Geography
Why India is building a cloud chamber as part of Mission Mausam
Mission Mausam aims to ‘manage’ weather events. What is a cloud chamber, and what role can it play in this?
Introduction
Mission Mausam, launched by the Government of India, is an ambitious program aimed at weather modification. The establishment of a state-of-the-art cloud chamber at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, is central to this initiative. The cloud chamber will be used to study cloud physics, a critical aspect of weather management, including controlling rainfall, hailstorms, fog, and lightning.
Key Points
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mission Mausam | Launched by India to manage and modify weather events such as rainfall, hailstorms, fog, and lightning. |
| Cloud Chamber | A sealed cylindrical or tubular structure where scientists simulate cloud formation by injecting water vapor and aerosols under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. |
| Unique Feature | Unlike conventional cloud chambers, India’s chamber will have convection properties, critical for studying monsoon clouds. |
| Objective | Understanding cloud physics, particularly cloud behavior, droplet formation, and intra-cloud interactions under conditions relevant to Indian weather systems. |
| Duration | Construction of the cloud chamber will take 18-24 months, followed by advanced instrumentation deployment. |
Cloud Chamber: Role and Importance
What is a Cloud Chamber?
A cloud chamber is a device that simulates cloud formation by controlling environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and aerosols. It allows scientists to study cloud droplet formation, ice particle development, and interactions within cloud layers, essential for weather modification efforts. The chamber at IITM will focus on clouds that influence the Indian monsoon, which has unique dynamics compared to other global weather systems.
India’s Cloud Physics Focus: Why It Matters
- Study of Monsoon Clouds: The new cloud chamber will be one of the few globally designed to simulate monsoon clouds, crucial for understanding India’s climate systems.
- Weather Modification Potential: By studying cloud formation and behavior, scientists hope to develop strategies to enhance or suppress rainfall, manage hailstorms, fog, and even mitigate lightning.
- Strategic Planning: The data gathered from the cloud chamber will help in devising actionable plans for weather modification to address agricultural needs and disaster management.
- Advanced Instrumentation: The cloud chamber will be equipped with sophisticated tools to monitor minute physical and atmospheric properties, allowing precise interventions for weather modification.
Past Experience with Cloud Seeding
India has experimented with cloud seeding through the Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX), which lasted over a decade. The experiments, conducted in the Solapur district of Maharashtra (2016-2018), demonstrated the potential to increase rainfall by 46% in certain regions. These results validate cloud seeding as a viable tool for rain enhancement, though it is not a guaranteed solution for addressing droughts or rainfall deficits.
Conclusion
Mission Mausam’s focus on weather modification is a crucial step in addressing India’s unique meteorological challenges. The construction of the cloud chamber will provide valuable insights into cloud physics, helping in strategic planning for rainfall management, disaster mitigation, and agricultural productivity.
Why did the Supreme Court uphold the Assam Accords-based Section 6A of Citizenship Act? | Explained
Why in News?
What does the contentious provision stipulate? What are the court’s findings? What are the potential implications?
Introduction:
In a landmark decision on October 18, 2024, the Supreme Court of India upheld the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, specific to Assam. The verdict, passed by a 4:1 majority, reinforced the distinct provisions for granting Indian citizenship to immigrants who entered Assam before March 25, 1971, originating from the Assam Accord (1985). The ruling addresses the contentious debates surrounding illegal immigration, citizenship rights, and demographic changes in the state.
Key Provisions of Section 6A
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cut-off Date for Citizenship | March 25, 1971 (aligned with the end of Bangladesh’s Liberation War). |
| Citizenship Rights for Migrants | Indian citizenship for those who entered Assam before January 1, 1966, with restricted voting rights for those between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971. |
| Basis of Enactment | Assam Accord, signed between the Indian government and Assamese organizations, aimed to address illegal immigration concerns. |
Why Was Section 6A Challenged?
- Violation of Equality (Article 14): Petitioners argued that setting a different cut-off date for Assam violated the right to equality enshrined in Article 14.
- Inconsistency with Articles 6 & 7: These Articles regulate citizenship for Partition-era migrants. Petitioners claimed that Assam should adhere to the same dates as the rest of India.
- Demographic Changes: Critics argued that Section 6A had led to a “perceptible change in the demographic pattern” of Assam, threatening the cultural and linguistic identity of the indigenous Assamese.
- Article 355: Petitioners invoked Article 355, arguing that the influx of illegal immigrants constituted “external aggression,” thereby necessitating central intervention.
