2.1. Heatwaves and Wildfires Linked to Air Pollution

• The report emphasizes the interconnectedness of heatwaves and wildfires, with both phenomena exacerbating air pollution.
• Wildfires, triggered by heatwaves in regions like the United States and Europe, release a complex mix of chemicals into the atmosphere, adversely affecting air quality, human health, ecosystems, and crops.
• Additionally, wildfire smoke contributes to more carbon emissions, further exacerbating greenhouse gas levels.

2.2. Air Pollutants Emerge from Wildfires

Wildfires, along with desert dust, are responsible for the surge in air pollutants. Short-lived reactive gases such as nitrogen oxides and biogenic volatile organic compounds react to form ozone and particulate matter (PM), both of which pose significant health risks.

2.3. European Summer of 2022

• This period saw record-breaking heatwaves, which led to increased concentrations of PM and ground-level ozone.
• Air quality monitoring sites across Europe recorded ozone levels exceeding the World Health Organization's guideline level of 100 μg m–3 for an 8-hour exposure.
• This pattern initially emerged in southwest Europe, spreading to central Europe and eventually reaching the northeast as the heat wave traversed the continent.

2.4. Impact on Agriculture

• Elevated ozone levels have a global impact on agriculture, with ozone-induced crop losses averaging between 4.4% and 12.4% for staples.
• Key agricultural regions in India and China experienced even higher losses, with wheat and soybean crops suffering losses as high as 15% to 30%.

3. Heatwaves

• A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, typically accompanied by high humidity, which can have adverse effects on human health, the environment, and various sectors of society.
• Heatwaves are characterized by temperatures significantly higher than the usual seasonal average for a specific region.
• They often last for several days or even weeks, causing discomfort and posing health risks to individuals, especially vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

4. How Heatwaves Affect Ozone

4.1. Formation of Ground-Level Ozone 

• Heatwaves can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, also known as tropospheric ozone.
• Ground-level ozone is different from the protective ozone layer in the stratosphere, which shields us from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
• Ground-level ozone is formed when certain pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), react in the presence of sunlight and high temperatures.
• During heatwaves, these conditions are conducive to the production of ozone near the Earth's surface.

4.2. Increased Ozone Levels

• The combination of high temperatures, sunlight, and the presence of precursor pollutants leads to elevated ground-level ozone levels during heatwaves.
• Ozone is a key component of smog, and high concentrations of ozone can have detrimental effects on air quality and human health.

5. About Ozone Pollution

• Ozone pollution refers to the presence of elevated concentrations of ground-level ozone in the Earth's lower atmosphere, or troposphere.
• Ground-level ozone is a secondary pollutant formed through chemical reactions involving precursor pollutants, primarily NOx and VOCs, in the presence of sunlight.
• Unlike the protective ozone layer in the stratosphere, ground-level ozone is harmful to human health and the environment.

6. Effects of Ozone Pollution

Respiratory Issues: Ozone pollution can lead to a range of respiratory problems, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. It can irritate the respiratory system, causing coughing, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing.

Cardiovascular Effects: Ozone exposure has been linked to cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and irregular heart rhythms.

Reduced Lung Function: Long-term exposure to ozone pollution can lead to reduced lung function and may impair lung development in children.

Agricultural and Environmental Impact: Ozone pollution can harm vegetation and crops, leading to reduced agricultural yields. It can also damage forests and natural ecosystems.

Air Quality: High levels of ground-level ozone contribute to poor air quality, leading to smog formation. This can reduce visibility and have economic impacts on industries such as tourism.

Climate Change: Ground-level ozone is a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change when present in high concentrations. It can also harm the environment by damaging plant life and ecosystems.

7. Conclusion

• The report serves as a stark reminder that climate change and air quality are inextricably linked, demanding a collective effort to break this vicious cycle.
• Urgent action, including reducing emissions, monitoring air quality, and raising public awareness, is essential to safeguarding our health, ecosystems, and the well-being of future generations.
• The report reinforces the critical need for a holistic approach to address these interconnected challenges effectively.

 

Source: Down to Earth

NEW NPCI RULES

 

1. Context

Recently, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the retail payments and settlement body, clarified that there are no charges for bank account-to-bank account-based UPI payments, which are the “normal” UPI payments for most people.

