Cancer Cells' Resistance to Chemotherapy

For Prelims: Chemotherapy, Cancer, National Cancer Awareness Day,

For Mains: Government Initiatives related to Cancer, Scientific Innovations & Discoveries

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, a new study, published in Cell Reports carried out by researchers at the Netherlands Cancer Institute made a breakthrough in understanding why certain cancer cells resist a drug called anti-cancer drug (chemotherapeutic agents) Taxol.

• Their research has the potential to improve cancer treatment by finding ways to overcome this resistance, bringing hope to patients facing this formidable adversary.

What are the Key Highlights of the Study?

• Challenges of Chemotherapy:
  • Chemotherapy is a fundamental cancer treatment but poses significant challenges.
  • It involves the targeting of rapidly dividing cancer cells, often leading to programmed cell death or apoptosis.
    • However, this mechanism also affects non-cancerous cells. Any tissue with a significant number of normal cells that are also dividing, such as cells in the digestive tract, the bone marrow, and hair follicles are also affected by chemotherapeutic agents and suffer apoptosis.
    • This cell death underlies the unpleasant side-effects of chemotherapy, such as painful inflammation of the oral cavity and the gut, and nausea, diarrhoea, anaemia, and hair loss.
  • Striking a balance between effective cancer cell destruction and manageable side effects is a challenge faced by oncologists.
• Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs):
  • Researchers have developed ADCs as a more targeted approach for certain cancer types.
  • ADCs involve attaching drugs to antibodies designed to recognize proteins predominantly found in cancer cells.
    • This targeted delivery helps direct chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, reducing collateral damage.
• Chemotherapy Resistance:
  • Some cancer cells can evade the effects of chemotherapy, which may lead to a higher risk of cancer relapse.
    • The study focuses on understanding resistance to Taxol, a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent.
  • The Role of the ABCB1 Gene:
    • Resistance to Taxol is closely linked to the location of the ABCB1 gene within the cell's nucleus.
    • Sensitive cells exhibit different ABCB1 gene locations compared to resistant cells.
      • In resistant cells, the gene has detached from the nuclear envelope(membrane) and shifted deeper into the nucleus.
      • This relocation results in a remarkable 100-fold increase in RNA corresponding to the ABCB1 gene.
• P-gp Efflux Pump:
  • The increased RNA levels lead to the production of the P-gp efflux pump, which plays a pivotal role in chemotherapy resistance.
    • The P-gp pump effectively removes Taxol and other toxic compounds from the cell, preventing their accumulation at levels necessary to arrest cell division and trigger apoptosis. This allows cancer cells to persist.
• Identifying Lamin B Receptor (LBR):
  • Researchers sought to understand what anchors the ABCB1 gene to the nuclear envelope in sensitive cells.
    • The study identified the Lamin B Receptor (LBR) as a crucial protein influencing the ABCB1 gene's location and activation.
  • When LBR is absent, cells can activate the ABCB1 gene when exposed to Taxol. However, deleting the gene responsible for making LBR doesn't immediately increase ABCB1 expression; it requires exposure to Taxol. This indicates the involvement of additional factors in silencing ABCB1.
• Variability in Cancer Cell Responses:
  • The study highlights variations in how different types of cancer cells respond to the absence of LBR.
    • Some, like lung cancer cells, expressed high levels of ABCB1 RNA.
    • Depleting LBR in lung cancer cells didn't significantly increase Taxol resistance.
    • Breast cancer cells, on the other hand, showed an increased Taxol-resistant fraction after LBR depletion, unlike head and neck cancer cells.
  • This variability in responses of different cancer cells depends on LBR to varying degrees to tether genes to the nuclear envelope.

Chemotherapy

• It is a type of cancer treatment that uses powerful anti-cancer drugs to kill fast-growing cells in the body. Cancer cells grow and multiply much more quickly than most cells in the body.
• Chemotherapy can be used alone or in combination with other therapies, such as surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy.

