Current Affairs Aug 2023

Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP)
GS Paper 3
Syllabus: Science and Technology

Source: BS
Context: The National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) draft has been released for public consultation by the National Consortium.

Aim of the Policy:
The Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) aims to strengthen the Indian deep tech startup ecosystem and address its unique challenges.

Definition of Deep Tech:
Deep Tech refers to advanced and cutting-edge technologies based on significant scientific and engineering innovations. For example, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are examples of Deep Tech, involving the development of sophisticated algorithms and models that enable machines to learn from data and make intelligent decisions.

Current Status:
India currently boasts the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, with more than 326 incubators and accelerators, of which about 14% are in the field of Deep Tech.

Themes of the Draft NDTSP:
The Draft NDTSP is based on the following themes:

Nurturing Research, Development & Innovation
Strengthening the Intellectual Property Regime
Facilitating Access to Funding
Enabling Shared Infrastructure and Resource Sharing
Creating Conducive Regulations, Standards, and Certifications
Attracting Human Resources & Initiating Capacity Building
Promoting Procurement & Adoption
Ensuring Policy & Program Interlinkages
Sustaining Deep Tech Startups

Significance:
This policy complements and adds value to the existing Startup India policies, programs, and initiatives. It fosters a conducive ecosystem for deep tech startups to thrive and address their unique and complex challenges.

About the National Consortium:
The National Consortium is an apex-level body set up on the recommendation of the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC). Its purpose is to propose a comprehensive policy framework for the Indian deep tech startup ecosystem. Chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, it includes high-level representatives from various government departments, industry associations, research institutions, and innovation centers.

About PM-STIAC:
The Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) assesses the status of specific S&T domains, comprehends challenges, and formulates interventions. It identifies nine national science missions aimed at addressing major scientific challenges to ensure India’s sustainable development.

2. Draft National Tourism Policy: Enhancing India’s Tourism Landscape

The Indian Ministry of Tourism has taken a significant stride with the introduction of the Draft National Tourism Policy. This policy marks a pivotal development in the realm of tourism, holding paramount significance within the UPSC General Studies (GS) Paper 3 syllabus, which specifically addresses the “Economic sectors: Tourism.”

Key Strategic Objectives

The policy’s central objectives resonate strongly with the economic dimensions of the syllabus. By aiming to enhance tourism’s contribution to the Indian economy through increased visitation, extended stays, and establishing India as a year-round tourist destination, the policy underscores the intricate connection between tourism and economic growth.

Job Creation and Entrepreneurial Opportunities

In line with the syllabus’s emphasis on economic development, the policy places great emphasis on generating jobs and entrepreneurial prospects within the tourism sector. This not only aligns with the syllabus content but also recognizes the potential for the tourism industry to be a catalyst for job creation and economic advancement.

Competitiveness and Private-sector Investment

The policy’s pursuit of enhancing the competitiveness of the tourism sector and attracting private-sector investment is a direct reflection of the economic reforms and incentives discussed within the GS Paper 3 syllabus. The recommendation to establish a National Tourism Council (NTC) akin to the GST council is particularly intriguing, showcasing an approach to effective policy-making for tourism, a topic of relevance to the syllabus.

Incentives and Investment

Underlining the economic aspects of the policy, the proposition to provide subsidies on operating costs for projects exceeding Rs. 25 crores capital expenditure resonates with the syllabus’s exploration of incentives and reforms. This approach encourages investments in the tourism sector, thereby furthering its economic growth potential.

Sustainable Development and Skilling

The policy’s commitment to sustainable, responsible, and inclusive tourism development is in alignment with the syllabus’s concern for sustainable development and environmental issues. Furthermore, the policy’s emphasis on skilling within the hospitality sector and support for tourism-related micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) directly addresses the syllabus’s focus on developmental aspects within the tourism sector.

Conclusion: Tapping into Potential

In conclusion, the Draft National Tourism Policy encapsulates a comprehensive roadmap for bolstering India’s tourism industry. Its intricate focus on economic growth, job creation, competitiveness, and sustainability makes it a pertinent subject for aspirants studying the GS Paper 3 syllabus. By addressing a myriad of economic and developmental facets, the policy not only augments the tourism sector but also offers a prime case study for the economic implications of tourism within India’s dynamic landscape.

3. India’s Chip Design Ecosystem: A Path to Technological Self-Reliance

In a significant stride towards bolstering the domestic semiconductor industry, the Indian government is mulling over a proposal to acquire equity stakes in indigenous chip design-making companies. This development, a key highlight of the second phase of the design-linked incentive (DLI) scheme, has significant implications within the framework of the UPSC General Studies (GS) Paper 3 syllabus, particularly in relation to “Changes in Industrial Policy and Their Effects on Industrial Growth.”

Growing Significance of India’s Semiconductor Landscape

The context of this move finds resonance with the global standing of India’s semiconductor domain. With approximately 20% of the world’s semiconductor design engineers hailing from India, the nation has emerged as a destination of choice for global semiconductor companies. This aligns with the syllabus’s focus on the effects of industrial policies on growth.

Enabling an Indigenous Chip Design Industry

A burgeoning domestic semiconductor industry is evident from the design of over 2,000 integrated circuits and chips annually in India. Global players such as Intel, Micron, and Qualcomm engage in R&D within the country. Moreover, the DLI scheme has fostered the establishment of over 30 semiconductor design startups, with governmental support granted to five of them.

Strategic Initiatives to Propel the Sector

Several strategic initiatives emphasize India’s commitment to nurturing its semiconductor sector. The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) launched in 2021 seeks to create a robust semiconductor ecosystem. Similarly, the SemiconIndia Programme with an outlay of INR 76,000 crore aims to develop a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem. These initiatives align with the syllabus’s exploration of industrial policy changes and their effects on industrial growth.

The Essence of the DLI Scheme

The design-linked incentive (DLI) scheme, introduced in 2021, plays a pivotal role in the policy landscape. With fiscal and infrastructural support, the scheme encourages the establishment of fabs or semiconductor-making plants in India. This resonates with the syllabus’s concern for industrial policy changes and their effects on the economy.

Equity Stake: A Catalyst for Transformation

The proposal to acquire equity stakes in domestic chip design companies bears immense significance. This move can empower local design companies, enhance market reach, and prevent undue dominance by global players. For aspirants exploring industrial policy’s effects on growth, this equity infusion signifies a notable policy intervention.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Challenges like capital intensity, prolonged return on investments, and supply chain disruptions underscore the complexity of fostering a semiconductor ecosystem. The syllabus’s focus on industrial growth and changes in policy settings finds resonance in the necessity to formulate a robust strategy that aligns investments with innovation and employment generation.

A Vision of Technological Self-Reliance

In conclusion, India’s aspirations for a robust chip design ecosystem mirror its journey toward technological self-reliance. This trajectory aligns with the syllabus’s concern for industrial policy changes and their influence on economic growth. The proposed equity infusion, along with strategic initiatives, has the potential to establish India as a global hub for semiconductor innovation while serving the nation’s technological interests and global demand alike.

Prelims Tadka

1. Odisha Millets Mission

Odisha Millets Mission (OMM): A progressive initiative in Odisha, India, promoting millets through engagement with Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the millet value chain.
Millet Shakti Cafés and Outlets: Established under OMM in various districts, showcasing a diverse range of millet-based food items.
Women Empowerment: OMM provides training in recipe formulation, packaging, quality control, marketing, and other skills to Women SHGs, enabling their effective participation in the millet industry.
Policy Implications:
Governance: Illustrates proactive governance strategy for enhancing nutritional diversity and addressing malnutrition.
Women Empowerment: Demonstrates women’s empowerment through economic engagement and participation.
Public Health: Aligns with public health objectives by promoting nutritious and sustainable food sources.
Cross-cutting Example: Relevant for questions on governance, women empowerment, and public health in various exams.

2.Special Development Councils (SDCs) in Odisha

Special Development Councils (SDCs) in Odisha: Implemented to safeguard tribal culture and promote economic development.
SDCs Focus on:
Cultural Markers: Identifying and promoting vital cultural identifiers of tribal heritage, including language, sacred groves, and tribal artisans.
Tribal Proficiency Centers: Establishment of more than 21 tribal proficiency centers to educate people about tribal culture and dialect.
Conservation of Sacred Groves: Conservation efforts for over 4,500 sacred groves, preserving ecological and cultural significance.
Artisan Empowerment: Issuance of artisan ID cards to 40,000+ tribal artisans to preserve cultural heritage and generate employment opportunities.
Cultural Context in Development: Ensuring cultural sensitivity in developmental projects.
Relevance and Usage:
Indian Society/Anthropology Paper: An apt example showcasing efforts to preserve and promote tribal culture while considering economic development.

3. ULLAS: Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram:

Launched by: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Context: Launched on the 3rd anniversary of NEP 2020.
Aim:
- Provide widespread access to basic literacy and critical life skills through technology.
- Serve as a digital gateway for learners to access learning resources via the DIKSHA portal of NCERT.
Focus Areas:
- Promoting functional literacy, vocational skills, financial literacy, legal literacy, digital literacy, and empowerment of citizens.
Implementation:
- Operates through volunteerism, encouraging volunteers to engage in nation-building.
- Student volunteers receive incentives through school/university credits, certificates, appreciation letters, and felicitation.
- Targets citizens aged 15 and above who missed school, offering an open-source learning platform.
Statistics:
- More than 12 lakh students were out of school in 2022-23, with boys outnumbering girls.
Significance:
- The logo and slogan of “ULLAS: Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram” represent the campaign’s enthusiasm and the spread of knowledge across the nation.

This information can be used effectively in questions related to education, skill development, and social empowerment.

4. Direct Listing of Indian Companies on Foreign Exchanges:

Context: Indian companies soon allowed to list their securities on overseas exchanges in specific jurisdictions.
Listing on Stock Exchange:
- Process of making a company’s shares or securities available for public trading.
- Allows investors to buy and sell company stock, providing capital access and visibility.
Present Status:
- Currently, Indian companies can’t directly list abroad without domestic exchange listing.
- In 2020, Companies Act amended to allow direct foreign listing, but a framework not yet established.
- Indian firms can raise funds through ADRs (US exchanges) and GDRs (mostly European exchanges).
Listing Process:
- Initial listing in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gandhinagar.
- Followed by permission for listing in seven or eight specified overseas jurisdictions.
Significance:
- Expands capital access for Indian businesses.
- Attracts more overseas investors, potentially improving valuations for Indian companies.
International Financial Services Centre (IFSC):
Special economic zone in Gandhinagar.
Facilitates financial activities like offshore banking, insurance, and securities trading in foreign currencies.
Corporate Debt Market Development Fund (CDMDF):
Launched by SEBI.
Aims to stabilize the corporate bond market during stress.
Supported with Rs. 30,000 crore guarantee from National Credit Guarantee Trust Company and over Rs. 3,000 crore from the mutual fund industry.

This information can be useful in questions about economic reforms, financial markets, and international trade.

5. GOBARdhan Initiative:

Context: An initiative in India focusing on converting waste into wealth through biogas and compressed biogas (CBG).
Unified Registration Portal Response:
- Over 1200 biogas plant requests, including 320 CBG plants, in 60 days since its launch.
Aim:
- Scientific management of organic waste.
- Benefiting rural households.
- Collaboration between government, private players, and stakeholders.
About GOBARdhan Scheme:
Launched: In 2018.
Full Form: Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan).
Aim: Convert waste to wealth, promoting a circular economy.
Nodal Ministry: Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Part of: Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) Phase II under Solid Waste Management.
Objectives:
- Manage cattle and agricultural waste safely in villages.
- Convert organic waste to biogas and organic manure for rural use.
- Promote environmental sanitation and curb vector-borne diseases in rural areas.
- Create rural employment and income generation opportunities through GOBARdhan units involving entrepreneurs, SHGs, and youth groups.
Financial Incentive:
- Government provides technical assistance and up to 50 lakhs financial support per district for safe disposal of cattle and organic waste.
Budget 2023-24 Announcement:
- Establishment of 500 new ‘waste to wealth’ plants, including 200 CBG plants, with private sector and stakeholder support.
- Urban and community/cluster-based plants included (75 urban, 300 community-based).

This information is useful for questions related to waste management, sustainable development, and rural employment.

6. Worldcoin Initiative:

Context: Worldcoin aims to create a digital network enabling individuals to claim a stake and join the digital economy.
Project Involvement:
- Individuals’ irises scanned through “Orb” device to collect biometric data.
- Issuance of a World ID in exchange for biometric data.
- Participants receive cryptocurrency “Worldcoin [WLD]”.
- Goal: Establish the “world’s largest identity and financial public network” accessible globally.
Participation Options:
Individuals can become “Orb operators” and scan irises of others.
Individuals can get their own irises scanned to receive a World ID and WLD cryptocurrency.
Features:
Biometric Data Usage: Ensures unique participation and prevents duplications.
Privacy Measures: Zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) used to maintain users’ privacy and comply with Europe’s GDPR.
Price Fluctuations: WLD cryptocurrency’s price fluctuates.
Criticisms: Criticized for using biometrics for verification, including by NSA whistle-blower Edward Snowden.
Introduction in India:
Worldcoin introduced in India.
Orb operators scan people’s eyes in cities like Delhi, Noida, and Bangalore.

This information can be relevant for discussions on digital identity, privacy, and cryptocurrency adoption in various exams.

7. 46,000-Year-Old Revived Worms from Siberian Permafrost:

Context: Scientists reanimated two types of frozen microscopic nematodes from Siberia, discovering that they are 46,000 years old, frozen since the late Pleistocene era.
New Species Discovery:
- One nematode belongs to a new species, Panagrolaimus kolymaensis.
Survival Mechanism:
- Animals like nematodes and tardigrades can survive extreme conditions through “cryptobiosis” – a dormant state.
- Surviving without water, oxygen, extreme temperatures, and drying.
Cryptobiosis:
State where an organism shows no visible signs of life and metabolic activity nearly stops.
Allows survival without water, oxygen, or under extreme conditions.
Essentially a temporary “death” of the organism as metabolism halts.
Significance:
Increases longest recorded cryptobiosis period in nematodes by tens of thousands of years.
Insight into how organisms adapt to extreme conditions due to climate change and changing habitats.
Raises questions about evolution and extinction as these worms extended their lifespan by thousands of years.
Practical Implications: May help species today and humans adapt to extreme conditions.

This information can be relevant for questions on evolution, survival mechanisms, and climate change impact on species.

8. Room-Temperature Superconductor – LK-99:

Context: Korean researchers developed LK-99, a superconductor that functions at room temperature and ambient pressure, a significant physics breakthrough.
Superconductors:
- Transmit electricity with nearly 100% efficiency.
- Applied in MRI machines, magnetic levitation trains, and more.
Benefits of Room-Temperature Superconductors:
- Reduced costs in electricity grids, computer chips, maglev train magnets, energy storage devices, and fusion reactors due to eliminating coolant expenses.
Significance:
- Revolutionary potential in various industries, especially computing.
- Vital for quantum computing where qubits require super-cooling to avoid errors.
- Room-temperature superconductors could eliminate complex cooling systems, making quantum computing practical and accessible.

This information can be relevant for questions related to technological advancements, energy efficiency, and quantum computing’s potential impact on various sectors.

9. New Blood Testing Technology – GEMINI:

Context: Researchers developed GEMINI (Genome-wide Mutational Incidence for Non-Invasive Detection of Cancer), a blood testing technology for early cancer detection.
Technology’s Potential:
- Enables earlier detection of lung and other cancers.
Working of GEMINI:
Blood sample collected from individuals at risk of cancer.
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from tumor-shed cells sequenced using cost-efficient whole genome sequencing.
Single molecules of DNA analyzed for sequence alterations, providing genome-wide mutation profiles.
Machine learning model identifies changes in cancer and non-cancer mutation frequencies.
Generates a score indicating likelihood of having cancer.
Effectiveness:
In lab tests, combined with computerized tomography imaging, detected over 90% of lung cancers, including early-stage diseases.
Identified altered mutation profiles in cfDNA from patients with other cancers like liver cancer, melanoma, and lymphoma.
Suggests potential broader applications.
cfDNA:
Stands for “cell-free DNA.”
Refers to DNA fragments released into bloodstream or bodily fluids when cells die and break down.
These fragments are not enclosed within cells, hence “cell-free.”

This information can be relevant for discussions on medical advancements, cancer detection, and biotechnology’s impact on healthcare.

10. GI Tags

GI Tags Granted to Tamil Nadu Products:
Jaderi Namakatti:
- Clay sticks with white color, finger-like shape, and smooth texture.
- Made by Jaderi Tiruman (Namakatti) Producers Society in Jaderi, Tiruvannamalai district.
- Origin: Village of Jaderi, Tamil Nadu.
Kanniyakumari Matti Banana:
- Traditional table banana with medicinal value, highly fragrant, sweet with a sub-acid flavor, and powdery nature.
- Origin: Kanniyakumari district, Tamil Nadu.
Chedibutta Saree:
- Handloom saree made from art silk and cotton mix fabric.
- Features the iconic “plant and flower” motif on the border and pallu.
- Woven by skilled Sowrashtra weavers.
- Origin: Veeravanallur town, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.
Other Products Receiving GI Tags:
Agra Leather Footwear.
Rajasthan’s Nathdwara Pichhwai Painting.
Kashmir’s Mushqbudji Rice.
Bihar’s Marcha Rice.
Jammu Kashmir’s Rajouri Chikri Wood Craft.
Agsechi Vayingim (Agassaim Brinjal) of Goa.
Sat Shiro Bheno (Sat Shirancho Bhendo), also known as Okra, a vegetable crop of Goa.

This information can be useful for questions related to Geographical Indications (GI) and specific products associated with different regions in India.