Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (18-12-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Environment and Ecology: India’s e-waste surges by 73% in 5 years |
| Science and Technology: Ustad Zakir Hussain died of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. What is this lung condition? |
| Sri Lanka–India Exercise – 24 (Slinex-24) |
| The legal gaps in India’s unregulated AI surveillance |
| Polity and Governance: Kisan Kavach: Bharat’s Indigenous Anti Pesticide Suit to Safeguard Farmers’ Health |
India’s e-waste surges by 73% in 5 years
Source: Down-to-earth
https://www.downtoearth.org.in/waste/indias-e-waste-surges-by-73-in-5-years
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: E-waste and E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022
Why in News
India witnessed a 72.54% rise in e-waste generation over five years with efforts underway under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.
Surge in E-Waste Generation in India: A Comprehensive Analysis
- India has witnessed a significant rise in electronic waste (e-waste) generation over the past five years, reflecting the rapid growth in the use of electronic and electrical equipment (EEE).
- Data presented by the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, in the Rajya Sabha on December 16, 2024, highlights this challenge and the steps being taken to address it.
Key Data on E-Waste Generation in India
- Increase in E-Waste Volume:
- E-waste generation rose from 1.01 million metric tonnes (MT) in 2019-20 to 1.751 million MT in 2023-24, marking a 72.54% increase.
- The sharpest growth was observed between 2019-20 and 2020-21, attributed to the surge in electronic device usage during the COVID-19 pandemic due to work-from-home and online learning requirements.
- State-Wise Data:
- While national-level data is available, state-wise e-waste generation figures are not maintained. E-waste estimates are derived using sales data from producers and the average lifespan of EEE items.
- Category Expansion:
- Until 2022-23, e-waste data was calculated for 21 EEE items under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016.
- From 2023-24 onwards, e-waste estimates will include a broader list of 106 EEE items.
Environmental and Health Concerns of E-Waste
E-waste contains hazardous materials such as heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic) and persistent organic pollutants. Improper disposal and recycling methods can lead to:
- Environmental Damage:
- Contamination of soil and water.
- Release of toxic fumes into the air.
- Health Risks:
- Adverse effects on neurological, respiratory, and reproductive systems.
- Long-term exposure to toxins leading to cancer and organ damage.
E-Waste Recycling Efforts in India
- Recycling Rates:
- The share of e-waste recycled increased from 22% in 2019-20 to 43% in 2023-24.
- Despite the progress, 990,000 MT (57%) of e-waste remains unprocessed, reflecting a significant gap between generation and recycling.
- Challenges in Recycling:
- Low recycling rates are attributed to the lack of coordination among stakeholders.
- The informal sector plays a dominant role in last-mile collection but lacks integration with formal recycling systems.
E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022
Effective from April 1, 2023, these updated rules aim to streamline e-waste management by introducing the following measures:
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):
- Producers are assigned annual recycling targets based on the e-waste generated or products sold.
- They must purchase EPR certificates from registered recyclers, which are issued based on the quantity of e-waste recycled.
- Bulk Consumers:
- Public institutions such as schools and government offices are designated as bulk consumers under the rules.
- These institutions must ensure that e-waste is handed over to registered recyclers, refurbishers, or producers.
Key Issues Highlighted by Experts
- Integration of Informal Sector:
- The informal sector, which handles the majority of e-waste collection, needs to be integrated into formal recycling frameworks to enhance efficiency and compliance.
- Proper channelling of e-waste to registered recycling facilities can reduce environmental and health hazards.
- Sustainable Practices and Incentives:
- There is an urgent need for tax incentives to encourage manufacturers to design eco-friendly, recyclable products.
- Such measures can promote sustainable product design and responsible recycling practices.
- Lack of Tax Credit System:
- Currently, the government has not implemented tax credits for electronics manufacturers who adopt sustainable and recyclable designs. This omission reduces the incentive for manufacturers to shift to eco-friendly production methods.