Cancer

• It is a complex and broad term used to describe a group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body.
  • These abnormal cells, known as cancer cells, have the ability to invade and destroy healthy tissues and organs.
• In a healthy body, cells grow, divide, and die in a regulated manner, allowing for the normal functioning of tissues and organs.
  • However, in the case of cancer, certain genetic mutations or abnormalities disrupt this normal cell cycle, causing cells to divide and grow uncontrollably.
  • These cells can form a mass of tissue called a tumour.

What are the Government Initiatives Related to Cancer Treatment?

• National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke.
• National Cancer Grid.
• National Cancer Awareness Day.
• HPV Vaccine.

Contempt of Court

For Prelims: Contempt of Court, Supreme Court (SC), NCLAT (National Company Law Appellate Tribunal), Show Cause Notice, Chief Justice of India (CJI), Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.

For Mains: Contempt of Court, Structure, organization, and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary.

Source: IE

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) has started Contempt of Court Proceedings against two members of the NCLAT (National Company Law Appellate Tribunal).

• The court has issued show cause notices to the members for pronouncing a judgment in the Finolex Cables case despite directions from the SC to maintain the status quo in it.

Note

• A Show Cause Notice is a formal communication issued by a court, government agency, or another authoritative body to an individual or entity, asking them to explain or justify their actions, decisions, or behavior. The purpose of a show cause notice is to give the recipient an opportunity to provide a response or clarification regarding specific concerns or alleged violations.

What is the Case About?

• The SC had earlier directed the scrutinizer to declare the result of the Annual General Meeting of the Finolex Cables and asked NCLAT to pronounce its judgment after being informed of the result.
• However, NCLAT reportedly declared the judgment without acknowledging the SC's directive.
• The Chief Justice of India (CJI) expressed concerns about the functioning of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and NCLAT. He noted that these tribunals appear to have issues, and this case is an example of those issues.
• The SC expressed its displeasure with the NCLAT's handling of the case and stated that the NCLAT should have abided by the SC's orders.

What is Contempt of Court?

• About:
  • Contempt of court seeks to protect judicial institutions from motivated attacks and unwarranted criticism, and as a legal mechanism to punish those who lower its authority.
• Statutory Basis:
  • When the Constitution was adopted, contempt of court was made one of the restrictions on freedom of speech and expression under Article 19 (2) of the Constitution of India.
  • Separately, Article 129 of the Constitution conferred on the Supreme Court the power to punish contempt of itself. Article 215 conferred a corresponding power on the High Courts.
  • The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, gives statutory backing to the idea.
• Kinds of Contempt of Court:
  • Civil Contempt: It is the wilful disobedience to any judgment, decree, direction, order, writ or other process of a court or wilful breach of an undertaking given to a court.
  • Criminal Contempt: It is the publication of any matter or the doing of any other act which scandalises or lowers the authority of any court, or interferes with the due course of any judicial proceeding, or obstructs the administration of justice in any other manner.

Note

Fair and accurate reporting of judicial proceedings will not amount to contempt of court. Nor is any fair criticism on the merits of a judicial order after a case is heard and disposed of.

• Punishment:
  • The Contempt of Court Act of 1971 punishes the guilty with imprisonment that may extend to six months or fine of Rs 2,000 or both.
    • It was amended in 2006 to include “truth and good faith” as a defence.
    • It was added that the court may impose punishments only if the act of the other person substantially interferes, or tends to interfere with the due course of justice.

What is the Criticism of Contempt of Court Proceedings?

• It is criticized to be reminiscent of British colonialism in India as the contempt laws have been abolished from the United Kingdom itself.
• Demands have been raised to restrict contempt to only “wilful disobedience” of directions/judgments of the court and remove “scandalizing the court”.
• It is also said that it may lead to judicial overreach.
• There are high numbers of contempt cases pending in various High Courts and the Supreme Courts, which delays the justice administration by an already overburdened judiciary.