Supreme Court’s Majority Verdict
The court justified Section 6A as a balancing act between Assam’s unique historical conditions and humanitarian concerns. It noted that Section 6A does not violate Article 14 and stated that it was not inconsistent with Articles 6 and 7, addressing issues that these Articles did not cover. The court adopted a pluralistic interpretation of Article 29, ruling that the presence of immigrants does not undermine Assamese culture.
Key Points
- Humanitarian Approach: The court reasoned that Section 6A was framed to balance humanitarian concerns related to the influx of Bangladeshi migrants while protecting Assam’s socio-economic fabric.
- Historical Context: Acknowledged that Assam faced exceptional demographic challenges due to its proximity to Bangladesh, which justified a separate regime for citizenship.
- Article 355 Rejected: The court ruled that the migration did not amount to “external aggression,” dismissing the call for central intervention under Article 355.
Implications of the Verdict
- NRC Implementation: The cut-off date of March 25, 1971, serves as the basis for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, which identified 19 lakh individuals as potential non-citizens.
- CAA vs. Assam Accord: The judgment amplifies demands to repeal the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019, which grants citizenship to non-Muslim immigrants arriving by December 31, 2014. This creates a conflicting timeline with the Assam Accord.
Hosting the BRICS summit: Why Kazan in Tatarstan matters in Putin’s Russia
Why in News?
Both arrive at an agreement on patrolling arrangements, and resolution of all remaining friction points, says Foreign Secretary; gone back to where the situation was in 2020, says Jaishankar.
Introduction
The 16th BRICS summit, held in Kazan, Tatarstan, from October 22, 2024, signifies more than just a diplomatic gathering; it reflects the changing demographic and political landscape of Russia.
Historical Context of Kazan
- Foundation and Siege: Originally built in the early 16th century, the Kul Sharif Mosque was destroyed by Ivan the Terrible during the Siege of Kazan in 1552, marking the fall of the Khanate of Kazan and the incorporation of Tatarstan into Muscovite control.
- Modern Reconstruction: The mosque was reconstructed in 2005 with funding from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, symbolizing the revival of Tatar culture and heritage.
Kazan: A Symbol of Change
- City’s Role in Russia’s Future: Kazan exemplifies Russia’s transition into a more diverse and multicultural society. The city showcases this diversity through its architectural landmarks, such as the Annunciation Cathedral and the Kul Sharif Mosque, which coexist in proximity.
- Economic Landscape: Kazan is a significant economic hub in Russia, with a robust petrochemical industry, military sector, and an emerging information technology landscape, contributing to its designation as Russia’s “third capital” after Moscow and St. Petersburg.
BRICS Summit as a Diplomatic Gesture
Holding the BRICS summit in Kazan is viewed as a strategic move among ethnic minorities and emphasizes the importance of Tatarstan within the Russian federation. The city has seen over 8 billion rubles (approximately $80 million) invested in renovations ahead of this significant event.
Conclusion
The BRICS summit in Kazan underscores the city’s significance in Russia’s demographic evolution, reflecting its complex identity amid ethnic diversity challenges.
Question:
Discuss the significance of Kazan as a host city for the BRICS summit in the context of Russia’s demographic changes and ethnic diversity.
Why is Big Tech scouting for nuclear power? | Explained
Why in News?
Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Amazon are banking on nuclear energy to feed energy-hungry AI development.
Context
In the face of increasing energy demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and large data centres, major tech companies are turning to nuclear energy as a sustainable solution. Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and OpenAI have begun investing in nuclear reactors, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), aiming to secure carbon-free, round-the-clock energy to support their AI-driven initiatives.
Key Points
| Company | Nuclear Energy Initiative | Energy Output |
|---|---|---|
| Partnered with Kairos Power for SMRs, aiming to deploy by 2030-2035. | 500 MW carbon-free energy. | |
| Microsoft | Signed a 20-year agreement with Constellation for the Crane Clean Energy Center (CCEC) to restart Three Mile Island Unit 1. | 835 MW added to U.S. grid. |
| Amazon | Partnered with Energy Northwest and others for SMRs, and co-located a data center with Talen Energy’s nuclear facility. | Investments in SMRs and nuclear fuel development. |
| OpenAI | Backed Oklo’s microreactor in Idaho, expected operational by 2027; invested in nuclear fusion company Helion. | Focus on microreactors and fusion technology. |
Why Big Tech Prefers Nuclear Energy?
- Energy-Hungry AI: Tech companies are dealing with rapidly increasing energy demands due to the development and training of AI models, alongside the maintenance of large data centers.
- Carbon-Free Power: Nuclear energy is carbon-free and can provide consistent power unlike intermittent renewable sources like solar or wind.
- Decarbonization Goals: Companies like Google and Microsoft have committed to becoming carbon negative and see nuclear energy as a tool for decarbonization.
