Current Affairs 21 February 2024

CONTENTS

1. Conservation of Migratory Species COP 14
2. Mangaluru Plans to Strengthen Business Ties with Proximity to Lakshadweep
3. Revolutionizing Cancer Care: AI in Oncology at AIIMS Delhi
4. Regenerative Potential of Menstrual Blood Stem Cells
5. BharatNet Project
6. Quasars

Conservation of Migratory Species COP 14

Context:

The Fourteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP) to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS 14) has been concluded in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Key Outcomes of CMS COP 14: Enhancing Conservation Efforts for Migratory Species
2. Migratory Species and CMS: A Conservation Overview

Key Outcomes of CMS COP 14: Enhancing Conservation Efforts for Migratory Species

Species Listings:

• Adoption of listing proposals for 14 migratory species, including Eurasian lynx, Peruvian pelican, Pallas’s cat, guanaco, Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, and others.
• Aim to bolster protection and conservation initiatives for the listed species.

Cooperation Among Range States:

• Emphasis on collaboration between range states to tackle threats, conduct research, and implement conservation activities.
• Range states crucial in managing, conserving, and protecting species within their geographical range.

Conservation Objectives:

• Focus on maintaining populations, enhancing connectivity, safeguarding habitats, and restoring populations.
• Addressing threats such as habitat degradation, illegal trade, bycatch, and human activities impacting migratory species.

Threats to Migratory Species:

• Identification of threats like habitat degradation, fragmentation, illegal trade, bycatch, contaminants, and various human activities.
• CMS listing aimed at mitigating these threats and promoting species conservation.

International Collaboration:

• Range states working together to propose listing amendments and adopt conservation measures.
• Support from countries like North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and others for joint efforts in species protection.

Conservation Status Recognition:

• Recognition of species like Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, Peruvian pelican, and Magellanic plover as ‘Vulnerable,’ ‘Endangered,’ or ‘Critically Endangered’ in the IUCN Red List.
• CMS listings intended to improve conservation status and provide habitat protection.

Regional and Global Conservation Strategies:

• Adoption of proposals reflecting efforts to address conservation challenges at both regional and global levels.
• Recommendations for measures targeting specific populations and broader conservation strategies.

Migratory Species and CMS: A Conservation Overview

Migratory Species:

• Wild animals, or lower taxa, whose entire population or part of it cyclically and predictably crosses national jurisdictional boundaries.
• The term ‘cyclically’ involves any recurring cycle, whether astronomical, life-related, or climatic.
• ‘Predictably’ indicates anticipation of recurrence under specific circumstances, though not necessarily at regular intervals.

CMS (Convention on Migratory Species):

• Intergovernmental treaty under UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme), known as the Bonn Convention.
• Established in 1979, in force since 1983, with 133 Parties as of March 1, 2022.
• India has been a party since 1983.

Objectives:

• Aims to conserve terrestrial, marine, and avian migratory species across their range.
• Provides a legal framework for global-scale conservation measures.
• Offers a spectrum of legal instruments, from binding Agreements to informal Memoranda of Understanding (MoU).

Appendices under CMS:

• Appendix I: Lists ‘Threatened Migratory Species.’
• Appendix II: Lists ‘Migratory Species requiring international cooperation.’

India’s Engagement with CMS:

• Signed non-binding MoUs with CMS for conservation and management of Siberian Cranes (1998), Marine Turtles (2007), Dugongs (2008), and Raptors (2016).
• India, with 2.4% of the world’s land area, contributes to around 8% of global biodiversity.
• Provides temporary refuge to migratory species like Amur Falcons, Bar-headed Geese, Black-necked Cranes, Marine Turtles, Dugongs, Humpback Whales, etc.

-Source: Indian Express

Mangaluru Plans to Strengthen Business Ties with Proximity to Lakshadweep

Context:

As Lakshadweep, with its proximity to international shipping routes, emerges as a potential logistics hub, Mangaluru, its neighboring city, is strategically planning to enhance historic business connections. The move aims to capitalize on the geographical advantage and foster strengthened economic ties between the two regions.

