Rajya Sabha TV – Science Monitor (18 Oct 2014)

Weekly update on all the happening in Science & Technology, in and around the nation;

Headlines/Highlights

1. MOM geared up to capture Comet

MOM orbiting the red planet 25 days – spacecraft send pictures which further our knowledge about Mars – ready to capture the comet siding spring; Distance between the Mars & Comet will be 82K miles, MOM will be 400 Kms from the surface of the Mars and 140,000 Kms form the Comet; Spectacular cosmic event – comet will leave behind debris & dust particles – hazardous to the sensitive electronic parts of the MOM - The orbit of MOM was altered to save it from the impact – Orbit was shortened to 72,200 km from about 78,000km; Now MOM will move behind the Red planet – will be protected in the shadow of the red planet;

2. ISRO successfully launches IRNSS Satellite (IRNSS 1C using PSLV-C26)

3^rd Series in the series IRNSS- from Satish Dhawan Space Centre – Indian Regional Satellite Navigation System – aims to provide navigational & security services – Satellite Initially put in to sub-synchronous Geo orbit and then lifted to the Geosynchronous Orbit; Spacecraft weighs more than 1400 kg – IRNSS 1C – third in the series of 7 satellite constellation of IRNSS; Space & Ground Segment and User Receiver system are developed in India; Unlike GPS, it could be fully in the control of GoI; Purpose: Marine & Terrestrial Navigation, Disaster Management, Vehicle tracking, flight Management; Dual purpose: firstly Standard positioning for civilian use and  restricted service for military purpose; IRNSS is similar to US’s GPS, Russia’s Glosnass, Europe’s Galileo, China’s Biedo, Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System; The Entire IRNSS Constellation to be completed by 2015;

3. Student builds an innovative Bio-Converter @ 4^th DST INSPIRE

Unique feature of Bio Converter – Hermetia Sanitizer Bio Converter – Novel type of compost Unit developed by 10^th class Zuleika Juliet Antao – for Bio degradable wastes; based on breeding of Black Soldier flies (Hermetia Illucens) – Unit is affordable & environment friendly; Remarkable speed of decomposition & absence of rotting smells;

4. Plants absorbs more carbon than predicted by the climate model

Research by Oak Ridge National Labs, US; The amount of Co2 absorbed by plants underestimated and the Growth rate of Carbon in the atmosphere overestimated; used the Mesophyll Diffusion Process – Analyzed how Co2 spreads slowly inside leaves; Research helps to understand the future impacts of Global warming;

5. DRDO – 2^nd International Conference in Feb 2015 – Theme “ IT Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow” following the success of last year’s Role of Science & Technology in the progress of the world;
6. Cyclone Hudhud (IN FOCUS)

Timely & Accurate prediction by the IMD have helped in the evacuation of the large population which in turn saved thousands of life; why these cyclones are so devastating;

Atmosphere is made of unique combination of elements with unique property – makes it hospitable & habitable planet;

Cyclones are very strong thunderstorms – Minimum wind speed of cyclones is 74 mph – Wind carries the moisture & is in closed circular motion - Cyclones are a combined action of ocean water & air;

Formation: during summer – due to heat- warm moist air over the ocean rises up from near the surface – because warm air is lighter than cold air – as it move upward – it creates a low air pressure below (cold air form High pressure area pushed to fill the gap) – sooner the air gets heated and rises too – the cycle continues – as the storm-system rotates faster – very low pressure area called eye forms in the centre – creating the eye turbulent;

Cyclones rotates in the same direction as the earth – Speed of a cyclone is measured in a unit called Knots

Different names across the world: Cyclone if originates in Indian ocean, Hurrican if orginated in Atlantic, Typoon in pacific;

How Cyclones are name? Hudhud, Phailin, Nilofar, Nilam…? (UPSC Mains 2013) Actually WMO (World meteorological Organisation) maintains a list of names for the Cyclones – practice of naming started in Atlantic region few hundred years ago – they were name after the Catholic Saints; Formula for Indian Ocean Region generated in 2004- under the scheme 8 countries (Ind, Bang, Pak, Sri, Myan, Maldive, Oman, Thai) comes under the Indian Ocean Region – contributed list of 64 names (8 names from each country); Recent cyclone Hudhud, named by Oman- India is constantly hit by Tropical cyclones - 7 coastal states in India are most affected in cyclones;

Alphabetically arranged list of name;

