10 May 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related C. GS 3 Related ENVIRONMENT 1. SC stops granting of fresh mining leases, renewals in Aravalis SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 1. Could bird flu turn into the next pandemic? D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials SCIENCE 1. An AI-infused world needs matching cybersecurity HEALTH 1. We need to stop the fear mongering on vaccines F. Prelims Facts 1. U.K. girl’s hearing restored after groundbreaking gene therapy 2. China’s aircraft carrier Fujian completes 8-day sea trial 3. All about FLiRT, the new COVID-19 variants G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
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B. GS 2 Related
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C. GS 3 Related
Category: ENVIRONMENT
1. SC stops granting of fresh mining leases, renewals in Aravalis
Syllabus: Conservation, Environmental pollution and degradation
Mains: Steps taken to protect Aravalis
Context: The Aravalli Hills are an ecologically sensitive mountain range spanning several Indian states. The Supreme Court’s recent order addresses concerns about environmental degradation due to mining activities in the Aravallis.
Issues
- Illegal mining and unregulated mining practices have damaged the Aravalli ecosystem.
- Different states have varying definitions of the Aravalli range, hindering effective regulations.
Supreme Court Order
- The court has placed a ban on granting new mining leases or renewals in the Aravallis across Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat.
- Existing valid mining leases are not affected.
- States can process applications but require Supreme Court approval for final permission.
- A committee has been formed to establish a common definition of the Aravalli Hills.
Significance
- Protects the ecological integrity of the Aravallis, a vital ecological zone.
- Promotes sustainable mining practices and prevents environmental damage.
Solutions
- Effective implementation of the Supreme Court order by all concerned states.
- Development of a comprehensive mining policy that balances economic needs with environmental protection.
- Exploring alternative sources of minerals and promoting sustainable mining technologies.
Nut Graf: The Supreme Court’s order is a landmark decision for environmental protection. Strict enforcement and long-term solutions are crucial to ensure the sustainable development of the Aravalli region.
Category: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
1. Could bird flu turn into the next pandemic?
Syllabus: Developments in Science and Technology, Applications of scientific developments in everyday life
Mains: Causes of bird flu and steps taken to control it
Context: The emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) in multiple states across the globe, including India and the United States, raises concerns about its potential to evolve into a pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep concern over the increasing transmission of the H5N1 bird flu virus to various species, including humans.
Current Situation:
- Multiple states in India, including Kerala, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, have been directed to stay vigilant due to the emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
- The virus has spread to cattle in eight U.S. states, raising alarm globally.
- WHO warns about the risk of the virus evolving to infect humans and gaining the ability for human-to-human transmission.
Issues:
- The mortality rate among those infected through contact with animals remains high.
- The virus’s ability to affect multiple species, including cows and goats, poses challenges in containment and control efforts.
- Cows, a new host for the H5N1 virus, present unique challenges due to their large population and economic significance.
- Unlike birds, culling cattle isn’t a feasible option due to their economic value and resistance to infection.
Significance:
- The global spread of bird flu poses a significant threat to public health and the economy.
- The potential evolution of the virus to infect humans and enable human-to-human transmission could lead to a pandemic.
- India’s experience with annual outbreaks of HPAI underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures.
Solutions:
- Enhanced surveillance and early detection of avian influenza cases are crucial.
- Strict biosecurity measures in poultry and livestock farms to prevent transmission between animals and humans.
- Research into vaccines and antiviral medications to mitigate the spread and impact of bird flu.
- Collaboration between governments, international organizations, and scientific communities to develop coordinated strategies for prevention and response.
Nut Graf: Given the increasing transmission of bird flu to various species and the potential for human-to-human transmission, it’s imperative for governments and global health organizations to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing this threat. Robust surveillance, stringent biosecurity measures, and collaborative research efforts are essential to prevent bird flu from evolving into the next pandemic.
D. GS 4 Related
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E. Editorials
Category: SCIENCE
1. An AI-infused world needs matching cybersecurity
Syllabus: GS-3, Awareness in the fields of IT
Mains: Threat to cybersecurity in AI world
Introduction: The Impact of Generative AI on Cybersecurity
- The incident of a frantic mother receiving an ominous call from supposed kidnappers, actually hackers using generative AI, highlighted the erosion of human perception between reality and AI-generated content.
