Privatisation of Power DISCOMs

Source: FE 

Why in News? 

In December 2024, the Supreme Court upheld the Punjab and Haryana High Court's decision, supporting the government's intent to privatize the power distribution companies (DISCOMs), in Chandigarh. 

What is the Need for Privatisation of Power DISCOMs? 

• High AT&C Losses: Despite improvements, India’s Aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses remain high at 17.6% in FY24, showing persistent issues of electricity theft and unbilled supply.  
  • These losses undermine the financial health of DISCOMs and limit their ability to invest in infrastructure. 
• Systemic Inefficiencies: Billing efficiency at 87% and collection efficiency at 97.3% reflect persistent operational inefficiencies. 
  • These gaps reduce revenue generation, aggravating the financial strain on DISCOMs. 
• Escalating Financial Strain: The average cost of supply (ACS) and the average realizable revenue (ARR) gap widened to from 33 paise per unit in FY22 to 55 paise per unit in FY23. 
  • This gap exacerbates their debt, making them reliant on state subsidies. 
• Subsidy Burden on States: The financial deficit in India's power distribution sector widened to at least Rs 79,000 crore in FY23 from Rs. 44,000 crores in FY22. 
  • This dependency reflects unsustainable financial management in the power sector. 
• Rising Power Demand and Costs: A sharp 8% rise in power demand in FY23, coupled with dependence on costly coal imports and high exchange prices, pushed the average power purchase cost up by 71 paise/kWh.  
  • Without structural changes, these rising costs may lead to further financial instability for public-sector DISCOMs. 
• Demonstrated Success in Private Models: In Delhi, privatisation led to a dramatic reduction in AT&C losses from over 50% in 2002 to single-digit levels, demonstrating the potential for operational turnaround. 
  • Due to privatization, the Delhi government saved approximately Rs. 1,200 crores annually, which was previously spent on the Delhi Vidyut Board. 
• Ineffectiveness of Current Public-Sector Reforms: Government initiatives like the UDAY scheme have shown limited success in curbing losses or improving operational efficiency. 
  • Private-sector involvement is seen as necessary to introduce professional management, modern technologies, and accountability. 

What are Challenges of Privatisation of DISCOMs? 

• Employee Resistance to Privatisation: Employees of public-sector DISCOMs often oppose privatisation, fearing job losses, adverse service conditions, and retrenchment. 
  • Experiences like Delhi’s voluntary retirement scheme highlights employee concerns over job security and finances. 
• Complex Legal and Regulatory Environment: Challenges arise from complying with the Electricity Act, 2003, uncertainty over full privatization, and unclear reform options. 
  • For example, in Chandigarh, legal challenges raised concerns about whether the private bidder met all statutory requirements, delaying the process. 
• Tariff Concerns for Consumers: Post-privatisation, tariff increases are often necessary to cover operational costs and infrastructure investments, raising fears of consumer backlash. 
  • Balancing the need for cost recovery with affordability is a critical challenge for regulators and private players. 
• Lack of Transitional Support: Odisha’s privatisation failure in the 1990s is an example where the absence of adequate financial and operational transitional support led to poor outcomes. 
  • Unlike Odisha, Delhi’s success was bolstered by transitional funds of Rs. 3,450 crores, which helped DISCOMs manage initial operational hurdles. 

What are Government Steps to Support State DISCOMs? 

• Schemes: 
  • Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY): Launched in 2015 to rescue financially strained DISCOMs, UDAY reduced their debt by allowing states to take over 75% of liabilities as low-interest bonds.  
    • It targeted improved AT&C losses and billing efficiency through measures like smart metering and theft reduction.  
  • Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS): Introduced with a budget of Rs. 3,03,758 crore for a 5-year period (FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26).  
    • The scheme aims to reduce AT&C losses to 12-15% nationwide and eliminate the gap between ACS and ARR by 2024-25. 
  • Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS): Launched to strengthen the urban power distribution infrastructure, IPDS focuses on improving reliability, reducing technical losses, and ensuring better customer service in urban areas. 
• Other Measures: 
  • Integrated Ratings: The Integrated Rating of DISCOMs, conducted annually, evaluates operational and financial parameters, helping to identify inefficiencies and encourage accountability. 
    • The 12^th Edition of the Integrated Rating of Discoms highlighted improvements like reduced AT&C losses and better payment cycles. 

