Paper-3, Booklet-2, S&T-Environment Mng

b. Centre can prescribe environment quality standards for emissions and effluents, regulate industrial locations, collect and dismantle environment pollution information, establish safeguards protecting environment and prescribe procedure to handle hazardous substances. c. Gives central government authority power to regulate water, electricity to an industry and power to inspect, examine industries. d. Citizens can file a suit alleging an offense under this act. 5. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 a. Establishment of state wildlife boards, create Schedules I [endangered], II [special protection], III [big game], IV [small game], V [vermin] of animals to categorize them, establish sanctuaries and national parks, permit capture of wild animals for hunting, penalties for violations, regulate hunting. 6. Forest Conservation Act, 1980 a. Categorizes forests into reserved, village, protected and private. A state may declare a forestland or wasteland as a reserve forest and sell produce from it. Any unauthorized felling, quarrying, grazing is an offense. Reserved forests assigned to a village are village forests. b. State government can declare a forest as protected and prohibit any commercial exploitation there. Any diversion of forest land for non forest use needs approval of the center. 7. Biodiversity Act, 2002: National Biodiversity Authority at the center, State Biodiversity Boards and District Biodiversity Management Committees to be setup. All foreign organizations and nationals need to obtain permission of the NBA before accessing biological resources or knowledge for use. All monetary benefits arising out of approvals granted by NBA are to be deposited in the national biodiversity fund. Prior permission of state biodiversity boards needed before biological resources can be imported. NBA can impose terms to ensure equitable sharing of benefits. Before applying for any I.P.R abroad on basis of biological resource obtained from India, NBA approval is needed. 101

NBA has the powers of a civil court. State government can declare national heritage sites after consulting local governments. Center can issue directives to states if it feels a naturally rich area is threatened by overuse, abuse, neglect. 8. Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules 2018  The phasing out of Multi-layered Plastic (MLP) is now applicable only to MLP that are ―non-recyclable or non-energy recoverable or have no alternate use‖.  MLP is most widely used in food packing Industries.  The amended Rules prescribe a central registration system for the registration of the producer/importer/brand owner.  The system will be evolved by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).  National registry has been prescribed for producers with presence in more than two states.  A state-level registration has been prescribed for smaller producers/brand owners operating within one or two states.  Any mechanism for the registration should be automated.  It should take into account ease of doing business for producers, recyclers and manufacturers. 9. CRZ Regulations 2019  To promote sustainable development based on scientific principles taking into account the natural hazards  To conserve and protect the environment of coastal stretches and marine areas, besides livelihood security to the fisher communities and other local communities.  Two separate categories for CRZ-III (Rural) areas  CRZ-III A: The A category of CRZ-III areas are densely populated rural areas with a population density of 2161 per square kilometre as per 2011 Census. Such areas have a No Development Zone (NDZ) of 50 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL) as against 200 meters from the High Tide Line stipulated in the CRZ Notification, 2011.  CRZ-III B: The B category of CRZ-III rural areas has population density of below 2161 per square kilometre as per 2011 Census. Such areas have a No Development Zone of 200 meters from the HTL.  Floor Space Index Norms eased: As per CRZ, 2011 Notification, the Floor Space Index (FSI) or the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) had been frozen. As per the latest notification, the 102

government has decided to de-freeze the Floor Space Index and permit FSI for construction projects.  Tourism infrastructure permitted in coastal areas: The new norms permit temporary tourism facilities such as shacks, toilet blocks, change rooms, drinking water facilities, etc. in Beaches.  Streamlining of CRZ Clearances: The procedure for CRZ clearances has been streamlined. Now, the only such projects which are located in the CRZ-I (Ecologically Sensitive Areas) and CRZ IV (area covered between Low Tide Line and 12 Nautical Miles seaward) will be dealt with for CRZ clearance by the Ministry. The powers for clearances with respect to CRZ-II and III have been delegated at the State level.  No Development Zone of 20 meters for all Islands: For islands close to the main land coast and for all Backwater Islands in the main land, No Development Zone of 20 meters has been stipulated in wake of space limitations and unique geography of such regions.  Pollution abatement: To address pollution in Coastal areas, the treatment facilities have been made permissible in CRZ-I B area subject to necessary safeguards.  Critically Vulnerable Coastal Areas (CVCA): Sundarban region of West Bengal and other ecologically sensitive areas identified as under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 such as Gulf of Khambat and Gulf of Kutchh in Gujarat, Achra-Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Karwar and Coondapur in Karnataka, Vembanad in Kerala, Gulf of Mannar in Tamil Nadu, Bhaitarkanika in Odisha and Krishna in Andhra Pradesh are treated as Critical Vulnerable Coastal Areas. These Critical Vulnerable Coastal Areas will be managed with the involvement of coastal communities including fisher folk. 10. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 (No. 19 of 2010) (NGT Act) has been enacted with the objectives to provide for establishment of a National Green Tribunal (NGT) for the effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environment protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment and giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. 11. Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management & Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2019:  Solid plastic waste has been prohibited from import into the country including in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and by Export Oriented Units (EOU). 103

 Exporters of silk waste have now been given exemption from requiring permission from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.  Electrical and electronic assemblies and components manufactured in and exported from India, if found defective can now be imported back into the country, within a year of export, without obtaining permission from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.  Industries which do not require consent under Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981, are now exempted from requiring authorization also under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management &Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016, provided that hazardous and other wastes generated by such industries are handed over to the authorized actual users, waste collectors or disposal facilities. 12. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex body constituted in the Ministry of Environment and Forests under ‗Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells 1989‘, under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. The Rules of 1989 also define five competent authorities i.e. the Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBSC), Review Committee of Genetic Manipulation (RCGM), Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC), State Biotechnology Coordination Committee (SBCC) and DistrictLevel Committee (DLC) for handling of various aspects of the rules. Aim of ‗Rules 1989‘ is to protect environment, nature and health in connection with application of gene technology and micro-organisms.These rules cover areas of research as well as large scale applications of GMOs and their products including experimental field trials and seed production. 13. The Ozone Depleting Substances Rules  The rules are framed under the jurisdiction of Environment (Protection) Act. These Rules set the deadlines for phasing out of various ODSs, besides regulating production, trade import and export of ODSs and the product containing ODS.  These Rules prohibit the use of CFCs in manufacturing various products beyond 1st January 2003 except in metered dose inhaler and for other medical purposes.  Similarly, use of halons is prohibited after 1st January 2001 except for essential use. Other ODSs such as carbon tetrachloride and methylchoroform and CFC for metered dose inhalers can be used upto 1st January 2010.  Further, the use of methyl bromide has been allowed upto 1st January 2015. 104

 Since HCFCs are used as interim substitute to replace CFC, these are allowed up to 1stJanuary 2040. 14. National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA):  National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) is a financing, planning, implementing, monitoring and coordinating authority for the Ganges River, functioning under the Ministry of Water Resources. The mission of the organization is to safeguard the drainage basin which feeds water into the Ganges by protecting it from pollution or overuse.  In 2014, the NGRBA has been transferred from the Ministry of Environment and Forests to the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation.  It was established by the Central Government of India, in 2009 under Section 3(3) of the Environment Protection Act, 1986, which also declared Ganges as the ‗National River‘ of India. 15. The Scheduled Tribes And Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition Of Forest Rights) Act, 2006: Forest Rights Act, 2006 provides for the restitution of deprived forest rights across India. The Act is provides scope of integrating conservation and livelihood rights of the people. FRA is tool  To empower and strengthen the local self- governance  To address the livelihood security of the people  To address the issue of conservation and management of natural resources and conservation governance of India. 16. Animal Welfare Board of India:  Statutory advisory body advising the Government of India on animal welfare laws, and promotes animal welfare in the countryof India.  It works to ensure that animal welfare laws in the country are followed; provides grants to Animal Welfare Organizations; and considers itself ―the face of the animal welfare movement in the country.‖  It was established in 1960 under Section 4 of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act,1960. Well- known humanitarian Rukmini Devi Arundale was instrumental in setting up the board.  The subject of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is under MoEF 17. Wetlands (Conservation And Management) Rules 2010: 105