Steps Forward
- Policy Enhancements:
- Introduce tax credit systems for manufacturers to promote sustainable design and recycling.
- Strengthen the monitoring and enforcement of EPR targets to ensure compliance by producers and recyclers.
- Capacity Building:
- Train and incentivise the informal workforce to align with formal recycling systems.
- Increase the number of authorised recycling facilities and refurbishing centres across the country.
- Awareness Campaigns:
- Educate bulk consumers and the general public on proper disposal methods and the environmental benefits of e-waste recycling.
- Promote buyback schemes and producer-led collection programs.
- Technology and Infrastructure:
- Invest in advanced recycling technologies to process hazardous materials efficiently.
- Build infrastructure to manage the expanded list of 106 EEE items under the updated rules.
Conclusion
- The exponential rise in e-waste generation in India highlights the urgency of adopting comprehensive strategies for sustainable waste management.
- While government initiatives such as the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, have set the framework for addressing the challenge, the gap between waste generated and processed underscores the need for enhanced stakeholder engagement, better incentives, and improved infrastructure.
- Collaboration between the informal sector, government, and producers will be pivotal in addressing this growing concern effectively.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. With reference to e-waste management in India, consider the following statements:
1. The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). 2. E-waste generation estimates are based on state-level data provided by municipal corporations. 3. Public institutions, including schools and government offices, are categorised as bulk consumers under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste? (2013)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only Ans: (b) |
| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation –
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Ustad Zakir Hussain died of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. What is this lung condition?
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
Why in News
Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away at 73 due to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)?
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive lung disease that causes scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissues. Over time, this scarring thickens and stiffens the lungs, making it harder for them to expand during breathing. As a result, the lungs lose their ability to effectively oxygenate the blood, leading to breathing difficulties.
- Idiopathic: The term “idiopathic” means the disease has no known cause.
- Pulmonary fibrosis: Refers to the scarring of lung tissue.
IPF is the most common type of pulmonary fibrosis, and it falls under the broader category of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), which are characterized by inflammation, scarring, or both in the lungs.
How Does IPF Affect the Lungs?
- The lungs are made up of millions of air sacs called alveoli that facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- In IPF, the alveoli and surrounding lung tissue become thick, stiff, and less elastic due to scarring.
- This loss of elasticity makes it difficult for the lungs to expand during breathing and disrupts the oxygen exchange process, resulting in reduced oxygen levels in the blood.
Causes and Risk Factors
Although IPF is “idiopathic” and its exact cause is unknown, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition:
- Age: Most cases are diagnosed in people over 50; it is rare in younger individuals.
- Smoking: Current or former smokers are at higher risk.
- Family History: A genetic predisposition may play a role in some cases.
- Environmental Exposure: Prolonged exposure to certain substances, such as:
- Metal dust
- Wood dust
- Organic dust
- Associated Conditions:
- Viral infections may trigger or worsen lung damage.
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux into the lungs can contribute to fibrosis.
Symptoms of IPF
In the early stages, many individuals may not notice symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more apparent:
- Shortness of Breath: Initially, this occurs during physical activity but worsens over time.
- Dry, Persistent Cough: A nagging cough without phlegm.
- Fatigue: Due to the body working harder to get oxygen.
- Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Unexplained and gradual.
- Clubbing of Fingers: Rounded and swollen fingertips due to oxygen deficiency.
- Chest Pain or Tightness: May occur in advanced stages.
Diagnosis of IPF
Diagnosing IPF involves a comprehensive assessment as its symptoms mimic other lung diseases:
- Medical and Work History: Identifying possible exposure to harmful substances.
- Imaging Tests:
- High-Resolution CT (HRCT) Scan: Reveals patterns of lung scarring characteristic of IPF.
- Lung Function Tests: Measure lung capacity and oxygen exchange efficiency.
- Six-Minute Walk Test: Assesses how well the lungs supply oxygen during physical activity.
