Archives
(PRELIMS Focus)
Subject: Art & Culture (Traditional Paintings, GI Tags, Handicrafts of India, Textile Arts)
Why in News?
During his visits to France, Slovakia, and other countries on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, the Prime Minister gifted Kalamkari artworks to world leaders, showcasing India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage on the global stage.
What is Kalamkari?
- Kalamkari is a traditional hand-painted or block-printed textile art.
- The term is derived from:
- ‘Kalam’ – Pen
- ‘Kari’ – Craftsmanship/Work
- Literally means “art done with a pen.”
- It involves drawing intricate designs on fabric using natural dyes.
Origin and Historical Background
- Flourished under the Vijayanagara Empire and later under the Golconda Sultanate.
- Traditionally used for depicting stories from:
- Ramayana
- Mahabharata
- Bhagavata Purana
- Other Hindu mythological narratives
- Temple hangings, scrolls, and decorative textiles were common products.
Major Styles of Kalamkari
Srikalahasti Style
- Originated in Srikalahasti.
- Entirely hand-drawn using a bamboo or date-palm pen.
- Features mythological and religious themes.
- Known for detailed freehand artwork.
Machilipatnam Style
- Originated in Machilipatnam.
- Uses hand-carved wooden blocks for printing.
- Influenced by Persian and Mughal motifs.
- Includes floral, geometric, and decorative patterns.
Technique of Kalamkari
The process is lengthy and eco-friendly, involving:
- Treatment of cotton fabric.
- Sketching using a bamboo pen or wooden blocks.
- Application of natural dyes extracted from:
- Indigo
- Pomegranate peel
- Myrobalan
- Madder root
- Multiple stages of dyeing, washing, and drying.
Unique Feature
- Traditionally relies on natural and vegetable dyes, making it environmentally sustainable.
Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
- Srikalahasti Kalamkari received a GI Tag in 2007.
- Machilipatnam Kalamkari also enjoys GI protection.
- Both are associated with Andhra Pradesh.
Cultural Significance
- Preserves traditional storytelling through visual art.
- Represents the fusion of textile craftsmanship and painting.
- Serves as an important source of livelihood for artisan communities.
- Promotes India’s soft power and cultural diplomacy internationally.
UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis
Kalamkari is important because UPSC frequently asks questions on:
- Traditional painting styles.
- GI-tagged handicrafts.
- Regional art forms and their states.
- Cultural diplomacy and heritage promotion.
Source/Reference
Subject: International Relations / International Organizations (UNCLOS, Maritime Law, Dispute Resolution Mechanisms)
Why in News?
Professor Bimal N. Patel of India has been elected as a Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) for the term 2026–2035. His election enhances India’s representation in global maritime governance and international legal institutions.
What is ITLOS?
- The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) is an independent judicial body established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
- It adjudicates disputes arising from the interpretation and application of UNCLOS.
- Began functioning in 1996.
Headquarters
- Hamburg
Establishment
- Created under Part XV and Annex VI of United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
- UNCLOS was adopted in 1982 and entered into force in 1994.
Composition
- Consists of 21 independent judges.
- Judges are elected by States Parties to UNCLOS.
- Term of office: 9 years.
- Judges are elected from different geographical regions to ensure equitable representation.
Jurisdiction of ITLOS
ITLOS deals with disputes relating to:
Maritime Boundaries
- Delimitation of territorial seas, Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), and continental shelves.
Navigation Rights
- Freedom of navigation and passage through international waters.
Marine Resources
- Conservation and utilization of living marine resources.
Marine Environment
- Protection and preservation of the marine environment.
Deep Seabed Activities
- Disputes concerning activities in “The Area” (international seabed beyond national jurisdiction).
Special Chambers of ITLOS
Seabed Disputes Chamber
- Has compulsory jurisdiction over disputes related to deep seabed mining activities.
Chamber for Fisheries Disputes
- Deals with fisheries-related disputes.
Marine Environment Chamber
- Addresses marine environmental protection issues.
Relationship with UNCLOS
ITLOS is one of the principal dispute-settlement mechanisms under UNCLOS, alongside:
- International Court of Justice
- Arbitral Tribunals under Annex VII of UNCLOS.
- Special Arbitration under Annex VIII of UNCLOS.
Important Maritime Zones under UNCLOS
Territorial Sea
- Extends up to 12 nautical miles from the baseline.