Way Forward

• Freedom of speech is the most fundamental of the fundamental rights and the restrictions thereupon have to be minimal.
  • The law of contempt of court can impose only such restrictions as are needed to sustain the legitimacy of the judicial institutions.
• Therefore, rules and guidelines must be framed defining the process that superior courts must employ while taking criminal contempt action, keeping in mind principles of natural justice and fairness

Legal Insights

Contempt of Court in India

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

Q. Consider the following statements: (2022)

1. Pursuant to the report of H.N. Sanyal Committee, the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 was passed.
2. The Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court and the High Courts to punish for contempt of themselves.
3. The Constitution of India defines Civil Contempt and Criminal Contempt.
4. In India, the Parliament is vested with the powers to make laws on Contempt of Court.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 3 only

Ans: (b)

Palliative Care

For Prelims: Palliative care, World Health Organization, Noncommunicable diseases, National Health Mission, Telemedicine

For Mains: Issues Related to Healthcare in India, Significance of Palliative Care.

Source: TH

Why in News?

A recent study has shed light on the overwhelming financial burden faced by patients grappling with serious illnesses.

• As the cost of treating life-limiting illnesses pushes individuals into poverty, palliative care becomes essential to address this critical issue and advocate for holistic patient-centered care.

What is Palliative Care?

• About:
  • Palliative care is a specialized approach to healthcare that focuses on improving the quality of life and providing comprehensive support to individuals facing serious illnesses or life-limiting conditions.
    • It is not about curing the disease but rather about addressing the physical, emotional, social needs of the patient.
    • It differs from other medical specialties as it addresses not only physical health but also social and economic realities.
• Significance:
  • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), palliative care is explicitly recognized under the human right to health.
    • It recognizes that palliative care is part of the comprehensive services required for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) through the Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs 2013–2020.
  • Early initiation of palliative care in advanced disease stages can reduce healthcare expenditure by up to 25%.
    • Also, palliative care emphasizes vocational rehabilitation and social reintegration, enabling patients and families to earn a living and maintain their dignity.

Note

WHO estimates that 56.8 million people need palliative care each year, including 25.7 million in the last year of life. In India, it's estimated that 5.4 million people need palliative care each year.

• Only about 14% of people who need palliative care receive it.

• Related Issues in India:
  • Inadequate Investment in Healthcare: Inadequate investment in India's healthcare system, including the insufficient fulfillment of basic infrastructure needs, has resulted in a backlog of palliative care services, limiting their availability and accessibility for patients with life-limiting illnesses.
    • Also, with only 1.35% of the GDP allocated to government health services (2019-20), patients bear most of the healthcare costs which leaves them at risk of bankruptcy, decreased satisfaction with treatment, delayed medical care, poor quality of life, and lower survival rates.
  • Limited Awareness and Understanding:
    • Among Patients and Families: Many individuals and their families are unaware of what palliative care entails and may associate it with end-of-life care only, leading to delayed or inadequate utilization.
      • Also, most insurance schemes in India do not cover palliative care, further limiting its accessibility.
    • Among Healthcare Providers: Even many healthcare professionals lack a clear understanding of palliative care, which result in insufficient referrals or integration into treatment plans.
  • Heterogeneous Healthcare Infrastructure: The healthcare infrastructure varies widely in India, with advanced healthcare facilities concentrated in urban areas and limited access to palliative care services in rural and remote regions.
    • However, even in urban areas, as palliative care does not generate revenue but saves costs, it is often neglected in the increasingly privatized Indian healthcare system.
• Palliative Care Programme in India:
  • While there is no dedicated budget for the National Palliative Care Program in India, it is included within the 'Mission Flexipool' under the National Health Mission (NHM).
  • Additionally, the National Program for Prevention & Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) launched in 2010 focuses on addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases by offering comprehensive healthcare services spanning promotive, preventive, and curative care across all levels of healthcare.