India contributed: Agni, Akash, Bijli, Leher, Megh

Pakistan contributed: Nilam, Nilofar, Titli

Srilanka contributed: Mahasen

Thailand contributed: Phailin

Oman contributed: Hudhud

Familiar cyclones hit India – Onil 2004, Nisha & Khaimuk 2008, Jal 2010, Nilam 2012, Helen, Lehar, Phailin 2013, Hudhud 2014;

Indian coastline densely populated - life of the people here largely affected by these cyclones – large scale life & property loss;

IMD constantly improving itself, it has high level skills, expertise & tools; Timely & accurate prediction – helps in major way of managing natural disaster;

IPCC and MOEFCC have warned about the likelihood of increase in cyclone in Eastern coast - Coastal cities with climate resistant infrastructure is need of the hour; TERI done a study on Infrastructure for Disaster Management;

7. History of Science
1. Indian Origin American Scientist S. Chandrashekar – Born Oct, 1910 – biggest contribution to science is Chandrashekar Limit – as the maximum mass of the White Dwarf star – according to this the stars that reach the mass 1.4 times the mass of the sun, become black hole;
2. British Physicist – Born in Oct, 1891 – Nobel prize in physics in 1935 for discovering neutron;
3. Swedish Scientist – Alfred Bernhard Nobel – Born in Oct, 1833 – instituted highest award for science- invented Dynamite & gelignite;
4. American Bio Chemist – Charles Glen King – Born in Oct, 1896 – independently discovered ascorbic acid or Vitamin C – which is vital for  the treatment of Scurvy;
5. Indian Geologist – Darashaw Nosherwan Wadia – Born in Oct, 1883 – First Indian Scientist to be employed by the GSI – Dehradun based Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology renamed in his honour;
8. S & T activities (Science Express)
1. Cities for All – XI Metropolis World Congress – Hyderabad – Oct 2014 – keynote address by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam – Stress up on the needs of Carbon free cities – Urban areas should be the place of peaceful living – carbon neutral & fossil free urbanization;
2. Non Alcoholic party level of disease – cause of more carbohydrate foods - no visible symptomes Recent Study by Dr. Dinesh Jyothi and Dr. Mohammed Rela;
3. NASA activated Earth sensing observatory ISS RapidScat – measure ocean wind from space;
4. Deadly Ebola passes quickly to US & Europe;

Watch it here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0EAAoUc7h4&index=15&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpd3_Iz7J-81Vh4QqU-ZGA9

Rajya Sabha TV – Science Monitor (24 Jan 2015)

Weekly update on all the happening in Science & Technology, in and around the nation;

Headlines

1. Fourth Satellite of the IRNSS to be launched in March

Fourth in the seven satellite constellation of Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System – India’s Indigenous system being developed by ISRO; to be launched by PSLV-C27 rocket – scientists developing cryogenic propulsion systems;

2. Tiger population of the country increased by 30% - Status of Tiger in India Report 2014

Tiger population increased from 1706 (in 2010) to 2226 (in 2014) – Karnataka has the highest number of tigers, followed by Uttarkhand; MoEFCC – initiative to conserve tiger along with forest management & community participation – declaration on Jan 2015; India has 70% of the world’s Tiger population; number estimated under 3^rd round of country level tiger assessment – finest technologies like double sampling using camera traps;

3. IIT Madras develop an eco-friendly low cost  building system

By Research team of IITM - Using pre-fabricated panel- made from the waste of fertilizer industries (gypsum & glass fibre) – efficient & sustainable buildings; Building based on Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum Technology (GFRGT) - Building cost is as low as Rs.1250 per square foot – Technology allows for building up to 8 stories - Technology may help in affordable housing projects;  

4. Death due to Non Communicable Disease in India is High : Report by WHO

60% of the total mortality in India during 2014 was due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) – 4 main NCDs – probability of death among 30 & 70 years age group high in India – Heart, Cancer, Diabetes & Respiratory disease; WHO recommend ban on all forms of Tobacco product, Alcohol advertisements, Reducing use of salt content, Replacing Trans Fat with Poly unsaturated fat, promoting & protecting breast feeding, early detection & treatment of High BP, preventing cervical cancer through periodical screening;

5. ESA spacecraft Beagle-2 found on Mars

After 11 years, being considered to be lost by the researchers - UK lead ESA’s Beagle2 – found in the mars by NASA’s Mars Reconisance orbiter; ‘Beagle’ named after HMS  Beagle in which Charles Darwin travelled; Technology Miniature eyes used in the  Beagle 2 is technological marvel – it is to be used in future projects like EXOMARS 2018 Rover;

6. Migratory Birds (IN FOCUS)

Months of December & January - India sub-continent host for Variety of exotic bird species – Moderate climate & rich biodiversity play catalyst;

