UPSC CARE 25th June 2025 Current Affairs

Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (25-06-2025)

News at a Glance

International Relations: Iran-Israel Conflict and the Rising Nuclear Threat

India–South Africa Defence Cooperation

Economy: Governance Reforms for Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs)

India Rises to 99th Rank in the 2025 SDG Index

Science and Technology: Critical and Emerging Technologies Index

CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Iran-Israel Conflict and the Rising Nuclear Threat

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/nuclear-spectre-on-the-risk-of-an-era-of-nuclear-brinkmanship/article69732902.ece

UPSC Relevance: GS 2 International Relations

Context: Iran and Israel ceasefire

Why in News

Iran and Israel declared a ceasefire after a 12-day conflict involving missile strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, raising global concerns over nuclear non-proliferation and international law violations.

Introduction

• Israel and Iran announced a ceasefire after 12 days of intense hostilities involving missile strikes and aerial assaults.
• This conflict, triggered by Israel’s alleged “pre-emptive” strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, rapidly escalated into a regional war involving U.S. military intervention.
• The episode raises critical concerns regarding the violation of international norms, the erosion of nuclear non-proliferation frameworks, and the growing threat of nuclear brinkmanship in the 21st century.

Genesis of the Conflict

• Trigger Event: Israel initiated airstrikes under the pretext of pre-empting Iran’s nuclear development.
• Escalation: The strikes expanded into a full-fledged regional war, with the U.S. joining in by targeting Iranian nuclear installations.
• Outcome: The ceasefire announcement came after significant damage to Iranian nuclear infrastructure, especially uranium enrichment facilities.

Legal and Ethical Dimensions

Iran’s Status:

• Iran is a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
• It had agreed to international inspections and adhered to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed with the P5+1 to ensure peaceful nuclear use.

Israel’s Position:

• Not a signatory to the NPT.
• Possesses a known but undeclared nuclear arsenal, without any international oversight.
• The unilateral strikes by Israel (and the U.S.) on a sovereign state complying with international law raises serious questions about the credibility of global nuclear governance.

Strategic and Security Implications

1. Destabilisation of the Non-Proliferation Regime

• Iran, feeling betrayed and insecure, is now considering exiting the NPT—its parliament is debating a bill to this effect.
• This could set a dangerous precedent for other nations to withdraw from international treaties and pursue nuclear deterrence unilaterally.

2. Nuclear Deterrence Misused

• The traditional idea of nuclear deterrence is being misappropriated:
• Israel’s aggressive use of conventional and nuclear-linked military power suggests it may view nuclear capability as an offensive tool, not just a defensive one.
• The U.S. protection emboldens Israel to act with impunity in Gaza and broader West Asia.
• Russia’s nuclear threats in the Ukraine conflict further underline a pattern of great powers normalising nuclear rhetoric and threats to achieve political goals.

3. Global Instability

• These developments reflect a breakdown in global nuclear order, once anchored on mutual deterrence, treaties like the NPT, and norms of restraint.
• The world risks a new Cold War-like scenario, or worse, a multi-front nuclear standoff involving:
  • Iran and Israel in West Asia,
  • Russia and NATO in Europe,
  • China-U.S. tensions in the Indo-Pacific,
  • Indo-Pakistan nuclear risks in South Asia.

Disarmament Under Threat

The ideal of global nuclear disarmament, espoused through treaties like the NPT and initiatives like the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), is rapidly eroding:

• Nuclear-armed states are modernising and expanding their arsenals.
• The gap between nuclear haves and have-nots is widening.
• Emerging regional powers may now view nuclear acquisition as necessary for regime survival and deterrence.

The Path Ahead: A Renewed Diplomatic Imperative

To arrest this dangerous slide, the global community must act urgently and decisively:

1. Reinforce Multilateral Frameworks

• Revive the JCPOA and ensure that Iran’s peaceful nuclear program is safeguarded through mutual guarantees.
• Strengthen the NPT, ensuring all members adhere to both disarmament and non-proliferation commitments.

