XENOTRANSPLANTATION
1. Context
Recently, the first recipient of a modified pig kidney transplant, 62-year-old Richard "Rick" Slayman, passed away approximately two months after undergoing the surgery. Neither the family members of Mr. Slayman nor the Massachusetts General Hospital, where the procedure took place, attributed his death to the transplant operation.
2. About Xenotransplantation
- Xenotransplantation refers to any medical procedure involving the transplantation, implantation, or infusion of either live cells, tissues, or organs from a nonhuman animal source into a human recipient, or human body fluids, cells, tissues, or organs that have had ex vivo contact with live nonhuman animal cells, tissues, or organs, as defined by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Essentially, it entails utilizing animal cells and organs to treat human illnesses.
- The practice of xenotransplantation dates back to the 1980s when it was first attempted in humans, particularly involving heart transplants. This approach emerged due to the significant disparity between the number of patients in need of transplants and the limited availability of human donor organs.
- With nearly 90,000 individuals awaiting kidney transplants in the United States alone, and over 3,000 deaths occurring annually while on the waiting list, xenotransplantation offers a potential solution to alleviate the shortage of donor organs and save lives.
- Moreover, there's growing evidence, as highlighted by Columbia University’s Department of Surgery, suggesting the effectiveness of xenotransplantation in treating neurodegenerative disorders and diabetes using animal cells and tissues. This underscores its broader therapeutic potential beyond organ transplantation.
3. The Process of Xenotransplantation
Xenotransplantation involves several critical steps to ensure the procedure's success, as explained by experts in the field.
- Before transplantation, the selected animal organ undergoes genetic modifications to minimise the risk of rejection by the human body. This involves employing advanced gene editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 to make specific alterations to the organ's genome.
- In the case of Richard "Rick" Slayman's operation, physicians at Harvard Medical School reported making 69 genomic edits to the pig kidney. Using CRISPR-Cas9, they removed pig genes responsible for producing sugars that trigger immune responses in humans. Additionally, human genes were added to enhance the compatibility of the kidney with the human body.
- The actual transplantation process is similar to conventional organ transplants, where the animal organ, in this case, a pig kidney, is sewn into the recipient's body. Following surgery, standard immune-suppressing drugs are administered to prevent rejection.
- Continuous monitoring is crucial after the transplant to evaluate the recipient's immune response to the animal organ. This ongoing assessment helps healthcare professionals make any necessary adjustments to medications and ensure the long-term viability of the transplant.
4. Advantages of Using Pigs in Xenotransplantation
Pigs have emerged as a preferred source for xenotransplantation due to several key factors
- Pigs exhibit anatomical and physiological characteristics that closely resemble those of humans. This similarity enhances the compatibility and functionality of pig organs when transplanted into human recipients.
- Pigs are extensively bred on farms, providing a readily available and cost-effective source of organs for transplantation. Moreover, the widespread breeding of various pig breeds allows for matching the size of harvested organs with the specific requirements of individual human recipients.
- Pig heart valves have been successfully used in humans for over five decades, demonstrating the compatibility and adaptability of pig organs in transplantation procedures.
5. Challenges and Considerations
Despite the potential benefits of xenotransplantation, several challenges and considerations exist
- There is a concern regarding the potential transmission of infectious agents from pigs to humans during xenotransplantation. This includes both recognized and unrecognized infectious agents, posing a risk to recipients and their close contacts.
- Cross-species transmission of retroviruses from pigs to humans is another significant concern. These viruses may remain latent and manifest as diseases years after infection, highlighting the importance of thorough screening and monitoring protocols.
- To address these challenges, various strategies are being explored. For example, embedding the pig's thymus gland, responsible for educating the immune system, beneath the outer layer of the transplanted organ can help prevent immune responses. Additionally, stringent screening and monitoring protocols are essential to minimize the risk of infectious agent transmission and retrovirus infection.
6. Way Forward
Xenotransplantation offers promising solutions to address the organ shortage crisis and improve patient outcomes, its implementation must proceed with caution, guided by rigorous scientific standards, ethical principles, and ongoing collaboration across various sectors. Through concerted efforts and continued innovation, xenotransplantation has the potential to revolutionize healthcare and save countless lives in the years to come.
