Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (10-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Awards and Honours: Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to David Baker, Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for decoding protein design and structures |
| Polity and Governance: Union Cabinet approves continuation of free fortified rice supply |
| Economy: RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 6.5% |
| Environment and Ecology: Wildlife population declined by 73% in 50 years: WWF report |
| Art and Culture: Cabinet approves development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) |
Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to David Baker, Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for decoding protein design and structures
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: Awards and Honours, GS 3- Science and Technology
Context: 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Why in News
- The 2024 Nobel Prize for chemistry was shared by David Baker “for computational protein design” along with Demis Hassabis and John Jumper “for protein structure prediction.
Overview
- The 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper for their groundbreaking contributions in protein research.
- Baker was recognized for his work in computational protein design, while Hassabis and Jumper were awarded for their development of the AlphaFold 2 AI model, which can predict protein structures.
Contributions to Protein Research:
- David Baker’s Work on Computational Protein Design:
- Baker’s team designed a new protein using computational methods in 2003, a landmark achievement in biotechnology. This innovation led to the creation of “designer” proteins that could be tailored for specific applications, such as in medicine and industry.
- The research demonstrated the potential to engineer proteins with desired functions, providing a new approach to addressing health challenges, like developing new drugs or vaccines.
- Hassabis and Jumper’s AlphaFold 2:
- Demis Hassabis and John Jumper, both working at Google DeepMind, developed AlphaFold 2, an AI system that could predict the 3D structure of proteins from their amino acid sequences with unprecedented accuracy.
- Before AlphaFold, scientists had determined the structure of only around 170,000 proteins. AlphaFold transformed this field by predicting the structure of millions of proteins, accelerating scientific discovery in biology and medicine.
Significance of Protein Research:
- Proteins play a critical role in nearly all biological processes, and understanding their structure is essential for comprehending their function.
- By revealing how a protein’s sequence of amino acids relates to its structure, this research opens up possibilities for drug discovery, synthetic biology, and biotechnology.
- The ability to design proteins or predict their structure with AI could lead to advances in treating diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative conditions.
Broader Impact of AI in Chemistry:
- This year’s prize also reflects a growing trend where AI and machine learning intersect with traditional scientific disciplines.
- In particular, Hassabis and Jumper’s work represents a significant application of AI in biology and chemistry, showing the expanding influence of computational techniques in scientific discovery.
Nobel Prize Tradition:
- The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has recently been awarded to researchers from non-chemistry backgrounds, signaling the interdisciplinary nature of modern scientific advancements.
- As Roald Hoffmann, a 1981 Chemistry laureate, has noted, this demonstrates chemistry’s broad influence, especially in fields like biochemistry and molecular biology.
Nobel Prize:
- The Nobel Prize, established by Alfred Nobel’s will, is awarded to individuals who have conferred the “greatest benefit to humankind” through their work.
- This criterion is evident in this year’s chemistry laureates, whose research has the potential to revolutionize drug development and other critical areas of science and medicine.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Which of the following statements is correct regarding recent advancements in protein research, recognized by the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry?
A) David Baker’s research in protein structure led to the development of quantum computing models for protein folding. B) AlphaFold 2, developed by Demis Hassabis and John Jumper, uses artificial intelligence to predict protein structures from their amino acid sequences with high accuracy. C) David Baker and his team discovered the natural folding mechanism of proteins without the use of computational tools. D) The 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for developing drugs that alter protein synthesis in bacteria. |
Q. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. (2021)
1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India. 2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once. 3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year. Which of the above statements are not correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans. (d) |
| Answer – 1- B
Explanation –
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Union Cabinet approves continuation of free fortified rice supply
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Rice Fortification
Why in News
- The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of supply of free fortified rice under various welfare programmes from July 2024 to December 2028.
What is Fortification of Rice?
- Fortification is the process of adding nutrients to food products that are not naturally present or are present in insufficient amounts.
- Fortification of rice can be done by coating the rice grains with a premix of micronutrients, or by producing extruded rice kernels that are enriched with micronutrients and then blended with regular rice.
