Month: March 2023

India’s Heatwaves: A Serious Concern

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 3, 2023

This year, heat waves have become a major concern in India. According to recent IMD reports, the scorching summer heat has arrived early. If the recent record temperatures are any indication, the heat wave is likely to intensify. Rising temperatures cause a variety of health issues, ranging from dehydration and heat exhaustion to more serious conditions such as heatstroke. They also have an impact on the economy and the environment.

What exactly is a heat wave?

A heatwave is an extended period of unusually hot weather.
Heatwaves can occur in both dry and humid climates and last for several days or weeks. They are distinguished by temperatures that are significantly higher than the regional average for that time of year.
This is because climate change is causing global temperatures to rise. As the planet warms, more extreme weather events, such as heat waves, occur. India is particularly vulnerable to these events due to its geographical location.

Heatwaves in India

Heat waves are common in India from March to June, and in rare cases, they can last until July.
Every year, five to six heat wave events occur in the northern parts of the country.
Single events can last weeks, occur in succession, and affect a large population.
India is particularly vulnerable to these events due to its geographical location.
In recent years, India has experienced some of the hottest summers on record.
In May 2016, the temperature in Phalodi, Rajasthan, reached 51 degrees Celsius, the highest ever recorded in the country.
On May 22, 2021, India experienced its hottest day, with temperatures reaching 48 degrees Celsius in Barmer, also in Rajasthan.
Jaipur experienced a severe heatwave in 2022. In April, the temperature in Rajasthan’s capital reached 45 degrees Celsius, a monthly high for the city.
Delhi, Agra, Pilani, and Rohtak are among India’s well-known hot cities, where temperatures have recently reached 43 degrees Celsius in early summer.

Link: Climate change and Heat waves

Climate change is directly linked to an increase in the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves around the world.
More severe and more common: Heatwaves are becoming more severe and frequent as the Earth’s climate continues to warm.
Global warming: This is due to changes in the atmosphere caused by global warming, such as increased greenhouse gas concentrations, which trap heat and cause temperatures to rise.
For example, climate change is making heatwaves last longer. According to a study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, heatwaves are lasting 2.5 days longer than they did in the middle of the twentieth century.

Heat waves’ socioeconomic impact

Health Effects: Heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, are becoming more common, particularly among the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
Furthermore, heat waves can aggravate pre-existing health issues such as respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

Impact on the environment:

One of the most serious issues is the depletion of water resources: as temperatures rise, water sources dry up, causing crises in many parts of the country.
People use more air conditioning to stay cool, which increases electricity consumption. This increases the use of fossil fuels, which contributes significantly to air pollution.

Impact on agriculture:

As a result of the environmental impact, agricultural problems arise, with crops failing and farmers struggling to make a living.
Given that agriculture employs roughly 40% of India’s population, this is a major concern.
Already, reports from Punjab and Western Uttar Pradesh indicate that the early heatwave has hampered wheat crop growth and is expected to reduce crop yield by 20%.

Impact on growth:

Heat-related illnesses can have significant healthcare costs, especially for vulnerable groups who may not have access to affordable healthcare.
Furthermore, heat waves can reduce worker productivity, which can have an impact on economic growth.

What can be done to address such issues?

Raising public awareness: People must be educated on the effects of rising temperatures on their health, the environment, and the economy. This can be accomplished through public campaigns, education, and the media.
Increase the use of renewable energy: India has made significant strides in this area. However, there is still much work to be done. Individuals and businesses could be incentivized by the government to invest in renewable energy, such as solar panels. This would help to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures, create new jobs, and boost economic growth.
Improving water management could include installing more efficient irrigation systems, improving rainwater harvesting, and reusing non-potable water. This would aid in the conservation of water resources and the reduction of the impact of rising temperatures on agriculture.
Investing in infrastructure that can withstand extreme temperatures: This could include the construction of heat-resistant roads and buildings, as well as the development of more energy-efficient cooling systems.

