Daily Prelims Notes 26 January 2025

January 26, 2025
Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
Category: DPN

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Daily Prelims Notes

26 January 2025

Table Of Contents

1. Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak in Pune

Sub: Sci

Sec: Health

Why in News

A Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) outbreak has been reported in Pune district, prompting the Union Health Ministry to deploy a seven-member team to support the Maharashtra government in managing the situation.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS):

GBS is a rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.
It often leads to symptoms such as numbness in limbs, weakness, or prolonged diarrhoea.
Bacterial and viral infections are common triggers, as they weaken the immune system.
The exact cause of GBS is unknown. It is often preceded by an infection, such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, nerve conduction studies, and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained through lumbar puncture.
Treatment options include intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and plasmapheresis (plasma exchange).
Recovery can take weeks to years, with about a third of patients experiencing some permanent weakness.
Globally, the mortality rate is approximately 7.5%.
GBS is rare, affecting 1 to 2 individuals per 100,000 annually.
Miller Fisher syndrome is a variant of GBS characterized by eye muscle paralysis, coordination problems, and absent reflexes.

2. India’s Revised Obesity Guidelines

Sub: Sci

Sec: Health

Why in News

India has updated its obesity diagnosis and treatment guidelines after 15 years. This revision aligns with a global call for recalibration of how obesity is measured and takes into account recent findings on fat distribution and health risks, particularly in the Asian Indian population.

Revised Classification System:

Two Stages of Obesity:

Innocuous Obesity: Increased body fat without organ or metabolic dysfunction.
Obesity with Consequences: Adverse impacts on physical functions and obesity-related diseases.

Special emphasis on fat distribution in the abdominal area due to its particularly adverse effects on Indian populations.

Lower BMI Thresholds for Indians:

Overweight: 23-24.9 kg/m² (revised from 25 kg/m²).
Obesity: ≥25 kg/m² (compared to the Western standard of ≥30 kg/m²).

Ideal Waistline Measurements:

Men: ≤90 cm (Western standard: 102 cm).
Women: ≤80 cm (Western standard: 88 cm).

Why are Indian Bodies Different?

Indian populations tend to have higher levels of body fat and develop conditions like diabetes at lower BMI thresholds than Western populations.
Excess fat leads to higher inflammation and metabolic disorders in Indians.
Strong correlation between abdominal obesity and conditions such as insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

About Body Mass Index (BMI):

BMI is a numerical value derived from an individual’s weight and height, providing a general indication of body fatness.
BMI = Weight (kg) / Height² (m²)
- For example, a person weighing 70 kg with a height of 1.75 meters would have a BMI of 22.86.
BMI Categories
- Underweight: BMI < 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5–24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25–29.9
- Obesity: BMI ≥ 30
  - Class 1: BMI 30–34.9
  - Class 2: BMI 35–39.9
  - Class 3: BMI ≥ 40
BMI is widely used to assess and monitor weight categories within populations, aiding in public health decision-making.
In clinical settings, BMI serves as a preliminary screening tool to identify individuals who may be at risk for weight-related health conditions.

Limitations of BMI:

BMI does not distinguish between lean body mass and fat mass, potentially misclassifying muscular individuals as overweight or obese.
It fails to consider where fat is distributed in the body, which is crucial since abdominal fat is more closely linked to health risks.
BMI thresholds may not be appropriate across all ethnic groups due to differences in body composition and fat distribution.

3. Project Stargate: America’s Bid to Dominate Artificial Intelligence

Sub: Sci

Sec: Awareness of Computer and AI

Why in News

The United States has launched Project Stargate, a $500-billion initiative spearheaded by President Donald Trump. This ambitious project seeks to establish the U.S. as the global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), amidst increasing competition from China.

About Project Stargate:

To build the largest AI infrastructure in history by creating a network of AI-optimized data centres and advanced generative AI models.
Investment:
- Initial funding of $100 billion committed by SoftBank.
- Additional investments totalling $400 billion over the next four years.
- The total investment surpasses the inflation-adjusted cost of the Manhattan Project, which stood at approximately $30 billion in today’s currency.
Key Players:
- OpenAI: Leading the project with its cutting-edge generative AI models.
- Oracle: Hosting OpenAI’s models and building AI data centres.
- SoftBank: Major financial backer with plans to liquidate some holdings to meet funding requirements.
Experts have raised concerns over the $500-billion claim, suggesting it might be overestimated unless SoftBank sells significant assets like Alibaba and Arm holdings.

The Manhattan Project:

The Manhattan Project was a pivotal research and development initiative during World War II, undertaken by the United States with support from the United Kingdom and Canada.
Its primary objective was to develop the first nuclear weapons, marking a significant milestone in modern warfare and science.
In 1938, German chemists discovered nuclear fission, raising concerns about Nazi Germany potentially developing atomic weapons.
Prompted by this threat, physicists Leo Szilard and Albert Einstein alerted U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt to the possibility of nuclear weapons, leading to increased government interest in atomic research.
Formally initiated in 1942, the Manhattan Project was led by Major General Leslie Groves of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The scientific efforts were directed by physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, who oversaw the design and construction of the atomic bombs at the Los Alamos Laboratory in New Mexico.
The Manhattan Project led to groundbreaking advancements in nuclear physics and engineering, including:
Nuclear Fission: Understanding and harnessing the process to release immense energy.
Plutonium Production: Developing methods to produce and purify plutonium for use in weapons.
Weaponization: Designing and constructing deliverable atomic bombs.
The first successful test of an atomic bomb, codenamed “Trinity,” occurred on July 16, 1945, in the New Mexico desert. Following this, two atomic bombs were deployed:
- Hiroshima: On August 6, 1945, the “Little Boy” uranium bomb was dropped, causing unprecedented destruction.
- Nagasaki: On August 9, 1945, the “Fat Man” plutonium bomb was detonated, leading to Japan’s surrender and the end of World War II.

4. India and Indonesia stress peace in ASEAN region

Sub: IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

At a recent meeting at Hyderabad House, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining peace, security, and freedom of navigation in Southeast Asia.
The Indonesian President is the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations.

More on News:

President Subianto recalled Indonesia’s historical ties with India, noting that India was one of the first supporters of Indonesia’s independence struggle against Dutch colonization after World War II.
The Indonesian President linked India’s current advocacy for South-South cooperation to the historic India-Indonesia consensus formed during the 1955 Bandung conference.
He also expressed appreciation for India’s support for Indonesia’s recent admission to the BRICS grouping.

Bandung conference:

In April, 1955, representatives from twenty-nine governments of Asian and African nations gathered in Bandung, Indonesia to discuss peace and the role of the Third World in the Cold War, economic development, and decolonization.
The conference was a key moment for nations that had recently gained independence, many of them having been former colonies of European powers. It marked the emergence of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Non-Aligned Movement:

The Non-Aligned Movement was formed during the Cold War as an organization of States that did not seek to formally align themselves with either the United States or the Soviet Union, but sought to remain independent or neutral.
It was established in 1961 in Belgrade, former Yugoslavia under the leadership of the then Indian Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, President of Egypt Gamal Abdel Nasser and the President of Yugoslavia Josip Broz Tito.
It has 120 members at present, comprising 53 countries from Africa, 39 from Asia, 26 from Latin America and the Caribbean and 2 from Europe (Belarus, Azerbaijan).

Importance of the Partnership:

Indonesia is an important partner in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific The region is facing various challenges, including territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
Both countries are committed towards maintaining peace, security, prosperity and rules-based order in this entire region.

Areas of Cooperation:

The discussions led to the signing of various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) focusing on sectors such as health, culture, traditional medicine, and maritime safety.
Indonesia expressed interest in attracting Indian hospital chains to establish facilities in the country. They are also looking for Indian expertise in training healthcare professionals and establishing internships for students and technicians.
Prime Minister Modi outlined potential areas of cooperation between India and Indonesia, which include defence manufacturing and supply chains, maritime security, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and de-radicalization.

Sabang port:

India is developing a Deep-Sea Port in Indonesia’s Sabang close to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Sabang Port is positioned close to the Strait of Malacca, a vital shipping route that connects the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. This makes it significant for maritime trade between India and Southeast Asia.

About Indonesia:

Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Indian and Pacific oceans.
It consists of over 17,000 islands, including Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and parts of Borneo and New Guinea.
Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic state and the 14th-largest country by area.
Indonesia shares land borders with Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and the eastern part of Malaysia, as well as maritime borders with Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia, Palau, and India.

5. 362 border villages to get 4G mobile connectivity by June, says Amit Shah

Sub: Schemes

Sec: Security

Context:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that by June, 362 villages along the northern border will receive 4G connectivity under the Vibrant Village Programme.

Vibrant Village Programme:

The programme envisages coverage of border villages on Northern border having sparse population, limited connectivity and infrastructure, which often get left out from the development gains.
Launched in April 2023, the programme covers 662 villages along the China border and has a budget of ₹4,800 crore.
The activities will include construction of village infrastructure, housing, tourist centres, road connectivity, provisioning of decentralized renewable energy, direct to home access for Doordarshan and educational channels, and support for livelihood generation.

Approved Projects:

The government has sanctioned 626 infrastructure projects, which include community halls, eco-tourism initiatives, and track routes. 113 border roads have already been sanctioned to enhance connectivity in remote areas.
Additionally, 901 projects focused on generating employment opportunities have received approval.
Under the programme, 570 banks have been established to provide essential facilities to local residents.