Way Forward

• Policy and Regulatory Framework: There is a need to develop and implement clear, uniform palliative care policies and regulations at both the national and state levels to guide the integration of palliative care services into the healthcare system.
• Public Awareness: Launching comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate both patients and healthcare providers about the benefits and scope of palliative care, dispelling myths and stigma associated with it.
  • Also, Integrating palliative care training into the curriculum of healthcare professionals, ensuring that medical schools, nursing programs, and other training institutions offer courses and practical experience in palliative care.
• Funding and Resource Allocation: Allocating specific and sufficient resources to the National Program for Palliative Care and ensuring that insurance schemes cover palliative care services.
• Leveraging Technology: Leveraging emerging technologies such as telemedicine, mobile health apps, and wearable devices to provide remote palliative care consultations and monitoring.

Odhuvars in Tamil Nadu

For Prelims: Odhuvars, Saivite, Pathigams, Tirumurai, Thevaram, Avvaiyar, Bhakti Tradition

For Mains: Recognition of Odhuvars will legitimize the age-old tradition and benefit the community at large.

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, Tamil Nadu government handed over appointment orders to 15 Odhuvars (among them five are women), who were assigned to Shaivite temples in the Chennai region as they serve the deities by singing the hymns and praise.

Who are Odhuvars in Tamil Nadu?

• About:
  • Odhuvars sing devotional hymns in Tamil Nadu’s Hindu temples but are not priests. They are in the service of Lord Shiva by singing his praise from Thirumurai in Saivite temples. They sing devotional hymns but do not enter the sanctum sanctorum.
• Origin of Odhuvars:
  • The tradition of Odhuvars can be traced back to ancient times, with its roots firmly embedded in the Bhakti movement, which flourished between the 6th and 9th centuries in Tamil Nadu.
  • During this period, several saint-poets known as Alwars and Nayanars composed devotional hymns in praise of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, respectively. The Odhuvars emerged as custodians of this rich musical and devotional heritage.

Alvars and Nayanars: The Saints of Tamil Bhakti Tradition

• Alvars:
  • Devotion to Lord Vishnu: The Alvars were a group of twelve Vaishnava (devotees of Lord Vishnu) saint-poets. Their compositions primarily centered on their deep devotion to Lord Vishnu and emphasized the concept of surrender (prapatti) to attain salvation.
  • Poetic Works: The Alvars' devotional hymns and poems were collected in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a significant Vaishnavite scripture. These hymns were composed in the Tamil language and celebrated the divine qualities and forms of Lord Vishnu.
• Nayanars:
  • Devotion to Lord Shiva: The Nayanars were a group of sixty-three Shaiva (devotees of Lord Shiva) saint-poets. They were deeply devoted to Lord Shiva and composed hymns and poems in praise of him, emphasizing the path of bhakti (devotion) and love for the divine.
  • Poetic Works: The Nayanars' hymns and poems were collected in the Thirumurai, a corpus of Shaivite scriptures. These compositions, written in Tamil, celebrated the various manifestations and attributes of Lord Shiva.

What is the Significance of Odhuvars in Present Context ?

• Religious Significance: Odhuvars continue to hold a crucial place in the daily and festive rituals of Tamil Nadu temples. They are responsible for reciting Thevaram and Thiruvasagam, two ancient Tamil texts filled with hymns and praises for Lord Shiva.
• Community Engagement: Odhuvars often come from marginalized communities, and their role in temples offers economic opportunities. Moreover, their performances bring the local community together, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
• Preservation of Tamil Language: Odhuvars contribute to the preservation of the Tamil language. Through their recitations, they ensure that the ancient Tamil texts are understood and appreciated by successive generations.
• Promotion of Devotion: Odhuvars help create a devotional atmosphere within the temples. Their soul-stirring renditions instill a sense of piety and spiritual connection among the worshippers.