Relevance:

GS II: Government policies and Interventions

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Tourism and Logistics Potential of Lakshadweep: A Comprehensive Overview
2. About Lakshadweep
3. Concerns Related to Development in Lakshadweep: A Comprehensive Overview

Tourism and Logistics Potential of Lakshadweep: A Comprehensive Overview

Tourism:

• The unspoiled beauty of Lakshadweep, featuring pristine beaches, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, positions it as an extraordinary tourist destination.
• By implementing sustainable tourism practices and developing essential infrastructure, Lakshadweep has the potential to evolve into a leading tourist hotspot.

Trade and Logistics:

• Located near major international shipping routes, Lakshadweep is strategically positioned to become a key logistics hub.
• Its proximity to Mangaluru, a significant port in coastal Karnataka, opens avenues for trade partnerships and efficient cargo handling.
• With proposed enhancements in port connectivity and infrastructure, Lakshadweep could streamline trade operations, fostering local businesses and contributing to the regional economy.

Regional Growth:

• Development initiatives outlined in the Interim Budget 2024-25 for Lakshadweep not only benefit the islands but also spur regional growth, particularly in areas like Mangaluru.
• The Budget emphasizes projects focusing on port connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and amenities to promote domestic tourism.

Enhanced Connectivity and Ecological Significance:

• Improved connectivity and the establishment of cruise routes have the potential to boost tourism and economic activities in Lakshadweep and its neighboring regions.
• Lakshadweep’s designation as a restricted area underscores its ecological significance, and proposals for eco-friendly practices, such as anchoring cruise vessels at sea, reflect a commitment to sustainability.

About Lakshadweep

Introduction

• India’s smallest Union Territory, Lakshadweep, is an archipelago consisting of 36 islands covering an area of 32 sq km.
• It is a uni-district UT comprising 12 atolls, three reefs, five submerged banks, and ten inhabited islands.
• The capital is Kavaratti, also serving as the principal town of the UT.

Geographical Location

• Positioned between 8º – 12º 13″ North latitude and 71º – 74º East longitude, Lakshadweep lies 220 to 440 Kms away from the coastal city of Kochi.
  • The maritime boundary between the Maldives and Minicoy (India) runs through the Eight Degree Channel.
  • The Nine Degree Channel separates Minicoy from the main Lakshadweep archipelago.

Coral Atolls

• The islands are predominantly coral atolls, characterized by coral reefs surrounding a lagoon.

Demography

• As of the 2011 Census, Lakshadweep has a population of 64,429.
• Over 93% of the indigenous population are Muslims, primarily adhering to the Shafi School of the Sunni Sect.
• Malayalam is the predominant language, except on Minicoy where Mahl is spoken, written in Divehi script (also spoken in the Maldives).
• The entire indigenous population is classified as Scheduled Tribes, with no Scheduled Castes in the Union Territory.

Climate

• Lakshadweep experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warmth and humidity throughout the year.

Significance of Lakshadweep for India

Strategic Location

• Lakshadweep’s proximity to major international shipping routes enhances India’s strategic maritime influence.
  • The Nine Degree Channel serves as a crucial passage for shipping between the Middle East, Europe, and Western Asia with Southeast Asia.

Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

• The islands contribute to India’s EEZ, providing rights over the exploration and use of marine resources in the surrounding waters.
  • Due to Lakshadweep’s proximity, India gains access to 20,000 square kilometers of sea, including fisheries, oil and gas exploration, and other economic activities.

Maritime Security

• The Indian Navy and Coast Guard utilize the islands as a base for enhancing maritime security.

Economic Significance

• The scenic beauty of Lakshadweep positions it as a notable tourist destination.
• The islands contribute significantly to India’s fishery resources.

Biodiversity and Marine Life

• The coral atolls and surrounding waters of Lakshadweep host diverse marine life, including coral reefs and various fish species.