•  Financial Assistance and Subsidies: During FY23, state governments disbursed 108% of tariff subsidies booked, ensuring that DISCOMs could maintain operations despite losses. 
  • In cases like Delhi, transitional funding of Rs. 3,450 crores was instrumental in stabilizing operations post-privatisation. 
• Regulatory Reforms: Late Payment Surcharge Rules have significantly reduced days payable to 126 days and days receivable to 119 days, easing liquidity pressures on DISCOMs. 
  • These rules incentivize timely payments to generation and transmission companies. 
• Privatisation in Union Territories (UTs): The central government initiated privatisation of UT DISCOMs, with Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu being the first success stories in 2022. 
  • Progress in Chandigarh and Puducherry demonstrates ongoing efforts, despite resistance and litigation. 

Way Forward 

• Collaborative Stakeholder Engagement: Governments must engage employees, consumers, and political groups to address concerns and build consensus, ensuring a smooth transition. 
  • Clear communication about safeguards, such as pension liability sharing, can reduce resistance. 
• Focus on Regulatory Strengthening: State electricity regulatory commissions must be empowered to enforce transparent tariff determination, incentivize efficiency, and protect consumer interests. 
• Gradual Tariff Rationalisation: Tariff adjustments should be phased and coupled with subsidies for vulnerable consumers to maintain affordability while ensuring cost recovery. 
• Emphasis on Infrastructure Upgradation: Modernizing grids, introducing smart metering, and leveraging technology must be prioritized to improve service delivery and reduce losses. 
• Encouraging Retail Competition in Phases: While full privatisation is effective, exploring retail competition in a phased manner can offer consumers choice and improve service quality over time. 
• Learning from Best Practices: Applying best practices based on learnings  from both successful (Delhi) and unsuccessful (Odisha) models can help design effective policies and frameworks for privatisation. 

Drishti Mains Question:  What are the key needs and challenges driving DISCOM privatization in India, and how can systemic reforms address them?

India's Genomic Data Set

Source: PIB 

Why in News?  

India achieved a historic milestone at the Genome India Data Conclave in New Delhi with the launch of the Indian Genomic Data (IGD) Set under the GenomeIndia Project (GIP) and  frameworks like the Framework for Exchange of Data Protocols (FeED) and the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) Portals. 

• These initiatives position India as a leader in genomics, providing global researchers access to genome samples and achieving self-reliance in genomic data. 

What are the Key Highlights of the Genome India Data Conclave? 

• Indian Genomic Data Set: A comprehensive Indian genomic data set was launched, featuring 10,000 whole genome sequencing (WGS) samples, archived at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), India's first national repository for life science data. 
  • The dataset is now accessible to researchers worldwide, supporting advancements in genomics research and personalized medicine. 
  • The IBDC Portal facilitates seamless access to genetic data. 
• FeED Protocols: The FeED ensures ethical, transparent, and secure sharing of high-quality genomic data under the Biotech-PRIDE (Promotion of Research and Innovation through Data Exchange) Guidelines.  
• GenomeIndia Project: Emphasized the significance of the Genome India Project (GIP), led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), this initiative creates a comprehensive database of India’s genetic diversity. 

What is the GenomeIndia Project? 

• About: The GIP is a flagship initiative launched in 2020 by the DBT, with the objective of mapping the genetic diversity of India.  
  • It aims to sequence and analyze the genomes of India’s diverse population groups, providing insights into the country’s unique genetic makeup. 
• Objective: Establish a baseline genetic map to study health, disease predisposition, and population-specific traits. 
• Scope: The first phase of GIP involves sequencing the genomes of 10,000 individuals across 99 ethnic groups. Long-term plans aim to scale this to 1 million genomes. 
  • The second phase of the GIP focuses on sequencing genomes of individuals with specific diseases like cancer, diabetes, and rare diseases.  
    • This will help identify genes linked to these conditions by comparing diseased genomes with healthy ones. 
• Significance for India: With over 4,600 distinct population groups, India’s genetic diversity is unparalleled. 
  • The project aims to uncover genetic factors unique to Indian populations, such as rare diseases and mutations like MYBPC3, linked to early cardiac arrest, which are not found in global databases. 