- According to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms, 1 kg fortified rice shall contain iron (28 mg-42.5 mg), folic acid (75-125 microgram) and Vitamin B-12 (0.75-1.25 microgram).
Purpose:
- India has very high levels of malnutrition among women and children. According to the Food Ministry, every second woman in the country is anemic and every third child is stunted.
- Rice is a source of protein and contains various vitamins. Some nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, and manganese, are lost during milling and polishing (the process by which brown rice becomes white or polished rice).
- Rice is one of the most widely consumed staple foods in the world, especially in Asia and Africa.
- Per capita rice consumption in India is 6.8 kg per month. Therefore, fortifying rice with micronutrients is an option to supplement the diet of the poor.
- Iron deficiency also is a major public health problem that affects more than two billion people globally, causing anaemia, weakness, fatigue, impaired learning and increased risk of infections and maternal mortality.
- To address this problem, some countries have adopted the strategy of fortifying rice with iron and other micronutrients, such as folic acid and vitamin B12.
- Most of the iron we need comes from meat, which gets absorbed 50% by our body.
- Through vegetables, there is limited intake and only 3% absorption. This is the reason why iron deficiency is a major problem in India.
Key Details of the Initiative:
- The fortified rice distribution initiative aims to ensure inclusive nutritional security by addressing anaemia and other micronutrient deficiencies in India.
- The programme will continue as a central sector initiative with 100% funding by the central government, ensuring that fortified rice is provided for free under various welfare schemes to improve the overall health and productivity of vulnerable groups.
The schemes under which fortified rice will be distributed include:
- Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS)
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
- PM POSHAN (previously known as the Midday Meal Scheme)
The initiative covers all States and Union Territories (UTs), ensuring widespread and universal access to fortified rice for eligible populations.
Phased Implementation and Success:
- The government began implementing the fortified rice programme in a phased manner.
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs had initially set a target to achieve universal coverage of fortified rice under government schemes by March 2024.
- As of March 2024, the government successfully achieved this target, completing all three phases of the project.
- By the end of these phases, fortified rice became available through all major food distribution schemes, marking a significant milestone in India’s public health and nutrition efforts.
Nutritional Importance of Rice Fortification:
- According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) conducted between 2019 and 2021, anaemia continues to be a widespread health issue in India, affecting children, women, and men across all age groups.
- Anaemia is primarily caused by iron deficiency, but other deficiencies, such as Vitamin B12 and folic acid, also contribute to the problem.
- These deficiencies not only affect individual health but also have broader implications for national productivity and economic development.
- Rice fortification is seen as an effective method to tackle these deficiencies. Since 65% of India’s population consumes rice as a staple food, rice serves as an ideal medium for delivering essential micronutrients to a large segment of the population.
- The fortification process involves mixing fortified rice kernels (FRKs), which are enriched with essential micronutrients like Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12, with regular rice.
- The standards for these fortified rice kernels are regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure that the fortified rice meets the necessary nutritional requirements.
Health and Economic Impacts:
- Anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies have serious health consequences, particularly among women and children. For children, such deficiencies can affect physical and cognitive development, while for women of reproductive age, anaemia can lead to complications during pregnancy.
- Addressing these nutritional deficiencies through fortified rice will help improve overall public health, reduce healthcare costs, and increase productivity, contributing to India’s broader social and economic goals.
Long-Term Vision (2024-2028):
- The decision to extend the programme from July 2024 to December 2028 reflects the government’s long-term commitment to combating malnutrition and improving public health.
- Over this period, fortified rice will continue to be distributed for free through the targeted welfare programmes, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the nutritional benefits necessary for improved health outcomes.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding rice fortification in India?
