Drishti 2023 Science and Technology Mains

1 MAINS MARATHON 2023 (SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY) www.drishtiias.
com/eng
Drishti IAS
Mains
M arathon 2023
Important Q & A for Mains
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
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1 MAINS MARATHON 2023 (SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY) www.drishtiias.com/eng
1. Genetically Modified crops play a significant role often adds or mixes proteins that were not
in enhancing productivity, fight against hunger and indigenous to the original animal or plant, which
malnutrition. Critically analyze? (250 words) might cause new allergic reactions in our body.
Cross-pollination: Cross-pollination can cover
Approach:
quite large distances, where new genes can be
¾ Introduce by briefly explaining GM crops. included in the offspring of organic, traditional
¾ Discuss its beneficial role in increasing productivity plants or crops that are miles away. This can result
and reducing malnutrition. in difficulty in distinguishing which crop fields are
¾ Discuss various challenges of GM crops. organic and which are not, posing a problem to the
¾ Conclude accordingly. task of properly labeling non-GMO food products.
Potential adverse impact on human health: The
Introduction: impact of growing GMO crops like GM mustard
¾ Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) are defined on the health of the population, the environment
as organisms including plants, animals, and micro- (the soil on which it is grown), the food chain, the
organisms in which the genetic material (DNA) is groundwater, etc., is still unknown.
altered in a way that does not occur naturally by
Conclusion:
mating or natural recombination.
¾ GM crops can help India to improve their living standards
Body: which will reflect in human development. It will also
¾ Benefits of GM crops in increasing agricultural output help India to ensure food security, decreasing hunger
and removing hunger, malnutrition: and malnutrition to fulfill its international obligation
of achieving sustainable development goals and
Climate resilient: Sometimes it is necessary to
increase farmer’s income and agricultural export,
develop crops that can sustain in adverse climatic
but there is need for proper research on its adverse
conditions. This will enable farmer to save himself
impact on human and environment health on the basis
from losses that occur due to crop losses. Ex: Water
of scientific evidence. Therefore, there is a need for
resistant paddy can tackle incessant rain.
participatory approach in order to bring together all
Increase farm output: New crops developed using
stakeholders to develop regulatory protocols.
biotechnology have the capacity to produce more
2. Despite having definite foundational objectives in
output per area compared to conventional species.
respective fields, the ISRO as an organisation
This means that more production from small land proved more successful than the DRDO. Discuss.
and subsequent increase in profits. (150 words)
Increase nutrient value of crops: The GM crops
are drought tolerant and can develop nutrient Approach:
efficient varieties. Further, it can help produce ¾ Introduce the answer by mentioning the vision of
foods with better shelf life, taste and texture. the two institutions and how they fared in achieving
z Further, crops can even be engineered to be their respective goals
more nutritious, providing critical vitamins to ¾ Highlight the main reasons why ISRO became more
populations that struggle to get specific nutrients successful than DRDO
needed for healthy living.
¾ Conclude on a positive note while mentioning the
Reduce pesticides: Pests are major threat to farm need for reforms in DRDO
economy than other sources. To eliminate major
threats to crops, scientists have come up with Introduction:
innovative methods using biotechnology to help
ISRO and DRDO are the two institutions conceived
in elimination of pests.
in independent India with the vision of making our new
¾ Challenges of GM crops: nation an advanced space power and achieving self-
Allergic Reactions: It states that genetic modification reliance in defence technology respectively. However,
Note:
after decades of their establishment, while ISRO has grown Conclusion:

as an eminent space agency at the global stage, DRDO Although ISRO’s success story dwarfs DRDO, one
continues to look for the same success story. cannot deny the success of DRDO in terms of making
India capable of developing indigenous missile technology
Body:
and other essential defence equipment for example-
Reasons for ISRO achieving greater success than development of Supersonic Cruise Missile ‘BrahMos’,
DRDO - Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’, Airborne Early Warning &
¾ After its constitution in 1969, ISRO was placed under Control (AEW&C), etc. However, DRDO needs to bring
the Department of Space (DOS) in 1972 and Space reforms in its organisational structure, functioning and
commission was set up for formulating policy and seeing work culture where ISRO could offer itself as a role model.
its implementation. This entire structure functioned In the present context, it is important to establish ISRO
directly under the aegis of the Prime Minister, and DRDO both as a valuable asset for rising India.
which saved ISRO from cumbersome bureaucratic 3. What are the unique features of James Webb
procedures. For instance, ISRO’s current chairman telescope which makes it superior to its predecessor
K.Sivan is also chairman of the Space Commission Space Telescopes? What are the key goals of this
and Secretary of DOS. mission? What potential benefits does it hold for
¾ ISRO’s structural organisation promotes vertical the human race? (250 words)
integration between policymakers, who are in a position
to understand the nature of the long-term projects Approach:
ISRO undertakes and those delivering the end results. ¾ Introduce in brief about James Webb telescope.
In Contrast with this, the DRDO, which functions ¾ Discuss its superiority over predecessor telescopes.
under the Ministry of Defence and is entrenched in ¾ Elaborate James Webb’s key goals and potential
the bureaucratic culture, suffers delays in project benefits to humans.
clearances and fund acquisition.
¾ Conclude accordingly.
¾ ISRO also benefited from the presence of specialists
and technocrats, starting from Vikram Sarabhai Introduction:
himself at the upper echelons of the organisation.
¾ James Webb telescope is the result of an international
DRDO, on the other hand, lacked such expertise in
collaboration between NASA, the European Space
its formative years.
Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency which
¾ Despite several impediments, ISRO has been able to was launched in December 2021.
work with the international scientific community since
¾ It is currently at a point in space known as the Sun-
inception. This has been a through-line from the first
Earth L2 Lagrange point, approximately 1.5 million
component of the space programme, the Thumba
km beyond Earth’s orbit around the Sun.
Equatorial Rocket Launching Station to the agreement
between ISRO and the US’ National Aeronautics and ¾ It’s the largest, most powerful infrared space telescope
Space Administration (NASA) to work on future joint ever built.
missions to Mars. The DRDO, on the other hand, faced ¾ It’s the successor to Hubble Telescope.
far greater barriers here. This has partly to do with ¾ Its advanced equipment can look backwards in time
geopolitics and international restrictions on sharing to just after the Big Bang (birth of universe) by looking
defense-related technology during the Cold War and for distant galaxies that are so far away that the light
thereafter. has taken many billions of years to get from those
¾ Another difference is accountability in the form of galaxies to our telescopes.
outcome budgets mandated in 2005-06. While DOS
submits an outcome budget that contains a detailed Body:
breakdown of ISRO projects while DRDO which ¾ Special Features of James Webb:
functions under Ministry of Defence is exempted The JWST will observe primarily in the infrared
from such accountability. range and provide coverage from 0.6 to 28 microns.
Note:
The instruments on its predecessor Hubble

4. What are Microbial Fuel Cells? Discuss its possible
telescope see mainly in the ultraviolet and visible applications in various fields. (150 words)
part of the spectrum. It could observe only a small
range in the infrared from 0.8 to 2.5 microns. Approach:
z Whereas, Webb’s primary mirror has a diameter ¾ Briefly explain what is Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC)
of 6.5 metres while Hubble’s mirror was much ¾ Mention its potential as a clean fuel over other
smaller – 2.4 metres in diameter. conventional fuel
¾ Key goals of the James Webb telescope: ¾ Conclude suitably
It will examine every phase of cosmic history:
from the Big Bang to the formation of galaxies, Introduction:
stars, and planets to the evolution of our own A microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a device that converts
Solar System. chemical energy to electrical energy by the action of
The goals for the Webb can be grouped into four microorganisms. It is a bio-electrochemical system that
themes. uses bacteria as the catalyst to oxidize organic and
z The first is to look back around 13.5 billion years
inorganic matter, and consequently, generate electric
to see the first stars and galaxies forming out current out of it. It has applications in various fields such
of the darkness of the early universe. as power generation systems, bio-recovery, waste-water
treatment, etc.
z Second, to compare the faintest, earliest galaxies
to today’s grand spirals and understand how Body:
galaxies assemble over billions of years.
¾ MFCs are attractive for power generation applications
z Third, to see where stars and planetary systems
that require only low power, where replacing batteries
are being born.
may be impractical such as wireless sensor networks.
z Fourth, to observe the atmospheres of extrasolar
Wireless sensors, powered by microbial fuel cells can
planets (beyond our solar system), and perhaps then, for example, be used for remote monitoring.
find the building blocks of life elsewhere in the
¾ It is the only technology that can generate energy out
universe.
of waste, without the input of external/additional
Potential benefits to humans:
energy, and this renders MFCs suitable for remote
z It will reveal new and unexpected discoveries, area access via the robotics route or remote power
and help humanity understand the origins of generation.
the universe and our place in it. ¾ MFC can be used as a convenient biosensor for
z The telescope will study the atmospheres of a wastewater streams. Wastewater is evaluated based
wide diversity of exoplanets. on the amount of dissolved oxygen required by aerobic
z It will also search for atmospheres like Earth’s, bacteria to break down the organic contaminants
and for the signatures of key substances such present in a body of water. The richer the wastewater
as methane, water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and stream is, the greater the current an MFC can provide.
complex organic molecules, in hopes of finding ¾ The use of MFC is not only enclosed to electricity
the building blocks of life. production and wastewater treatment it has also
been expanded to produce clean energy fuel like
Conclusion: hydrogen and desalination process.
James Webb’s state of the art instruments make it ¾ Moreover, this emerging technology is significantly
ideal to search for evidence of potentially life-supporting devoted to alleviating the environmental stress
atmospheres around many of the newly documented associated with the emission of greenhouse gases
exoplanets and to observe worlds of Mars and Saturn’s into the environment. It can act as an alternative to
icy moon Titan, thus, making it open a whole new world reduce the burden of an increased energy crisis and
of information about the universe and will bring about meet societal needs.
a revolution in the astronomical world.
Note:
Conclusion: ¾ The basic properties of quantum computing are