2. New NPCI Rules

• NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) has introduced an interchange charge for prepaid payment instrument (PPI) merchant transactions, but customers will not be charged.
• Reports had suggested that a 1.1% interchange fee would apply to UPI transactions made through PPI instruments (wallets or cards) for transactions over Rs 2,000.
• NPCI clarified that this charge applies only to PPI merchant transactions and not to normal bank-to-bank UPI payments.
• PPI transactions involve online wallets (e.g., Paytm Wallet, Amazon Pay Wallet) and preloaded gift cards.
• The change is in line with recent regulatory guidelines allowing PPI wallets to be part of the interoperable UPI system.

3. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is an important financial institution in India that plays a pivotal role in the country's digital payments landscape. It was established in 2008 as a not-for-profit organization and is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. NPCI operates under the guidance and ownership of major Indian banks and financial institutions, including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Key functions and responsibilities of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) include:

• Payment Systems Management: NPCI oversees and manages various retail payment systems in India, facilitating electronic funds transfer, retail payments, and settlement processes. Some of the prominent payment systems it operates include the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT), and Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS).
• Digital Payments Innovation: NPCI is responsible for introducing and promoting innovative digital payment solutions in India. UPI, which allows for instant and secure peer-to-peer and peer-to-merchant transactions, is one of the most notable innovations developed and operated by NPCI.
• Interbank Transactions: NPCI ensures interoperability among various banks and financial institutions, enabling seamless fund transfers and transactions between different banks' systems. This promotes financial inclusion and ease of digital transactions for consumers and businesses.
• Retail Payments Infrastructure: The organization plays a crucial role in building and maintaining the infrastructure required for efficient retail payments and electronic fund transfers. This includes the development of payment interfaces, security protocols, and standards.
• Promotion of Financial Inclusion: NPCI actively promotes financial inclusion by enabling access to digital payment systems for individuals in remote and underserved areas of India. It also supports government initiatives to disburse benefits and subsidies directly to the beneficiaries' bank accounts.
• Security and Fraud Management: NPCI takes measures to enhance the security of electronic payment systems and implements fraud detection and prevention mechanisms to protect consumers and financial institutions from cyber threats and fraud.

4. What is UPI?

UPI, or Unified Payments Interface, is a real-time payment system and an instant interbank electronic funds transfer system in India. It enables individuals to make electronic payments and transfer funds between bank accounts using their mobile phones or computers. UPI was developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Here are some key features and aspects of UPI:

• Real-Time Transactions: UPI allows for instant and real-time transactions, enabling users to transfer money and make payments quickly, 24/7.
• Bank-to-Bank Transfers: With UPI, users can transfer money directly from one bank account to another without the need for intermediary steps. This promotes seamless and efficient fund transfers.
• Mobile Apps: UPI transactions are typically conducted through mobile apps provided by banks and third-party payment service providers. Users link their bank accounts to these apps to initiate and authorize payments.
• Virtual Payment Addresses (VPAs): Instead of sharing sensitive bank account details, UPI users can create a unique VPA, which acts as an alias for their bank account. This enhances security and privacy during transactions.
• QR Code Payments: UPI supports QR code-based payments, allowing users to scan QR codes at merchant outlets or websites to make payments instantly. This is commonly used for retail purchases.

5. Old UPI rules

Here are some key aspects of the UPI rules that were in place at that time:

• Transaction Limits: UPI transactions were subject to certain daily and per-transaction limits. For example, individual users typically had a daily transaction limit, and there were limits on the maximum amount that could be transferred in a single transaction.
• Authentication Methods: UPI transactions required authentication through methods such as Mobile Personal Identification Number (MPIN), UPI PIN, or biometric authentication, depending on the specific UPI app and the user's preferences.
• Transaction Charges: Many banks and UPI service providers did not charge customers for making UPI transactions. However, some charges might apply for specific services, such as transferring money from a UPI-linked bank account to another bank account. These charges varied between banks and service providers.
• Transaction Types: UPI supported various types of transactions, including person-to-person (P2P) transfers, person-to-merchant (P2M) payments, bill payments, and more. Users could also check their account balance and transaction history through UPI apps.
• Security Measures: UPI transactions were secured through encryption and multi-factor authentication to protect user data and financial information.
• UPI Apps: Numerous banks and third-party apps offered UPI services. Users could link their bank accounts to these apps and use them for making UPI transactions.