 MoEF has notified the rules in order to ensure that there is no further degradation of wetlands.  The rules specify activities which are harmful to wetlands such as industrialization, construction, dumping of untreated waste and reclamation and prohibit these activities in the wetlands.  Other activities such as harvesting and dredging may be carried out in the wetlands but only with prior permission from the concerned authorities  Under the Rules, wetlands have been classified for better management and easier identification.  Central Wetland Regulatory Authority has been set up to ensure proper implementation of the Rules. 18. E-Waste Management Rules :  Manufacturer, dealer, refurbisher and Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) have been introduced as additional stakeholders in the rules.  The applicability of the rules has been extended to components, consumables, spares and parts of EEE in addition to equipment.  E-waste rules will now include Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) and other mercury containing lamps, as well as other such equipment.  The new Rules will bring the producers under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), along with targets. Producers have been made responsible for collection of E-waste and for its exchange i.e. the bulk consumers have to collect the items and hand them over to authorized recyclers.  Various producers can have a separate Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) and ensure collection of E-waste, as well as its disposal in an environmentally sound manner.  Under the new rules the role of State Governments is to ensure safety, health and skill development of the workers involved in dismantling and recycling operations.  Provision of penalty for violation of rules has been introduced.  The process of dismantling and recycling has been simplified through one system of authorization and that the Central Pollution Control Board will give the single authorization throughout the country  Deposit Refund Scheme has been introduced as an additional economic instrument wherein the producer charges an additional amount as a deposit at the time of sale of the electrical and electronic equipment and returns it to the consumer along with interest when the end-of life electrical and electronic equipment is returned. 106

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PAST YEAR QUESTIONS Q1.Why is there so much activity in the field of biotechnology in our country? How has this activity benefitted the field of biopharma? (2018) Q2. Discuss the work of ‗Bose-Einstein Statistics‘ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionized the field of Physics. (2018) Q3. Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including Leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments? (2017) Q4. India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Explain critically. (2017) Q5. Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India? (2017) Q6. Discuss India‘s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development? (2016) Q7. Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of IndianGovernment‘s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country. (2016) Q8. India‘s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) which has a database containing formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations is proving a powerful weapon in the country‘s fight against erroneous patents. Discuss the pros and cons making this database publicly available under open-source licensing (2015) Q9.What are the areas of prohibitive labour that can be sustainably managed by robots? Discuss the initiatives that can propel research in premier research institutes for substantive and gainful innovation. (2015) 108

Q10. What do you understand by ‗Standard Positioning Systems‘ and ‗Protection Positioning Systems‘ in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015) Q11.In a globalised world, intellectual property rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms – copyrights, patents and trade secrets. (2014) Q12. Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as our business operations, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer oriented. Critically comment. (2014) Q13. Can overuse and the availability of antibiotics without doctor‘s prescription, the contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. (2014) Q14. What do you understand by Umpire decision review in cricket? Discuss its various components. Explain how silicon tape on the edge of a bat may fool the system? (2013) Q15. What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their applications in aviation and automobile industry. (2013) 109

NANOTECHNOLOGY Nanotechnology is science, engineering, and technology conducted at the nano-scale, which is about 1 to 100 nanometers. Nanoscience and nanotechnology involve the ability to see and to control individual atoms and molecules. The field of nanotechnology concentrates on three main areas: 1. Identifying the chemical and physical changes that occurs at the nanoscale. 2. Developing new tools to measure, and new chemistry to make, highly miniaturized structure. 3. Using the chemical and physical changes that occur at the nanoscale to develop new technologies. APPLICATIONS OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 1. Nanotechnology in medical field: Nanotechnology provides new options for drug delivery and drug therapies such as in cancer. It enables drugs to be delivered to precisely the right location in the body and release drug doses on a predetermined schedule for optimal treatment and attach the drug to a nanosized carrier. They become localized at the disease site. Nanotechnology can locate & eliminate cancer cell using gold Nano cells. Nanotechnology holds the key to stopping antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the deadly infections they cause. 2. Nanotechnology in space: Employing materials made made from carbon nanotubes to reduce the weight of space ships. Including layers of bio-nano robots in spacesuits. The outer layer of bio-nano robots would respond to damages to the spacesuit, for example, to seal up punctures. 3. Nanotechnology in reducing water pollution: Nanoparticles can be used to convert the contaminating chemicals in the industrial water through a chemical reaction to make it harmless. A de-ionisation method using electrodes composed of nano-sized fibres can be used for reducing the cost and energy requirements of turning salt water into drinking water. 110

4. Nanotechnology in defence: It will be useful in intelligence gathering through difficult to detect sensors/cameras/recording devices. Precision guiding tools for snipers/others who use fire motor shells. 5. Nanotechnology in Electronics field: Nanotechnology has modernized the electronics industry and allowed transistors to be scaled down to quantum dimensions. It enabled the further miniaturization of logic and memory devices. 6. Nanotechnology in computers: The silicon transistors in computer may be replaced by transistors based on carbon nanotubes. A carbon nanotube is a molecule in form of a hollow cylinder with a diameter of around a nanometer which consists of pure carbon. Nanorods are a forthcoming technology in the displays techniques due to less consumption of electricity and less heat emission. 7. Nanotechnology in food and agriculture safety: This technology is used to improve the quality of food. Nano fertilizers are used to regulate the release of nutrients depending on the requirements of the crops. Hybrid polymers such as smart packaging are used to reduce spoilage and sensors for detection of food-borne pathogens. Nanosensors can detect level of nutrients or water in crops. NANOTECHNOLOGY IN INDIA India ranks third in the number of researches in the field of nanotechnology after China and USA. According to a report by ASSOCHAM and TechSci Research study, the global nanotechnology industry would require about two million professionals from 2015 onwards and India is expected to contribute about 25% professionals in the coming years. Nanotechnology in India evolved through years. The 9th Five-Year Plan (1998-2002) had mentioned for the first time that national facilities and core groups were set up to promote research in frontier areas of S&T which included superconductivity, robotics, neurosciences and carbon and nano materials. A. Nano-satellites: India also launched small satellites called 'nano satellites' with load below 10 kilos. The ‘INS 1A’ and ‘INS 1B’ were launched in February 2017. This will reduce the need for big satellites because of projects shared by the nano satellite where big satellites are not required. B. India’s Nano Mission: The Department of Science and Technology is the nodal agency for implementing the Nano Mission. Capacity-building in this upcoming area of research will be 111

of utmost importance for the Nano Mission so that India emerges as a global knowledge-hub in this field. Equally importantly, the Nano Mission will strive for development of products and processes for national development, especially in areas of national relevance like safe drinking water, materials development, sensors development, drug delivery, etc. For this, it will forge linkages between educational and research institutions and industry and promote Public Private Partnerships. DRAWBACKS OF NANOTECHNOLOGY  Development of Nanotechnology can increase risk to the health. Nano-particles can get into the body through the skin, lungs and digestive system, thus creating free radicals that can cause cell damage. Once nano-particles are in the bloodstream, they will be able to cross the blood-brain barrier.  Another major drawback of nanotechnology is the lack of occupation in the fields of traditional farming and manufacturing and industrial sector because of the huge growth in the nanotechnology.  Nanotechnology can cause a fierce risk in the field of terrorism. The terrorism and anti- national groups exploit nanotechnology as a new form of torturing the societies as nanotechnology also has the ability to annihilate the human body at the molecular level.  With the initiation of nanotechnology, there is easy availability of atomic weapons. Nanotechnology has made these weapons more powerful and more damaging. Unauthorized, criminal bodies can reach nuclear weapons easily, and its formulation could be stolen. The most perilous application of Nanotechnology for military purposes is the Nano-bomb that contains engineered self-multiplying lethal viruses that can continue to annihilate a community, country or even a society. CONCLUSION AND WAY FORWARD Nanotechnology is highly beneficial in today's technology driven society. It is the study and application of extremely small things and can be used across all the other science fields, such as chemistry, biology, physics, materials science, and engineering. Nanotechnology will continue to develop, advantageous to civilisation and improve the environment in numerous ways. Nanotechnology has provided an innovative and promising strategy to overcome the side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Nanoscale materials will make the products better in terms of functionality, 112

weight savings, less energy consumption and a cleaner environment. Shortcomings always exist when new unproven technology is released. Nanomaterial may assist in cleaning certain environmental wastes, but also pollute environment in other ways. Experts posit that Engineering ethics must be defined before the marketable use of nanotechnology. Risk assessment on new nanomaterial based application is significant to assess possible risk to environment when the products are in use. BIOTECHNOLOGY The term biotechnology is defined as the technology based on biology. Biotechnology helps in controlling the bio molecular and cellular processes via which products and technologies help in improving our lives and health. Biotechnology deals with genetically modified organisms like plants, microbes, animals for industrial production of several useful products. Biotechnology is applied in several areas like waste treatment, food processing, diagnostic and therapeutic, bioremediation, energy production and many more. Three critical research areas of biotechnology are: I. Providing the best catalyst in the form of improved organism usually a microbe or pure enzyme. II. Creating optimal conditions through engineering for a catalyst to act, and III. Downstream processing technologies to purify the protein/organic compound BIOTECHNOLOGY IN INDIA Biotechnology is one of the sunrise sectors in India. Indian Government has embarked upon various programs with a view to harness available human and unlimited biodiversity resources. Department of Biotechnology (DBT) which was setup in the year 1986 is the nodal agency under Ministry of Science and Technology which aims to promote large scale use of Biotechnology, support R&D and manufacturing in Biology etc. India is a world leader in biotechnology sector as it holds about 2% of the global share of Biotech Industry. It is among the 12 top biotech destinations in the world and ranks third in Asia Pacific region. 113