What are the Challenges and Issues of Odhuvars in Tamil Nadu?

• Economic Vulnerability:
  • Many Odhuvar families struggle to make ends meet, as their income depends largely on temple donations and offerings. This economic vulnerability can lead to the decline of the tradition.
• Lack of Recognition:
  • The Odhuvars' contribution to temple rituals and preservation of Tamil culture often goes unnoticed. They receive limited recognition, which can be demotivating.
• Declining Interest:
  • The younger generation may not be as interested in continuing the tradition, as it can be financially unstable and offers limited social prestige. This raises concerns about the continuity of the tradition.
• Technology and Modernization:
  • The advent of recorded music and modernization has altered the way people consume religious and devotional content. Odhuvars may find it challenging to compete with digital media and contemporary musical forms.
• Lack of Institutional Support:
  • Recognised government institutions like Sangeet Natak Academy etc have been non-committal to Odhuvar’s concerns as their expertise and competence in the field can alleviate the suffering of the community.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question:(PYQ)

Prelims

Q 1. With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is ‘Kalaripayattu’? (2014)

(a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India

(b) It is an ancient style bronze and brasswork still found in southern part of Coromandel area

(c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar

(d) It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

Answer: D

Q 2. With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements: (2016)

1. Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
2. Lingayats of Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Mains:

Q 1. Evaluate the nature of Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture.(2021)

Q 2. The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.(2018)

Mysterious Cells in Human Brain

For Prelims: Mysterious Cells in Human Brain, Neurons, Brain Atlas, Brain Cells, Cerebrum, Cerebral Cortex, Synapses.

For Mains: Mysterious Cells in Human Brain, Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life, Achievements of Indians in science & technology.

Why in News?

Recently, an international team of scientists has released a Brain Atlas, mapping the Human Brain in much finer resolution than ever before.

• The brain atlas has identified more than 3,300 types of brain cells.
• The researchers utilized cutting-edge technologies to examine millions of human brain cells obtained from biopsied tissue or cadavers.

What are the Key Highlights of the Brain Atlas?

• Understanding Brain Cells:
  • Many new types of neurons were found, but neurons make up only about half the cells in the brain. The other half are far more mysterious.
    • Neuron cells use electric signals and chemicals to process information.
  • Astrocytes, for example, appear to nurture neurons so that they can keep working properly.
  • Microglia serve as immune cells, attacking foreign invaders and pruning some of the branches on neurons to improve their signaling.
    • And the researchers found many new types of these cells as well.
• Vast Diversity of Brain Cells:
  • Much of the brain's diversity is situated outside the cerebral cortex, challenging previous notions.
    • Cerebral cortex is the outer layer that lies on top of the cerebrum. Cerebrum is the largest area of the brain. Cerebrum divides the brain into two halves called hemispheres. The hemispheres are attached by a bundle of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum.
  • A vast number of the cell types uncovered in the project lie in the deeper regions of the brain, such as the brain stem that leads to the spinal cord.
• Genetic Variations and Evolution:
  • Comparison with brains of other species, including chimpanzees and gorillas, revealed that all cell types in human brains matched those found in our closest primate relatives.
  • However, specific genes that become more or less active in humans compared to other apes were identified. Many of these genes are linked to building connections (synapses) between neurons.

What are the Implications of This Study?

• This research offers an extensive dataset for future studies, presenting a remarkable advancement in neuroscience.
• However, understanding the intricacies of the human brain entails not just cataloging its components but also comprehending it as a self-regulating system.

CBDT Directives on Angel Tax

Source: IE

Why in News?

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued a directive aimed at ensuring that Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recognized start-ups are not burdened with unnecessary scrutiny under the revised angel tax provisions in the Finance Act, 2023.

What are the New Tax Directives Related to Start-ups?