For Prelims: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Prepaid payment instrument (PPI), Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Virtual Payment Addresses (VPAs), Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT), and Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS). For Mains: 1. Discuss the role and significance of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in the context of India's payment ecosystem. How has NPCI contributed to the country's progress towards a less-cash economy? (250 words).

 

Previous year Question 1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017) 1. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) helps in promoting the financial inclusion in the country. 2. NPCI has launched RuPay, a card payment scheme Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: C   2. With reference to digital payments, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018) 1. BHIM app allows the user to transfer money to anyone with a UPI-enabled bank account. 2. While a chip-pin debit card has four factors of authentication, BHIM app has only two factors of authentication. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: A

Source: The Indian Express

HUMAN EMBRYO 

1. Context 

Scientists have achieved the remarkable feat of growing a "human embryo" in a lab setting without the need for eggs or sperm.

They accomplished this by utilizing stem cells, which possess the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, leading to the spontaneous assembly of an embryo-like structure that closely mimics the molecular characteristics of an early embryo.

2. 14-Day-Old Human Embryo

• Researchers have introduced what is being hailed as one of the most comprehensive models of a 14-day-old human embryo.
• Several teams worldwide have been striving to develop similar human embryo-like models, with approximately six such models published in the current year.
• While none of these models perfectly replicate the complex processes of early embryo development, they collectively contribute to advancing our understanding.
• The Israeli research team achieved this by combining stem cells with specific chemicals.
• A small portion of this mixture spontaneously assembled into various cell types critical for fetal development, including those composing the fetus, providing nutrients, orchestrating the body's development plan, and forming vital structures like the placenta and umbilical cord to support the fetus.
• However, the team encountered a challenge, as only 1% of the mixture spontaneously assembled, making the process relatively inefficient.

3. The Significance of Embryo Models and Research

• Scientists face ethical hurdles when attempting to research the early stages of embryo development post-implantation in the uterus.
• Currently, they study these initial changes using various laboratory models or donated embryos.
• This research is pivotal because the majority of miscarriages and birth defects occur during the initial days of embryo development.
• An in-depth study of these early stages offers insights into genetic and inherited diseases.
• Furthermore, understanding why some embryos develop normally, maintain the correct genetic code, and implant successfully, while others do not, may enhance the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Image Source: Mashable sea

4. Insights from Lab-Grown Embryo Models

• The early process is by developing alternative models that can be cultivated in the lab. While these models mimic several aspects of development, they are not surrogates for actual embryos.
• These embryo-like models offer a means to explore the genetic, epigenetic, and environmental influences on developing embryos.
• Scientists are gradually replicating the organization of cells observed in real embryos, bringing us closer to comprehending how genetic defects contribute to certain diseases and the potential application of genetic therapies for specific conditions.

5. Limitations and Ethical Boundaries

• It's essential to clarify that lab-grown embryo models are solely intended for studying the early stages of fetal development.
• These models are generally accepted and legally supported for destruction after 14 days of study, and any attempts at implantation are prohibited.
• Moreover, creating a lab-based model that precisely replicates the properties of early embryos remains a challenge, as it falls short of becoming an actual embryo capable of implanting in the uterine lining.

6. The 14-Day Rule in Embryo Research

• The 14-day limit on embryo research was initially proposed by a UK committee in 1979 following the birth of Louise Brown, the first test tube baby, which demonstrated that embryos could be sustained in laboratories.
• This 14-day period aligns with the natural conclusion of embryo implantation and marks the point when cells begin to develop individual characteristics, rendering twinning impossible.
• The ethical considerations surrounding embryo research change significantly as it progresses from a clump of cells to an individual, often correlated with the emergence of the Primitive Streak, a linear structure in the embryo that signifies its transition from radial symmetry (resembling an egg) to bilateral symmetry (characterized by left and right hands and legs).

