamils, providing a cultural anchor and fostering a sense of identity.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-history/thiruvalluvar-bjp-manifesto-tamil-nadu-9271690/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Until recently, global conservation efforts predominantly focused on “protected areas” (PA) and “other effective area-based conservation measures” (OECM), largely overlooking indigenous territories’ contributions to ecosystem preservation.

EXPLANATION:

• However, recognizing the intrinsic value of these territories, there has been a shift towards incorporating indigenous lands into conservation discussions.
• The protection of Indigenous Peoples’ territories is crucial for biodiversity conservation and meeting global targets, yet progress in this area has been sluggish.
• As discussions unfold at the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, it becomes evident that despite increasing recognition, indigenous territories are not being safeguarded at the necessary pace.

Implications for Biodiversity Conservation

• The failure to protect indigenous territories poses a significant obstacle to achieving targets outlined in international frameworks such as the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
• Target 3 of this framework, aiming for 30% protection of land and water by 2030, may be jeopardized without adequate safeguarding of indigenous lands.’
• Indigenous territories, comprising 22% of the Earth’s land surface, harbor 80% of the remaining global biodiversity, emphasizing the urgent need for their protection.

Challenges and Slow Progress

• Despite growing recognition, progress in recognizing and titling indigenous territories has been slow.
• Initiatives such as Brazil’s proposal to protect 80% of the Amazon by 2025 face considerable challenges in implementation.
• Reports indicate that between 2021-2023, only a fraction of indigenous territories were formally recognized, with most being expansions of already recognized areas rather than new designations.
• This slow pace falls short of the urgent need to protect these critical areas.

Urgency and Call for Action

• As environmental crises like droughts and forest fires intensify, there is a pressing need for accelerated action to protect indigenous territories.
• There has been emphasis on the urgency of addressing these challenges and urge global forums like the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues to integrate ambitious protection goals into their agendas.
• Calls for a Global Pact for the protection of the Amazon underscore the gravity of the situation and the need for coordinated, international action.

Financial Implications

• Despite the vital role indigenous peoples play in land protection, they receive less than 1% of climate finance, highlighting systemic disparities in funding allocation.
• The lack of recognition of indigenous territories’ conservation contributions in climate finance mechanisms underscores the need for policy reforms to ensure equitable distribution of resources.

United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII):

• The Permanent Forum is an advisory body to the Economic and Social Council established by resolution 2000/22 on 28 July 2000.
• The Forum has the mandate to discuss indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health and human rights.
• The first meeting of the Permanent Forum was held in May 2002, with yearly sessions thereafter.
• It is one of three UN bodies that is mandated to deal specifically with indigenous peoples’ issues.
• The others are the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoplesand the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of indigenous peoples.

According to its mandate, the Permanent Forum will:

• provide expert advice and recommendations on indigenous issues to the Council, as well as to programmes, funds and agencies of the United Nations, through ECOSOC;
• raise awareness and promote the integration and coordination of activities related to indigenous issues within the UN system;
• prepare and disseminate information on indigenous issues The Permanent Forum holds annual two-week sessions.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/forests/un-permanent-forum-on-indigenous-issues-progress-towards-protecting-indigenous-territories-slow-say-experts-95576

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: A groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine provided significant insights into the cardiovascular effects of MPs and NPs.

EXPLANATION:

• Researchers meticulously analyzed carotid artery plaque specimens from a cohort of 304 patients.
• The study revealed the presence of common plastic polymers, such as polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride, within the plaque, with patients exhibiting these particles facing a significantly higher risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death.
• Plastics, ubiquitous in modern society, pose a significant threat to environmental and human health.
• The degradation of plastic waste leads to the formation of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), tiny particles that permeate various ecosystems.
• While the adverse effects of MPs and NPs on marine life are well-documented, emerging research suggests a potential link between these particles and cardiovascular disease in humans.

Pathways of Exposure

• MPs and NPs infiltrate the human body through multiple pathways, including ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact.
• These particles have been detected in diverse human tissues and bodily fluids, underscoring their pervasive presence in the environment.
• The omnipresence of plastics in drinking water, food, cosmetics, and even air particulate matter facilitates their absorption into highly vascularized organs like the heart.