These birds flock around water bodies – these are migratory birds travel thousands of mile to escape & to survive the harsh winter at native breeding grounds – they undergo elaborate preparation in order to migrate – they stock energy by consuming more food before migration- 40% of the bird living in Europe & Asia are migratory in nature; it is complex biological & ecological phenomenon; these birds are genetically designed to migrate – bigger flight muscle – extra power with natural steroids;   

Migration is too risky and prove Survival of the fittest – threat of human attack, competition for food & resources, shore oil leaks, structures like transmission towers, long distance travelling; some birds fly in the altitude of 50 m where the density of the air is much lesser than at the sea level – they glide using the wind & wave pressure for dynamic soring;

More than 2000 years ago, Aristotle probably first explained the Bird Migration; He noted cranes travel form steppes of Scythia to the marshes of the head water of Nile;

Some Migratory birds coming to India in winter season: Siberian crane, Greater Flamingo, Black wing stilt;

Some Migratory birds coming to India in summer season: Asian koel, black crown night herone, Eurasian golden oriole, comb duck, cuckoos;

7. History of Science Segment
1. Anglo-Irish Chemist Robert Boyle – Born in Jan 1627 – Known for Boyle’s Law – Describe the relationship between absolute pressure and volume of gas if the temperature is kept constant in a closed system;
2. American Physicist of German origin Polykarp Kusch – Born in Jan 1911 -  awarded Nobel prize in physics in 1955 – for the determination of magnetic moment of the electron is greater than its theoretical value;
3. Indian Scientist Raja Ramanna – Born in Jan 1925 – known for his leadership in directing the Indian Nuclear Programme – India’s First Nuclear Device was tested under his supervision in Pokhran 1974 – held important positions like Secy, Dept of Atomic Energy and DG of DRDO;
4. Cannadian Chemical Engineer – Lewis Urry – Born in Jan 1927 – invented the alkaline Battery & Lithium Battery – For this he used Manganese oxide and Zinc powder in an alkaline medium - the batteries worked 40 times longer than the zinc carbon battery;
5. South African Virologist Max Theiler – Born in Jan 1899 – developed a powerful vaccine against yellow fever – was awarded Nobel Prize in Physiology / Medicine in 1951;
6. American Chemist – William Richards – Born in Jan 1868 – Methods for determining the Atomic weight of many chemical element – helped in the research on Isotopes Awarded with the Nobel prize in Chemistry in 1914;
8. Science Express – S & T Activities
1. Indian fast growing largest user of Mobiles in the world – Report on Mobile Internet – Internet & Mobile Association of India (IMAI) and IMRB international;
2. NASA and NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Admin.) Research – 2014 as Earth’s Hottest year on record – sore in temperature due to expulsion of GHG by burning fossil fuels;
3. Symposium on Transforming Mountain Forestry – by Dehradun based Mountain research Institute and ICIMOD (Kathmandu) International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development – developing conducive boundry politically and institutionally to protect the forest ecosystem in the Hindukush Himalayan Region; Addressing the inaugural, Minister invited more Trans boundary cooperation;
4. Harsh Cold Wave – Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Bihar – steps to create warmth to protect animals;
5. World Economic Forum 2015 – Dr. David Nabarro, (US) invited - $1 Bn initiative to fight deadly disease Ebola in the African continent;

Watch it here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sveUMPTgXes&index=1&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpd3_Iz7J-81Vh4QqU-ZGA9

Rajya Sabha TV – Science Monitor (11 Oct 2014)

Weekly update on all the happening in Science & Technology, in and around the nation;

Headlines

1. Nobel Prize 2014 Declared (Special Report)

102^nd Nobel Prize for Medicine/Physiology (6^th Oct 2014) - Jointly to John O’Keete (US), May-Britt Moser & Edvard Moser (Norwegian couples); for Discovering the brain’s positioning system;

Nobel Prize for Physics – Japanese scientist – Isamu Akasaki, Hiroshi Amano, Shuji Nakamura (US) – for energy efficient Blue light emitting diode (Blue LED)

Nobel Prize for Chemistry – Eric Betzig, Stefan W. Hell, W.E. Moemer – for Super resolved single fluorophore microscopy;

2. DST-INSPIRE – 4^th National Level Exhibition – Objective: Creative pursuit of Science, Building critical Human Resource pool to strengthen & expand S&T system and R&D base;

Over 900 students & young researchers participated;