1. Fortified rice is enriched with micronutrients such as Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12. 2. The initiative is fully funded by the central government under a central sector scheme. 3. Fortified rice will only be distributed under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) in selected States. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A) 1 only |
Q. Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes? (2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 5 only Ans: (b) |
| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: Fortified rice is enriched with essential micronutrients such as Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12, which are important to address widespread nutritional deficiencies in India. · Statement 2 is correct: The rice fortification initiative is a central sector scheme with 100% funding by the central government, ensuring it is available free of cost. · Statement 3 is incorrect: Fortified rice will be distributed not only under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) but also through other welfare schemes like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and PM POSHAN across all States and Union Territories. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 6.5%
Source: New Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Economy
Context: Repo Rate and Monetary Policy
Why in News
- The Reserve Bank of India kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.5%.
Key Findings
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its policy review meeting on Wednesday, kept the repo rate unchanged at 5% for the 10th consecutive time.
- However, a significant shift in its stance from “calibrated tightening” to “neutral” signals a potential change in the monetary policy direction in the near future, possibly hinting at a rate cut in upcoming policies.
Repo Rate and Policy Stance:
- Repo rate refers to the rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks. It has been held steady at 6.5% for the 10th time in a row.
- The change in stance from “calibrated tightening” to neutral is important because it may mark the start of an easing cycle, meaning the RBI could begin cutting rates, possibly as early as December 2024.
Inflation and Economic Growth:
- Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized that the RBI’s shift in stance does not necessarily indicate a pivot. He pointed out that the balance between inflation and growth is improving, allowing the central bank to adopt a more neutral stance.
- The RBI has retained its retail inflation projection at 4.5% for the financial year 2024-25, indicating that inflation is expected to remain moderate. However, Das cautioned that inflation needs to be closely monitored, as sudden price spikes (“inflation horse”) could disrupt the economy.
Global Context and Comparisons:
- Despite the US Federal Reserve cutting its benchmark interest rates by 50 basis points in the previous month, the RBI has opted for a more cautious approach by keeping the repo rate unchanged.
- Other central banks in developed nations have also started reducing their interest rates, but India’s central bank is carefully weighing domestic conditions before making any similar moves.
Reconstituted Monetary Policy Committee (MPC):
- This meeting was the first after the reconstitution of the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
- The newly appointed external members are Ram Singh, Saugata Bhattacharya, and Nagesh Kumar.
- These members play a key role in the decision-making process related to monetary policy.
Repo Rate:
- The repo rate is the interest rate at which a country’s central bank, such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), lends money to commercial banks for short-term periods. It is a key tool used by the central bank to control liquidity in the economy and regulate inflation.
How it works:
- When banks need funds, they can borrow from the RBI by providing government securities as collateral. In return, they pay interest on the borrowed amount, which is the repo rate.
- For example, if the repo rate is 6.5%, a bank borrowing ₹100 crore from the RBI will need to pay 6.5% interest.
Impact on the economy:
- High repo rate: When the repo rate is high, borrowing becomes more expensive for commercial banks. This increases the cost of loans for businesses and individuals, reducing demand and helping control inflation.
- Low repo rate: When the repo rate is low, borrowing becomes cheaper, encouraging businesses and consumers to take loans. This boost spending and investments, stimulating economic growth.
Monetary Policy:
- Monetary policy refers to the process by which the central bank manages money supply and interest rates to achieve macroeconomic objectives like controlling inflation, ensuring stable economic growth, and managing employment levels.
- In India, the RBI sets monetary policy through the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
- Main objectives of monetary policy:
- Control inflation: The central bank targets inflation within a certain range (in India, it’s 4%, with a margin of +/- 2%). By adjusting interest rates, the RBI can increase or decrease demand in the economy.
- Promote economic growth: Lower interest rates can boost investment and consumption, which helps in economic growth.
- Ensure financial stability: By managing money supply and interest rates, the RBI ensures a stable banking system and prevents excessive inflation or deflation.
Types of monetary policy:
- Accommodative (or Expansionary): When the central bank reduces interest rates to increase money supply, boost spending, and stimulate growth.
- Tight (or Contractionary): When the central bank raises interest rates to reduce money supply and control inflation.
- Neutral: A stance where the central bank neither aims to tighten nor loosen monetary conditions, maintaining stability.
Repo Rate and Monetary Policy in Action:
- When inflation is high, the RBI might increase the repo rate. This makes loans costlier, reduces borrowing, and slows down economic activity, thereby bringing inflation under control.
