Summary of Findings on Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis
Global Health Impact: Mosquito-borne diseases, especially dengue and Japanese encephalitis (JE), are increasing threats due to rapid urbanization, climate change, and enhanced global travel.
Interrelation of Viruses: Both dengue virus and JE virus are part of the Orthoflavivirus genus; their interplay can affect disease outcomes.
Study Overview: Conducted in Nepal from 2019 to 2023, this study analyzed three major dengue outbreaks and the link between prior JE immunity and dengue severity.
Research Context:
- Nepal has a robust JE vaccination program initiated in 2006, resulting in high immunity against JE but limited exposure to dengue prior to recent outbreaks.
Study Demographics:
- Involved 546 dengue patients (aged 15-65) during the first three days of illness.
- Tested for dengue virus serotypes, immune markers, and chymase levels—an enzyme linked to inflammation and severe dengue.
Key Findings:
- Pre-existing Immunity: Approximately 61% of participants had neutralizing antibodies against JE.
- Chymase Levels: Individuals with JE immunity had significantly higher chymase levels, particularly with mid-range antibody titres (1:160).
- Clinical Outcomes: Patients with mid-range JE antibody titres had three times the risk of developing severe dengue compared to those without JE immunity.
Antibody Levels Influence: The study found:
- Moderate antibody levels against JE may worsen dengue outcomes, while very high levels tend to offer protection.
- This creates a vulnerability zone where waning immunity enhances disease risk.
Regional Implications: The changing epidemiology of dengue fever, now causing larger outbreaks in traditionally low-incidence areas, has been attributed to climate change, particularly in regions like India.
Vaccination Insights:
- JE Vaccine Importance: Vaccination has reduced JE incidence, but the protection wanes. After five years, prevalence of neutralizing antibodies drops to about 63%.
- Vaccine Strategy: Introduces the need for timely JE vaccine boosters to maintain immunity and mitigate rising severity of dengue.
Chymase as a Biomarker: The study identifies chymase levels as a vital marker for assessing dengue severity, facilitating early medical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Understanding how waning immunity from one flavivirus impacts another is crucial for public health strategy.
- Timely booster vaccinations for JE may protect against both JE and mitigate severe dengue outcomes.
Significance: This study underscores the necessity for integrated disease control strategies in response to the interconnected nature of viral diseases exacerbated by climate change and global health dynamics.
Key Takeaways for Exam Preparation:
- Recognize the link between JE immunity and dengue severity.
- Understand the importance of monitoring antibody titre levels.
- Note the rise of dengue due to climate change in Asia and the subsequent need for public health strategies.
- Acknowledge chymase as an emerging biomarker for dengue severity.
- The relevance of timely vaccination in maintaining immunity against flavivirus infections.

Summary of Findings on Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis
Global Health Impact: Mosquito-borne diseases, especially dengue and Japanese encephalitis (JE), are increasing threats due to rapid urbanization, climate change, and enhanced global travel.
Interrelation of Viruses: Both dengue virus and JE virus are part of the Orthoflavivirus genus; their interplay can affect disease outcomes.
Study Overview: Conducted in Nepal from 2019 to 2023, this study analyzed three major dengue outbreaks and the link between prior JE immunity and dengue severity.
Research Context:
- Nepal has a robust JE vaccination program initiated in 2006, resulting in high immunity against JE but limited exposure to dengue prior to recent outbreaks.
Study Demographics:
- Involved 546 dengue patients (aged 15-65) during the first three days of illness.
- Tested for dengue virus serotypes, immune markers, and chymase levels—an enzyme linked to inflammation and severe dengue.
Key Findings:
- Pre-existing Immunity: Approximately 61% of participants had neutralizing antibodies against JE.
- Chymase Levels: Individuals with JE immunity had significantly higher chymase levels, particularly with mid-range antibody titres (1:160).
- Clinical Outcomes: Patients with mid-range JE antibody titres had three times the risk of developing severe dengue compared to those without JE immunity.
Antibody Levels Influence: The study found:
- Moderate antibody levels against JE may worsen dengue outcomes, while very high levels tend to offer protection.
- This creates a vulnerability zone where waning immunity enhances disease risk.
Regional Implications: The changing epidemiology of dengue fever, now causing larger outbreaks in traditionally low-incidence areas, has been attributed to climate change, particularly in regions like India.
Vaccination Insights:
- JE Vaccine Importance: Vaccination has reduced JE incidence, but the protection wanes. After five years, prevalence of neutralizing antibodies drops to about 63%.
- Vaccine Strategy: Introduces the need for timely JE vaccine boosters to maintain immunity and mitigate rising severity of dengue.
Chymase as a Biomarker: The study identifies chymase levels as a vital marker for assessing dengue severity, facilitating early medical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Understanding how waning immunity from one flavivirus impacts another is crucial for public health strategy.
- Timely booster vaccinations for JE may protect against both JE and mitigate severe dengue outcomes.
Significance: This study underscores the necessity for integrated disease control strategies in response to the interconnected nature of viral diseases exacerbated by climate change and global health dynamics.
Key Takeaways for Exam Preparation:
- Recognize the link between JE immunity and dengue severity.
- Understand the importance of monitoring antibody titre levels.
- Note the rise of dengue due to climate change in Asia and the subsequent need for public health strategies.
- Acknowledge chymase as an emerging biomarker for dengue severity.
- The relevance of timely vaccination in maintaining immunity against flavivirus infections.