2. Hold Violators Accountable

• Pressure non-signatories like Israel to join the NPT and allow international inspections.
• Discourage unilateral military action, especially against compliant states.3. Foster Disarmament and Transparency
• Initiate confidence-building measures and regional nuclear-free zone proposals, especially in volatile regions like West Asia.
• Promote dialogue between nuclear and non-nuclear states under the auspices of the UN or IAEA.

4. Global Leadership for Stability

• The UN Security Council and G20 must lead a global conversation on nuclear risks.
• Promote diplomatic, not military, solutions to regional conflicts.

Conclusion

• The Iran-Israel conflict is a wake-up call for the international community. It reflects how easily the world can spiral into nuclear brinkmanship when treaties are weakened, diplomacy is sidelined, and great powers act with impunity.
• If unchecked, this could usher in a more volatile and fragmented global order than even the Cold War.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q1. With reference to the recent Iran-Israel conflict and its global implications, consider the following statements: Iran is a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and had agreed to international scrutiny of its nuclear facilities. Israel has signed and ratified the NPT and allows regular IAEA inspections of its nuclear arsenal. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was an agreement between Iran and the P5+1 countries to ensure peaceful use of nuclear energy by Iran. The conflict triggered Iran’s formal withdrawal from the NPT, making it the first country to do so in the 21st century. Which of the above statements are correct? A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 and 4 only C. 1, 2 and 3 only D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Q. In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA safeguards” while others are not? (2020) a) Some use uranium and others use thorium b) Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies c) Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises d) Some are State-owned and others are privately-owned Ans: b

Answer 1- A Explanation Statement 1 is Correct – Iran is a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and had subjected its nuclear facilities to international monitoring and inspections, especially after signing the JCPOA with the P5+1 countries in 2015. Statement 2 is Incorrect – Israel has not signed the NPT and does not permit International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections of its nuclear facilities. It maintains an undeclared nuclear arsenal, making its nuclear policy opaque and outside global non-proliferation norms. Statement 3 is Correct – The JCPOA was signed in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1 (U.S., U.K., France, Russia, China + Germany) to ensure Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful, in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. Statement 4 is Incorrect – As of June 2025, Iran has not formally withdrawn from the NPT. Its parliament is debating a proposal to exit the treaty, but no official withdrawal has taken place yet. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

India–South Africa Defence Cooperation

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-south-africa-sign-pacts-on-submarine-cooperation-10086568/

UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations

Context: India South Africa relations

Why in News

India and South Africa signed two agreements on submarine cooperation during the 9th Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting in Johannesburg to boost bilateral defence ties.

Introduction

• India and South Africa signed two significant agreements related to submarine cooperation during the 9th Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, on June 24–25, 2025.
• The meeting marks a key milestone in the ongoing efforts to deepen strategic and defence ties between the two countries.

Key Highlights

1. Submarine Cooperation Agreements

• Two new agreements were signed in the domain of submarine cooperation.
• These agreements are expected to enhance mutual capabilities in undersea warfare technology, including training, logistics support, technical collaboration, and potential joint ventures in submarine construction and maintenance.

2. Delegation and Leadership

• India’s delegation was led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, while the South African side was headed by Dr Thobekile Gamede, the Acting Secretary for Defence.
• The meeting reflects India’s growing emphasis on defence diplomacy and South-South cooperation.

3. Agenda and Discussions

• The JDC was guided by two co-chairs and comprised two sub-committees:
  • Sub-Committee on Defence Policy and Military Cooperation
  • Sub-Committee on Defence Acquisition, Production, Research and Development
• These sub-committees reviewed current engagements and presented their reports to the main JDC panel.

Strategic Significance

A. India’s Defence Diplomacy

• India highlighted its growing defence manufacturing and export capabilities, especially under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• The submarine cooperation is a testament to India’s emergence as a credible defence partner in the Global South.

B. India–South Africa Defence Relations

• The Defence Secretary reaffirmed the historic bonds between India and South Africa, recalling their shared colonial legacies, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) association, and BRICS membership.
• The meeting expressed satisfaction over the progress in bilateral defence cooperation in recent years.