- When growth is slow, the RBI might lower the repo rate. This encourages borrowing and investment, boosting demand and economic growth.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Which of the following statements regarding the repo rate and monetary policy is/are correct?
1. The repo rate is the rate at which the central bank of a country lends money to commercial banks against government securities. 2. An increase in the repo rate by the central bank leads to higher borrowing costs for commercial banks, which in turn can reduce inflation. 3. A decrease in the repo rate is typically associated with a contractionary monetary policy. 4. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is responsible for determining the repo rate in India. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (A) 1 and 2 only (B) 1, 2, and 4 only (C) 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3, and 4 |
Q. If the RBI decides to adopt an expansionist monetary policy, which of the following would it not do? (2020)
1. Cut and optimize the Statutory Liquidity Ratio 2. Increase the Marginal Standing Facility Rate 3. Cut the Bank Rate and Repo Rate Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b)
|
| Answer 3- B
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The repo rate is the rate at which the central bank (RBI in India) lends money to commercial banks against government securities. · Statement 2 is correct: An increase in the repo rate raises borrowing costs for banks, which then pass on the higher costs to consumers, leading to reduced borrowing and spending, thereby helping control inflation. · Statement 3 is incorrect: A decrease in the repo rate is associated with expansionary monetary policy, which aims to increase liquidity and stimulate economic growth, not contraction. · Statement 4 is correct: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) determines the repo rate in India. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Wildlife population declined by 73% in 50 years: WWF report
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: Living Planet Report
Why in News
- The World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) biennial Living Planet Report reveals a stark 73% decline in global wildlife populations over the past 50 years.
Overview
- The World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) biennial Living Planet Report reveals a stark 73% decline in global wildlife populations over the past 50 years.
- This decline is attributed to several key factors: habitat loss and degradation, the impacts of climate change, and invasive species.
- In India, the report highlights the alarming decline of three vulture species – the white-rumped vulture, Indian vulture, and slender-billed vulture.
Basis of the Report’s Conclusions
- The report is based on the tracking of 35,000 population trends and 5,495 species, including amphibians, mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles.
- Importantly, the decline refers to changes in the monitored populations rather than the number of species lost.
- The highest reduction was observed in freshwater populations, which declined by 85%, followed by a 69% drop in terrestrial populations, and a 56% decline in marine populations.
- This pattern reflects the pressure placed on various ecosystems.
Main Drivers of Wildlife Decline
The dominant causes of this decline include:
- Habitat loss and degradation, driven by unsustainable agriculture, land fragmentation, logging, and mining.
- Over-exploitation of wildlife.
- Climate change impacts, affecting species’ ability to survive and reproduce.
- Pollution, leading to toxic environments for species.
- Invasive species that disrupt native ecosystems.
- Diseases that reduce wildlife resilience.
Ecological and Long-term Impacts
- The report emphasizes that when wildlife populations fall below a critical level, species may no longer fulfill their roles in ecosystems.
- These roles include vital processes like seed dispersal, pollination, nutrient cycling, and grazing.
- As a result, the entire ecosystem may weaken and collapse.
- The cumulative impacts of declining biodiversity can eventually lead to tipping points, where ecosystems reach a threshold of damage that could cause irreversible changes, further accelerating the loss of biodiversity.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
- The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the largest and most recognized independent conservation organizations in the world.
- Founded: WWF was established in 1961.
- Headquarters: The organization’s headquarters is located in Gland, Switzerland.