Global Growth of Traditional Medicine
Summary of Key Facts on Traditional Medicine and Ayurveda
Global Scope:
- Traditional medicine is practiced in 88% of WHO member states (170 out of 194 countries).
- It serves as primary healthcare for billions, especially in low- and middle-income nations due to its accessibility and affordability.
Market Growth:
- Global traditional medicine market projected to reach $583 billion by 2025, with annual growth rates of 10%-20%.
- Sector valuations include:
- China’s Traditional Chinese Medicine: $122.4 billion.
- Australia’s Herbal Medicine: $3.97 billion.
- India’s AYUSH sector: $43.4 billion.
Transformation in India:
- The AYUSH sector includes over 92,000 MSMEs and has expanded nearly eight-fold in less than a decade.
- Revenue growth in the manufacturing sector from ₹21,697 crore (2014-15) to over ₹1.37 lakh crore.
- The services sector generates ₹1.67 lakh crore in revenue.
Global Exports:
- India exports AYUSH and herbal products worth $1.54 billion to over 150 countries.
- Ayurveda recognized as a medical system in several nations, improving India’s economic opportunity and soft power.
Public Awareness and Use:
- National Sample Survey Office (2022-23) showed:
- 95% awareness in rural areas and 96% in urban centres.
- Over 50% of the population reported using AYUSH systems the previous year, with Ayurveda as the preferred choice for rejuvenation and preventive care.
- National Sample Survey Office (2022-23) showed:
Research Initiatives:
- India invests in traditional medicine research through institutions like:
- All India Institute of Ayurveda.
- Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda.
- National Institute of Ayurveda.
- Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences.
- India invests in traditional medicine research through institutions like:
International Cooperation and Agreements:
- Ministry of AYUSH’s International Cooperation Scheme led to:
- 25 bilateral agreements and 52 institutional partnerships.
- Establishment of 43 AYUSH Information Cells in 39 countries and 15 academic chairs at foreign universities.
- Ministry of AYUSH’s International Cooperation Scheme led to:
WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre:
- Located in India, aiming to integrate traditional medicine with modern science and technologies, including AI.
- WHO publication emphasizes AI’s role in enhancing clinical validation and predictive care in traditional medicine systems.
Holistic Philosophy of Ayurveda:
- Ayurveda emphasizes balance between body, mind, humans, and nature, making it a comprehensive solution for contemporary health and environmental challenges.
- Its relevance extends beyond human wellness to include veterinary care and plant health.
Upcoming Observance:
- Ayurveda Day celebrated on September 23, with the theme for 2025 being "Ayurveda for People & Planet."
Health Care Approach:
- India’s effort to mainstream traditional medicine emphasizes preventive, affordable, inclusive, and sustainable healthcare.
- Ayurveda is framed as a movement that connects traditional knowledge with modern needs, enhancing its role in global health architecture.
This summary underscores the vital role of traditional medicine and Ayurveda, reflecting a blend of ancient wisdom and modern scientific advancements, positioning them as integral to future health policy and practice.
Science and Technology