7. Revealing Insights into Early Development

• Models like the one developed by the Israeli team have aided scientists in unravelling the mysteries of errors in DNA duplication and chromosome distribution during early development.
• While previous assumptions attributed these errors to cell separation, these models have revealed that issues arise much earlier, during ongoing DNA duplication.
• This deeper understanding allows scientists to investigate the roles of various genes in fetal development.
• The potential of this development is to manipulate genes and gain insights into their developmental roles in a controlled model system.
• This capability offers a unique avenue for testing the function of specific factors, which is challenging to achieve in natural embryos.

8. The Way Forward

• The recent strides in lab-grown human embryo models hold immense promise for advancing our understanding of early human development, genetic disorders, and potential treatments.
• These models serve as valuable tools in the pursuit of knowledge and advancements in reproductive medicine and genetics.

 

For Prelims: Genetics, Human embryo, in vitro fertilization, DNA, sperm For Mains:  1. What is the significance of growing a "human embryo" in a lab without using eggs or sperm? Explain the ethical considerations and limitations associated with lab-grown embryo models. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)  1. Genetic changes can be introduced in the cells that produce eggs or sperms of a prospective parent. 2. A person’s genome can be edited before birth at the early embryonic stage. 3. Human induced pluripotent stem cells can be injected into the embryo of a pig. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only          B. 2 and 3 only        C. 2 only           D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: D   2. Who among the following devised the technique IVF (In vitro Fertilization)?  (SSC CGL 2017)  A. Sir Frank Whittle        B. Robert Edwards       C. Edward Jenner        D. Dr. Martin Cooper   Answer: B   3. What does 'T' stand for in IVF-ET? (SSC JE ME 2019) A. Transit     B. Toxicity        C. Transfer          D. Terminal   Answer: C   4. Consider the following statements: DNA Barcoding can be a tool to: (UPSC 2022) 1. assess the age of a plant or animal. 2. distinguish among species that look alike. 3. identify undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only     B. 3 only        C. 1 and 2          D. 2 and 3   Answer: D

 

 Source: The Indian Express

ATLANTIFICATION

 

1. Context

Researchers have discovered the cause of the Arctic Ocean sea ice decrease since 2007. The results suggest that when an atmospheric phenomenon known as the Arctic dipole reverses itself in its periodic cycle, there will be more pronounced drops in sea ice.

2. What is Atlantification?

Atlantification refers to a process in which the characteristics of a body of water, typically a sea or an ocean, become more similar to those of the North Atlantic Ocean. This term is often used in the context of climate change and its impact on polar regions, particularly the Arctic Ocean.

The North Atlantic Ocean has certain distinct features, such as relatively warm temperatures, strong ocean currents, and a higher salt content compared to other oceanic regions. As global temperatures rise due to climate change, the Arctic region is experiencing rapid warming and significant changes in its environmental conditions.

Atlantification of the Arctic Ocean occurs as warmer water from the North Atlantic Ocean flows northward into the Arctic region. This warmer water can have several effects on the Arctic environment:

• Sea Ice Reduction: Warmer water can contribute to the melting of Arctic sea ice, leading to a decrease in the extent and thickness of the ice cover. This reduction in sea ice has numerous ecological and climatic consequences.
• Altered Ecosystems: As the Arctic Ocean warms, it can lead to shifts in marine ecosystems, impacting the distribution and behavior of various species of marine life, including fish, marine mammals, and seabirds.
• Changes in Ocean Circulation: The influx of warmer water can alter ocean circulation patterns in the Arctic, which can, in turn, affect global climate systems.
• Rising Sea Levels: The melting of Arctic ice contributes to rising sea levels globally, which can have significant consequences for coastal communities around the world.

Atlantification is just one aspect of the complex changes occurring in the Arctic due to climate change. It underscores the interconnected nature of Earth's climate systems and highlights the need for continued research and international cooperation to better understand and address these changes and their potential impacts.