What are the Key Benefits of Indigenous Genomic Data? 

• Personalized Medicine: The healthcare system in India faces challenges due to a one-size-fits-all approach, where treatments often do not account for the genetic diversity of the population. 
  • IGD enables tailored healthcare solutions for India's demographic, improving treatment effectiveness and outcomes. 
• Bioeconomy Growth: IGD will fuel India’s growing bioeconomy, which has surged from USD 10 billion in 2014 to over USD 130 billion in 2024.  
• Positioning India as a Global Leader: India ranks 12th globally in biotech and 3rd in Asia-Pacific.  
  • As the largest vaccine producer with over 8,500 biotech startups in 2023, India is set to lead the global bioeconomy.  
  • IGD reduces dependence on foreign databases, positioning India as a hub for genomic innovation.  
    • Under the new BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy, this data will propel India to global leadership in biotechnology, advancing the nation's role in the 4th industrial revolution. 
• Enhanced Genetic Tools: IGD facilitates the creation of genomic tools and diagnostic tests specific to regional genetic variations, improving accuracy in healthcare. 
• Agricultural and Environmental Research: Provides insights into genetic diversity that can improve crop breeding, disease resistance, and environmental sustainability. 

What are India’s Other Initiatives for Biotechnology Development? 

• BioE3 Policy 
• National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2020-25 
• National Biopharma Mission 
• Biotech-KISAN Scheme 
• Atal Jai Anusandhan Biotech Mission 
• One Health Consortium 
• Biotech Parks 
• Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) 
• IndiGen Project:  Launched in 2019 by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), aims to map the genetic makeup of Indians to better understand disease susceptibility and drug responses. 

Drishti Mains Question:  What is the significance of the Genome India Project (GIP) in the context of India’s genetic diversity and healthcare system?

Tribal Ministry’s Directive on Forest Right Act, 2006

Source: IE 

Why in News? 

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has directed states to establish Institutional Mechanisms to ensure compliance with the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, in tiger reserves.  

What are the Key Highlights of the Recent Directive By Tribal Ministry? 

• Ensure FRA Compliance: The Ministry emphasized that forest-dwelling communities cannot be evicted without legal recognition of their rights under the FRA and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. 
  • This move follows complaints of unlawful evictions from forest-dwelling communities, particularly in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.  
• Consent for Relocation: Section 4(2) of the FRA provides safeguards that make it imperative to obtain free, informed consent of Gram Sabhas in writing for relocation. The law also provides for settlement rights in the areas where the settlement is proposed. 
  • States must submit a report detailing tribal villages in tiger reserves, and the status of their forest rights claims. 
  • The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has also sought timelines for relocating 591 villages in tiger reserves, intensifying debates over balancing conservation with community rights. 
• Grievance Redressal Mechanism: States are instructed to set up grievance redressal systems to handle complaints and grievances related to eviction from forest areas. 

What are the Challenges in the Implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006?  

• Lack of Recognition of Individual Rights: The recognition of individual rights under the FRA faces resistance from the Forest Department, which perceives it as a challenge to their control over forest resources.  
  • In Assam, shifting cultivation practices complicate the rights recognition process, while in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district, community forest lands face threats of diversion for non-forest purposes despite progress in recognizing rights, revealing implementation gaps. 
• Technological Issues: The implementation of digital platforms like VanMitra faces significant barriers due to poor internet connectivity and low literacy rates in tribal areas, making it harder to facilitate smooth processing of claims. 
• Conflicting Legislations: The FRA often clashes with laws like the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and Wildlife Protection Act,1972. These conflicts create ambiguities, with officials prioritizing traditional forest governance over FRA mandates. 
• High Rejection Rates: Many claims are rejected due to a lack of proper documentation or evidence, often without clear explanations or opportunities for appeal. This leaves legitimate claimants without recourse.  
• Underperforming Gram Sabhas: The Gram Sabha often lacks the capacity, resources, and training to perform its responsibilities effectively. 
  • Local elites within forest-dwelling communities often dominate decision-making processes, monopolizing the benefits and leaving marginalized groups without access to rights. 
• Eviction and Development Conflicts: Despite FRA provisions, large-scale development projects like mining, dams, and highways often result in the eviction of forest-dwelling communities.  

