The article discusses the advancements made by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in developing environmentally friendly launch vehicle systems, highlighting their commitment to sustainable practices in space exploration. Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair, the Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), elaborated on these developments during the inauguration of the national conference, EVINCE 2025, focused on sustainable technologies in chemical engineering. Key points discussed include the role of sustainable technologies in the space sector, the advancements in eco-friendly propulsion systems, and the importance of chemical engineering in promoting technological progress.

Summary:

• Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair, Director of VSSC, highlighted ISRO's commitment to developing eco-friendly launch vehicle systems during the EVINCE 2025 conference.
• The conference, organized by the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (IIChE), emphasized sustainable technologies in the space industry.
• Advances in using semi-cryogenic and cryogenic systems as well as Liquid Oxygen-Methane propellants were specifically noted.
• M.C. Dathan, a former VSSC director, stressed the need for emphasis on sustainability and circular economy principles to address carbon footprints.
• Industry leaders, including Anirudha Bhalchandra Pandit and C. Anandharamakrishnan, participated in discussions on the integration of artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing.
• The overarching theme of EVINCE 2025 centers on revolutionizing material design and production to further sustainable practices and technologies.

In conclusion, the article showcases ISRO's initiative towards sustainability in the space sector, underlining the broader significance of chemical engineering in innovation and technology for ecological conservation.

In late 2019, a severe outbreak of desert locusts began in western India, originating from East Africa and affecting multiple countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, and India. This locust invasion is considered one of the worst in decades, resulting in the destruction of over 200,000 hectares of crops. Researchers from German and North American universities took this opportunity to study locust swarming behaviors in Kenya to enhance the understanding of these phenomena.

Key Findings:

• Historically, locust behavior was modeled similarly to gaseous particles, where individual locusts were believed to align directionally with their neighbors.
• The research team, led by professor Iain Couzin, found that locusts do not merely act like particles; instead, their movements are influenced by cognitive decision-making based on nearby visual stimuli.
• Vision was identified as a critical factor steering locust movements within a swarm, contrary to previous assumptions that olfactory or tactile cues played significant roles.

Research Methodology:

• During their studies, scientists used sensory-deprivation experiments to disrupt locusts’ abilities to see and sense surrounding motion. Results indicated that those with impaired vision lost directional awareness, while those with clear vision maintained coordination.
• Further investigations involved using virtual reality environments to simulate varied swarm configurations, leading to the discovery that locusts align their motion based on cohesive visual cues rather than sheer crowd density.

New Model:

• A revised mathematical model based on neural ring attractor networks was developed, depicting locusts as entities capable of complex decision-making. This contrasts the previous model of them being mere particles without planning ability.
• The emergent behavior noted in locust swarms resembles patterns seen in biological groups, such as bird flocks or traffic movements—resulting from decentralized and individual interactions.

Implications:

• Understanding locust swarming behavior is crucial as their population dynamics and movement patterns are influenced heavily by climate change, which has enhanced breeding conditions through increased rainfall.
• The understanding gained from this research can improve forecasting and management strategies for future locust swarms, which are projected to become larger and increasingly unpredictable due to climate factors.
• Collaboration with climate scientists and vegetation experts is essential for developing effective predictive models to mitigate the impacts of locust outbreaks on agriculture and food security.

Conclusion:

The study represents a significant milestone in understanding locust behavior, shifting from outdated models to a more nuanced view that emphasizes visual perception and individual cognitive decision-making within swarms. Further research is needed to address remaining questions about swarm directionality and emergent behaviors.

Important Sentences:

• A wave of desert locusts, originating from East Africa, invaded western India in late 2019, resulting in widespread agricultural destruction.
• Previous models likened locust swarming behavior to gas particles; however, new findings indicate that locusts' movements are dictated by cognitive decision-making influenced by nearby motion.
• Vision was determined to be a critical factor in locust directional movement, overriding olfactory and tactile influences.
• The research culminated in the development of a new model viewing locusts as decision-making entities, rather than mindless particles.
• Enhanced understanding of locust dynamics could help improve crop protection strategies in light of changing climate conditions.