Concerns Related to Development in Lakshadweep: A Comprehensive Overview

Environmental Risks:

• The fragile ecosystem of Lakshadweep, encompassing coral reefs and marine life, faces potential threats from construction, pollution, and heightened human activity.
• Adopting sustainable development practices and enforcing stringent environmental regulations becomes imperative to safeguard the islands’ natural resources.

Cultural Heritage and Indigenous Communities:

• Rapid development and increased tourism may pose a risk to the traditional way of life and cultural heritage of the indigenous communities in Lakshadweep.
• Striking a balance between development goals and cultural preservation necessitates thoughtful strategies.

Infrastructure Challenges:

• Inadequate infrastructure, encompassing transportation, accommodation, and healthcare facilities, poses a significant hurdle to the growth of tourism and trade in Lakshadweep.
• Ensuring modern infrastructure development while preserving the islands’ unique character demands meticulous planning and substantial investment.

Security Concerns:

• Lakshadweep’s proximity to international shipping routes and its status as a restricted area raise security apprehensions.
• A harmonious approach, considering both security needs and the promotion of tourism and trade, requires collaborative efforts among government agencies and stakeholders.

Community Engagement:

• Inclusive participation of local communities in the planning and execution of development projects is pivotal for their success and sustainability.
• Equitable distribution of development benefits among residents, coupled with addressing their concerns, is crucial for fostering social cohesion and garnering support for growth initiatives.

-Source: Indian Express

Revolutionizing Cancer Care: AI in Oncology at AIIMS Delhi

Context:

At the forefront of medical innovation, researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi have developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered model named iOncology AI Project, integrated with a supercomputer, to aid oncologists in making informed decisions regarding cancer treatment.

Relevance:

GS II: Health

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Key Highlights of the iOncology AI Project: Revolutionizing Cancer Care
2. Global Cancer Scenario: Understanding the Complexity

Key Highlights of the iOncology AI Project: Revolutionizing Cancer Care

• The iOncology AI project is a collaborative initiative involving AIIMS in Delhi, Pune’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology.
• Aiming to revolutionize cancer care, the project combines expertise in medical research and computational science.

Objectives:

• Leverage AI to enhance precision and efficacy in cancer treatment by analyzing extensive datasets encompassing genetic profiles, clinical histories, and treatment outcomes.

Working Procedure:

• Developed with C-DAC, the platform stores and analyzes diverse cancer-related data, including blood tests, lab reports, scans, and patient histories.
• Utilizes advanced algorithms to assist doctors in making treatment decisions based on comprehensive genomic data analysis, providing personalized treatment plans.
• Enhances clinical decision-making by automatically flagging abnormalities in scans and reports.

Focus on Breast and Ovarian Cancers:

• Initial application of iOncology.ai focuses on early detection of breast and ovarian cancers, prevalent among women in India.

Impacts:

• Improves cancer patient outcomes and quality of life through early detection and personalized treatment.
• Reduces the burden and cost of cancer care by enhancing healthcare professionals’ efficiency and optimizing resource use.
• Contributes valuable insights and data for cancer research and innovation, fostering further analysis and development.

Global Cancer Scenario: Understanding the Complexity

• Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body.
• Cancer cells, with their unregulated growth, have the capacity to invade and destroy healthy tissues and organs.

Cell Cycle Disruption:

• In a healthy body, cells follow a regulated cycle of growth, division, and death.
• Genetic mutations in cancer disrupt this normal cell cycle, leading to uncontrolled growth and potentially forming tumours.

Global Cancer Statistics:

• According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) estimates for 2020, there were 19.3 million incident cancer cases worldwide.
• India ranked third globally in the number of cancer cases after China and the United States.

Cancer Projections in India:

• A Lancet study predicts a 57.5% increase in cancer cases in India by 2040, reaching 2.08 million.
• In 2022, over 8 lakh deaths in India were attributed to cancer, primarily due to late detection, resulting in a low 20% survival rate.

Challenges and Impact:

• Late detection poses a significant challenge in cancer management globally, affecting survival rates.
• Understanding the global cancer scenario is crucial for implementing effective prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies.