superposition, entanglement, and interference.
MFCs is still a nascent technology but through
continuous research and development in such Superposition:
technologies, we may find solutions to our global z It is the ability of a quantum system to be in
environmental problems. Hence, MFCs can play a role in multiple states simultaneously.
the future for the next generations. z The example of superposition is the flip of a coin,
which consistently lands as heads or tails—a
very binary concept. However, when that coin
is in mid-air, it is both heads and tails and until
it lands, heads and tails simultaneously. Before
measurement, the electron exists in quantum
superposition.
Entanglement:
z It means the two members of a pair (Qubits)

exist in a single quantum state. Changing the
state of one of the qubits will instantaneously
change the state of the other one in a predictable
5. Quantum Computing has become very famous in way. This happens even if they are separated
recent years. In light of this statement discuss the by very long distances.
various uses of Quantum Computing. z Einstein called spooky ‘action at a distance’.
Interference:
Approach:
z Quantum interference states that elementary
¾ Start your answer by giving a brief about Quantum
particles (Qubits) can not only be in more
Technology.
than one place at any given time (through
¾ Give a brief about the Properties of Quantum superposition), but that an individual particle,
Computing. such as a photon (light particles) can cross its
¾ Discuss the applications of Quantum computing. own trajectory and interfere with the direction
¾ Discuss some challenges related to Quantum computing. of its path.
¾ Conclude your answer by giving a way forward.
Applications of Quantum Technology:
Introduction ¾ Secure Communication: China recently demonstrated
Quantum Technology is based on the principles of secure quantum communication links between
Quantum mechanics that was developed in the early 20th terrestrial stations and satellites. This area is significant
century to describe nature at the scale of atoms and to satellites, military and cyber security among others
elementary particles. as it promises unimaginably fast computing and safe,
The first phase of this revolutionary technology has unhackable satellite communication to its users.
provided the foundations of our understanding of the ¾ Research: It can help in solving some of the fundamental
physical world, including the interaction of light and questions in physics related to gravity, black hole
matter, and led to ubiquitous inventions such as lasers etc. Similarly, the quantum initiative could give a big
and semiconductor transistors. boost to the Genome India project, a collaborative
A second revolution is currently underway with the effort of 20 institutions to enable new efficiencies in
goal of putting properties of quantum mechanics in the life sciences, agriculture and medicine.
realms of computing. ¾ Disaster Management: Tsunamis, drought, earthquakes
and floods may become more predictable with quantum
Main Body applications. The collection of data regarding climate
Properties of Quantum Computing: change can be streamlined in a better way through
quantum technology.
Note:
¾ Pharmaceutical: Quantum computing could reduce They use hydrogen as a fuel to drive an electrochemical
the time frame of the discovery of new molecules process that produces electricity, with water and heat
and related processes to a few days from the present as the only by-products.
10-year slog that scientists put in. Hydrogen is one of the most abundant elements on
¾ Augmenting Industrial revolution 4.0: Quantum earth for a cleaner alternative fuel option.
computing is an integral part of Industrial revolution The National Hydrogen Energy Mission (NHM) was
4.0. Success in it will help in Strategic initiatives launched in the Union Budget for 2021-22 to promote
aimed at leveraging other Industrial revolution 4.0 hydrogen production and its uses.
technologies like the Internet-of-Things, machine
learning, robotics, and artificial intelligence across Main Body
sectors will further help in laying the foundation of Significance of Hydrogen fuel cells:
the Knowledge economy. ¾ Best Zero Emission Solutions: It is one of the best
Zero Emission solutions. It is completely environment
Challenges Associated with
friendly with no tailpipe emissions other than water.
Quantum Computing:
¾ Quiet operation: The fact that the fuel cells make
¾ The dark side of quantum computing is the disruptive little noise means that they can be used in challenging
effect that it can have on cryptographic encryption, contexts, such as in hospital buildings.
which secures communications and computers. ¾ Easier scaling: Operation times of fuel cells are longer
¾ It might pose a challenge for the government also than those of batteries, with fuel cells, only the
because if this technology goes into the wrong hands, amount of fuel needs to be doubled to double the
all the government’s official and confidential data will operation time, while batteries require the capacity of
be at a risk of being hacked and misused. the components to be doubled to achieve the same.
Way Forward Issues associated with Hydrogen fuel cells:

¾ Long after the birth of social media and artificial ¾ High Cost: Green hydrogen makes up only 0.03% of
intelligence, there are now demands to regulate global hydrogen production and it is up to five times
them. It would be prudent to develop a regulatory more expensive than ‘grey’ hydrogen produced from
framework for quantum computing before it becomes natural gas or worse, ‘brown’ hydrogen produced
widely available. from coal.
¾ It will be better to regulate it or define the limits of its ¾ Hydrogen Storage: Storage and transportation of
legitimate use, nationally and internationally, before hydrogen is more complex than that required for
the problem gets out of hand like nuclear technology. fossil fuels. This implies additional costs to consider
6. Despite Hydrogen fuel cells (HFCs) having many for hydrogen fuel cells as a source of energy.
advantages, there are some concerns as well. ¾ Hydrogen Extraction: Despite being the most abundant
Discuss. (150 Words) element in the Universe, hydrogen does not exist
on its own so needs to be extracted from water via
Approach:
electrolysis or separated from carbon fossil fuels.
¾ Start your answer by giving a brief about Hydrogen
Both of these processes require a significant
fuel cells (HFCs).
amount of energy to achieve. This energy can be
¾ Discuss the significance of Hydrogen fuel cells (HFCs). more than that gained from the hydrogen itself
¾ Discuss the issues with Hydrogen fuel cells (HFCs). as well as being expensive.
¾ Conclude your answer by giving a way forward. In addition, this extraction typically requires the
use of fossil fuels, which in the absence of carbon
Introduction capture and storage (CCS) undermines the green
Hydrogen fuel cells are a clean, reliable, quiet, and credentials of hydrogen.
efficient source of high-quality electric power.
Way Forward
Note:
¾ Another alternative that many hydrogen councils across medicine, the diseases are classified and treated as
the world are pushing for is ‘blue’ hydrogen, which is per prior set uniform criteria.
grey hydrogen coupled with additional installations ¾ Misleading Propaganda by Ayurvedic Pharmas: The
for carbon capture and storage incorporated into the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia industry claimed that its
production facility. manufacturing practices were consistent with the
This way, up to 90% of the CO2 emitted during classic Ayurveda texts. For better market appeal of
hydrogen production can be captured for reuse ayurvedic medicines, the pharmaceutical companies
or storage and prevented from escaping into the publicized many medicinal claims about their ayurvedic
atmosphere. products without sufficient scientific basis. This led
7. Even though Ayurveda is currently gaining to further obsession for drugs in the community and
popularity, there are still certain impediments. ailments requiring lifestyle correction were instead
Discuss (150 Words) treated with poly-pharmacy.
Approach: Way Forward