A recent study highlights the additional health benefits of the shingles vaccine, indicating a significant reduction in the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and dementia among those vaccinated. Conducted in South Korea, the study found that individuals who received the shingles vaccine had a 23% lower likelihood of developing cardiovascular conditions. More compellingly, a pivotal “natural experiment” in Wales uncovered that vaccination against shingles not only protects from the viral infection but may also substantially lower the risk of dementia, a serious and debilitating neurodegenerative disease.

Key Findings:

• The shingles vaccine reduces the risk of cardiovascular conditions by 23%.
• Research from Wales demonstrates a 20% lower relative risk of dementia in vaccinated individuals compared to their unvaccinated counterparts.
• The shingles virus, linked with long-term cognitive issues, may increase dementia risk, suggesting vaccination’s protective role.

What is Shingles?

• Shingles is a viral infection resulting in painful rashes caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox.
• Symptoms typically include a blistering rash that appears on one side of the torso, with potential long-lasting pain and severe complications like vision loss.
• The shingles vaccine is mainly recommended for individuals over 50 and those with weakened immune systems.

Unique Aspects of the Welsh Study:

• The study leverages a unique vaccination rollout strategy that allowed only certain age groups (79- to 80-year-olds) to receive the vaccine, creating a comparative cohort which strengthened the findings’ reliability.
• Over a seven-year duration, the study discovered that vaccinated individuals had a 3.5 percentage point reduction in dementia diagnoses.

Mechanisms Behind the Findings:

• Scientists theorize that vaccinating against the shingles virus may prevent its reactivation, thereby reducing risks associated with cognitive decline.
• Changes in immune responses linked to shingles could provide underlying protective effects against dementia.

Other Vaccines and Cognitive Health:

• Two shingles vaccines are available: Zostavax (live, weakened virus) and Shingrix (recombinant technology). Both are reported to provide similar benefits against dementia.
• A study from Oxford suggested Shingrix conferred a 17% reduction in dementia diagnoses over six years.
• Additional research indicates lower dementia risks may also be associated with other common vaccines, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and diphtheria.

Summary of Important Points:

• Shingles vaccine not only protects against shingles but also reduces the risk of cardiovascular issues and dementia.
• The Welsh study utilized a natural experiment design, enhancing its validity compared to traditional patient record studies.
• Long-term benefits of vaccination may extend beyond initial expectations, underscoring the importance of vaccinations in older populations.
• Further research is necessary to thoroughly understand the protective mechanisms at play and establish firm connections between vaccines and cognitive health.

In conclusion, these findings provide substantial insights into the broader advantages of the shingles vaccine, reinforcing recommendations for vaccination among older adults and those with health vulnerabilities. As the studies indicate, immunization might play a crucial role in not just preventing infections but also protecting cognitive health as we age.

The article discusses significant advancements made by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) towards developing eco-friendly launch vehicle systems, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable practices in space exploration. S. Unnikrishnan Nair, the Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), highlighted these developments during a two-day national conference titled "Emerging Vistas in Chemical Engineering" (EVINCE 2025), organized by the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (IIChE) in Thiruvananthapuram.

Key points from the article include:

• ISRO's Commitment: The Indian Space Research Organisation is focused on developing eco-friendly launch systems as part of its dedication to sustainable space exploration.

• Advancements in Propellants: Dr. Nair pointed out advancements in using semi-cryogenic, cryogenic, and Liquid Oxygen-Methane propellants, showcasing ISRO's progress in sustainable technologies within the space sector.

• Role of Chemical Engineering: The Director emphasized the vital role of chemical engineering in advancing India's technological capabilities, particularly concerning sustainable developments in space.

• Sustainability and Circular Economy: M.C. Dathan, a former VSSC director and current Mentor (Science) to the Chief Minister of Kerala, noted the importance of sustainability and circular economy principles in creating innovative solutions to reduce carbon footprints.

• Conference Participants: Several distinguished speakers participated in the conference, including Anirudha Bhalchandra Pandit (Vice-Chancellor, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai), C. Anandharamakrishnan (Director, CSIR-NIIST), R. Vijay (Director, ARCI), and S.K. Manu (Deputy Director, VSSC).

• EVINCE 2025 Theme: The theme of the conference revolves around artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing, focusing on their potential to revolutionize material design and production.

Overall, the event underlined the essential collaboration between chemical engineering and space technology in fostering innovations that can mitigate environmental impacts while enhancing capabilities in space exploration.

Specialists from four institutions within the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have successfully assembled the first chromosome-level genome for the Indian yak (Bos grunniens), heralded as a significant advancement in yak genomic science. The Indian yak, often referred to as the 'ship of the Himalayas,' is vital to the livelihood of high-altitude communities, providing essential resources like meat, milk, and transportation.

Key Highlights:

• The Indian yak is recognized for its resilience and adaptability to harsh environments.
• The research team led by Mihir Sarkar from ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak represents a monumental achievement that could revolutionize yak breeding and conservation initiatives.
• Collaborators included specialists from ICAR-Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, and ICAR-CIRC, each leading their respective teams.
• Advanced long-read sequencing technology and bioinformatics tools were utilized to create a chromosome-level assembly of the yak genome, mapping genes to their precise chromosomal locations for enhanced clarity on genetic complexities.
• This comparative genomic data will facilitate the mining of alleles for beneficial traits, addressing both biotic and abiotic stresses.
• Researchers highlight that the detailed genome is poised to improve scientific research and local livestock management practices significantly.
• The insights gained will enhance understanding of sustaining yak populations across the Himalayas, crucial for conservation and sustainable development.

Despite their importance, Indian yaks face multiple challenges, including shrinking grazing areas, climate change, diseases, and genetic erosion. The findings from this genomic work are expected to play a critical role in identifying genetic markers linked to desirable traits such as cold tolerance, disease resistance, and improved milk production. This knowledge will bolster the long-term sustainability of yak populations and elevate the socio-economic status of yak herders.

Importance of the Research:

• The genome assembly is regarded as a stepping stone for advancing yak genomic science and the practical applications of these scientific findings.
• There’s a shared emphasis on translating research outcomes into actionable strategies for conservation and development, ensuring that yak herders can benefit economically and socially from improved yak management practices.

Overall, this pioneering genome research on the Indian yak is expected to serve as a fundamental resource in understanding and preserving this crucial species, vital for the high-altitude economy and ecosystem of the Himalayan region.

Recent studies indicate the shingles vaccine offers benefits beyond its primary purpose of preventing shingles, particularly in reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems and dementia. Here’s an overview of these findings, the nature of shingles, and the implications for public health:

• Shingles Vaccine Benefits: A South Korean study concluded that individuals vaccinated for shingles show a 23% reduced risk of developing cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, a study from Wales highlighted that vaccination lowers the risk of dementia, a serious neurodegenerative disease.

• Understanding Shingles: Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus—also responsible for chickenpox. It manifests as painful rashes that typically appear as blisters on one side of the torso. The virus remains dormant after chickenpox and can reactivate, especially when the immune system is weakened. The vaccine is primarily recommended for individuals over 50 and those with compromised immune systems.

• Welsh Study Insights:

  • The Welsh study took advantage of a unique vaccination rollout strategy that created a "natural experiment." People aged 79-80 were eligible for the vaccine, while those 78 and below received it a year later. This led to a controlled study where half the cohort received the vaccine.
  • Health outcomes from this cohort revealed a 3.5 percentage point reduction in dementia diagnoses over a seven-year span among those vaccinated—equating to a 20% lower relative risk compared to the unvaccinated.

• Mechanism of Action: The reasons for the reduced dementia risk linked to the shingles vaccine are still being investigated. One theory suggests that reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus has cognitive effects and that preventing it through vaccination may provide neuroprotective benefits. Other hypotheses point to immune system alterations caused by the virus itself that could offer protection against dementia.

• Comparison of Vaccines: There are two licensed shingles vaccines:

  • Zostavax: Uses a live, weakened virus.
  • Shingrix: Employs recombinant technology that enables parts of the virus to develop without causing the disease.
  • Note that the Welsh study focused on recipients of the older Zostavax vaccine. However, other studies, including one from Oxford University, indicated that the Shingrix vaccine may also confer a protective effect against dementia, showing a 17% reduction in diagnoses following vaccination.

• Broader Implications: Recent research suggests that vaccines typically associated with other infections—like hepatitis A, typhoid, and diphtheria—also correlate with a decreased risk of dementia, further emphasizing the potential role vaccines could play in public health regarding cognitive conditions.

In conclusion, the potential of vaccines, specifically the shingles vaccine, extends beyond their conventional protective roles, suggesting a significant impact on both cardiovascular health and the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. Vaccination strategies may warrant reevaluation and enthusiasm given these additional benefits.

Important Points:

• Shingles vaccine may reduce cardiovascular risk by 23%.
• Evidence suggests shingles vaccination may lower dementia risk significantly.
• A Welsh study provided robust evidence through a "natural experiment" design.
• Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and commonly manifests as painful rashes.
• Vaccination is primarily recommended for those over 50 and those with weakened immune systems.
• Researchers are investigating the mechanisms behind the dementia-preventative effects of shingles vaccination.
• Both Zostavax and Shingrix vaccines may offer protective benefits against dementia.
• Other vaccines are also being studied for potential reductions in dementia risk.

The article discusses recent advancements in the field of quantum materials, especially focusing on quantum dots and the production of 2D metals. Here are the major points summarized:

Quantum Dots:

• Definition and Applications: Quantum dots are tiny semiconductors just a few nanometers wide, with extensive applications, including in LED technology, medical diagnostics, and solar panels.
• Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023: The scientific team that developed a quick and reliable method to synthesize quantum dots was awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize for Chemistry.
• Quantum Confinement Phenomenon: Quantum dots exhibit novel electronic properties due to quantum confinement, where the movement of electrons is restricted within a small space, leading to quantized energy levels. This behavior is akin to electrons in an atom, contrasting with the behavior of electrons flowing freely in copper wires.

2D Metals and Their Significance:

• Challenge in Creating 2D Metals: While scientists have successfully created 2D materials like graphene, developing 2D metals has proven challenging due to the tendency of metal atoms to bond in three dimensions.
• Potential of 2D Metals: The anticipated benefits of 2D metals include unique electronic properties that could enable innovations in technology, including sensitive sensors and faster computer systems utilizing topological insulators.

Recent Breakthrough:

• New Method for Producing 2D Sheets: A research team from various institutions in Beijing has proposed a method to create 2D sheets of metals such as bismuth, gallium, and tin, representing progress in the field.
• Simplified Technique: The process involves layering pure metal powder on sapphire plates coated with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), applying heat and pressure. Notably, the produced bismuth sheet was only 6.3 Å thick—around two atomic layers, sufficient for 2D electron behavior.
• Characteristics of Produced 2D Bismuth: The obtained sheets demonstrated a strong field effect and a nonlinear Hall effect, both of which are properties expected in 2D metals.

Future Prospects:

• Implications of the Research: This new technique may lead to improvements in producing 2D metals and the potential creation of topological insulators functioning at room temperature, which could further drive advancements in electronic devices.
• Opportunities for Further Research: The methodology could be adapted to develop multi-metal compositions and increase the size of 2D sheets. Research into electronic properties of other developed materials will also expand understanding in this domain.

In summary, the article outlines the foundational role of quantum dots and recent advances in producing 2D metals, emphasizing both the historical significance and future potential of these materials in crafting revolutionary technologies.

Important Sentences:

• Quantum dots are a type of semiconductor with applications in LED lighting, medical diagnostics, and solar panels.
• The 2023 Nobel Prize for Chemistry was awarded for advancements in the synthesis of quantum dots.
• Quantum confinement causes electrons in quantum dots to have quantized energy levels, behaving similarly to electrons in atoms.
• Developing 2D metals is challenging due to their atomic bonding tendencies, which usually favor three-dimensional structures.
• A research team has recently proposed a method for producing 2D sheets of metals, including bismuth and tin.
• The 2D bismuth sheet produced was only 6.3 Å thick and exhibited properties unique to 2D materials, such as a strong field effect.
• Future applications could leverage these materials for creating room-temperature topological insulators and enhancing electronic devices.

India is embarking on groundbreaking research aimed at ensuring the sustainability of human life in space, as part of the BioE3 Biotechnology policy initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that these pioneering efforts will include the first-ever biological experiments conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the AXIOM-4 mission, with Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla being a crew member.

Key Points

• India is preparing to conduct its first biological experiments in space under the BioE3 Biotechnology policy.
• The research is spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
• The first experiment will explore the effects of microgravity on edible microalgae, a potential sustainable food source for long-duration space missions.
• Microalgae, which are nutrient-rich and have a high growth rate, are seen as suitable candidates for sustaining life in space.
• The second experiment will focus on cyanobacteria, particularly Spirulina, assessing their nutritional value and growth conditions under space conditions.
• Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of recycling carbon and nitrogen from human waste to enable self-sustainability during prolonged space travel.
• The experiments leverage advanced techniques to analyze growth parameters of microalgal species and are developed with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in New Delhi.
• The Biofoundry facility, recently inaugurated, will support research and development in biotechnology across various sectors, making significant contributions towards India's vision of biotechnological leadership.
• The BioE3 policy aims to accelerate biomanufacturing and innovation in key sectors such as bio-based products, climate-resilient agriculture, and space research.

Details of Experiments

• First Experiment: Focused on the microgravity impact on edible microalgae, assessing aspects like growth rates and nutritional value, which could serve as food sources in space.
• Second Experiment: Examines the growth and metabolic responses of Spirulina and Synechococcus under varying nitrogen sources—urea and nitrate. This research aspires to leverage these organisms for waste recycling in closed-space environments.

Significance and Future Implications

• The experiments are pivotal as they represent India's increasing commitment to space biotechnology and food sustainability in extraterrestrial settings.
• The research findings could pave the way for future self-sustaining missions, vital for long-duration human habitation in space.
• The development of the DBT-ICGEB Biofoundry signifies a major investment in biotechnology, aiming to foster innovation in biomanufacturing and facilitate technology transfer to startups and industries.

In conclusion, India’s foray into space biology not only showcases its advancements in biotechnology but also aligns with its ambition of becoming a global leader in the field. As these experiments are conducted aboard the ISS, they are expected to provide critical insights that could transform how humanity approaches life and sustainability in outer space.

The article discusses the ongoing transformation in artificial intelligence (AI) with a focus on recent developments around agentic AI, the challenges organizations face in implementing AI effectively, and the governance issues surrounding these technologies.

Summary:

Artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving, moving from generative AI to agentic AI, which assists in automating specific tasks. Despite the burgeoning interest, many organizations struggle with AI adoption due to various constraints, including a lack of understanding, regulatory challenges, and inadequate infrastructure. Kelly Forbes of Qlik emphasizes the necessity for corporate-led AI councils to establish best practices and ensure compliance across regions while acknowledging the significance of local governance in AI implementation.

Key Points:

• AI is shifting from generative applications to agentic AI, which requires less human intervention.
• There is a lack of uniform standards for AI adoption among organizations, hampering effective scaling.
• Understanding local regulations and governance structures is critical for successful AI integration.
• The AI Council at Qlik, comprising experts with diverse backgrounds, aims to guide the company through the evolving AI landscape.
• Agentic AI's increased autonomy raises concerns about safeguards and accountability, necessitating ongoing adaptation of governance frameworks.
• Qlik focuses on ethical AI by aligning with international standards, including those from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
• The global landscape for AI ethics and governance remains fragmented without a unified standard; notable exceptions like the EU's AI Act attempt to address this.
• Forbes highlights the importance of learning models from countries which effectively balance innovation and regulation, such as Singapore and the UAE.
• Challenges surrounding generative AI include biases and inaccuracies in training data, necessitating awareness and training for users.
• The term "human in the loop" suggests the need for better training to oversee AI systems, especially in high-risk areas.
• AI councils play a pivotal role in fostering ethical governance practices and ensuring that organizations have appropriate oversight.
• As AI evolves, there is a concern that disparities in access to AI education and skills could result in increased inequality in the workforce.

Forbes stresses that upskilling and digital equity are crucial to ensure that all individuals benefit from AI advancements. She anticipates ongoing discussions about ethical implications, particularly as the technology continues to grow exponentially. Lastly, while predicting the future of AI presents inherent uncertainties, the emphasis remains on the need for responsible advancement within the sector.

In conclusion, the dialogue surrounding AI governance is becoming increasingly complex as the technology matures, prompting calls for better regulatory frameworks, ethical considerations, and widespread training to foster inclusive progress as AI continues to permeate various sectors.

The article from The Indian Express highlights significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities at the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (Power Grid), particularly concerning its substations. Despite the implementation of official cybersecurity guidelines in late 2021, over 270 substations lack advanced cybersecurity firewalls, leaving critical national infrastructure exposed to potential cyber threats.

Key Points:

• Inadequate Cybersecurity Measures:

  • More than 270 substations operated by Power Grid, commissioned before late 2021, still do not have next-generation firewalls in place.
  • The cost of installing these firewalls across the substations is estimated at around ₹119 crore.

• Budget Constraints:

  • Power Grid informed the National Power Committee (NPC) that accommodating this expenditure within its operations and maintenance budget poses challenges due to strict regulatory limits, although it stated such projects are being finalized.

• Implications of Firewall Absence:

  • The lack of next-generation firewalls increases the cybersecurity risks to critical infrastructure, particularly in light of rising geopolitical tensions with neighboring countries.
  • Next-generation firewalls are crucial for real-time threat detection and mitigation, unlike traditional firewalls that may not provide comprehensive protection.

• Cybersecurity Discussions:

  • In upcoming NPC meetings, members will discuss mechanisms for funding these firewall installations and formulate a broader strategy for implementing cybersecurity measures across the national transmission network.

• Current Security Measures:

  • Power Grid claims that while firewalls are operational at Control Centres, substantial gaps in perimeter security exist at the substations.
  • Security measures, such as air gap arrangements, are also stated to be inadequate for substantial protection.

• Cyber Threat Landscape:

  • Increasing frequency of cyberattacks on the power sector was acknowledged by Power Grid, emphasizing the vulnerability of systems without adequate security measures.
  • The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has warned about the limitations of relying solely on firewalls, highlighting their susceptibility to misconfiguration and insider threats.

• Government Initiatives:

  • On September 2024, the inauguration of the Computer Security Incident Response Team for the power sector (CSIRT-Power) aims to bolster sector-wide cybersecurity defenses through training and threat detection.
  • Previous cyber threats, such as attempted attacks by Chinese hackers targeting Indian electricity distribution centers, underscore the urgency for enhanced security measures.

• Leadership Awareness:

  • The Union Power Minister has acknowledged the evolving nature of cyber threats and reinforced the need for robust cybersecurity in the power sector, which is integral to national infrastructure stability.

This summary indicates that while Power Grid is in the process of developing a strategy for cybersecurity upgrades, existing financial and operational hurdles impede the timely implementation of necessary protections. The ongoing dialogues and governmental initiatives reflect a proactive approach to address these vulnerabilities amidst an evolving digital threat landscape.

India is poised to make significant advancements in space biology with its first-ever biological experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the AXIOM-4 mission. This initiative is rooted in the BioE3 Biotechnology policy introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with an overarching goal of understanding and ensuring sustainability for human life in extraterrestrial settings. The experiments are spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and involve Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.

Key Highlights from the Announcement:

• Sustainability in Space: The primary aim is to explore sustainable food sources and waste recycling for long-duration space missions.
• Microalgae Research: The first experiment will study how microgravity affects edible microalgae, which offer high nutritional value and could serve as a viable food source for astronauts.
  • Microalgae possess a short life cycle, rapid growth, and significant photosynthetic efficiency, making them ideal for sustaining life in space.
  • The research will assess growth parameters and molecular changes in various algal species in space compared to controlled Earth environments.
• Cyanobacteria Study: The second experiment will investigate cyanobacteria like Spirulina and Synechococcus, focusing on their growth in different nitrogen sources (urea versus nitrate) and the effects of microgravity.
  • These organisms are being explored for their potential role in recycling carbon and nitrogen from human waste during space flights and establishing self-sustainability in extraterrestrial habitats.
• DBT-ICGEB Biofoundry: Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined the recent inauguration of the DBT-ICGEB Biofoundry, a cutting-edge facility designed to support biotechnology innovations utilizing AI and other technologies.
  • The Biofoundry will facilitate research in areas such as food, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals, supporting the development of products for various industry sectors.

Strategic Goals and Global Leadership:

• This initiative reflects India's ambition to become a global leader in biotechnology, aligning with Prime Minister Modi's vision for impactful biotechnological advancements.
• The BioE3 policy promotes biomanufacturing across six priority sectors including precision therapeutics and climate-resilient agriculture, fostering innovation and economic growth.

Supporting Voices:

• Dr. Jelena Begovic, President of the ICGEB Board of Governors, expressed appreciation for India’s initiatives in space biotechnology.
• Key figures from the DBT and ICGEB, including Dr. Rajesh Gokhale and Dr. Alka Sharma, participated in the briefing, highlighting the significance of these experiments and facilities.

In summary, India’s pioneering efforts to conduct biological experiments in space mark a significant step toward ensuring the sustainability of human life in extraterrestrial environments. Through these initiatives, India aims to leverage its biotechnological capabilities on a global scale, potentially transforming the future of space exploration and habitation.

Important Points:

• India will conduct its first space biology experiments aboard ISS AXIOM-4.
• The studies will focus on microalgae and cyanobacteria, examining their potential as sustainable food sources and waste recyclers in space.
• The Biofoundry in New Delhi will play a crucial role in biotechnology development.
• Prime Minister Modi's BioE3 strategy supports innovation in biotechnology for economic and environmental benefits.
• Collaborative efforts involve ISRO, NASA, and various Indian biotech institutions.

India has made a significant breakthrough in agricultural research, becoming the first country to develop rice varieties through genome editing technology, as announced by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The development aims to address growing food demands and environmental challenges amid climate change.

Key Points:

• First in the World: India has become the first nation to produce rice varieties via genome editing technology, with seeds expected to be available to farmers within six months after necessary clearances.

• Two New Varieties: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has guided the development of two rice varieties:

  • DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala): Derived from Samba Mahsuri, notable for its high yield and drought tolerance, averaging 5.37 tonnes per hectare, surpassing the 4.5 tonnes per hectare of its parent.
  • Pusa DST Rice 1: Evolved from MTU1010, it outperforms its parent with an yield increase of 9.66% and significantly better resilience against salinity and alkalinity stresses.

• Research and Development Process: The varieties were developed using Site-Directed Nuclease techniques, SDN-1 and SDN-2. Unlike genetic modification involving foreign genes (SDN-3), these methods avoid introducing external genetic material, which proponents argue makes them safer and more acceptable under current agricultural regulations.

• International Approval: The new rice varieties have received acknowledgment from the international research community, based on foundational research published since 2020.

• Criticism and Concerns: Despite the advancements, there is notable dissent. Venugopal Badaravada, a farmers' representative, called for accountability regarding these claims, expressing concerns that the information shared lacked complete transparency and rigorous field testing. Following his statement, he was expelled from the ICAR's governing body.

• Opposition from Activists: The Coalition for a Genetically Modified-Free India criticized the promotion of genome editing as safe and precise, arguing that the technologies involved raise critical issues concerning Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and seed sovereignty for farmers in India. They demand government transparency regarding IPRs connected to the newly released varieties.

• Functionality and Benefits: The new varieties promise not only to enhance yield but also to reduce resource inputs such as water and fertilizers, which could help mitigate environmental impacts such as methane emissions.

In summary, the introduction of genome-edited rice in India marks a major step in agricultural science with potential benefits for food security and crop resilience. However, the announcement has sparked controversy over the implications for farmers' rights and the genetic engineering debate.