Gold Medal – Zuleika Juliet Antao – Composting Unit- Hermetia Sanitizing Bio-Converter – using organism Black Soldier Fly (BSF)

Silver Medal – T Jayani Jahnavi – Vacuum cleaner Coach – to attach in the rear end of the passanger trains – for efficient & effective cleaning of the Railway tracks;

Many other projects for Public good

Deaf & Dumb voice analysis – unique project – developed by Suresh kumar, 7^th Std – from Tamil Nadu;

3. India’s first Indigenous Confocal Microscope – through PPP

Powerful optical imaging technique - To study 3 dimension features of the samples at the microscopic level; Developed under CSIR – NMITLI (New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative); developed in PPP mode – collaboration with VINVISH Technologies Pvt. Ltd & CSIR’s Central Glass & Ceramic Research Labs; CGCRI developed Photonic Crystal fibre Technology whereas VINVISH Technologies contributed towards Product design & development; the device uses Special Super Continuum Light Source; largely used in Biomedical imaging & analysis – other research areas especially concerning spectroscopic behaviour  material, Nano Material, Biological Specimen;

4. Novel study to understand the effect of Tibet Plateau in climatic changes – New Meteorological study;

At the wake of Massive flood in Kashmir & Pakistan; New Study launched by China Meteorological Administration & National Natural Science Foundation of China – with budget Outlay of $49 Mn; 32m high towers fitted with sensors to be erected in the Tibetan Plateau – to measure cloud properties, Also to use Temperature & Moisture detector to measure the soil properties and Researchers to use sensor mounted weather balloons & UAV; Data collected would help predicting effect on Climate Change;  Largest & Highest vast elevated Plateau -  Glacier & 3^rd largest stock of Ice (3^rd pole) – covers Ladak, TAR region, Shangai region of China; High Altitude – more insolation – giant heating plateau – affect the atmospheric circulation – intensifies the monsoon – by affecting land ocean temperature differences lead to pressure gradients;

5. DST’s INSPIRE program – 4^th National Exhibition (IN FOCUS)

Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research INSPIRE – National programme implemented by Dept. of Science & Technology; for young researcher (10-32 years) – provides fellowship for doctoral research to students, faculty program for assured career opportunity; INSPIRE held about 1046 Science camps till date;

Objective: to promote scientific & technological education in India; aims to create scientifically qualified Human resource pool; to expand the scientific acumen of the country;

Young children – wealth of the nation – unbound imagination – extraordinary creativity – to bring much needed social changes in the country;

Projects based to solve crucial issues prevalent in society;

Procedure for INSPIRE AWARD (10-15 years): Merit based selection – HM of school – details to District Education Authority – then to DST through State Authority;

INSPIRE Internship (Age 16-17 years), INSPIRE Scholarship (Age 17-22 years), INSPIRE Fellowship (Age 22-27), and INSPIRE Faculty Program (Age 27-32);

6. History of Science
1. Italian Scientist Ascanio Sobrero – born in 1812 – invented the highly explosive compound Nitroglycerin – unstable chemical – in an experiment on a reaction between Nitric acid & glycerin – realizing destructive power of the chemical, he warned the others;
2. Indian Scientist Dr. APJ Abdul kalam – born in 1931 – 11^th president of India – Missile Man of India – Missile Technology & Launch vehicle Technology – Critical Role both Technological & Political in the Atomic test of 1998 Pokran II;
3. India’s First Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) – Tamil Nadu- commissioned in 1985 with 40 MW power – IGCAR Campus – uses Carbide of Uranium & Plutonium as fuel & Liquid Sodium as coolant;
7. Science & Technology Activities across the country – Science Express
1. Research Study – Ohio State University – World’s First Solar Battery – Rechargeable Solar Battery – Affordable Renewable Resources of Energy;
2. IISc Report – evidence of Tsunami hit 1000 years back – Indian East Coast;
3. Martin Pearl – Professor of Stanford University – discovered Tau Lepton particle – Sub Atomic Particle – by Colliding of Electron & positron in Accelerator;
4. Indian Origin Scientist Prof. Kailash – to receive National Medal of Science – Highest prestigious US Award for contribution in S & T- Doctorate in Electrical Engineering from University of Massachusetts in 1961;
5. Total Eclipse of moon – Oct 8, 2014 – Beginning of Umbra phase visible at Argentina, Brazil, North Atlantic Ocean, Greenland; End of Umbra phase visible at Indian Ocean , Western part of China, Kazakhstan & Russia;

Watch it here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EF1pC2d0lWA&index=16&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpd3_Iz7J-81Vh4QqU-ZGA9

PM address to Indian Science Conference

03 Jan 2015 (AIR News Analysis)

Dialogue on PM address to Indian Science Conference

Participants: Prof. M P Srivatsav, Delhi University, and Dinesh C Sharma, Science writer.