Biotech Sector in India is highly dominated by Pharmaceutical Sector which accounts for about 60% of revenues. Though concentrated in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, there are units sprouting across the country; currently some 350 companies are in operation. APPLICATIONS OF BIOTECHNOLOGY IN INDIA AGRICULTURE  Biotechnology has played major role in agriculture by altering genes, studying and cloning various crops in order to provide better quality products of foods ultimately improving our lives.  Hybrid Seeds, Artificial Seeds, Photosynthesis improver, Stress resistant crops and plants, Biofertilisers, Bio-pesticides are some of the potential applications.  Potential advantages that biotechnology can confer across a wide range of agricultural applications are in areas such as livestock management, storage of agricultural products and sustaining current crop yields, while reducing the use of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides.  Biotechnology offers a very promising alternative to synthetic foods and an improvement on conventional plant-breeding technologies. ANIMAL  The application of biotechnology in this area, in increasing production HUSBANDRY efficiency through manipulation and control of physiological systems and improving the health and well-being of animals, assumes great significance.  Embryo transplantation, used with cattle, goats, pigs, and sheep, aims to increase the number of offspring from a quality female.  Cloning embryos to artificially produce genetic duplicates of an animal has also become possible.  Direct manipulation and alteration of an animal‘s genetic material— genetic engineering—has the potential to produce even more drastic changes in animal breeding. It is believed that genetically altered pigs may one day be able to provide compatible organs for emergency 114

transplantation (xeno transplantation) into humans. FOOD  Bread, cheese, wine, beer, yogurt, and vinegar are all made by PROCESSING culturing microorganisms and are really the oldest products of biotechnology.  It helps in improving the edibility, texture, and storage of the food; in preventing the attack by the virus like bacteriophage, on the food, mainly dairy.  Biotechnologists are also developing tests that will allow the detection of food-contaminating microorganisms and the toxins they produce, which may be present only in minute quantities.  GM crops which have been approved for use in food items in select countries include corn, maize, soya, tomato, potato and papaya.  Food fortification - Latest innovations in biotechnology that fortify major staples with micro nutrients like vitamin A, zinc and iron can be game changers for hunger problem in India. ENVIRONMENT  Biotechnology can be used to tackle environmental issues like deforestation and air pollution.  Biotechnology can help in finding out the level of PM 2.5 in the air.  Biotechnology is already providing a clean and renewable alternative to traditional fossil fuels, the burning of which contributes to global warming.  Biosensors, which combine a biological component (such as an enzyme) with various electronic components to trigger a circuit when a particular type of chemical is detected. Biosensors are capable of detecting extremely low levels of proteins, hormones, pollutants, gases, and other 115

HEALTH AND molecules. MEDICINE  Bioremediation is the use of organisms, usually microorganisms, to breakdown pollutants in soil, air or groundwater. Some examples of bioremediation technologies are phytoremediation, bioleaching, land farming, bioreactor, composting, bioaugmentation, rhizofiltration, and biostimulation. Example: oil spill  Biotechnology techniques are used in medicine for diagnosis and treating different diseases.  The field of Biotechnology, genetic engineering has introduced techniques like gene therapy, recombinant DNA technology and polymerase chain reaction which use genes and DNA molecules to diagnose diseases and insert new and healthy genes in the body which replace the damaged cells  Genetic modification in mosquitoes can solve the problems of epidemic diseases such as dengue and malaria  Artificial insemination is the artificial introduction of semen into the reproductive tract of a female animal. It is used extensively in breeding animals, such as sheep and cattle  Medical researchers believe that stem cell therapy has the potential to dramatically change the treatment of human disease. A number of adult stem cell therapies already exist, particularly bone marrow transplants that are used to treat leukaemia.  Stem cell transplantation was first used in the treatment of blood disorders and it was a breakthrough. Conventionally known as bone marrow transplantation, the stem cells responsible for production of the blood cells reside in the bone marrow  Pharmacogenomics: It is the study of how the genetic inheritance of an individual affects his/her body‘s response to drugs. The vision of pharmacogenomics is to be able to design and produce drugs that are 116

adapted to each person‘s genetic makeup. These tailor-made drugs promise not only to maximize therapeutic effects but also to decrease damage to nearby healthy cells. GOVERNMENT’S PROMOTION STRATEGY • The Ministry of Science and Technology and RIKEN, Japan’s largest research organisation have signed memorandums of understanding (MoU) to launch joint research programs in the fields of biology, life sciences and material sciences. • UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) and the Association of Biotech Led Enterprises (ABLE) have signed a MoU to encourage and develop collaborative opportunities between Indian life sciences organisations and the UK. • The Drugs Controller General of India has approved Biocon Ltd to market its biosimilar ‗Trastuzumab‘ developed jointly with the US drug-maker Mylan, for treating breast cancer. • The Government of India plans to set up National Institute of Biotic Stress Management for addressing plant protection issues will be established at Raipur, Chhattisgarh. NATIONAL BIOTECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY 2015-2020: The National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2015-2020 is the direct result of formal and informal consultations over the past two years with over 300 stakeholders including scientists, educators, policy makers, leaders of industry and civil society, voluntary organizations, regulators and international experts. The consultations offered an opportunity to discuss and evaluate technological, societal and policy aspirations, critical success factors as well as barriers that will impede growth and put them in a newer and broader perspective and action plan. The envisaged mission is: 1. Provide impetus to utilizing the knowledge and tools to the advantage of Humanity. 2. Launch a major well-directed mission backed with significant investment for generation of new Biotech products. 3. Empower scientifically and technologically India‘s incomparable Human Resource. 4. Create a strong Infrastructure for R&D and Commercialisation. 5. Establish India as a world-class Bio-manufacturing Hub. The key elements would be implemented in collaboration and partnership with other Ministries, Departments, State Governments and international agencies towards achieving-Making India ready to meet the challenge of achieving US$100bn by 2020. Four major missions have been launched – Healthcare, Food and Nutrition, Clean Energy and Education. 117

BIOTECHNOLOGY REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF INDIA BILL 2013: Highlights of the bill: 1. The bill sets up an independent authority, the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India, to regulate organisms and products of modern biotechnology. 2. BRAI will regulate the research, transport, import, containment, environmental release, manufacture and use of biotechnology products. 3. Regulatory approval by BRAI will be granted through a multi-level process of assessment undertaken by scientific experts. 4. BRAI will certify that the product developed is safe for its intended use. All other laws governing the product will continue to apply. 5. A Biotechnology Regulatory Appellate Tribunal will hear civil cases that involve a substantial question relating to modern biotechnology and hear appeals on the decisions and orders of BRAI. 6. Penalties are specified for providing false information to BRAI, conducting un-approved field trials, obstructing or impersonating an officer of BRAI and for contravening any other provisions of the bill. Demerits of the BRAI bill: 1. A ministry promoting modern biotechnology (Ministry of Science & Technology) seeks to house the regulatory authority in this bill- promoters cannot be regulators since there is an inherent conflict of interest. 2. The bill has its implications on and impinges upon matters that are monitored by other independent laws, such as Environment Protection Act, 1986, Biological Diversity Act, 2002, Forest Rights Act, 2006, etc. 3. The BRAI bill is against the federal polity enshrined in the Constitution of India and the powers vested in the Panchayat Raj Institutions. 4. The Tribunal has jurisdiction over a ‗substantial question relating to modern biotechnology‘. However the bill does not define this term. 5. The bill does not specify any liability for damage caused by a product of biotechnology. Therefore, it will remain open to the courts to determine liability arising out of any adverse of any modern biotechnology. 118