C. Indian Ocean Security Architecture

• Both countries are key players in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and are committed to a rules-based maritime order.
• Submarine cooperation is part of a broader strategy to ensure maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare capability, and blue economy security.

Way Forward

• Operationalisation of the submarine agreements through:
  • Joint training and simulation exercises
  • Technical exchanges and visits
  • Maintenance and dockyard collaboration
• Enhanced participation in multilateral forums like IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) and IBSA (India–Brazil–South Africa)
• Further discussions on joint R&D in naval systems, cyber defence, and peacekeeping cooperation in Africa

Conclusion

• The signing of the submarine cooperation agreements aligns with India’s broader diplomatic thrust towards engaging with African nations and enhancing its profile as a reliable security partner in the Indo-African maritime landscape.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q2. Consider the following statements regarding India–South Africa defence cooperation: 1. India and South Africa signed two agreements related to submarine cooperation during the 9th Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting held in Cape Town. 2. The agreements are expected to enhance cooperation in undersea warfare technology, training, logistics, and joint ventures in submarine construction. 3. Both countries are members of IORA and BRICS and share a commitment to a rules-based maritime order in the Indian Ocean Region. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3

Q. Very recently, in which of the following countries have lakhs of people either suffered from severe famine/acute malnutrition or died due to starvation caused by war/ethnic conflicts? (2018) (a) Angola and Zambia (b) Morocco and Tunisia (c) Venezuela and Colombia (d) Yemen and South Sudan Ans: (d)

Answer 2- B Explanation Statement 1 – Incorrect: The 9th Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting was held in Johannesburg, not Cape Town. Statement 2 – Correct: The submarine agreements include cooperation in undersea warfare technology, training, logistics support, and joint ventures in submarine construction and maintenance. Statement 3 – Correct: Both countries are part of: BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) They support a rules-based maritime order, reflecting shared interests in: Maritime domain awareness Anti-submarine warfare Blue economy security

 

Governance Reforms for Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs)

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/business/sebi-proposes-revamp-of-miis-to-boost-governance/article69732508.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Capital Market

Context: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

Why in News

SEBI released a consultation paper on June 24, 2025, proposing key governance reforms for Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) such as stock exchanges and clearing corporations.

Introduction

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) released a consultation paper proposing a series of measures to reform the governance structure of Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs).
• These reforms are aimed at ensuring stronger oversight, accountability, and stability within these critical financial entities.

Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs)

• Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) are essential components of the capital markets ecosystem.
• They include stock exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories.
• These institutions ensure the smooth functioning of trading, clearing, settlement, and record-keeping in the securities market.
• Given their systemic importance, any governance failure in MIIs can have far-reaching consequences on investor confidence and the broader economy.
• SEBI’s proposals come in response to the expanding scope and complexity of the securities market, as well as concerns about possible governance lapses within MIIs.

Key Proposals in the SEBI Consultation Paper

1. Creation of Executive Director Positions

• SEBI has proposed the mandatory appointment of at least two Executive Directors (EDs) in each MII.
• These EDs will report to the Managing Director (MD) and will be responsible for overseeing specific functional areas within the MII.

2. Three-Vertical Governance Structure

SEBI formalized a framework that divides the responsibilities of MIIs into three verticals:

• Critical Operations: This includes core activities essential for the functioning of the market, such as trade execution and settlement operations.
• Regulatory, Compliance, Risk Management, and Investor Grievances: This vertical ensures adherence to laws, regulatory norms, risk mitigation frameworks, and resolution of investor complaints.
• Commercial Interests and Business Development: This includes strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the institution’s operations and financial performance.

SEBI has proposed that the two Executive Directors must lead the first two verticals—Critical Operations and Regulatory/Compliance. The appointment of an Executive Director for the third vertical is left to the discretion of the MII.

3. Board Representation and Status of Executive Directors

• Currently, only Managing Directors are allowed to be part of the Governing Board of MIIs.
• SEBI now proposes that the Executive Directors of the first two verticals should also be included on the Board. These EDs will hold a status comparable to that of the MD.

Their appointment and reappointment will follow the same regulatory procedures as that of the MD and will require SEBI’s approval.