@the end

The rising heat wave in India is a serious issue that must be addressed immediately. Rising temperatures have serious consequences for human health, the environment, and the economy. However, with the right strategies in place, it is possible to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures and ensure the country’s long-term viability.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/climate-scientist-india-heatwave-8475036/

Science & Tech

ISRO has passed a critical test for the Chandrayaan-3 mission

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 2, 2023

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has completed an important test for its upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission.

What exactly was the test?

The high-thrust cryogenic engine that will power the rocket carrying the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft was tested.
The engine’s endurance and performance were evaluated under a variety of conditions.

About Chandrayaan-3 Mission

The Chandrayaan-3 mission is the Indian Space Research Organization’s third lunar exploration mission.
The mission follows the successful Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2 missions, both of which launched in 2008 and 2019.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission is designed to further explore the Moon’s South Pole region and conduct various scientific experiments, including studying the lunar surface, mineralogy, and the presence of water.

The Importance of the Recent Test

ISRO has moved one step closer to launching the Chandrayaan-3 mission with the successful test of the high-thrust cryogenic engine.
The mission is expected to be a significant step forward in India’s space exploration efforts, and it will help us better understand the Moon and its potential for future exploration and exploitation.

Chandrayaan-2: A quick recap

Chandrayaan-2 was made up of an Orbiter, Lander, and Rover, all of which were outfitted with scientific instruments for studying the moon.
The Orbiter would orbit the moon at 100 kilometres, while the Lander and Rover modules would be separated for a soft landing on the moon’s surface.
ISRO named the Lander module Vikram after India’s space pioneer Vikram Sarabhai, and the Rover module Pragyaan, which crashed-landed.

Inception of Chandrayaan 3

Following the failure of the Vikram lander, another mission was launched to demonstrate the landing capabilities required for the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission, which was proposed in collaboration with Japan for 2024.

Its design

The Chandrayaan-3 lander will only have four throttleable engines.
Unlike Vikram on Chandrayaan-2, which had five 800N engines, one of which was centrally mounted and had a fixed thrust.
The Chandrayaan-3 lander will also be outfitted with a Laser Doppler Velocimeter (LDV).

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isros-chandrayaan-3-successfully-completes-crucial-test/article66528962.ece

International Relations

Windsor Framework: The UK-EU Agreement

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 2, 2023

The ‘Windsor Framework’ will replace the Northern Ireland Protocol, which has proven to be one of the most difficult Brexit fallouts, causing both economic and political problems.

What precisely is the Northern Ireland Protocol?

Following the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union, Northern Ireland remained the only constituent with a land border with an EU member, the Republic of Ireland.
Because the EU and the United Kingdom have different product standards, border checks would be required before goods could be transported from Northern Ireland to Ireland.
However, the two Irelands have a long history of conflict, with the Belfast Agreement, also known as the Good Friday Agreement, securing a hard-fought peace only in 1998.
As tampering with this border was deemed too dangerous, it was decided that the checks would be carried out between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
This was referred to as the Northern Ireland Protocol.

What made it so contentious?

Northern Ireland remained in the EU single market under the protocol, and trade and customs inspections of goods arriving from the United Kingdom were conducted at its ports along the Irish Sea.
The checks made trade between the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland difficult, with food products, in particular, losing shelf life while they awaited clearance.
Some of the UK government’s taxation and spending policies could not be implemented in Northern Ireland due to EU regulations.
The sale of medicines was also caught between British and EU regulations.

What does the Windsor Framework proposes?

The Windsor Framework Agreement proposes two critical elements. The first is the implementation of a green and red lane system for goods.

The green lane system will only apply to goods that will remain in Northern Ireland.
The red lane system will be used for goods destined for the EU.

The ‘Stormont Brake’ is the second feature.

It gives Northern Ireland’s lawmakers and London the ability to veto any EU regulation.
The veto is applicable if they believe the regulation will have a negative impact on the region.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/windsor-framework-deal-uk-and-eu-northern-ireland-protocol-8471855/

International Relations Security Issues

Exercise Cobra Warrior

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 2, 2023

An IAF contingent will take part in Exercise Cobra Warrior at the Royal Air Force’s Waddington Air Force Base in the United Kingdom.
Cobra Warrior is an annual multinational military exercise held in the United Kingdom.
It is intended to improve the Royal Air Force’s and allied air forces’ readiness and interoperability for joint combat operations.
The exercise brings together military units from different countries, including NATO allies and partner nations, to practise and enhance their air combat capabilities.
The participating air forces conduct a series of realistic training scenarios that simulate air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attacks, and other mission types during the exercise.
The aim is to provide pilots and ground crews with realistic training lessons that will prep them for real-world combat situations.

Source: https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/iaf-to-participate-in-multi-national-exercise-cobra-warrior-in-uk-123022600633_1.html

Environment & Biodiversity

The Role of International Courts in Climate Change

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 2, 2023

At the United Nations, a group of 16 countries has launched a valiant effort to combat climate change, which is an existential threat to human civilization (UN). The group, led by Vanuatu, an island country in the South Pacific Ocean, is seeking an advisory opinion on climate change from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

International Court of Justice (ICJ)

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the primary judicial organ of the United Nations (UN). It was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands.
It has the authority to settle legal disputes between states and to provide advisory opinions on legal issues referred to it by the United Nations General Assembly, Security Council, and other authorised UN bodies.
The ICJ is made up of 15 judges who are appointed for nine-year terms by the UN General Assembly and Security Council.
Its decisions are final and binding, and its role is to settle legal disputes in accordance with international law.

The International Court of Justice has two types of jurisdiction: contentious and advisory

Contentious:

The ICJ’s authority to resolve legal disputes between consenting states is referred to as contentious jurisdiction. Decisions made under contentious jurisdiction have legal force.

Advisory:

The UN General Assembly (UNGA), Security Council (SC), and other specialised bodies of the organisation can request the ICJ’s opinion on a legal question under advisory jurisdiction.
The advisory opinions of the ICJ are not legally binding. They do, however, have significant normative weight and serve to clarify international law on pertinent issues.
The ICJ’s advisory opinion on climate change can be useful in national climate-related litigation.

Vanuatu’s initiative takes shape

Failure to deliver concrete climate change solutions:

Despite the presence of several international legal instruments on climate change, such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement, the international community has fallen short of delivering concrete climate change solutions.

COP-27 Failed to Resolve Disagreements:

The recently concluded 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP-27) failed to narrow countries’ differences on critical issues such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Countries were unable to reach a consensus on meaningful action.

Small Island Developing (SID) States’ Vulnerability:

SID states such as Vanuatu are particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures and sea levels.
As a result, in September 2021, Vanuatu launched an initiative through the UNGA to seek an advisory opinion from the ICJ to clarify all countries’ legal obligations to prevent and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Since then, the initiative has gained traction, with more than 100 countries supporting it. Vanuatu’s draught resolution specifically requests answers from the ICJ to the following questions.

The Legal questions

What are countries’ international legal obligations to protect the climate system from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions for current and future generations?

Answer: The ICJ will interpret existing climate change law and use customary international law to fill gaps, including the ‘no-harm’ (states are under an obligation that activities within their jurisdiction do not damage other countries) principle, to clarify the Paris Agreement.

What are the legal ramifications for states that have harmed the climate system, the SID states, and other people of the present and future generations?

Answer: Climate reparations are demanded as part of climate justice, in which rich countries that have historically been high emitters compensate developing countries affected by climate change. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) can provide legal principles for the ‘loss and damage’ fund.

Confusion regarding the loss and damage fund

There is little clarity on funding: It was agreed at COP-27 to establish a loss and damage fund to assist financially vulnerable developing countries. However, it is unclear which countries will provide the funding.
Undetermined historical responsibility: Furthermore, the relationship between funding and developed countries’ historical responsibility for emissions has yet to be determined.

Role of International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS)

The advisory opinion of the Hamburg-based ITLOS has been sought by the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law, which includes countries such as Antigua and Barbuda and Tuvalu.
ITLOS has been asked to determine countries’ obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding marine pollution, which is linked to ocean warming, sea level rise, and acidification.

@the end

The role of international courts should be welcomed as part of a multi-pronged approach to saving our planet. Developed countries and groups such as the G-20 should support the SID states’ commendable initiatives. The environment and climate sustainability are important G-20 themes. Given its relentless emphasis on the LiFE (developing an environmentally friendly lifestyle) campaign, India, as the G-20 president, should take the lead.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/international-courts-and-climate-change/article66564780.ece

Governance

“Adopt a Heritage” Project and Monument Mitras

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 2, 2023

The Scrutiny Companies that enter into agreements with ASI to adopt sites will be referred to as Monument Mitras. The tenfold increase in the number of sites brought under the controversial 2017 ‘Adopt a Heritage’ scheme raises concerns. Unless and until the’revamped’ scheme is suspended, the nation’s priceless pluralistic heritage will be lost.

Everything you need to know about the Ministry of Tourism’s Adopt a Heritage project

The Indian government launched the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ scheme in September 2017 under the auspices of the Ministries of Tourism, Culture, and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Objective: The scheme’s main goal is to provide world-class tourist facilities at various natural/cultural heritage sites, monuments, and other tourist sites across the country in order to make them more tourist-friendly and to increase their tourist potential and cultural importance.
The project’s primary focus is on providing basic amenities such as cleanliness, public convenience, drinking water, ease of access for tourists, signage, and so on, as well as advanced amenities such as TFC, souvenir shop, cafeteria, and so on.
Monument Mitra: Tourist amenities will be developed at heritage sites by the government, private sector companies, and individuals. They would rename themselves ‘Monument Mitra’ and adopt the sites as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

What are the issues?

The current plan ignores the ASI mandate: The current plan also ignores the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) mandate and abandons The Sarnath Initiative, which was developed by the ASI, the Getty Trust in the United States, the British Museum, and the National Culture Fund to safeguard excavated objects and present them to visitors in an engaging manner.
Undermine local communities and their relationships with historical sites: Guided tours led by employees of large corporations that have been granted permission to adopt a monument may jeopardise the livelihoods of those who have lived near the site and made a living by entertaining visitors with stories from its colourful past.
Excessive wear and tear: The possibility of large corporations underwriting a monument’s illumination is also concerning. Night tourism will also drain power from rural homes and hospitals.
It may change the historical character of monuments that are not protected by the ASI: Some monuments chosen for the scheme are not protected by the ASI and are located in states without Archaeology Directorates. Businesses that sign agreements with the Union Ministry of Culture to adopt these monuments, one fears, will be able to change their historical character without much opposition.

What could Corporate India do instead to protect the nation’s built heritage?

Businesses can assist citizens in understanding why monuments are important: This can be accomplished by allocating CSR funds to grants for researching, writing, and publishing high-quality textbooks, as well as developing innovative and effective methods of teaching history.
For example, corporations could follow in the footsteps of Sudha Murthy and N.R. Narayana Murthy by donating to organisations like the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune to help them continue their missions of writing history by rationally coordinating the textual record and archaeological evidence.
Skilled conservation: By looking within, industrial houses can help to support the meaningful conservation of heritage buildings. Their CSR funds can be used to buy new equipment that emits fewer noxious gases that darken and corrode marble buildings and discharges fewer effluents into rivers, making these bodies of water less likely to serve as breeding grounds for microbes that cling to the walls of ancient buildings built on riverbanks and cause their decay.
For example, in the past, Tata Sons, ONGC, and other companies have regularly donated funds to organisations that train people in critical restoration skills and create jobs for them.
Collaborative efforts: The resources and expertise of the private sector may also assist the ASI and State Archaeology Directorates in protecting monuments from dams, mining projects, defacement, and looting.

Climate change: Significant threat to India’s historical monuments

Sanchi Stupa: The 3rd-century BC Buddhist monument in Madhya Pradesh is under threat from rising humidity and rainfall. The stone is deteriorating due to the changes in weather patterns, leading to the loss of carvings and sculptures.
The 7th-century rock-cut monuments of Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu are under threat from sea-level rise and erosion. The monuments, which are near the water’s edge, are being battered by the waves, resulting in the loss of sculptures and carvings.
The Sun Temple in Konark, built in the 13th century of Khondalite stone, is under threat from rising temperatures and humidity. The stone is expanding and contracting due to the changes in temperature, leading to cracks and erosion.
Heavy rainfall and flooding are threatening the 14th-century Hampi monuments in Karnataka. The granite monuments are being eroded by rainwater, resulting in the loss of carvings and sculptures.
Murals in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati: Shekhawati is famous for its intricately painted havelis with frescoes and murals. Temperature fluctuations are causing Shekhawati’s murals to peel away.
Ladakh’s stucco houses are crumbling as a result of increased rainfall. Climate change is threatening the traditional way of building houses in Ladakh, reducing the durability of the structures.
The Taj Mahal, a 17th-century monument, is under threat from rising pollution and changing weather patterns. Because of air pollution, the white marble is turning yellow.
Maharashtra’s sea forts: Rising sea levels are causing water to percolate into forts along the state’s coast. Their foundations are eroding due to salination.

@the end

India’s progress in various fields is currently being projected at G-20 events across the country. Businesses, government agencies, and civil society organisations can demonstrate India’s genuine progress in this arena by embracing forward-thinking principles of historical preservation. Perhaps their efforts will inspire more citizens to join the critical task of preserving India’s pluralistic heritage.

Source: https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2020-08/adopt%20a%20Heritage%20Project%20Guidelines.pdf

International Relations

Multilateralism and Indian Diplomacy at the G20

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 2, 2023

The inability of the G20 finance ministers to reach an agreement on a joint statement last week highlights an important aspect of multilateralism. When great powers are at peace with one another, multilateralism has a good chance of succeeding; when they are at odds, the room for global cooperation shrinks.

Multilateralism

Multilateralism is a strategy in which multiple countries or parties collaborate to address and solve common problems through negotiations and cooperation while respecting each other’s sovereignty and interests.
In international relations, multilateralism can take different forms, such as multilateral agreements, treaties, and organisations.
The United Nations (UN) is an example of a multilateral organisation that brings nearly all countries together to promote peace, development, and cooperation.

Multilateralism and Major Powers: From Cooperation to Conflict

The Cold War and Multilateralism:

Lack of cooperation during the Cold War, except in a few areas such as nuclear arms control
The formation of the UN after the Second World War with the expectation of great power cooperation.
Allies are becoming adversaries, and the world is being divided into competing economic and military blocs.

Following the Cold War Multilateralism

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 ushered in a new era of multilateralism.
Cooperation among great powers at the UN and the establishment of the WTO
The 2008 financial crisis and the rallying of the world’s top 20 economies to stabilise the global economy.

Multilateralism’s Current Situation

There is no longer a world of shared interests among top nations.
Simmering political conflict between Russia and the West; military conflict between the United States and China.
The G20 is currently unable to reach agreement on key issues.
Rising geopolitical conflict is reflected in the economic domain.
Attempts by the United States and China to reduce their massive economic exposure to one another
Economic conflict enveloping emerging technologies, especially in the digital domain.

In the midst of the Great Power Conflict, India’s Multilateral Diplomacy

G20 and multilateralism: As the current G20 chair in 2023, India must steer the group amid renewed rivalry among the major powers. Reducing the influence of political conflicts on the G20 would be a diplomatic coup for India.
Delhi’s Difficult Relationship with Beijing: India is a major power rivalry with China. The conflict is about more than just military assertiveness; it is also about deep disagreements on multilateral issues.
China Must Be Balanced: India cannot remain neutral in the great power conflict while representing the Global South at the G20. In various multilateral forums, India must strike a balance between cooperation and competition with China.
Participation of India in Several Multilateral Institutions: India’s approach to multilateralism has evolved from a focus on the UN and NAM to participation in several institutions, including the Quad and the G7. It is also working to fortify its alliance with the Global South.

@the end

The diversity of India’s multilateralism reflects the structural imperatives of global politics. While grappling with rivals and collaborating with like-minded countries, Delhi must work with adversaries to solve regional and global problems. The balance of cooperation and competition is determined by the issue and context.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/c-raja-mohan-writes-cooperation-amid-conflict-is-indias-burden-for-g20-8472106/

Science & Tech

CV Raman and National Science Day

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 1, 2023

Every year on February 28th, National Science Day is observed to commemorate Sir CV Raman’s bird anniversary.
To commemorate the announcement of the discovery of the “Raman Effect,” the Government of India designated February 28 as National Science Day in 1986, under then-Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
The Raman Effect was the discovery that earned Sir CV Raman the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.

CV Raman

Raman carried out his Nobel Prize-winning research at the IACS in Calcutta.
While he was educated entirely in India, Raman visited London for the first time in 1921, where physicists such as JJ Thomson and Lord Rutherford were aware of his reputation in the study of optics and acoustics.
In 1930, Sir CV Raman received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his discovery of the Raman Effect.
The American Chemical Society (ACS) and the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science jointly designated it as an International Historic Chemical Landmark (IACS).
His expertise was in the vibrations and sounds of stringed instruments like the Indian veena and tambura, as well as Indian percussion instruments like the tabla and mridangam.

The Raman Effect

In 1928, Raman discovered that when a stream of light passes through a liquid, a fraction of the light scattered by the liquid is of a different colour.
Raman began to consider the colour of the deep blue Mediterranean while returning from London on a 15-day voyage.
He wasn’t convinced by the explanation that the colour of the sea was blue because of sky reflection.
As the ship approached Bombay, he wrote a letter to the editor of the journal Nature, outlining his thoughts on the situation.
Raman was then able to demonstrate that the blue colour of the water was caused by the scattering of sunlight by water molecules.
He had become obsessed with the phenomenon of light scattering by this point.
By this time he was obsessed with the phenomenon of light scattering.

Observing the effect

The Raman Effect occurs when the change in energy of light is influenced by the vibrations of the molecule or material under study, resulting in a change in wavelength.
It is worth noting that the Raman effect is “very weak” — this is because when the object in question is small (less than a few nanometres), light passes through it unaffected.
However, light waves may interact with the particle a few times in a billion. This may also explain why it was not discovered previously.
Light can be reflected, refracted, or transmitted when it interacts with an object.
When light is scattered, scientists examine whether the particle with which it interacts has the ability to change its energy.

Real-world Applications

Raman spectroscopy is used in a wide range of applications, including non-destructive, microscopic, chemical analysis, and imaging.
Whether the goal is qualitative or quantitative data, Raman analysis can quickly and easily provide key information.
It can quickly determine the chemical composition and structure of a sample, whether solid, liquid, gas, gel, slurry, or powder.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/national-science-day-2023-history-purpose-and-role-of-cv-raman/articleshow/98298238.cms

Science & Tech

New lab testing setup for organs on a chip

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 1, 2023

Organ-on-a-chip technology has emerged as a new laboratory setup that scientists are using to test new drugs instead of animals.

What exactly is Organ-on-a-Chip?

A microfluidic device that aims to mimic the structure and function of specific human organs or tissues in vitro is known as an organ-on-a-chip.
It is a small, transparent chip that contains tiny channels lined with living cells and is made of biocompatible materials such as silicon, glass, or polymers.
The living cells are derived from human tissues and can be cultured to mimic the microenvironment of the organ being modelled.

How does Organ-on-a-Chip function?

Simulation of microfluidic channels: Each organ-on-a-chip contains a complex network of microfluidic channels and chambers that can simulate a specific organ’s mechanical and chemical environment.
Microfluidic channels can simulate the flow of blood and air, while living cells provide a realistic environment for drug testing and disease modelling.

Potential Organ-on-a-Chip Applications

The technology of organs-on-a-chip has numerous potential applications, including drug development, disease modelling, and toxicity testing.
Researchers can study how human organs interact with drugs and other compounds by replicating their structure and function.
This could pave the way for more effective and personalised treatments for a wide range of diseases.
Furthermore, organ-on-a-chip technology offers a more ethical and effective method of testing drugs and other compounds, reducing the need for animal testing.

Organ-on-a-Chip Examples

There have been several examples of organ-on-a-chip technology developed, including-
The air-blood interface in the lungs is mimicked by the lung-on-a-chip.
The mechanical and electrical properties of the heart are emulated by a heart-on-a-chip.
The metabolic activity of the liver is replicated by the liver-on-a-chip.
The blood-brain barrier and neural activity in the brain are modelled on a chip.

Prospects for the Future

Organ-on-a-chip technology is a promising and rapidly developing field with numerous advantages over traditional drug development and testing methods.
It offers a more ethical and effective method of testing drugs and other compounds, reducing the need for animal testing.
Furthermore, it has the potential to transform the field of drug development by allowing for more personalised and effective treatments for a wide range of diseases.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/organ-on-a-chip-the-new-lab-setup-scientists-are-using-instead-of-animals-to-test-new-drugs/article66556008.ece

Security Issues

SC raps govt on plea on ED chief’s term

Post author By balancedreport
Post date March 1, 2023

The Supreme Court has reacted angrily to the government’s decision to grant tenure extensions to the Director of the Enforcement Directorate in order to obstruct ongoing investigations against their leaders.

What exactly is the Enforcement Directorate (ED)?

The ED was established in 1957 to investigate cases of civil foreign exchange violations.
It all started on May 1, 1956, with the formation of a ‘Enforcement Unit’ within the Department of Economic Affairs.
The ED is now part of the Finance Ministry’s Department of Revenue.
However, following the implementation of the PMLA in 2002, it began investigating criminal cases of financial fraud and money laundering.
It was then tasked with dealing with violations of Exchange Control Laws under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA).
Today, it is a multifaceted organisation that investigates economic crimes :
- Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
- Fugitive Economic Offenders Act
- Foreign Exchange Management Act
- Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA)

Its establishment

When the proceeds of crime (property/money) are generated, the best way to save that money is to park it somewhere where no one in the country can question you.
As a result, there was a need to control and prevent money laundering.
The PMLA was introduced in 2002 for this very reason, but it was not passed until 2005.
The goal was to prevent money from being parked outside of India and to trace the layering and trail of money.
So, according to the Act, the ED has the authority to investigate under Sections 48 (authorities under the Act) and 49. (appointment and powers of authorities and other officers).

When a crime is committed, when does the ED intervene?

When a local police station registers an offence with proceeds of crime exceeding one crore, the investigating officer forwards the information to the ED.
Alternatively, if the Central Agency becomes aware of the offence, they can request the First Information Report (FIR) or the chargesheet if it has been filed directly by police officials.
This will be done to determine if any laundering has occurred.

What differentiates the probe between the local police and officers of the ED?

Case study:

If a theft occurs in a nationalised bank, the local police station will first look into the matter.
If it is discovered that the bank’s founder took all of the money and kept it in his home without spending or using it, the crime is only theft, and the ED will not intervene because the money has already been seized.
However, if the stolen money is used to purchase property after four years, the ill-gotten money is returned to the market.
If the money is given to someone else to buy properties in different parts of the country, this is considered money laundering.
As a result, the ED will need to intervene and investigate the layering and attachment of properties in order to recover the funds.
If one crore in jewellery is stolen, police officers will investigate the theft. The ED, on the other hand, will seize the accused’s assets in order to recover the sum of one crore.

The ED’s roles and functions

Summoning, searching, and seizing: The ED conducts searches (property) and seizures (money/documents) after determining that the money has been laundered, in accordance with Sections 16 (power of survey) and 17 (search and seizure) of the PMLA.
Arrest and detentions: On the basis of that, the authorities will decide if an arrest is needed as per Section 19 (power of arrest).
Attachment of property: Under Section 50, the ED may also conduct a search and seizure without summoning the individual for questioning. It is not necessary to summon the individual first and then begin the search and seizure.
Filing of chargesheet: If the person is arrested, the ED has 60 days to file the prosecution complaint (chargesheet) because the maximum sentence under the PMLA is seven years.

Our debate is centred on: Investigation Agencies’ Excessive Reach

Why does ED appear in pictures so frequently?

Ans. Money laundering

Money laundering is the process of making large sums of money obtained through illegal means, such as drug trafficking or terrorist funding, appear to have come from a legitimate source.
As a result, money launderers have an incentive to “legitimise” their ill-gotten gains through money laundering.
The money made is known as ‘dirty money,’ and money laundering is the process of converting ‘dirty money’ into ‘legitimate’ money.

Why does ED primarily affect politicians?

Bringing corruption to light: It is not always ironic to say that most politicians are never corrupt. We have a long history of political corruption.
Selective witch-hunting: The ED has frequently been chastised for conducting investigations, raiding, and questioning opposition party leaders, whether under the current regime or previous governments.

Problems with PMLA

Misuse of central agencies: The Enforcement Directorate is drawing the PMLA into the investigation of even minor crimes.
Asset seizure: The assets of genuine victims have been attached. The ED could walk into anyone’s home.
Politically motivated raids: In the midst of all of this, the PMLA’s primary goal of investigating the conversion of “illegitimate money into legitimate money” was lost.
Petitioners pointed out that even the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), which is an equivalent of the FIR, is considered a “internal document” and is not provided to the accused.
Vagueness in evidence: The accused is required to make statements that are considered admissible in evidence.
Harassment: The ED begins summoning accused persons and requests information on all of their financial transactions and family members.
Against individual liberty: The initiation of an investigation by the ED has the potential to restrict an individual’s liberty.

Allegations levelled against ED

Huge latitude: The ED is the only Central Agency in the country that does not need permission from the government to summon or prosecute politicians or government functionaries for economic crimes such as money laundering.
PMLA is being used to investigate even “ordinary” crimes, and the assets of genuine victims have been attached.
Rights Violations: The PMLA was enacted in response to India’s global commitment to combat money laundering. Rights have been “cribbed, cabined, and confined” instead.
Functional obscurity: There is also a lack of transparency regarding the ED’s selection of cases to investigate. We frequently see the ED unexpectedly raiding opposition party headquarters.
Poor conviction rate: We have barely read the ED’s conclusion of cases. Meanwhile, the media-trial erodes the accused’s credibility, which is the desired outcome.
Undertrials and slower prosecution: The ED has prioritised keeping the accused in custody over proving the charges against them.

ED’s Challenges

The ED being hauled to court: The petitions against the ED slowed down the investigations because officers had to defend themselves in court.
Politicians who cry foul: There are attempts to conceal unexplained, high-value transactions that fall under the purview of the PMLA.
Foreign transaction investigation: The most difficult challenge they face is obtaining information on accounts and money stashed abroad in order to establish a trail.

Way ahead

The fight against corruption is inextricably linked to investigation reform.
As a result, the adjudicating authorities must work together to ensure the highest levels of transparency and fairness.
The ED has been balancing its integrity by speeding up investigations and court procedures.
The need of the hour may be systemic fixes rather than shrill calls to throw out the baby with the bathwater.
Corruption is unlikely to be significantly reduced unless government agencies change their operations.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/sc-tells-govt-that-challenge-before-it-to-ed-directors-piecemeal-tenure-extensions-is-not-about-politics/article66559165.ece