CHALLENGES / NEED  Strategic Road Map: There is a need for development of a strategic roadmap for biotechnology where competitive areas and needs for industry-based R&D should be identified and future plans should be made taking into consideration the competencies and resources of the country.  Ecosystem of innovation: With growing convergence of disciplines it is important for the Universities to evolve an ecosystem in which scientists, innovators and future entrepreneurs could be nurtured.  Specialised Human Resources: There is a need for development of specialised human resources along with increasing the number and quality of jobs offered by this sector.  There is lack of early stage funding in the biotech sector.  Extending Reach: There is a need for extending the reach of biotechnology investigations to other fields of study as well such as improving other streams of vaccines and plant varieties.  Collection and Integration of Data: Life sciences researchers face the problems of bringing various data together and further integrate the data for using the different technologies.  Competitive Edge: India is also losing its competitive edge over China and Japan due to regulatory and infrastructural challenges.  Regulatory Authority: The Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India Bill which envisions creating Regulatory body for uses of biotechnology products including genetically modified organisms is pending in the parliament since 2008.  Public Awareness: Lack of public awareness of the modern tools of biotechnology and how it could improve our well-being, offer food and energy securities and help in preserving our environment. CONCLUSION National Biotechnology Development Strategy would provide the impetus for building indigenous capabilities in health, food and environment. It also lays the foundation for offering research support to biotech industries through launching of major PPP programs and spearheaded new frontiers of biotech research. However, there is a need to enhance our own capacity to comply with our commitments and to enable our flow of resources. Thus, government initiatives and responsiveness are essential in this regard so that the strategy laid out in the NBDS is met with continued success in Biotechnology sector in India. In a complex play of scientific progress and market forces, the biotechnology industry is recording growth that can rival the information technology industry boom 119

of the 1990s. India with its young workforce and a potential market for the end-products can look out for a bright future in the biotechnology sector. GENE EDITING Genome editing is the deliberate alteration of a selected DNA sequence in a living cell. It involves editing an organism‘s DNA by altering, removing or adding nucleotides to the genome. CRISPR- Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is the most common, cheap and efficient system used for genome editing. It is the DNA-targeting part of the system which consists of an RNA molecule, or ‗guide‘, designed to bind to specific DNA bases through complementary base-pairing. Cas9 stands for CRISPR-associated protein 9, and is the nuclease part that cuts the DNA. CRISPR-Cas9 systems can be produced relatively easily in a laboratory, or obtained in the form of commercially available kits. It was originally discovered in bacteria that use this system to destroy invading viruses. 120

APPLICATIONS OF GENE EDITING  Most uses of genome editing have been in scientific research for example to investigate models of human disease. In a process called somatic gene editing, scientists are exploring ways to treat diseases caused by a single mutated gene such as cystic fibrosis, Huntington‘s, and sickle cell disease. In germline gene editing sperm, eggs, and early stage embryos are altered to protect a child against inheritable diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer‘s, and forms of cancer.  Gene therapy is an artificial method that introduces DNA into the cells of human body which is used in the replacement of genes that cause medical ill-health and destroys the problem causing genes.  Resurrecting extinct species: Gene editing could even be used to bring back extinct species, or at least parts of them, for example by mixing genes from extinct species back into existing ones. A group called The Long Now Foundation supports these scientific efforts, and hopes first to bring back the passenger pigeon and then the wooly mammoth.  Pest control: Since all insects have some version of double sex so gene drive can help in developing new pest control measures. Gene drives are being developed in yeast, the fruit fly, and two mosquito species, and could be used to drive a naturally occurring, or introduced, gene for sterility through a population.  Control malaria outbreak: Since malaria kills more than 4 lakh people each year worldwide, according to the World Health Organization and this gene drive will be significant in controlling the malarial spread.  Agricultural breeding to create crop varieties with desirable traits like disease resistance, drought tolerance, reduced water consumption without introducing foreign DNA.  It can be used to create transgenic animals models such as rats, mice, pigs and primates, which will decrease the time and resource consumption compared to traditional methods.  Industrial biotechnology (e.g. developing ‗third generation’ biofuels and producing chemicals, materials and pharmaceuticals). 121

 Biomedicine (e.g. pharmaceutical development, xeno transplantation, gene and cell-based therapies, control of insect-borne diseases). CONCERNS/ISSUES  Commercial aspect- Gene editing might be used as a tool to make designer babies by selecting desired traits like intelligence, muscularity, eye color, height, memory etc which will create demographic disparity.  Creation of a superior race- The gene editing can be misused by regimes e.g., soviets tried to procreate a human gorilla which will be the ultimate fighting warrior.  Tweaking with nature- Ethicists believe that reproduction is a marvel of nature and it should not be tweaked with. Evolution is a natural phenomenon but using gene editing technology a man made phenomenon can have bitter consequences in future.  Safety Concerns: Studies have shown that edited cells can lack a cancer suppressing protein.  Genome editing using CRISPR-Cas9 introduces unexpected off-target effects and large DNA deletions.  Threat of extinction: It involves intentional modification of genetic makeup of a species which may lead to its extinction.  Ecological risks: Manipulating and removing natural populations by gene drive may destroy food webs and shift the behaviour of diseases.  Social risks: It can disrupt agriculture, enabling new weapons to mass extinction of species harmful to humans.  Resistance to gene drive: There are also apprehensions that mosquitoes may develop resistance against gene drive technology like other traditional practices of malarial control. CONCLUSION Though the technology is at a nascent stage in India, lack of genome data about our population and disease burden restricts its potential for development. Asia Genome Project by Japan is a step in the 122

right direction, and we must collaborate in the same. At the same time, ethical issues should be countered with holistic and transparent strategy with independent regulatory mechanism. Also, before extending the gene editing technology to humans, through easy tools like CRISPR- Cas9, we must be sure about its purported outcomes. Recent world outrage over He Jiankui’s experiment in China are evidence to prove that world scientists have agreed norms of ethical research which must not be breached in the name of technological advancement. GM CROPS AND TRANSGENIC ANIMALS Genetically Modified crop, or GM crop, is a crop which has a gene artificially inserted into it from another species, even unrelated, to give it some desired properties. GM crops are mostly either pest resistant or herbicide-tolerant. Some of the GM crops are Bt Cotton, Bt Brinjal and GM Mustard. The first GM variety approved for commercialization was BT cotton. Bollgard-I, which provided immunity against the pink bollworm and developed by Monsanto, was given the go ahead in 2002. Monsanto released Bollgard-II in 2006. India has become the world‘s largest producer of cotton partly due to Bt cotton, which accounts for over 90% of the total cotton acreage in the country. Indian government has not approved commercial cultivation of other GM crops, though efforts have been made for Brinjal and Mustard. Transgenic Animals are animals that have had their DNA manipulated to possess and express an extra (foreign) gene. Several animals like rats, sheep, cows, rabbits, fish and pigs are produced via this process. Multiple applications can be listed as:  Transgenic animals are specially designed to study the regulation of genes and impact on normal functioning of body along with development.  The transgenic animals are designed to increase the understanding of contribution of genes in the development of diseases. These basically serve as the model to existing human diseases like Alzheimer, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis and cancer. 123

 Such animal helps in easy development of biological products which are created via introduction of DNA that code for particular product like human proteins (α-1-amtitrypsin). This protein is used to treat emphysema.  Transgenic mice are produced in order to test the safety of vaccines prior human usage. For example, testing of the safety of polio vaccine was first carried out on transgenic mice.  Transgenic animals are also used in chemical safety testing for evaluating the toxicity of drugs. ETHICAL ISSUES 1. Selective breeding and genetic engineering usually violate animal rights as it involves manipulation of human or animal characteristics. 2. Biotechnology is often considered bad for animals. For instance, pigs currently are bred to grow faster and this may cause discomfort when animals are too active. 3. Biotechnology and its experiments on animals are often challenged as animals have to suffer due to new experiments and this give rise to ethical issue. 4. Fear of the unknown - Unknown impact ion ecology and evolution pose threat to future generations. 5. Interconnected nature of food cycle endangers large number of animals and plants by even a small genetic manipulation in one species. Therefore, the Indian Government has set up organisations such as GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee), which will make decisions regarding the validity of GM research and the safety of introducing GM-organisms for public services. It is the apex body under MoEFCC for regulating manufacturing, use, import, export and storage of hazardous micro organisms are genetically engineered organisms and cells in the country. The Committee functions as a statutory body under the Environment Protection Act 1986 of the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF). 124