4. Reporting Obligations

• The Executive Directors will be required to submit quarterly reports to both the Governing Board of the MII and to SEBI.
• These reports must address matters related to their respective verticals, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability.

5. Rules on External Directorships

SEBI has introduced new norms regarding external directorships:

• Managing Directors may hold non-executive directorships in unlisted government-owned companies (either central or state) or in not-for-profit organizations.
• Executive Directors, however, will not be allowed to hold directorships in any external entities, except for subsidiaries of the MII.

6. Public Consultation

• The proposals outlined in the consultation paper are open for public comments and suggestions until July 15, 2025.

Significance of the Proposals

These proposed reforms are significant for several reasons:

• Improved Accountability: Including Executive Directors in the board structure ensures that the leaders of critical and compliance functions are directly accountable to the highest decision-making body of the MII.
• Enhanced Regulatory Oversight: Quarterly reporting to SEBI will improve surveillance over the functioning of MIIs and enable early detection of irregularities.
• Risk Management: A dedicated vertical for risk and compliance headed by an ED ensures better institutional focus on market integrity and investor protection.
• Balanced Governance: The reforms aim to balance commercial objectives with regulatory responsibilities, thereby reducing potential conflicts of interest.
• Clarity in Leadership Structure: Clearly defined verticals and leadership roles promote professionalism and clarity in management responsibilities.

Broader Regulatory Context

These reforms are consistent with SEBI’s broader efforts to modernize and strengthen India’s financial regulatory architecture. Previous initiatives include:

• Enhanced disclosure norms for listed companies,
• Cybersecurity and technology governance frameworks for MIIs,
• Stricter compliance mandates for mutual funds and alternative investment funds.

The current proposals further align SEBI’s governance framework with international best practices in financial market infrastructure regulation.

Conclusion

• The proposed governance reforms by SEBI aim to create a more robust, accountable, and transparent framework for Market Infrastructure Institutions.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q3. With reference to Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs), consider the following statements: SEBI has mandated the appointment of two Executive Directors (EDs) in each MII to lead the verticals of Critical Operations and Regulatory Compliance. Both MDs and EDs are now permitted to hold non-executive directorships in any listed or unlisted private companies. Executive Directors are to be included in the Governing Board and are required to report to SEBI and the Board quarterly. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3

Q. Which of the following is issued by registered foreign portfolio investors to overseas investors who want to be part of the Indian stock market without registering themselves directly? (2019) (a) Certificate of Deposit (b) Commercial Paper (c) Promissory Note (d) Participatory Note Ans: (d)

Answer 3- C Explanation Statement 1 is Correct – SEBI proposed two Executive Directors (EDs) in each MII to head the verticals of ‘Critical Operations’ and ‘Regulatory, Compliance, Risk Management and Investor Grievances’. Statement 2 is Incorrect – Only MDs can hold non-executive directorships in unlisted government or non-profit companies. EDs are not permitted to hold directorships in any company other than MII subsidiaries. Statement 3 is Correct – SEBI proposed that EDs should be included in the Governing Board and must report quarterly to both SEBI and the Board. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

 

India Rises to 99th Rank in the 2025 SDG Index

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-enters-top-100-in-global-sustainable-development-goals-rankings-for-first-time/article69730436.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Economy

Context: 2025 SDG Index

Why in News?

India ranked 99th out of 167 countries in the 2025 SDG Index, marking its first entry into the top 100.

Introduction

• India has, for the first time, entered the top 100 countries in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index.
• India secured the 99th rank out of 167 nations in the 2025 edition of the Sustainable Development Report (SDR) released by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UNSDSN).
• With a score of 67, this marks a substantial improvement from its 109th rank in 2024, reflecting consistent progress in multiple development indicators.

About the SDG Index

• The SDG Index measures the overall progress of countries towards achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by UN member states in 2015.
• It uses a scale where 100 denotes complete achievement of all goals.
• The report is authored by a team led by economist Jeffrey Sachs and serves as a key global benchmark for sustainable development.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) are 17 global goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• The SDGs aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.