Evidence of Cardiovascular Impact

• Recent preclinical studies have highlighted a concerning correlation between MPs/NPs and cardiovascular dysfunction.
• These particles, owing to their small size, easily penetrate tissues and organs, where they interact and potentially trigger adverse cardiovascular effects.
• Notably, observational data from occupational exposure studies suggest an increased risk of cardiovascular disease among individuals exposed to plastics-related pollution.

Mechanisms of Action

• While the precise mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular toxicity of MPs and NPs remain under investigation, animal studies suggest various plausible pathways.
• Polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride, two prevalent plastics, have been implicated in inducing pericardial effusions and promoting prothrombotic states.
• These findings highlight the potential cardiotoxicity of common plastic polymers and underscore the need for further mechanistic research.

Implications and Urgency

• The widespread distribution of MPs and NPs in the environment necessitates urgent action to mitigate their impact on human health.
• As plastic production continues to rise, addressing the cardiovascular risks associated with these particles becomes paramount.
• Efforts to minimize plastic pollution and enhance regulatory measures are crucial steps in safeguarding cardiovascular health.

Microplastics:

• Micro-plastics are very small (generally less than 5 millimeters in size) plastic particles that can originate from a variety of sources, such as ingredients in cigarette filters, textile fibers and cleaning or personal care products, and dust from car and truck tires, as well as from larger plastic products broken down by the effects of the sun, wind and ocean waves.
• There are two types of micro-plastics: “primary” and “secondary” micro-plastics:
  • Primary micro-plastics are manufactured to be tiny in order to serve a specific function for example, as an abrasive in a consumer product.
  • Secondary micro-plastics come from the breakdown of larger plastic items.

Nanoplastic:

• Nanoplastics are associated with several risks to the ecology and toxicity to humans.
• Nanoplastics are synthetic polymers with dimensions ranging from 1 nm to 1 μm.
• They are directly released to the environment or secondarily derived from plastic disintegration in the environment.
• Nanoplastics are widely detected in environmental samples and the food chain; therefore, their potentially toxic effects have been widely explored.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/health/microplastics-and-nanoplastics-are-an-emerging-threat-to-cardiovascular-health-95572

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The Cigar Galaxy, also known as Messier 82 (M82), has long captivated astronomers with its turbulent core and prolific star-forming activity. Recent observations from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have provided unprecedented insights into the dynamics of this starburst galaxy, revealing intricate details of its central region.

EXPLANATION:

• The research is led by a team of scientists utilized the JWST’s near-infrared camera (NIRCam) to investigate the conditions driving the formation of infant stars within M82, shedding new light on the galactic phenomena at play.

Characteristics of the Cigar Galaxy:

• M82 stands out for its compact yet turbulent environment, making it an ideal laboratory for studying the process of mass star formation.
• Its proximity to Earth and distinctive features, including red glowing gas and dust emanating from its core, have made it a focal point for astronomical research.
• With its high resolution and sensitivity, the JWST offers a unique opportunity to unravel the mysteries of this enigmatic galaxy and unveil previously unseen details.

Insights from JWST Observations:

• The JWST’s image of the Cigar Galaxy’s core has revealed intriguing findings, particularly regarding the nature of the red glowing dust observed within the galaxy.
• While previous observations from telescopes like Spitzer and Hubble have provided valuable data, the JWST’s superior capabilities have allowed for a more comprehensive examination of M82’s star-forming regions.
• The red glowing dust, previously thought to be associated solely with hot plasma, is now believed to be driven out by the combined particle winds of numerous stars, creating a galactic superwind.

Implications for Galactic Evolution:

• The newfound understanding of the Cigar Galaxy’s dynamics has significant implications for our understanding of galactic evolution and star formation processes.
• The superwind phenomenon observed in M82 suggests a complex interplay of stellar activity and environmental factors, highlighting the dynamic nature of galaxies.
• By studying starburst galaxies like M82, astronomers can gain valuable insights into the mechanisms driving the formation and evolution of stars on a cosmic scale.

Advancements in Astronomical Imaging:

• The JWST’s groundbreaking image of the Cigar Galaxy showcases the power and potential of next-generation telescopes in advancing our understanding of the universe.
• By resolving individual stars and star clusters within M82’s core, the JWST enables scientists to conduct detailed analyses of stellar populations and star formation rates.
• This capability opens new avenues for studying galactic structures and processes with unprecedented clarity and precision.

