11 February 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

1. What has the Budget offered scientists?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Boost for Research and Innovation

• The Budget allocates ₹20,000 crore to the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and private sector research, including startups.
• The DST will oversee the fund, which is part of a ₹1 lakh crore corpus aimed at strengthening R&D, particularly in deeptech and sunrise sectors.
• The National Geospatial Mission receives ₹100 crore for geospatial infrastructure development, supporting the National Geospatial Policy 2022.
• Other initiatives include the Nuclear Energy Mission, clean tech programs, and Atal Tinkering Labs.

Biotechnology Advancements

• The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) receives ₹3,446.64 crore, a 51.45% increase from the previous year.
• The recently approved ‘Bio-RIDE’ scheme aims to promote bio-entrepreneurship and biomanufacturing.
• The Budget’s support for private sector research will accelerate progress in gene-editing, personalized medicine, and sustainable agriculture.
• The National Mission on High Yielding Seeds will focus on developing pest-resistant and climate-resilient seeds.

Support for Scientific and Industrial Research

• The Budget prioritizes science, technology, and innovation (STI) for national progress.
• Public-private partnerships and industry collaborations will drive innovation in manufacturing, healthcare, and sustainability.
• Initiatives such as the Aroma and Floriculture Missions will boost agriculture, while the Millets Mission supports self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds.
• The Green Hydrogen Mission aligns with India’s clean energy goals.
• Programs for youth skilling, entrepreneurship, and sustainable farming receive emphasis.

Nuclear Power and Private Sector Participation

• The Budget supports India’s goal of increasing nuclear power capacity to 100 GWe by 2047.
• Private sector participation in nuclear energy introduces new challenges and opportunities.
• The success of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is vital for India’s energy transition.
• The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) ensures nuclear safety through global collaborations.

Concerns Over Reduced Funding for Basic Science

• While science and technology funding increases, basic research receives limited attention.
• The Budget mainly supports mission-mode projects such as nuclear energy and AI.
• Amendments to the Nuclear Liability and Damage Act 2010 raise concerns.
• The deeptech startup ecosystem benefits from a ₹10,000 crore fund, but investment confidence remains low.
• Bureaucratic hurdles continue to affect research funding.

Education and Health Research

• Health research receives increased support, particularly in biomedical devices and nutrition.
• Central universities receive only a 4.3% budget increase, compared to an 8.4% rise for IITs, despite serving more students.
• A revision of research fellowships is needed to support young researchers adequately.
• AI research receives funding, but concerns remain about its real benefits for Indian society.
• The Budget lacks significant steps to address mental health and value-based learning in schools.

Challenges in Education and Scientific Development

• The National Education Policy (NEP-2020) recommended spending 6% of GDP on education, but the Budget allocates only 2.54%.
• Funding for institutions such as IISc and IISERs has been reduced.
• The University Grants Commission (UGC) faced a major budget cut in the previous year, and although there is an increase this year, it remains below pre-2024 levels.
• There is a five-fold increase in funding for ‘Indian Knowledge Systems,’ indicating a shift in educational priorities.

Conclusion

• Overall, the Budget places a strong focus on applied research and industrial collaboration but raises concerns about the lack of support for basic research and education.

2. India-France AI Summit: Strengthening Strategic Ties and Shaping Global AI Governance

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 16)

Analysis of the news:

India’s Recognition in AI Leadership

• The invitation underscores India’s strategic approach to AI and its growing influence in global tech policy.
• Unlike China, a dominant force in AI, France’s choice of India reflects shared values and a commitment to ethical AI development.
• The partnership builds on decades of collaboration, dating back to President Jacques Chirac’s 1998 call for a “21st-century partnership” with India.

AI Summit’s Global Cooperation and Goals

• The Paris AI Summit follows AI conferences in the UK (November 2023) and South Korea (May 2024).
• These earlier summits produced the Bletchley Park Declaration and the Seoul Declaration, both reinforcing global AI safety and governance.

The Paris Summit will focus on:

• Public Interest AI
• Future of Work
• Innovation and Culture
• Trust in AI
• Global AI Governance

It will leverage multilateral efforts, including the UN, OECD, G7, G20, and the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI), ensuring AI benefits are equitably distributed, particularly in the Global South.