Way Forward 

• Addressing Resistance: Form tribal or forest dweller bodies, like Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), to assert rights collectively, foster dialogue with forest departments, and align conservation with FRA objectives for sustainable management and empowerment.  
  • Amending  existing laws like the Indian Forest Act, 1927, to reduce conflicts with the FRA and ensure clearer, cooperative governance. 
• Improving Technological Capabilities: Focus on enhancing internet connectivity in tribal areas and providing training on digital platforms for smoother claims processing. 
  • Simplify documentation procedures to make the process more user-friendly while fostering digital literacy for comprehensive capacity building. 
• Balancing Development and Community Rights: Ensure that large-scale development projects respect community rights and integrate sustainable practices to protect both forest communities and biodiversity. 
  • Establish frameworks to address conflicts between conservation and community empowerment by promoting co-management models. 
• Inclusive Decision-Making: Ensure that decision-making within Gram Sabhas is inclusive, with marginalized groups such as women and lower castes having equal access to rights and benefits. 
• Enhancing Awareness and Capacity Building: Launch widespread awareness campaigns to educate forest-dwelling communities about their rights under the FRA, enabling them to file claims. 
  • Build the capacity of Gram Sabhas with adequate resources and training to ensure effective decision-making and inclusion of marginalized groups. 

Drishti Mains Question:  Discuss the challenges in implementing the Forest Rights Act (FRA). How can the government ensure a balance between biodiversity conservation and the rights of forest-dwelling communities?

Record Global Warming and its Effect on India

Source: IE 

Why in News? 

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has confirmed that 2024 is the warmest year on record. The past ten years 2015-2024 are the ten warmest years on record. 

• According to IMD, the temperature increase in India is lower than the global average rise in temperature. 
• However, concerns exist that global climate models don't accurately reflect changes in India, highlighting the need to improve its climate observation and impact assessment capabilities. 

What are the Key Findings by the WMO? 

• Record Global Temperature: In 2024, the global average surface temperature was 1.55°C above the pre-industrial levels (1850-1900 period), marking the first year with a temperature exceeding 1.5°C above this baseline. 
• Ocean Heat: The top 2000 meters of ocean water absorbed a record 16 zettajoules of heat, roughly 140 times the total global electricity generation in 2023. 
  • Around 90% of excess heat from global warming is stored in the ocean. 
• Temperature Assessment: Although 2024's temperature surpassed 1.5°C, the WMO assures that the Paris Agreement's goals remain intact. 
  • It emphasizes that every fraction of a degree worsens climate impacts on ecosystems and human systems.  
  • The Paris Agreement is a legally binding global agreement under UNFCCC to limit global warming to well below 2oC above pre-industrial levels, with an ambition to limit warming to 1.5oC. 
• Warming in India: India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that in 2024 India was 0.65 degrees Celsius higher than normal but lower than the global average of 1.55°C. 
  • IMD data shows that temperature over India in 2024 was about 1.2 °C higher than the 1901-1910 average. 

What are the Reasons Behind Lower Warming Over India? 