¾ Start your answer by giving a brief about Ayurveda. ¾ Reverse Pharmacology: It is defined as the science
¾ Discuss the key challenges associated with Ayurveda. of integrating documented clinical experiences
¾ Conclude your answer by giving a way forward. and experiential observations into leads, through
transdisciplinary exploratory studies, to develop
Introduction these into drugs.
Ayurveda, India’s traditional medicine, has been in ¾ New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership
practice for close to 3,000 years and has been serving Initiative (NMITLI): It seeks to build, capture and retain
the healthcare needs of millions of Indians. Currently, for India a leadership position by synergising the best
it is greatly emphasised by the present government competencies of publicly funded R&D institutions,
through various programmes and schemes like National academia and private industry.
Ayush Mission, Aahaar Kranti Mission, New Portals on ¾ Emulating Kerala Model: Kerala has been promoting
Ayush Sector, ACCR Portal and Ayush Sanjivani App, etc. Ayurveda as a way of improving immunity in the general
population. It promotes Ayurvedic formulations and
Main Body recommends Ayurveda practices to all demographics
Key Challenges faced by Ayurveda in the Modern World of its population.
¾ Outdated Ideas: On benefits of physical exercise, 8. “Indian Biological Data Bank will reduce the
Ayurveda states “A sense of ease, improved fitness, dependency of Indian researchers on
easy digestion, ideal body-weight, and handsomeness American and European data banks.” In the
of bodily features are the benefits that would accrue light of the statement, discuss key features
from regular exercise.” However, such continued of indigenous data bank centre. (250 words)
validity cannot be claimed for the physiological and Approach:
pathological conjectures the same text contains.
¾ Describe in brief about Indian Biological Data Bank.
¾ Ineffective Treatment in Emergency Cases: The
inadequacies of Ayurveda in treating acute infections ¾ Discuss briefly about its significance in reducing
and other emergencies including surgery, and lack India’s dependency on American or European
of meaningful research in therapeutics continue to banks.
limit the universal acceptance of Ayurveda. Ayurveda ¾ Discuss the key features of Indian Biological Bank.
therapeutics are complex and there are too many ¾ Conclude accordingly.
dos and don’ts.
¾ Lack of Homogeneity: The medical practices in Ayurveda Introduction:
are not uniform. It is because the medicinal plants ¾ Recently, government has set up ‘Indian Biological
used in it vary with geography and climate and local Data Bank’ at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology
agriculture practices. Unlike Ayurveda, in modern (RCB), Faridabad.
Note:
¾ It is the first national repository for life science data of its citizen as well as for humanity.
in India, where the data will not only be submitted 9. “Starlink will change the internet connectivity “.
from across India but can be accessed by researchers Discuss the utility of the project in bringing remote
from across India. connectivity. (250 words)
Body: Approach
¾ Significance in reducing India’s dependency on ¾ Start your answer with describing Project Starlink.
foreign banks: ¾ Discuss the utility of Starlink in helping remote
The indigenous data bank will reduce the connectivity.
dependency of Indian researchers on American ¾ Conclude accordingly.
and European data banks and help in protecting
the critical data of our citizens, otherwise data Introduction
would be left at the mercy of foreign banks to ¾ It is a SpaceX project to build a broadband network
access and exploit critical data of Indian citizens. with a cluster of orbiting spacecrafts that could
It will not only provide a platform to researchers eventually number in thousands.
to securely store their data within the country, it ¾ The Starlink satellites carry Hall thrusters, which use
will also provide access to a large database of electricity and krypton gas to generate an impulse,
indigenous sequences for analyses. to manoeuvre in orbit, maintain altitude and guide
¾ Key features of Indian Biological Data Bank (IBDC): the spacecraft back into the atmosphere at the end
The digitised data will be stored on a four-petabyte of their mission.
supercomputer called ‘Brahm’. ¾ Starlink will be positioned in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
Different sections of IBDC would typically deal around 500km-2000km from earth, compared to
with particular type(s) of life science data. stationary orbit satellites which are approximately
IBDC has a backup data ‘Disaster Recovery’ site 36,000km away.
at NIC.
Body
Further, IBDC shall also develop highly curated data
sets in order to facilitate knowledge discovery in ¾ Utility of Starlink Project:
various domains of life sciences. Low Latency: Latency, or the time needed for data

It would also provide infrastructure and expertise to be sent and received, is contingent on proximity.
for biological data analysis. z As LEO satellites orbit closer to the earth, they
It will also help researchers in studying zoonotic are able to provide stronger signals and faster
diseases. speeds than traditional fixed-satellite systems.
Although the database currently only accepts z Additionally, because signals travel faster through
such genomic sequences, it is likely to expand space than through fibre-optic cables, they also
later to storage of protein sequences and imaging have the potential to rival if not exceed existing
data such as copies of Ultrasound and Magnetic ground-based networks.
Resonance Imaging (MRI). Coverage: The signals from one geostationary
It is mandated to archive all life science data in satellite can cover roughly a third of the planet
IBDC generated from publicly funded research — and three to four satellites would be enough
in India. to cover the entire Earth.
Easier Connectivity: As satellites appear to be
Conclusion: stationary, it is easier to link to them.
¾ The establishment of Indian Biological Data Bank ¾ Issue related to satellite-based broadband:
would provide IT platform for perpetually archiving Increase Space Debris: Due to an increase in space
biological data in the country and helps India in debris and an increased risk of collision, these
transforming biotechnologically for the betterment constellations of Internet satellites will make it
Note:
impossible to observe other space objects and the current level to meet this rising demand.
distinguish their signals. According to industry estimates, India currently
Hindrance of Bad weather: Weather conditions has 40+ start-ups working on space and satellite
have an impact on how satellite internet signals projects and this number is likely to increase.
travel. Storms, rain, and strong winds may result in Cost-effective: The private sector would ensure
a weak signal and prevent the Earth from receiving that the newer technology makes it more effective
internet service. in terms of price as well as efficiency.
Large infrastructure of conglomerates: Large
Conclusion corporations have capabilities such as testing
Starlink project will be a revolution in providing infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities and
satellite-based internet to remote parts of the world and assembly lines, but space manufacturing is only
will reduce digital inequity. a small fraction of their total industrial output. As
10. “Private players can bring in the innovation needed the space sector is a capital-intensive business, the
for developing space-based applications and initial step to increase private sector participation
services”. In the light of this statement, highlight must be taken by these conglomerates.
the role of private sector in India’s space science ¾ Recent Example of Private Space Launch in India:
and technology. (150 words) Recently, India’s first privately developed rocket,
Vikram-S was successfully launched in a sub-orbital
Approach
mission from the Sriharikota spaceport marking a
¾ Start your answer by briefly describing the status of new era in India’s space programme.
space industry in India.
¾ Related Initiatives:
¾ Discuss the role of private sector in India’s space sector.
IN-SPACE:
¾ Discuss various initiatives related to the private sector
z IN-SPACe was launched to provide a level playing
in the space industry.
field for private companies to use Indian space
¾ Conclude accordingly. infrastructure.
z It acts as a single-point interface between
Introduction
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and
¾ As of 2021, according to Space Tech analytics, India is everyone who wants to participate in space-
the sixth-largest player in the industry internationally related activities or use India’s space resources.
having 3.6% of the world’s space-tech companies. US
New Space India Limited (NSIL):
accounts for 56.4% of all companies in the space-tech
z Announced in Budget 2019, its aim is to use
ecosystem.
research and development carried out by ISRO
Other major players include U.K. (6.5%), Canada
over the years for commercial purposes through
(5.3%), China (4.7%) and Germany (4.1%).
Indian industry partners.
¾ The Indian Space Industry was valued at $7 billion in
Indian Space Association (ISpA):
2019 and aspires to grow to $50 billion by 2024. The
z ISpA aspires to be the collective voice of the
country’s standout feature is its cost-effectiveness.
Indian Space industry. ISpA will be represented
Body by leading domestic and global corporations
that have advanced capabilities in space and
¾ Role of private sector in India: satellite technologies.
Bolster Innovation: Private players can bring in
the innovation needed for developing space- Conclusion
based applications and services. Additionally, the
¾ There is a need for a new policy that ends ISRO’s
demand for these services is soaring worldwide
monopoly of the space sector in India, by sharing
and in India, with satellite data, imageries and
knowledge and technology, such as manufacturing
space technology being used across most sectors.
rockets and satellites, to all those who want to.
z Moreover, ISRO would have to expand 10x
Note:
¾ With India having one of the best space programs in convict or suspect is available.
the world, the move to allow private sector in space In Agriculture: It has many uses, for example, it can