Perplexity Launches AI Browser Comet
Summary of Perplexity’s AI Browser Launch: Comet
- Product Launch: Perplexity announced its AI browser, Comet, targeted primarily at professionals using the internet for work and research.
- Availability:
- Initially launched in July 2025.
- Currently available for Pro subscribers on Mac and Windows platforms.
- Android versions are available for pre-order on the Google Play Store, but no specific release date is provided.
- Features:
- AI Assistant: Comet includes a feature called Comet Assistant, which automates routine tasks such as:
- Managing tabs
- Summarizing emails and calendar events
- Navigating through web pages
- Unique Interface: Differentiates itself from traditional browsers (e.g., Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge) by offering a dedicated workspace for information access.
- Reading Tracking: Monitors user activity to suggest relevant content and keep track of materials being used.
- Task Automation: Allows users to issue text-based commands to the AI assistant for functions such as purchasing products, scheduling meetings, or converting web pages into emails.
- AI Assistant: Comet includes a feature called Comet Assistant, which automates routine tasks such as:
- Future Developments: Perplexity plans to enhance the browser’s capabilities and features in the future.
This summary serves to outline key aspects of Perplexity's Comet browser, highlighting its innovative approach to merging AI functionality with web browsing in a professional context.
Science and Technology

Exploring Contributions of Indian Scientists
C.V. Raman:
- First and only Indian Nobel Laureate in Physics.
- Renowned for contributions to the understanding of light scattering, known as the Raman Effect.
Meghnad Saha:
- Notable for contributions to astrophysics.
- Known for developing the Saha Equation, which explains the thermal ionization of elements.
- Advocated for the application of science for public welfare, highlighting a difference in approach from Raman.
Career and Influence:
- Both scientists were active during the colonial era and received their education in Calcutta.
- Raman moved to Bangalore due to political dissatisfaction, influencing the establishment of scientific institutes.
Scientific Contributions:
- Raman's research led to key discoveries in physics, with implications in both science and technology.
- Saha’s work influenced the field of astronomy and sparked interests in the thermal properties of stars, aiding in understanding stellar atmospheres.
Contextual Background:
- The podcast references their differing perspectives: Raman's apolitical approach versus Saha's focus on societal impact through science.
Legacy:
- Both scientists have left a significant legacy within the Indian scientific community, influencing future generations and promoting the importance of science in addressing societal issues.
Historical Significance:
- Their collaborations and individual journeys reflect the wider narrative of Indian science during the colonial period, showcasing the impact of colonialism on scientific development.
This summary highlights the key contributions and significance of C.V. Raman and Meghnad Saha in the realm of science, particularly during India's colonial era, along with their differing philosophies and influences on society.
Science and Technology

Global Growth of Traditional Medicine
Summary of Traditional Medicine Insights
WHO Insights on Traditional Medicine:
- 88% of WHO member states (170 out of 194) practice traditional medicine.
- Traditional medicine is crucial for health care in low- and middle-income countries due to accessibility and affordability.
- It contributes to biodiversity conservation, nutrition security, and sustainable livelihoods.
Market Growth Projections:
- The global traditional medicine market projected to reach $583 billion by 2025, with annual growth rates of 10%-20%.
- China: Traditional Chinese medicine valued at $122.4 billion.
- Australia: Herbal medicine industry valued at $3.97 billion.
- India: AYUSH sector valued at $43.4 billion.
India's AYUSH Sector:
- The AYUSH industry includes Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.
- The sector has grown eight-fold in less than a decade.
- Manufacturing sector revenue rose from ₹21,697 crore in 2014-15 to over ₹1.37 lakh crore; services sector revenue reached ₹1.67 lakh crore.
- India exports AYUSH products worth $1.54 billion to over 150 countries.
Public Awareness and Usage:
- National Sample Survey Office (2022-23) found 95% awareness of AYUSH in rural areas and 96% in urban centres.
- Over 50% of the population used AYUSH systems in the past year, with Ayurveda preferred for rejuvenation and preventive care.
Research and Development:
- Significant investment in AYUSH research through institutions like:
- All India Institute of Ayurveda
- Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda
- National Institute of Ayurveda
- Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences
- Focus on clinical validation, drug standardisation, and integrative care models.
International Collaboration:
- The Ministry of AYUSH’s International Cooperation Scheme:
- 25 bilateral agreements and 52 institutional partnerships.
- 43 AYUSH Information Cells in 39 countries.
- 15 academic chairs established in foreign universities.
WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre:
- Established in India to integrate traditional medicine into modern science and digital health.
- Emphasis on using emerging technologies like AI for clinical validation, big-data analytics, and predictive care.
Ayurveda's Holistic Approach:
- Core philosophy emphasizes balance—between body and mind, humans and nature, and conservation.
- Addresses personal wellness and global issues such as lifestyle diseases and climate change.
- Envisions a comprehensive approach to health, including veterinary and plant health.
2025 Focus Theme:
- Theme “Ayurveda for People & Planet” announced for September 23 (Ayurveda Day).
- Highlights the potential of traditional knowledge systems for a balanced and sustainable future.
Conclusion:
- India is aimed at mainstreaming traditional medicine globally, promoting an approach that is preventive, affordable, inclusive, and sustainable.
- The integration of ancient wisdom with modern technology stresses the growing importance of traditional medicine in global health architecture.
Key Points:
- WHO states 88% of countries practice traditional medicine.
- Traditional medicine market to reach $583 billion by 2025.
- AYUSH sector has grown remarkably, contributing significant revenue.
- High public awareness and usage of AYUSH systems in India.
- Extensive international cooperation and research investments in Ayush.
- WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre established in India.
- Ayurveda offers holistic health solutions addressing modern challenges.
- 2025 theme emphasizes sustainable health through traditional knowledge.
Science and Technology