- Coastal state enjoys full sovereignty.
Contiguous Zone
- Extends up to 24 nautical miles.
- Coastal state can enforce customs, immigration, fiscal, and sanitary laws.
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
- Extends up to 200 nautical miles.
- Coastal state has sovereign rights over natural resources.
Continental Shelf
- Seabed and subsoil extending beyond territorial waters.
- Can extend beyond 200 nautical miles under specified conditions.
India and ITLOS
- India is a party to UNCLOS.
- ITLOS decisions are important for India’s interests relating to:
- Maritime security.
- Blue Economy.
- Deep-sea mining.
- Fisheries management.
- Indian Ocean governance.
Bimal N. Patel
- Former Vice-Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University.
- Elected as ITLOS Judge for the period 2026–2035.
UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis
- UPSC frequently asks questions on UNCLOS, maritime zones, international organizations, and dispute-resolution mechanisms.
- ITLOS is particularly important because it is the specialized judicial body dealing exclusively with disputes under UNCLOS.
Source/Reference
Subject: Science & Technology / Internal Security / Governance (Criminal Justice Reforms, Digital Policing, Biometrics, NCRB)
Why in News?
The Abhigyan App was launched by the Union Home Minister during the 26th All India Fingerprint Conference 2026. Developed by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the application is designed to enable real-time identification of suspects and criminals using fingerprint authentication.
Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) database.
- Matching results can be generated in about 35 seconds.
- Officers can instantly access criminal records linked to the fingerprint. repository of fingerprints of accused persons and convicts. investigations and routine checks.
- Helps identify absconders, repeat offenders, and suspects quickly. access to police stations. -enforcement personnel. states and Union Territories.
- Supports interoperability among police forces. 0search0
Legal Basis
- The Act enables collection, storage, and analysis of biometric and other identification data for criminal investigations.
Crime Prevention
- Can assist in identifying repeat offenders and inter-state criminal networks when combined with AI-based analytics and national crime databases.
- Purpose: Real-time criminal identification and investigation support
Source/Reference
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2275306®=3&lang=1
Subject: Science & Technology / Health (Genetic Disorders, Tribal Health, Public Health Missions)
Why in News?
On International Sickle Cell Day (19 June 2026), President Droupadi Murmu expressed confidence that India could eliminate sickle cell disease well before the target year of 2047. She highlighted that over 7 crore people have already been screened under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission.
What is Sickle Cell Anaemia?
- Sickle Cell Anaemia (SCA) is an inherited genetic blood disorder.
- It occurs due to a mutation in the gene responsible for producing haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
- The disease causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped (crescent-shaped) instead of their normal disc shape.
Consequences
- Reduced oxygen transport.
- Chronic anaemia.
- Severe pain episodes (sickle cell crises).
- Increased risk of infections.
- Damage to organs due to blocked blood vessels.
Genetic Basis
- It is an autosomal recessive disorder.
- A person develops the disease only when they inherit the defective gene from both parents.
- Individuals with only one defective gene are known as carriers (sickle cell trait) and may not show symptoms.
Who is Most Affected in India?
- The disease is highly prevalent among tribal populations.
- Major affected regions include:
- Madhya Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Chhattisgarh
- Gujarat
- Odisha
- Jharkhand
- Rajasthan
- Scientific studies indicate that prevalence among tribal communities is significantly higher than in the general population.
National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM)
- Launched in 2023.
- Target: Eliminate Sickle Cell Disease as a public health problem by 2047.
- Joint initiative of:
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
- Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Key Components
- Universal screening of vulnerable populations.
- Early diagnosis and treatment.
- Genetic counselling.
- Distribution of Sickle Cell Cards.
- Digital monitoring and follow-up.
Major Achievements
- More than 7 crore people screened.
- Around 2.5 lakh individuals diagnosed with the disease.
- Over 20 lakh carriers identified.
- The screening target was achieved ahead of schedule, making it one of the world’s largest genetic disease screening programmes.
Management and Prevention
Management
- Regular medical monitoring.
- Vaccination and infection prevention.
- Blood transfusions in severe cases.
- Hydroxyurea therapy.
- Bone marrow transplantation (potential cure in selected cases).
Prevention
- Genetic screening.
- Pre-marital counselling.
- Carrier identification.
- Public awareness campaigns.
UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis
This topic is important because UPSC frequently asks questions on:
- Genetic disorders and inheritance patterns.