Galaxy:

• Galaxies consist of stars, planets, and vast clouds of gas and dust, all bound together by gravity. The largest contain trillions of stars and can be more than a million light-years across.
• The smallest can contain a few thousand stars and span just a few hundred light-years. Most large galaxies have supermassive black holes at their centers, some with billions of times the Sun’s mass.
• Galaxies come in a variety of shapes, mostly spirals and ellipticals, as well as those with less orderly appearances, usually dubbed irregular.
• Most galaxies are between 10 billion and 13.6 billion years old. Some are almost as old as the universe itself, which formed around 13.8 billion years ago. Astronomers think the youngest known galaxy formed approximately 500 million years ago.

JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE:

• The James Webb Space Telescopeis the largest, most powerful space telescope ever built.
• Thetelescope will be able to capture images of some of the first galaxies ever formed.
• It will also be able to observe objects in our solar system from Mars outward, look inside dust clouds to see where new stars and planets are forming and examine the atmospheres of planets orbiting other stars.
• The Webb telescope’scameras are sensitive to heat from the Sun. Webb has a sunshield to protect its instruments and mirrors.
• The James Webb Space Telescopesees the universe in light that is invisible to human eyes. This light is called infrared radiation. The James Webb Space Telescope will use its infrared cameras to see through dust in the universe.
• It took deep field images of Pandora’s cluster in 2022.

SOURCE: https://www.livemint.com/science/news/nasa-shares-image-of-cigar-galaxy-taken-by-hubble-and-webb-telescope-something-strange-happened/amp-11713174514359.html

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Long COVID, characterized by persistent symptoms lasting beyond three months post-recovery from COVID-19, poses a significant challenge in understanding the full impact of the pandemic on public health.

EXPLANATION:

• While previous studies have reported varying incidence rates, a recent study utilizing blood donor data offers valuable insights into the true incidence and nature of Long COVID.
• By distinguishing individuals with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection from those without, the study sheds light on the prevalence, symptoms, and resolution of long-term health problems resulting from COVID-19.

Methodology and Robust Parameters:

• The study leveraged U.S. blood donor data from over 200,000 individuals, employing antibody tests to identify past natural infections of COVID-19.
• By detecting anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) antibodies, the researchers accurately distinguished individuals with prior infection from those without.
• This rigorous approach, coupled with healthcare professional diagnoses and positive COVID-19 tests as evidence, ensured a reliable control group for comparison.
• Unlike self-reported diagnoses, these parameters provided a dependable framework for estimating the true impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on long-term health outcomes.

Incidence and Nature of Long COVID:

• The findings revealed that 43.3% of individuals with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections experienced new symptoms lasting four weeks or longer post-recovery, indicating the prevalence of Long COVID.
• Neurological symptoms, changes in taste or smell, and cardiac or respiratory symptoms were among the reported health problems, with difficulty thinking or concentrating and fatigue being the most common.
• Surprisingly, mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, were comparable between individuals with and without prior infection, underscoring the pandemic’s broader impact on mental well-being.

Resolution and Persistence of Symptoms:

• While Long COVID symptoms persisted in a significant proportion of cases, the study also highlighted resolution over time.
• Despite symptoms lasting over a year for some individuals, a substantial number reported symptom resolution, offering hope for recovery.
• Household pulse surveys in the U.S. corroborated these findings, indicating a steady percentage of adults affected by Long COVID.
• Furthermore, studies from India suggested a lower incidence of Long COVID following Omicron infection compared to previous variants, with repeated infections heightening the risk.

Limitations and Future Directions:

• Despite its robust methodology, the study had limitations, including the potential underestimation of infection due to the lack of subsequent antibody measurements and the exclusion of individuals with severe outcomes.
• Future research could address these limitations by conducting longitudinal studies and including a broader spectrum of COVID-19 patients.
• Additionally, efforts to understand the mechanisms underlying Long COVID and develop targeted interventions are essential for mitigating its impact on global health.

Anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) antibodies:

• Antinucleocapsid antibodies (anti-N Abs) are currently being used to diagnose prior SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals and to determine community seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2.
  • SARS-CoV-2 virus is responsible for causing the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
• In a large, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled vaccine efficacy trial of the mRNA-1273 vaccine, anti-N Ab status was determined in participants who had prior SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by polymerase chain reaction or anti-N Abs.