India’s Performance: Steady Climb in Rankings

Year	SDG Index Rank
2021	120
2022	121
2023	112
2024	109
2025	99

• India has shown consistent improvement year-on-year since 2021.
• This reflects enhanced performance in key SDG domains such as access to electricity (SDG 7), mobile broadband (SDG 9), and reduction in under-five and neonatal mortality (SDG 3).

Comparison with Global and Regional Peers

• Top Performers: Finland, Sweden, and Denmark dominate the index. 19 of the top 20 countries are from Europe.
• India’s Neighbours:
  • Bhutan – 74th (70.5)
  • Nepal – 85th (68.6)
  • Bangladesh – 114th (63.9)
  • Pakistan – 140th (57)
  • Sri Lanka – 93rd
  • Maldives – 53rd
• China ranks 49th (74.4), USA ranks 44th (75.2) but is last in commitment to the SDGs (193rd).

Global Trends: Stalling Progress and Emerging Challenges

Despite regional gains, the report warns that global progress has largely stalled:

• Only 17% of SDG targets are on track to be achieved by 2030.
• Key challenges include:
  • Conflicts and wars
  • Structural vulnerabilities
  • Limited fiscal space in developing countries

Areas of Global Regression:

• Obesity rates (SDG 2)
• Decline in press freedom (SDG 16)
• Biodiversity loss (Red List Index – SDG 15)
• Sustainable nitrogen management (SDG 2)
• Rising corruption (SDG 16)

Regional and Country-Level Highlights

• Fastest Improving Countries (since 2015):
  • Nepal (+11.1)
  • Cambodia (+10)
  • Bangladesh (+8.3)
  • Mongolia (+7.7)
  • Philippines (+8.6)
  • Benin (+14.5), UAE (+9.9), Uzbekistan (+12.1), Peru (+8.7), Costa Rica (+7)
• Infrastructure and Services: Noticeable gains in mobile broadband, internet usage, electricity access, and health indicators.

India’s Achievements and Challenges

Achievements:

• Continued progress in:
  • Health (SDG 3) – Reduction in neonatal and under-five mortality
  • Energy (SDG 7) – Expansion of electricity access
  • Digital access (SDG 9) – Mobile and internet penetration

Challenges Ahead:

• Managing sustainable nitrogen usage in agriculture
• Addressing environmental degradation and biodiversity loss
• Tackling rising inequality and corruption (SDG 10, 16)

Global Call for Financial Reform

The report sets the stage for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) to be held in Seville, Spain (June 30 – July 3, 2025):

• Emphasizes urgent reform of the global financial architecture (GFA)
• Highlights disparity in capital flows, which favor developed countries over Emerging and Developing Economies (EMDEs)
• Urges that GFA reform be placed at the top of the FfD4 agenda

Conclusion

• India’s entry into the top 100 of the SDG Index in 2025 is a significant milestone that reflects its persistent efforts toward sustainable development.
• However, the global slowdown in SDG progress and emerging challenges call for strengthened domestic policies and greater international cooperation, especially in the run-up to key global platforms like the FfD4.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q4. With reference to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index 2025, consider the following statements: The index is published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). India ranked within the top 100 countries for the first time in 2025. A perfect score of 100 indicates the complete achievement of all 17 SDGs. The United States ranked first in overall SDG performance but last in commitment to the SDGs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 4 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 2, 3, and 4 only D. 1, 2, and 3 only

Q.   Sustainable development is described as the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this perspective, inherently the concept of sustainable development is intertwined with which of the following concepts? (2010) (a) Social justice and empowerment (b) Inclusive Growth (c) Globalization (d) Carrying capacity Ans: (d)

Answer – 4 – B Explanation : Statement 1 is Incorrect – The Sustainable Development Goals Index is published by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), led by economist Jeffrey Sachs. It is not released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Statement 2 is Correct – In the 2025 edition of the SDG Index, India ranked 99th, marking its first appearance in the top 100, a significant improvement from its 109th position in 2024. Statement 3 is Correct – A score of 100 on the SDG Index indicates full achievement of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015. Statement 4 is Incorrect – While the United States ranked 44th in overall SDG performance, it was ranked last (193rd) in commitment to the SDGs, due to its policy stance opposing multilateral SDG efforts. It did not rank first in performance. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Critical and Emerging Technologies Index

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/data/india-trails-in-critical-tech-particularly-semiconductor-tech/article69732240.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Science and Technology

Context: Critical and Emerging Technologies Index

Why in News?