-Source: The Hindu

Regenerative Potential of Menstrual Blood Stem Cells

Context:

Recent research has uncovered the regenerative capabilities of stem cells found in menstrual blood, marking a significant breakthrough that stems from studies conducted over the past two decades. This revelation not only expands our understanding of the intricate dynamics between the female reproductive system and regenerative processes but also opens new frontiers in reproductive health.

Relevance:

GS II: Health

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Menstrual Blood Stem Cells (MenSCs)
2. Challenges in Menstrual Stem Cell Research

Menstrual Blood Stem Cells (MenSCs):

Characteristics:

• Also known as endometrial stromal mesenchymal stem cells.
• Exhibit multipotent properties, capable of differentiating into various tissue types (e.g., fat cells, bone cells, smooth muscle cells).

Ethical Source:

• Considered an ethical source of adult stem cells.
• Painlessly collected from women, offering an alternative to surgical biopsies.
• Collected through a menstrual cup, providing a non-invasive method.

Collection and Origin:

• Derived from menstrual blood, specifically from the endometrium (lining inside the uterus).

Role in Women’s Health:

Multipotent Characteristics:

• MenSCs can differentiate into neurons, cartilage, fat, bone, heart, liver, and skin cells.

Potential Therapeutic Applications:

• Treatment of gynaecological disorders like endometriosis and infertility.
• Endometriosis Overview:
  • Disease where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
  • Symptoms include pelvic pain, painful intercourse, infertility, heavy menstrual bleeding, and gastrointestinal issues.
  • MenSCs play a role as the backflow of menstrual blood contributes to endometriosis.

Beyond Gynaecological Diseases:

• Diabetes Treatment:
  • Injection of MenSCs in diabetic mice stimulated the regeneration of insulin-producing cells, improving blood sugar levels.
• Wound Healing:
  • Menstrual stem cells or their secretions applied to injuries aided wound healing in mice.

Transplantation in Humans:

• Menstrual stem cells can be transplanted into humans without adverse side effects, indicating their potential in regenerative medicine.

Challenges in Menstrual Stem Cell Research

Limited Research Share:

• Despite the convenience of collection, menstrual stem cell research is a minute fraction of overall stem cell research.
• As of 2020, menstrual stem cell research comprised only 0.25% of all mesenchymal cell research, whereas bone marrow stem cells represented a significant share at 47.7%.

Consistent and Scalable Production:

• Ensuring consistent and scalable production of MenSCs for clinical applications poses a challenge.
• Achieving standardized methods for production is vital to harness the full potential of MenSCs in regenerative medicine.

Cultural Taboos and Limited Investment:

• Cultural taboos surrounding menstruation contribute to limited investment in women’s health research.
• Securing funding for menstrual stem cell studies faces challenges due to societal attitudes and perceptions.

Gender Bias in Research Funding:

• Addressing gender bias in research funding is crucial for advancing menstrual stem cell research.
• Overcoming stereotypes and biases associated with women’s health is necessary to recognize and develop the promising applications of menstrual stem cells in regenerative medicine.

-Source: The Hindu

BharatNet Project

Context:

State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has floated around Rs 65,000-crore tender for the implementation of the phase-III BharatNet project.

Relevance:

GS III: Indian Economy

Dimensions of the Article:

1. BharatNet Project: Transforming Rural Broadband Connectivity in India
2. Phases of Implementation
3. Budget Allocation
4. Progress, Challenges, and Future Plans of the BharatNet Project

BharatNet Project: Transforming Rural Broadband Connectivity in India

• BharatNet is the world’s largest rural broadband connectivity initiative, focusing on optical fiber-based internet access.
• It is managed by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), a special purpose organization under the Ministry of Communications, Department of Telecommunications.
• Aligned with the Digital India program, it aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance rural internet access.

Features & Benefits:

• Leveraging optical fiber technology, the project aims to connect over 2.5 lakh gram panchayats across India with broadband internet.
• The goal is to provide a minimum of 100 Mbps bandwidth to each Gram Panchayat, facilitating access to e-services like e-governance, e-learning, e-commerce, and more.
• Wi-Fi hotspots are being established in all gram panchayats, ensuring last-mile connectivity.
• The project is expected to boost direct and indirect employment opportunities and increase income generation in rural areas.
• Home broadband packages are available, starting from Rs 399 per month, offering 30 Mbps unlimited data and bundled OTT services.