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For Prelims: Xenotransplantation, Gene editing, CRISPR-Cas9
For Mains:
1. Developing xenotransplantation requires robust policy frameworks to ensure its safe and ethical application. Explain the importance of policy and regulation in governing the use of xenotransplantation. What are some key considerations for policymakers in this area? (250 words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. What is the Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news? (UPSC 2019) A. A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing
B. A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients
C. A gene that makes plants pest-resistant
D. A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops
Answer: A |
Source: The Indian Express
AURORA LIGHT IN INDIA
1. Context
Recently, the pristine skies of Ladakh dazzled with aurora lights in striking red hues. Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru (IIA), captured this celestial phenomenon through all-sky cameras strategically positioned around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle, Ladakh.
2. Observations at the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO)
- The Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), is equipped with specialized cameras capable of continuously imaging the night sky. These cameras recorded persistent space activity from midnight until the twilight hours of Saturday, with the peak activity observed at 2 am on Saturday.
- Aurora lights, also known as auroras, are typically observed in high-latitude regions relative to the equator, specifically near the North and South Poles. When witnessed near the North Pole, they are referred to as Aurora Borealis, while those near the South Pole are termed Aurora Australis.
- The unusual sighting of auroras in regions like Ladakh prompts curiosity as to why they extend to lower latitudes. This phenomenon arises due to a combination of factors, including solar activity, Earth's magnetic field, and atmospheric conditions. During periods of heightened solar activity, charged particles from the sun interact with Earth's magnetosphere, leading to the mesmerizing display of auroras.
3. About Auroras
Auroras, also known as northern and southern lights (Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis respectively), are mesmerizing displays of bright and colourful lights visible in the Earth's polar regions. These phenomena are created by the dynamic interaction between charged solar winds and the Earth's magnetosphere.
- Solar winds consist of charged particles, primarily protons and electrons, ejected from the Sun's atmosphere. On the other hand, the magnetosphere is the region surrounding the Earth where the Earth's magnetic field dominates over the magnetic field of interplanetary space. This protective shield deflects the majority of solar winds away from the Earth, particularly near the equator, but is strongest at the poles.
- Occasionally, solar wind particles penetrate the Earth's magnetosphere and travel along its magnetic field lines towards the polar regions. When these charged particles collide with atoms and molecules in the Earth's upper atmosphere, they transfer energy, causing the atoms and molecules to emit light. This phenomenon is akin to how electrons generate different colours in light bulbs.
4. Auroras Visible from Ladakh
- The visibility of auroras from Ladakh can be attributed to heightened solar flare activity in space, particularly due to the occurrence of several strong solar storms between Friday and Saturday. Solar physicists from the Centre of Excellence in Space Science India, situated at the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata, provided insights into these phenomena.
- The solar storms originated from Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), which are massive ejections of magnetic particles and plasma from the Sun's corona, its outermost atmosphere. These CMEs emanated from AR13664, an active region on the Sun, starting on May 8.
- Traveling at a velocity of 700 km/second, the Earth-bound CMEs reached their closest point to the Earth's atmosphere on May 10 and 11, disrupting the otherwise tranquil space weather. Solar flares associated with these storms were recorded at a speed of 815 km/second upon impact with the Earth. The intensity of these solar storms exceeded the average, as noted by Indian solar physicists.
- One of the notable manifestations of these solar storms' interactions with the Earth's atmosphere was the emergence of auroras in vibrant red, violet, and blue colors. The strength of the storms was such that aurora lights became visible from numerous lower-latitude regions, including Ladakh. Additionally, auroras were observed in parts of the United States and the United Kingdom.
- Scientists drew parallels between the intensity of these recent solar storms and a similar event that affected the Earth in November 2003. This historical precedent underscores the significance of monitoring and understanding solar activity to anticipate and mitigate its potential impacts on Earth's atmosphere and technological systems.
5. Solar Activity and Space Weather Forecast
- The Sun is currently experiencing heightened magnetic activity, with several magnetically active regions observable on its visible solar disk. These regions are generating multiple high-energy flares, contributing to increased solar activity.
- A series of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) have been forecasted to travel towards Earth until May 12. These CMEs, large ejections of magnetic particles and plasma from the Sun's corona, hold the potential to impact Earth's space weather significantly.