- Public health missions.
- Tribal health initiatives.
- Screening and disease prevention programmes.
Source/Reference
Subject: Economy / Geography / Infrastructure (Petroleum Products, Road Construction Materials, Energy Security)
Why in News?
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disrupted global supply chains and increased concerns regarding the availability and pricing of bitumen, a crucial raw material used in road construction. India imports a significant portion of its bitumen requirements, making infrastructure projects vulnerable to external shocks.
What is Bitumen?
- Bitumen is a black, sticky, highly viscous hydrocarbon obtained mainly from the refining of crude oil.
- It is commonly known as asphalt binder because it binds aggregates together in road construction.
- It is a by-product of the petroleum refining process.
Characteristics
- Waterproof.
- Highly adhesive.
- Thermoplastic in nature (softens when heated and hardens on cooling).
- Resistant to weathering and chemical action.
Uses of Bitumen
Road Construction
- Primary material used in flexible pavements.
- Acts as a binding agent for stone aggregates.
Waterproofing
- Used in roofs, dams, canals, and building foundations.
Industrial Applications
- Manufacturing of insulation materials.
- Protective coatings and sealants.
How is Bitumen Produced?
- Derived from the residual fraction left after the distillation of crude oil.
- Obtained during the final stages of petroleum refining.
- Can also occur naturally in deposits known as oil sands or tar sands.
India and Bitumen
- India is one of the world’s largest road-building nations.
- Demand is driven by flagship programmes such as:
- Bharatmala Pariyojana
- PM Gati Shakti
- Rural road connectivity projects.
Import Dependence
- Domestic production does not fully meet demand.
- India imports substantial quantities of bitumen from countries in the Middle East and elsewhere.
- Supply disruptions can increase project costs and delay infrastructure development.
Difference Between Bitumen and Tar
Bitumen
- Obtained from crude oil refining.
- More commonly used in modern road construction.
- Environmentally safer compared to tar.
Tar
- Obtained from destructive distillation of coal.
- Contains higher concentrations of carcinogenic compounds.
- Largely replaced by bitumen in road construction.
Environmental Concerns
- Production is linked to fossil fuel extraction and refining.
- Road surfaces made from bitumen contribute to urban heat absorption.
- Researchers are exploring:
- Bio-bitumen from renewable sources.
- Recycled asphalt technologies.
- Sustainable road-building materials.
UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis
- Bitumen is important because it connects topics from petroleum refining, infrastructure development, transportation, and energy security.
- UPSC may ask about its source, properties, uses, or distinction from coal tar.
Source/Reference
Subject: Internal Security / Defence & Security (Maritime Security, Coastal Surveillance, Maritime Law Enforcement)
Why in News?
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) was recently conferred the prestigious President’s Colour in recognition of its distinguished service to the nation. The honour acknowledges the force’s significant contributions to maritime security, coastal surveillance, search and rescue operations, environmental protection, and humanitarian assistance.
What is the Indian Coast Guard?
- The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is India’s premier maritime law enforcement and search-and-rescue force.
- It functions under the Ministry of Defence.
- Established under the Coast Guard Act, 1978.
- Formally came into existence on 18 August 1978.
Need for the Coast Guard
Before the establishment of the ICG:
- Smuggling through sea routes was increasing.
- Illegal fishing and maritime crimes posed challenges.
- The Navy’s primary role was national defence rather than maritime policing.
The Coast Guard was created to fill this gap between naval defence and civilian maritime administration.
Motto
- “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect)
Headquarters
- New Delhi
Functions of the Indian Coast Guard
- Maritime Security
- Protects India’s maritime zones.
- Prevents smuggling, piracy, and illegal activities at sea.
- Coastal Surveillance
- Monitors India’s vast coastline and island territories.
- Supports coastal security architecture.
- Search and Rescue (SAR)
- Assists distressed ships, fishermen, and mariners.
- Coordinates rescue operations in India’s Search and Rescue Region (SRR).
- Marine Environment Protection
- Responds to oil spills and marine pollution incidents.
- Enforces environmental regulations in maritime areas.
- Protection of Fishermen
- Provides assistance and safety support to fishing communities.
- Prevents illegal fishing in Indian waters.
- Assistance During Disasters
- Conducts humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations during cyclones, floods, and maritime emergencies.