will make India a bigger player in the global space help sense one how much water the crop needs.
economy. z For solving complex issues like efficient utilization
11. Despite the great scientific potential of Artificial of available resources.
Intelligence (AI), there are various challenges Analyzing the Data: The AI technology helps in
arising due to rise of AI. Discuss (250 words)
analyzing data and thus can improve the efficiency
Approach of the systems like power management in cars,
mobile devices, weather predictions, video and
¾ Start your answer by briefly describing Artificial image analysis.
intelligence.
¾ Challenges:
¾ Discuss the benefits and challenges of Artificial
The Bias Problem: The good or bad nature of an AI
intelligence.
system really depends on the amount of data they
¾ Conclude by suggesting some measures to resolve
are trained on. Hence, the ability to gain good data
its challenges. is the solution to good AI systems in the future.
But, in reality, the everyday data the organizations
Introduction
collect is poor and holds no significance of its own.
¾ Artificial intelligence could be described as the action Access to Data, Knowledge, Technology: In an
of machines accomplishing tasks that have historically interconnected world, a small number of companies
required human intelligence. are collecting vast amounts of data - access to this
¾ It includes technologies like machine learning, consolidated data would allow an accurate replay
pattern recognition, big data, neural networks, self- of anybody’s day-to-day life in terms of activities,
algorithms etc. interactions and explicitly stated or implicitly
¾ Example: Neuralink a budding start-up company identified interests; somebody (or something)
co-founded by Elon Musk that is working on Artificial could know our mobility history and patterns, or
Intelligence integration with the human body. They anything of anyone’s mundane life pattern.
have developed a chip which is an array of 96 small, Privacy: The right to privacy is under threat,
polymer threads, each containing 32 electrodes and can obviously considering the possibility of unauthorized
be transplanted into the brain, where a person could access to one’s online activity data. But even in
both record brain activity and potentially stimulate it. the case of an offline user — somebody who has
¾ Further, the impact of Artificial Intelligence on human deliberately decided to stay ‘disconnected’ — the
lives and the economy has been astonishing. Artificial right to privacy is still under threat, like a
Intelligence can add about $15.7 trillion to the world disconnected user moving through a ‘smart city’.
economy by 2030. Technological Unemployment: This is unemployment
which is ‘explained’ by the introduction of new
Body technologies — i.e. the jobs replaced by intelligent
¾ Benefits of Artificial Intelligence: machines or systems.
In Policing: India still has a conventional policing. AI z There will be significant changes in the
based products open a new window of opportunity workforce and the markets —some roles and
to do predictive policing in India. With the help of jobs will become obsolete, industries will be
AI, one can predict the pattern of crime, analyze radically transformed, employment models
lot of CCTV footage which are available across the and relationships will be redefined.
country to identify suspects. Security: Security is a critical aspect — if somebody
z Government is digitizing all the records, especially compromises a smart system, for instance an
the crime records putting it into one single place autonomous car, the consequences can be
called CCTNS where all the data including the disastrous, particularly given the ever-increasing
image, biometrics, or the criminal history of a cyber security threat.
Note:
z Access to Lethal Autonomous Weapons: is that fission is the splitting of an atom into two or
In a military context this autonomy in more smaller ones while fusion is the fusing of two
decision-making becomes scary – the or more smaller atoms into a larger one.
Lethal Autonomous Weapons which refer to
advanced robotic systems of the future, will Body
be capable of hitting targets without human ¾ Recent advancement in the field of Nuclear Energy:
intervention or approval. Recently a few scientists at the Lawrence Livermore

facility, the US have achieved a net gain in energy
Conclusion from a nuclear fusion reaction, which is seen as
¾ AI technological revolution brings great opportunities a big breakthrough.
for prosperity and growth — but it has to be ensured The experiments forced a minuscule amount of
that the technology will be applied and used in the hydrogen into a peppercorn-sized capsule, for
right direction. which scientists used a powerful 192-beam laser
z In this regard, some steps are already being taken that could generate 100 million degrees Celsius
in different parts of the world, like Explainable of heat.
AI (XAI) and the ‘Right to Explanation’ which It is also called ‘Inertial Fusion’.
allow understanding the models used for ¾ Challenges of Nuclear Energy:
artificial intelligence (and how they make
Capital Intensive: Nuclear power plants are capital
particular decisions — which is also required
intensive and recent nuclear builds have suffered
by the European Union GDPR — General Data
major cost overruns.
Protection Regulation).
Lack of Public Funding: Nuclear power has never
¾ It can also be said that AI may suffer from what is
received the quantum of generous subsidy the
known as “AI effect” or the “odd paradox”— AI brings
fossil fuel received in the past and renewable is
a new technology into the common fold, people
receiving currently.
become accustomed to this technology, it stops being
z In absence of public funding, nuclear power
considered AI, and newer technology emerges.
will find it tough to compete against natural
Thus, we can conclude that the growth of AI and AI
gas and renewables in the future.
based applications should not be halted but its growth
Acquisition of Land: Land acquisition and selection
and usage should be monitored and regulated at various
levels respectively. of location for Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) is also
a major problem in the country.
12. Rising advancements in nuclear energy has its own
z NPP’s like Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu and
advantages but posed several challenges. Discuss.
(150 words) Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh have met with
several delays due to the land acquisition
Approach related challenges.
¾ Start your answer by briefly describing nuclear energy. Impact of Climate Change: Climate change will
¾ Discuss various advantages of nuclear energy. increase the risk of nuclear reactor accidents.
During the world’s increasingly hot summers,
¾ Discuss challenges in the field of nuclear energy.
several nuclear power plants have already had to
be temporarily shut down or taken off the grid.
z Further, nuclear power plants depend on nearby
Introduction
water sources to cool their reactors, and with
¾ Nuclear fusion and nuclear fission are two different many rivers drying up, those sources of water
types of energy-releasing reactions used in nuclear are no longer guaranteed.
energy, through which energy is released from high-
z The frequency of such extreme weather events
powered atomic bonds between the particles within
is likely to increase in the future.
the nucleus.
Deployment at Insufficient Scale: It might not
¾ The main difference between these two processes
Note:
be the appropriate choice for mitigating India’s Approach

carbon emissions since it cannot be deployed at
¾ Start your answer by briefly explaining online gaming
the necessary scale.
and present its India specific data facts.
Nuclear Waste: Another side effect of nuclear
¾ Discuss challenges of online gaming.
power is the amount of nuclear waste it produces.
¾ Discuss potential approaches to address these
Nuclear waste can have drastically bad effects on
challenges.
life, causing cancerous growths, for instance, or
causing genetic problems for many generations ¾ Conclude accordingly.
of animals and plants.
Introduction
z In a densely populated country such as India,
land is at a premium and emergency health ¾ Online gaming refers to playing video games over
care is far from uniformly available. the internet with other players. This can be done
through a computer or through a gaming console or
¾ Advantages of Nuclear Energy:
smartphone that is connected to the internet.
Emissions from Nuclear Power Generation: Nuclear
It allows players to interact with each other and
power is zero-emission. It has no greenhouse
compete in real-time, regardless of their location.
gases or air pollutants.
It has become increasingly popular in recent years,
Land Usage: According to US government data, a
with the proliferation of high-speed internet
1,000-megawatt nuclear plant requires 360 times
connections and the availability of a wide range
less land than a similar-capacity wind farm and
of games to choose from.
75 times less land than solar plants.
¾ The online gaming industry grew at a compound annual
High Power Output: Nuclear power plants produce
growth rate (CAGR) of 38% in India between 2017-
high levels of energy compared to most power
2020, as opposed to 8% in China and 10% in the US.
sources (especially renewables), which makes them
a great provider of baseload electricity. ¾ Further, it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15% to
reach Rs 153 billion in revenue by 2024, as per a
z “Baseload electricity” simply means the minimum
report by VC firm Sequoia and management consulting
level of energy demand on the grid over a span
company BCG.
of time, say a week.
Inexpensive: Nuclear power plants incur low
Body
operational costs because they rely on relatively
simple operations. Additionally, nuclear plants only ¾ There are several challenges related to online gaming
need to refuel every 18–24 months, meaning that in India that may require regulation in order to be
fluctuating fuel prices affect them less than more effectively addressed. Some of these challenges include:
volatile industries like oil and natural gas. Problematic gaming behavior: Online gaming
z Heavy metals like uranium, nuclear power’s

can be addictive and can lead to problematic
main energy source, appear throughout the gaming behavior, which can negatively impact an
world and are only needed in small amounts, individual’s personal, social, and professional life.
meaning that they also cost less. This can be particularly concerning for children
and young people who may be more vulnerable
Conclusion to developing addictive behaviors.
Cybersecurity risks: Online gaming can also expose
Nuclear energy is a safe, reliable, and cost-effective
users to cybersecurity risks such as hacking, phishing,
source of energy. It’s one of the most promising energy
and identity theft.
sources of the future. It will be one of the most effective
solutions to fight climate change and global warming. Fraud and cheating: There have been instances
13. Discuss the need for regulation in addressing issues of fraud and cheating in online gaming, which can
related to online gaming in India and suggest undermine the fairness and integrity of the games.
potential approaches for addressing these In-game purchases: Many online games rely on in-
challenges. (250 words) game purchases as a source of revenue. However,
Note:
there have been instances of fraudulent or predatory behavior.