- The continuous occurrence of these solar storms poses a strong potential for disrupting space weather and inducing major disturbances in the Earth's magnetosphere. These disturbances are expected to persist for the next two days, with implications for various technological systems and satellite operations reliant on stable space weather conditions.
6. Hazards of Solar Storms
Intense solar storms pose significant hazards, particularly to satellites operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which typically ranges between 200-1,600 km in altitude.
- Satellites operating in LEO serve various critical functions, including navigation, military operations, intelligence gathering, and communications. These satellites rely on stable space conditions to function effectively. However, intense solar storms can interfere with satellite operations by disrupting communication signals and damaging onboard electronics.
- Earth's satellite-based systems, such as GPS and navigation systems, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of solar storms. Disruptions caused by solar storms can lead to inaccuracies in navigation data, affecting a wide range of activities reliant on precise positioning information.
- The highly energetic particle environment generated by solar storms can induce heating in the upper atmosphere, increasing the risk of radiation hazards. This radiation can pose health risks to astronauts and airline passengers, as well as impact sensitive electronics onboard aircraft and spacecraft.
- Furthermore, solar storms can lead to increased atmospheric drag on satellites positioned in LEO. Excessive drag can result in satellites experiencing intolerable levels of friction, potentially causing them to ignite and burn down. In extreme cases, this can lead to the complete cessation of satellite operations.
7. Way Forward
As we navigate the complex dynamics of solar storms and their impacts on Earth and space-based systems, proactive measures and collaborative efforts are essential to ensure resilience and preparedness. By investing in advanced monitoring capabilities, enhancing satellite resilience, fostering international cooperation, raising public awareness, and driving innovation, we can effectively address the challenges posed by solar activity and mitigate its potential impacts on our technological infrastructure and society as a whole.
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For Prelims: Low Earth Orbit, Solar Storms, aurora lights, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Indian Astronomical Observatory
For Mains:
1. Solar storms pose significant hazards to satellites and Earth's technological infrastructure. Explain the potential risks associated with intense solar storms, particularly to satellites operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Discuss the measures that can be taken to mitigate these risks and enhance space weather resilience. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. A low earth orbit satellite can provide large signal strength at an earth station because: (ESE Electronics 2011)
A. Path loss is low
B. These orbits are immune to noise
C. Large solar power can be generated at these orbits
D. Lower microwave frequencies in s-band can be used
2. If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth ? (UPSC 2022)
1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, 4 and 5 only B. 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only C. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
3. The aurora (‘northern lights’ or ‘southern lights’) are caused indirectly by: (NVS TGT 2019)
A. human-made electromagnetic fields
B. the motions of the planets around the Sun
C. the geomagnetic wind
D. solar flares
Answers: 1-A, 2-C, 3-D
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Source: The Indian Express
UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES (PREVENTION) ACT (UAPA)
1. Context
The Union Home Ministry extended the ban on the LTTE by five more years for fostering a separatist tendency among the masses and enhancing the support base for it in the country, particularly in Tamil Nadu, besides threatening the territorial integrity of India
2. About Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is an Indian law that was enacted in 1967 to effectively prevent unlawful activities that pose a threat to the sovereignty and integrity of India.
Key highlights of the UAPA
- Objective: The primary objective of the UAPA is to provide law enforcement agencies with effective tools to combat terrorism and other activities that threaten the security of the nation.
- Definition of Unlawful Activities: The act defines unlawful activities to include actions that intend to or support the cession of a part of the territory of India or disrupt the sovereignty and integrity of the country.
- Powers of Designation: The government has the authority to designate an organization as a terrorist organization if it believes that such an organization is involved in terrorism. This designation has significant legal consequences, including the freezing of assets.
- Powers of Arrest and Detention: The UAPA provides law enforcement agencies with powers of arrest and detention to prevent individuals from engaging in unlawful activities. The act allows for preventive detention to curb potential threats before they materialise.
- Banning of Terrorist Organizations: The government can proscribe organizations as terrorist organizations, making their activities illegal. This includes banning these organisations, freezing their assets, and taking other measures to curb their operations.
- Admissibility of Confessions: The UAPA allows for confessions made to police officers to be admissible in court, subject to certain safeguards. This provision has been a point of contention, with concerns about potential misuse and coercion.
- Designation of Individuals as Terrorists: In addition to organizations, the UAPA allows the government to designate individuals as terrorists. This designation carries legal consequences, including restrictions on travel and freezing of assets.
- Amendments and Stringency: Over the years, the UAPA has undergone several amendments to strengthen its provisions and make it more effective in dealing with emerging threats. However, these amendments have also been criticized for potential violations of civil liberties.
- International Cooperation: The UAPA allows for cooperation with foreign countries in matters related to the prevention of unlawful activities. This includes extradition of individuals involved in such activities.
3. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Human Rights
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and human rights lie in the impact the act can have on various fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India and international human rights standards.
The key points connecting the UAPA and human rights:
- The UAPA allows for preventive detention, which means individuals can be detained without formal charges based on suspicions of involvement in unlawful activities. This raises concerns about the right to liberty, as individuals may be deprived of their freedom without the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
- The admissibility of confessions made to police officers under the UAPA raises issues related to the right against self-incrimination. There is a risk that such confessions might be obtained under duress or coercion, compromising the fairness of legal proceedings.
- Designating individuals as terrorists and proscribing organizations without due process may impinge on the right to a fair trial. This includes the right to be informed of charges, the right to legal representation, and the right to present a defense.
- The UAPA provides authorities with the power to proscribe organizations as terrorist organizations, limiting their activities. Critics argue that this may infringe upon the right to freedom of association, particularly when such designations are made without sufficient evidence or proper legal procedures.
- The potential for misuse of the UAPA to target individuals or organizations critical of the government raises concerns about freedom of expression. If the act is used to suppress dissent or stifle legitimate political or social activities, it can undermine this fundamental right.
- The UAPA grants authorities the power to intercept communications and conduct surveillance on individuals suspected of engaging in unlawful activities. This raises concerns about the right to privacy, as individuals may be subjected to intrusive surveillance without adequate safeguards.
- Human rights standards require that any restrictions on rights, such as those imposed by the UAPA, must be proportionate and necessary for achieving a legitimate aim. Critics argue that the broad scope of the UAPA may lead to disproportionate measures that unduly restrict individual rights.
- The UAPA's compatibility with international human rights standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), is a critical point of consideration. Ensuring that the act aligns with these standards is essential to upholding human rights principles.
4. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Article 22 of the Constitution
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Article 22 of the Indian Constitution lie in how the UAPA's provisions for arrest and detention intersect with the constitutional safeguards provided under Article 22.
- Article 22 provides certain protections to individuals who are arrested or detained. It outlines the rights of arrested individuals, emphasizing safeguards to prevent arbitrary or unlawful detention.
- Article 22(1) states that every person who is arrested and detained shall be informed, as soon as may be, of the grounds for such arrest. This provision ensures that individuals are aware of the reasons behind their arrest, preventing arbitrary or secret detentions.
- Article 22(1) also guarantees the right of an arrested person to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of their choice. This ensures that individuals have access to legal assistance during the legal process, contributing to a fair and just legal system.
- The UAPA includes provisions for preventive detention, allowing authorities to detain individuals to prevent them from committing certain offences. However, Article 22(4) allows preventive detention only under specific circumstances, and certain safeguards must be followed, such as providing the detenu with the grounds for detention and an opportunity to make a representation against the detention.
- Article 22(4) further mandates that a person detained under a law providing for preventive detention must be afforded the earliest opportunity to make a representation against the detention. Additionally, the case of every person detained is required to be placed before an advisory board within three months.
- The UAPA allows for confessions made to police officers to be admissible in court, subject to certain safeguards. However, this provision has been a point of concern concerning Article 22, as confessions obtained under duress or coercion may violate the right against self-incrimination.
- Article 22(2) ensures the right to be brought before the nearest magistrate within 24 hours of arrest, excluding the time necessary for the journey. This provision aims to prevent prolonged detention without judicial oversight and contributes to the right to a speedy trial.
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For Prelims: Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Article 22, Terrorism
For Mains:
1. Discuss the key provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and analyze how they may impact fundamental human rights. Elaborate on the balance between national security concerns and the protection of individual rights. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Under Article 22 of the Constitution of India, with the exception of certain provisions stated there in, what is the maximum period for detention of a person under preventive detention? (MPSC 2014) A. 2 months B. 3 months C. 4 months D. 6 months
2. Article 22 of the Constitution ensures (CTET 2016) A. Right not to be ill-treated during arrest or while in custody B. Right to Constitutional Remedies C. Right against Exploitation D. Right to Education Answers: 1-B, 2-A Mains 1. Indian government has recently strengthed the anti-terrorism laws by amending the Unlawful Activities(Prevention) Act, (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA Act. Analyze the changes in the context of prevailing security environment while discussing scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by human rights organizations. (UPSC 2019) |
Source: The Indian Express
ADITYA-L1
1. Context
While most of India did not get to see the Aurora lights visible in many parts of the world recently, the solar flares that caused it were seen by Indian ground stations, the spacecraft Aditya-L1 studying the Sun from a point 1.5 million km away, and the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter circling the moon
2. About Aditya-L1
- Aditya-L1's core objective revolves around positioning a spacecraft in the 'L1' spot in space, marking India's inaugural dedicated solar mission.
- This mission follows ISRO's successful AstroSat (2015), making it the agency's second astronomy observatory-class endeavour.
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Image Source: ISRO
3. A Paradigm Shift in Solar Observations
- India's prior solar observations relied on ground-based telescopes and data from international solar missions.
- With ageing ground-based telescopes, India lacked a modern observational facility.
- Aditya-L1 seeks to address this gap and provide comprehensive solar data, advancing solar physics research.
4. Space weather alerts
- Astronomy-based space missions are gaining prominence due to their potential to inspire youth and contribute to scientific advancements.
- These missions, although time-consuming in development, play a crucial role in expanding our understanding of celestial phenomena.
- Solar flares, Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), and solar winds can disrupt space weather and impact satellite-dependent operations, such as telecommunications and power grids.
- Aditya-L1's role in studying the Sun is pivotal in enhancing our ability to predict and manage space weather disruptions.
- While AstroSat remains operational after eight years, Aditya-L1 presents a promising path for future Indian astronomy missions.
- With seven payloads, including instruments dedicated to solar observation, Aditya-L1 aims to advance our understanding of solar eruptions and flares.
- Solar physics now demands multiwavelength astronomy to comprehensively study solar events.
- Coordinating data from various instruments on Aditya-L1 is crucial to unravelling the complexities of solar phenomena.
- Aditya-L1 seeks to provide user-friendly information for safeguarding satellite-dependent operations.
- It may generate space weather alerts based on data obtained, enhancing our preparedness for space weather disturbances.
5. The Significance of L1
- Aditya-L1 embarks on a journey of nearly 100 days to reach L1, a location between the Earth and the Sun.
- This journey is shorter than Mangalyaan's voyage to Mars in 2014.
- After departing Earth's gravity, Aditya-L1 will enter a heliocentric path before reaching the L1 orbit.
- Six of Aditya-L1's payloads will remain inactive until approximately January 6, 2024, when the spacecraft is expected to enter a 'halo' orbit near L1.
- The activation of these payloads will enable the calibration of instruments before the commencement of scientific data collection.
- The L1 point in space, where Aditya-L1 will position itself, is one of the five Lagrange Points existing between any two celestial bodies in space.
- Being at L1 allows the spacecraft to make continuous observations with minimal energy expenditure.
- L1 is favoured for its unobstructed view of the Sun, making it ideal for solar research.
12. The Way Forward
- The Aditya-L1 mission represents a significant step in India's space exploration journey, offering the nation a unique opportunity to study the Sun comprehensively and contribute to space weather predictions.
- Positioned at the L1 point, this mission holds great promise for advancing our understanding of the Sun and its impact on Earth's space environment.
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For Prelims: ISRO, Aditya L1, AstroSat, Coronal Mass Ejections, 'halo' orbit,
For Mains:
1. Describe the significance of the Aditya-L1 mission in the context of India's space exploration efforts. Explain how it differs from India's previous solar experiments. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to India's satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018)
1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
3. GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors, and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 2
D. 3 only
Answer: A
2. ISRO is related to: (SSC JE EE 2020)
A. space research B. agricultural research C. seed research D. marine research
Answer: A
3. Aditya L1 is a ______. (ISRO IPRC Technical Assistant Mechanical 2016)
A. Long-range missile
B. Rocket to moon
C. Spacecraft project
D. Light combat aircraft
Answer: C
4. With reference to 'Astrosat', the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)
1. Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.
2. Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
5. If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth? (UPSC 2022)
1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
B. 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
C. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
CHABAHAR PORT
1.Context
A day after India and Iran signed a 10-year contract to operate the strategic Iranian port of Chabahar, US State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel has said that any entity considering business deals with Iran need to be aware of the potential risk of sanctions
2.Why is Chabahar back in the news?
- Ahead of the visit to Iran, where Mr Sonowal met with senior Ministers as well as officials connected to the Shahid Beheshti terminal project development.
- An official statement said that the visit would be a chance to "Strengthen ties and the maritime relationship" between the two countries.
- Due to the pandemic, there were fewer visits from India to Iran and vice-versa.
- This visit will also highlight the importance of Chabahar as a gateway for Indian Trade with Europe, Russia and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) Countries.
- Mr Sonowal reviewed the progress in the work on the terminal and handed over six mobile harbour cranes to improve efficiency and invigorate the potential of chabahar in the loading and unloading operations at the port.
Image source: The Iran Primer
3.India's strategic vision
The first agreement for Chabahar was signed by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003, the plan had a three-fold objective.
- To build India's first offshore port and to project Indian infrastructure prowess in the Gulf,
- To circumvent trade through Pakistan, given the tense ties with India's neighbour and build a long-term, sustainable sea trade route and
- To find an alternative land route to Afghanistan, which India had rebuilt ties with after the defeat of the Taliban in 2001.
| Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government constructed the Zaranj-Delaram Highway in Afghanistan's South, which would help connect the trade route from the border of Iran to the main trade routes to Heart and Kabul, handing it over to the Karzai government in 2009. |
4.Trilateral Agreement
- In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled to Tehran and signed the agreement to develop Chabahar port, as well as the trilateral agreement for trade through Chabahar with Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani.
- Since the India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ) authority took over the operations of the port in 2018.
- It has handled 215 vessels, 16, 000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and four million tons of bulk and general cargo, the government said in Parliament last month.
5.Chabahar Route
- In the last few years, a fourth strategic objective for the Chabahar route has appeared, with China's Belt and Road Initiative making inroads in the region.
- The government hopes to provide Central Asia with an alternate route to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) through Iran for Future Trade.
| Mr Sonowal in his Speech at the Chabahar Day function said that it is India's vision to make the Shahid Beheshti port a transit hub and link it to the International North-South Trade Corridor (INSTC) that also connects to Russia and Europe. |
6.Reasons for the delay
- Since the beginning, the development of the Shahid Beheshti terminal in Chabahar, as well as surrounding infrastructure, has hit geopolitical roadblock after roadblock.
- The biggest issue has been over Iran's relationship with western countries, especially the United States.
- In years when Western sanctions against Iran increased and the Chabahar project has been put on the back-burner, while in the years when nuclear talks that resulted in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2015 came into being, the Chabahar port has been easier to work on.
- In 2018, the U.S. Trump administration put paid to India's plans by walking out of the JCPOA and slapping new sanctions on dealing with Iran.
- This led to the Modi Government "Zeroing out" all its oil imports from Iran, earlier a major supplier to India, causing a strain in ties.
- Even though the U.S. made a special "carve-out" on sanctions for Chabahar.
- On the ground, has been difficult to source equipment for the port construction from infrastructure companies that continue to fear secondary sanctions, as well as to engage in shipping and insurance companies for trade through Chabahar.
7.Ties with Taliban
- The Modi Government also snapped ties with Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover in August 2021, which put an end to the Humanitarian aid of wheat and pulses that were being sent to Kabul via Chabahar.
- When India restarted Wheat aid to Afghanistan this year, it negotiated with Pakistan to use the land route instead.
- With the government now reopening the Indian Embassy in Kabul and Establishing ties with the Taliban government.
- The Chabahar route may once again be employed, another reason for the recent flurry of activity at the Iranian port the terminal that India has pinned so many hopes on.
Source: Hindu