- Generative AI’s integration into various sectors has transformed cyber-risk paradigms, leading to a surge in cyber threats such as phishing and credential theft.
- With organizations and individuals increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks, collaborative efforts are necessary to safeguard confidential information and identities.
Emerging Cyber Threats from Generative AI:
- Cybersecurity professionals report a significant increase in cyberattacks attributed to generative AI, with phishing incidents and credential theft on the rise.
- Advanced threats include cognitive behavioural manipulation and exploitation of voice-activated devices, posing risks to privacy and security.
- Real-time biometric identification systems, like facial recognition, further endanger privacy rights and personal security.
Challenges and Responses in Cybersecurity:
- Despite generative AI’s productivity benefits, organizations face challenges such as undetectable phishing attacks, increased attack volumes, and privacy concerns.
- Identification of hacker groups utilizing generative AI underscores the need for robust cybersecurity initiatives.
- Efforts such as the Bletchley Declaration and policy-led approaches aim to combat cyber threats by enhancing AI-generated content identification and implementing realistic regulatory frameworks.
Fostering Digital Awareness and Collaboration:
- Corporate initiatives should prioritize digital awareness and literacy training to empower employees in navigating the digital landscape and verifying sources.
- Collaboration between governmental, institutional, and industrial stakeholders is crucial in drafting effective cybersecurity regulations.
- Non-governmental and outreach organizations play a vital role in promoting cyber literacy among individuals, contributing to a more resilient defense against evolving cyber threats in an AI-driven world.
Nut Graf: Generative AI’s integration into sectors has heightened cyber threats, with phishing and credential theft on the rise. Collaborative efforts and digital literacy initiatives are crucial to mitigate risks and safeguard personal interests in this evolving landscape.
Category: HEALTH
1. We need to stop the fear mongering on vaccines
Syllabus: GS-2, Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health
Mains: Vaccine hesitancy and misinformation
Context: Vaccine-Related Fear Mongering
- Background of TTS Disinformation: The emergence of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) following COVID-19 vaccination sparked fear and misinformation, especially on social media platforms.
- Politicization of Vaccination: The issue of vaccine hesitancy and scepticism has been exacerbated by political influences, leading to misconceptions about vaccine safety and efficacy.
- Misinterpretation of Astra Zeneca’s Court Submission: A court submission by Astra Zeneca regarding rare post-vaccination complications was misconstrued as new information, fueling misinformation about vaccine risks.
Evaluating Risk, Benefit, and Alternatives:
- Assessing Risk: TTS, though rare, poses a minimal risk compared to other common hazards such as road accidents. Understanding the statistical rarity of TTS is crucial in contextualizing vaccine risks.
- Weighing Benefits: Despite the rare occurrence of TTS, vaccines like Covishield have demonstrated significant effectiveness in reducing severe COVID-19 cases and deaths, far outweighing the associated risks.
- Consideration of Alternatives: Different countries made decisions regarding vaccine usage based on available alternatives, such as mRNA vaccines, which were deemed safer in some regions.
Insights into Vaccine-Induced TTS and Future Considerations:
- Understanding TTS Mechanisms: TTS appears to be linked to the immune response triggered by recombinant DNA vaccines, highlighting the need for further research to mitigate risks associated with vaccine-induced complications.
- Lack of Perfect Choices: The absence of a perfect vaccine underscores the necessity for ongoing research and development to enhance vaccine safety and efficacy.
- Data Limitations and Research Challenges: The lack of comprehensive data on vaccine side effects underscores the importance of improving data collection and analysis to inform vaccination strategies.
Addressing Concerns and Moving Forward:
- Mitigating Misinformation: Combatting vaccine misinformation is crucial to maintaining public trust in vaccination efforts and promoting widespread vaccine acceptance.
- Appreciating the Benefits of Vaccination: Vaccines remain indispensable tools in combating infectious diseases, and efforts should focus on celebrating successful vaccination campaigns rather than fostering fear and doubt.