- Blood Tests: Rule out infections or autoimmune conditions.
- Lung Biopsy: In rare cases, a small tissue sample is taken for detailed examination.
Treatment Options for IPF
There is no cure for IPF, but treatments aim to slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life:
- Medications:
- Antifibrotic Drugs like Pirfenidone and Nintedanib are used to slow lung scarring.
- Oxygen Therapy:
- Supplemental oxygen may be needed as the disease worsens to support breathing.
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation:
- Exercises designed to improve lung function and make daily activities easier.
- Lung Transplant:
- In advanced cases, a transplant may be recommended for eligible patients.
- Management of GERD:
- Treating acid reflux can prevent further lung damage.
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Smoking cessation, avoiding dust exposure, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial.
Prognosis and Survival
- The progression of IPF varies from person to person, and the disease’s course is unpredictable.
- Average Survival Rate:
- About 50–60% of patients survive five years after diagnosis.
- Factors influencing prognosis include age, disease severity at diagnosis, and response to treatment.
Environmental and Public Health Concerns
IPF highlights the importance of minimizing exposure to environmental pollutants, improving workplace safety standards, and addressing the rising burden of lung diseases caused by air pollution and smoking.
| Answer 2– A
Explanation –
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| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 With reference to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), consider the following statements:
1. It is a chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissues, making breathing difficult. 2. The exact cause of IPF is unknown, but environmental and genetic factors may increase the risk. 3. IPF can be completely cured through medication and pulmonary rehabilitation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body? 2022
A They protect the body from environmental allergens. B They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation. C They act as immunosuppressants in the body. D They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens. Ans: (d)
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Sri Lanka–India Exercise – 24 (Slinex-24)
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2084913
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: SLINEX 2024
Why in News
SLINEX 2024, a bilateral naval exercise between India and Sri Lanka, is being conducted at Visakhapatnam focusing on enhancing maritime cooperation and interoperability.
SLINEX 2024 Overview
SLINEX (Sri Lanka–India Naval Exercise) is a series of bilateral naval exercises between India and Sri Lanka that began in 2005. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in fostering maritime cooperation between the two neighboring countries. The 2024 edition of SLINEX is scheduled to take place from December 17 to 20, 2024, in Visakhapatnam, under the aegis of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Naval Command. The exercise will be conducted in two phases:
- Harbour Phase (December 17–18, 2024):
This phase focuses on interactions between the naval forces while stationed in the harbor. Activities include professional discussions, social exchanges, and interactions to foster mutual understanding and camaraderie between personnel from both navies. The inaugural ceremony on December 17 will officially commence the exercise. - Sea Phase (December 19–20, 2024):
This phase involves hands-on joint operations at sea. Activities include:
- Special Forces operations: Collaborative drills involving the Special Forces teams from both navies.
- Gun firings: Practice using naval weaponry.
- Communication drills: Exercises to improve coordination in real-time maritime operations.
- Seamanship practices: Skills for ship handling and maintenance at sea.
- Navigation evolutions: Training in precise navigation techniques.
- Helicopter operations: Coordinated operations between ships and naval helicopters.
Participating Units
- Indian Navy:
- INS Sumitra: A Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) of the Eastern Fleet.
- A Special Forces team from the Indian Navy.
- Sri Lankan Navy:
- SLNS Sayura: An Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) equipped with a Special Forces team.
Significance of SLINEX
- Strengthening Maritime Cooperation
- The exercise enhances interoperability between the two navies, ensuring they can operate seamlessly together in joint missions.
- It also allows the sharing of best practices in operational procedures, seamanship, and communication strategies.
- Expanding the Scope of Operations
- Over the years, SLINEX has evolved from basic operational coordination to conducting complex maritime exercises.
- It provides a platform for both countries to work together on Special Forces operations and helicopter-borne exercises, which are vital for modern naval warfare.
- Reinforcing Maritime Security
- The exercise contributes to creating a safe, secure, and rules-based maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), crucial for both nations’ security and economic interests.
- Promoting Regional Stability
- India and Sri Lanka share a common goal of promoting stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean, countering piracy, terrorism, and other maritime threats.
- Diplomatic and Cultural Ties
- Beyond professional interactions, the Harbour Phase strengthens interpersonal bonds through social exchanges, reflecting the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.
Key Takeaways of SLINEX 2024
- Collaborative Operations: The focus on Special Forces drills, helicopter operations, and weaponry usage highlights the advanced level of coordination between the two navies.
- Enhancing Interoperability: By operating jointly, both navies gain a better understanding of each other’s capabilities and techniques, which is critical in real-world scenarios.
- Regional Maritime Security: As both nations are situated in the strategically important Indian Ocean Region, SLINEX is pivotal in addressing common maritime challenges and promoting security.
- Historical Context: Initiated in 2005, SLINEX is a testament to the growing trust and partnership between India and Sri Lanka.
SLINEX 2024 will further consolidate maritime ties and contribute to maintaining peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the region.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding SLINEX (Sri Lanka–India Naval Exercise):
1. SLINEX 2024 is being conducted at Visakhapatnam under the aegis of the Southern Naval Command. 2. The exercise features two phases: a Harbour Phase and a Sea Phase. 3. SLNS Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, represents the Sri Lankan Navy in SLINEX 2024. Which of the above statements is/are correct? |
Q.’Hand-in-Hand 2007′ a joint anti- terrorism military training was held by the officers of the Indian Army and officers of the Army of which one of the following countries? (2008)
(a) China (b) Japan (c) Russia (d) USA Ans: (a)
|
| Answer 3– B
Explanation – · SLINEX 2024 is being conducted at Visakhapatnam under the aegis of the Southern Naval Command. o This statement is incorrect. SLINEX 2024 is being conducted at Visakhapatnam under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command, not the Southern Naval Command. · The exercise features two phases: a Harbour Phase and a Sea Phase. o This statement is correct. SLINEX 2024 is structured into two phases: o Harbour Phase: December 17 to 18 o Sea Phase: December 19 to 20 · SLNS Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, represents the Sri Lankan Navy in SLINEX 2024. o This statement is correct. SLNS Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, is participating in SLINEX 2024. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
The legal gaps in India’s unregulated AI surveillance
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Science and Technology
Context: AI-Powered Surveillance in India
Why in News
India’s use of AI surveillance, including facial recognition and AI satellites, raises privacy and regulatory concerns.
Overview
- The Indian government’s ambition to build the world’s largest facial recognition system for policing, along with integrating AI into law enforcement, raises critical legal, constitutional, and ethical questions.
- While AI has the potential to transform public safety and governance, it also brings challenges to citizens’ privacy and civil liberties.
India’s AI Surveillance Ambitions
- Deployment of AI-Powered Technologies:
- India has integrated AI in various law enforcement activities. For instance:
- AI-powered surveillance systems have been installed at railway stations.
- The Delhi Police is planning to use AI for crime patrols.
- The government has announced plans to launch 50 AI-powered satellites to bolster its surveillance capabilities.
- India has integrated AI in various law enforcement activities. For instance:
- Facial Recognition Systems:
- India initiated its move toward AI-powered surveillance in 2019, with the goal of creating the world’s largest facial recognition system. This system is now operational and has expanded across public spaces like railways and urban policing.
- Hyderabad Police Data Breach:
- A data breach involving Telangana’s Samagra Vedika database raised concerns about law enforcement’s access to sensitive personal data, including information from social welfare schemes.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns
- Right to Privacy (Article 21):
- The Supreme Court of India in the landmark K.S. Puttaswamy vs Union of India (2017) case declared privacy a fundamental right, extending it to include “informational privacy.”
- Any data collection or surveillance must adhere to the principles of legality, legitimate aim, and proportionality.
- The growing surveillance infrastructure and lack of safeguards risk infringing on citizens’ privacy rights.
- Challenges in the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA), 2023:
- While the DPDPA provides a framework for data privacy, its broad exemptions weaken its effectiveness:
- Section 7(g): Exempts the government from requiring consent for processing data during medical emergencies.
- Section 7(i): Allows the government to bypass consent requirements for data collection related to employment.
- These exemptions create scope for misuse, especially in the context of AI surveillance.
- While the DPDPA provides a framework for data privacy, its broad exemptions weaken its effectiveness:
- Obligations on Citizens:
- Section 15(c) mandates that citizens provide accurate data and refrain from suppressing information. This provision could lead to punitive measures for minor errors, such as outdated addresses, potentially penalizing citizens for inaccuracies in government databases.
- Lack of Proportional Safeguards:
- The current surveillance practices often involve indiscriminate data collection (dragnet surveillance), which goes beyond targeting suspects or criminals.
- The absence of proportional safeguards leads to concerns about surveillance overreach and potential misuse of collected data.
Comparison with Global Practices
- European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act:
- The EU AI Act adopts a risk-based approach, categorizing AI applications into:
- Unacceptable risk: Prohibited, such as real-time remote biometric identification unless used for serious crime investigations.
- High risk: Strictly regulated, with oversight mechanisms.
- India’s approach contrasts sharply, as AI technologies are deployed without similar legislative debate, risk assessments, or public consultation.
- The EU AI Act adopts a risk-based approach, categorizing AI applications into:
- United States’ FISA Section 702:
- The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) of the US demonstrates how well-intentioned surveillance laws can lead to overreach, resulting in indiscriminate data collection.
- The Indian surveillance framework mirrors such issues, particularly in its lack of independent oversight.
- India’s Regulatory Gap:
- While countries like the US and the EU have begun legislating on AI use, India lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI surveillance.
- The Digital India Act, promised in 2022 to regulate AI, remains in the draft stage, leaving citizens vulnerable to data breaches, privacy violations, and algorithmic discrimination.
Need for a Comprehensive Regulatory Framework
- Transparency in Data Collection:
- Policies must mandate disclosure of:
- What data is collected.
- The purpose of data collection.
- The duration for which data will be stored.
- Transparency reports and independent audits are essential to ensure accountability.
- Consent Mechanisms with Judicial Oversight:
- While the DPDPA includes consent requirements, its broad exemptions dilute the safeguards.
- A robust framework should include: Narrow exemptions for government data collection. Oversight by an independent judicial body for non-consensual data collection.
- Risk-Based Regulation: India could adopt a risk-based framework like the EU, categorizing AI activities into unacceptable, high, and minimal risk based on their impact on privacy and civil liberties.
- Data Minimization and Storage Limits: Surveillance systems must operate on the principle of data minimization, collecting only essential data. Clear limits on data storage periods should prevent indefinite retention of sensitive information.
- Addressing Civil Liberties: Surveillance protocols should embed safeguards to protect citizens’ rights, including:
- Judicial oversight.
- Protection against algorithmic biases.
- Provisions to challenge misuse of AI systems.
Balancing Surveillance with Civil Liberties
- The Constitutional Mandate:
- Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) and the principle of proportionality demand that surveillance practices align with citizens’ constitutional rights.
- Pre-deployment measures, such as transparency and judicial review, can safeguard privacy.
- Proactive Policy-Making:
- Waiting for public outcry to address concerns can result in costly retrofits and loss of trust.
- A proactive approach to policy-making ensures that privacy protections are integrated into surveillance systems from the outset.
- Independent Regulatory Body:
- Establishing an independent regulatory authority to monitor and audit AI systems used in surveillance can ensure accountability and prevent misuse.