Perplexity Launches AI Browser Comet
Summary of Perplexity’s AI Browser - Comet
Launch & Availability:
- Perplexity’s AI browser, Comet, launched in July 2025.
- Currently available for Pro subscribers in India.
- Available on Mac and Windows; pre-orders for Android on Google Play Store.
Target Audience:
- Aimed at individuals who rely on the internet for work, research, and other tasks.
Key Features:
Comet Assistant: Functions as an AI agent to automate routine tasks:
- Manages tabs, summarizes emails and calendar events.
- Navigates web pages autonomously.
User Interface:
- Unlike traditional browsers (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge), Comet uses a workspace design for easy access to necessary information.
- Tracks user activity to recommend relevant content.
AI Sidebar:
- Offers functionalities like:
- Sending emails by converting web pages into email formats.
- Scheduling meetings and making purchases through text-based commands.
- Offers functionalities like:
Future Developments:
- Perplexity plans to enhance Comet’s features further in upcoming updates.
Market Position:
- Introduces innovative functionalities aiming to differentiate itself from existing browsers.
Science and Technology

Colonial Scientists CV Raman and Meghnad Saha
C.V. Raman:
- First and only Indian Nobel Laureate in Physics.
- Noted for scientific contributions; focused on pure science and unraveling universal mysteries.
- Established the Raman Research Institute in Bangalore after migrating from Calcutta.
Meghnad Saha:
- Distinguished for his contributions to science, particularly in astrophysics.
- Came from a different socio-economic background, which shaped his commitment to utilizing science for public benefit.
Key Context:
- Both scientists’ paths intersected in Calcutta, which was a hub for scientific development during colonial India.
- Political atmosphere of the time influenced their decisions and careers, highlighting the intersection of science and socio-political factors.
Educational and Scientific Contributions:
- C.V. Raman's work led to the establishment of the Raman Effect, which explains changes in the wavelength of light.
- Meghnad Saha is known for the Saha equation, essential in astrophysics and explaining the physical and chemical conditions of stars.
Historical Significance:
- Their work contributes to India's legacy in science, reinforcing the importance of academic freedom and the impact of scientific research on society.
Cultural Impact:
- Both figures represent the era of scientific exploration during colonial rule in India, illustrating a diverse approach towards science influenced by contemporary challenges.
Podcast Reference:
- The Rearview Podcast aims to share insights into the history of science through detailed narratives and interpretations of scientists' lives and their work.
These notes encapsulate key details about C.V. Raman and Meghnad Saha's contributions to science and their influence in the context of India's sociopolitical environment during the colonial period.
Science and Technology

India Secures Rights for PMS Exploration
Summary Notes on India's Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration
Historic Milestone: India has secured exclusive rights for the exploration of Polymetallic Sulphides (PMS) in the Carlsberg Ridge in the Indian Ocean as announced by Science Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Pioneering Role: This makes India the first country globally to hold two exploration contracts with the International Seabed Authority (ISA) for PMS, reinforcing its strategic presence in deep-sea resource exploration.
Contract Details:
- Duration: A new 15-year contract has been signed between the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and ISA.
- Area: The exploration is designated in a 10,000 square kilometers area of the Carlsberg Ridge.
Economic Significance of Polymetallic Sulphides: PMS are rich in valuable metals including:
- Iron
- Copper
- Zinc
- Silver
- Gold
- Platinum
Deep Ocean Mission: Launched by PM Narendra Modi, the mission focuses on:
- Seabed mineral exploration
- Development of mining technology
- Strengthening India’s Blue Economy Initiatives
International Seabed Authority Partnership:
- India has a 30-year association with ISA and is recognized as a "Pioneer Investor," being the first country to obtain an area for polymetallic nodule exploration in international waters.
- Currently holds the largest exploration area for PMS in the international seabed, consolidating its leadership in deep-sea research.
Future Implications:
- The new contract is expected to enhance India’s maritime presence and develop national capacity for future resource utilization.
- There is a commitment from India to generate scientific knowledge about unexplored seabed ecosystems while ensuring protection of the marine environment.
Upcoming Events:
- India will host the 8th ISA Annual Contractors Meeting from 18–20 September in Goa.
Government Initiatives:
- The signing of the second PMS exploration contract was facilitated by the MoES and the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), signifying a strong cooperation with ISA.
These notes reflect India's advancing role in the international seabed exploration initiative and its commitment to harnessing marine resources for humanity's benefit.
Science and Technology

AIIFA Steelex 2025: Sustainable Steel Launch
Event Overview:
- Inauguration of AIIFA STEELEX-2025 and the 37th National Conference on Sustainable Steel in Mumbai.
Key Speakers:
- Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries, Prahlad Joshi, emphasized green steel's strategic importance for India’s sustainable growth.
Government Initiatives:
- PM-KUSUM Scheme: Recognized as "Maharashtra Model," supports the transition to sustainable development.
- Maharashtra’s Green Hydrogen Policy: Target to achieve 5 lakh TPA of Green Hydrogen capacity by 2030; establishment of Pune Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster.
- National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM):
- Allocation: ₹19,744 crore.
- Goals: Produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, add 125 GW renewable energy capacity, attract ₹8 lakh crore investment, create 6 lakh jobs, and prevent 50 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Current Projects:
- Five pilot projects in the steel sector worth ₹132 crore underway.
- Development of major Green Hydrogen Hubs in Kandla, Paradip, and Tuticorin.
New Schemes Launched:
- Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme.
- Green Hydrogen Safety Panel.
- National Single Window Portal for Green Hydrogen & Electrolyser Manufacturing.
Market Dynamics:
- Highlighted price projections: Green hydrogen expected to drop below $2/kg by 2030, influenced by reductions in renewable energy costs.
- Comparison of energy costs: Solar and hybrid power at ₹4.5 per unit vs. thermal power at ₹6.5 per unit.
- Impact of GST cuts on renewable energy equipment:
- Reduced to 5% which will lower solar pump costs for farmers by ₹1,750 crore.
- Roof solar systems costs reduction of ₹9,000–10,500 per unit.
Strategic Agreements:
- Seven strategic MoUs signed, worth ₹25,560 crore; projected to create 22,600 jobs and develop Vidarbha as India’s steel hub.
Future Outlook:
- Emphasis on readiness for global trade measures like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
- Vision for exporting up to 50 million tonnes of steel annually amidst expanding FTAs and domestic reforms.
AIIFA Overview:
- Represents over 1,800 members in the steel manufacturing sector advocating for sustainable growth and advancements in steel-making technology.
- Aims at enhancing product quality while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Green Certification:
- Launched to recognize steel manufacturers excelling in decarbonization and energy efficiency.
Key Quotes:
- Union Minister: "Green steel is now viable and scalable... rooted in affordability, quality, and environmental responsibility."
- Chief Minister: Acknowledged the emergence of a new market for green steel, underscoring collective responsibility for strategic progress.
Conclusion:
- The concerted efforts in promoting green steel and hydrogen technologies are positioned as critical for India’s industrial transformation and sustainable future.
Economic and Social Development

Chiral Perovskite Films for Optoelectronics
Summary Notes on Chiral Perovskite Films Research
- Topic: Development of chiral perovskite films for next-generation optoelectronic devices.
- Key Properties: Chirality (non-superimposable on its mirror image) that enables unique light-matter interactions, crucial for advanced technology applications like circularly polarized light (CPL) detectors and spintronic devices.
- Materials Focus:
- Chiral Perovskites: Combinations of chiral molecules with halide perovskites show promise due to enhanced performance.
- Limitations: Traditional chiral materials have poor electrical charge transport, hindering their use in optoelectronic devices.
- Research Institution: Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
- Key Findings:
- Crystallization Mechanism: Insight into how chiral perovskite films crystallize, specifically in methylbenzylammonium copper bromide ((R/S-MBA)₂CuBr₄).
- Crystallization Process: Begins at the air-film interface and moves towards the substrate.
- Impurity Control: Identified that unwanted 1D impurity phases due to residual solvent during cooling can affect device quality.
- Vacuum Processing: Using vacuum processing and selective solvents to reduce impurities leads to more uniform films.
- Observation Duration: Crystal growth monitored over two weeks, illustrating the evolution of small grains into organized structures.
- Applications: The research paves the way for devices such as:
- CPL detectors
- Spintronic elements
- Photonic synapses
- Future Work: Development of photodetectors based on the researched chiral perovskite films.
- National Relevance: Aligns with India’s objectives to enhance research in semiconductor and optoelectronic manufacturing, positioning the country for leadership in advanced light-based and quantum technologies.
Important Points
- Chirality: Significant for unique interactions in materials science, affecting electron spin control and CPL detection.
- Material Advantages: Halide perovskites provide good charge transport, making them suitable for optoelectronic applications.
- Research Impact: Understanding crystallization mechanisms is crucial for producing phase-pure and oriented chiral perovskite films, enhancing device performance.
- Strategic Implication: Mastery of these materials is essential for India’s advancement in quantum technology fields.
This summary encapsulates the research's critical aspects useful for understanding the advancements in optoelectronics and applications of chiral materials in technology development.
Science and Technology

India's National Geothermal Energy Policy
New National Policy on Geothermal Energy: India's recent policy announced by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) aims to enhance geothermal energy utilization, leveraging international collaboration for commercial viability.
International Collaborations: Research firms from the US, Iceland, and Norway are interested in pilot projects in regions like the Gulf of Cambay, Arunachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The government seeks to explore technological collaborations with the US and Indonesia for enhanced geothermal systems.
Geothermal Energy Basics: Geothermal energy is harnessed from the Earth's heat, capable of generating electricity through steam. It utilizes hot water springs and deep reservoirs, with applications in heating, cooling, greenhouses, and aquaculture.
Detection of Hot Springs: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 381 hot springs across India, with surface temperatures ranging from 35°C to 89°C.
Estimation of Geothermal Potential: India has an estimated geothermal potential of 10.6 gigawatts (GW), primarily located in:
- Himalayan Geothermal Province: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh.
- Cambay Graben: Gujarat, including abandoned oil wells.
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Economic Impact: Utilizing geothermal energy could significantly reduce electricity costs in remote areas, e.g., Andaman's costs could drop from ₹30-32 per unit to about ₹10-11; Ladakh’s heating needs can also be met with geothermal sources.
Global Context: Less than 17 GW of geothermal energy is currently harnessed worldwide, with the US, Indonesia, and Philippines leading. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts India's geothermal capacity could reach 4.2 GW by 2035 and nearly 100 GW by 2045, attributing significant market potential to China, the US, and India.
Refurbishing Oil Wells: Oil and gas firms are repurposing abandoned wells for geothermal energy. IIT Madras is piloting a project in Barmer, Rajasthan, aimed at retrofitting unproductive oil wells to generate electricity.
Funding Challenges: The developement costs stand at approximately ₹36 crore per megawatt (MW). The new policy includes financial support for R&D and pilot projects and suggests a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme.
Policy Framework: The MNRE's National Policy on Geothermal Energy facilitates cooperation between stakeholders, including the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and supports the commercial design and technical feasibility of geothermal projects.
Future Directions: The MNRE aims to expedite project approvals, having already sanctioned five projects since the policy's announcement. The policy responds to previous recommendations from a task force established in August 2024 to harness geothermal energy in India.
These key points summarize India's initiatives and strategies in developing geothermal energy, highlighting potential economic benefits, international collaborations, and challenges faced in the sector.
Economic and Social Development