India’s AI Strategy and Global Advocacy

India will highlight its ₹10,371 crore IndiaAI Mission, emphasizing “Making AI in India and for India.” Key priorities include:

• Leading GPAI to shape global AI governance.
• Bridging the AI divide, ensuring accessibility for developing nations.
• Championing Global South priorities, advocating for fair AI policies.

India-France Strategic Partnership and Defence Ties

India and France share a long-standing strategic partnership, expanding from defence and security to technology, trade, and sustainability. Their defence cooperation includes:

• Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines under the “Make in India” framework.
• Co-development of next-gen fighter jet engines and DRDO’s new office in Paris.

The two nations also collaborate on space, nuclear energy, renewable energy, and innovation.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties During Modi’s Visit

• Prime Minister Modi’s visit will see the unveiling of the India-France Innovation Year 2026 logo, the inauguration of a new Indian Consulate in Marseille, and an India-France CEOs’ forum.
• The leaders will also explore Indo-Pacific development projects and visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) facilities, reinforcing cooperation in fusion energy.

Enduring Diplomatic Relations

• India-France ties are built on strategic autonomy and mutual respect. France has consistently supported India, including refusing to condemn India post-Pokhran II nuclear tests (1998) and engaging diplomatically during challenging global scenarios.
• Their durable partnership continues to evolve, positioning both nations as key players in AI, defence, and global governance.

3. PM-VIKAS SCHEME

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2101513&reg=3&lang=1 )

Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) Scheme:

• Objective: Aims to uplift artisans and craftsmen from minority communities by providing skill development, market linkages, and financial support.
• Ministry: Implemented by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
• Target Beneficiaries: Focuses on minority communities, including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis.
• Skill Development: Provides upskilling and entrepreneurship training in traditional arts, crafts, and modern skills.
• Financial Assistance: Facilitates credit support through subsidized loans under various government schemes.
• Market Linkages: Enhances access to national and international markets through exhibitions and digital platforms.
• Integration with Other Schemes: It converges other government schemes such as PM Vishwakarma Yojana, ‘Seekho Aur Kamao’, ‘Nai Manzil’, ‘Nai Roshni’, ‘Hamari Dharohar’ and ‘USTTAD’s scheme.
• Digital Empowerment: Encourages e-commerce adoption and digital marketing skills.
• Employment Generation: Aims to create sustainable livelihoods and preserve India’s rich heritage.

4. Schemes to Address Climate Change

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2101289&reg=3&lang=1 )

National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

• Launched in 2008 as India’s overarching framework for climate action.
• Comprises eight missions: Solar, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Himalayan Ecosystem, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture, and Climate Change Knowledge.
• Aims to promote adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development.
• Encourages state-level initiatives through State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs).

Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP)

• Strengthens institutional capacities for climate policy formulation.
• Supports scientific research, climate modeling, and vulnerability assessments.
• Funds adaptation and mitigation projects at national and state levels.
• Facilitates collaboration among ministries for climate action.
• Aims to integrate climate concerns into policy-making and development planning.

National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC)

• Provides 100% grant-based financial assistance for adaptation projects.
• Focuses on agriculture, forestry, water resources, and eco-restoration.
• Prioritizes projects for rural communities vulnerable to climate change.
• Implemented by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
• Supports climate resilience and long-term sustainability in affected regions.

Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)

• Launched in 2022, focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes.
• Encourages energy conservation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly consumption.
• Aims to reduce carbon footprint through individual and community action.
• Involves schools, businesses, and civil society in sustainability efforts.
• Promotes reuse, recycling, and responsible consumption.

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)

• Aims to restore and conserve mangrove ecosystems along India’s coast.
• Enhances coastal resilience against cyclones, erosion, and sea-level rise.
• Supports livelihoods through sustainable mangrove-based activities.
• Implemented through convergence of MGNREGA, CAMPA, and other schemes.
• Focuses on community participation and scientific interventions.

Prelims Facts

1. Cross-blood transplant performed on a patient with Bombay blood

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Challenges in Transplant Procedure for Bombay Blood Group

• Rarity of Donors: Bombay blood group individuals can only receive organs or blood from another person with the same rare blood type.
• High Risk of Rejection: The absence of the H antigen leads to the production of anti-H antibodies, which strongly attack any incompatible donor organ.
• Lack of Precedents: No prior cross-blood transplants had been performed on a Bombay blood group patient, making it difficult to determine a safe antibody level.
• Complex Antibody Removal: Standard plasmapheresis methods used for ABO-incompatible transplants had to be adapted to remove anti-H antibodies effectively.
• Emergency Blood Supply Issues: Finding Bombay blood group blood units for transfusion in case of surgical complications is extremely difficult.

2. Is global warming accelerating?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

January 2025 Breaks Heat Record

• This year’s January was 1.75°C warmer than pre-industrial times.
• This marked the 18th month out of the last 19 when global temperatures reached or exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Main Cause of Rising Temperatures

• The main reason for the record heat is the buildup of greenhouse gases from burning coal, oil, and natural gas.
• Natural factors like El Niño and La Niña also influence global temperatures.

Unexpected Temperature Trends

• El Niño, which ended in June 2024, contributed to the record heat last year.
• La Niña, which started in January 2025, usually cools the planet but has not significantly slowed warming.
• Some experts predict 2025 could be even hotter than 2024, despite earlier forecasts of lower temperatures.

3. There are more minerals on earth than are dreamt of in our geology

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Tanzanite

• A blue variety of calcium aluminium hydroxyl sorosilicate, found only in Tanzania.
• Its blue colour comes from traces of vanadium (X) in the crystal structure.
• Used in jewelry and is highly valued due to its rarity and pleochroism (showing different colors under different lighting).

Painite

• A rare borate mineral first discovered in Myanmar, containing zirconium and boron (Y).
• It was once considered the rarest mineral on Earth due to its scarcity.
• Has a dark brown to reddish colour and is highly sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts.

Jadeite

• A pyroxene mineral with the chemical formula NaAlSi₂O₆.
• Known for its green varieties, which are highly valued in Chinese culture as imperial jade.
• Forms in subduction zones under high pressure and temperature, making it geologically rare.

Lunar Breccia (Dhofar 280 Meteorite)

• A type of rock formed from fragmented lunar material fused together.
• The Dhofar 280 meteorite found in Oman (2000) contains lunar breccia, indicating moon origin.
• Studied to understand the Moon’s geology and impact history.

Ekanite

• A radioactive mineral found mainly in Sri Lanka.
• Its crystal structure is slowly destroyed by self-radiation damage, a process known as metamictization (Z).
• Contains uranium and thorium, making it a rare radioactive silicate mineral.

4. India Seeks Increased LNG Imports from the US to Strengthen Energy Security and Trade Ties

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Economy- Page No. – 15)

Analysis of the news:

Strategic Energy Discussions During Modi’s US Visit

• Higher LNG imports from the US may be a key agenda item in PM Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington.
• The India Energy Week in Delhi will also serve as a platform for Indian and US firms to negotiate long-term LNG contracts, benefiting from Trump’s recent reversal of the Biden-era ban on new US LNG export permits.

Economic and Trade Implications

• Increasing US LNG imports not only supports India’s energy security but also helps reduce its trade surplus with the US.
• Given Trump’s tough stance on trade and tariffs, higher energy purchases from Washington could ease trade tensions and strengthen economic ties.
• Other nations have also signaled interest in buying more US LNG to balance their trade with America.

India’s LNG Demand and Diversification Strategy

• India, already a top global LNG importer, aims to increase natural gas’s share in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 (from the current 6%).
• As domestic gas production remains limited, LNG imports are expected to drive this growth, prompting India to expand its LNG import and regasification capacity.

Indian Oil Firms’ Approach to US LNG

• Indian firms are looking for long-term LNG contracts and may invest in US LNG projects for financial and supply security benefits.
• Currently, GAIL has contracts for 5.8 million tonnes per year of US LNG, but Qatar remains India’s primary supplier.
• LNG from Qatar is oil-price-linked, whereas US LNG is linked to Henry Hub prices, making a diversified contract portfolio essential to manage price volatility.