Phases of Implementation:

• The project is being implemented in three phases, as approved by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in 2016.

Phase-I:

• Aiming to cover 1,00,000 Gram Panchayats (GPs).
• Execution carried out by three Central Public Sector Units (CPSUs): BSNL, RailTel, and PGCIL.
• Targeted completion by March 2017.

Phase-II:

• Encompasses the remaining GPs using a mix of underground/aerial optical fiber cables (OFC), radio, and satellite technologies.
• Involves three CPSUs and State Governments, often through their Discoms (Distribution Companies) or other agencies.
• Targeted completion by December 2018.

Phase-III:

• Envisions a futuristic network with a ring topology connecting districts, blocks, and Gram Panchayats.
• Targeted completion by 2023.
• The BharatNet project’s multi-phased approach aims to achieve comprehensive broadband connectivity in rural areas, leveraging a combination of technologies and partnerships for nationwide impact.

Budget Allocation:

• The BharatNet project has been allocated a total budget of Rs. 61,000 crore.
• Funds are allocated in a consolidated manner, not specific to individual states or Union Territories.
• The Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) disburses a lump sum amount to Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) for project execution.
• USOF collects levies from telecom companies to support communication service development in rural and underserved areas.

Progress, Challenges, and Future Plans of the BharatNet Project

Achievements So Far:

• Initial goal: Connecting 2.5 lakh gram panchayats with optical fiber by August 2021.
• Current status: Approximately 1.94 lakh villages connected; remaining villages expected to be connected within the next 2.5 years.
• Delays caused by COVID-related lockdowns and movement restrictions.
• Government extended the project deadline to 2025 in the Union Budget 2022-23.

Challenges Faced:

Slow Implementation:

• Implementation progress has been relatively slow.
• About 194,000 gram panchayats have been made service-ready as of March this year.
• Around 6,000 gram panchayats were added from November 2022 to March.

PPP Mode Challenges:

• Initial attempt to involve private companies through a public-private partnership (PPP) model faced challenges.
• First request for proposal (RFP) in July 2021 received no response from private players.
• Concerns over onerous terms and conditions and unfavorable revenue sharing model.

Future Plans:

• Government to introduce a revised PPP model for the BharatNet project in the coming months.
• The updated model aims to address challenges faced by private companies and attract their participation.
• The focus remains on expanding optical fiber-based broadband connectivity to rural areas across India.

-Source: The Hindu

Quasars

Context:

An international team of astronomers said the recently discovered quasar named J0529-4351 was the brightest and fastest-growing quasar discovered so far and had a supermassive black hole about 17 billion times the mass of the Sun.

Relevance:

GS III: Science and Technology

Quasars:

• A quasar is an extraordinarily active and luminous type of active galactic nucleus (AGN).

Active Galactic Nucleus (AGN):

• AGN is characterized by a supermassive black hole actively feeding at the center of a galaxy.
• Quasars are a specific subset of AGNs.

Formation and Location:

• Quasars are believed to form in regions of the universe with higher-than-average large-scale matter density.

Attributes:

• Among the most luminous, powerful, and vibrant objects known in the universe.

Formation Process:

• Active galaxies have a central supermassive black hole consuming large amounts of matter.
• Infall of matter creates a spiraling accretion disk, with material falling at varying speeds.
• Friction and collisions among fast-moving gas clouds generate heat, leading to a brilliantly shining accretion disk.
• Some material is funneled away from the black hole in a highly luminous, magnetically collimated jet.
• The combination of the hot accretion disk and the jet results in the intense brightness of the active galaxy’s nucleus, making quasars visible across vast cosmic distances.

Brightness and Distance:

• Brightest quasars can outshine all stars in their host galaxies, visible even at distances of billions of light-years.
• Many quasars have been discovered billions of light-years away.

-Source: The Hindu