Community Engagement:

The Vibrant Village Programme was developed with input from border village residents.
The programme not only focuses on physical and digital connectivity but also aims to foster emotional bonds, bridging the gap between Delhi and the border communities.
The Home Minister stressed the importance of instilling a sense of unity among residents of remote and border areas, reinforcing their integral role in India.
He cited the example of Ladakh, where the freezing of diesel during winter posed significant challenges. The government allocated funds for research to develop non-freezing diesel, which is now available in the region.

6. Vande Bharat Express Reaches Kashmir Valley

Sub: Geo

Sec: Indian Mapping

Context : On the eve of Republic Day, the Vande Bharat Express achieved a significant milestone by entering the Kashmir Valley for the first time. Following two months of trial runs, the train traversed the challenging high-altitude terrain of the Pir Panjal Mountain range, connecting the Valley with the Jammu region.

Key Highlights of the Journey

Inaugural Run:
The saffron-and-white Vande Bharat Express departed from Katra station in Jammu at 8 a.m. and reached Srinagar station by 11 a.m., covering the 190 km distance in 3 hours.
Engineering Marvel:
The route includes several engineering marvels such as the Anji Khad Bridge (India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge) and the Chenab Bridge (the world’s tallest railway bridge).

Vande Bharat Express: Features

Advanced Technology:
The train is equipped to operate in sub-zero temperatures, with technologies designed for extreme cold conditions, including:
- Bio-toilet tanks
- A unique air-brake system
- Warm air circulation systems
- Triple-layered windscreens with heating filaments for winter visibility
Enhanced Connectivity:
- This ambitious rail link reduces travel time between Delhi and Srinagar to 13 hours, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity across rugged terrains.
- It serves as an alternative to the two primary road routes — Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Rajouri-Jammu.

About Chenab Bridge

World’s Tallest Railway Bridge:
- Standing tall over the Chenab River in Reasi, Jammu, the Chenab Bridge is an iconic symbol of India’s engineering prowess. It is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link.
Construction Feats:
- Built to withstand seismic and extreme weather conditions.
Located on one of the most challenging terrains, requiring advanced drilling and construction techniques.
Accompanied by 27 tunnels and 37 bridges between Banihal and Katra on the 111-km section.

Anji Khad Bridge: India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge

Design Features:
- The bridge is constructed over the Anji River in the Reasi district of Jammu.
- It uses advanced technology to ensure stability and durability in mountainous and seismic-prone areas.
Strategic Importance:
- It serves as a vital link for the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail line, facilitating smooth connectivity across difficult terrains.

7. Nano-urea reduced grain yield: study

Sub : Sci

Sec: Nanotech

Context :- One of the largest and most sustained trials analysing the impact of nano-urea on crop yields has concluded that its continued use could reduce yields of rice and wheat, which together constitute about 70% of India’s annual foodgrains output.

Importance of Urea in Indian Agriculture

Role in Agriculture: Urea is a crucial nitrogen fertilizer for India’s agricultural economy, supporting the production of key crops like rice and wheat.
Consumption and Import: India requires approximately 350 lakh tonnes of urea annually, with 40 lakh tonnes imported.
Subsidized Costs: Farmers buy a 45-kg urea bag at ₹242, while its actual cost is around ₹3,000, due to significant government subsidies.
Government Expenditure: In 2023-24, the government spent ₹1.3 lakh crore on urea subsidies, highlighting its central role in ensuring affordable fertilizers for farmers.

Nano-Urea

What is Nano-Urea?: Nano-urea is a technological innovation introduced by IFFCO, consisting of a 500 ml liquid solution with 4% nitrogen (20g N).
Claims by IFFCO: It is promoted as a substitute for 52 kg N/ha of conventional urea when sprayed on plant leaves during critical flowering stages, with no yield loss.
Application Method: Unlike conventional urea applied to the soil, nano-urea is sprayed on leaves, aiming to enhance nitrogen absorption by plants.
Cost and Purpose: A bottle of nano-urea costs ₹260, slightly higher than a 45-kg urea bag, and aims to reduce aggregate urea consumption and the fertilizer import bill.

Recent Findings on Nano-Urea

Protein and Yield Reduction: Studies by the Punjab Agricultural University revealed a 35% drop in rice protein content, 24% reduction in wheat protein content, and yield losses for both crops.
Impact on Root Development: Trials indicated a decline in root length, dry weight, and nutrient content, leading to limited nitrogen uptake by plants.
Soil Dependence: Plants primarily relied on soil nitrogen, as nano-urea failed to deliver adequate nitrogen absorption.
New Formulations: Alternative nano-urea versions with 8% N and 20% N also failed to increase yields in preliminary trials.