3. Atlantic and its biodiversity

The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest ocean in the world and encompasses a vast and diverse range of ecosystems and biodiversity. It is home to a wide variety of marine species, and its ecosystems vary significantly from one region to another. Here are some key aspects of Atlantic Ocean biodiversity:

• Marine Species: The Atlantic Ocean hosts a rich diversity of marine species, including fish, mammals, invertebrates, and plants. Some iconic species found in the Atlantic include Atlantic cod, humpback whales, loggerhead sea turtles, and various species of sharks.
• Coral Reefs: The Atlantic Ocean is home to several coral reef systems, with the most famous being the Caribbean coral reefs. These reefs support a multitude of species and provide essential habitats for many marine organisms.
• Seabirds: The Atlantic Ocean serves as a critical habitat for numerous seabird species. These birds often breed on remote islands and coastal cliffs, using the ocean as their primary foraging area. Albatrosses, puffins, and gannets are some examples of Atlantic seabirds.
• Migratory Species: The Atlantic Ocean plays a crucial role in the life cycles of many migratory species. For instance, it serves as a migration route for various species of sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.
• Deep-Sea Biodiversity: The Atlantic Ocean's depths contain a mysterious and diverse range of life forms. Deep-sea ecosystems are characterized by unique adaptations to extreme pressure, cold temperatures, and limited light. Deep-sea creatures such as anglerfish, giant tube worms, and deep-sea corals are examples of the biodiversity found in these environments.
• Threats to Biodiversity: Like many marine ecosystems around the world, the Atlantic Ocean faces several threats to its biodiversity. Overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and ocean acidification are some of the major challenges that can harm marine life in the Atlantic.
• Conservation Efforts: Numerous conservation organizations and initiatives are working to protect and preserve the biodiversity of the Atlantic Ocean. Efforts include establishing marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and campaigns to reduce plastic pollution and combat climate change.
• International Cooperation: Given that the Atlantic Ocean borders numerous countries and spans a vast area, international cooperation is crucial for effectively managing and conserving its biodiversity. Various regional organizations and agreements exist to address common conservation goals and challenges.

Image Source: Web

Understanding and conserving the biodiversity of the Atlantic Ocean is essential not only for the health of the ocean itself but also for the well-being of human communities that depend on it for food, livelihoods, and recreational activities. Protecting this rich and diverse marine environment is a global priority.

4. All government missions in the Atlantic

Several governments and international organizations have been involved in various missions and initiatives related to the Atlantic Ocean. These missions and initiatives often focus on research, conservation, exploration, and sustainable management of the Atlantic Ocean's resources. Here are a few notable ones:

• Galway Statement on Atlantic Ocean Cooperation: The Galway Statement, signed in 2013 by the European Union, Canada, and the United States, initiated a framework for cooperation on Atlantic Ocean research and exploration. It aims to promote a better understanding and sustainable management of the Atlantic Ocean.
• EU Atlantic Strategy: The European Union (EU) has developed an Atlantic Strategy to promote economic growth, protect the environment, and enhance security in the Atlantic Ocean region. This strategy includes initiatives related to marine research, sustainable fisheries, and maritime spatial planning.
• Blue Belt Programme (UK): The United Kingdom has implemented the Blue Belt Programme, which aims to protect the marine environments of the UK Overseas Territories in the Atlantic, including the waters around Ascension Island, Saint Helena, Tristan da Cunha, and the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands.
• Atlantic Ocean Research Alliance (AORA): AORA is an initiative involving the European Union, Canada, and the United States to advance collaborative research efforts in the Atlantic Ocean. It supports various research projects related to oceanography, climate change, and marine ecosystems.
• Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans (POGO): POGO is an international organization that promotes international cooperation in oceanographic research. It has programs and initiatives related to the Atlantic Ocean, including research vessel collaborations and capacity-building efforts.

For Prelims: Atlantic Ocean, Atlantification, Coral Reefs, Galway Statement on Atlantic Ocean Cooperation, Blue Belt Programme, Atlantic Ocean Research Alliance (AORA), and Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans (POGO). For Mains: 1. Discuss the concept of Atlantification in the context of climate change. How does the influx of warm water from the North Atlantic impact the Arctic region, and what are the broader implications for global climate systems and ecosystems? (250 words).

 

Previous year Question 1. The Sargasso Sea is a vast patch of the Atlantic Ocean characterized by an abundance of floating brown seaweed called 'Sargassum'. This is formed due to the deposit of marine plants and refuse carried by the (UPSC CAPF 2014) 1. North Atlantic current 2. Canary current 3. North Atlantic Equatorial current Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: D   2. In the South Atlantic and South-Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the the reason? (UPSC 2015) A. Sea surface temperatures are low B. Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs C. Coriolis force is too weak D. Absence of land in those regions Answer: B

Source: The Print