- Global Reach: WWF operates in over 100 countries, with offices and projects focused on wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following statements about the Living Planet Report published by WWF is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code below: a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 4 only c) 1, 3, and 4 only d) 1, 2, 3, and 4 |
Q. India’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business Index’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following has declared that ranking? (2016) (a) Organization Cooperation (OECD) for and Economic Development (b) World Economic Forum (c) World Bank (d) World Trade Organization (WTO) Ans- C
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| Answer 4- C
Explanation · Statement 1 is Correct. The Living Planet Report is published every two years by WWF, providing updates on the state of global biodiversity and the health of ecosystems. · Statement 2 is Incorrect. While the report does include terrestrial ecosystems, it also covers freshwater and marine ecosystems. Thus, it does not focus exclusively on terrestrial ecosystems. · Statement 3 is Correct. The report tracks and analyzes the population trends of a wide range of species across different ecosystems, providing insights into the status of biodiversity globally. · Statement 4 is correct. The Living Planet Report addresses the impacts of climate change on wildlife, ecosystems, and biodiversity, emphasizing how these factors contribute to the decline of various species. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |
Cabinet approves development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2063453
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS1-Art and Culture
Context: National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)
Why in news
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the development of National Maritime Heritage Complex(NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat.
National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)
- The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is a significant initiative aimed at preserving and showcasing India’s rich maritime history and heritage.
- The NMHC is designed to celebrate and highlight India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage. It aims to educate visitors about the historical significance of maritime activities, shipbuilding, trade, and naval history in India.
- The complex is being developed at Lothal, Gujarat, an ancient city known for its historical port that was part of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Overview of the NMHC Project
- Purpose and Vision:
- The project is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to highlight India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage. It aims to establish a world-class heritage museum that celebrates the historical significance of maritime activities in India.
- Location:
- The NMHC is to be constructed at Lothal, Gujarat, which is historically significant as one of the oldest ports in India.
Phased Development
The NMHC project will be implemented in multiple phases, allowing for structured development and funding:
- Phase 1A:
- Current Status: This phase is already under implementation with over 60% physical progress.
- Completion Timeline: It is expected to be completed by 2025.
- Features: It will include a museum with six galleries, showcasing naval artifacts, replicas of historical Lothal town, and an open aquatic gallery with a jetty walkway. Notably, it will feature an Indian Navy & Coast Guard gallery, one of the largest in the country.
- Phase 1B:
- Funding: Construction of the Light House Museum under this phase will be funded by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).
- Features: This phase will add eight more galleries and a lighthouse museum planned to be the world’s tallest, along with a Bagicha complex featuring amenities like parking for 1,500 cars, a food hall, and a medical center.
- Phase 2:
- Development Mode: This phase will be developed through land subleasing and public-private partnerships (PPP).
- Features: It will include Coastal States Pavilions (developed by respective coastal states and union territories), a hospitality zone with a maritime-themed eco-resort, a recreation of the ancient Lothal city, a maritime institute and hostel, and four theme-based parks (Maritime & Naval Theme Park, Climate Change Theme Park, Monuments Park, and Adventure & Amusement Park).
Governance and Management
- A separate society will be established under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, to oversee the implementation, management, and operation of the NMHC. This society will be governed by a council led by the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.
Employment Generation and Community Impact
- Job Creation: The NMHC project is expected to create approximately 22,000 jobs, including 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect jobs, significantly contributing to local employment.
- Beneficiaries: The development will benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Local communities and businesses
- Tourists and visitors
- Researchers and scholars
- Government bodies and educational institutions
- Cultural organizations and environment/conservation groups
Architectural Planning
- The master plan for the NMHC has been developed by the renowned architectural firm M/s Architect Hafeez Contractor, with Tata Projects Ltd. entrusted with the construction of Phase 1A.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5 Which of the following statements about the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code below: A) 1 and 3 only |
Q. Which one of the following is not a Harappan site? (2019)
(a) Chanhudaro (b) Kot Diji (c) Sohgaura (d) Desalpur
Ans (c)
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| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: Lothal is indeed known as an ancient port city of the Indus Valley Civilization and is the site where the NMHC is being developed. · Statement 2 is Incorrect: The NMHC aims to showcase India’s maritime heritage that spans over 4,500 years, not just 2,000 years. · Statement 3 is correct: Phase 1A does include an extensive gallery dedicated to the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, showcasing various naval artifacts. · Statement 4 is Incorrect: The NMHC is designed to encompass a broader scope, including both terrestrial and aquatic maritime heritage, and will not limit itself to terrestrial activities. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |