Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Forex Swap
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- As a $5 billion forex swap between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and banks approaches maturity, it signifies the central bank’s strategic move to manage liquidity and mitigate inflationary pressures.
What is RBI’s Forex Swap?
- Forex Tool: The Dollar–Rupee Swap is a forex tool employed by the RBI to exchange its currency with banks for another currency.
- Buy/Sell Swap: It involves two variants: Dollar–Rupee Buy/Sell Swap, where the RBI buys dollars from banks in exchange for Indian Rupees, and then commits to selling the dollars back at a later date.
- Sell/Buy Swap: Conversely, the RBI may sell dollars, thereby withdrawing an equivalent sum in rupees, reducing liquidity in the financial system.
- Risk Mitigation: These swap operations are characterized by predetermined transaction terms, eliminating exchange rate and market risks.
The Strategy behind
- USD 5 Billion Swap: The RBI initiated a USD 5.135 billion swap with banks and aims to repurchase the dollars at the lowest possible premium after a two-year tenor.
- Lower Range Bids: Banks bidding at the lower end of the premium range are more likely to succeed in the auction.
Rationale for RBI’s Action
- Surplus Liquidity: The Indian financial system currently experiences surplus liquidity, amounting to Rs 7.5 lakh crore, necessitating measures to curb potential inflation.
- Traditional Tools: Traditional methods like increasing the repo rate or Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) can negatively impact the economy and may not lead to complete transmission of monetary policy.
- Previous Toolkit: The RBI used Variable Rate Reverse Repo Auction (VRRR) but encountered under-subscription due to better yields in the cash market.
- Longer-Term Strategy: As a result, the RBI opted for forex auctions as a longer-term liquidity adjustment tool.
Impact of the Swap
- Liquidity Reduction: The primary effect is the reduction of liquidity, which currently stands at an average of Rs 7.6 lakh crore.
- Strengthening Rupee: Increased dollar inflow will strengthen the Indian Rupee, which has already appreciated against the US dollar.
- Inflation Control: The RBI typically tightens liquidity when inflation risks are elevated. Factors contributing to inflation include rising oil prices due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and foreign portfolio investors withdrawing funds from Indian stocks.
Conclusion
- The RBI’s forex swap strategy emerges as a strategic tool to manage liquidity, stabilize the currency, and control inflationary pressures.
- By reducing system liquidity and strengthening the rupee, the central bank aims to navigate the challenges posed by global events and ensure economic stability in India.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Edakkal Caves
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Kerala Tourism has launched a project to improve civic amenities around the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad, known for its rock art from prehistoric times.
About Edakkal Caves
- The Edakkal Caves are situated in the Wayanad district of Kerala on Ambukutty Mala, a prominent hill in the region
- It is not a typical cave but rather a natural cleft, rift, or rock shelter created by a piece of rock splitting away from the main body.
- It was discovered in 1890 by Fred Fawcett, a British police official.
- The caves are also known as “Ampukuthy Mala,” with a local belief that they were created by Rama’s sons, Lava and Kusha, who struck arrows on the mountain.
Significance of the caves
- Historical Significance: The caves are historically significant as they are situated near an ancient trade route connecting the high mountains of Mysore to the ports of the Malabar Coast.
- Pictorial Writings: Inside the Edakkal Caves, there are pictorial writings believed to date back to at least 6,000 BCE during the Neolithic period.
- Unique Stone Age Carvings: The Stone Age carvings are rare and represent the only known examples from South India, which belong to the Mesolithic era.
- Cultural Significance: The petroglyphs found include depictions of human and animal figures, tools used by humans, and enigmatic symbols yet to be deciphered, indicating a rich cultural and historical heritage.
- Indus Valley Connect: Some of the paintings found in the Edakkal Caves, particularly those of a “man with jar cup,” have led to speculation about a possible connection to the Indus Valley civilization.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Visa Shopping
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The practice of ‘visa shopping’ is on the rise across various Indian states, most notably in Punjab, where travel agencies facilitate this process.
Understanding Visa Shopping
- Definition: ‘Visa shopping’ entails obtaining visas for countries one may or may not intend to visit during the visa’s validity period.
- Purpose: Individuals opt for this practice to secure access to their preferred countries, especially in Europe, even if they possess visas for other European nations.
- Planning for the Future: Some acquire visas for countries they do not plan to visit immediately, strategically increasing their chances of obtaining visas for their desired destinations later, given the lengthy and uncertain visa application processes.
Exploiting the Schengen System
- Schengen Visa: This visa exemplifies ‘visa shopping’ as it offers a unique opportunity to explore multiple European countries without the need for separate visas.
- Schengen Agreement: Established in 1985, the Schengen system allows free movement between member countries, comprising over 24 nations, sans border controls.
- Single Visa, Multiple Countries: Obtaining a Schengen Visa from one of its member countries, such as Germany, France, or Italy, grants entry into the entire Schengen region.
Case Scenarios
- Easier Application Process: Many applicants prefer to secure a Schengen Visa from a country with a more straightforward application process.
- Success Stories: Instances include individuals who, after facing rejection for a Spanish or German visa, obtained visas for other Schengen nations, enabling them to reach their intended destinations.
Visa Shopping and Legal Issues
- Compliance with Norms: The practice is legal as long as travellers adhere to visa process norms and obtain legitimate permission to stay in the country.
- Intent Matters: Legal complications arise when individuals seek visas for one country but actually intend to stay in another or use it merely as an entry point.
- Estonian Embassy’s Caution: The Embassy of Estonia in New Delhi cautioned against visa shopping, emphasizing that travellers must apply for a visa from the country where they plan the maximum stay.
Consequences of Suspected Visa Shopping
- Thorough Scrutiny: Embassies now conduct comprehensive checks of travel plans to detect visa shopping.
- Potential Consequences: Suspected individuals may face visa refusal, being offloaded from flights, or deportation from EU borders.
- Official Suspicion: Repeated engagement in visa shopping can arouse suspicion among immigration officials, leading to potential problems during travel.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bidenomics
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The year 2024 is poised to be a momentous one for the global economy, marked by significant elections in some of the world’s largest economies, including India, Russia, the UK, the EU, and the US.
- “Bidenomics” is the nickname for the economic vision of President Joe Biden. It’s used to convey his administration’s economic gains, policies and plans.
Bidenomics and its Relevance
- Policy Shifts: The potential election outcome in the US could have far-reaching consequences, especially concerning ‘Bidenomics’—President Biden’s distinctive economic policy approach.
- Radical Departures: Trump’s policies diverged significantly from established US and global norms, with actions like withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and adopting protectionist trade policies against nations like China.
- Bidenomics: President Biden introduced a policy shift aimed at reversing decades of economic trends, emphasizing income equality and reducing the influence of big corporations.
- 3 major aspects of Bidenomics:
- Public Investments: Focus on smart investments in infrastructure and clean energy.
- Empowering Workers: Prioritizing workers’ rights and education to strengthen the middle class.
- Promoting Competition: Encouraging competition to reduce costs and foster small business growth.
Performance of Bidenomics
- Macro Indicators: On a macroeconomic level, Bidenomics has shown positive results, as indicated by GDP growth, unemployment rates, and inflation trends.
- GDP Growth: The US has outperformed major developed nations in terms of GDP growth, with a rapid post-pandemic recovery.
- Unemployment: Unemployment rates have decreased significantly under Biden’s leadership, with job creation outpacing the number of job seekers.
- Inflation: However, inflation spiked due to external factors but has since moderated.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bats and their ecological significance
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Bats, by many measures, are truly remarkable organisms.
- Their lives are notably extended, and they enjoy a unique defense against a range of diseases, including cancer.
Bats in Numbers
- Significant Population: Bats constitute a substantial part of the mammal world, making up 20% of all mammal species globally. The planet is home to over 1,400 bat species, each exhibiting its own unique characteristics.
- Diverse Characteristics: Bats exhibit a wide range of sizes, from the tiny 2-gram bumblebee bat to the formidable flying foxes, boasting a 1.5-meter wingspan and weighing up to 1.6 kg.
- Ecological Importance: Bats play pivotal roles in maintaining ecological balance by contributing to essential processes such as pollination and insect population control.
Bats as Virus Reservoirs
- Notorious Reputation: Bats have come under scrutiny primarily due to their role as hosts for various deadly viruses, including coronaviruses, Nipah, Ebola, Marburg virus, and Hendra virus.
- COVID-19 Spotlight: The COVID-19 pandemic has thrust bats into the spotlight, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health.
- Natural Pathogen Hosts: Bats are unique in their ability to harbour numerous pathogens without falling victim to infections, sparking scientific interest in understanding the source of their resistance.
Unlocking Bat Genomes
- Genomic Exploration: Scientists have embarked on comprehensive studies of bat genomes, revealing invaluable insights into their distinctive biology.
- Compact Genomes: Bats boast relatively small genomes, typically consisting of around 2 billion bases, making them ideal subjects for genomic research.
- Metagenomic Sequencing: The ambitious Bat1K global genome consortium is currently undertaking the task of sequencing genomes of all bat species worldwide, promising further revelations about their genetic makeup.
Immune Insights from Bat Genomes
- Crucial Immune Genes: The immune-related genes of bats have been a major focus of research, with these creatures exhibiting unique genomic features.
- Reduced Immune Genes: Bats possess a smaller percentage of immune-related genes, approximately 2.7-3.5% compared to humans, who have around 7%.
- Positive Selection: Certain immune genes in bats have undergone positive selection, equipping them to control the spread of viruses while mitigating the inflammatory responses that often prove detrimental to humans.
Long-Read Sequencing and Deeper Insights
- Sequencing Advancements: Long-read sequencing technologies have revolutionized our ability to assemble complete genomes quickly and accurately.
- Immune Response Alterations: Recent research employing long-read technology has revealed significant changes in genes responsible for immune responses in bats.
- Interferon Dynamics: There has been a shift in the relative proportions of interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and interferon-omega (IFN-ω) in bats, impacting their immune properties.
- Tumor Suppression and Longevity: Genes linked to tumor suppression and DNA repair in bats exhibit signs of positive selection, contributing to their extended lifespans and reduced cancer risk.
Future Prospects
- Emerging Zoonotic Threats: The ongoing processes of deforestation, ecological degradation, and heightened human-animal interactions are anticipated to result in more frequent zoonotic disease outbreaks.
- Genomic Tools: Advanced genome sequencing techniques hold the promise of aiding in the management of these outbreaks while preserving ecological balance, providing insights without disrupting the delicate equilibrium of nature.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Siena Galaxy Atlas
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Siena Galaxy Atlas (SGA) is an impressive digital collection showcasing approximately 400,000 galaxies located in the vicinity of our Milky Way.
Siena Galaxy Atlas
- The SGA was created by amalgamating data from 3 distinct astronomical surveys conducted between 2014 and 2017.
- These surveys took place at two observatories, namely the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) and the Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO).
- These surveys are collectively known as the DESI Legacy Surveys, laid the foundation for the SGA.
Purpose of this Cosmic Atlas
- Cosmic atlases like the SGA play a crucial role in enabling astronomers to discern intricate patterns within the universe.
- They assist in categorizing various celestial phenomena, including transient stars, and identifying objects that merit further in-depth studies.
- The SGA excels in terms of precision and accuracy, ensuring that it remains aligned with the latest astronomical revelations.
- It facilitates investigations into the birth and evolution of galaxies, the distribution of mysterious dark matter, and the transmission of gravitational waves throughout space.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Alupa Dynasty Inscription
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- An eminent archaeologist made a remarkable discovery during an archaeological expedition near Mangaluru.
- They uncovered a rare inscription linked to the Alupa dynasty, shedding new light on the region’s historical tapestry.
About Alupa Dynasty
- Alupa Dynasty: The inscription marks the first recorded mention of the Alupa dynasty, a historically significant ruling lineage of the region of Tulu Nadu.
- Regal Demise: Notably, the inscription commemorates the death of an Alupa king, providing a unique glimpse into this ancient dynasty’s history.
- Siri Cult References: The inscription also contains terms related to the Siri cult, including Siri, Dalya, and Chattara (Chatra), hinting at cultural and religious practices of the era.
Archaeological Findings
- Keerthi Sthamba: The inscription highlights the role of Kesava in erecting a monument dedicated to Kulashekara Alupendra. A Keerthi sthamba, a pillar, found within the inscription mirrors an original pillar located in Kulashekara, a suburb of Mangaluru.
- Intricate Details: The inscription features two panels at the top, with a Kannada script below, showcasing 12th-century characters and announcing the death of Alupendra I.
- Royal Depictions: Human figures within the inscription represent Kulashekara Alupendra. One panel portrays him in a Tribhanga posture, wielding a sword and holding a gurani (shield). Adjacent to it, the king is depicted seated in a meditative pose, resting his palms on his legs.
Significance in Tuluva History
- Tuluva Culture: This discovery provides valuable insights into the customs, beliefs, and societal structure of the Alupa dynasty’s time.
- Soma Cult: The Soma cult, established by Soma Sharma in the 11th century AD in Gujarat, finds a connection to this region. The Someshwara temple, built in honor of Soma during Kulashekara Alupendra’s reign, stands as a testament to this cultural fusion.
Who was Kulashekara Alupendra?
- The Alupa Legacy: Kulashekara Alupendra I, a prominent ruler of the Alupas in South Canara, played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history.
- City Establishment: He founded the city of Kulashekara in Mangaluru and enacted stringent regulations for temple administration, which continue to influence temple governance in the region.
- Language and Culture: Alupendra I was a patron of the Tulu language and culture, contributing to their preservation and promotion. His reign spanned from 1156 to 1215 A.D., with this inscription datable to the 12th century based on palaeography.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Types of Questions in Parliament
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A Parliamentarian is being questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee, in her alleged involvement in ‘cash for query’ allegations.
- This has thrust the spotlight on the importance and procedure of asking questions in the Lok Sabha.
Procedure for Raising Questions
- Rules and Directions: The process of raising questions is governed by Rules 32 to 54 of the “Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha” and Directions 10 to 18 issued by the Speaker, Lok Sabha.
- Notice Submission: MPs initiate the process by submitting a notice addressed to the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha, specifying the question’s text, the relevant Minister, desired answer date, and order of preference if multiple questions are tabled.
- Limitations: MPs are allowed to submit a maximum of five notices for oral and written answers combined, per day, with any excess notices considered for the subsequent session days.
- Notice Period: The notice period for a question is usually not less than 15 days.
- Submission Modes: MPs can submit notices through the online ‘Member’s Portal’ using their login credentials or physical forms available in the Parliamentary Notice Office.
Conditions for Admissibility of Questions
- Admissibility Rules: Various rules govern the admissibility of questions, such as a limit of 150 words, prohibition of arguments or defamatory statements, avoidance of character or conduct references except in official capacity, and disallowance of policy-related queries.
- Legal Matters: Questions concerning subjects under court consideration or those that may compromise national unity and integrity are inadmissible.
Types of Questions
- Starred Questions: MPs pose starred questions for oral responses from the Minister-in-charge. These questions require submission at least 15 days in advance, with a maximum of 20 listed for oral answers each day.
- Unstarred Questions: Unstarred questions receive written replies from the Ministry and must also be submitted 15 days ahead. A daily limit of 230 unanswered questions for written answers exists.
- Short Notice Questions: Pertaining to urgent public concerns, these questions can be asked with less than 10 days’ notice, accompanied by a valid reason.
- Questions to Private Members: Addressed to the MP themselves, these are posed when the subject relates to bills, resolutions, or House-related matters under that MP’s responsibility.
Importance of Raising Questions
- Parliamentary Right: MPs have an inherent and unrestricted parliamentary right to raise questions, serving as a legislative control mechanism over executive actions.
- Information and Critique: Questions help obtain administration and government activity details, critique government policies, expose lapses, and prompt ministers to take corrective actions.
- Government Feedback: For the government, questions gauge public sentiment towards policies, and administration, and can lead to parliamentary commissions, inquiries, or legislative actions in response.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Durga Puja
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India is joyously celebrating the festival of Navratri and Durga Puja.
- While this festival holds deep religious significance, its roots in modern times are intertwined with the colonial era.
Robert Clive and the Mythical Beginning
- Multiple Origin Stories: Durga Puja has various origin stories, with one popular tale linked to the aftermath of the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
- Robert Clive’s Role: Following his victory over Nawab Siraj ud Daula, Robert Clive wished to express gratitude to God. In the absence of a church, Nabakishan Deb, Clive’s Persian translator, suggested offering prayers to Goddess Durga. This marked the initiation of Calcutta’s first Durga Puja.
- Historical Scrutiny: While this narrative is widely known, historical records raise doubts about its accuracy. Nevertheless, it symbolizes the social beginnings of Durga Puja in Calcutta, driven by the connections between Bengali zamindars, merchants, and the East India Company.
Sociological Changes under Colonial Rule
- Rise of Zamindars: With the decline of the Mughal Empire, Bengal’s zamindars, hereditary landowners, gained authority, effectively governing their territories. The Permanent Settlement Act of 1793 formalized their role as intermediaries.
- Emergence of Prosperous Merchants: Calcutta, as a growing urban center, witnessed the swift rise of affluent Bengali merchants during Company rule. Economic opportunities led to rapid wealth accumulation by families like the Tagores and the Mullicks.
- Conspicuous Consumption: Durga Puja became a platform for the nouveau riche to flaunt their affluence. Lavish celebrations, gold-adorned idols, and entertainment from nautch girls characterized these grand events, fostering competition among rival families.
Durga Puja Takes a Nationalistic Turn
- Late 19th-Century Nationalism: In the late 19th century, feelings of nationalism began to surge among the Bengali intelligentsia. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s “Ananda Math,” published in 1882, popularized the phrase “Bande Mataram” and introduced the concept of the “mother” nation.
- Durga as a Symbol: Goddess Durga, revered as “Ma” (mother) Durga, came to symbolize the nation and its potential saviour from foreign rule. Durga Puja became an integral part of the burgeoning nationalist movement.
- Response to Partition: Lord Curzon’s decision to Partition Bengal in 1905 fueled the Swadeshi Movement, with “Bande Mataram” as its rallying cry. Communal festivities, including Durga Puja, played a pivotal role in forging collective consciousness and action.
- Swadeshi Symbolism: Durga Puja underwent a transformation during this period, with advertisements promoting indigenous products and festivities emphasizing indigenous values. British elites became less welcome at the pujas, reflecting a growing sense of nationalism.
Shift towards Public Celebrations
- 1920s Transformation: In the 1920s, public Durga Pujas emerged, marking a shift from exclusive festivals for the wealthy elite to inclusive celebrations for all. The first “sarbojanin” or “universal” Puja was organized in 1926 in Calcutta’s Maniktala area.
- Inclusive Tradition: These public Pujas, organized by locality, welcomed people regardless of their caste or residence. Temporary temples, known as pandals, sprung up in public spaces, making the festivities accessible to a broader audience.
Conclusion
- The evolution of Durga Puja, from its colonial-era origins to a celebration of nationalism and inclusivity, reflects the dynamic nature of culture and society.
- It has transformed from an occasion for the elite to showcase wealth to a festival that unites people across backgrounds, embracing unity in diversity.
- Durga Puja continues to be a cherished tradition that weaves together history, culture, and the essence of Bengal.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pamir Knot, Tectonic Plates
Mains level: Earthquakes
Central Idea
- On October 15, Afghanistan was struck by a formidable earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3, adding to the woes of a nation still reeling from a series of devastating quakes just days earlier.
- This recent seismic activity reflects Afghanistan’s turbulent history of earthquakes, often with catastrophic consequences.
Understanding Earthquakes
- Tectonic Plate Movement: The Earth’s lithosphere consists of tectonic plates that move due to internal heat energy. Fault lines are formed along the discontinuities where these plates interact.
- Earthquake Mechanism: Earthquakes occur when these lithospheric plates suddenly slip past one another, releasing energy that propagates as seismic waves. The point where the slip starts is known as the focus or hypocenter, with the epicenter being its surface projection.
What exactly causes Earthquakes?
- As we know, the earth’s outermost surface, crust, is fragmented into tectonic plates.
- The edges of the plates are called plate boundaries, which are made up of faults.
- The tectonic plates constantly move at a slow pace, sliding past one another and bumping into each other.
- As the edges of the plates are quite rough, they get stuck with one another while the rest of the plate keeps moving.
- Earthquake occurs when the plate has moved far enough and the edges unstick on one of the faults.
- The location below the earth’s surface where the earthquake starts are called the hypocenter, and the location directly above it on the surface of the earth is called the epicentre.
Afghanistan’s Seismic Vulnerability
- Tectonic Plate Intersection: Afghanistan’s location atop the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates results in frequent seismic activity.
- Eurasian Plate: Afghanistan sits on the Eurasian Plate, with the Arabian Plate subducting northward in the west and the Indian Plate doing the same in the east.
- Complex Geology: The Hindu Kush mountain range and the Pamir Knot add complexity to this geological region, leading to folding, faulting, and earthquakes.
- Continual Compression: The northward movement of the Indian Plate toward Eurasia causes compression, uplifting the Himalayas, and transmitting tectonic stress. This leads to crustal deformation, faulting, and seismic activity.
- Active Fault Systems: Afghanistan is intersected by active fault systems like the Chaman Fault and the Main Pamir Thrust, which are prolific sources of earthquakes.
History of Earthquake Afghanistan
- October 11 Quakes: In October 2023, a series of powerful earthquakes, including a magnitude 6.3 tremor, wreaked havoc in Herat province, claiming the lives of at least a thousand people.
- June 2022 Tragedy: A magnitude 6.1 earthquake in Khost and Paktika provinces in June 2022 left over 1,000 casualties.
- 2015 Catastrophe: A major earthquake in northeastern Afghanistan in 2015 claimed over 200 lives in Afghanistan and northern Pakistan.
- 2002 Devastation: A 6.1-magnitude earthquake in 2002 resulted in approximately 1,000 casualties in northern Afghanistan.
- 1998 Disaster: In 1998, northeast Afghanistan experienced a catastrophic earthquake and subsequent tremors, causing the loss of at least 4,500 lives.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: TV-D1 Mission
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- ISRO detailed about Gaganyaan mission’s Test Vehicle-Demonstration 1 (TV-D1) Mission which is scheduled for tomorrow.
- TV-D1 will demonstrate the performance of the crew escape system.
Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission
- Objective: The mission involves launching a rocket to an altitude of approximately 17 km, followed by a simulated abort signal, resulting in the separation of the crew module.
- Safety Test: The crew module will descend safely using a parachute, ultimately splashing down in the Bay of Bengal.
- Duration: This comprehensive test mission is scheduled to last 532 seconds, from liftoff at 8 am to the crew module’s splashdown, situated about 10 km from the Sriharikota coast.
- Empty Module: It’s important to note that the crew module will remain uncrewed during this test.
What will be tested?
- New Test Vehicle: This mission introduces the new Test Vehicle, aptly named Test Vehicle-Demonstration 1 (TV-D1), and designed specifically for testing systems and procedures.
- Crew Module Functionality: A basic version of the crew module, the capsule in which astronauts will eventually journey into space, will be tested for functions such as mid-flight emergency crew module separation and astronaut escape.
- Technical Terminology: ISRO’s technical definition of the mission is “In-flight Abort Demonstration of Crew Escape System (CES),” which simulates abort conditions during ascent corresponding to a Mach number of 1.2, a critical aspect of the Gaganyaan mission.
About the New Test Vehicle
- Cost-Effective Testing: The TV-D1 mission employs a low-cost Test Vehicle, optimized for system testing, instead of the more expensive GSLV Mk III rocket used in previous tests.
- Innovations: It uses existing liquid propulsion technology but includes innovations such as the throttleable and restartable L110 Vikas engine.
Key Feature: Crew Escape System
- Safety Precedence: The TV-D1 mission underscores ISRO’s unwavering commitment to astronaut safety, particularly in emergencies.
- Environmental Control Systems: ISRO is actively developing environmental control and life support systems for the crew module.
- Integrated Vehicle Health Management: The program includes an integrated system to monitor the vehicle’s health and initiate mission-abort procedures when necessary.
- Testing Milestones: Some of these systems were previously assessed in the Crew module Atmospheric Re-Entry Experiment (CARE) and the Pad Abort Test-PAT in 2018.
Stages of TV-D1 Mission
- Critical Phases: The mission involves key stages, including the separation of the Crew Escape System from the Test Vehicle and the subsequent separation of the crew module.
- Parachute Deployment: Parachutes will be deployed for a safe descent over approximately seven minutes.
- Navy’s Involvement: The Indian Navy will play a crucial role in recovering the crew module from the Bay of Bengal.
- Milestone Setting: The TV-D1 mission serves as a significant milestone, marking the integration of a near-complete system for flight testing.
Status of Preparations
- Unmanned Mission: An unmanned mission is scheduled for early next year, followed by abort missions, with the manned mission targeted for late 2024 or early 2025.
- Technical Readiness: The human-rated LVM 3 rocket has successfully undergone testing, and essential components such as solid rocket boosters and liquid propellant engines are ready.
- Training: Four astronauts from the Indian Air Force have undergone training in Russia and will receive further training to prepare for the final mission.
Conclusion
- ISRO’s relentless pursuit of space exploration reaches a pivotal juncture with the TV-D1 mission.
- As India inches closer to sending its astronauts into space, these planned tests and safety measures underscore ISRO’s commitment to ensuring a safe and successful Gaganyaan mission.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- PM Modi is set to inaugurate the first segment of India’s groundbreaking Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), a high-speed rail network aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.
Understanding the RRTS Project
- Integrated Mass Transit Network: The RRTS is an integrated mass transit network aimed at promoting balanced and sustainable urban development by enhancing connectivity and accessibility across the NCR.
- Origin of the Idea: The concept of RRTS emerged from a study commissioned to Indian Railways in 1998-99, envisioning fast commuter trains connecting various NCR locations.
- National Capital Region Planning: The National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) adopted the RRTS concept while developing its “Functional Plan on Transport for NCR-2032” and recommended eight RRTS corridors to connect NCR towns.
Development Agency
- Nodal Agency: NCRTC, a joint venture of the Central government, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, is responsible for building the RRTS, also known as “Namo Bharat.” It operates under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
- Scope of the Project: The RRTS project spans across the vast NCR, covering approximately 55,000 square kilometers and serving a population of over 46 crore with a combined GDP of an estimated $370 billion.
How RRTS differ from existing Systems?
- Impressive Speed: RRTS trains are designed to operate at speeds of 160 km/hour, with the capability to reach a maximum speed of 180 km/hour.
- Comparatively faster: In comparison, Delhi Metro trains typically operate at speeds of 100 km/hour to 120 km/hour.
- Coverage: Compared to existing metro systems, the RRTS offers higher speeds, making it ideal for covering relatively longer distances across the NCR swiftly.
- Frequency and Comfort: In contrast to Indian Railways, while RRTS covers shorter distances, it operates at higher frequencies and provides enhanced passenger comfort.
- International Models: The RRTS draws inspiration from successful international models like the RER in Paris, Regional-Express trains in Germany and Austria, and the SEPTA Regional Rail in the United States, among others.
Objectives of the RRTS Project
- Enhancing Connectivity: The RRTS aims to unlock the NCR’s potential by improving multi-modal connectivity at existing transportation hubs.
- Decongesting Roads and Rails: One of the primary goals is to encourage public transportation, thus alleviating congestion on roads, highways, metro, and railway networks.
- Economic Growth: By facilitating shorter travel times, the RRTS seeks to boost economic productivity in the region, allowing more economic activity to thrive around suburban locations in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana.
Corridors under the RRTS Project
- Eight Corridors: The RRTS project encompasses eight corridors, with three being developed under Phase I:
-
- Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut (82 km)
- Delhi-Gurugram-SNB-Alwar (164 km)
- Delhi-Panipat (103 km)
- Future Development: Future corridors include routes like Delhi – Faridabad – Ballabgarh – Palwal, Ghaziabad – Khurja, Delhi – Bahadurgarh – Rohtak, Ghaziabad-Hapur, and Delhi-Shahadra-Baraut.
- Sarai Kale Khan Hub: The RRTS station at Sarai Kale Khan will serve as the project’s central hub, connecting all three Phase I corridors, bridging the gap between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Minimum Support Prices (MSP)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has increased the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all Rabi crops for the financial year 2024-25.
Understanding MSP
- Policy Framework: MSP is a government policy designed to safeguard farmers’ income. Unlike subsidized grains in the Public Distribution System (PDS), it isn’t an entitlement but a part of administrative decision-making.
- MSP Commodities: The Centre currently fixes MSPs for 23 agricultural commodities, guided by recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
- No Legal Backing: There is currently NO statutory backing for these prices, nor any law mandating their enforcement.
Fixing MSPs
- Factors Considered: CACP considers multiple factors when recommending MSP for a commodity, notably the cost of cultivation.
- Key Determinants: These determinants encompass supply and demand dynamics, domestic and global market prices, parity with other crops, implications for consumers and the environment, and terms of trade between agriculture and non-agriculture sectors.
- 5 Times Formula: The 2018-19 Budget introduced a “pre-determined principle” where MSPs should be set at 1.5 times the production cost, simplifying CACP’s role to estimating production costs and applying the formula.
Production Cost Calculation
- Three Cost Categories: CACP calculates three production cost categories for each crop, at both state and all-India average levels.
- A2: Encompasses all paid-out costs directly incurred by the farmer, such as seeds, fertilizers, labor, land lease, fuel, and irrigation.
- A2+FL: Includes A2 and imputes a value for unpaid family labor.
- C2: A comprehensive cost accounting for rentals and forgone interest on owned land and capital assets in addition to A2+FL.
Back2Basics:
|
Rabi Crops |
Kharif Crops |
Zaid Crops |
| Growing Season |
Winter (sown in Oct-Dec) |
Monsoon (sown in Jun-Jul) |
Summer (sown in Feb-Apr) |
| Harvest Season |
Spring (harvested in Mar-Apr) |
Autumn (harvested in Oct-Nov) |
Early Autumn (harvested in May-Jun) |
| Examples |
Wheat, barley, peas, gram |
Rice, maize, cotton, soybean |
Cucumber, watermelon, muskmelon |
| Water Requirement |
Relies mainly on rainfall |
Relies on monsoon rains |
Requires irrigation and supplemental water |
| Temperature |
Grows in cooler temperatures |
Grows in warmer temperatures |
Grows in hot temperatures |
| Crop Rotation |
Often used in crop rotation |
Less commonly used in crop rotation |
Usually not part of crop rotation |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Olympic Games
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Prime Minister Modi recently confirmed India’s formal bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games, raising questions about the financial implications and benefits of hosting this prestigious event.
About Olympics
| Origins |
Began in ancient Greece in 776 BCE in Olympia. |
| Revival |
Revived by Pierre de Coubertin in 1896 in Athens, Greece. |
| Five Rings |
Olympic flag features five interlocking rings representing unity among 5 continents. |
| Olympic Motto |
“Citius, Altius, Fortius” (Faster, Higher, Stronger) reflects the pursuit of excellence. |
| Sports Included |
Features a diverse range of sports, from athletics and swimming to archery and gymnastics. |
| Discontinued Sports |
Some sports, like tug of war and live pigeon shooting, have been removed. |
Selecting the Olympics Host City
- International Olympic Committee (IOC) Decision: The host city is chosen by the International Olympic Committee members through a secret ballot, with the majority vote determining the winner.
- Competition and Diplomacy: Securing the opportunity to host the Olympics involves significant financial resources and diplomatic efforts. Typically, winners are announced 7-8 years before the event.
Cost of Hosting the Olympics
- Expensive Endeavor: Bidding for the Olympics is a costly proposition, with countries spending $50-100 million, even for unsuccessful bids. In case of a successful bid, the expenses can soar into billions of dollars.
- Examples of Expenditure: Tokyo spent $150 million for its failed 2016 bid and even more for the successful 2020 bid. Toronto refrained from bidding due to the $60 million cost for the 2024 bid.
- Infrastructure Investment: Hosting the Olympics entails building stadiums and enhancing infrastructure to accommodate athletes and tourists.
Funding the Olympics Expenses
- Local Government Responsibility: The majority of expenses, especially on infrastructure, are shouldered by the local government and are spread across the country’s budget.
- Borrowing for Cost Overruns: Countries often resort to borrowing to cover cost overruns. The IOC contributes some revenue to the host country, but it constitutes a relatively small amount, e.g., $1.5 billion for Rio De Janeiro in 2016.
Assessing the Worth of Hosting the Olympics
- Benefits of Hosting: Hosting the Olympics elevates a country’s global status, promotes it as an investment and tourist destination.
- Cautions on Overspending: Excessive spending can have dire consequences, as seen with Canada’s 30-year debt from the 1976 Montreal Games, the impact on Greece’s financial crisis after the 2004 Athens Olympics, and Rio’s $900 million bailout request from the Brazilian government.
- Positive Outcomes: In some cases, such as Beijing, hosting the Olympics led to significant GDP growth acceleration, by at least 0.8%.
India’s Prospects
- Favorable Timing: India’s bid aligns well with its status as the world’s most populous and fastest-growing major economy.
- Past Experience: Having previously hosted the 1982 Asian Games and the 2010 Commonwealth Games, India possesses a favorable track record, which the IOC takes into consideration.
- Gujarat’s Bid: Gujarat is contemplating bidding for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which could further demonstrate India’s hosting capabilities.
- Economic Power: India’s ascent as an economic powerhouse enhances its candidacy’s appeal to other nations.
Conclusion
- While India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics presents an opportunity to boost its global profile and economic prospects, it is essential to strike a balance between ambition and fiscal prudence.
- The economic implications, positive and negative, of hosting such a monumental event should be carefully evaluated to ensure that the effort and investment yield substantial long-term benefits for the nation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lamin B Receptor (LBR), Chemotherapy
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Researchers at the Netherlands Cancer Institute have conducted a recent study to investigate drug resistance in cancer cells, focusing on resistance to a drug known as Taxol.
- It studied Chemotherapy and cancer relapse, particularly when a small number of cancer cells resist treatment and remain dormant, potentially leading to a resurgence of the disease.
Chemotherapy and its limitations
- Cancer cells are characterized by uncontrolled and rapid division.
- Chemotherapeutic drugs aim to halt this proliferation, often triggering programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, in response to halted cell division.
- However, this approach also damages healthy dividing cells, leading to adverse side effects.
Fine-Tuning Cancer Treatment
- Oncologists face the challenge of finding an effective drug dose that eliminates cancer cells while minimizing unbearable side effects for patients.
- One approach has been the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that target specific proteins found mainly on cancer cells, sparing non-cancerous cells.
Unraveling Drug Resistance
- P-gp Protein: Some cancer cells escape drug treatments by overexpressing a protein called P-gp (permeability glycoprotein), which acts as a pump, expelling toxic compounds, including chemotherapeutic agents.
- ABCB1 Gene: The production of P-gp is controlled by the ABCB1 gene, and cells that produce excessive P-gp can flush out chemotherapy drugs, preventing them from accumulating at levels needed to trigger apoptosis.
Role of Cellular Location
- Recent Findings: The study examined the sensitivity of cells to Taxol and identified that the location of the ABCB1 gene within the cell’s nucleus plays a crucial role.
- Nuclear Envelope: In sensitive cells, the ABCB1 gene is located close to the nuclear envelope. In resistant cells, the gene has detached from the envelope and moved further inside the nucleus, resulting in a 100-fold increase in ABCB1 gene-related RNA.
Key Protein: Lamin B Receptor (LBR)
- LBR’s Influence: Researchers discovered that the presence or absence of a protein called Lamin B Receptor (LBR) affects the location of the ABCB1 gene.
- Depletion of LBR: When LBR is depleted, cells can activate the ABCB1 gene when exposed to Taxol. However, the absence of the LBR gene itself does not immediately increase ABCB1 expression, indicating the involvement of additional factors.
- Diverse Responses: Different cancer types exhibit varying responses to LBR depletion, highlighting the complex mechanisms governing gene expression and silencing.
- Analogy: A simple analogy illustrates the diversity: Different bathrooms offer various options for drying clothes, and cancer cell types rely on different mechanisms to tether genes to the nuclear envelope.
Significance
- These findings emphasize the need for further research into the diverse ways cancer cells express or suppress genes.
- Understanding drug resistance mechanisms opens avenues for developing strategies to maintain the potency of anti-cancer drugs while minimizing side effects, ultimately benefiting patients on their path to recovery.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PMLA
Mains level: Money Laundering
Central Idea
- The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is contemplating adding a political party as an accused in a money laundering probe linked to the now-defunct Excise Policy of the Delhi government.
Booking a Political Party for Money Laundering
- Applicable Law: Section 70 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) addresses offences by companies, and it can be invoked in this case.
- Definition of “Company”: While a political party isn’t a ‘company’ under the Companies Act, the PMLA includes an explanation that broadens the scope to include ‘associations of individuals,’ potentially encompassing political parties.
Precedent for such Cases
- If pursued, this action could set a significant precedent in India’s legal landscape.
- Previously, political parties have been investigated under the Income Tax Act.
- Trusts and NGOs are already within the purview of the PMLA, as per a notification by the Finance Ministry.
Connection between Charges and Political Party
- The central allegation by the ED is that the political party received the proceeds of crime in the excise scam.
- An additional explanation in Section 70 of the PMLA specifies that a “company may be prosecuted, notwithstanding whether the prosecution or conviction of any legal juridical person shall be contingent on the prosecution or conviction of any individual.”
- This implies that even if cases involving party members fail, the party can still be prosecuted for money laundering separately.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RCEP
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are considering joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) after India’s withdrawal from the trade agreement in 2019.
Recent update on RCEP
- Sri Lanka’s Application: Sri Lanka has applied for RCEP membership and seeks support from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and Thailand.
- Bangladesh’s Decision: Bangladesh is expected to make a final decision on RCEP membership after its elections in January 2024.
What is Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)?
| Scope |
Free trade agreement among 15 Asia-Pacific countries |
| Member Countries |
Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam |
| Negotiations and Signing |
Negotiations started in 2012,
Officially signed on November 15, 2020 |
| Entry into Force |
Effective from January 1, 2022 |
| Objectives |
Reduce trade barriers, promote economic growth, enhance economic cooperation |
| Trade Facilitation |
Includes tariff reductions, trade in services, rules of origin, customs procedures, and trade remedies |
| Market Access |
Improves market access for goods and services among member countries |
| Accession Rules |
Expected to be finalized by 2024 |
| Global Significance |
Significant due to large economies like China, Japan, and South Korea |
| India’s Withdrawal |
India initially participated but withdrew in 2019 citing concerns about trade deficits and domestic industries |
India’s Stance on RCEP
- Past Withdrawal: India withdrew from RCEP talks in 2019 due to concerns over services mobility, potential flood of Chinese goods, and objections from domestic agriculture and small businesses.
- No Indication of Return: India has not indicated any reconsideration of its decision to withdraw from RCEP.
Reasons for Sri Lanka and Bangladesh’s Interest
- Learning from Crisis: Sri Lanka realizes the importance of regional markets during crises and hopes to spread its market and enhance competitiveness.
- Bangladesh’s Graduation: As Bangladesh approaches graduation from the list of Least Developed Countries in 2026, joining RCEP could offset potential export losses and simplify FTA negotiations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hepatitis
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Egypt has become the first country to achieve the World Health Organization’s “gold tier” status on the path to elimination of Hepatitis C.
About Hepatitis
|
Hepatitis A |
Hepatitis B |
Hepatitis C |
| Causative Virus |
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) |
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) |
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) |
| Transmission |
Fecal-oral route (contaminated food/water) |
Blood and body fluids (unsafe sex, sharing needles) |
Blood-to-blood contact (sharing needles, transfusions) |
| Vaccine Available |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Chronic Infection |
No (usually acute) |
Yes (can become chronic) |
Yes (often becomes chronic) |
| Symptoms |
Mild flu-like symptoms, jaundice |
Variable, from none to severe symptoms |
Often asymptomatic, but can lead to liver damage |
| Chronic Complications |
None |
Cirrhosis, liver cancer |
Cirrhosis, liver cancer |
| Preventable by Vaccine |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
| Treatment |
Supportive care |
Antiviral medications |
Antiviral medications |
Egypt’s “Gold Tier” Status
- Stringent Criteria: To reach the “gold tier,” Egypt fulfilled specific criteria, including ensuring 100% blood and injection safety, providing a minimum of 150 needles/syringes annually for people who inject drugs, diagnosing over 80% of individuals with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV), treating over 70% of diagnosed HCV patients, and establishing a surveillance program for hepatitis sequelae, including liver cancer.
- Exemplary Results: Egypt has diagnosed 87% of its hepatitis C patients and provided curative treatment to 93% of those diagnosed, surpassing the WHO’s gold tier targets.
How did Egypt achieve this?
- “100 Million Healthy Lives” Initiative: Egypt’s ambitious initiative led to a substantial reduction in hepatitis C prevalence, from 10% in 2016 to 5% in 2018 and an estimated less than 1% in 2019, as reported by the Africa CDC.
- Leadership Role: Egypt extends support to other African countries, aiming to replicate its success in hepatitis C elimination, including enhancing access to affordable treatment.
Try this PYQ:
Which one of the following statements is not correct?
(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
(b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
(c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India-Sri Lanka Ferry
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- PM Modi inaugurated an international, high-speed passenger ferry service in Palk Strait between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, India, and Kankesanthurai, near Jaffna in Sri Lanka.
India-Sri Lanka Ferry
- The service is operated by the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board and Shipping Corporation of India.
- It will operate daily, covering the 60-nautical mile (110-km) journey in approximately 3.5 hours.
- Passengers are entitled to a 50kg free baggage allowance.
- The Indo-Ceylon Express or Board Mail used to operate between Chennai and Colombo via Thoothukudi port.
- However, this was stopped in 1982 due to the civil war in the island country.
About Palk Strait
| Location |
Narrow water body separating Tamil Nadu, India, and Sri Lanka. |
| Name Origin |
Named after Robert Palk, a British Raj-era governor of Madras Presidency (1755-1763). |
| Geographic Boundaries |
Southern boundaries include Pamban Island (India), Adam’s Bridge (shoals), Gulf of Mannar, and Mannar Island (Sri Lanka). |
| Connection |
Connects the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with the Gulf of Mannar in the southwest. |
| Alternate Name |
Southwestern part of the strait is known as Palk Bay. |
| Dimensions |
Width varies from 40 to 85 miles (64 to 137 km), length is approximately 85 miles, and depth is less than 330 feet (100 meters). |
| River Inflows |
Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu flow into the Palk Strait. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CAR-T Cell Therapy
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted market authorization to CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T) cell therapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment developed by ImmunoACT, an IIT-Bombay spin-off.
- This authorization paves the way for its commercial introduction in India.
About CAR-T Cell Therapy
What is it?
|
- CAR-T cell therapy stands for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy.
- It is a type of cancer immunotherapy that uses the patient’s own T cells, genetically modified in a laboratory to enhance their ability to locate and destroy cancer cells.
|
How does it work?
|
- T cells are white blood cells responsible for identifying and fighting illness and infection.
- Each T cell has a receptor that can recognize antigens (proteins or molecules recognized by the immune system).
- Cancer cells may have antigens that the immune system does not recognize as abnormal, allowing cancer to evade the immune response.
- CAR-T cells are genetically engineered in the lab to express a new receptor that can bind to cancer cells and effectively kill them.
|
Therapy Process
|
The process involves several steps, including:
1. Collecting T Cells: Blood is drawn from the patient’s arm, and T cells are separated from the blood using an apheresis machine.
2. Engineering T Cells: In a laboratory, the T cells are modified by adding a manufactured CAR, and they are allowed to multiply and grow.
3. Infusing CAR-T Cells: Once enough CAR-T cells are prepared, they are injected back into the patient’s arm.
- Chemotherapy may be recommended before CAR-T cell infusion to enhance treatment effectiveness.
- The process can take place in an outpatient infusion center or a hospital setting.
|
Cancers Treated
|
- CAR-T cell therapy is effective against certain types of cancer, especially when other treatments are ineffective.
- It is currently FDA-approved for treating haematological malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
|
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