India ranks below global leaders like the U.S., China, and Europe in Critical and Emerging Technologies Index.

Introduction

A new Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) Index has been introduced to assess the relative performance of 25 countries across five strategically significant technology sectors. These sectors represent the frontiers of innovation, security, and economic development in the 21st century:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
2. Biotechnology
3. Semiconductors
4. Space Technology
5. Quantum Technologies

The index is based on public and commercial datasets, offering a transparent and comparative lens through which policymakers can evaluate each nation’s technological strengths, weaknesses, and readiness.

Sectoral Weights and Strategic Criteria

Recognising the varying strategic value of each sector, the index assigns them different weights:

Sector	Weight (%)
Semiconductors	35%
Artificial Intelligence	25%
Biotechnology	20%
Space Technology	15%
Quantum Technologies	5%

These weights are derived from six strategic and operational criteria:

• Geopolitical relevance
• Dual-use potential (civilian and military)
• Global economic impact
• Innovation spillover effects
• Supply chain complexity
• National security implications

Overall Ranking: India’s Global Position

• The United States emerges as the top performer, with leadership in all five sectors. This dominance is attributed to a vibrant R&D ecosystem, substantial public-private partnerships, and a diverse scientific workforce.
• China ranks second, with particular strength in biotechnology and quantum, but lags behind in semiconductors and certain areas of AI due to dependence on foreign technologies and tools.
• Europe occupies the third position, performing well in biotechnology and quantum, but showing relative weakness in semiconductors and space.
• India is positioned below France but above Russia, Canada, and Australia, with an overall score of 15.2. While it demonstrates some strengths, it lags considerably behind the top three technology powers.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Weight: 25%

• Pillars Assessed (8 total):
  • Core: Funding, Talent
  • Technical: Algorithms, Computing Infrastructure, Data
  • Supporting: Regulation, Global Influence
• Top Performers:
  • United States (large lead), followed by China and Europe
• India’s Position:
  India lags behind due to inadequate high-level research, brain drain of AI talent, and limited funding. It needs to expand AI research centres and public-private innovation labs to close the gap.

Biotechnology – Weight: 20%

• Pillars Assessed (9 total):
  • Key: Human Capital, Funding, Core Capabilities (pharma manufacturing, genetic engineering, vaccine R&D)
• Top Performers:
  • U.S. and China dominate due to robust ecosystems and investments
  • Europe maintains strength in legacy biotech sectors
• India’s Position:
  India shows moderate strength, particularly in vaccine production (e.g., Covaxin, Covishield), but lacks depth in cutting-edge biotech research and bioscience infrastructure.

Semiconductors – Weight: 35% (Highest)

• Pillars Assessed (8 total):
  • Critical: Chip Design, Funding, Talent, Manufacturing
  • Supporting: Equipment, Raw Materials, Policy
• Top Performers:
  • U.S., Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea
  • Europe ranks lower due to underdeveloped fabrication capacities
• India’s Position: Performance is poor. India is dependent on imports for chip manufacturing and tools. Despite the launch of the Semicon India Programme, progress remains slow.

Space Technology – Weight: 15%

• Pillars Assessed (10 total):
  • Highest: Funding, Talent, Defence Space Capabilities
  • Others: Launch Infrastructure, Navigation Systems, Regulation, Global Reach
• Top Performers:
  • U.S. leads, with Russia in third position
• India’s Position: Ranked 7th, India benefits from ISRO’s cost-effective missions but suffers due to limited private participation, low investment, and underutilised global partnerships.