Transcription:

102^nd Session of Indian Science Conference – Inauguration ceremony – PM Modi – point related to Sci-Tech Development – usually the forum used by the PM to make new announce & connect with the Sci-Community and to chart out future course of action; Several issues highlighted by PM – Role of S&T in the nation building – Nehru placed Sci-Tech at the heart of National Development – indicates the continuity of the idea with the new govt. – without departure from the overall goal;

Focus more on development of S&T for rural area – Health care; Jawarlal Nehru – laid the foundation for Scientific Temper in every individual – it is more rigorous with the new Modi govt. – aspire to reach the benefit of S&T to the common man; Science should not only be done out of Curiosity but also with Compassion – the thing which comes out should touch the heart of the society;

History of Space Technology – Moon Mission, Mission to Mars – Satellite, Communication, Weather forecast;

Effect taking place in the Hudhud Prediction, prevented huge material & human loss; Research initiative in Biotech and Nanotech; collaboration between institutions, National Institutes, Universities and young Minds;

How Ease of Doing Business is important in the Economic, similarly Ease of Doing Research in S&T – cutting all red Tapism – flexibility in funding decision.

System of peer review – it should be genuine – plagiarism should be prevented – quality of R&D – Quality assurance system with in University level as well National level;

China excel in the Key leader of advance technology, India should expand Knowledge in Technology – essential for emerging manufacturing hub; How India can make?

Science, Technology & Innovation – all the three things goes together; Industries put effort on CSR –Social responsibility should come in to picture – instead of celebrating CSR – finish off the things which are not useful to the society - directly make use in solving the research problem; A revolution is expected with the Nano Technology – useful to the mankind – Air quality, water, food, type of pro bacteria, - Nano biotechnology, Nano Technology and Nano Science should be integrated; 

He didn’t promise for the extra funding?

Mentor part of the university is lacking, funding is not the real issue; Mental part – thinking – mind – idea; Operation can be much easier if Red Tapism is removed; 2% mandatory for the companies to invest in R&D; Industry funding;

CSR funds being used in Education, health care… so part of the fund can be directed to the Research institutes; that apart the industries should have joint projects with the Research Institute and University – Trilateral collaboration is very essential;

Gist of PM address at 102^nd ISC 2015

1. Scientific temper of individual (as inculcated by Jawaharlal Nehru) – for the benefit of the society – benefit of S&T should reach the common man.

2. Scientific research not out of curiosity but with compassion – should touch the heart of the society;

3. Timely prediction (e.g. Hudhud) prevents men & material losses – collaboration between Institutions, Universities is essential.

4. Ease of doing Research in S&T on the lines of Ease of doing business – to get rid of Red- Tapism and unnecessary project delays – system of peer review and quality assurance system;

5. China excel as Key leader in advanced technologies – India need to expand its knowledge in Technology for being an emerging manufacturing hub.

6. 2%Mandatory for the companies to spend on R &D, apart from that, a Part of CSR – Social Responsibility should be directed to the research institutions.

Also read,

Indian Science Myth or Theory? Real test of Scientific Temper

http://www.jammag.com/indian-science-myths-or-theories/ 

Rajya Sabha TV – Science Monitor (04 Oct 2014)

Weekly update on all the happening in Science & Technology, in and around the nation;

Headlines

1. ISRO’s Mangalyaan sends images of Martian surface

After entering Martian orbit- Mangalyaan sent the first image of Mars on 25^th September 2014 – pictures were taken from an altitude of 74,500 Kms from the surface of the Mars – images of Regional dust strome in Northern Hemisphere of Mars – Mars Color Camera MCC (Tri-Colour gives information surface, features & composition) – Scan its Atmosphere for Methane, an indicator of life; Methane Sensor, Mars Colour Camera and Thermal IR spectrometer – to map the surface for mineral wealth of the planet; First Inter-planetary with the budget outlay of $74Mn – Based on Indigenous technology with lowest Budget compared to other space agency;

2. NASA-ISRO collaboration

India & US agreed to collaborate in the future Mars Exploration; NASA Admin Charles and ISRO Chair Radhakrishnan – signed an Agreement @ Toronta sidelines of International Astronautical Conference; after the success of Mangalyan & Maven; Research include Ecosystem & natural Hazards; NASA-ISRO Mars Working Group will be established & will meet annually– Agreement defines role of the agencies in NISAR (Nasa Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar) – Radar Imagery of Earth in unprecedented detail;

3. NASA’s Curiosity rover drills first hole into Mount Sharp

Rock samples have been collected – to understand the Chemical composition & Environment of the Planet; NASA’s JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory) received the data & images of the process; Mount Sharp is a layered mountain in Mars;

NASA’s mars rover CURIOSITY – cars sized Robotic rover – launched on Nov 2011 – landed on Aeolis Palus in Gale Crater of mars on Aug 2012 – completed a Martian year i.e. 687 Earth Day on 24 June 2014;

4. Preterm Birth, Pneumonia leading causes of child mortality across the globe

Child Mortality, Neonatal deaths serious concerns worldwide –In India mortality rate is high till the age of 5 years; Team from Institute of International Programme under Dr. Lee Leo - Study report- 6.3 million death in children under the age of five year – India, Nigeria, Pakistan, DR Congo, China account for 50% death in 2013 alone – of this 52.5% account for Neonatal death; Neonatal period indicates the duration of 0 to 27 days after birth; Preterm birth & pneumonia are the two major causes; In India 3.6 million babies are born preterm – over 3 lakh preterm babies die each year; premature birth taking place before, Mother should pregnant at least 37 weeks; the second leading factor – Pneumonia – cause 0.93 million death annually; pneumonia easily affect the infants as their lungs are immature & more prone to infection – measures like immunization, sanitation, water supply, prevent prematurity by quality care pre & post Natal; pneumonia can be cured by early diagnosis; Diarrhea also recognized as a serious cause of child mortality; Breastfeeding for six months very important for child; this can reduce child mortality in long run;

5. Global wildlife population hits a big decline since 1970 to 2010 – WWF Report

52% of world wildlife population vanished in past 40 years; Alarming fact from the (WWF Report) World Wildlife Report “The living planet Report 2014” 39% of terrestrial wildlife, 39% of marine wildlife, 76% of fresh water wildlife vanished globally; The population of marine turtles has reduced by 80% while Elephants in Africa facing threat of extinction; 60% of essential services provided by the nature in the form of Forests & seas are also declining due to over exploitation; It also states the unusual increase in carbon & nitrogen in our atmosphere – let to climate change & degradation of land, river & ocean; High Income countries show 10% increase in Biodiversity whereas Middle income countries show 18% decline, and Low Income countries show 58% decline;  The report study on 3 aspect – firstly, Population of more than 10k water breed species; secondly Human-Ecological Footprints (Measure of consumption of goods, GHG emission), thirdly existing bio-capacity (i.e. Natural resources to produce foods);

6. National level essay writing competition in Hindi on Malaria – by CSIR-OSDD initiative in collaboration with  Vigyan Prasar - campaign to create awareness amongst masses;

Neglected Tropical diseases – TB & Malaria – Major public health problem – awareness & preventive measures;

7. Relevance of Mars Orbiter  Mission MOM for India (IN FOCUS)

First Asian Nation to reach the Mars; First Inter-planetary mission; Entitled India among the space powers like US, Europe, & Russia; MOM attained it in its very maiden attempt; India also has a successful unmanned Chandrayaan mission in 2008;

Societal benefits & development integral part of India Space programme – It is being utilized for Health & Education through Communication Satellite, Indian weather satellite improved the weather forecasts – 270 Technologies developed has been transferred to the Industries for commercial benefits; Like others, Indian scientists also see Mars as a possible future habitat;

With Rs.450 Cr- low cost MOM  establish India as a significant & reliable player in space industry – ISRO expecting to gain lucrative space deals with US & EU; Estimate says the mission cost about Rs.5.77 per Km; It also established the Indian PSLV is much reliable for the global market; (PSLC C25) – (refer NISAR - India US);

