13 February 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

1. AI can make drug-testing precise, and relevant to human biology

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Rising Use of AI in Drug Approval

• The U.S. FDA has noted a sharp increase in the use of AI in drug development submissions.
• In 2016 and 2017, there was only one AI-related submission per year, but this tripled in the next two years.
• By 2021, there were 132 AI-related submissions, showing a tenfold increase from the previous year.

Challenges in Conventional Drug Development

• Traditional drug development takes nearly 10 years and costs over a billion dollars.
• The success rate of conventional (animal-based) drug testing is only 14%.
• Animal testing does not always accurately predict human responses due to differences in metabolism and genetic variability.

Role of AI in Drug Development

AI is now used across different phases of drug development. In the discovery phase, AI helps researchers analyze large databases to select potential drug candidates. AI models predict drug absorption, distribution, and elimination in humans, reducing reliance on animal trials. AI tools assess how different human populations (based on age, sex, and medical conditions) might react to a drug. AI can predict unintended side effects of drugs, helping improve safety assessments before human trials.

AI in Predicting Drug Safety

• AI-based models can assess a drug’s potential risks before human trials begin.
• AI can predict how a chemical compound might affect different organs, helping reduce unexpected adverse effects.
• A recent research study introduced a “safety toolbox” that integrates multiple data types, such as chemical properties and exposure levels, to predict toxicity risks.

Challenges of Using AI in Drug Testing

• The accuracy of AI models depends on the quality of the data they are trained with.
• If AI is trained on biased or incomplete data, its predictions may not be reliable.
• Transparency is another issue, as many AI models do not disclose their internal workings or training data.

FDA’s Draft Guidelines on AI in Drug Development

• The FDA has proposed a stepwise framework to assess the credibility of AI models.
• It emphasizes:
  • Identifying specific research questions AI will address.
  • Evaluating AI model risks, especially for incorrect predictions with life-threatening consequences.
  • Improving data quality and reducing biases to enhance AI model reliability.
  • Continuous monitoring and maintenance of AI models throughout their lifecycle.
• The guidelines particularly focus on AI’s role in preclinical drug testing to assess safety before human trials.

Global and Indian Efforts in AI Regulation

• Other regulatory bodies have also released AI-related drug development guidelines.
• In 2023, India’s New Drugs and Clinical Trials (Amendment) Rules allowed AI-generated data to assess drug safety, reducing reliance on animal trials.

Impact of AI Guidelines

• The guidelines help align government policies, industry expectations, research strategies, and consumer safety.
• They act as a stable reference point for stakeholders to ensure AI is used effectively in drug development. 

2. Should convicted persons contest elections?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Legal Provisions for Disqualification

• The Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act, 1951), lays down rules for disqualifying convicted persons from contesting elections.
• Section 8(3) disqualifies individuals convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to at least two years of imprisonment. They remain disqualified for six years after their release.
• Section 8(1) imposes disqualification irrespective of sentence length for those convicted under laws dealing with heinous crimes such as rape, untouchability, unlawful associations, and corruption.

Election Commission’s Role in Reducing Disqualification

• Section 11 of the RP Act gives the Election Commission (EC) the power to reduce or remove disqualification for convicted individuals.
• In 2019, the EC reduced the disqualification period of a convicted individual from six years to 13 months, enabling them to contest elections.
• This decision was controversial, as the EC had previously recommended stricter measures to curb criminalization of politics.

Current Petition and Government’s Response

• The petition seeks a lifetime ban on convicted persons contesting elections.
• The argument is that if convicted individuals cannot get government jobs, they should not be allowed to become lawmakers.
• However, the Central government has opposed this, stating that MPs and MLAs are not bound by service conditions like government employees, and the existing six-year disqualification after release is sufficient.
• The Supreme Court has asked for a response from both the Central government and the EC.

Need for Electoral Reforms

• A report by ADR highlights that 46% of elected MPs in 2024 have criminal cases, and 31% face serious charges like rape, murder, and kidnapping.
• The Law Commission (1999 and 2014) and the Election Commission have recommended banning individuals from contesting elections if charges are framed against them for offences punishable by more than five years.
• However, political parties have not reached a consensus, fearing misuse of disqualification rules.