• The CBDT has directed its officers to refrain from scrutinizing the angel tax provisions for start-ups that have received recognition from the DPIIT.
  • This directive comes in response to concerns raised by many start-ups regarding scrutiny notices for angel tax.
• The CBDT has outlined two scenarios regarding recognized start-ups under scrutiny:
  • Single-Issue Scrutiny: In cases where scrutiny is initiated solely to determine the applicability of Section 56 (2) (viib) of the Income-tax Act, Assessing Officers will not conduct any verification during the assessment proceedings.
    • Instead, the contention of the recognized start-up regarding the issue will be summarily accepted.
  • Multiple-Issue Scrutiny:When a recognized start-up is under scrutiny for multiple issues, including the one under Section 56 (2) (viib) of the Income-tax Act, the applicability of the angel tax provision will not be pursued during the assessment proceedings.

What is Angel Tax?

• Angel tax is an income tax levied at the rate of 30.6% when an unlisted company issues shares to an investor at a price higher than its fair market value.
  • Fair market value is the price of an asset when buyer and seller have reasonable knowledge of it and are willing to trade without pressure.
• Initially, angel tax was applicable only to investments made by resident investors. The Finance Act, 2023 extended this provision to include foreign investors as well.
  • This means that when a start-up raises funding from a foreign investor, it will also be counted as income and subjected to taxation.
    • However, DPIIT-recognized start-ups are now excluded from the angel tax levy.

Note

In May 2023, the Finance Ministry exempted investors from 21 countries, such as the US, UK, and France, from the angel tax levy for non-resident investments in Indian start-ups.

What are the Other Major Government’s Initiatives Related to Startups?

• National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI)
• Startup India Action Plan (SIAP)
• Ranking of States on Support to Startup Ecosystems (RSSSE)
• Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

What is the Central Board of Direct Taxes?

• It operates as a statutory authority established by the Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963.
  • It forms an integral component of the Department of Revenue within the Ministry of Finance.
• It contributes to the formulation of policies and planning related to direct taxation in India and oversees the enforcement of direct tax laws through the Income Tax Department.
  • Direct taxes encompass income tax, corporation tax, and similar categories.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Q. What does venture capital mean? (2014)

(a) A short-term capital provided to industries
(b) A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs
(c) Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses
(d) Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries

Ans: (b)

Explanation:

• Venture capital is a form of fund for a new or growing business. It usually comes from venture capital firms that specialize in building high risk financial portfolios.
• With venture capital, the venture capital firm gives funding to the startup company in exchange for equity in the startup.
• The people who invest this money are called venture capitalists (VCs). Venture capital investment is also referred as risk capital or patient risk capital, as it includes the risk of losing the money if the venture does not succeed and takes a medium to long term period for the investments to fructify.
• Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

Rafah Crossing

Source: IE

Why in News?

The Rafah border crossing in southern Gaza has gained global attention as Palestinians are attempting to leave Gaza in anticipation of a possible Israeli attack as part of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

What is Rafah Crossing?

• About:
  • The Rafah crossing is the southernmost exit point from the Gaza Strip, and it shares a border with Egypt's Sinai Peninsula.
    • The crossing is controlled by Egypt.
  • It is the only exit that does not lead to Israeli territory.
  • There are only two other border crossings in and out of Gaza:
    • Erez is located in the north and is used by people in Israel.
    • Kerem Shalom, in the south, which is exclusively for commercial goods.
      • Both Erez and Kerem Shalom controlled by Israel are currently closed.
• Importance:
  • The Rafah crossing gained heightened importance after Hamas's assault on the Erez crossing, resulting in over 1,300 casualties in southern Israel.
    • In response, Israel closed both Erez and Kerem Shalom indefinitely, leaving the Rafah border as the sole means of entry and exit for Gaza's people and the only crossing for humanitarian aid.