- Encouraging Vaccine Research: Despite challenges, sustained investment in vaccine research and development is essential to addressing evolving public health threats and ensuring global health security.
Nut Graf: Amid widespread fear and misinformation surrounding vaccine safety, understanding the rare risks of complications like TTS is vital. By evaluating risks, benefits, and alternatives, informed decisions can guide effective vaccination strategies amid evolving public health challenges.
F. Prelims Facts
1. U.K. girl’s hearing restored after groundbreaking gene therapy
Context: Gene therapy offers new possibilities for treating previously untreatable medical conditions. This case study highlights a successful application in restoring hearing.
Case Study
- An 18-month-old British girl, born deaf due to a genetic mutation, regained hearing after undergoing a new gene therapy trial.
- This is believed to be the youngest person to have hearing restored through gene therapy.
Groundbreaking Gene Therapy
- The therapy introduces a healthy copy of the defective gene into the ear cells.
- This enables proper communication between the inner ear and the brain, restoring hearing function.
Significance
- Offers hope for millions of people suffering from deafness caused by genetic mutations.
- Paves the way for further advancements in gene therapy for other genetic disorders.
Concerns
- Gene therapy is a relatively new field with long-term effects yet to be fully understood.
- Ethical considerations exist regarding the potential unintended consequences of altering genes.
- Affordability and accessibility of such therapies might be challenges.
2. China’s aircraft carrier Fujian completes 8-day sea trial
Context: China’s maritime power projection takes a significant leap with the successful completion of the maiden sea trials of its third aircraft carrier, Fujian. This development underscores China’s rapid expansion of its naval capabilities and introduces advanced technology, such as electromagnetic catapults, positioning China as the second country after the U.S. to possess a supercarrier with this capability.
Maiden Sea Trials of Fujian:
- Fujian, an 80,000-tonne supercarrier, conducted an eight-day sea trial, testing propulsion, electrical systems, and other equipment.
- Successful completion of trials signals China’s advancements in naval technology and operational readiness.
- Follow-up tests are planned to ensure the carrier’s readiness for active deployment.
Strategic Implications:
- China’s expanding maritime presence poses a strategic challenge to countries in the region, including India.
- The development of advanced aircraft carriers enhances China’s power projection capabilities, potentially altering regional power dynamics.
- India and other neighbouring countries closely monitor China’s naval expansion and are prompted to strengthen their own maritime capabilities.
Comparison with Indian Navy’s Carriers:
- The Indian Navy currently operates two aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, with plans for a second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-II) underway.
- The Indian Navy’s efforts to enhance its carrier fleet are driven by the need to maintain strategic parity in the region.
Future Outlook:
- China’s announcement of building its fourth aircraft carrier, likely a nuclear-powered supercarrier, underscores its long-term naval ambitions.
- India’s pursuit of a second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier reflects its commitment to bolstering its maritime capabilities in response to regional dynamics.
- The development of advanced aircraft carriers by both countries highlights the intensifying naval competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
3. All about FLiRT, the new COVID-19 variants
Context: The emergence of new COVID-19 variants, KP.2 and KP1.1, collectively known as the FLiRT variants, has reignited concerns about the pandemic’s trajectory. These variants, descendants of the Omicron JN.1 strain, have been associated with a surge in cases and hospitalizations in several countries, prompting heightened vigilance and response measures.
Characteristics of FLiRT Variants:
- FLiRT variants, including KP.2 and KP1.1, are sublineages of the Omicron JN.1 variant, exhibiting two additional spike mutations.
- These variants are associated with increased transmissibility and potential immune evasion, posing challenges to existing vaccination and infection-derived immunity.
Epidemiological Impact:
- FLiRT variants have been linked to a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in various countries, including the U.S., U.K., South Korea, New Zealand, and India.
- India, in particular, has reported 238 cases of KP.2 and 30 cases of KP1.1, primarily in states like Maharashtra, Odisha, Goa, and West Bengal.