FUNCTIONS ISSUES 1. It is responsible for giving technical approvals 1. GEAC is body made of bureaucrats having no of the proposal relating to the release of GMOs expert knowledge of highly complex issues that and products including experimental field arise in biotechnology. Thus this mode of trials. regulation is considered faulty and insufficient. 2. GEAC is responsible for granting permits to 2. No provision of taking into consideration the conduct experimental and large-scale open field opinion of masses and those affected by GEAC‘s trials and also approve commercial release of decisions. Also, no provision of civil society biotech crops. participation and thus wasn‘t people oriented. 3. The committee also had the power to take 3. There is no mechanism for an appeal. No punitive action under the Environment adjudicating authority is present for bio- Protection Act. technology specific issues. 4. Though agriculture is a state subject, no authority is given to the state governments. 5. Procedure for approval of a particular modified Crop is not stated which makes the whole process vague and questionable. 6. Final approval rests with the Ministry only. So, insignificant role. CONCLUSION GM crops and trans-genic animals are 21st century technologies and have a promising future, so India must not turn a blind eye to them. But at the same time strict, well-thought out and transparent rules for its regulation must be put in place. A regulatory authority having representatives of multiple stakeholders, independent of the government is the need of the hour. Even at the international level, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity seeks to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by genetically modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology. It basically regulates international trade in living GMOs, and gives detailed guidelines for separate storage and transportation. 125

SPACE TECHNOLOGY India is one of the leading space technology runners. It was praised as one of the most effective programs. From India‘s first satellite Aryabhatta (1975) to the development of indigenous cryogenic engine, India has made significant advances with little help and no technology sharing from developed countries. With the multi-dimensional applications space technology ensures, India is moving in the right direction. ISRO RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS  Chandrayaan 2- India successfully launched its second lunar mission Chandrayaan-2 a week after it halted the scheduled blast-off due to a technical snag.  INSAT- The system is a network of satellites that facilitates communication and broadcasting across the south Asian region. It ushered in a revolution in India‘s television and radio broadcasting, telecommunications and meteorological sector.  Created Polarized Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) - To make cost effective launch system. This has also increased international space collaboration by launching satellites of other nations at low costs.  Mangalyaan- Mars Orbiter Mission in 2013 - ISRO created history by launching Mangalyan (mission spacecraft) into the Mars orbit in maiden attempt.  ASTROSAT- India‘s 1st space observatory was set up in 2015. We became the fourth agency in the world to do so after NASA, Roscosmos and ESA.  Scramjet- Supersonic Combusting Ramjet engine - works on Air-breathing Propulsion System which uses atmospheric oxygen to burn the fuel in the rocket.  RLV-TD- ISRO- Reusable Launch vehicle - space shuttle RLV -TD to launch satellites around earth orbit and re-enter into the atmosphere.  NAVIC (Indian Regional navigation satellites system) and South Asia Satellite are other missions which are a remarkable example of international coordination in the space arena. 126

 ISRO is preparing for its missions of Aditya-L1 (Solar Mission) and Gaganyaan (Manned Space Mission). SOCIO-ECONOMIC APPLICATIONS OF DEVELOPMENTS IN SPACE  Agriculture- Acreage and production estimates for the principal crops such as wheat, rice, sorghum, cotton, mustard, and groundnut using Forecasting Agriculture Output using Space Agro meteorology and land based observations (FASAL). Agro Metrological (AGROMET) Towers to measure soil temperature, soil moisture, soil heat and net radiation, wind speed, wind direction, pressure and humidity.  Wasteland- Wasteland mapping, watershed development and monitoring as well as help in fisheries sector for augmentation of income.  Resources- The survey of various mineral and natural resources have been made possible through remote sensing. Management of these resources, their development conservation and formulation of various policies are affectively done with the use of information derived through remote sensing.  Weather forecasting- Delivering cyclone warnings and is used in search and rescue operations. Various meteorological services including information about monsoon, climate flood, cyclonic activities etc. are provided through the technologies.  Communication- Developed communication technology in India.  Education- They have proved very useful in spread of education. Even in remote areas, the expertise educations have been made possible through the talk back channels of INSAT-3D satellite.  Environment Conservation- They have helped in environment conservation programmes estimation of agricultural production and water resources information‘s.  Telemedicine- Introducing telemedicine via satellite for making specialty treatment accessible to people in remote areas of India. Places around Bangalore, Kolkata and Tripura are networked with a hub using VSAT terminals. 127

 Rural development- The concept of ―Gramsat” satellites have emerged to provide the basic requirements of villages. Village Resource Centers located at coastal tracts are being provided with near real time information on satellite derived Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ). Information pertaining to inland fisheries, aquaculture, etc., is also provided through VRCs as relevant.  Navigation- Another application of satellite communication is Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R), as a part of India‘s commitment to the International COSPAS- SARSAT programme for providing alerts and position location services for aircraft and ships in distress.  Commercialization of space launching technologies by ANTRIX has resulted into economic gain. Apart from these various uses, the space programme has helped in social cultural and scientific consolidation and harmony. The Indian Space Program has produced remarkable strides over the past four and a half decades through well-integrated, self-reliant programs. India is supporting a knowledge-based society that has led to social, economic and political transformation through its space technology program. SPACE VISION INDIA 2025  Satellite based communication and navigation systems for rural connectivity, security needs and mobile services  Enhanced imaging capability for natural resource management, weather and climate change studies  Space science missions for better understanding of solar system and universe  Planetary exploration  Development of Heavy lift launcher  Reusable Launch Vehicles - Technology demonstrator missions leading to Two Stage To Orbit (TSTO)  Human Space Flight 128

ROLE OF PRIVATE PLAYERS IN SPACE TECHNOLOGIES India has been achieving great feats in the space arena ranging from Mangalyaan to launching 104 satellites at one go to the recent Chandrayaan 2 mission. However, it is ironic that India—whose space-faring tradition is decidedly in the service of human development—is lagging in harnessing the power of private innovation in the space domain. This not only limits the exploitation of space for economic development, but has serious national security implications. POTENTIAL ADVANTAGES OF RISING SPACE INDUSTRY  Adding an edge to India’s foreign policy as our space capabilities can be a part of our initiatives to foster new relationships.  Avoiding the outflow of tax-payer’s money to foreign hands from where we procure turnkey products and services.  Low in-house capacity of ISRO restricts them to very few launches in a year. Privatization can offload 30-40% of the work and help them work more efficiently.  Creating more opportunities for FDI as well as new jobs for highly-skilled labour market.  Empowering India’s defence system by equipping it with space technology, and allowing armed forces to procure defence products and services indigenously.  Reversing the brain-drain from India. CHALLENGES  Monopoly - In India, ‗Space‘ means Indian Space Research Organisation. Globally the technology is highly protected because of its dual use capability. Even if it was not, it would be prohibitively expensive. 129

 Funding- A major challenge in setting up a space business in India is funding. Space industry is capital intensive and upstream activities come with a long gestation period.  Investor’s Dilemma- The lack of clarity among the investors and lack of the ecosystem required for significant contribution is a challenge for the investors.  Lack of Regulation- India is a party to the Outer Space Treaty, where one of the fundamental requirements laid upon states is the supervision of space activities within its borders, the country did not have any formally legislated laws. This is a potential roadblock for commercialization.  Growth Challenges- Scaling up, international marketing and funding are challenges.  Lack of Support- Indian ecosystem has neither incubation support nor pointers to seek support of leaders such as ISRO for space start-ups.  Political and bureaucratic hurdles limit private space operations in India. WAY FORWARD  India should have national space activities legislation which takes on board all stakeholders.  A public-private partnership (PPP) model can be looked into to realize ISRO‘s workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), with a joint venture between ISRO and the private sector.  We can take example of UK, space ventures are treated as a complement to big organizations and not a competitor. This should be encouraged in India too.  A supportive international partner and like-minded local partners helps to set up a space business.  The idea should be to let the private industry build its own facilities after gaining enough expertise. CONCLUSION 130

The private sector already supplies majority of the sub-systems in satellite manufacturing. This can be further scaled up into other activities with proper regulation and partnership of the ISRO and private sector. The country must deregulate the space sector to encourage private enterprise if we are to compete in the new space economy. ISRO has built a space technology park spread over 25 acres in Bengaluru where the entire range of facilities have been set up for use by the industry. More such efforts are needed. DEFENCE TECHNOLOGIES The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) was established in 1958 by amalgamating the Technical Development Establishment and the Directorate of Technical Development and Production with the Defence Science Organisation. It is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India headquartered in New Delhi. It works with a network of 52 laboratories, which are engaged in developing defence technologies covering various fields, like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, land combat engineering, life sciences, materials, missiles, and naval systems. INTEGRATED GUIDED MISSILE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (IGMDP)  IGMDP was brain child of renowned scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.  It was intended to attain self-sufficiency in the field of missile technology.  After keeping in mind the requirements of various types of missiles by the defense forces, the program recognized the need to develop five missile systems.  The IGMDP formally got the approval of Indian government on July 26, 1983.  It brought together the country‘s scientific community, academic institutions, R&D laboratories, industries and the three defence services in giving shape to the strategic, indigenous missile systems. The missiles developed under IGMDP are: 1. Short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile – Prithvi 2. Intermediate-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile – Agni 131

3. Short-range low-level surface-to-air missile – Trishul 4. Medium-range surface-to-air missile – Akash 5. Third generation anti-tank missile – Nag The Agni, which was initially conceived as a technology demonstrator project in the form of a re- entry vehicle, was later upgraded to a ballistic missile with different ranges. Dr. Kalam played a major role in the development and operationalisation of Agni and Prithvi missiles. After achieving the goal of making India self-reliant in missile technology, DRDO on January 8, 2008, formally announced successful completion of IGMDP. MISSILE FEATURES Agni I  Single stage, solid fuel, Medium Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM). Agni II  Using solid propulsion booster and a liquid propulsion upper stage. Agni III  Range of 700-800 km. Agni IV  Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM).  Range more than 2000 km.  Two stage IRBM  Support a wide range of warhead configurations.  Strike range of more than 2,500 Km  Two stage missile powered by solid propellant. 132

Agni V  Can fire from a road mobile launcher.  Range is more than 3,500 km. Trishul  Equipped with indigenously developed ring laser gyro and composite Akash rocket motor.  Three-stage solid fueled, indigenous Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM).  Capable of carrying 1.5 tonnes of nuclear warheads.  Latest and most advanced variant in terms of navigation and guidance, warhead and engine.  After induction in the military, India will join an exclusive club of countries like the US, Russia, China, France, and Britain which have intercontinental ballistic missile capability.  Canister launches missile system for operational flexibility.  Range is more than 5,000 km.  Short-range, quick reaction, all weather surface-to-air missile designed to counter a low level attack.  Has necessary electronic counter-measures against all known aircraft jammers.  Medium-range, surface-to-air missile with multi-target engagement capability.  Multiple warheads capable. 133

Nag  High-energy solid propellant and ram-rocket propulsion system. Prithvi BrahMos  Third generation ‗fire-and-forget‘ anti-tank missile with a range of 4- Nirbhay 8km.  Developed indigenously as an anti-armour weapon employing sensor fusion technologies for flight guidance.  HELINA (Helicopter Launched NAG) is the air-to-surface version of the NAG integrated into Dhruv Helicopters.  First indigenously built ballistic missile under IGMDP.  Surface-to-surface battle field missile.  Demonstrates higher lethal effects and high level capability with field interchangeable warheads.  Range from 150 km to 300 km.  Supersonic cruise missile.  Being developed with Russia as a private joint-venture.  Multi-platform cruise can strike from various types of platforms.  Among the world fastest supersonic cruise missiles with speeds ranging between Mach 2.5 – 2.8.  A 'fire and forget' weapon i.e. requiring no further guidance from the control centre once the target has been assigned.  Subsonic missile, supplement to the BrahMos. 134

Sagarika  Capable of being launched from multiple platforms on land, sea and Shaurya air. Dhanush Astra  A terrain hugging, stealth missile capable of delivering 24 different types of warheads depending on mission requirements.  Can reach up to 1,000 km.  Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM)  Being integrated with India‘s nuclear powered Arihant-class submarine.  Range - 700 km.  A variant of the K-15 Sagarika.  Submarine- nuclear-capable missile.  Aims to enhance India‘s second-strike capability.  Sea-based, short-range, liquid propellant ballistic missile.  Naval version of Prithvi II.  Maximum range 350 km.  Beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile using a solid-propellant.  In terms of size and weight, one of the smallest weapon developed by the DRDO.  Active radar seeker to find targets. 135

Prahaar  Electronic counter-measure capabilities.  Designed to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft at supersonic speeds in the head-on mode at a range of 80 km.  India‘s latest surface-to-surface missile with a range of 150 km.  Primary objective is to bridge the gap between the unguided Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher and the guided Prithvi missile variants.  Have high maneuverability, acceleration and accuracy. ISSUES WITH DRDO  The Standing Committee on Defence during 2016-17, expressed concerns over the inadequate budgetary support for the on going projects of DRDO.  The committee notes that out of total defence budget, the share of DRDO was 5.79 per cent in 2011-12, which reduced to 5.34 per cent in 2013-14.  Government‘s lethargic revenue commitments towards DRDO have put major projects involving futuristic technology on hold.  The DRDO also suffers from inadequate manpower in critical areas to the lack of proper synergy with the armed forces.  Cost escalation and long delays have damaged the reputation of DRDO.  Even after 60 years of DRDO formation, India still imports a large share of its defence equipments. In the period 2013-17, India is the world‘s largest importer of defence equipment, accounting for 12% of the global total, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. 136

 DRDO's list of successes is short- primarily the Agni and Prithvi missiles. Its list of failures is much longer. The Kaveri Engine is running late by 16 years and the cost has escalated by around 800 per cent.  DRDO is big on promise and small on delivery. There is no accountability. Nobody is taken to task for time and cost overruns.  In 2011, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) put a serious question mark on DRDO‘s capabilities. \"The organisation, which has a history of its projects suffering endemic time and cost overruns, needs to sanction projects and decide on a probable date of completion on the basis of a conservative assessment of technology available and a realistic costing system,\" its report stated.  The CAG report also revealed that not all technologies developed by DRDO were suitable for use by the armed forces. The three services have rejected 70 per cent of the products developed at the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, in the last 15 years costing Rs 320 crore because the products did not meet their standard and requirement.  The technology development agency is also largely responsible for the fact highlighted by General V.K. Singh that 97 per cent of the army's air defence is obsolete.  DRDO is just tinkering with World War II equipment instead of working on cutting-edge technology.  Even if systems are acquired from abroad and DRDO is meant to service them, if it fails. This leaves critical gaps in national defence. WAY FORWARD  DRDO should be restructured in a leaner organisation as suggested by the committee chaired by P. Rama Rao for external review of the agency in February 2007.  The committee also recommended for setting up a commercial arm of the organisation to make it a profitable entity, besides cutting back on delays in completing projects. 137

 DRDO former chief V.K. Saraswat has called for the setting up of a Defence Technology Commission as well as a bigger role for DRDO in picking production partners for products developed by the agency.  DRDO should be able to select a capable partner company from the outset, from the private sector if necessary.  DRDO has taken some steps in the direction as it is considering long-term contracts with Indian information technology (IT) vendors such as Tata Consultancy Services Ltd (TCS) to build software solutions for defence projects, shifting its strategy of awarding deals to the lowest bidders on short-term projects.  DRDO‘s move to outsource is a right move and will open lot of opportunities benefiting the Indian companies.  In Its document \"DRDO in 2021: HR Perspectives‘‘, DRDO has envisaged a HR policy which emphasized on free, fair, and fearless Knowledge Sharing, Open book management style and Participative Management. This is a step in right direction. INNOVATION PROMOTION India‘s demographic dividend can be best utilized and socio-economic problems solved by promoting the scientific temper in our youth, guided by practical approach in education, not rote learning. Despite being one of the leading countries in terms of number of patents and research journals, most of them are non-peer reviewed. More and more useful innovations are not only the need for a better world, but also increase a country‘s global standing and royalty income in foreign currency. NEED FOR INNOVATION IN INDIA  Innovations are key drivers of economic performance and social well-being.  It is important to inculcate scientific temper among masses in order to fight superstitions, distorted truth and religious fanaticism that has been crippling India. 138