• Geographic Location: Global temperature rise has been more noticeable at higher latitudes, especially near the poles, due to heat transfer from the tropics through air circulation systems and the fact that higher latitudes already have lower temperatures. 
  • India is located in the tropical zone, closer to the equator which does not experience such geographical phenomenon. 
• Albedo Effect: In the Arctic region, higher heating is caused by low albedo effect, where melting ice exposes land or water that traps more heat than ice-covered surfaces, which reflect sunlight. 
  • In India, albedo effect on snow is restricted to Himalayan areas. 
• Aerosols and Pollution: The particulate matter and aerosols have a cooling effect because they scatter the solar radiation back into space. Aerosols also help in cloud formation which, in turn, help in reflecting sunlight back to space. 
  • High air pollution in India due particulate matter and aerosols have a small unintended consequence of lowering the temperature rise. 
• Altitude Variations: India's landmass is not uniform, with distinct variations in temperature rise across regions.  
  • Some areas see more warming due to local climate and geography, but the national average temperature rise remains lower. 

What are the Consequences of Rising Global Temperatures? 

• Sea Level Rise: Global sea level has risen by about 8 inches since 1880 and is projected to rise by at least another foot by 2100 inundating coastal areas, displacing communities, and disrupting ecosystems. 
  • Oceans absorb significant CO2, increasing acidity and harming marine life. 
• Droughts and Heat Waves: Droughts and heat waves are likely to intensify, while cold waves are expected to weaken and occur less frequently. 
  • Warming and prolonged drought have intensified wildfire seasons and increased fire risks. 
• Biodiversity Loss: Rising temperatures and shifting weather disrupt ecosystems, driving many species toward extinction. 
• Related Effects: Extreme weather disrupts food production, causing shortages and price hikes, while rising temperatures worsen air quality, increase heat illnesses, and spread diseases. 

 

How India Can Better Observe Global Warming? 

• Expansion of Weather Stations: India needs to expand its weather stations, especially in rural areas, with stations in every major panchayat under the Viksit Bharat vision for 2047, to gather real-time data for accurate climate assessments. 
• Enhancing Computing Capabilities: India must invest in advanced computing and analysis infrastructure to process climate data for improved disaster management, agricultural forecasting, and climate resilience strategies. 
• Regular Impact Assessments: India needs to conduct India-specific climate change impact assessments to track the evolving climate risks like sea level rise, and ecosystem changes. 
• Mission Mausam: Mission Mausam should be strengthened and integrated with national and international systems for better weather prediction, especially in coastal and mountainous regions. 
  • Mission Mausam aims to enhance India’s ability to predict and respond to extreme weather events and the impacts of climate change. 
• Localized Impact Studies: India needs to invest in localized studies that reflect the specific climate challenges faced by different regions such as the Himalayas, coastal areas, and urban centers for targeted adaptation strategies and policy interventions. 

Way Forward 

• Six-Sector Approach: Adopt the United Nations Environment Programme's strategy to cut emissions across energy, industry, agriculture, forests, transport, and building sectors. 
• Reforestation and Afforestation: Plant trees to act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂ from the atmosphere.  
  • Restore degraded forests and protect existing ones to preserve biodiversity and carbon storage capacity.  
• Energy Efficiency: Promote energy-efficient appliances, buildings, and industrial processes. 
  • Implement stricter energy standards and adopt smart technologies to optimize energy use. 
• Sustainable Agriculture: Adopt climate-smart agricultural practices, such as sustainable irrigation techniques, drought-resistant crop varieties, and agroforestry. 

Drishti Mains Question:  Discuss the factors contributing to the global temperature rise and analyze why India experiences relatively lower warming compared to global averages.

 

Golden Langur

Source: IE 

Why in News?  

A Golden Langur was killed in an accident on National Highway 117 in Assam, raising concerns over the increasing threats to this endangered species. 

 

What are the Key Facts About Golden Langur? 

• Taxonomy and Discovery: 
  • Species Name: Trachypithecus geei. 
  • Family: Cercopithecidae (Old World Monkeys). 
  • Subfamily: Colobinae (Leaf-eating monkeys). 
  • Discovered By: E.P. Gee in 1953; formally described by Khajuria in 1956. 
• Geographic Range: Golden langurs are found exclusively in Assam, India, and neighboring Bhutan. 
  • They inhabit a restricted area bordered by the foothills of Bhutan (north), the Manas River (east), the Sankosh River (west), and the Brahmaputra River (south). 
• Habitat: Subtropical and temperate broadleaf forests at elevations from near sea level to above 3,000 meters. 
• Physical Characteristics: 
  • Color: Golden-orange fur. Coat color changes with seasons (cream in summer, dark golden in winter). 
  • Facial Features: Black hairless face with a pale beard; protective hair whorl on the crown. 
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males are larger and more robust than females. 
•  Behavior: Active during the day (Diurnal) and primarily live in trees (Arboreal). 
  • Golden Langurs live in troops of 3 to 15 individuals, typically a single male with multiple females or occasionally all-male groups. 
• Geographic Variation: The golden langur is thought to have two subspecies based on coat color differences, they are Trachypithecus geei bhutanensis (northern Bhutan) and Trachypithecus geei geei (southern Bhutan and India). 
  • However, the northern subspecies has not been formally described according to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN). 
• Threats: Fragmented habitats are a major threat to golden langurs, as their population is split into isolated groups.  
  • The absence of non-breeding all-male bands in these fragmented areas is a concern, as it could affect the species' long-term survival.  
  • Human activities like road construction, deforestation, and conflicts between people and wildlife are causing this habitat fragmentation. 
• Conservation Status: The IUCN Red List lists the golden langur as Endangered, and it is protected under  Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix I. 
  • The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 (now the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act 2022) lists the Golden Langur in Schedule I, ensuring highest stringent protection measures. 
• Conservation Measures:  Create corridors to connect fragmented habitats, improving genetic diversity and movement between populations.  
  • Building canopy bridges for safer movement. Long-term conservation strategies are needed to address human impacts on the golden langur’s habitat. 

India Joins UN Panel on Big Data

Source: TH 

Why in News? 

India has become a member of the United Nations (UN) Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD) after its recent induction into the United Nations Statistical Council (UNSC), signaling its growing influence in global statistical frameworks. 

What is the United Nations Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD)? 

• About:  
  • UN-CEBD is a specialized body under the United Nations, established to leverage Big Data and data science for strengthening global statistical systems. 
  • It was established in 2014, under the aegis of the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC). 
• Members: 
  • It has 31 member states (including India) and 16 international organizations.  
• Objectives: 
  • Explore the role of big data in monitoring and reporting progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 
  • Address challenges associated with utilizing non-traditional data sources for official statistics. 
• Governance: 
  • Advisory Board: Serves as the principal management body of the UN-CEBD and convenes around 4 times a year to review the committee's work and provide strategic guidance. 
  • UN Bureau: It oversees the day-to-day operations and administrative functions. 
• Key Functions: 
  • Strategic Coordination: Provides vision, direction, and coordination for a global program on utilizing big data in official statistics, including for tracking indicators of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 
  • Promotion of Big Data Use: Encourages practical applications of big data, including cross-border data, while addressing associated challenges and leveraging existing frameworks. 
    • Encourage innovative utilization of non-conventional data sources, including satellite imagery, IoT, and private-sector data. 
  • Capacity Building: Focuses on enhancing capabilities through training, experience-sharing, and building technical expertise and offering technical assistance to member nations for modernizing their statistical systems. 
  • Building Public Trust: Works towards establishing public confidence in the use of big data for official statistical purposes. 

What is Big Data? 

• About: 
  • Big data refers to large, complex datasets that traditional data management systems cannot efficiently store, process, or analyze.  
  • It enables improved processes, better decision-making, and enhanced product/service development. 
• India's Big Data Initiatives: 
  • National Data & Analytics Platform (NDAP)  
  • Big Data Management Policy  
  • National Data Warehouse on Official Statistics 
• Drivers: There are 6Vs that drive big data are: 

 

• Applications: 

 

Discoveries in Biology Using C. Elegans

Source: TH 

The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans has played a pivotal role in numerous Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, shedding light on fundamental biological processes. 