practices related to in-game purchases, which can
be harmful to consumers. Conclusion
Social responsibility: There is a need to ensure that Overall, it is important for the government and other
online gaming platforms are socially responsible stakeholders to carefully consider the potential risks and
and do not promote harmful or offensive content. benefits of online gaming, and to take a balanced approach
¾ Government Initiatives: to regulation that helps to ensure the safety and well-
Draft Rules for Online Gaming: The proposed rules
being of players while also allowing the industry to thrive.
have been introduced as an amendment to the 14. Analyse the challenges posed by the rise of
Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence (AI), suggest
and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. measures to tackle these challenges. (250 words)
z Self-Regulatory Body:
Approach
Online games will have to register with a self-
¾ Start your answer by briefly explaining metaverse
regulatory body, and only games cleared by
and artificial intelligence.
the body will be allowed to legally operate
¾ Discuss challenges of metaverse and AI and Suggest
in India.
measures to tackle challenges.
z Restrictions on Betting:
Online gaming companies will not be allowed
to engage in betting on the outcome of games. Introduction
z Compliance:
¾ The Metaverse is an emerging concept in technology
The online gaming platforms will also have
that refers to a created world, in which people can
to appoint a compliance officer who will live under the rules defined by the creator. It is a
ensure that the platform is following norms. combination of numerous components of technology,
¾ There are several potential approaches for addressing including augmented reality, virtual reality, and video.
these challenges: ¾ Further, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the simulation of
Age verification: One approach is to implement human intelligence in machines that are programmed to
age verification measures to ensure that children think and learn like humans. AI systems are designed to
and young people are not able to access games perform tasks that typically require human intelligence,
that are not suitable for their age. such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-
Parental controls: Another approach is to provide making, and language understanding.
parental controls that allow parents to set limits on
the amount of time their children spend playing Body
online games and to restrict access to certain games. As the Metaverse continues to gain popularity, it is
Education and awareness: Raising awareness about important to consider the challenges posed by the rise
the potential risks and challenges of online gaming of this technology and AI. The following are some of the
can help individuals make informed decisions about major challenges posed by them are as follows:
their gaming habits. ¾ Societal and Economic impacts:
Industry self-regulation: The online gaming industry AI and the Metaverse have the potential to disrupt
could adopt self-regulatory measures to address traditional industries and change the way people
issues such as fraud, cheating, and predatory in- work and interact, which could lead to job loss
game purchases. and income inequality.
Government regulation: In cases where self- ¾ Ethical concerns:
regulation is not effective, governments may need AI systems and the Metaverse raise questions about
to step in and regulate the industry in order to bias, transparency, and accountability. There is
protect consumers and address challenges such also a risk that these technologies could be used
as cybersecurity risks and problematic gaming to perpetuate or amplify societal problems such
Note:
as discrimination and inequality. ecosystems to address the distinct elements of safety,

¾ Dependence on technology: privacy, and security within the DNA of this technology.
As people increasingly rely on AI and the Metaverse Building a citizen-friendly meta-governance
for daily activities, there is a risk of people becoming infrastructure will need a collaboration by experts
too dependent on technology, which could lead from various disciplines, including designers,
to a loss of important life skills. business model experts and lawyers, to mitigate any
¾ Governance: potential legal hurdles. Private sector intervention
may be required as well.
The Metaverse and AI are global and borderless,
which makes it difficult to govern and regulate ¾ Meta Help Desk: In e-governance, essential information
them. This may lead to lack of oversight and is released to a targeted audience through ICT. Meta-
accountability. help desks or meta-divisions in a particular ministry/
other government agency can help in providing the
¾ Psychological and emotional effects:
critical data required.
Spending excessive time in the Metaverse and
¾ Transparent and Consent-based Applications:
interacting with AI systems may have negative
Technology companies will need to be more responsible
effects on people’s mental and emotional well-being.
and transparent in their data processing and safety
¾ Technical challenges: practices.
Building and maintaining the Metaverse and AI
Fostering an informed consent-based model while
systems requires significant technical expertise collecting personal data and abiding by the principles
and resources, which can be a challenge for both of data minimization and purpose limitation will
developers and users. be critical to prevent unchecked data processing
¾ Impact on physical health and well-being: and collection for commercial gains.
As the Metaverse becomes more immersive, there ¾ Global Cooperation: As the metaverse continues to
is a risk that users will spend increasing amounts of develop, we are seeing a glimpse of a more digitally
time in virtual worlds, potentially at the expense advanced borderless world that is full of promise.
of their physical health and well-being. While this new world continues to expand, we
¾ Data privacy and security: have to be aware of the set of challenges it brings
With the increasing amount of personal data being with every new development and to look forward
shared within the Metaverse, there is a risk of data towards uniform regulations across the globe.
breaches and other security threats.
Further, to curb the challenges posed by metaverse Conclusion
and AI we need to implement the following measures The Metaverse and AI are emerging concepts in
like: technology that presents a new way for people to interact
¾ Reduce Digital Divide: Governance mechanisms and engage in a virtual world. However, this technology
for virtual worlds would need to be supported with also poses a number of challenges but with proper set
strengthening and scaling efforts to promote digital of governance and regulation, this technology could help
literacy, safety and wellbeing so that participants can humanity in unimaginable ways.
engage meaningfully in online communities while 15. Evaluate the significance of BharOS in promoting
consciously navigating harmful content and behaviors. the use of indigenously developed technology and
¾ Policy Backing: It is the right time for the government reducing dependence on foreign Operating System
to create the right policy background for its operation in smartphones in India. (150 words)
and leverage the metaverse for public services.
Approach
The government needs to focus on information
accessibility, information utilization and information ¾ Start your answer by briefly explaining BharOS.
receptiveness. ¾ Discuss its significance in promoting indigenous
¾ Promote Safe and Secure Metaverse Ecosystem: There
technology and reducing dependence on foreign
is a strong need to develop and regulate effective operating system.
Note:
¾ Conclude accordingly. and reliable technology.