- Advantages of SMRs: Small Modular Reactors offer quicker deployment, lower costs, and smaller land use compared to traditional reactors, making them attractive for tech companies.
Challenges with Nuclear Energy
- Safety: Public memory of nuclear accidents like Chernobyl (1986), Fukushima (2011), and Three Mile Island (1979) raises concerns about the risks of nuclear energy.
- Environmental Impact: Despite being carbon-free, nuclear energy can cause long-term environmental damage in the event of accidents, releasing harmful radioactive materials.
- High Costs and Delays: Nuclear plants, especially large-scale ones, have a history of exceeding budgets and timelines.
- Public Perception: Environmental groups argue that nuclear energy is neither safe nor clean due to its history of accidents and expensive operations.
U.S. Government’s Role
- Re-establishing Nuclear Leadership: The U.S. aims to maintain its leadership in nuclear energy amidst competition from countries like China and Russia.
- Clean Energy Goals: The U.S. Department of Energy highlights that nuclear energy is crucial to reducing carbon emissions, preventing nearly 500 million metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.
- Support for SMRs: The U.S. is actively supporting SMR development due to their scalability, lower costs, and suitability for various locations, including regions that cannot support traditional reactors.
Additional Facts
- SMR Cost Advantage: SMRs are expected to cost about 30% less to construct than large-scale reactors, making them more viable for both developed and developing economies.
- India’s Nuclear Program: India has been exploring nuclear energy as part of its clean energy transition. The inclusion of SMRs could help India achieve its energy security goals while reducing emissions.
- Fusion Technology: In the long term, fusion reactors (being developed by companies like Helion) are seen as a potentially limitless source of clean energy without the risks associated with fission reactors.
India’s fourth nuclear submarine launched into water
Why in News?
The S4* carries the advanced 3,500 km range SLBM K-4 that was tested for the first time in 2020. The K-4 will be the mainstay of India’s undersea nuclear deterrence as it provides standoff capability.
Introduction
India’s naval capabilities took a significant leap forward with the launch of its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), the S4*, on October 16, 2024, in Visakhapatnam. The S4* represents an advanced class of SSBNs that enhances India’s nuclear deterrence and strengthens its “nuclear triad.” The submarine’s ability to carry advanced, long-range submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) underscores India’s strategic stance of ‘Credible Minimum Deterrence’ and its commitment to a ‘No First Use’ nuclear policy.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Submarine Type | Nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) |
| Launched | at the Ship Building Centre (SBC), Visakhapatnam |
| Class | S4* (Advanced version of INS Arihant) |
| Nuclear Reactor | Improved version with greater displacement and enhanced reactor technology |
| Indigenous Contribution | Extensive involvement of Indian industry |
| Missile Capability | Equipped with the K-4 SLBM, with a range of 3,500 km |
Why is the S4 Significant for India?
- Improved Capabilities: The S4* represents a significant technological upgrade from India’s first SSBN, INS Arihant, commissioned in 2016. It has a larger displacement and an improved nuclear reactor, enhancing its operational capabilities. It can carry more K-4 SLBMs, which have a range of 3,500 km. This capability allows India to strike from underwater while remaining within its territorial waters, ensuring a credible second-strike capability.
- Indigenous Development: The S4* was developed with significant participation from Indian industries, contributing to India’s aim of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
- Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD): The nuclear deterrence strategy rests on the concept of Credible Minimum Deterrence (CMD), where India maintains enough nuclear capability to retaliate against a first strike. The S4* adds to India’s assured second-strike capability. It adheres to India’s No First Use (NFU) nuclear policy, declared in 2003 as part of its nuclear doctrine.
- Nuclear Triad: The launch of the S4* and the development of its advanced missile systems such as the K-4 SLBM strengthen India’s nuclear triad—the ability to launch nuclear weapons from land, air, and sea. The completion of the triad was announced in 2018 after INS Arihant’s first deterrence patrol.
India’s SSBN Fleet Overview
| Submarine | Commissioned | Missile Armament | Missile Range | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INS Arihant (S2) | 2016 | K-15 SLBM | 750 km | Operational |
| INS Arighaat (S3) | 2024 | K-15 SLBM | 750 km | Operational |
| INS Aridhman (S4) | Expected in 2025 | K-4 SLBM | 3,500 km | Undergoing sea trials |
| INS S4* | 2024 | K-4 SLBM | 3,500 km | Recently launched |
Strategic Implications
- Regional Security: The launch of the S4* adds a critical layer of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region, helping India balance emerging security threats, especially from China and Pakistan.