• Nobel Winning Research on C. Elegans: 
  • Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun (2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine): Discovered microRNAs and their crucial role in gene expression control. 
  • Osamu Shimomura, Martin Chalfie, and Roger Tsien (2008 Nobel Prize in Chemistry): Developed green fluorescent protein (GFP), enabling live-cell imaging and revolutionizing biological research. 
    • GFP is a tool used in molecular and cell biology for visualizing and tracking biological processes. 
  • Andrew Fire and Craig Mello (2006 Nobel Prize in Medicine): Discovered RNA interference (RNAi), revolutionizing gene-silencing techniques. 
    • It led to the discovery that double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) can silence specific genes, offering potential therapeutic applications. 
  • Sydney Brenner (2002 Nobel Prize in Medicine): His research contributed to understanding programmed cell death. 
• About C. Elegans: It is a tiny invertebrate, measuring just 1 mm in length, and transparent nematode. 
  • Nematodes, also called roundworms, are unsegmented, cylindrical, and often microscopic organisms and a major component of soil and sediment ecosystems. 
  • They are parasitic in animals or plants or free-living in soil or water. 

 

Read More: Nobel Prize 2024 in Physiology or Medicine 

Chimpanzee Conservation

Source: TH 

NGO Papaye International in Cameroon has been in the news, which operates a sanctuary for orphaned chimpanzees in the Douala-Edea National Park. 

• About Chimpanzee: Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes ssp.) are one of our nearest living relatives, sharing a common ancestor with humans that lived approximately 7-8 million years ago. 
  • Subspecies: Four recognized subspecies: Central chimpanzee, Western chimpanzee, Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee, and Eastern chimpanzee. 
• IUCN Status: Chimpanzees listed as endangered, with Western chimpanzees classified as Critically Endangered. 
• Cultural Diversity: Chimpanzees exhibit culturally learned behaviors, including tool use, vocal dialects, and feeding techniques, varying by subspecies. 
  • They live in highly structured social groups, often consisting of 20 to 150 members, showcasing complex communication and behaviors. 
  • Examples of tool use by Chimpanzees include termite fishing, harvest honey and nut cracking, with variations in tools and techniques across populations. 
• Feeding Habits: Chimpanzees have diverse diets, such as mangrove leaves and cave use, particularly in dry environments. 

 

• Habitat destruction and hunting threaten genetic and cultural diversity, making conservation efforts crucial. 

• About Cameroon: 
  • It is located in Central Africa, bordered by Nigeria, Chad, the Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea.  
    • It features diverse geography, including coastal plains, mountains, and rainforests. 

Read more: Mining Threatens African Great Apes 

Reconstitution of Atomic Energy Commission

Source: ET 

The government has recently reconstituted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC). 

• Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), is the Chairman of the AEC and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is among the key members. 
• About Atomic Energy Commission (AEC): AEC was first established in August 1948 to oversee atomic energy research under the Department of Scientific Research. 
  • In 1958, the AEC was restructured within the DAE, and set up in 1954, under the direct charge of the Prime Minister. 
  • The Secretary of the DAE serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Commission, with other members appointed annually upon Prime Ministerial approval. 
  • The AEC formulates policies to promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy, empowering India through advancements in nuclear technology, healthcare, food security, and energy independence. 

Read more: Year End Review 2019: Department of Atomic Energy 

77th India Army Day

Source: IE 

Indian Army Day is celebrated annually on 15^th January to commemorate the appointment of General (later Field Marshal) K. M. Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949.  

• He succeeded British General Sir F. R. R. Bucher, marking a historic moment in India's post-independence military leadership. 
• 2025 Theme: 'Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena' (Capable India, Empowered Army). 
• Hosts: Pune hosts the Army Day parade for the first time, emphasizing its military significance.  
  • It is home to key establishments like the Southern Command, National Defence Academy (NDA), and DRDO facilities. 
• Year of Defence Reforms: The Indian government has declared 2025 as the "Year of Defence Reforms," aiming to integrate theatre commands, enhance tri-services synergy, streamline military procurement, and promote indigenous capabilities. 
• Armed Forces Veterans’ Day: Celebrated annually on 14th January to honor the service and sacrifices of Indian armed forces veterans.  
  • It marks the retirement of KM Cariappa in 1953.  
• Indian Navy Day: 4^th December. 
• Indian Air Force Day: 8^th October. 

Read More: Indian Army day