 Innovation and technological improvement has become essential to combat and adapt to climate change and promote sustainable development.  It is imperative for combating national security threats ranging from cyber ware to autonomous military systems such as drones.  Investing in research and providing adequate incentives leads to creation of jobs, especially for the pool of engineers and researchers in the society. Under the ‗Make in India‘ program, the government has targeted to create 100 million jobs from the manufacturing sector by 2022. GOVERNMENT EFFORTS  Atal Innovation Mission, led by NITI Aayog: Various schemes have been introduced to improve the quality of research institutes, for the promotion of technology business incubators (Atal Incubation Centres) and research parks that promote innovative ideas until they become commercial ventures. It also includes Atal Tinkering Labs for inculcating scientific temper in school students.  PM fellowship scheme aimed at encouraging young, talented, enthusiastic and result-oriented scholars to take up industry- relevant research.  Uchchatar Avishkar Yojana: It aims to promote industry-specific need-based research so as to keep up the competitiveness of the Indian industry in the global market.  Platforms like ―Innovate India‖ promote and recognise innovations happening across the nation by enabling citizens to share their innovation.  Unnat Bharat Abhiyan 2.0 to help bring transformational change in rural development processes by leveraging knowledge institutions to help build the architecture of an Inclusive India.  IMPRINT India is aimed at adopting engineering and technology as the vehicle to addressing the societal needs and achieving national prosperity.  Forging technology and innovation partnerships with other nations like India-Israel Innovation Bridge will act as link between start-ups of India and Israel. 139

 PRISM (Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Start-ups and MSMEs): It is a scheme launched by DSIR (Department of Science & Industrial Research) to support individual innovators with financial grants.  Various enabling policies like Science, Technology & Innovation Policy 2013, National Intellectual Property Rights Policy, Technology Vision Document 2035 and Space Vision India 2025 have been framed. WAY FORWARD The Economic Survey recommends doubling national expenditures on R&D with most of the increase coming from the private sector and universities:  Improve maths and cognitive skills at school level.  There is a need to encourage investor-led research. In this direction, the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) has already been established. It is a promising start that needs to expand with more resources and creative governance structures.  R & D should focus on technology and extension services that are directly related to common people.  Engage private sector, state government and Indian Diaspora.  The private sector should be incentivized to undertake and support R&D through CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funds. CONCLUSION Growing strength of India‘s economy and increasing anti-immigrant atmosphere in some Western countries has the potential to attract back scientific Indian Diaspora. Schemes like Ramanujan Fellowship Scheme, the Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Faculty scheme and the Ramalingaswami Re-entry Fellowship, Visiting Advanced Joint Research Faculty Scheme (VAJRA) should be enhanced to leverage the scientific Diaspora. Moreover, platforms like Indian Science Congress should be used constructively for scientific dialogue and integrated research on various disciplines of science, not for the propagation of superstitious beliefs, mostly of the political class. 140

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION 4.0 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Artificial Intelligence refers to the ability of machines to perform cognitive tasks like thinking, perceiving, learning, problem solving and decision making. It enables computer system to carry out task on their own that otherwise requires human intelligence. There are two subsets under the umbrella term AI: Machine learning and Deep learning. Machine Learning is based on the idea that systems can learn from data, identify patterns and make decisions with minimal human intervention. Machine Learning involves the use of algorithms to parse data and learn from it. This enables making a determination or prediction. Deep Learning is a technique for implementing Machine Learning. It is inspired by the structure and function of the brain called artificial neural networks. APPLICATIONS 1. Agriculture: Application of AI in agriculture can help in increasing crop yield by providing real-time advisory, early detection of pest attacks, prediction of crop prices, precision farming etc. For example: PEAT – Machine Vision for Diagnosing Pests / Soil Defects. Berlin-based agricultural tech start-up PEAT has developed a deep learning application called Plantix that reportedly identifies potential defects and nutrient deficiencies in soil. 2. Healthcare: Can be used in diagnosis, treatment design, imaging diagnosis, early detections of disease outbreaks, robot assisted surgeries, virtual nurse assistants etc. Recently, researchers at an Oxford hospital developed AI that can diagnose scans for heart disease and lung cancer. 3. Education: Can be used for developing tools for customised learning, interactive and intelligent tutoring systems, and predicting tools- for example predicting dropouts. It improves access and quality of education. 141

4. Urban planning: Can be used for optimizing infrastructure in cities, service delivery, crowd management, cyber security, public safety and water and waste management. In Kerala, engineers have developed sewer-cleaning robots to put an end to manual scavenging 5. Transportation: It can be used in developing AI-based traffic management system including sensors, CCTV cameras, automatic number plate recognition cameras, speed detection cameras, signalised pedestrian crossings. It can help in predictions in public transport journeys. 6. Retail: Can be used in customer demand anticipation, improved inventory management, efficient delivery management, interaction with customers etc. 7. Manufacturing: Can be used in supply chain management, predictive maintenance, logistics, and quality assurance. 8. Energy: Can be used in energy system modelling, predictive analysis, demand and infrastructure management, renewable management, building energy efficient buildings, etc. HIGH POTENTIAL USE IN INDIA  It can complement Digital India Mission by helping in the big data analysis which is not possible without using AI.  Targeted delivery of services, schemes, and subsidy can be further fine-tuned.  Smart border surveillance and monitoring to enhance security infrastructure.  Weather forecasting models may become proactive and therefore preplanning for any future mishaps such as floods, droughts and therefore addressing the farming crisis, farmer‘s suicide, crop losses etc.  By analyzing big data of road safety data and NCRB (National Crime Record Bureau) data for crimes, new policies can be formulated.  Disaster management can be faster and more accessible with the help of robots and intelligent machines.  In the counterinsurgency and patrolling operations, we often hear the loss of CRPF jawans which can be minimized by using the robotic army and lesser human personnel. 142

 AI can be used to automate government processes, therefore, minimizing human interactions and maximizing transparency and accountability.  It can be applied to study ancient literature upon medicines and therefore help in modernizing the health care with the juxtaposition of modern machines and ancient techniques.  In the remotest areas where the last leg of governance is almost broken, AI can do the job. For Example: in the tribal areas and the hilly areas of the northeast. RECENT EXAMPLES FROM INDIA  Kerala police inducted a robot for police work.  Around the same time, Chennai got its second robot-themed restaurant.  Here, robots not only serve as waiters but also interact with customers in English and Tamil.  In Ahmedabad, a cardiologist performed the world‘s first in-human tele-robotic coronary intervention on a patient nearly 32 km away. GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES To harness the potential of AI, NITI Aayog will also establish National Program on AI with a view to guide the research and development in new and emerging technologies. NITI Aayog paper highlights the potential for India to become an AI ‘garage’, or solutions provider, for 40% of the world. NITI Aayog has identified five focus sectors that are envisioned to benefit the most from AI in solving societal needs. 1. Healthcare: increased access and affordability of quality healthcare. 2. Agriculture: enhanced farmers‘ income, increased farm productivity and reduction of wastage. 3. Education: improved access and quality of education. 4. Smart Cities and Infrastructure: efficient and connectivity for the burgeoning urban population. 143

5. Smart Mobility and Transportation: smarter and safer modes of transportation and better traffic and congestion problems. Kamakoti Committee: AI Task Force headed by V.Kamakoti was set up to to explore possibilities to leverage AI for development across various fields. Key recommendations include: 1. Set up digital data banks, marketplaces and exchanges to ensure availability of cross industry information. 2. Data ombudsman: to address data-related issues and grievances. 3. Ensure availability of funds for R&D. 4. Setting up National Artificial Intelligence Mission (N-AIM). CHALLENGES  Unavailability of proper data ecosystem.  Insufficient funding and research in AI.  Lack of Trained professionals: only around 4% of Indian AI professionals are trained in emerging technologies such as deep learning. High resource cost.  Low awareness for adopting AI in business processes.  Lack of proper privacy, security and ethical regulations.  Unattractive Intellectual Property regime: This hinders research and adoption of AI.  Socially disruptive impact of AI in areas such as Employment generation, Wealth generation, changing preference of an AI empowered middle class. WAY FORWARD  Achieving the goal of ‗Artificial Intelligence for All‘ requires long term and engaged institutional collaboration between all the stakeholders including the citizens.  Allocation of resources in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) need should be increased.  Robust Intellectual Property Framework – is required to ride the AI innovation wave. 144