Jurisdiction
The ICG operates across:
- Territorial Waters (12 nautical miles)
- Contiguous Zone (24 nautical miles)
- Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) (200 nautical miles)
- High seas as required under international obligations
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
India exercises sovereign rights over exploration and exploitation of marine resources within its EEZ.
Key Assets
- Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs)
- Fast Patrol Vessels
- Interceptor Boats
- Dornier Maritime Surveillance Aircraft
- Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH)
- Pollution Control Vessels
The ICG is among the world’s largest coast guard forces.
President’s Colour
- The President’s Colour is the highest honour bestowed upon a military or uniformed force unit in India.
- It recognizes exceptional service, dedication, and achievements.
- The Indian Coast Guard became the latest maritime force to receive this distinction.
Role in Maritime Security Architecture
The Coast Guard plays a crucial role in:
- SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.
- Coastal security after the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
- Blue Economy protection.
- Anti-piracy and anti-smuggling operations.
- Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).
UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis
- UPSC frequently asks questions on maritime security institutions, coastal security mechanisms, and defence organizations.
- The Coast Guard is particularly important because it bridges the gap between civilian maritime administration and naval defence.
Source/Reference
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2275961®=48&lang=1
Subject: Environment & Ecology / Science & Technology (Air Pollution, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Tropospheric Ozone)
Why in News?
India has strengthened its air quality monitoring framework by expanding the monitoring of Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (NMHCs) under the National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Programme. The move aims to improve understanding of ozone formation and urban air pollution.
What are Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (NMHCs)?
- NMHCs are hydrocarbon compounds present in the atmosphere excluding methane (CH₄).
- They form a major subset of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
- NMHCs readily participate in atmospheric chemical reactions and contribute significantly to air pollution.
Examples
- Benzene
- Toluene
- Xylene
- Ethylene
- Propylene
- Hexane
Sources of NMHCs
Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Sources
- Vehicular emissions.
- Petroleum refineries.
- Chemical and petrochemical industries.
- Paints, solvents, and adhesives.
- Fuel storage and distribution systems.
- Biomass burning and waste burning.
Natural Sources
- Forests and vegetation.
- Wetlands.
- Natural decomposition processes.
Why are NMHCs Important?
Formation of Ground-Level Ozone
NMHCs react with nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight to form tropospheric (ground-level) ozone, a harmful pollutant.
Photochemical Smog
- Major contributors to urban photochemical smog.
- Responsible for reduced visibility and degraded air quality.
Health Impacts
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation.
- Respiratory disorders.
- Aggravation of asthma.
- Some compounds such as benzene are carcinogenic.
Environmental Effects
- Damage to crops and vegetation.
- Reduced agricultural productivity.
- Ecosystem stress due to ozone formation.
NMHCs vs Methane
| Feature | Methane (CH₄) | Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (NMHCs) |
|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric Lifetime | Long | Generally shorter |
| Role | Greenhouse gas | Ozone precursor |
| Reactivity | Relatively low | Highly reactive |
| Main Concern | Climate change | Air pollution and smog |
Monitoring in India
National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAAQMP)
- Implemented by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
- Monitors various air pollutants across the country.
- Increasing emphasis on NMHC monitoring to better assess ozone pollution.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
- Supports scientific monitoring and management of urban air pollution.
- Helps cities identify pollution sources and mitigation strategies.
Link with Ozone Pollution
Tropospheric Ozone
- A secondary pollutant.
- Not emitted directly.
- Formed through reactions involving:
- NMHCs (or VOCs)
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
- Sunlight
Stratospheric Ozone vs Tropospheric Ozone
- Stratospheric ozone protects Earth from UV radiation.
- Tropospheric ozone is a harmful air pollutant.
UPSC Prelims-Oriented Analysis
NMHCs are important because UPSC frequently asks questions on:
- Air pollutants and their sources.
- Secondary pollutants.
- Ozone formation.
- Environmental monitoring mechanisms.
Source/Reference
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2274059®=3&lang=1
(MAINS Focus)
GS III – Science & Technology / GS II – Governance
Space Technology, Indigenisation, and National Development
Introduction
India’s space programme has evolved into a key driver of development, security, and innovation. Milestones such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission, along with the growth of 400+ space startups and policy reforms, are strengthening India’s position as a leading global space power.