Immune Evasion and Vaccine Response:
- Research indicates that KP.2 exhibits increased immune resistance, surpassing immunity derived from both vaccination and previous infection with JN.1.
- Despite the immune evasive properties, vaccination with up-to-date vaccines remains crucial in preventing severe illness from FLiRT variants.
- Efforts are underway to update COVID-19 vaccines to target the new JN.1 variant, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vaccine development and administration.
Public Health Response:
- Surveillance and tracking of FLiRT variants are essential for understanding their prevalence and geographic spread.
- Continued adherence to public health measures, including hygiene practices, mask-wearing, and vaccination, remains crucial in mitigating transmission and containing outbreaks.
- Public awareness campaigns and targeted interventions are needed to communicate the evolving nature of the pandemic and reinforce preventive measures.
Challenges and Future Outlook:
- Limited testing and surveillance infrastructure pose challenges in accurately assessing the prevalence and impact of FLiRT variants.
- The dynamic nature of the virus necessitates adaptive responses from public health authorities and policymakers.
- International collaboration and data sharing are critical in monitoring and responding to emerging variants on a global scale.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. The Supreme Court of India recently imposed a ban on granting fresh mining leases and renewals in the Aravalli Hills. This decision aims to address concerns about:
- Depleting mineral resources in the region
- Increasing demand for minerals from these hills
- Environmental degradation caused by mining activities
- Land acquisition disputes between mining companies and local communities
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: Environmental degradation caused by mining activities.
Q2. Consider the following statements:
- Statement 1: The recent rise in H5N1 bird flu cases globally increases the risk of a human pandemic.
- Statement 2: The World Health Organization (WHO) is confident that existing flu vaccines can effectively protect humans from H5N1 infection.
Which of the following is/are correct?
- Only Statement 1
- Only Statement 2
- Both Statements 1 and 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. The H5N1 strain of bird flu is highly contagious among birds and can be deadly. While the virus rarely transmits directly between humans, its increased spread in birds raises concerns about potential mutations that could allow easier human-to-human transmission, triggering a pandemic.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. Existing flu vaccines target seasonal influenza strains and may not offer complete protection against H5N1. Specific vaccines for H5N1 are under development, but widespread availability might take time in a pandemic scenario.
Q3. A recent breakthrough in the UK involved the use of gene therapy to restore the hearing of a young girl born deaf. Gene therapy involves:
- Administering antibiotics to target mutated genes
- Introducing functional copies of genes to correct genetic defects
- Removing and replacing defective organs with healthy ones
- Stimulating the immune system to fight off genetic disorders
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Introducing functional copies of genes to correct genetic defects.
Q4. The FLiRT variants are a new group of COVID-19 variants raising concerns due to their increased spread.
- Statement 1: The FLiRT variants are a completely new strain of the virus unrelated to previous variants.
- Statement 2: Existing public health measures like masking and social distancing can help in controlling the spread of FLiRT variants.
Which of the following is/are correct?
- Only Statement 1
- Only Statement 2
- Both Statements 1 and 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect. FLiRT variants are not entirely new but rather a sub-lineage of the Omicron JN.1 variant. They possess mutations that make them more transmissible.
- Statement 2 is correct. Public health measures like wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and proper hand hygiene remain effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19, including variants like FLiRT. Vaccination also plays a crucial role in reducing disease severity.
Q5. Consider the following statements about China's aircraft carrier Fujian:
- Statement 1: The successful sea trial of China’s aircraft carrier Fujian indicates their growing naval ambitions in the region.
- Statement 2: The completion of sea trials automatically translates into the immediate deployment of the carrier with its full combat capability.
Which of the following is/are correct?
- Only Statement 1
- Only Statement 2
- Both Statements 1 and 2
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. The successful sea trial of the Fujian, a large and advanced aircraft carrier, demonstrates China’s progress in naval technology and potentially signifies its expanding naval role in the region.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. Sea trials primarily focus on testing the carrier’s core systems like propulsion and electronics. Further integration of combat aircraft, crew training, and operational exercises are required before deployment.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? (Essay Question)
- Politics without ethics is a disaster. (Essay Question)
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