 Early Adoption of AI- Be it the research in technology infrastructure, the start-up community developing applications and corporations deploying solutions for their business needs, early adoption will be the key determinants in ensuring leadership in AI.  Digital data banks, marketplaces and exchanges should be set up to ensure availability of data and information across industries, with requisite sharing regulations.  Human Resource Development: through developing an AI Education strategy and recommending AIbased curriculums. This also includes reskilling via identification of skill sets required for AI as well as creating an AI Readiness Index for states.  International rule-making: Participate actively in shaping international policy discussions on governance of AI related technologies. This also includes enhanced bilateral cooperation. CONCLUSION The present debate about AI is between human redundancy and evolution of technology. Either way, the reality is that AI has entered the market and, pros and cons aside, the need of the hour is to estimate the problems and have solutions to deal with them in advance. BIG DATA ANALYTICS Big data is high-volume, and high-velocity and high-variety information assets that demands cost- effective, innovative forms of information processing that enable enhanced insight, decision making, and process automation. Big Data analytics helps organizations to harness their data and use it to identify new opportunities, enabling them to develop smarter strategies, efficient operations, and increase returns and customer centricity. POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS Data is important to ensure efficient strategic planning, policy decisions, governance, and empowering communities. Availability and accessibility of data has helped increase the efficacy in human intuition (decision-making) in every field of science, medicine and technology.  Data driven governance aims to improve the last-mile linkage of individuals to schemes and empower communities and service providers through data collection, analysis, and 145

improvisation. The Digital India and Smart Cities initiatives of the government also include efforts to utilise data to design, plan, implement, manage, and govern programmes.  Companies use big data to better understand and target customers by bringing together data from their own transactions as well as social media data and even weather predictions.  Big Data is used in healthcare to find new cures for cancer, to optimize treatment and even predict diseases before any physical symptoms appear.  Big Data is used to analyze and improve the performance of individuals (at sports, at home or work) where data from sensors in equipment and wearable devices can be combined with video analytics to get insights that traditionally were impossible to see.  Police forces and security agencies use big data to prevent cyber-attacks, detect credit card fraud, foil terrorism and even predict criminal activity.  Big Data Applications for Disaster Management will enable predictive modeling and preventive prescription. Post disaster, damage assessment in scale and financial terms, and rescue cum movement of relief can be analysed from big data.  It will revolutionise the Supply Chain Management system by creating diagnostic tools.  Future of cyber and unmanned system will put data strain on the existing system, hence data analytic tools need to be based on future technologies for better absorption in the administration.  It can also be used to improve our homes, cities and countries for e.g. optimizing the heating or lighting in our homes, the traffic flow in our cities, or the energy grid across the country. EXAMPLES OF USE IN INDIA  Use of preliminary data from the Goods And Services Tax Network (GSTN) to understand the patterns of trade between states and extract employment data for all enterprises covered by the new tax.  Use of railway system to understand migration patterns in a country on the move. 146

 Use of payroll data from the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation to capture the state of job creation in formal enterprises.  Use of satellite images to show that India is far more urbanized than the census suggests and to show growing regional inequality through the use of night-light images. GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES FOR PROMOTION 1. Digital India Programme: It was launched to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. It aims at seamless integration across departments/ jurisdictions, and ensuring availability of facilities in real time from online and mobile platforms. 2. Big Data Management Policy, 2016: It was launched by Comptroller and Auditor General. It paved the way for Data Analytics Centre (first of its kind in the country) and aims to exploit the data-rich environment in the union and state governments to build capacity in the Indian audit and accounts department. 3. National Data and Analytics Platform, 2018: NITI Aayog is planning to develop it in collaboration of private tech players. It will collect data from central ministries and state governments to aid more informed policymaking and become a single source of sectoral data for the stakeholders such as citizens, policymaker, and researchers. Government of India is also working towards an Open Data Policy, to encourage sharing information between departments and across ministries. CHALLENGES  Absence of good quality of datasets: In most cases, available dataset are found to be outdated, duplicated, incomplete, lacking in semantic interoperability, and inadequately referenced.  Logistic Issues: Use of big data technology is facing new challenges like storage, applicability, security, and scope.  Lack of competent Professional: According to NASSCOM, there is an employee deficit of around 1.4 lakh jobs in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics segment across various sectors in India, which is expected to increase to 2.3 lakh by 2021. 147

 Privacy Concern: There are concerns about the misuse of Big Data by intruding in personal sphere of an individual.  Lack of Coordination and Cooperation: According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the full potential of big data remains unrealised due to ―low-level sharing of resources‖. CONCLUSION Standardization in Big data is going to play a major role in facilitating the exchange and sharing huge volume of data across multiple platforms, multiple applications and multiple sectors. With proper standardization in place, huge volume of data generated within a system can be effectively utilized by other systems/services and applications for greater welfare of individuals and society as a whole. VIRTUAL REALITY Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world. Applications of virtual reality can include entertainment (i.e. gaming) and educational purposes (i.e. medical or military training). Other, distinct types of VR style technology include augmented reality and mixed reality. Currently standard virtual reality systems use either virtual reality headsets or multi-projected environments to generate realistic images. APPLICATIONS  Virtual reality is most commonly used in entertainment applications such as video gaming and 3D cinema.  In social sciences and psychology, virtual reality offers a cost-effective tool to study and replicate interactions in a controlled environment. It can be used as a form of therapeutic intervention.  In medicine, simulated VR surgical environments under the supervision of experts can provide effective and repeatable training at low cost, allowing trainees to recognize and amend errors as they occur. Virtual reality has been used in physical rehabilitation since the 2000s. 148

 VR can simulate real workspaces for workplace occupational safety and health purposes, educational purposes, and training purposes. It can be used to provide learners with a virtual environment where they can develop their skills without the real-world consequences of failing. CONCERNS AND CHALLENGES  Healthy and Safety: A number of unwanted symptoms have been caused by prolonged use of virtual reality, and these may have slowed proliferation of the technology, like seizures; developmental issues in children; repetitive stress injury; and interference with medical devices.  Virtual reality sickness (also known as cybersickness) occurs when a person's exposure to a virtual environment causes symptoms that are similar to motion sickness symptoms.  Privacy: The persistent tracking required by all VR systems makes the technology particularly useful for and vulnerable to, mass surveillance. The expansion of VR will increase the potential and reduce the costs for information gathering of personal actions, movements and response. ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING / 3-D PRINTING Three-dimensional printing (3-D printing), also known as Additive manufacturing (AM) is a process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer. It is basically a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. Additive manufacturing is now mainstream in developed countries and is beginning to replace traditional manufacturing for many different applications. Additive manufacturing is suitable for building the entire systems in one go, with hollow interiors without assembly or interlocked parts. A PwC report titled ‗The Global Industry 4.0‘ in 2016 shows that in India, 27% of industries have either already invested or will be investing in AM technology within the next five years. PROCESS 149

3D printing starts by making a virtual design of the object to be created. Virtual design can be made using a 3D modelling program such as CAD (Computer Aided Design) or 3D scanners. The 3D digital copy is then put into a 3D modelling program. The model is then sliced into hundreds or thousands of horizontal layers in preparation for printing. This prepared file is thus uploaded in the 3D printer which reads each slice in 2D format and then proceeds to create the object layer by layer and the resulting object has no sign of layering visible, but a 3 dimensional structure. APPLICATIONS AREA APPLICATIONS DEFENCE At present, AM technology in the aerospace and defence sector is broadly used for prototyping, repair of small parts and component manufacturing. HEALTH Examples: The UK Royal Air Force and Navy use AM for repairing spare parts.  Hearing aids have been made using 3D printing technology.  Bio printers: Organ printing or body part printing is being printed and some parts being used as implants of actual body parts. Example: Titanium pelvic, plastic tracheal splint, titanium jaws. 150