India’s Space Capability: Reaching Beyond Earth
Lunar Exploration – The Chandrayaan Programme
- Chandrayaan-1 (2008): Discovered water molecules on Moon’s surface
- Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Provided highest-resolution lunar surface images (30 cm resolution)
- Chandrayaan-3 (2023): First country to soft-land near Moon’s south pole; fourth nation to soft-land on lunar surface; confirmed presence of Sulphur
- Future Missions: Chandrayaan-4 (2027) for sample return; Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX with JAXA for polar exploration
Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan)
- First country to reach Mars on maiden attempt (2014)
- Only fourth space agency to place spacecraft in Martian orbit
- Remained operational for over 8 years (six-month design life)
Aditya-L1: India’s First Solar Observatory
- Placed in halo orbit around Sun-Earth L1 point (2023)
- Studies solar corona, solar winds, and space weather
- Over 27 TB of solar observation data disseminated globally
Space Astronomy and Docking Capabilities
- AstroSat: India’s first multi-wavelength space observatory; completed a decade in orbit (2025)
- XPoSat (2024): Expanded X-ray astronomy capabilities
- SPADEX (2025): Made India fourth nation to demonstrate autonomous docking; enabled power transfer and robotic arm testing in microgravity
Gaganyaan: India’s First Human Spaceflight
- Aims to send 3 astronauts to 400-km orbit for 3 days
- Includes two uncrewed and one crewed mission
- Axiom-4 mission (2025) provided operational experience in microgravity research
Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
- Five-module space station in Low Earth Orbit
- First module (BAS-01) approved for launch by 2028
- Will support long-duration human missions and microgravity research
Venus Orbiter Mission (2028)
- India’s first mission to Venus
- Will study geology, atmosphere, and ionosphere
- Demonstrates advanced aerobraking and thermal management systems
Building National Capacity: Private Participation and Innovation
Private Sector Transformation
- Startups: 1 (2014) to 400+ (Feb 2026)
- Investment: Exceeded $500 million; $150 million in 2025 alone
- Key Players: Pixxel, Dhruva Space, Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul Cosmos, Bellatrix Aerospace
- Indian Space Policy 2023: Enabled private participation across space value chain
FDI Liberalisation (February 2024)
- 100% FDI (Automatic): Satellite manufacturing components, ground segment subsystems
- 74% FDI (Automatic): Satellite manufacturing, operations, data products
- 49% FDI (Automatic): Launch vehicles, spaceports
- 100% FDI (Automatic): Manufacturing components and subsystems
Institutional Reforms
- IN-SPACe (2022): Single-window authorisation for private activities; facilitated 71 technology transfers
- NSIL (2019): Commercialises ISRO technologies; revenues grew from ₹321.77 crore (FY22) to ₹3,246.09 crore (FY25)
- NGP 2024: Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for transparent space activities
Self-Reliant Space Transportation
- Current Capability: PSLV, GSLV, LVM3 for up to 10 tons to LEO
- Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): 30 tons to LEO capability
- Reusable Launch Vehicle: Partially reusable NGLV variant; winged body upper stage
- Second Spaceport: Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu
- Third Launch Pad: Sriharikota (₹3,984.86 crore approved, Jan 2025)
Indigenous Technologies
- VIKRAM3201: India’s first fully indigenous 32-bit space microprocessor
- KALPANA32: High-reliability space processor
- Electric Propulsion System: First satellite targeted for 2026-27
- Vikas Engine Throttling: Critical for reusable rockets
- CE20 Bootstrap Ignition: Enables multiple engine restarts
Applications Touching Everyday Life
NavIC – India’s Indigenous Navigation System
- Provides positioning across India and 1,500 km beyond
- Second-generation satellites: NVS-01 (2023), NVS-02 (2025)
- Applications: Power-grid synchronisation, train tracking, Aadhaar geo-tagging, vehicle monitoring
- South Africa partnership for NavIC reference station (2025)
Data-Driven Governance
- Agriculture: Crop acreage mapping, production forecasting, drought assessment
- Water Resources: India-WRIS, National Hydrology Project
- Rural Development: MGNREGA, PMGSY, PMKSY monitoring
Disaster Management
- NDEM 5.0: Real-time geospatial information for emergency response
- SASAR: Satellite Aided Search and Rescue programme
- Monitors cyclones, floods, landslides, forest fires
Health and Education
- Telemedicine: 179 nodes; 80 in high-altitude regions (J&K, Ladakh, Siachen)
- PM e-VIDYA: 370 educational television channels via GSAT-15 and GSAT-9
Supporting Coastal Communities
- PFZ Advisories: Potential Fishing Zone alerts reduce fuel consumption
- Distress Alert Transmitters: Emergency alerts from fishing vessels
Global Partnerships and Credibility
International Satellite Launches
- Pre-2014: 35 foreign satellites
- Post-2014 (as on March 2026): 399 foreign satellites
- Space Agreements: 300+ with 61 countries and 5 multilateral organisations
Major Collaborations
- NISAR (NASA-ISRO): Launched July 2025; monitors climate change and disasters
- TRISHNA (CNES-ISRO): Thermal imaging for natural resource assessment (2026)
- Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX (JAXA-ISRO): Lunar polar exploration (2027-28)
- ESA-ISRO: Joint statement on human spaceflight and BAS cooperation
- Germany: 11 satellites launched; new collaboration in optical communications, human spaceflight
- Italy: Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029; lunar science focus
- Saudi Arabia: MoU for satellite development and space science
Regional Leadership
- BIMSTEC Space Programme: “Neighbourhood First” policy; NESAC training
- South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9): 12 Ku-band transponders for Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka
- Bhutan: MoU for peaceful uses of outer space (2020)
- Mauritius: Joint satellite development (2023)
India-Russia Partnership
- Dates back to 1975 (Aryabhata) and 1984 (Rakesh Sharma)
- Gaganyaan support: Astronaut training, life-support systems
- GLONASS-NavIC navigation cooperation
Challenges
- Funding Constraints: Space budget remains modest compared to global peers
- Technology Gaps: Semi-cryogenic engines, reusable launch systems still under development
- Commercialisation Pace: India’s 2-3% global space economy share needs accelerated growth
- Regulatory Framework: Implementation of NGP 2024 requires continuous refinement
- Skilled Workforce: Need for specialised human resources in emerging space domains
Way Forward
Space Economy Expansion
- Target 8% global share by 2030; grow from $8 billion to $40-45 billion
- Strengthen NSIL commercialisation and technology transfer
- Expand PPP models (Earth Observation constellation approved 2026)
Technology Development
- Complete NGLV development for 30-ton LEO capability
- Demonstrate reusable launch vehicle technologies
- Expand electric propulsion and semi-cryogenic engine capabilities
Human Spaceflight and Space Station
- Execute Gaganyaan crewed mission
- Launch BAS-01 module by 2028
- Complete five-module Bharatiya Antariksh Station
Deep Space Exploration
- Chandrayaan-4 sample return (2027)
- Venus Orbiter Mission (2028)
- Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX with JAXA
Global Leadership
- Strengthen partnerships with NASA, ESA, JAXA, ROSCOSMOS
- Lead regional initiatives (BIMSTEC, South Asia Satellite)
- Promote peaceful and responsible use of outer space
Conclusion
India’s space transformation reflects its rise from scientific capability to global space leadership. Achievements such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, and a thriving space startup ecosystem highlight growing technological strength. Moving towards Space Vision 2047, India aims to combine space-led innovation with self-reliance and inclusive development.
Practice Question
- India’s space programme has emerged as a key pillar of development, security, and global influence. Examine its achievements, challenges, and the measures needed to realise Space Vision 2047. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2276117®=3&lang=1
GS II – Governance / GS III – Science & Technology
Government Policies, Health Regulation, and Drug Safety
Introduction
The ban on 16 irrational Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) drugs underscores the government’s focus on patient safety and evidence-based medicine. While FDCs can improve treatment compliance, unsafe combinations pose health risks and contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Effective enforcement is essential to ensure such drugs are removed from the market and public health is protected.
Understanding Fixed-Dose Combinations (FDCs)
Definition and Rationale
- Definition: FDCs contain two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients in a fixed ratio in a single dosage form.
- Rational Use: Provide therapeutic benefits when drugs act by different mechanisms, have compatible pharmacokinetics, and enhanced efficacy.
- Advantages: Reduce pill burden, improve patient compliance, simplify dosage schedules, and can be cost-effective.
- Applications: Essential in chronic conditions like tuberculosis (TB), HIV/AIDS, malaria, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Risks of Irrational FDCs
- Pharmacodynamic Mismatch: Additive or antagonistic effects can reduce efficacy or enhance side effects.
- Pharmacokinetic Disparity: Different peak efficacy times for individual components reduce overall effectiveness.
- Dose Inflexibility: Patients cannot titrate individual drug doses; may be exposed to unnecessary drugs.
- Adverse Reactions: Difficulty identifying which ingredient causes an allergy or side effect.
- Antimicrobial Resistance: Irrational antibiotic FDCs contribute to AMR, a major public health crisis.
The Ban on 16 FDCs: Context and Rationale
Regulatory Background
- Supreme Court Direction: Ordered a comprehensive review of FDCs available in the Indian market.
- Expert Committee Evaluation: DTAB-constituted panel examined safety, efficacy, and therapeutic value.
- Conclusion: 16 combinations lacked adequate therapeutic justification and posed potential health risks.
- Legal Basis: Ban imposed under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, which empowers the central government to prohibit drugs in public interest.
Categories of Banned Drugs
- Dermatological Products: Several combinations containing Aloe Vera with vitamins, oils, and herbal ingredients (10 out of 16 banned).
- Analgesics and Antispasmodics: Combinations like Acetyl Salicylic Acid + Ethoheptazine, Dicyclomine + Paracetamol + Clidinium Bromide.
- Antibiotic-Based Formulations: Amoxicillin + Serratiopeptidase, Amoxicillin + Serratiopeptidase + Lactobacillus Sporogenes, Cefadroxyl + Probenecid.
- Other Formulations: Gliclazide + Chromium Picolinate, Paracetamol + Lignocaine.
Precedents of FDC Bans in India
- 2016 Ban: Government banned over 330 FDC drugs, deeming them irrational with immediate effect.
- 2018-2019 Bans: 405 FDCs banned, including triple-drug combinations.
- 2024 Ban: 156 FDCs banned in August 2024; 29 vitamin-mineral supplements banned in February 2026.
- Consistency: Actions demonstrate sustained regulatory effort to remove irrational combinations from the market.
Persistent Challenges
- Enforcement Gaps: Previous bans saw banned drugs still sold due to poor message percolation.
- State-Level Approvals: Many FDCs were approved by state authorities lacking technical expertise; 1083 irrational FDCs identified by Kokate Committee.
- Industry Evasion: Companies reformulate banned products with new components to circumvent orders.
- Lack of Post-Market Surveillance: No robust system for periodic review of FDCs older than 10 years.
- Market Size: India’s large FDC market (over 6300 products) makes comprehensive regulation challenging.
Global Perspective
- WHO Guidelines: FDCs included in essential medicines list but limited to specific therapeutic classes; WHO advocates rational use.
- US FDA: Approves FDCs with demonstrated clinical benefit; nearly 63 products approved.
- European Medicines Agency: Updated guidelines emphasise clinical benefit over market authorisation.
- India’s Model: More stringent in banning irrational FDCs compared to many countries, but faces unique enforcement challenges.
Way Forward
Strengthening Regulatory Mechanisms
- Periodic Review: Mandate review of all FDCs approved over 10 years ago.
- State-Level Capacity Building: Enhance technical expertise of state drug controllers.
- Unified Approval System: Ensure all FDCs are approved by CDSCO, not state authorities alone.
- Pharmacovigilance: Strengthen adverse drug reaction monitoring for FDCs.
Enforcement and Compliance
- Strict Monitoring: States must ensure banned drugs are not sold; penalties for non-compliance.
- Digital Tracking: Implement barcode-based tracking of FDCs from manufacture to pharmacy.
- Public Awareness: Inform healthcare professionals and patients about banned drugs and safer alternatives.
- Industry Collaboration: Provide clear guidelines for developing rational FDCs with proven clinical benefits.
Promoting Rational FDCs
- Evidence-Based Development: Encourage FDCs with demonstrated advantages over individual components.
- WHO Alignment: Align FDC approval with WHO prequalification standards.
- Pharmacogenetic Screening: Explore personalised FDCs using advancements like 3D printing.
- Chronic Disease Focus: Prioritise rational FDCs in TB, HIV, malaria, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Conclusion
The ban on 16 irrational FDCs is a step towards safer and evidence-based healthcare. However, its success depends on strong enforcement, effective surveillance, and regular review of drug formulations. Strengthening regulatory capacity and ensuring compliance are essential to promote rational drug use and protect public health.
Practice Question
- Irrational Fixed-Dose Combinations pose significant risks to public health. Examine the challenges in regulating FDCs in India and suggest measures to strengthen their oversight and enforcement. (15 Marks, 250 Words)