Egypt's Sinai Peninsula

• The Sinai Peninsula is a triangle-shaped peninsula in Egypt. It's located in the northeastern part of the country.
• The peninsula is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Red Sea to the south, and the Gulf of Aqaba to the east.
• The peninsula includes the Suez Canal, which is a man-made waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q1. Yom Kippur War was fought between which sides/ countries? (2008)

(a) Turkey and Greece
(b) Serbs and Croats
(c) Israel, and Arab countries led by Egypt and Syria
(d) Iran and Iraq

Ans: (c)

Q2. The Mediterranean Sea is a border of which of the following countries? (2017)

1. Jordan
2. Iraq
3. Lebanon
4. Syria

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Ans: (c)

Q3. Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea? (2015)

(a) Syria
(b) Jordan
(c) Lebanon
(d) Israel

Ans: (b)

Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has notified the Amendments to the Aircraft Rules, 1937, aiming to promote Safety and Ease of Doing Business in Aviation Regulation.

• These amendments align India’s aviation regulations with the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) and international best practices.

What are the Key Amendments to the Aircraft Rules, 1937?

• Extension of License Validity:
  • The amendment extended the validity of Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL) holders' licenses from five years to ten years.
  • This change is expected to streamline the licensing process and reduce administrative burdens on pilots and aviation authorities like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
• Enhanced Control Over False Lights:
  • The revision clarified the definition of "light" to include various sources and extended the government's jurisdiction from 5 kilometers to 5 nautical miles around an aerodrome.
  • It empowered the government to take action against individuals displaying lights disrupting aircraft operation, and in case of unattended lights, the government can intervene and report the matter to the relevant authorities for legal action under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
• Removal of Redundant Rule:
  • Rule 118, pertaining to the validation of foreign licenses, was removed to align regulations with the evolving needs of the aviation sector.
• Liberalized Requirements for Air Traffic Controller License:
  • The amendment introduced flexibility in recency and competency requirements for Air Traffic Controller License holders, allowing for simulated exercises, emergencies, and skill assessments.
  • This ensures continued competence, particularly during limited movements or watch hours.

What are the Significance of these Amendment Rules?

• The amendments can play a crucial role in enhancing aviation safety by addressing concerns related to the display of "false lights" around aerodromes.
• The extended jurisdiction and clarified definitions ensure a safer operational environment, reducing potential hazards and disruptions to aircraft operations.
• The streamlined licensing process and the removal of redundant rules can contribute to a more business-friendly environment, attracting investment and fostering growth in the aviation industry.

What is the ICAO?

• It is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was created in 1944 to promote safe, secure, and efficient air transportation around the world.
• ICAO develops international standards and recommended practices for aviation, including regulations for air navigation, communication, and airport operations.
• It also works to address global aviation issues, such as air traffic management, aviation security, and environmental protection.
• It is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.

Rapid Fire Current Affairs

Green Energy Corridor Phase-II – Inter-State Transmission System

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, has approved the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase-II - Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) for a 13 GW Renewable Energy Project in Ladakh.

• The project is aimed to be set up by FY 2029-30. Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) will be the Implementing Agency.
• The project will contribute to achieving the target of 500 GW of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuels by year 2030. Promote ecologically sustainable growth by reducing carbon footprint.
• The project will generate large direct & indirect employment opportunities especially in the Ladakh region.
• This project is in addition to Intra-State Transmission System Green Energy Corridor Phase-II (InSTS GEC-II), already underway in several states for grid integration and power evacuation of approximately. 20GW of RE power and is expected to be completed by 2026.

Read more: Green Energy Corridor

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IBM to Boost India's Tech Advancements

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) has announced the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with entities associated with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to drive innovation in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductor technology, and quantum technology in India.

• These collaborations aim to expedite India's national strategy for AI, bolster self-sufficiency in semiconductor technology, and advance the National Quantum Mission.
• The partnerships involve establishing a National AI Innovation Platform (AIIP) to foster AI skills and development, a semiconductor research center to promote innovation in semiconductor technologie.

Read more: India's Science and Technology Innovation Ecosystem