Quantum Technologies – Weight: 5% (Lowest)

• Pillars Assessed (8 total):
  • Key: Funding, Talent, Core Tech (e.g., quantum computing, communication)
  • Supporting: Policy, Security, Collaboration
• Top Performers:
  • U.S., China, and Europe with major public investments and strategic missions
• India’s Position:
  An emerging player. India has recently launched the National Quantum Mission, but research output and innovation capabilities remain nascent.

Strategic Insights

• United States:
  • Global leader across all sectors, backed by its university system, venture capital, and technology alliances (e.g., with Japan, South Korea, and Europe)
• China:
  • Strong in biotech and quantum, with advantages in scale and centralised planning, but innovation bottlenecks due to restricted private sector autonomy
• Europe:
  • High performance in biotech and quantum, but struggles in semiconductors and large-scale space ventures
• India:
  • Has immense human capital potential, but is hindered by:
    • Funding constraints
    • Weak industry-academia links
    • Policy implementation lags
    • Low influence in global tech rule-making

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q5. With reference to the recently launched Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) Index, consider the following statements: The index assigns the highest weight to Artificial Intelligence due to its dual-use potential and data dominance. India ranks above Russia and Canada but below France in the overall index. Semiconductors receive the highest weight among all five sectors in the index. The index was developed solely using classified government data from the top five countries. Which of the above statements are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1, 2 and 3 only D. 2, 3 and 4 only

Q. What are the possible limitations of India in mitigating global warming at present and in the immediate future? (2010) Appropriate alternate technologies are not sufficiently available. India cannot invest huge funds in research and development. Many developed countries have already set up their polluting industries in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (a)

Answer – 5 – B Explanation : Statement 1 is Incorrect – The Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) Index assigns the highest weight to semiconductors (35%), not Artificial Intelligence. AI receives the second-highest weight (25%), based on factors like talent, algorithms, data, and influence. Therefore, while important, it is not the top-weighted sector. Statement 2 is Correct – As per the Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) index rankings, India scores 15.2, which places it below France but above Russia, Canada, and Australia, highlighting India’s middle-tier position in critical technology capabilities. Statement 3 is Correct – Among the five sectors assessed, semiconductors are given the highest weight (35%) in Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) Index , reflecting their strategic importance due to complex global supply chains and national security implications. Statement 4 is Incorrect – The Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) index is developed using a combination of public and commercial data sources, not classified government data. This ensures transparency and cross-country comparability. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

CART-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/car-t-cell-therapy-and-its-promise-of-new-hope-for-cancer-treatment/article69720976.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology

Context: CART-Cell Therapy

Why in News

CAR T-cell therapy is a personalised cancer immunotherapy that reprograms a patient’s T-cells to target and destroy cancer cells, especially effective in certain blood cancers.

Introduction

• In recent years, cancer treatment has seen groundbreaking advances, with CAR T-cell therapy emerging as a major milestone.
• Unlike traditional therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation, CAR T-cell therapy harnesses the body’s own immune system to combat cancer.
• This personalised approach holds immense promise, particularly for patients with few remaining options.

What is CAR T-Cell Therapy?

CAR T-cell therapy is a form of immunotherapy.

• It involves genetically modifying a patient’s own T-cells—a type of white blood cell central to the immune response—to better recognize and destroy cancer cells.

Steps Involved:

1. Leukapheresis: T-cells are extracted from the patient’s blood.
2. Genetic Modification: In a laboratory, these T-cells are re-engineered to produce special proteins called Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs) on their surface. These CARs enable the T-cells to identify and attach to specific proteins (antigens) on cancer cells.
3. Expansion: The modified cells are multiplied in the lab.
4. Infusion: These engineered CAR T-cells are then infused back into the patient’s bloodstream via IV.
5. Action: Once inside the body, the CAR T-cells seek out and destroy cancer cells.

Clinical Applications

• CAR T-cell therapy is currently approved for use in haematological (blood-related) cancers, especially for patients who are relapsed (cancer returns after treatment) or refractory (cancer does not respond to standard therapies).

Approved Indications:

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
• Multiple Myeloma

These are cancers of the blood, lymphatic system, or bone marrow where conventional therapies may fail in advanced stages.