8. History of Science
1. Danish Physicist Nells Henrik David Bohr Born in 1885 – Deciphered spectral emission lines of the Hydrogen atom using Quantum mechanics- led to the foundation of Quantum Physics; Bohr Model of Atom (Positive charged nucleus surrounded by negative electron) – theory of Nuclear fission;
2. Indian Physicst G N Ramachandran – Born in 1922 – first to develop the triple helical model of collagen(collective of naturally occurring protein found abundantly in Mammals)
3. German Physicist Max von Laue – Born in 1879 – Nobel Prize  in Physics in 1914 for work on X-ray diffraction in crystals;
4. Indian Mathamatician & Physicist Harish Chandra – Born in 1923 – Fundamental research in Representation Theory – branch of mathematics – studies the abstract algebraic structure by representing the  elements as linear transformation of vector space & study modules over these algebraic structures;
9. S & T activities across India – Science Express Segment
1. World Heart Day 2014 – 29 Sep – Walk for Heart Rally – awareness of Cardio vascular problems – need for disciplined lifestyle; Nov 7 will be National Cancer Awareness – Health Ministry;  
2. India &Russia to collaborate in Scientific education for Economic growth – 5 niche areas has been identified – Biomedical science, Nuclear power, Information Technology, Energy Efficiency and Aerospace; Russia interested to develop India-Russia Joint Scientific Research Centers – to work on Technology Transfer;
3. Dept. of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Min. of Agri – to include Bihar in the Foot & mouth Disease control during 2014-15 – under CSS Livestock health & disease control; Cattle &  Buffalo population should be vaccinated against FMD;
4. Europe’s ESA to send first mission to Comet;

Watch it here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrdT0hwhOGA&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpd3_Iz7J-81Vh4QqU-ZGA9&index=17

India US Relationship, US Prez visit India on Republic day 2015

Security implication of the US Prez visit

20 Jan 2015 (All India Radio - News Analysis)

Participants: Anil Kamboach, Former IG, BSG and Diwesh Kumar Pandey, The Hindu

Transcription:

What is going to be the perceptional and real change about the security arrangement being made for US Prez visit?

1600 Security personnel from US; Indian Force: 7 different layer of Security – Outermost Paramilitary Force (CRPF, CISF, BSF) – Second layer (Vehicle parking) Cameras identifying Individuals (system initially fed with the photos of the known criminals);

Concern of US Security force – as US prez is to be out in the open ground for long 2 hours?

Close coordination with the Delhi Police – scrutinizing the likely routes to be taken – RADARs, No-Fly Zone;

Elaborate security   - highest level of security – as US involved in the fight against ISIS – threat from the terrorist outfit?

War against ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Islamic Fundamentalist; suspicious message would be intercepted, will be monitored;

Counter measure by the Govt. to prevent Infiltration?

Probable infiltration usually through International border and LoC – Borders are in Red Alert;

Peace during the visit – How important for the Indian Force?

Pakistan will not peaceful with the talk of Obama - Indian Security Agency has taken due precautions;

Threat from Taliban? As they don’t take any activities in Indo-Pak Border.

Taliban fight against the Authority/Established Govt. in Afghanistan;

Good Taliban – Haqqani Group – which Pakistan Support, to disturb the neighboring countries and whereas Bad Taliban – which fight against the Security force;

Breaking away from the Norms/convention visiting dignitary to be accompanied by the Indian PM during Republic Day Celebration;

US Prez to travel in his own convoy “The Beast” heavier than 747 Aircraft – Blast proof;

Blocking of Agra Super High Way – baring the problem other passenger - for VVVIP Security;

Day & Night Alertness – Intelligence Camera – Information/Data sharing with Indian & US security Agencies - Coordination;

____________________________________________________________________________

Indo US Trade Agenda

22 Jan 2015(All India Radio - News Analysis)

Participants: Chinthamani Mahapatra, JNU and Mahendra ved, Senior Journalist

Transcription:

Ahead of US Prez Obama Visit to India; John Kerry visits India – Economic side?

Indo US Economic Relation; EU facing economic crisis since 2008 and similarly china, Brazilian, Russian all developing economies are in crisis whereas India’s Economy is reviving; It could be more than that of China by 2016; Modi’s Foreign Policy agenda so far dominated with Economics – from Japanese $35Bn investment committed; with Chinese Prez $20Bn investment committed; with US $41Bn could come to India; Opening Indian Market to Foreign Technologies & Investment;

Apart from this – the relation carry its own problems – Climate Issue, IPR issues, Nuke liability Clause… India’s entire economy depends on Coal sourced Energy which contradict with the Climate Change commitment;

India’s Pollution of GHG is few/minute fraction compared to that of China & US; Dynamic growth of India’s Economy demand more energy – dependence on Fossil Fuel; Collaboration with US in Technology Transfer – Clean Energy Generation; and Nuke Dimension – it involves lot of Business – GE & Westinghouse US based Companies – Liability clause; Non-Nuclear but Renewable source of Energy – Solar power generation; IPR issue: Production of Generic drug to ensure universal access of Medical facility in India, India cannot compromise at the cost of Indian Masses;

John Kerry was here for Vibrant Gujarat; any solution made for the above issues?

Time is too short – negotiations are going on; revival of relationship after khobargade Issue;

Will this meet would provide specific deals or just broad parameter?

Beyond symbolic issuance of statement – this time something concrete could come out; In Defence sector, US want to build relation beyond mere trader – 17 different Technology Transfer offered for negotiation; Sensitive Technology- speed boat surveillance over Chinese;

John Kerry pitching for 5 times growth in India- US Trade i.e. $500 Bn, as already China –US Trade reached above $500Bn;

Modi aspire for $20Trillion Economy much ahead of US; India’s Investment in US goes 30 times higher since 2000 (From $300Mn to $9Bn);

Opening IPR Issues; Problems of FDI – Insurance, Bank, Health Sector, Defence Production; US demand India to open up all sector;

American is typically Businessman – India’s Demographic Distribution is different – so India’s is more careful country – to ensure Social Justice to the masses;

Rajiv Gandhi Era – Bhopal UCC case – Bad Experience;

Bhopal Gas Tragedy happened in a Chemical Company but we have frightening Nuke incidents of Chernobyl, Fukishima – India’s Concern is that Nuke Trade should be 100% foolproof – 100% liability on the Company never happen across the world, it hinder the Business;

Job creation in both the country;

Outsourcing cannot be encouraged in US; India demand free flow of capital & free flow of Labour/Services; Win-Win situation can be made with some compromises;  

Significance of US Prez visit

25 Jan 2015(All India Radio - News Analysis)

Participants: Prof. Subrato Mukherjie, Former Faculty, Delhi University and Adithi Tandan, Associate Editor, Tribune

Transcription:

High held summit among Indian PM & US Prez – significant revival of the bilateral relation 

however in tarter about a year ago – after the Khobargade Issue; First US Prez to attend Republic day function;

Lot of substantial issues to be carried – Joint statement, Defence, Climate Change, Indo-US Nuke deal; how do you see the progress in Indo-US Relationship?

Historic moment; Entire period of recent history – bi-partisanship of India’s Foreign Policy; first point made by our PM is Civil Nuke Deal done during UPA Regime; Cornerstone of relation revolves around that; two larger democracies; ultimately larger process of decision making in foreign policy; larger perception on context national interest, context of leadership, context of people to people relation, context of civilization term;

PM Modi – repeatedly address US Prez as Barack – sort of personal understanding; breaking convention, PM himself went to receive Foreign visiting dignitary;

Emphasis on Symbolism – Obama interview to a Magazine in India – recognize the symbolic visit to India, to begin new era of history between the two countries;

Symbolism vs. Sub tern part after joint declaration, how do you see it?

Symbolism matter quite abate specially in this usual age– Domestic pattern of politics and International politics converge; US Prez concentrate more on Legislature process whereas Indian PM focus on Electoral process;

Symbolism is metaphorically a departure from the past practice, for instance: tradition in the cold war days or follow up of NAM, a equidistance – moved to new partnership – unilateral world – Ideological battle of yesteryears are relegated back foot; US see India as Emerging power, Democratic power, Countervailing power, Stabilizing Power in the South Asia; In that context Asia without India is incomplete;

Deliverable made at the joint statement – Indo US civil Nuke deal (commercial agreement after 6 years) – Liability clause (Supplier Clause); and on Clean Energy Issue – to address the Climate Change – US agreement with China – US pressurize India to accept some sort of Emission cut; How do you look at these pressures?

US & China agreement lack specificity – it is just a broad area of agreement; Economic development, levels of Development is very different among India, US and China; Climate change & Global warming are major concern;

India’s Interest – Permanent membership in UN – US affirm India met the requirement of NMCT to get membership in NSG; but US was not seem to be active in promoting India’s Call;

UNSC is different all together; If Germany is included, Italy will oppose; If Japan included, Korea may not like it; If Brazil is included, Argentina will oppose; If India is included, there is expected opposition from Pakistan; So it working on Idea of Rotational System of Term Membership; President has accepted the need for the Reform;

India and America shared interest in Asia Pacific Region - China’s Assertion in South China sea - US siding Indian Interest on that – how do you see it?

There should be Equilibrium – the region is growing;

“Nobel Friends and Companions are whole of the holy life” – PM Modi

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaly%C4%81%E1%B9%87a-mittat%C4%81

Also to note:

“What Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said then remains true today - “The spirit of Gandhi is very much alive in India today. And it remains a great gift to the world. May we always live in his spirit of love and peace – among all people and nations, he wrote in the guest book.

(Barrack Obama, on 25 Jan 2015 – in Visitor’s Log - Rajghat)