Reduction of Dependence on Foreign Operating
Introduction System: The development of BharOS has the
¾ BharOS, has been developed as a free and open-source potential to reduce India’s dependence on foreign
operating system (OS) with the aim of promoting operating systems.
the use of indigenously developed technology and z It will reduce India’s dependence on foreign
reducing dependence on foreign operating systems operating systems and increase the country’s
in smartphones in India. It is based on the Android strategic independence and security and
Open-Source Project (AOSP) but does not have default make it less reliant on foreign companies and
Google apps or services, giving users the option to technologies.
choose applications they trust and are familiar with. z This not only helps to create a more secure
technology infrastructure but also protects the
Body
country’s data and privacy.
¾ Significance of BharOS in promoting indigenous Promote User Choice: BharOS allows users to
technology and reducing dependence on foreign choose which apps and services they use on their
operating system: smartphones.
Promotion of Indigenously Developed Technology:
z Unlike Android, BharOS does not come with
BharOS is a significant step towards promoting the bundled default Google apps and services,
use of indigenously developed technology in India. thus giving users the freedom to choose what
z By providing a free and open-source operating they use.
system, the government is encouraging the z This level of choice is important as it allows
development and use of technology that has users to make informed decisions about the
been created within the country. technology they use and reduces the risk of
z This not only helps to create a self-sufficient unwanted data collection or privacy breaches.
tech ecosystem but also boosts the economy by ¾ Despite its potential benefits, BharOS faces several
supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. challenges, including:
Boosting national pride and self-sufficiency: BharOS
Competition with Established Operating Systems:
is a symbol of national pride and self-sufficiency, BharOS competes with well-established operating
as it showcases India’s technological capabilities systems such as Android, IOS, Windows and Linux,
and reduces dependence on foreign technologies. which already have a large user base and well-
Encouraging domestic innovation: By providing an established ecosystems. This makes it difficult for
alternative to foreign operating systems, BharOS is BharOS to gain market share.
encouraging domestic innovation and investment Technical Challenges: Developing an operating
in the technology sector, leading to the creation system is a complex task that requires significant
of new jobs and economic growth. technical expertise and resources.
Improving data security: By using an indigenous
z It faces the challenge of developing an operating
operating system, India can better control and system that is secure, stable, and user-friendly,
protect sensitive data, as there are reduced security while also meeting the unique needs and
risks associated with using foreign technologies. requirements of the Indian government and
Cost-effective solution: BharOS is a cost-effective citizens.
solution compared to foreign operating systems, Lack of Available Applications: One of the biggest
making it accessible to a wider range of consumers challenges for BharOS is the lack of available
and businesses, especially those in rural areas. applications for the operating system. This can
Encouraging open-source software: BharOS is limit its usefulness and make it less appealing
promoting the use of open-source software, which to potential users.
allows for greater transparency and collaboration Security Concerns: BharOS must ensure the
in software development, leading to more secure
Note:
security and privacy of its users, especially in light the adoption of electric vehicles in India.
of increasing cyber-attacks and security threats. The scheme provides incentives for the
This requires significant resources and expertise purchase of electric vehicles and the
and is a major challenge for the operating system. establishment of charging infrastructure.
Cost Savings: EVs offer significant cost savings
Conclusion
over traditional gasoline vehicles, especially when
BharOS is a significant step towards promoting the considering the long-term costs.
use of indigenously developed technology and reducing z Fuel costs for electric vehicles are much
dependence on foreign operating systems in smartphones lower than gasoline vehicles, and the cost of
in India. maintenance is also significantly reduced.
Its promotion of user choice and protection of data Employment Generation: The shift towards EVs
and privacy are important factors in the development of will also create employment opportunities in areas
a self-sufficient and secure technology ecosystem. The such as manufacturing, research and development,
government’s support of this project is a positive move and charging infrastructure development.
towards the growth and development of the Indian tech
Energy Security: India’s dependence on imported
industry and economy.
crude oil is a significant concern. EVs can help
16. Examine opportunities and challenges presented address this issue by reducing the dependence
by electric vehicles in India. (250 Words) on imported crude oil and instead using domestic
Approach renewable energy sources.
Technological Advancements: The adoption
¾ Start your answer by briefly introducing the present
of electric vehicles can drive technological
scenario of electric vehicles in India.
advancements and innovation in India.
¾ Discuss opportunities and challenges of electric vehicles.
z Several Indian startups are working on
¾ Conclude accordingly. developing innovative solutions for electric
vehicles, such as battery technology, charging
Introduction
infrastructure, and mobility services.
¾ The growing demand for clean energy and environmental z The Indian government has also launched
concerns has led to a shift towards sustainable several initiatives, such as the National Electric
transportation. Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), to promote
momentum globally, and India is no exception. With the development and adoption of EVs.
its growing population and increasing number of
¾ Challenges Faced by Electric Vehicles:
vehicles on the road, India is facing the challenge of
Charging Infrastructure: One of the most significant
controlling its pollution levels. The shift towards EVs
could potentially address this issue. However, there challenges for EV adoption is the lack of charging
are both opportunities and challenges that come with infrastructure in India.
adopting electric vehicles in India. z There is a need to develop a robust charging
infrastructure network to support the growth
Body of EVs.
¾ Opportunities Presented by Electric Vehicles (EV): High Initial Cost: The initial cost of EVs is higher
Reduced Pollution: The primary advantage of EVs

than traditional gasoline vehicles. The high cost
is the reduction in pollution levels. of batteries is one of the primary reasons for this.
z However, as the technology develops, the cost
z India’s cities have some of the worst air quality
levels in the world, and EVs could help address of EVs is expected to come down.
this problem. Range Anxiety: Range anxiety is a concern for
z Further, the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing

many potential EV buyers. The limited range of
of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME EVs and the lack of charging infrastructure can
India) scheme was launched in 2015 to promote cause anxiety among drivers.
Note:
Battery Disposal: The disposal of batteries used with the help of other countries, such as the United
in EVs is a significant challenge. Proper disposal States, France, and the Soviet Union.
methods must be developed to ensure that the z The Satellite Instructional Television Experiment
batteries do not harm the environment. (SITE) was India’s first major satellite-based
telecommunications experiment, which began
Conclusion in 1975.
¾ Electric vehicles present significant opportunities for India’s space program took a significant leap
India, but there are also several challenges that need forward in the 1980s when the organization
to be addressed for their widespread adoption. The launched its first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975.
Indian government, automobile manufacturers, and The Rohini satellite was launched using India’s
private players need to work together to overcome first satellite launch vehicle, the Satellite Launch
these challenges and promote the adoption of EVs Vehicle (SLV-3), in 1983.
in India. ISRO achieved its first successful satellite launch
This requires developing a robust charging using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
infrastructure network, providing incentives to in 1993, and the organization launched its first
make EVs more affordable, developing better remote-sensing satellite, IRS-1A, in 1988.
battery technology, and ensuring the proper India’s space program became self-sufficient in
disposal of batteries. the 1990s, with the organization designing and
By addressing these challenges, India can lead launching its satellites without foreign assistance.
the way towards a sustainable future, reduce its z India launched its first geostationary satellite,
dependence on imported crude oil, and improve INSAT-2B, in 1993, and the organization launched
the quality of life for its citizens. its first dedicated meteorological satellite,
17. How has India’s space program evolved over time METSAT, in 2002.
and what are some of the key achievements of
¾ Key Achievements of India’s Space Program:
India’s space program? (250 words)
India’s space program has achieved several
Approach significant milestones over the years, demonstrating

the organization’s technological capabilities and
¾ Start your answer by briefly introducing evolution of
advancements. Here are a few examples:
India’s space program.
z Mars Orbiter Mission:
¾ Discuss key achievements of India’s space program.
India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also
known as Mangalyaan, was launched on
Introduction November 5, 2013, and entered the Martian
orbit on September 24, 2014.
¾ India’s space program, which began in 1962, has
India became the first nation to successfully reach
developed into a significant aspect of the country’s
Mars on its first attempt, and the mission’s success
technological and scientific progress. India’s space
put India in the same league as the United States,
program has advanced to the point that it is now
the Soviet Union, and the European Union.
an independent space-faring nation, with its own
z Chandrayaan-1:
satellites and rocket launch capabilities.
Chandrayaan-1, India’s first lunar mission,
Body was launched on October 22, 2008, and was
¾ Evolution of India’s Space Program: the first mission to confirm the presence of
water on the Moon.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Chandrayaan-1 orbited the Moon for ten
was founded in 1969, and its primary goal was to
design and launch satellites for telecommunications, months and discovered over 40 craters
meteorology, and earth observation. with water ice. It was also the first Indian
spacecraft to be placed in the lunar orbit.
The organization’s early missions were carried out
Note:
z Record-Breaking Satellite Launch: Introduction:

In February 2017, India launched 104 satellites Technology has been playing a crucial role in
into orbit, breaking the previous record held promoting sustainable development across various
by Russia, which launched 37 satellites in a sectors, from energy to agriculture to transportation.
single launch. Technology has the potential to contribute significantly
The PSLV-C37 mission, which launched from the to sustainable development by promoting resource
Satish Dhawan Space Centre, included satellites efficiency, reducing waste, and improving environmental
from six countries, including India, the United and social outcomes
States, and the Netherlands.
z GSLV Mk III: Body:
In 2017, India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Role of Technology in Promoting Sustainable
Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III) was Development in India:
successfully launched, making India one of Renewable Energy:
the few countries with a capability to launch z Renewable energy technologies, such as solar,
heavy satellites. wind, and hydropower, can play a critical role
z Anti-Satellite Test: in promoting sustainable development in
In 2019, India successfully tested an anti- India by reducing greenhouse gas emissions,
satellite (ASAT) missile, making it one of the increasing energy security, and promoting rural
few countries with this capability. electrification.
Energy Efficiency:
Conclusion z Technological advancements in energy-efficient
¾ India’s space program has evolved significantly since devices, buildings, and appliances are reducing
its inception in 1962, and the organization has made energy consumption and lowering greenhouse
significant achievements in the field of space technology gas emissions.
and exploration. The organization’s technological z Smart grid technology, for instance, enables
achievements, such as launching satellites and the efficient distribution and management of
exploring other planets, have put India in the global electricity, reducing wastage and costs.
space technology race.
Waste Management:
India’s space program will undoubtedly continue
z Advanced technologies, such as waste-to-energy
to progress, and its achievements will contribute
and recycling, can help in reducing waste and
to the country’s economic, technological, and
promoting sustainable waste management
scientific growth.
practices.
18. Discuss the role of technology in promoting
Water Conservation:
sustainable development in India. What are the
z Technology can help in promoting water
challenges in adopting sustainable technologies,
and how can they be overcome? (250 words) conservation by enabling efficient use of water
resources through technologies such as drip
Approach irrigation and water-efficient appliances.
¾ Start your answer with a brief introduction about Sustainable Agriculture:
Technology in various fields. z Precision agriculture technologies, including
¾ Discuss the role of technology in promoting sustainable sensors, drones, and GPS mapping, are being
development. used to optimize crop yields while reducing
¾ Discuss Challenges in adoption of sustainable inputs like water and fertilizers.
technologies. z This helps to increase agricultural productivity
¾ Suggest some measures to overcome challenges. while minimizing the negative impact on the
environment.
Circular Economy:
Note:
z Technology is facilitating the transition from Awareness Campaigns:

a linear economy to a circular one, where z Education and awareness campaigns can help in
waste is minimized and resources are reused promoting the understanding and acceptance of
and recycled. sustainable technologies among stakeholders.
z For instance, 3D printing technology is enabling Foster Collaboration:
the production of spare parts on demand, z Collaboration between businesses, governments,
reducing the need for new products and and communities can help overcome resistance to
associated resource consumption. change and promote the adoption of sustainable
Challenges in Adopting Sustainable Technologies: technologies.
High Costs:
z One of the biggest challenges in adopting Conclusion:

sustainable technologies is the high cost of With the growing need to mitigate the impacts of
implementation and deployment. climate change and environmental degradation,
z For example, installing solar panels or wind sustainable technologies offer a solution that can help
turbines can be expensive. This high cost can achieve economic growth while protecting the planet.
deter individuals and businesses from adopting 19. Discuss the significance of space technology in
sustainable technologies. promoting sustainable development in India.
Limited Scalability: (150 words)
z Some sustainable technologies may not be
Approach
scalable, meaning they may not be able to meet
the demand of large populations or industries. ¾ Start your answer with a brief introduction to Space
z For example, some renewable energy sources
Technology.
may not be able to provide the same level of ¾ Discuss its significance in promoting sustainable
energy as traditional sources. development.
Lack of Awareness: ¾ Conclude accordingly.
z Many people may not be aware of sustainable
Introduction:
technologies and their benefits.
z They may not know how to use them or how
Space technology or space tech refers to the
to maintain them. This lack of knowledge can application of engineering principles to the design,
be a barrier to adoption. development, manufacture, and operation of devices and
systems for space travel and exploration. Space technology
Lack of Supportive Policies:
has played a significant role in promoting sustainable
z Inadequate policy support and regulatory
development in India.
frameworks also hinder the adoption of
sustainable technologies. Body:
¾ Overcoming the Challenges: Significance of Space Technology
Financial Incentives: ¾ Environmental Monitoring:
z Providing financial incentives, such as tax Space technology has enabled accurate and
credits, subsidies, and low-interest loans, can continuous monitoring of environmental factors
help in promoting the adoption of sustainable such as land use, deforestation, oceanography,
technologies. and weather patterns, allowing policymakers to
Improve Infrastructure: make informed decisions on natural resource
z Governments and organizations can invest in the management.
infrastructure required to support sustainable ¾ Disaster Management:
technologies, such as electric vehicle charging India has a history of natural disasters such as
stations or renewable energy transmission lines. floods, earthquakes, and cyclones.
Note:
Space technology has enabled rapid response and

Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT) is a
disaster management capabilities, with remote medical technique that aims to prevent the transmission
sensing and communication technologies providing of mitochondrial diseases from a mother to her offspring.
critical information to emergency responders. Mitochondrial diseases are genetic disorders caused by
¾ Agriculture: mutations in the DNA of mitochondria, which are the
Space technology has been instrumental in
cellular powerhouses responsible for producing energy.
improving agricultural productivity through remote These mutations can lead to severe health conditions
sensing and monitoring of crop growth and soil affecting various organs and systems in the body.
moisture.
Body:
This data helps farmers make informed decisions
about water usage and fertilizer application, resulting This procedure has potential implications for human
in increased yields and reduced environmental health and reproduction:
impact. ¾ Preventing Mitochondrial Diseases: MRT replaces
¾ Communication: faulty mitochondria to prevent transmission of mtDNA
mutations that cause severe mitochondrial diseases.
Space technology has improved communication and
It reduces the risk of debilitating conditions caused
connectivity in India, with satellite communication
by mitochondrial dysfunction.
providing reliable and cost-effective connectivity
in remote and rural areas. ¾ Safety and Efficacy: It could pose safety and efficacy
challenges, as the long-term effects of MRT are
This has enabled better access to information,
unknown and the techniques are still experimental.
education, and healthcare services.
¾ Unintended Consequences: Critics argue that this
¾ National Security:
procedure could lead to unintended consequences
Space technology has contributed significantly
and could open the door to designer babies or genetic
to India’s national security, with satellites used enhancements.
for strategic communication, surveillance, and
¾ Inheritance and Genetic Identity: MRT involves the
intelligence gathering.
introduction of genetic material from a donor, leading
This has helped to safeguard the nation’s borders
to the inheritance of mitochondrial DNA from a third
and protect its citizens. individual. This raises questions about genetic identity
and familial relationships. The long-term impact on
Conclusion:
family dynamics and the psychological well-being
Space technology has played a crucial role in of individuals conceived through MRT should be
promoting sustainable development in India, with its considered.
contribution ranging from environmental monitoring to ¾ Social and Cultural Implications: MRT may have
disaster management and from agriculture to national broader social and cultural implications. It challenges
security. Its continued investment and development will traditional concepts of reproduction, inheritance,
remain a crucial priority for India in the years to come. and kinship.
20. Discuss the concept of Mitochondrial Replacement
Therapy (MRT) and its potential implications for Conclusion:
human health and reproduction. (250 Words)
Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy has the potential
Approach: to prevent the transmission of severe mitochondrial
diseases but raises important ethical, safety, and
¾ Start your answer by defining Mitochondrial regulatory considerations. As this technology advances,
Replacement Therapy. ongoing research, robust regulations, and careful
¾ In the body section, mention its potential implications. evaluation are necessary to maximize the benefits while
¾ Conclude accordingly. minimizing potential risks and societal implications.
21. The Indian Space Sector has been globally
Introduction: recognized for building cost-effective satellites,
Note:
and now India is even taking foreign satellites to ¾ It promotes a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship
space. In this light discuss the significance of New in the space sector by creating opportunities for NGEs
Space Policy and challenges associated with it. to develop new products, services and solutions.
Also, suggest measures to harness the full ¾ It enhances India’s strategic interests and capabilities
potential of space sector. (250 words) in space by ensuring security and sustainability of its
space assets and activities.
Approach:
¾ Introduction: Briefly introduce the Indian Space Sector Challenges associated with New Space Policy:
and mention India’s recent endeavours.
¾ Creating a robust regulatory framework is essential to
¾ Body: Discuss the significance and key features of the balance stakeholder interests, ensure compliance with
New Space Policy, challenges and suggest measures laws and norms, prevent misuse of space resources,
to harness the full potential of space sector. and resolve conflicts.
¾ Conclusion: Conclude with a forward-looking statement ¾ Developing a skilled workforce that can meet the
on the future prospects of the Indian space program. growing demand for talent and expertise in the
space sector.
Introduction:
¾ Ensuring adequate funding and financing for NGEs’
The Indian space sector has achieved remarkable space activities.
feats: launching over 300 satellites, missions to the Moon ¾ Fostering a conducive ecosystem that can support
and Mars, indigenous technology development, and NGEs’ growth and innovation.
experimental flights. The vision is to use space technology
¾ Addressing the emerging threats and challenges in
for national development and regional cooperation. To
the space domain, such as space debris, congestion,
adapt to emerging technologies and challenges, India
competition, militarization and weaponization.
needs a new policy framework. It should encourage private
sector participation, foster innovation, ensure security
Measures to harness the full
and sustainability, and promote international cooperation.
potential of space sector:
Significance of New Space Policy ¾ Enacting a comprehensive space law that can provide
The New Space Policy (NSP) 2023 promotes private a legal basis for the NSP and its implementation. The
sector involvement, investment, and collaboration in the space law should also define the rights and obligations
space sector. It enhances competitiveness and efficiency of NGEs, ISRO, NSIL, IN-SPACe and other stakeholders, as
by defining roles and responsibilities of stakeholders like well as the mechanisms for enforcement, adjudication
ISRO, NSIL, and IN-SPACe. and redressal.
Some of the key features and benefits of the NSP ¾ Establishing a national space council or commission
are: comprising representatives from various ministries,
departments and other stakeholders that can provide
¾ It allows non-government entities (NGEs) to undertake
strategic direction, coordination and oversight for
end-to-end space activities, such as building rockets,
India’s space program.
satellites and launch vehicles.
¾ Enhancing effectiveness and efficiency, ISRO, NSIL, and
¾ It establishes IN-SPACe as a single-window nodal agency
IN-SPACe need strengthened capacity and capability.
for authorizing and regulating NGEs’ space activities.
This entails bolstering human, financial, and technical
¾ It empowers New Space India Limited (NSIL) as the
resources, along with organizational structures and
commercial arm of ISRO to undertake production and processes.
marketing of space products and services developed
¾ Establish transparent and equitable procedures to
by ISRO.
assess, monitor, and support NGEs’ participation in
¾ It enables ISRO to focus more on research and
national and international initiatives.
development of advanced space technologies,
¾ Promoting a culture of excellence, innovation and
exploration missions and other non-commercial
entrepreneurship in the space sector by rewarding
activities.
Note:
the achievements of NGEs, ISRO, NSIL, IN-SPACe and Human Factors:

other stakeholders. This requires creating platforms and z Insider Threats: Malicious actions or unintentional
forums for showcasing, celebrating and disseminating mistakes by insiders, such as disgruntled
best practices. employees or contractors, can lead to cyber
attacks.
Conclusion:
z Social Engineering: Manipulating individuals
The NSP 2023 is a visionary document that can usher through deception and psychological techniques
in a new era of space development in India. It can enable to gain unauthorized access or sensitive
India to leverage its strengths and opportunities in the information.
space sector for achieving its national goals and aspirations. z Lack of Awareness and Training: Insufficient
However, the success of the NSP depends on its effective knowledge about cyber threats, phishing
implementation and constant review. Therefore, it is techniques, and safe online practices make
imperative that all the stakeholders work together to individuals more susceptible to attacks
overcome the challenges and realize the potential of the
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs):
NSP.
z State-sponsored Attacks: Governments or state-
22. What are the main causes and consequences of
sponsored groups may engage in cyber espionage
cyberattacks on critical infrastructure? How can
or sabotage to gain strategic advantages.
India enhance its cybersecurity preparedness to
deal with such threats? (250 words) z Cybercriminal Organizations: Organized criminal
groups with sophisticated capabilities seek
Approach financial gains through attacks on businesses
¾ Start your answer with a brief introduction of Cyber and individuals.
Attacks. z Hacktivism: Activists or hacktivist groups may
¾ Explain its Causes and consequences separately. target organizations or individuals to promote
their ideological or political agendas.
¾ Write some ways to enhance cybersecurity
preparedness. Cybersecurity Policy and Regulation:
z Inadequate Legal Frameworks: Weak or outdated
laws and regulations related to cybersecurity can
Introduction: create loopholes and insufficient deterrence.
z Lack of International Cooperation: Cyber attacks
Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure are malicious
attempts to disrupt or damage the essential services and often transcend national boundaries, making
systems that support the functioning of a nation, such it essential to have global collaboration and
as power grids, transportation networks, communication information sharing to combat cyber threats
systems, banking and financial services, etc. effectively.
Economic and Financial Incentives:
Body: z Financial Gain: Cybercriminals are motivated
¾ The main causes of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure by monetary rewards, such as stealing sensitive
are: information for sale on the dark web or
Technological Vulnerabilities:
ransomware attacks.
z Economic Espionage: Competing organizations
z Weak Security Measures: Inadequate
implementation of security protocols and or nation-states may engage in cyber attacks
outdated software can create vulnerabilities to gain a competitive advantage by stealing
that cybercriminals exploit. intellectual property.
z Software Bugs and Exploits: Vulnerabilities in
The main consequences of cyberattacks
software codes or undiscovered bugs can be
on critical infrastructure are:
exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized
access. ¾ Loss of Life and Property:
Note:
Loss of life and property, due to physical damage

¾ Start your answer with a brief introduction of
or disruption of vital services such as health care, Samudrayaan mission.
water supply, emergency response, etc. ¾ Write its objectives.
¾ Loss of Trust: ¾ Explain how it can help in enhancing India’s capabilities
Loss of trust and confidence, due to breach of in ocean exploration.
privacy, security, and integrity of personal or official ¾ Conclude accordingly
data and information.
¾ Economic Loss: Introduction:
Loss of economic growth and competitiveness, The Samudrayan mission is an Indian initiative to
due to reduced productivity, efficiency, innovation, undertake the deep ocean exploration focused on India’s
and trade. exclusive economic zones and continental shelf. It is a
¾ Threat to National Security: part of the Deep Ocean Mission approved by the Ministry
Threat to national security and sovereignty, due
of Earth Sciences (MoES) in June 2021.
to exposure of strategic assets, vulnerabilities,
Body:
and secrets.
The objectives of the Samudrayan mission are:
India can enhance its cybersecurity ¾ To develop a self-propelled manned submersible
preparedness to deal with such threats by: vehicle called Matsya 6000 to carry three human
beings to a water depth of 6,000 meters in the ocean
¾ Strengthening its legal and institutional framework for
with a suite of scientific sensors and tools for deep
cybersecurity governance, coordination, regulation,
ocean exploration.
and enforcement.
¾ To enhance India’s scientific and technological
¾ Developing its human and technological capabilities
capabilities and human resources in the field of deep
for cybersecurity research, innovation, education,
sea research and development.
and awareness.
¾ To explore the potential of ocean resources such as
¾ Enhancing its public-private partnership for
minerals, energy, water, biodiversity, etc. for sustainable
cybersecurity collaboration, information sharing,
use and development.
best practices, and standards.
¾ To support India’s Blue Economy initiatives and maritime
¾ Building its regional and international cooperation
security interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
for cybersecurity dialogue, cooperation, capacity
building, and norms. The components of the Samudrayan mission are:
¾ Design and development of Matsya 6000, which will
Conclusion: have a titanium alloy personal sphere of 2.1-meter
diameter enclosed space with an endurance of 12
Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure pose a serious
hours and an additional 96 hours in case of emergency
threat to the national and global security and stability.
situation.
India needs to adopt a proactive and holistic approach
to enhance its cybersecurity preparedness and resilience, ¾ Qualification and testing of Matsya 6000, which will
involving all the stakeholders and partners. This will not undergo various trials by December 2024 before being
only protect its vital interests and assets, but also enable deployed for deep sea missions.
it to play a leading role in shaping the cyber domain in a ¾ Operation and maintenance of Matsya 6000, which
responsible and cooperative manner. will involve trained personnel, infrastructure, logistics,
23. What are the objectives and components of the etc. for conducting safe and efficient missions.
Samudrayan mission? How will it help in enhancing ¾ Data acquisition and analysis of Matsya 6000, which
India’s capabilities and interests in the deep ocean will involve collection and processing of various types
exploration? (250 words) of data such as bathymetry, geology, biology, chemistry,
etc. from the deep sea environment.
Approach The Samudrayan mission will help in enhancing
Note:
India’s capabilities and interests in the deep ocean ¾ Strengthening India’s role and influence in shaping
exploration by: the regional and global order and norms related to
¾ Providing India with a niche technology and vehicle to the ocean governance, cooperation, and security.
carry out subsea activities that only a few countries
such as the US, Russia, France, Japan, and China have. Conclusion:
¾ Enabling India to access and utilize the vast ocean The Samudrayaan mission is a ambitious undertaking,
resources that are estimated to be worth billions of but it has the potential to make significant contributions
dollars such as polymetallic nodules, gas hydrates, to our understanding of the deep ocean and to the
hydrothermal sulfides, cobalt crusts, etc. development of new technologies for ocean exploration
¾ Contributing to India’s scientific knowledge and and exploitation. The mission is still in the planning stages,
innovation in the field of oceanography, marine biology, but it is already generating excitement and anticipation
geology, etc. that can have various applications and among the scientific community.
benefits.
Note:

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1 MAINS MARATHON 2023 (SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY) www.drishtiias.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

after decades of their establishment, while ISRO has grown Conclusion:

The instruments on its predecessor Hubble

Conclusion: ¾ The basic properties of quantum computing are

z It means the two members of a pair (Qubits)

Way Forward Issues associated with Hydrogen fuel cells:

Approach: Way Forward

be the appropriate choice for mitigating India’s Approach

z Heavy metals like uranium, nuclear power’s

challenges. (250 words) game purchases as a source of revenue. However,

there have been instances of fraudulent or predatory behavior.

as discrimination and inequality. ecosystems to address the distinct elements of safety,

¾ Conclude accordingly. and reliable technology.

 Reduced Pollution: The primary advantage of EVs

z Further, the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing

Approach significant milestones over the years, demonstrating

z Record-Breaking Satellite Launch: Introduction:

Technology in various fields. z Precision agriculture technologies, including

z Technology is facilitating the transition from  Awareness Campaigns:

z One of the biggest challenges in adopting Conclusion:

Space technology has enabled rapid response and

the achievements of NGEs, ISRO, NSIL, IN-SPACe and  Human Factors:

Loss of life and property, due to physical damage

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z Technology is facilitating the transition from Awareness Campaigns:

the achievements of NGEs, ISRO, NSIL, IN-SPACe and Human Factors: