Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Context:  NIPGR (National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Delhi) used CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing in japonica rice to enhance phosphate uptake and yield

Key Scientific Findings:

• Edited rice lines targeted the OsPHT1;2 phosphate transporter gene.
• Suppressor gene OsWRKY6 was removed to enhance gene expression.
• Result:
  • 40% higher yield even with only 10% of recommended phosphate fertilizer.
  • More panicles, seeds, and biomass.
  • Better phosphate translocation from root to shoot.

Methodology:

• Focused on root-to-shoot phosphate transporter.
• Removed repressor binding site to ensure constant gene activity.
• Plants were tested for off-target effects using PCR, sequencing, and Southern blotting.
• Strict non-GMO compliance: no foreign DNA (e.g., bacterial vector) used.

Regulatory & Ethical Aspects:

• CRISPR-based editing is not considered GMO if no foreign DNA is inserted.
• India uses Mendelian segregation to ensure only edited plants without transgenes are propagated.
• Ongoing negotiations to ease regulatory constraints on such precision-bred crops.

Significance:

• Can help reduce fertilizer dependency.
• Useful in phosphorus-deficient soils.
• Gene editing can be a sustainable solution to improve food security without compromising yield or grain quality.

Learning Corner:

National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR)

• Established: 1998
• Location: New Delhi
• Autonomous Institute under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India
• Mandate: To conduct advanced research in plant genomics and molecular biology to improve crop productivity and stress resistance.

Key Functions and Research Areas:

• Genome sequencing and analysis of major Indian crops.
• Gene discovery for traits like yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutrient efficiency.
• Use of advanced tools like CRISPR-Cas9 for gene editing.
• Research in functional genomics, transgenic technologies, and bioinformatics.
• Collaborations with national and international agricultural and biotech institutions.

CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Technology

CRISPR-Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats – CRISPR associated protein 9) is a revolutionary genome-editing tool that allows scientists to precisely modify DNA within organisms.

Origin:

• Derived from a natural defense mechanism in bacteria, which use CRISPR sequences and the Cas9 enzyme to cut viral DNA.

How It Works:

1. A guide RNA (gRNA) is designed to match the target DNA sequence.
2. The Cas9 enzyme acts like molecular scissors, guided by gRNA to cut the DNA at the desired location.
3. The cell’s natural repair mechanism is then used to add, delete, or replace DNA sequences.

Advantages:

• Highly precise and efficient
• Faster and cheaper than older gene-editing methods (like TALENs or ZFNs)
• Can be used in plants, animals, and humans
• Enables targeted crop improvement without introducing foreign DNA (non-GMO)

Applications:

• Agriculture: Developing crops with higher yield, disease resistance, or nutrient efficiency (e.g., NIPGR’s phosphate-efficient rice)
• Medicine: Gene therapy, cancer treatment, and research on genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia
• Research: Studying gene function in model organisms

Source: THE HINDU

Category: ENVIRONMENT

Context: A recent sighting of the Great Hornbill in Ezhimala, Kannur (Kerala) has drawn attention to the ecological significance of the region.

Significance of the Great Hornbill

• The Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) is a large bird known for its role as a seed disperser and indicator of mature, healthy forests.
• It is classified as Vulnerable, with declining populations due to habitat loss and hunting.

Why the Ezhimala Sighting Matters

• Ezhimala is not part of the species’ typical range, suggesting the presence of remnant forest patches or ecological corridors.
• The sighting indicates the region’s biodiversity potential and highlights opportunities for ecological restoration.

Conservation Imperatives

• Protect forest fragments and ecological corridors in Ezhimala and nearby areas.
• Promote community-based conservation, including habitat monitoring and restoration.
• Strengthen wildlife protection laws and consider expanding protected area networks.
• Use the Great Hornbill as a flagship species to raise awareness and inspire conservation action.

Broader Implications

• Highlights the need to curb deforestation and habitat fragmentation.
• Emphasizes the value of combining scientific research, traditional knowledge, and local participation in conservation.
• Shows that wildlife recovery is possible with timely and sustained efforts.

Learning Corner:

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)

The Great Hornbill is one of the largest and most iconic hornbill species found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Key Features:

• Distinctive casque (helmet-like structure) on top of its beak.
• Large, colorful bird with black, white, and yellow plumage.
• Known for its loud calls and graceful flight despite its size.

Habitat:

• Prefers dense evergreen and moist deciduous forests.
• Commonly found in the Western Ghats, Northeast India, and parts of Southeast Asia.

Ecological Role:

• Acts as a key seed disperser, aiding in forest regeneration.
• Considered an indicator species for healthy, mature forests.

Conservation Status:

• Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
• Threatened by:
  • Habitat loss due to deforestation
  • Hunting for casque and feathers
  • Loss of nesting trees

Conservation Efforts:

• Protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Community-led programs like the Hornbill Nest Adoption Program promote habitat preservation and awareness.

Source: THE HINDU

Category: INTERNATIONAL

Context : Norman Tebbit: Key Ally of Margaret Thatcher died at 94.

Overview

Norman Tebbit (1931–2025) was a prominent British Conservative politician and a key figure in Margaret Thatcher’s government during the 1980s. Known for his toughness and working-class appeal, he played a major role in reshaping British conservatism.

Political Career

• Held key Cabinet roles including Secretary of State for Employment, Trade and Industry, and Chairman of the Conservative Party.
• Spearheaded trade union reforms, notably through the Employment Act 1982, reducing union power and strengthening employer rights.
• Famously linked to the phrase “get on your bike”, symbolizing self-reliance and individual effort.

Stance on Europe

• A vocal Eurosceptic, he later led the Bruges Group, opposing deeper European integration.

Public Image and Legacy

• Nicknamed “Thatcher’s Enforcer” for his firm political stance and loyalty.
• Known for controversial views on immigration and national identity, including the “cricket test” on assimilation.
• Retired from the Commons in 1992, continued contributing to debates as a life peer in the House of Lords.

Learning Corner:

Thatcherism

Thatcherism refers to the political and economic ideology associated with Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990. It represents a significant shift in British politics towards free-market capitalism, individualism, and a reduction in state intervention.

Key Features:

1. Free Market Economics:
   • Emphasis on privatization of state-owned industries.
   • Promotion of deregulation and reduced government control over the economy.
2. Monetarism:
   • Focus on controlling inflation over unemployment.
   • Reduced public spending and tight control over the money supply.
3. Tax Reform:
   • Shift from direct to indirect taxation.
   • Lower top income tax rates to incentivize wealth creation.
4. Trade Union Reforms:
   • Curtailment of union powers through strict legislation.
   • Ended closed shops and restricted the right to strike.
5. Individual Responsibility:
   • Advocacy of self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and home ownership.
   • Famous quote: “There is no such thing as society.”
6. Euroscepticism:
   • Opposition to deeper political integration within the European Community.

Impact:

• Led to a transformation of the British economy, with lasting influence on both Conservative and Labour Party policies.
• Created social and regional divisions, with critics pointing to rising inequality and erosion of the welfare state.
• Became a defining phase of neoliberal governance in the UK and influenced global policy shifts in the 1980s.

Source :  TIMES OF INDIA

Category: INTERNATIONAL

Context: On July 8, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, Brazil’s highest national honour for foreign dignitaries.

About the Honour:

• The Order of the Southern Cross was established in 1822 to mark Brazil’s independence.
• It is awarded to foreign nationals for exceptional service to Brazil.
• The Grand Collar is the highest rank within the order and is conferred by presidential decree.

Significance:

• The award recognizes Modi’s contributions to strengthening India–Brazil relations and enhancing cooperation on global platforms.
• Modi dedicated the honour to the 1.4 billion people of India, highlighting the deep friendship between the two nations.

Learning Corner:

International Honours Conferred on PM Narendra Modi

Key International Honours:

1. Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross – Brazil (2025)
   • Brazil’s highest civilian honour for foreign dignitaries, recognizing Modi’s efforts in strengthening India–Brazil ties.
2. Order of Zayed – United Arab Emirates (2019)
   • The UAE’s highest civilian award, acknowledging his strategic leadership and promotion of bilateral ties.
3. Legion of Merit – United States (2020)
   • Conferred by the U.S. President for Modi’s role in enhancing strategic partnership and promoting Indo-Pacific security.
4. Order of St. Andrew – Russia (2019)
   • Russia’s highest civilian honour, awarded for exceptional services in promoting bilateral cooperation.
5. Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin – Maldives (2019)
   • The highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries by the Maldives for enhancing bilateral relations.
6. King Hamad Order of the Renaissance – Bahrain (2019)
   • Given for strengthening ties between India and Bahrain.
7. Global Energy and Environment Leadership Award – CERAWeek, USA (2021)
   • For leadership in promoting energy sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Source: PIB

Category: POLITY

Context: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has extended the timeline for implementing its directive to ban fuel supply to End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) in Delhi-NCR due to operational and technical challenges

Revised Timeline:

• From November 1, 2025: Ban will apply in Delhi and five NCR districts—Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, and Sonipat.
• From April 1, 2026: Ban will extend to the rest of NCR.
• Until October 31, 2025: Fuel supply to ELVs will continue.

What Are ELVs?

• Diesel vehicles over 10 years old
• Petrol vehicles over 15 years old

Reason for Extension:

• Issues with the Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system:
  • Glitches, poor camera coverage, sensor errors
  • Incomplete data integration across NCR states
• To avoid policy loopholes, such as vehicle owners refueling in neighboring towns
• To allow for coordinated implementation and technological upgrades

Learning Corner:

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) is a statutory body established by the Government of India to address air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region.

Key Features:

• Established: October 2020 (via an ordinance; later enacted through legislation in August 2021)
• Jurisdiction: Covers Delhi and adjoining areas in Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
• Headquarters: New Delhi

Objectives:

• Ensure coordinated action among central and state agencies to combat air pollution.
• Oversee the implementation of air quality improvement plans, including Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
• Replace multiple bodies like EPCA (Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority).

Functions:

• Monitor and enforce environmental laws related to air quality.
• Direct closure or regulation of polluting industries and vehicles.
• Oversee biomass burning, dust control, and vehicular pollution measures.
• Coordinate with NCR states on emission reduction and implementation of technologies like PUSA bio-decomposer and ANPR systems.

Source: PIB

Introduction (Context)

A new study presented at the 2025 Goldschmidt Conference in Prague warned that melting glaciers can trigger more frequent and explosive volcanic eruptions, especially in West Antarctica, due to loss of ice pressure over underground magma chambers.

What are glaciers?

• Glaciers are massive, slow-moving bodies of ice and snow that form on land and flow under their own weight. 
• Glaciers move due to gravity and the internal deformation of the ice. They can move relatively slowly, but over time, this movement shapes the landscape. 
• Glaciers are categorized as either alpine (mountain) glaciers or continental glaciers (ice sheets). 
• Glaciers form in areas where snowfall accumulates faster than it melts or evaporates over many years, eventually compacting into ice. 

Locations of major glaciers:

• Asia: Himalayas (Siachen, Gangotri, Yamunotri), Karakoram (Baltoro)
• Antarctica: Lambert Glacier (world’s largest)
• Arctic: Greenland Ice Sheet
• South America: Patagonian glaciers (Perito Moreno)
• Europe: Alps (Aletsch Glacier)

Why glaciers are melting?

Since the early 1900s, many glaciers around the world have been rapidly melting. Human activities are at the root of this phenomenon.

• Global warming: Rising temperatures accelerate ice melt.
• Black carbon deposition: Soot reduces albedo, increasing heat absorption.
• Industrial pollution: Alters atmospheric chemistry, impacting snowfall and melt rates.
• Changes in precipitation patterns: Reduced snowfall and increased rainfall accelerate melting.

Even if we significantly curb emissions in the coming decades, more than a third of the world’s remaining glaciers will melt before the year 2100. 

Scientists project that if emissions continue to rise unchecked, the Arctic could be ice free in the summer as soon as the year 2040 as ocean and air temperatures continue to rise rapidly.

Link between glaciers and volcanoes

• Melting glaciers reduce the pressure exerted by ice on underground magma chamber
• This allows gases and magma to expand, potentially resulting in explosive eruptions.
• Greatest risk regions:

• • West Antarctica: ~100 volcanoes buried under ice that may melt in coming decades
  • Other regions: North America, New Zealand, Russia.

• Study of Chile’s Mocho Choshuenco volcano showed thick ice suppressed eruptions during last ice age (26,000–18,000 years ago). Melting 13,000 years ago led to explosive eruptions due to pressure release and magma expansion.
• Changes in rainfall, also driven by climate change, can infiltrate underground and react with magma systems, triggering eruptions.

Impacts of volcanic eruptions

• Short-term cooling:

• • Release of ash, dust, and sulfur dioxide blocks sunlight, reducing Earth’s surface temperature.
  • Sulfur dioxide goes into the stratosphere and reacts with water to form sulfuric acid aerosols. These aerosols reflect incoming solar radiation, leading to the cooling of the Earth’s surface.
  • According to the US centre for Science Education, the aerosols can stay in the stratosphere for up to three years, moved around by winds and causing significant cooling worldwide. 

• Long-term warming:

• • Sustained eruptions release greenhouse gases like CO₂ and methane, contributing to further global warming, creating a vicious cycle:
  • As global temperatures rise, there will be a higher rate of melting of ice, which could cause more eruptions and further global warming.

Way Forward

• Strengthen climate change mitigation efforts to limit global warming and reduce glacier melt rate.
• Enhance glacial monitoring systems for early warning of eruptions and GLOFs.
• International cooperation for research and disaster preparedness in glacier-rich volcanic regions.

Mains Practice Question

Q “Melting glaciers can amplify volcanic eruptions, creating a vicious climate cycle.” Analyse the phenomenon and suggest mitigation strategies to reduce such compounded risks of climate change. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction (Context)

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit in June had pledged to increase military spending to 5% of the member nations’ GDP (specifically “core defence requirements as well as defence and security-related spending by 2035”). The previous spending target was 2%. 

What has been the historical trajectory of military expenditures?

• In cold war era: 

• • It was 6.1% of the world’s GDP in 1960. 
  • Later it reduced to 3%. 
  • It reached its lowest levels in 1998 at 2.1% (a total expenditure of around $1,100 billion)
• Whereas, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) in 2024 and 2025:

• • Global military spending was $2,718 billion. The year saw a 9.4% increase, which was the highest year-on-year increase since 1988, 
  • This was due to the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Gaza conflict. 
  • Further in 2025, the world saw two big additional conflicts, between India and Pakistan, and Israel and Iran. This, combined with the NATO pledge, will see further increases in global military spending in the coming years.

Top Military Spenders (2024)

• NATO (32 members): Combined spending of $1,506 billion (55% of global spending).
• GDP % among Top 20 (Excluding war-torn nations):

• • Saudi Arabia: 7.3%
  • Poland: 4.2%
  • USA: 3.4%
  • Others: 1.3% – 2.6%

Impact of increment in military spending

The current wave of remilitarisation threatens to reverse the gains achieved from declining military expenditure after the Cold War.

According to the Global Peace Index (2023):

• Militarisation increased in 108 countries.
• Highest number of conflicts since World War II recorded.

Military-Industrial Complex Effects:

• The increase in military spending can benefit certain sectors of the economy. 
• Yet, as studies show (for example, by Masako Ikegami and Zijian Wang, based on 116 countries), there is a significant crowding-out effect that increased military spending has on domestic government health spending, the effects of which are borne more by middle- and low-income countries. Example: Spain:

• • Spends only 1.24% of GDP on defence.
  • Opted out of NATO’s new 5% target, citing it as “unreasonable”.
  • Extra burden of €300 billion would cut welfare spending.

Impact on UN

• The latest budget of the United Nations is only $44 billion with which it should fund development, humanitarian aid, and peacekeeping operations. But the UN, in six months, has only received  $6 billion, and as a result, is seeking to reduce the budget to $29 billion. 
• This is due to the increase in military conflicts as nations are reducing foreign aids to meet their domestic needs. Example: 

• • The U.S., under President Donald Trump, seeking to cut foreign aid.
  • US has closed down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) which according to the A Lancet study, USAID assistance in healthcare, nutrition, etc., have prevented 91 million deaths in low- and middle-income countries in the past two decades

Effect on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Increased defence spending is upending the progress of achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Example: 

• To end extreme poverty in the world, only $70 billion per year is needed, which is a very small amount (just 0.1% of the income of rich countries).
• To end absolute poverty globally, the required amount is $325 billion per year, or 0.6% of high-income countries’ income, which is still far less than their military spending.
• In 2021, around 4.5 billion people did not have full access to essential health services.
• Studies show that spending just $1 per person every year on preventing major non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cancer can save about 7 million lives by 2030.

The funds which can be used for sustainable development are moving to the military. 

Environmental Impact

• Increased military spending harms the environment and climate goals. 2024 was the hottest year ever recorded, with severe heatwaves.
• If NATO countries raise their defence spending to 3.5% of GDP, it will add 200 million tonnes of greenhouse gases every year.
• Spending more on military instead of climate action will only worsen global warming and reduce funds for public welfare.
• Impact on India

India’s Military vs Health Spending:

• Military spending: 2.3% of GDP.
• Health spending: Only 1.84% of GDP, which is:
  • Less than National Health Policy target of 2.5%.
  • Much lower than ~10% spent by most developed countries.

With increasing tensions and public support for militarisation, there is a risk that spending on essential public services like health and welfare may be reduced.

Conclusion

While ensuring national security, there is a need to adopt a balanced approach between military spending and social sector investments. Countries must reassess their military targets to avoid diverting critical resources away from health, education, and welfare.

Strengthening global governance frameworks, including providing adequate funding for the United Nations and Sustainable Development Goals, is crucial to address the root causes of conflict and promote lasting peace.

Additionally, it is important to recognise the environmental impact of defence activities and integrate climate considerations into national security policies.

Mains Practice Question

Q Rising global military expenditure is often justified in the name of national security, yet it poses significant challenges to human development and environmental sustainability. Critically analyse. (250 words, 15 marks)