Benefits of CAR T-Cell Therapy

1. High Efficacy: Many patients achieve complete remission, meaning their cancer symptoms disappear after therapy.
2. Personalised Medicine: Since the treatment uses the patient’s own cells, it is tailored and highly specific.
3. Durable Response: Some patients remain cancer-free for years after a single infusion.
4. Hope for the Refractory Cases: It has shown success where other treatments have failed.

Side Effects and Challenges

Despite its promise, CAR T-cell therapy is not without risks.

Common Side Effects:

• Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): A systemic immune reaction causing high fever, low blood pressure, and respiratory distress.
• ICANS (Immune effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome): Neurological effects such as confusion, seizures, or speech difficulty.

Most side effects are manageable with timely medical intervention.

Other Challenges:

• High Cost: Commercial CAR-T products in the West cost over ₹3-4 crore per patient, making them unaffordable for most.
• Limited Access: Advanced infrastructure and specialised teams are needed, limiting availability in low-resource settings.
• Lack of Standardisation: Need for robust regulatory and manufacturing protocols in India.

CAR T-Cell Therapy in India: Recent Developments

Indigenous Efforts:

India has made significant strides in developing affordable CAR T-cell therapy.

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) funded trials led by Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, demonstrated that CAR-T therapy can be safely manufactured in hospitals using indigenous technology.
• IIT Bombay collaborated with Tata Memorial Centre to develop India’s first cost-effective CAR-T platform (named ‘InCART’).
• The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) supports indigenous biotech firms for the Make-in-India production of CAR-T products.

Implication for Public Health:

• Scalability and cost reduction through local manufacturing could make this treatment accessible to middle-income populations.
• Inclusion under Ayushman Bharat or other health insurance schemes may provide financial risk protection.

The Future Path: CAR-T for Solid Tumours

CAR T-cell therapy has so far worked best against liquid cancers. Scientists are now working to overcome the barriers that limit its success in solid tumours, such as:

• Tumour microenvironment resistance.
• Poor T-cell infiltration into solid tissues.
• Antigen heterogeneity in solid cancers like breast, lung, and pancreas.

Research Frontiers:

• Combining CAR-T with CRISPR (gene-editing) to enhance targeting.
• Use of dual CARs and safety switches to reduce side effects.
• Application in autoimmune diseases and infectious diseases in the future.

Conclusion:

• CAR T-cell therapy represents a paradigm shift in oncology. It turns the patient’s immune system into a precision weapon against cancer, offering hope to those who have exhausted conventional treatments.
• India’s efforts toward localising and democratising this therapy reflect a broader move toward technological sovereignty in healthcare.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q6. With reference to CAR T-cell therapy, consider the following statements: It involves the use of genetically modified B-cells to attack cancer cells. CAR in CAR T-cell therapy stands for Chimeric Antigen Receptor. It is currently approved mainly for solid tumours such as breast and lung cancer. India has developed indigenous CAR T-cell therapy platforms with government support. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 2 and 4 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2, 3, and 4 only D. 1, 2, and 4 only

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 environmental allergens. body (b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation. (c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body. (d) They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens. Ans: (d)

Answer – 6 – A Explanation : Statement 1 is Incorrect – CAR T-cell therapy uses T-cells, not B-cells. T-cells are a type of immune cell that play a central role in identifying and killing infected or cancerous cells. The therapy involves extracting T-cells from the patient, genetically modifying them, and reinfusing them to target cancer. Statement 2 is Correct – The acronym CAR stands for Chimeric Antigen Receptor. It refers to the engineered receptor added to the patient’s T-cells, which allows them to recognise specific proteins (antigens) on the surface of cancer cells. Statement 3 is Incorrect – CAR T-cell therapy is currently approved for certain blood cancers, such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. It is not yet approved for most solid tumours like breast or lung cancer, although research is ongoing. Statement 4 is Correct – India has indeed made progress in developing indigenous CAR T-cell platforms. Institutions like IIT Bombay, CMC Vellore, and support from ICMR and DBT have enabled hospital-based manufacturing trials, aiming to make this expensive therapy more accessible and affordable. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.