HCL and OIL Collaborate on Minerals
Summary of HCL and OIL MoU for Critical Mineral Collaboration
Date of MoU: September 19, 2025.
Parties Involved:
Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL):
- Status: Miniratna PSU under the Ministry of Mines.
- Focus: Mining, production, processing, and marketing of copper and related products.
- Current Activities: Mining and beneficiation of copper ore; sale of copper concentrate.
Oil India Limited (OIL):
- Status: Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.
- Focus: Integrated oil and gas exploration, development, production, and transportation.
Objective of MoU:
- To collaborate on the exploration and development of critical and strategic minerals, particularly copper and associated minerals.
- To boost India's self-reliance in critical mineral sourcing.
Strategic Importance:
- Aligns with the Government of India’s National Critical Mineral Mission aimed at enhancing mineral security.
- Supports India’s energy security, industrial growth, and technological advancement.
Key Figures:
- Representatives present during the signing: Mr. Sanjiv Kumar Singh (Chairman and Managing Director, HCL) and Dr. Ranjit Rath (Chairman & Managing Director, OIL).
Significance of Critical Minerals:
- Recognized as essential for the development and sustainability of various sectors, including energy and technology.
This collaboration marks a significant development in India's approach to securing critical mineral resources necessary for its energy and industrial strategies.
Economic and Social Development

ICGS Adamya Commissioned at Paradip Port
Summary of ICGS Adamya Commissioning
- Commissioning Details: ICGS ‘Adamya’, the first of eight Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), was commissioned at Paradip Port, Odisha, on September 19, 2025.
- Indigenous Development: Designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited, ICGS Adamya showcases the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative with over 60% indigenous content, enhancing India's maritime capabilities.
- Operational Control: The vessel will operate under the administrative control of the Commander, ICG Region (North East), based in Paradip, Odisha.
- Specifications:
- Length: 51 meters
- Displacement: Approximately 320 tons
- Propulsion: Two diesel engines (3000 KW) enabling a maximum speed of 28 knots.
- Endurance: 1500 nautical miles at economical speed.
- Design Features: It is the first vessel equipped with indigenously developed controllable pitch propellers and gearboxes, promoting superior maneuverability and operational flexibility.
- Armament: The vessel is equipped with:
- 30 mm CRN 91 gun
- Two 12.7 mm stabilized remote-controlled machine guns
- Technological Advancements: It includes an Integrated Bridge System, Integrated Platform Management System, and Automated Power Management System, enhancing operational efficiency and automation.
- Crew Composition: The vessel is staffed with five officers and 34 personnel, focusing on surveillance and safeguarding maritime interests as outlined in the ICG charter.
- Significance: The commissioning of ICGS Adamya reflects India's commitment to enhancing maritime security and ensuring safe, secure, and clean seas.
This summary highlights key aspects of the commissioning, including specifications, operational details, and the significance of the vessel in bolstering India's maritime capabilities.
National and international importance

Chiral Perovskites in Optoelectronics Advancements
Summary of Advancements in Chiral Perovskite Films for Optoelectronics
Chirality in Materials Science: Chirality refers to the property of an object that is non-superimposable on its mirror image, important in creating unique light-matter interactions, crucial for future technologies in quantum optoelectronics and advanced sensors.
Chiral Perovskite Films: Researchers have discovered methods to create phase-pure chiral perovskite films, which exhibit improved electrical properties and can enhance the performance of optoelectronic devices such as circularly polarized light detectors and spintronic components.
Research Achievements: Led by the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, the study focused on the crystallization of methylbenzylammonium copper bromide ((R/S-MBA)₂CuBr₄), revealing that crystallization starts at the air-film interface and progresses to the substrate.
Quality Control during Crystallization: The findings indicated that high-quality films are achieved through controlled solvent evaporation, minimizing the formation of impurity phases which can degrade device quality.
Vacuum Processing Benefits: The team demonstrated that using vacuum processing and careful solvent selection suppresses unwanted impurities, resulting in more uniform chiral perovskite films.
Future Directions: The research lays the groundwork for developing new devices, with ongoing efforts to fabricate photodetectors based on these advanced materials.
Strategic Importance for India: With India emphasizing research in semiconductors and optoelectronics, mastery of these materials could significantly enhance its position in light-based and quantum technologies.
Key Points:
- Chirality in perovskite films is vital for advanced optoelectronic applications.
- The CeNS research highlights crystallization mechanisms crucial for device development.
- Quality control in film creation is essential for optimal performance in devices.
- The study positions India as a potential leader in next-generation technologies.
Science and Technology