COVID 19:

• COVID-19, also known as coronavirus disease 2019, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
• It is a highly contagious disease that can lead to mild to severe respiratory symptoms, affecting various parts of the body.
• The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and particles, and infected individuals can transmit it even if they do not show symptoms.
• People at higher risk of severe illness include older individuals, those with weakened immune systems, certain disabilities, or underlying health conditions.
• Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe and may include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, or diarrhea.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/blood-bank-study-reveals-true-incidence-of-long-covid/article68057988.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a critical alert on viral hepatitis, drawing attention to the significant global burden of this infectious disease.

EXPLANATION:

• The release of the Global Hepatitis Report 2024 provides valuable insights into the epidemiology, challenges, and strategies for combating hepatitis on a global scale.
• With a focus on India’s high disease burden and the rising prevalence of both viral and non-viral forms of the disease, understanding the findings of this report is crucial for shaping effective public health interventions and policies.

Key Findings from the Global Hepatitis Report 2024:

• The report underscores the alarming scale of the hepatitis epidemic, with viral hepatitis ranking as the second leading infectious cause of death globally.
• Highlighting a staggering 1.3 million deaths per year, comparable to tuberculosis, the report reveals a concerning trend of increasing mortality attributed to viral hepatitis.
• Hepatitis B and C account for the majority of these deaths, with an estimated 354 million people worldwide living with chronic hepatitis B or C infections.
• Despite these grim statistics, the report also identifies areas of progress, such as improved diagnosis and treatment coverage since 2019.
• India emerges as one of the countries with the highest disease burden of viral hepatitis, accounting for 11.6% of the global total.
• Factors contributing to India’s vulnerability include high population density, limited awareness of symptoms, inadequate screening and treatment infrastructure, and suboptimal hygiene practices.
• Chronic viral hepatitis B and C infections remain a significant challenge, often remaining asymptomatic for prolonged periods and perpetuating transmission due to undiagnosed cases.
• Additionally, the rising prevalence of non-viral forms of hepatitis, such as alcoholic liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, further exacerbates the burden on India’s healthcare system.

Prevention and Treatment Strategies:

• Preventive measures, including vaccination for hepatitis B and access to curative treatments for hepatitis C, are essential components of effective hepatitis control strategies.
• While the availability of affordable generic medications in India has facilitated treatment access, challenges persist in ensuring comprehensive coverage and eliminating discrimination against patients.
• The government’s viral hepatitis control program, which includes vaccination for high-risk adults and treatment provisions, represents a step in the right direction.
• However, sustained efforts are needed to expand access to testing, diagnostics, and equitable treatment, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Implications and Recommendations:

• The Global Hepatitis Report 2024 serves as a call to action for governments, healthcare providers, and international organizations to prioritize hepatitis control efforts.
• Addressing gaps in service delivery, decentralizing healthcare systems, and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for viral hepatitis services are essential steps in advancing a public health approach to combating hepatitis.
• Furthermore, the report underscores the need for enhanced global cooperation, improved funding mechanisms, and policy reforms to achieve the ambitious goal of ending the hepatitis epidemic by 2030.
• By adopting evidence-based interventions and fostering multisectoral collaboration, stakeholders can work towards achieving the WHO’s targets and ensuring a healthier future for all.

Hepatitis:

• Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and noninfectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal.
• There are five main strains of the hepatitis virus, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E.
• While they all cause liver disease, they differ in important ways including modes of transmission, severity of the illness, geographical distribution and prevention methods.
• In particular, types B and C lead to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people and together are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and viral hepatitis-related deaths.
• An estimated 354 million people worldwide live with hepatitis B or C, and for most, testing and treatment remain beyond reach.
• Hepatitis A:
  • Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver.
  • It is transmitted primarily through the consumption of contaminated water or food that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person.
  • Poor sanitation and hygiene practices, such as inadequate handwashing after using the toilet, can contribute to the spread of the virus.
• Hepatitis B:
  • Hepatitis B can cause a chronic infection and puts people at high risk of death from cirrhosis and liver cancer.
  • It can spread through contact with infected body fluids like blood, saliva, vaginal fluids and semen. It can also be passed from a mother to her baby.
  • Hepatitis B can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. The vaccine is usually given soon after birth with boosters a few weeks later. It offers nearly 100% protection against the virus.
• Hepatitis C:
  • Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. It can cause both acute (short term) and chronic (long term) illness. It can be life-threatening.
  • Hepatitis C is spread through contact with infected blood. This can happen through sharing needles or syringes, or from unsafe medical procedures such as blood transfusions with unscreened blood products.
  • Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
  • There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but it can be treated with antiviral medications.
  • Early detection and treatment can prevent serious liver damage and improve long-term health.
• Hepatitis D:
  • Hepatitis D is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV), which requires HBV for its replication.
  • Hepatitis D infection cannot occur in the absence of hepatitis B virus.
  • HDV-HBV co-infection is considered the most severe form of chronic viral hepatitis due to more rapid progression towards hepatocellular carcinoma and liver-related death.
  • Vaccination against hepatitis B is the only method to prevent HDV infection.
  • The routes of HDV transmission, like HBV, occur through broken skin (via injection, tattooing etc.) or through contact with infected blood or blood products. Transmission from mother to child is possible but rare.
  • Vaccination against HBV prevents HDV coinfection and hence expansion of childhood HBV immunization programmes has resulted in a decline in hepatitis D incidence worldwide.
• Hepatitis E:
  • Hepatitis E is inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). The virus has at least 4 different types: genotypes 1, 2, 3 and 4. Genotypes 1 and 2 have been found only in humans.
  • Hepatitis E infection is found worldwide and is common in low- and middle-income countries with limited access to essential water, sanitation, hygiene and health services.
  • In these areas, the disease occurs both as outbreaks and as sporadic cases.
  • The outbreaks usually follow periods of faecal contamination of drinking water supplies and may affect several hundred to several thousand persons.
  • Some of these outbreaks have occurred in areas of conflict and humanitarian emergencies such as war zones and camps for refugees or internally displaced populations, where sanitation and safe water supply pose special challenges.

SOURCE: https://thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/why-is-there-a-who-alert-on-viral-hepatitis-explained/article68062579.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Amidst the looming threat of extinction, a ray of hope shines through the dense jungles of Java as conservationists capture an image of a critically endangered Javan rhinoceros calf through a camera trap.

EXPLANATION:

• This significant sighting offers a glimpse into the fragile existence of one of the rarest mammals on Earth and signals a potential for the recovery of a population teetering on the brink of extinction.

Status of the Javan Rhino Population:

• The Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) stands as a symbol of conservation urgency, with fewer than 100 individuals left in the wild.
• Ujung Kulon National Park in Java serves as the last stronghold for these majestic creatures, with approximately 82 rhinos inhabiting its 463 square miles of pristine habitat.
• Despite being slightly higher than previous estimates, this population remains critically vulnerable to a myriad of threats, including illegal poaching, habitat loss, food scarcity, and disease.

Conservation Efforts and Breeding Success:

• Efforts to safeguard the Javan rhinoceros have yielded promising results, as evidenced by the recent sighting of a calf in the wild.
• The installation of 126 camera traps within Ujung Kulon National Park has provided invaluable insights into the behavior and reproductive success of these elusive creatures.
• Authorities express optimism regarding the breeding potential of the rhinos, citing the sighting of the calf as evidence of successful reproduction within the population.
• This development underscores the importance of ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at preserving the genetic diversity and reproductive viability of the species.

Challenges and Threats:

• Despite recent strides in conservation, the road to recovery remains fraught with challenges.
• Illegal poaching continues to pose a significant threat to the survival of Javan rhinoceros, driven by the demand for rhino horn in traditional medicine and illegal wildlife trade.
• Habitat fragmentation and degradation further exacerbate the plight of these creatures, limiting their access to vital resources and exacerbating human-wildlife conflicts.
• Additionally, disease outbreaks, compounded by small population sizes, pose a looming threat to the long-term viability of the species.

Broader Conservation Context:

• The plight of the Javan rhinoceros serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for concerted conservation efforts to safeguard Earth’s biodiversity.
• While the focus remains on the Javan population, conservationists also highlight the plight of the Sumatran rhinoceros, another critically endangered species facing imminent extinction.
• With a population of only around 40 individuals, efforts to protect the Sumatran rhinoceros are equally vital in ensuring the survival of this iconic species.