- Indo-Pacific Monitoring: The development of nuclear attack submarines (SSNs), recently approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security, complements the SSBN fleet and will enhance India’s ability to monitor the Indo-Pacific region.
- Technological Edge: By developing a robust SSBN fleet, India ensures a continuous presence of nuclear-armed submarines, offering survivability even in worst-case nuclear conflict scenarios.
Additional Facts
- Nuclear Triad: India joins a select group of nations, including the US, Russia, and China, that possess a complete nuclear triad.
- K-4 SLBM:
Range: 3,500 km
Propulsion: Two-stage, solid-fuel
Launch: Can be launched from underwater. - Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) Project: This program, launched in the 1980s, aims to develop and induct nuclear-powered submarines into the Indian Navy, marking the start of the SSBN program.
- Nuclear Doctrine:
Credible Minimum Deterrence: India’s commitment to maintaining a minimal nuclear arsenal that is enough to deter adversaries.
No First Use (NFU): India will not be the first to initiate a nuclear strike but will retaliate massively if attacked with nuclear weapons.
Conclusion
India’s fourth nuclear-powered submarine enhances deterrence and strengthens its nuclear triad, showcasing advancements in defense technology and strategic capabilities in the Indo-Pacific.
FDA approval for Cobenfy casts light on schizophrenia’s wickedness
Why in News?
Cobenfy is the first antipsychotic drug to treat schizophrenia by targeting cholinergic receptors instead of dopamine receptors.
Context
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a novel antipsychotic drug called Cobenfy for the treatment of schizophrenia. This drug represents a significant development in schizophrenia treatment, as it is the first antipsychotic to target cholinergic receptors instead of the traditionally targeted dopamine receptors.
Schizophrenia: A Complex Psychiatric Disorder
Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric condition with life-altering consequences, including social isolation, stigma, and reduced life expectancy by 13-15 years. It affects about 1% of the global population, often emerging in late adolescence and early adulthood. Men are slightly more prone to developing schizophrenia, particularly in their early 20s, while new cases among women peak in their mid-40s. The disorder has a variety of symptoms that impact perception, cognition, and behaviour.
Major Clinical Symptoms of Schizophrenia
| Symptom Category | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Positive Symptoms (Reality distortion) | Delusions, hallucinations, disorganised speech (formal thought disorder) |
| Negative Symptoms | Reduced speech, lack of goal-directed behaviour, apathy, and diminished emotional expression |
| Disorganisation Symptoms | Thought disorder, disorganised behaviour, inappropriate affect |
| Cognitive Impairment | Deficits in attention, memory, judgement, and intellectual functions |
Causes of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is multifactorial, involving genetic and environmental factors. A 2014 genome-wide study identified 108 genetic loci associated with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is polygenic, meaning it results from the interaction of many genes of small effect sizes. Environmental factors, especially prenatal and perinatal complications, also play a crucial role in increasing the risk of developing schizophrenia.
Traditional Treatment: The Dopamine Hypothesis
For decades, antipsychotic drugs for schizophrenia have been based on the dopamine hypothesis, which posits that the disorder is linked to increased dopamine synthesis. While earlier theories focused on dopamine dysregulation, recent research has shown mixed results, requiring the development of new treatment approaches.
Cobenfy: A Novel Mechanism of Action
Cobenfy’s combination of xanomeline and trospium chloride marks a departure from dopamine-centric treatments. Xanomeline targets muscarinic receptors (cholinergic receptors), which are part of the parasympathetic nervous system and could address all types of schizophrenia symptoms. Trospium chloride is an antimuscarinic agent that reduces the adverse effects of xanomeline. This novel mechanism offers hope for patients unresponsive to dopamine-based treatments.
Side Effects of Cobenfy:
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Dizziness
Additional Facts
- Global Burden: Schizophrenia affects 1% of the global population.
- Life Expectancy: Schizophrenia reduces life expectancy by 13-15 years due to factors such as weight gain, substance abuse, and comorbidities.
- Suicide Risk: Approximately 5% of individuals with schizophrenia die by suicide.
IMF maintains India’s growth projection at 7% for FY25
Why in News?
The growth rate projection is 6.5% in the next fiscal year (FY2025-26).
Context
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its October 2024 World Economic Outlook (WEO) report reaffirmed its growth projection for India, forecasting a 7% growth rate for FY 2024-25, with a slight dip to 6.5% in FY 2025-26. These projections were released as part of the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings held in Washington, D.C.
