Science and research developments

The topics provide useful context on bio-economy challenges, space technology ethics, and geological risks to infrastructure, though they lack the direct policy or legislative weight required for a higher score.

Notes

Kerala's bio-economy potential is hindered by the decline of premier research institutions like the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI).
JNTBGRI, established in 1972, holds over 50,000 plant accessions and is known for the 'Jeevani' herbal formulation, a model of access and benefit-sharing.
Key challenges include erosion of policy support for basic research, politicisation of institutional leadership, ageing infrastructure, and failure to recruit new scientists.
The global bioeconomy is expanding in biotechnology, synthetic biology, and nutraceuticals, areas where Kerala has significant biodiversity and traditional knowledge assets.
The U.S. FCC has authorised 'Eärendil-1', a test satellite by Reflect Orbital, to reflect sunlight to Earth at night using a thin-film reflector.
Concerns regarding Eärendil-1 include light pollution and interference with optical astronomy, leading to conditions for coordination with NASA and the National Science Foundation.
Chinese geologists identified the active 'Paizhen Fault' under the Yarlung Tsangpo hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River, raising concerns about structural stability near the Indian border.

Questions

Discuss the significance of basic scientific research in fostering a sustainable bio-economy. How can institutional autonomy and merit-based leadership revitalize India's scientific research ecosystem? 150 words

Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min

0 / 150 words 8:00
The emergence of private space technologies, such as orbital light reflectors, presents both innovation opportunities and regulatory challenges for environmental and astronomical protection. Analyze the role of international and national regulatory frameworks in balancing technological advancement with the preservation of the night sky. 250 words

Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min

0 / 250 words 11:00
Examine the geopolitical and environmental implications of large-scale infrastructure projects in transboundary river basins, specifically in the context of seismic risks and regional water security. 150 words

Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min

0 / 150 words 8:00

Prelims

The 'Jeevani' herbal formulation, developed by the JNTBGRI, is primarily based on the traditional knowledge of which indigenous community?

The 'Paizhen Fault', recently identified as a risk to a major hydropower project, is located in the basin of which river?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-13/science-and-research-developments