Conclusion
AI-powered surveillance in India holds immense potential for enhancing public safety and governance. However, its unchecked expansion raises concerns about privacy, transparency, and accountability. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, while a step in the right direction, falls short of addressing these challenges due to its broad exemptions and lack of proportional safeguards. Drawing lessons from global practices like the EU AI Act, India must implement a comprehensive regulatory framework that balances innovation with the protection of civil liberties. Without robust safeguards, the risk of AI-driven surveillance undermining constitutional rights remains high.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only |
Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? (2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only Ans: (b)
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| Answer 4- A
Explanation
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Kisan Kavach: Bharat’s Indigenous Anti Pesticide Suit to Safeguard Farmers’ Health
Source: Pib
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2085449
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Kisan Kavach
Why in News
The Kisan Kavach, India’s first anti-pesticide bodysuit, was launched to protect farmers from harmful pesticide exposure.
Overview
- The Kisan Kavach is India’s first anti-pesticide bodysuit designed to protect farmers from the harmful effects of pesticide exposure, which has been a major health risk in the agricultural sector.
- Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, unveiled this groundbreaking innovation as a step toward safeguarding farmers’ health, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of integrating science and technology to empower agriculture.
Key Features of Kisan Kavach:
- Protective Functionality: The bodysuit is specifically designed to protect farmers from pesticide-induced toxicity. Pesticides, when used in farming, can cause severe health complications such as breathing disorders, vision loss, and, in extreme cases, death. The Kisan Kavach helps to deactivate these harmful chemicals, preventing exposure and health risks.
- Design and Technology: Developed by BRIC-inStem in Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd., the bodysuit employs advanced fabric technology that neutralizes harmful pesticides upon contact. The suit is washable, reusable, and priced at ₹4,000, with a lifespan of up to one year. The fabric undergoes a chemical process that attaches a nucleophile to cotton fibers, enabling it to deactivate pesticides through nucleophilic-mediated hydrolysis, ensuring farmer safety.
- Societal Impact: This initiative addresses a critical gap in farmer safety, considering that 65% of India’s population is involved in agriculture. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that Kisan Kavach represents not just a product but a promise to protect the health of farmers who contribute to feeding the nation. This also reflects the government’s long-standing focus on integrating science and technology for the betterment of the agricultural community.
- Contribution to Bioeconomy and Sustainable Development: The Indian government’s focus on advancing biotechnology has led to a significant surge in biotech startups. With more than 8,500 biotech startups in India, the country is on track to achieve a $300 billion bioeconomy. Projects like Kisan Kavach contribute to this vision by advancing sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.
- Government’s Support and Future Plans: The project was launched with the support of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and BRIC-inStem. As production scales up, Dr. Jitendra Singh assured that the suit’s affordability would increase, allowing more farmers to access this crucial protective gear.
Scientific and Manufacturing Process:
- The process behind the Kisan Kavach involves a covalent attachment of a nucleophile to cotton fabric. This innovation allows the fabric to deactivate pesticides upon contact, thus preventing toxicity. The process and the technology have been detailed in the Nature Communications journal.
Conclusion:
- Kisan Kavach is a transformative innovation that highlights India’s growing capacity to develop technologies that address critical societal challenges. This initiative not only protects farmers but also strengthens India’s agricultural sector by promoting safer farming practices. The government’s commitment to leveraging science for societal good is evident in this initiative, which could serve as a model for other countries facing similar agricultural challenges.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5. The Kisan Kavach, an anti-pesticide bodysuit launched for the safety of farmers, has been developed by which of the following organizations?
1. BRIC-inStem and Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. 2. Department of Biotechnology and Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. 3. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and BRIC-inStem 4. Ministry of Science and Technology and Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 4 only D. 4 only |
Q. Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes? (2020)
1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets 2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks 3. Consumption requirements of farm households 4. Post-harvest expenses 5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 5 only Ans: (b)
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| Answer 5- A
Explanation The Kisan Kavach is an innovative anti-pesticide bodysuit designed to protect farmers from harmful pesticide exposure. It was developed by BRIC-inStem (Bangalore Research Institute for Innovations in Stem Cell Medicine) in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd.
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