Key Projections
| Country/Region | FY2024-25 Growth Rate | FY 2025-26 Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| India | 7.0% | 6.5% |
| World Output | 3.2% | 3.2% |
| United States | 2.8% | 2.2% |
Decline from FY2023
India’s growth projection has dropped from 8.2% in FY2023 to 7% for FY2024-25. The IMF attributes this decline to the exhaustion of pent-up demand, which had boosted the economy post-pandemic. As the economy returns to its natural growth potential, the growth rate moderates.
Global Economic Trends
- Global Inflation: IMF forecasts global inflation to decrease from a high of 9.4% in Q3 2022 to 3.5% by the end of 2025. The report mentions that the battle against inflation has been largely successful, though some countries still face persistent price pressures.
- Global Recession Avoided: Despite synchronized tightening of monetary policies worldwide, a global recession has been avoided. However, downside risks such as geopolitical tensions and protectionist policies continue to loom.
Geopolitical and Economic Risks
IMF highlighted several risks that could affect the global economic outlook:
- Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the intensifying West Asia conflict, pose risks to commodity markets and global trade.
- Protectionism: Growing protectionist policies could hinder global economic recovery.
- Monetary Tightening: Prolonged tight monetary policies in some countries could strain labor markets.
- Sovereign Debt Stress & China’s Weak Activity: Other risks include sovereign debt stress in developing economies and China’s weaker-than-expected economic activity.
IMF’s Triple Policy Pivot for Sustainable Growth
To address the “mediocre” global growth rate of 3.2%, the IMF recommended a “triple policy pivot”:
- Neutral Monetary Policy: Gradually shifting towards a neutral stance.
- Fiscal Buffering: Strengthening fiscal positions after years of accommodative policies.
- Structural Reforms: Focusing on long-term reforms to boost productivity, tackle demographic changes, manage climate transitions, and build economic resilience.
The job crisis undermines state legitimacy
Why in News?
Unemployment is not merely an economic issue, but a fundamental political challenge that strikes at the heart of how we organise our societies.
Context
India is currently facing a severe job crisis that goes beyond economic dimensions. This unemployment challenge threatens political stability by undermining the legitimacy of the state. The lack of good quality jobs, especially for youth, poses a significant risk to India’s societal organisation, creating disillusionment and discontent.
Key Aspects of the Job Crisis in India
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Good Quality Jobs | Defined as jobs that provide dignity, adequate compensation, and opportunities for learning and advancement. |
| Current Situation | Low unemployment rate masks the reality of widespread informal, unpaid, and dead-end jobs. |
| Youth Unemployment | Rising frustration among the youth due to lack of job opportunities and insufficient avenues for social and economic participation. |
| Political Consequences | The failure to address unemployment leads to the erosion of state legitimacy, rise in frustration, and threats to democratic stability. |
| Technology and Capital Impact | Technological advancements and capital concentration are exacerbating inequality by displacing workers without providing viable alternatives. |
The Twofold Political Problem
India’s job crisis highlights a twofold political problem:
- Dignity and Purpose: The erosion of traditional community ties has made work the primary source of social standing and belonging. Joblessness deprives individuals of dignity.
- Financial Security: The lack of stable employment prevents individuals from achieving financial independence, increasing economic disparity.
Joblessness and Societal Consequences
- Elites vs. Common People: The elite derive purpose and financial security from societal control, while the larger population faces disillusionment and marginalization.
- Technological Advancements: Automation and capital concentration may lead to permanent job losses, further intensifying the crisis of inequality.
- Political Instability: Without addressing structural inequalities, India faces a risk of populism, authoritarianism, and weakened democratic institutions.
Universal Basic Income (UBI) – A Superficial Solution?
UBI has been suggested as a solution to unemployment, but it brings several concerns:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ensures basic financial security | Ignores the need for societal contribution and relevance |
| Provides safety net during automation | Entrenches elite power by reducing focus on structural reforms |
| Simplifies economic transfers | Fails to provide dignity or purpose, risking populist discontent |
Structural Issues Ignored: UBI does not address deeper issues of dignity and economic participation. It risks shifting the state’s role to mere distribution, ignoring the need for a participatory economic system.
Addressing Structural Issues
The failure to address these issues is leading to:
- Civic Disengagement: People lose faith in political institutions when they feel ignored by the political class.
- Rise of Populism: Globally, populism and authoritarianism are on the rise due to inadequate responses to unemployment and inequality.
Solutions
- Restoring Public Purpose: There is a need for policies that focus on creating meaningful work and societal inclusion.
- Addressing Inequality: Reforms in labor markets, economic policies, and political engagement are necessary to restore faith in democratic processes.
Conclusion
Addressing unemployment in India through structural reforms is crucial for economic recovery and maintaining political legitimacy, safeguarding the nation’s democratic integrity.