Javan rhinoceros:

• The Javan rhino, also known as the lesser-one-horned rhino, is the most threatened of the five rhino species.
• Its scientific name is Rhinoceros sondaicus.
• They once lived throughout northeast India and Southeast Asia.
• Today, the entire population of the Javan rhinos is found in the Ujung Kulon National Park on the very western tip of Java, Indonesia.
• They inhabit forests, marshy areas, and regions of thick bush and bamboo.
• In 2020, park managers, relying on camera trap data to identify and track the animals, estimated that no more than 68–74 surviving individuals remained.
• Javan rhinoceros are smaller and lighter relative of the greater one-horned rhino. They can reach a height of 1.7 m (5.6 ft) and weigh up to 2,300 kg (5,070 lb).
• They have grey or grey-brown skin, almost black when wet, with pink colouring in the folds.
• Similar to the Indian rhino, the Javan rhinoceros has a single horn, unlike the other three species of rhinos, which have two.
• It has the smallest of horns for all species of rhinoceros measuring less than 20 cm (7.9 in) in length.
• Lifespan: 30 to 45 years in the wild.
• They’re herbivorous, only eating plants.
• They’re solitary animals, except for mating pairs and mothers with young.
• As per the conservation status of IUCN Red List, they are categorized as Critically Endangered.

Indian rhinoceros:

• The Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is found only in the Brahmaputra valley, parts of North Bengal, and parts of southern Nepal.
• It has a single black horn that can grow up to 60 cm, and a tough, grey-brown hide with skin folds, which gives the animal its characteristic armour-plated look.
• The Indian rhino is listed as vulnerable (better than endangered, worse than near threatened) in the IUCN Red List; it was earlier placed in the endangered category.
• According to the WWF, there are around 3,700 Indian rhinos in the wild today. Assam’s Kaziranga National Park (KNP) alone has 2,613 animals, according to a census carried out in March 2022.
• There are more than 250 other rhinos in the Orang, Pobitora, and Manas parks.

SOURCE: https://gizmodo.com/endangered-javan-rhino-calf-spotted-in-the-wild-1851394713

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The discovery of three new species of giant kangaroos – Protemnodon viator, Protemnodon mamkurra, and Protemnodon dawsonae – marks a significant milestone in our understanding of Australia’s prehistoric fauna.

EXPLANATION:

• The vast and diverse continent of Australia has been home to a myriad of unique and fascinating creatures throughout its geological history.
• Among these ancient inhabitants were the giant kangaroos, or Protemnodon, which once roamed the land in sizes far surpassing their modern counterparts.
• These formidable creatures, which inhabited the continent from 5 million to 40,000 years ago, contribute to the rich tapestry of ancient life that once thrived in the region.
• With the aid of advanced imaging techniques, including photographs and 3D scans of 900 specimens from major museums worldwide, researchers meticulously analyzed skeletal remains to distinguish between these distinct species.

Morphological Variations and Adaptations:

• One of the most intriguing findings of the study is the remarkable morphological diversity observed among the giant kangaroo species.
• Beyond mere differences in size, researchers uncovered distinct variations in locomotion, with some species employing a quadrupedal gait akin to modern kangaroos, while others exhibited a unique combination of bounding on four legs and hopping on two.
• This adaptive flexibility likely enabled these megafauna to thrive in diverse habitats ranging from the arid expanses of central Australia to the lush forests of Tasmania and Papua New Guinea.

Insights into Evolutionary History:

• The classification of these newfound species offers a crucial framework for elucidating the evolutionary trajectory of giant kangaroos and their responses to environmental change over millennia.
• By reconstructing their evolutionary history, researchers can unravel the intricate interplay between ecological dynamics and evolutionary forces that shaped the diversity of Australia’s ancient megafauna.
• Moreover, the study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary relationships between these extinct giants and their extant relatives, shedding light on the broader evolutionary patterns within the marsupial lineage.

Human Impact and Extinction:

• Despite their impressive adaptations and ecological resilience, the giant kangaroos ultimately succumbed to the forces of extinction.
• While their close relatives, such as the grey kangaroo and wallaroo, endured, the exact reasons for their demise remain elusive.
• However, mounting evidence suggests that rapid environmental changes induced by human activities, such as habitat alteration and hunting pressures, may have played a significant role in their extinction.
• The study underscores the importance of understanding past extinction events to inform conservation efforts and mitigate the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

Significance of the Research:

• The groundbreaking research not only enriches our knowledge of Australia’s ancient fauna but also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in paleontological studies.
• By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and collaborating across international borders, scientists have unlocked new insights into the lives of these enigmatic megafauna.
• Moreover, the study underscores the need for continued exploration and preservation of Earth’s rich fossil heritage, providing a window into the deep-time history of life on our planet.

Kangaroos:

• Kangaroos are large marsupials with powerful hind legs, large feet adapted for leaping, a long muscular tail for balance, and a small head.
• They possess a marsupium (pouch) for joey development.
• Native Habitat: Indigenous to Australia and New Guinea, with tree-kangaroos also living in tropical rainforests of New Guinea and far northeastern Queensland.
• Population Estimate (2019):8 million within commercial harvest areas of Australia.
• Adaptations: Specialized teeth for grazing, polyphyodonty for tooth replacement, and adaptation to land clearing better than smaller macropods.
• Cultural Significance: A symbol of Australia, appearing on the nation’s coat of arms, currency, and as logos for organizations like Qantas and the Royal Australian Air Force.
• Utilization: Hunted for meat, leather hides, and to protect grazing land. Kangaroo meat is considered healthier due to low fat levels.

SOURCE: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/apr/15/giant-fossil-kangaroos-scientists-identify-three-new-species-of-extinct-megafauna

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a novel hydrogel aimed at tackling the pervasive issue of microplastic pollution in water bodies.

EXPLANATION:

• Microplastics, posing significant threats to both human health and the environment, have become a pressing concern globally.
• In response, the IISc team has engineered a sustainable solution with promising capabilities.

Microplastic Threat

• Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, have emerged as a major environmental hazard, permeating various ecosystems and endangering aquatic and terrestrial lifeforms.
• With the ability to infiltrate drinking water sources, microplastics also pose health risks to humans.
• The urgency to address this challenge has prompted innovative research efforts.

Three-Layer Polymer Hydrogel

• The developed hydrogel features a sophisticated three-layer polymer structure, comprising chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyaniline.
• This unique intertwining of polymers forms an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) architecture, enhancing the material’s efficacy in microplastic removal.
• Traditional filtering membranes, prone to clogging, are bypassed in favor of this resilient hydrogel.
• Infusing the hydrogel with nanoclusters of copper substitute polyoxometalate (Cu-POM) introduces catalytic capabilities.
• Under UV light irradiation, these nanoclusters facilitate the degradation of microplastics, rendering them less harmful.
• This synergistic combination of polymers and nanoclusters results in a robust hydrogel capable of both adsorbing and degrading microplastics.

                            This hydrogel could remove over 90% of microplastics

Tracking and Efficiency Assessment

• Addressing the challenge of microplastic detection, the researchers incorporated a fluorescent dye into the hydrogel.
• This enables the tracking of microplastic removal and degradation under various environmental conditions, including pH levels, temperatures, and microplastic concentrations.
• The hydrogel exhibits high efficiency, removing up to 95% of microplastics in near-neutral pH conditions.

Durability and Strength

• In addition to its efficacy, the hydrogel demonstrates durability and strength, crucial for practical applications.
• The combination of polymers ensures stability across diverse temperature ranges, enhancing the material’s resilience under different environmental conditions.
• This durability underscores the potential of the hydrogel as a sustainable solution for microplastic remediation.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/iisc-researchers-design-novel-hydrogel-to-remove-microplastics-from-water/article68058021.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: According to the latest data from the Global Forest Watch (GFW) monitoring project, India has experienced a significant decline in tree cover since 2000. Over this period, the country lost 2.33 million hectares of tree cover, equivalent to a six percent decrease.

EXPLANATION:

• This loss has profound implications for climate change, as forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration.

Factors Contributing to Tree Cover Loss

• The causes of tree cover loss in India are diverse and multifaceted.
• While deforestation, characterized by the permanent removal of natural forest cover, is a significant factor, tree cover loss also encompasses human-caused loss and natural disturbances such as logging, fire, disease, or storm damage.
• Notably, 95 percent of tree cover loss in India from 2013 to 2023 occurred within natural forests, highlighting the scale of human impact on these ecosystems.

Regional Patterns and Impacts

• The data reveals regional disparities in tree cover loss, with certain states experiencing disproportionately high levels of deforestation.
• Assam, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur accounted for 60 percent of all tree cover loss between 2001 and 2023.
• Factors contributing to this loss vary from region to region, including logging, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development.

