July 10, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
A Journey through ISRO's Launch Vehicles | Explained
Take a fascinating journey through the launch vehicles of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), exploring their significance and contributions to India's space program. From the pioneering SLV-3, which marked India's entry into the satellite launch domain, to the versatile PSLV, the GSLV variants, and the powerful GSLV Mk III, each launch vehicle has played a crucial role in shaping India's space exploration and technological advancements. Together, these launch vehicles showcase ISRO's commitment to pushing boundaries, fostering innovation, and propelling India's scientific progress in the global space arena.
Highlights of the Day
1. The Crisis of the WTO's Dispute Settlement System
The World Trade Organization's (WTO) dispute settlement system (DSS), particularly the non-functionality of its appellate body, has become a significant issue. The United States has blocked the appointment of members to the appellate body, leading to its paralysis. The US criticizes the appellate body for judicial overreach and creating binding precedents, which it believes exceeds its mandate. However, the appellate body argues that it strives for consistency in interpreting and applying WTO agreements without creating binding precedents. The US's opposition to the appellate body seems to be part of a larger strategy to de-judicialize trade multilateralism and regain control over its trade policies. Negotiating with the US to revive the appellate body is deemed futile, and alternative options, such as resorting to voting to elect members, may antagonize the US [1].
2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art to Return 15 Antiquities to India in the Next 3-6 Months
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has agreed to return fifteen antiquities to India, marking the first voluntary return of such items by the museum. These artifacts are part of a larger group of 150 antiquities that will be returned to India from the United States within the next 3-6 months. Efforts are being made to verify and bring back the artifacts, which were held by US authorities. The restitution of cultural heritage is a significant theme in India's G20 Presidency, and India is pursuing agreements for the return of antiquities through bilateral and multilateral channels. Progress has been made during the G20 Culture Working Group meeting in bridging opinions and working towards a consensus among member countries and guest nations [2].
3. PAU Develops High-Nutrition Wheat Variety PBW RS1 for Nutritional Security
The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has shifted its research focus from quantity to quality and food security to nutritional security. PAU has developed a new wheat variety called PBW RS1, which has high amylose starch content and resistant starch. Consuming chapatis made from this wheat leads to a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The variety also has a lower glycemic index and can help combat diet-related diseases like obesity and diabetes. However, PBW RS1 has a lower grain yield than other varieties, posing a challenge for farmers. PAU aims to promote PBW RS1 as a high-value product with medicinal and nutritional benefits and urges the government to support its marketing. The seeds will be made available to farmers for cultivation in the upcoming rabi season, and PBW RS1 is resistant to fungal diseases [3].
4. Delhi High Court Upholds Revocation of Intellectual Property Protection for PepsiCo's Potato Variety FL 2027
The Delhi High Court has upheld the decision of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA) to revoke PepsiCo India's intellectual property protection for a potato variety called FL 2027. The variety, developed by PepsiCo, is suitable for making chips due to its high dry matter and low sugar content. PepsiCo obtained a certificate of registration for FL 2027 in 2016, but the PPVFRA revoked it in 2021 due to incorrect information provided by the company regarding the variety's commercialization date and its classification as a "new variety." The court ruled that the protection granted is subject to complete disclosure, and PepsiCo's application did not meet the criteria for novelty [4].
5. ISRO to Transfer SSLV Project to Private Sector for On-Demand Satellite Launch Services
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to transfer its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to the private sector after conducting two development flights. The SSLV is designed to provide on-demand launch services for satellites weighing up to 500 kg in low-earth orbit. The ISRO will use a bidding process to transfer the entire SSLV project to the private industry. The SSLV had a failed maiden flight in August last year, but the ISRO addressed the issues and successfully launched the SSLV in February this year. The SSLV is intended for launching nano and micro-satellites, offering more flexible and timely launch options. The move to involve the private sector in SSLV operations aligns with the growing commercialization of India's space industry, which is expected to contribute significantly to the economy in the coming years [5].
Source: The Hindu | Indian Express
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Among the rockets developed by ISRO, which one is also referred to as "Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3)" and has the capability to launch heavier satellites into higher orbits?
a) Satellite Launch Vehicle-3 (SLV-3)
b) Advanced Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV)
c) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
d) Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
Q2: Which of the following is a type of diabetes characterized by insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels, often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity?
a) Type 1 diabetes
b) Type 2 diabetes
c) Gestational diabetes
d) Pre-diabetes
Q3: International agreements, such as the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), aim to:
a) Limit the scope of intellectual property protection worldwide
b) Promote fair and equitable access to intellectual property for all countries
c) Eliminate intellectual property rights altogether for greater accessibility
d) Harmonize intellectual property laws and standards among member countries
Q4: Identify the significant rivers mentioned in the Sangam literature that played a vital role in the economic and cultural life of ancient South India.
a) Kaveri, Vaigai, and Palar
b) Godavari, Krishna, and Tungabhadra
c) Mahanadi, Pennar, and Cauvery
d) Narmada, Tapti, and Sabarmati
Q5: The Agreement on Agriculture (AOA) is a significant component of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Which of the following statements regarding the AOA is correct?
a) It aims to eliminate all agricultural subsidies and promote free trade in the agricultural sector.
b) It focuses on protecting domestic agriculture by imposing high tariffs on imported agricultural products.
c) It sets rules and disciplines for agricultural trade, including market access, domestic support, and export subsidies.
d) It primarily addresses environmental concerns related to agricultural practices and sustainability.
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Evaluate the role of WTO in global trade governance and analyze its impact on developing countries. Discuss the challenges faced by developing countries in participating effectively in the WTO and suggest measures to enhance their engagement for inclusive and equitable trade. (Word limit: 250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
What we see matters
Some insightful observations from past UPSC papers:
Major pollutants, their environmental impact, and the industries releasing them have been repeatedly asked in UPSC Prelims. Students are advised to have an overview of the same.
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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