What is Hubble Tension?

 Scientists from Germany and the U.K. have proposed a radical explanation for the discrepancy in measurements of the universe’s expansion rate, known as the Hubble tension.  The Hubble Constant, denoted as H0, is a fundamental parameter in cosmology that describes the current expansion rate of the Universe. It is named after the renowned astronomer Edwin Hubble, who first observed the relationship between a galaxy’s distance and its apparent velocity. The Hubble Constant is expressed in units of kilometers per second per megaparsec (km/s/Mpc), which represents the speed at which galaxies move away from each other over a given distance.

The Emergence of Hubble Tension

The Hubble Tension arises from the fact that different methods of measuring the Hubble Constant have yielded inconsistent results. This implies that two equally valid ways to measure how fast the universe is expanding have yielded two different estimates. The two primary approaches used to determine H0 are:

• The Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) method: This approach relies on observations of the oldest light in the Universe, the CMB radiation, and uses the standard cosmological model to infer the value of H0.
• The cosmic distance ladder method: This technique involves measuring distances to nearby galaxies using various astronomical objects, such as Cepheid variable stars and Type Ia supernovae, and then using these distances to calculate H0.

The problem lies in the fact that these two methods have produced significantly different values for the Hubble Constant, with the CMB method yielding a value of around 67 km/s/Mpc, while the cosmic distance ladder method suggests a higher value of approximately 74 km/s/Mpc.

Implications and Possible Explanations

The discrepancy between the two measurements of the Hubble Constant has far-reaching implications for our understanding of the Universe. If the tension persists, it could indicate that our current cosmological models are incomplete or that there are unknown physical phenomena at play. Some possible explanations for the Hubble Tension include:

• Systematic errors: There might be unaccounted-for systematic errors in one or both of the measurement methods, leading to the discrepancy.
• New physics: The Hubble Tension could hint at the existence of new physical processes or particles that are not accounted for in the standard cosmological model, such as dark energy or neutrinos with unexpected properties.
• Modified gravity: Some scientists propose that the tension could be resolved by modifying Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which underpins our understanding of gravity and the Universe’s expansion.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Prospects

Resolving the Hubble Tension is a top priority for cosmologists worldwide. Numerous research teams are working on refining the measurement techniques, searching for potential sources of error, and exploring alternative theoretical models. Modern astronomical facilities, such as the James Webb Space Telescope and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, are expected to provide more precise data that could help shed light on this cosmic puzzle.

Recent Studies and Current Status

A study published in Monthly Notices of The Royal Astronomical Society (MNRAS), where scientists suggest that the current model used to understand the Universe, called Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM), might be wrong and could be the reason behind the Hubble Tension. However, this is presented as a radical explanation and not a definitive solution.

Space Debris Threat to Earth’s Defenses

 

As the number of satellites in Earth’s orbit continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, experts are raising concerns about the potential impact of space debris on the planet’s magnetic field and atmosphere.

The Growing Problem of Space Debris

• Current estimates suggest that there are nearly 10,000 active satellites in orbit, with companies working to deploy tens of thousands more in the coming decades.
• Jonathan McDowell from the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics projects that the number of satellites could reach 100,000 within the next 10 to 15 years.
• The rapid increase in satellite launches is resulting in a significant amount of space debris, including defunct rockets and satellites that are no longer operational.

Potential Impact on Earth’s Magnetic Field and Ionosphere

• The influx of metallic debris from defunct rockets and satellites could disrupt the ionosphere and magnetosphere, which are essential systems that protect Earth’s atmosphere and sustain life on the planet.
• The ionosphere, located roughly 48 to 965 kilometers above the Earth’s surface, is a region where atoms and molecules become ionized by solar radiation, creating a layer of charged particles that reflects radio waves and enables long-distance communication.
• The ionosphere also helps protect life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation from the Sun.
• The magnetosphere is a plasma cocoon that surrounds the Earth, interacting with the solar wind and cosmic radiation to create a shield against harmful particles and radiation from space.

The Scale of the Problem

• Current estimates suggest that the amount of metallic ash being dumped into the ionosphere annually is equivalent to multiple Eiffel Towers’ worth of debris.
• Unlike meteorites, which are small and contain only trace amounts of aluminum, the wrecked spacecraft are large and consist entirely of aluminum and other highly conductive materials.
• The accumulation of conductive materials in the magnetosphere could potentially trap or deflect parts of the Earth’s magnetic field, leading to regional perturbations and holes above the ozone layer.

Lack of Comprehensive Studies

• Despite the potential risks posed by space pollution, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on its impact on the magnetosphere and ionosphere.
• Plasma physicist Sierra Solter, who has been studying the issue, emphasizes the need for more research to understand the potential consequences of satellite debris on Earth’s plasma environment.

The rapid expansion of satellite constellations, driven by companies competing for dominance in the satellite internet market, is leading to an alarming accumulation of metallic debris that could disrupt the delicate balance of the magnetosphere and ionosphere, which play crucial roles in protecting life on Earth.

22 New Products Added to Geographical Indication (GI) Registry

 In March 2024, the Geographical Indication (GI) registry of India added 22 new products from the states of Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, and Meghalaya. These products are now protected under the GI tag, which recognizes their unique qualities and geographical origin.

Assam

The state of Assam saw the inclusion of 12 products in the GI registry:

1. Asharikandi terracotta craft
2. Pani Meteka craft
3. Sarthebari metal craft
4. Jaapi (bamboo headgear)
5. Mishing handloom products
6. Bihu dhol
7. Bodo Dokhona (traditional attire of Bodo women)
8. Bodo Gamsa (traditional dress of Bodo men)
9. Bodo Eri silk
10. Bodo Jwmgra (a traditional scarf)
11. Bodo Thorkha (a musical instrument)
12. Bodo Sifung (a long flute)

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh had five products added to the GI registry:

1. Banaras Thandai, a drink made by blending milk with a mix of nuts, seeds and spices
2. Banaras Tabla
3. Banaras Shehnai
4. Banaras Lal Bharwamirch
5. Banaras Lal Peda

Tripura

Two products from Tripura were granted GI tags:

1. Pachra-Rignai (traditional dress worn on special occasions)
2. Matabari Peda (a sweet preparation)

Meghalaya

Three products from Meghalaya were added to the GI registry:

1. Meghalaya Garo Textile weaving
2. Meghalaya Lyrnai Pottery
3. Meghalaya Chubitchi (alcoholic beverage)

About GI Registry

The Geographical Indication (GI) registry is a system that recognizes and protects products with unique characteristics, qualities, or reputation associated with their geographical origin. Established under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, the GI registry grants legal protection to products, preventing unauthorized use of the registered name. The GI tag helps preserve cultural heritage, promote economic development, and assure consumers of the product’s authenticity and quality.

Katchatheevu Island Issue

 Katchatheevu is an uninhabited island located in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka. The island has been a subject of controversy and dispute between the two countries for several decades. It is currently under the control of Sri Lanka.

History

Katchatheevu was historically under the control of the Kings of Ramanathapuram in modern Tamil Nadu. During the British colonial era, the island was administered by both India and Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon). After India’s independence in 1947, Sri Lanka claimed the island due to its strategic location, and the issue was discussed several times before 1974.

Transfer to Sri Lanka

In 1974, amid international pressure following India’s nuclear tests and the need to garner support from neighbours, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi signed an agreement with Sri Lanka, ceding Katchatheevu to the island nation without any discussion with the Indian people or parliament. This move was seen as an effort to secure Sri Lanka’s support, as the country was set to host the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in 1976 and was likely to have a representative as the president of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Controversies and Issues

The transfer of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka has created several problems for Indian fishermen.

The 1974 agreement secured the rights of Indian fishermen to dry their nets and use the island’s church for religious observances.

However, the 1976 delimitation of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), as required by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), superseded the 1974 agreement, effectively revoking Indian fishermen’s rights to engage in these activities on the island.

In India, the cessation of Katchatheevu is claimed to be illegal, as it was not ratified by the Indian Parliament. The Supreme Court of India ruled in the Berubari Union case (1960) that the cessation of Indian territory to another country must be ratified by the parliament through a constitutional amendment act. Therefore, the transfer of Katchatheevu is considered unconstitutional and illegal by some in India.

Sri Lanka’s Stance

Over the years, Sri Lanka has asserted its claims over Katchatheevu, denying the rights of Indian fishermen on the island. The Sri Lankan government maintains that the Indian court cannot nullify the 1974 agreement and claims that they gave an island called “Wedgebank” to India in exchange. Some Sri Lankan politicians have made insensitive statements, suggesting that it is easier to shoot Indian fishermen than to arrest them.

Recent Developments

In March 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Congress party for its alleged negligence in ceding Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka. His remarks came in response to an RTI query by Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai, which revealed that the Indira Gandhi-led government had handed over the island to Sri Lanka in 1974. Modi accused the Congress of weakening India’s unity through this action.

The Way Forward

The controversy surrounding Katchatheevu is a genuine concern for Indian Tamils. A discussion-based solution that clarifies the issues and seeks consensus must be adopted to avoid further problems in the future. Diplomatic efforts and dialogue between India and Sri Lanka are essential to resolve the long-standing dispute and ensure the rights and well-being of the affected communities on both sides.

Good Friday Observance and Significance

 Good Friday is a solemn Christian holiday observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at the hands of the Romans. Good Friday is part of the Holy Week, which includes Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter Sunday.

Significance

Good Friday marks the day when Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross, which is central to the Christian belief in his sacrifice and resurrection. Christians believe that Jesus died to atone for the sins of humanity and that his resurrection on Easter Sunday symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the promise of eternal life for those who believe in him.

Observances

Good Friday is observed through various traditions across different regions and denominations. Some common practices include:

• Church services: Many churches hold special services on Good Friday, often featuring the reading of the Passion narrative, prayers, and hymns.
• Fasting: Some Christians observe a partial or full fast on Good Friday as a form of penance and reflection.
• Processions: In some places, especially in Latin America and the Philippines, reenactments of the crucifixion or processions featuring statues of Jesus and the cross are held.
• Veneration of the cross: Some churches practice the veneration of the cross, where the faithful kiss or touch a cross as a sign of respect and devotion.

Etymology

The term “Good Friday” seems contradictory given the event it commemorates. There are several theories regarding the origin of the name:

• “Good” may be derived from an older meaning, designating the day as a holy or sacred one.
• It may be a corruption of “God’s Friday,” similar to the German “Gottes Freitag.”
• Some suggest that it is called “Good” because of the good that came out of Jesus’ sacrifice, namely the redemption of humanity.

Date

The date of Good Friday varies each year as it is determined by the date of Easter. In the Western Christian tradition, Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox. This means that Good Friday can fall between March 20 and April 23.

PM-SURAJ Portal

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the ‘Pradhan Mantri Samajik Utthan and Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan’ (PM-SURAJ) national portal during an event organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
The launch ceremony showcased the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of underprivileged communities and extending credit support to one lakh entrepreneurs from disadvantaged sections.

Interacting with Beneficiaries

During the event, PM Modi personally interacted with beneficiaries from various states who have availed themselves of schemes like NAMASTE, VCF-SC, VCF-BC, and ASIIM. These schemes cater to individuals from Scheduled Castes, backward classes, and Safai Mitras, providing them with essential support for economic upliftment. The interaction highlighted the government’s dedication to placing the underprivileged at the forefront of development initiatives.

Distribution of Ayushman Health Cards and PPE Kits

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment distributed Ayushman health cards and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits to sewer and septic tank workers (Safai Mitras) under the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) program. The Ayushman health card, issued under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), grants beneficiaries access to cashless healthcare services at empanelled hospitals. The PPE kits ensure the safety of frontline workers, providing them with necessary protection against health hazards and infections.

PM Modi’s Address

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of reaching out to marginalized communities and ensuring their inclusion in the nation’s development process. He stressed the significance of initiatives like PM-SURAJ in providing financial assistance directly to beneficiaries, eliminating middlemen and commissions.

Empowering Marginalized Communities

PM Modi spoke about various initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized sectors, such as doubling assistance to the SC, ST, and OBC communities, increasing scholarships for youth, and promoting entrepreneurship through schemes like Mudra Yojna and Standup India Scheme. He mentioned that the government has spent nearly Rs. 1.60 lakh crore for the welfare of the SC community this year alone.

Focus on Education and Entrepreneurship

The Prime Minister underscored the commitment to education by citing increased scholarships for youth belonging to the marginalized section of society. He mentioned measures taken by his government, such as the reservation of 27% seats for the OBC in the all-India quota of medical seats,  and support through the National Overseas Scholarship for underprivileged students pursuing Master and PhD degrees abroad. Additionally, he noted the heightened funding for National Fellowship, particularly for students pursuing PhDs in science-related subjects.

PM Modi also acknowledged the development of Panch Teerths associated with the life of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the constitutional status granted to the National Commission for Backward Classes.

He also cited the Mudra Yojna, which has disbursed financial assistance totaling around Rs. 30 lakh crore to the poor, including those from SC, ST, and OBC communities. He also mentioned the launch of the Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission to foster innovation and self-reliance within marginalized communities.

Why do we celebrate Women’s Day on March 8?

 

Women’s Day was a result of several socialist movements, which demanded voting rights for women and better working conditions. Here is a brief history.

March 8 was marked as Women’s Day by the United Nations in 1975 and officially recognised as such two years later. While countries across the world have since celebrated the day, its roots go much further back.

The UN’s official website says that the first National Woman’s Day was first observed in the United States on February 28, 1909. The Socialist Party of America designated this day in honour of “the 1908 garment workers’ strike in New York, where women protested against working conditions.” Around 15,000 women marched that day for shorter hours of work, better pay and voting rights, the International Women’s Day (IWD) website says.

For many years after that, the last Sunday of February would be marked as Women’s Day. But these were not isolated events, they came amid what is now seen as the First Wave of Feminism. Additionally, some critics believe that the focus on this event overshadows similar initiatives made in erstwhile Soviet and Communist countries. Here’s their brief history.

Early feminism in the US and Europe

The New York protest was preceded by many events that marked a shift in the fight for women’s rights. First Wave Feminism (from the mid-19th century to the 1920s) saw the very first campaigns for equality in terms of voting rights, pay and other fundamental issues in the West.

As early as 1848, Americans Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott staged the first women’s rights convention in New York, after they were denied a chance to speak at an anti-slavery convention. Mott was a staunch campaigner against slavery, while Stanton was a renowned feminist in her own right. In her 1892 speech titled ‘The Solitude of Self’, she laid down the reasons why women deserved to have equal rights:

“The strongest reason for giving woman all the opportunities for higher education, for the full development of her faculties… is the solitude and personal responsibility of her own individual life.”

“No matter how much women prefer to lean, to be protected and supported, nor how much men desire to have them do so, they must make the voyage of life alone, and for safety in an emergency, they must know something of the laws of navigation… It matters not whether the solitary voyager is man or woman; nature, having endowed them equally, leaves them to their own skill and judgment in the hour of danger, and, if not equal to the occasion, alike they perish.”

In Europe, too, socialist feminist movements had begun to take shape.

The IWD website notes, “In 1910 a second International Conference of Working Women was held in Copenhagen. A woman named Clara Zetkin (Leader of the ‘Women’s Office’ for the Social Democratic Party in Germany) tabled the idea of an International Women’s Day. She proposed that every year in every country there should be a celebration on the same day – a Women’s Day – to press for their demands.” Zetkin was a well-regarded speaker, who saw workers’ movements as the only way for women to have their rights. The Guardian noted in a report that her obituary in the Manchester Guardian termed her the “grandmother of communism”.

With over 100 women from 17 countries in attendance at the conference, Zetkin’s suggestion was accepted. In 1911, more than “one million women and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for women’s rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination” in countries across Europe. Thus, there was a growing recognition for having a day of commemoration.

Why March 8?

Russian women protested the possibility of a World War (1914 to 1918) on February 23, 1913, as per the Julian calendar that was then in use in Russia. According to the Gregorian calendar, which was much more widely accepted elsewhere, that date translated as March 8. The day thus became the global benchmark and rallies began to be held on the day in many countries.

Another such Sunday fell on February 23, 1917, as per the Julian calendar. On this day, Russian women protested against the ongoing war and shortages of food and other essentials under Czar Nicholas’s regime.

Historian and activist Rochelle Ruthchild of Harvard’s Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies told Time Magazine how the 1917 protests were unique: “Women were mostly the ones on the breadline, and were the core protesters,” she said. 

She added, “In fact, male revolutionaries like [Leon] Trotsky were upset at them, as these disobedient and misbehaving women were going out on this International Women’s Day when they were meant to wait until May,” which is when Workers’ Day is marked.

The protests would also help galvanise public opinion against the monarchy and just a few days later, the Russian Revolution removed the Czars and a communist state was established. Women also gained the right to vote in Russia that year, while white American women got it in 1920. Women of colour faced hurdles and would only be able to vote after the 1965 Voting Rights Act was passed.

In 2011, the Barack Obama administration also decided to proclaim March as ‘Women’s History Month’.

“This year, we commemorate the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the economic, political, and social achievements of women past, present, and future. International Women’s Day is a chance to pay tribute to ordinary women throughout the world and is rooted in women’s centuries-old struggle to participate in society on an equal footing with men. This day reminds us that, while enormous progress has been made, there is still work to be done before women achieve true parity,” the then-US President said in a statement.

Source: Indian Express, 8/03/24

Why did Humans lose their Tails?

 A new study published on February 28th, 2024 in the journal Nature has identified the specific genetic mutation responsible for ancestral humans and apes losing their tails around 25 million years ago.

The Tailless Ancestor Mystery

While monkeys possess tails, an ancestor species that humans share with apes underwent a key genetic divergence resulting in tail loss over the course of evolution. However, the actual genetic drivers behind this dramatic physiological change were unknown until now.

Serendipitous Discovery

The study’s lead author Bo Xia, currently with the Broad Institute, got intrigued by the evolutionary puzzle after injuring his own tailbone. Along with teams from New York University (NYU) Langone Health and Applied Bioinformatics Labs, his curiosity-driven investigation pinpointed unique jumping gene activity that deactivated the tail-growth gene TBXT.

The Role of Jumping Genes

Over generations, DNA accumulates changes enabling species adaptation through evolution. The study found older repetitive genetic sequences called Alu elements that jumped into strategic introns of the TBXT gene.

Introns are non-coding DNA portions that get sliced out before the gene sequence is converted into proteins. The intron-inserting DNA ‘jumping genes’ disrupted normal protein formation by the tail-regulating TBXT gene.

This genetic mutation was spotted in apes but not monkeys, coinciding with ancestral tail disappearance in the former group after both diverged from a common monkey group ancestor.

Alternative Splicing and Multiple Proteins

The Alu element insertion caused the TBXT gene to undergo alternative splicing and generate multiple proteins variants instead of one form coded by monkeys. This indicates more complex downstream impacts compared to straightforward gene disabling.

Researchers confirmed through lab experiments that inserting the exact Alu sequences into mice TBXT gene also led to truncated tails in mice besides increasing risk of spinal defects.

Evolutionary Significance

The study illustrates how small non-coding DNA changes can profoundly reshape physiology over thousands of generations to enable evolutionary adaptation.

Loss of stabilizing tails may have enabled ancestral apes to adopt bipedal motion crucial for later human development. The mutation likely occurred randomly without an initial adaptive benefit.

However, it conferred survival value once interplay between taillessness and walking upright offered mobility advantages within forest habitats.

Future Impact

Beyond solving the longstanding tail evolutionary mystery, the pathbreaking discovery promises to accelerate genetics research on non-coding DNA and complex alternative gene splicing effects.

Intron sequences dismissed previously as ‘junk DNA’ now open up new appraisal of their hidden role in driving evolutionary changes to anatomy over time.

Deeper analysis can reveal if similar jumping gene insertions underlie other evolutionary divergences between ancestral primates and humans.

Conclusion

The study underscores how small-scale genetic changes can catalyze sweeping physiological adaptations central to a species’ evolutionary history. Shedding light on humanity’s tailless past sets the stage for fresh investigation into other attribute transformations during ancestral primate evolution over millions of years until modern humans emerged.

Gulzar, Sanskrit Scholar Rambhadracharya Selected For 58th Jnanpith Award

 Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya will receive the 58th Jnanpith Award. Gulzar is known for his works in Hindi cinema and is considered one of the finest Urdu poets of this era. Jagadguru Rambhadracharya is the founder and chief of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, and is a renowned Hindu spiritual leader, educator and writer of more than 240 books and texts. The recipients for the award were decided by a selection committee chaired by Jnanpith awardee Pratibha Rai. Established in 1944, the prestigious Jnanpith Award is given annually for outstanding contributions to Indian literature.

What are Obelisks?

 

Recently, researchers at Stanford University discovered a new virus-like entity called obelisks. These obelisks have been found in large numbers within the human mouth and gut.

What are Obelisks?

Obelisks are microscopic entities that contain one or two genes and self-organise into a rod-like shape. They are circular bits of genetic material that have been found hiding inside the human body. While the exact species that host these elements are unknown, it is believed that bacteria or fungi could be probable hosts. The obelisks likely rely on these microbial host cells for replication.

Obelisks vs Viruses and Viroids

The obelisks are distinct from viruses and viroids, two other types of microbiological entities. Viruses cannot replicate without a host and are on the edge of what constitutes life. On the other hand, viroid are tiny scraps of genetic material that cannot make proteins and don’t have a protective shell to encase their genome.

The newly discovered obelisks fall somewhere between viruses and viroids. They have a circular single-stranded RNA genome and no protein coat, like viroids. But, like viruses, their genomes contain genes predicted to code for proteins. All obelisks described so far encode a single major protein known as obulin, and many encode a second, smaller obulin. The function of these obulins is still unknown, as they bear no evolutionary resemblance to any other protein.

Distribution and Prevalence of Obelisks

The Stanford team found almost 30,000 distinct obelisk types by analysing existing datasets taken from the human gut and mouth, as well as other sources. These obelisk genomes have been previously overlooked due to their dissimilarity to anything described before. The researchers found them in datasets spanning the globe and in diverse niches. They were detected in around 7% of microbiome datasets from the human gut and 50% of datasets from the mouth.

Potential Hosts for Obelisks

Obelisks likely rely on microbial host cells, including those that live inside humans, for replication. While the exact species that harbour these elements are unknown, bacteria or fungi are probable hosts. The researchers provided strong evidence that a common bacterial component of dental plaque, Streptococcus sanguinis, plays host to a specific obelisk type.

Obelisks: Friend or Foe?

As of now, the evolutionary and ecological significance of obelisks is unknown. It is not yet confirm whether they are parasitic and harm host cells, or they might be beneficial. Hosts may have evolved defence mechanisms against obelisks or actively recruit them for some advantage. If obelisks change or upset the human microbiome, they could have implications for human health and may even have therapeutic potential.

What is “The Great Unconformity”?

 Scientists have recently made significant strides in understanding “The Great Unconformity,” a geological phenomenon characterized by missing sections of the Earth’s crust in the geological record. This mysterious gap has now been linked to intense glacial erosion during a period known as “Snowball Earth.”

Glacial Erosion and Sedimentary Record Gap

The process of glacial erosion during the ancient “Snowball Earth” period played a pivotal role in creating a substantial gap in the sedimentary record. First observed in 1869 at the Grand Canyon in Arizona, this geological anomaly was identified by experts who noticed a sudden change in the age of rocks, a pattern found globally. Recent studies estimate that 3-5 kilometers of rock were eroded globally due to glacial activity, leaving a billion cubic kilometers of pre-Cambrian material missing from the records.

Extensive Erosion Before the Phanerozoic Era

The proposed theory suggests that more extensive erosion occurred before the Phanerozoic era than previously believed. The Phanerozoic, spanning from 538.8 million years ago to the present, is the current geological eon. Evidence, including isotopes of hafnium and oxygen found in crystals from that era, supports the idea that these materials were eroded from old rock and deposited at low temperatures. The theory also explains the scarcity of asteroid craters older than 700 million years.

Glacial Transport to the Sea

Researchers argue that the glaciers responsible for eroding sedimentary rocks also transported them to the sea. This insight provides a plausible explanation for the current whereabouts of the missing rocks. The discovery not only enhances our understanding of Earth’s ancient history but also sheds light on the dynamic processes that have shaped the planet’s geological landscape.

What are Plastic Rocks?

 A new and peculiar type of rock, containing plastics, has been discovered globally, underscoring the alarming extent of plastic pollution. These plastic rocks, found in 11 countries across five continents, result from the compression of rock and discarded plastic polymers. Here’s what you need to know about this concerning environmental issue.

Identification and Global Presence

These unique rocks, referred to as “plastistones,” “plastiglomerate,” “plasticrust,” and other terms, have been identified on coastlines and inland in various countries. Geologist Patricia Corcoran first reported “plastiglomerate” in Hawaii nearly a decade ago, and since then, they have been found in diverse environments.

Formation Mechanisms

Plastistones can form through various mechanisms, including burning during campfires or waste burning, physical adherence to rocks through wave action, and the chemical binding of plastic and rock material due to sunlight irradiation. These processes highlight the multifaceted nature of plastic rock formation.

Global Plastic Pollution

The discovery of plastistones serves as a stark reminder of the global plastic pollution crisis. Humans contribute approximately 22-48 million metric tonnes of plastic to the environment annually. The mass of plastic deposited has substantial geological significance, and the issue is becoming increasingly complex.

Environmental and Ecological Impact

Plastic rocks alter microbial communities within the soil and nearby environments, impacting local ecosystems. The phenomenon poses ecological risks, with lower microbial diversity observed in plastistones compared to adjacent soil. The release of microplastics from plastistones is a significant concern, spreading across the environment and potentially affecting marine life and humans.

Long-Term Presence

Plastistones are expected to persist as part of natural geographical processes, particularly in areas with high plastic pollution. They are likely to increase in locations such as cities, agricultural soils, and plastic waste dumping sites. The long-term environmental implications of plastistones remain a subject of ongoing research.

Health Concerns

The shedding of microplastics from plastistones poses health risks as these tiny particles have the potential to enter the food chain. Microplastics released into the ocean may reach higher trophic levels, impacting marine mammals and humans through edible fish. The complexity of the plastic pollution problem highlights the need for comprehensive solutions and increased awareness.

YUVAi: Empowering Youth for AI Innovation and Social Impact

  YUVAi, an initiative by the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), and Intel India, is set to feature prominently at the upcoming Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit. This collaborative program focuses on equipping students from class 8 to 12 with essential AI skills, fostering a deeper understanding of AI, and encouraging them to become human-centric designers and users of AI.

Key Features

1. Three-Phase Approach: The YUVAi program progresses in three phases to ensure maximum students can become future-ready. It introduces students to various social themes, guiding their AI knowledge toward solving real-world problems.
2. Cohort Progress: In the first cohort, more than 8,500 students registered and attended online orientation sessions to learn fundamental AI concepts. Teachers also enrolled and underwent orientation. Over 750 students submitted AI-based ideas in response to the eight core themes.
3. Shortlisting and Training: In phase 2, the top 200 AI-based ideas were shortlisted. Students attended online deep dive AI training and mentorship sessions with certified Intel AI coaches and experts. This helped students enhance their solutions.
4. Prototype Development: Phase 3 involved shortlisting the top 50 students who attended a face-to-face rapid modeling workshop. They received mentorship and guidance from industry experts to fine-tune their projects into prototypes. A jury panel selected the top 10 students.
5. GPAI Summit Representation: YUVAi will be represented at the GPAI Summit by its top 10 finalists, showcasing their AI-based social impact projects. This presents an opportunity for YUVAi

to inspire policymakers, educators, and industry leaders at the GPAI Summit. The Top 10 finalists will demonstrate their innovative AI projects, emphasizing the program’s impact and significance in nurturing a future-ready workforce.

Empowering Youth

As the world witnesses the transformative power of AI, YUVAi stands as an encouraging initiative guiding the next generation to responsibly use AI to address societal challenges. By empowering students with AI skills and encouraging them to apply these skills to real-world problems, YUVAi contributes to creating a future where AI becomes a force for positive change.

Collaboration

YUVAi’s participation in the GPAI Summit underscores the importance of collaboration between government entities, industry partners, and educational institutions. The program serves as a model for fostering innovation, skill development, and social impact among the youth, aligning with the broader goals of creating a workforce well-versed in the principles and applications of artificial intelligence.

UNESCO names Kozhikode ‘city of literature’: What this tag means

 The city of Kozhikode in Kerala was added in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN) on Wednesday. Gwalior from Madhya Pradesh was also among the 55 new cities to join the network.

These cities have been handpicked to represent seven creative fields — crafts and folk arts, design, film, gastronomy, literature, media arts, and music. Kozhikode was included in the category of literature and Gwalior in the category of music.

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)

The UCCN was created in 2004 to promote cooperation among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. It now includes 350 cities in over a hundred countries.The network is aimed at leveraging the creative, social, and economic potential of cultural industries. It was launched to promote UNESCO’s goals of cultural diversity and strengthen resilience to threats such as climate change, rising inequality, and rapid urbanisation. It encourages a culture of creativity in urban planning and solutions to urban problems.

Indian cities in the network

Apart from Kozhikode and Gwalior, Varanasi (music), Srinagar (crafts and folk arts) and Chennai (music) are part of the network.

Kozhikode’s literary tradition

The North Kerala city of Kozhikode is home to many promiment personalities of the state’s literary and cultural world. The city, where several leading media houses are headquartered, has hundreds of publishing banners and several libraries enriching its literary tradition.

The first Malayalam novel Kundalatha was born in Kozhikode in 1887. It was authored by Appu Nedungadi. Several illustrious writers like S K Pottekkatt, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, Uroob, Thikkodiyan, NN Kakkad, P Valsala, Akbar Kakkattil, Punathil Kunjabdulla and MT Vasudevan Nair have brought laurels for Kozhikode. The city has also produced many film and theatre professionals in the last half a century.

Objective of the CCCN

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network allows member cities to recognise creativity as an essential component of urban development, notably through partnerships involving the public and private sectors and civil society. It envisages to develop hubs of creativity and innovation and broaden opportunities for creators and professionals in the cultural sector. These cities have to achieve the UN agenda of sustainable development.

Areas of action

The objectives of the network are implemented both at the level of the member cities and at the international level, notably through sharing experiences, knowledge and best practices. There are professional and artistic exchange programmes, research and evaluations on the experience of the creative cities, among other activities.

The annual conference of network cities

A highlight of the network is the annual conference of mayors and other stakeholders of network cities, which offers a unique occasion to strengthen ties between creative cities from across the world. The main objective of the conference is to exchange practical information on policies and activities carried out by cities and stimulate inter-city collaborations.

The last conference was held in Santos, Brazil, and this year’s conference was in Istanbul. The next conference will be held in July 2024 in Braga, Portugal.

What members have to do

Every four years, member cities are required to submit a Membership Monitoring Report, with the aim of demonstrating their steadfast commitment towards the implementation of the UCCN Mission Statement. They present an action plan for the following four years, providing insights into their achievements and lessons learnt, as well as the impact of the designation.

Written by Shaju Philip

Source: Indian Express, 2/11/23

What is JUPITER-3?

 SpaceX, led by visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk, is set to make history once again by launching the world’s largest private satellite to space on July 27. The satellite, named JUPITER-3 and developed by Maxar Technologies, is a breakthrough in the field of communications satellites, boasting impressive size and cutting-edge technology.

SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy Rocket

SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket, known for its triple-booster design, will carry the JUPITER-3 satellite into space. This upcoming launch will signify the Falcon Heavy’s seventh mission, gaining widespread attention since its inaugural flight in 2018. The rocket has proven to be a reliable workhorse in the aerospace industry.

Meet JUPITER-3: The Largest Commercial Communications Satellite

JUPITER-3 is not just any ordinary satellite; it is the largest commercial communications satellite ever built. Developed by Maxar Technologies in Palo Alto, California, this satellite represents a major leap in satellite technology.

Impressive Size and Capabilities

Upon complete deployment, the JUPITER-3 satellite’s dimensions will resemble the wingspan of a commercial airliner, ranging from 130 to 160 feet (approximately 40 to 50 meters). Beyond its size, what sets JUPITER-3 apart are its advanced technological features and capabilities.

Enhancing Satellite Fleet Capacity

One of the primary aims of JUPITER-3 is to double the capacity of Maxar Technologies’ satellite fleet with an additional 500 Gbps. This substantial increase in capacity will enable the company to better serve customers, especially in regions where cable and fiber connectivity are unavailable or unreliable, such as in remote areas.

Wide-Ranging Applications

The JUPITER-3 satellite will cater to various communication needs. Its applications include supporting in-flight Wi-Fi, maritime connections, enterprise networks, backhaul for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and Community Wi-Fi solutions across North and South America.

Technological Advances and Testing

JUPITER-3 features an updated technological architecture that allows for the miniaturization of electronics. It includes solid-state amplifiers and enhanced antenna efficiency. The satellite underwent rigorous vibration and temperature testing, including Thermal Vacuum Testing, to ensure its resilience in the extreme conditions of space.