Climate Implications

• The loss of tree cover in India has significant implications for climate change.
• Forests serve as both a sink and a source of carbon, sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while also emitting it when cleared or degraded.
• The release of carbon dioxide from tree cover loss contributes to the acceleration of climate change, exacerbating global warming and its associated impacts.

Fires and Other Disturbances

• Fire represents a notable cause of tree cover loss in India, with thousands of hectares lost annually due to wildfires.
• Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Assam, and Meghalaya are among the states most affected by tree cover loss due to fires.
• These disturbances further compound the challenges faced by forest ecosystems and underscore the importance of effective fire management strategies.

Data Limitations and Considerations

• While the GFW provides valuable insights into forest dynamics, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of satellite-based monitoring.
• Tree cover loss does not always equate to forest loss or deforestation, as it may include temporary disturbances or land use changes that do not result in permanent forest conversion.
• Moreover, the evolution of data algorithms and satellite technology over time necessitates caution when interpreting trends and making comparisons across different time periods.

SOURCE: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-lost-2-33-million-hectares-of-tree-cover-since-2000-global-forest-watch-5428639

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Recent research spearheaded by a team of geneticists has unveiled a novel genetic variant, RAB32 Ser71Arg, linked to Parkinson’s disease.

EXPLANATION:

• This discovery, made through linkage analysis, sheds new light on the evolutionary origins of familial parkinsonism and offers promising avenues for therapeutic intervention.
• The identification of RAB32 Ser71Arg, found in affected individuals across several countries, underscores the global impact of Parkinson’s and highlights the interconnectedness of diverse populations through shared genetic ancestry.

Implications for Parkinson’s Research

• The discovery of RAB32 Ser71Arg represents a significant milestone in Parkinson’s research, providing a crucial piece of the puzzle in understanding the molecular mechanisms driving the disease.
• Notably, this variant interacts with proteins implicated in both early- and late-onset parkinsonism, as well as sporadic Parkinson’s, elucidating common pathways underlying disease pathology.
• Moreover, the functional roles of these proteins in dopamine regulation, autophagy, and cellular immunity offer new insights into the complex interplay of cellular processes implicated in Parkinson’s pathogenesis.

Parkinson’s disease:

• Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive impairment of motor function, often leading to immobility and cognitive decline.
• It is a condition in which a patient holds limited or no control over his movements and body balance.
• It occurs and progresses with ageing, but in rare cases, it is also witnessed among children and teenagers as well.
• It has no cure.
• Many studies have suggested that men are more likely to be affected by Parkinson’s than women.
• With over a million individuals affected in the U.S. alone, the prevalence of Parkinson’s is on the rise, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide.
• Despite decades of research, there remains a critical gap in our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of the disease, hindering the development of effective treatments.

Genetic Exploration of Parkinson’s

• Geneticists and molecular neuroscientists have long sought to uncover the genetic basis of Parkinson’s disease, recognizing the pivotal role of genetics in elucidating disease mechanisms.
• Two primary approaches have been instrumental in mapping the genetic landscape of Parkinson’s: linkage analysis and genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
  • Linkage Analysis:
    • This method focuses on rare familial cases of parkinsonism, identifying genetic variants that segregate with the disease within affected families.
    • By analyzing the genetic makeup of these families, researchers can pinpoint specific genes associated with Parkinson’s.
    • Notably, linkage studies have led to the discovery of pathogenic mutations in over 20 genes, providing valuable insights into the molecular pathways underlying the disease.
  • Genome-wide Association Studies (GWAS):
    • In contrast, GWAS examine the genetic profiles of large cohorts of individuals with Parkinson’s compared to healthy controls.
    • By analyzing common genetic variants across the genome, researchers can identify regions associated with increased disease risk.
    • While GWAS have identified numerous genetic loci implicated in Parkinson’s, the individual contribution of each gene to disease pathogenesis remains minimal.

Future Directions

• Moving forward, continued efforts to unravel the genetic basis of Parkinson’s disease hold immense promise for advancing our understanding of disease etiology and identifying novel therapeutic targets.
• With each new gene identified, researchers gain valuable insights into the intricate network of molecular pathways contributing to Parkinson’s pathology.
• Moreover, ongoing genetic research offers opportunities to explore gene-environment interactions and develop personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual patients.

SOURCE: https://www.sciencealert.com/breakthrough-parkinsons-gene-discovery-sheds-light-on-evolutionary-origin