Possible Solutions

• A permanent ban may be excessive for cases not involving moral turpitude.
• For heinous crimes and corruption cases, a lifetime ban may be necessary to maintain probity in public life.
• Also, the Election Commission’s power to reduce disqualification periods should be reviewed for constitutional validity. 

3. What is contributing to the downturn in Indian markets?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Impact of U.S. Tariff Policy

• The U.S. President has directed an increase in tariffs on steel and aluminium imports to protect American industries.
• This move has caused concerns in Indian markets about possible dumping of excess Asian steel in India, leading to lower prices and increased competition.
• Indian steel manufacturers are already seeing price reductions, with reports of Net Smelting Return (NSR) dropping by ₹1,800 in one quarter.
• India’s Directorate General for Trade Remedies (DGTR) is investigating the import of steel products to address concerns of unfair trade practices.

Foreign Investment Outflow

• FIIs and FPIs are shifting their investments to U.S. bonds, which are seen as safer compared to Indian markets.
• Higher U.S. bond yields attract foreign investors away from Indian stocks, leading to capital outflow.
• Contributing factors to this trend include slow domestic earnings growth, high stock valuations, inflation exceeding the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 4% threshold, and trade uncertainties.
• The continuous FII selling has impacted market sentiment, with foreign investors selling ₹93,907 crore in Indian markets this year.

Impact on Stocks

• Mid-cap and small-cap stocks are experiencing price corrections due to heavy sell-offs.
• Domestic institutional investors are absorbing some of the foreign outflows but not enough to prevent the market downturn.

Near-term Outlook

• The possibility of a trade war, global economic slowdown, and geopolitical tensions could continue influencing markets.
• FIIs are expected to return when Indian economic growth and corporate earnings improve and when the U.S. dollar weakens.
• Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) flows are expected to remain strong and help absorb a portion of the market selling pressure. 

4. India-France Deepen Strategic Partnership: Key Agreements on Nuclear, Defence, AI, and Economic Cooperation

(Source – Indian Express, Section – The Cover Page – Page No. – 01)

Analysis of the news:

India-France Strategic Partnership: Key Outcomes

1. Strengthening Nuclear Cooperation

• India and France reaffirmed their commitment to civil nuclear energy as a key element of energy security and a low-carbon future. 
• Discussions centered around the Jaitapur nuclear power plant, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and enhanced nuclear professional training through bilateral agreements.

2. Defence and Security Collaboration

Both nations reinforced defence ties under the 2024 Defence Industrial Roadmap. Key agreements included:

• Submarine Cooperation: Progress in the Scorpene submarine project, with integration of DRDO’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.
• Missile and Engine Development: Ongoing discussions on helicopter engines, jet engines, and missile systems in collaboration with Safran Group.
• Military Equipment Partnership: India invited France to explore the Pinaka MBRL system, and France included India as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Roadmap

• Building on the AI Action Summit in Paris, both nations launched an India-France AI Roadmap, emphasizing safe, open, and trustworthy AI development.

4. Expanding Economic and Technological Cooperation

• Strengthening Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation for climate and SDG-focused projects.
• France’s Proparco investing 13 million euros in Indian microfinance institutions for financial inclusion and women empowerment.
• Supporting 10 Indian startups at French incubator Station F and expanding UPI usage in France.

5. Cultural and Historical Engagement

• Prime Minister Modi and President Macron jointly inaugurated the Indian Consulate in Marseille and honored Indian soldiers of World War I at Mazargues War Cemetery, reinforcing historical ties.

Conclusion

• The agreements highlight a deepening strategic partnership, expanding across nuclear energy, defence, AI, and economic collaboration, positioning India and France as key global allies. 

5. What does the law say about obscenity?

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)

Analysis of the news:

Legal Framework on Online Obscenity

• Obscenity in digital content is governed by Section 294 of the BNS and Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000. 
• Section 294 penalizes the sale, display, or profit from obscene material, including digital content, with imprisonment of up to two years and a fine. 
• Section 67 of the IT Act provides stricter punishment—up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh for first-time offenders.

Evolution of Judicial Interpretation

• Obscenity laws in India were initially shaped by the Ranjit D. Udeshi v. State of Maharashtra (1964) case, which applied the British Hicklin test—judging content by its potential to corrupt impressionable minds. 
• However, global legal perspectives evolved, with the U.S. and U.K. adopting the “community standards” test, assessing content in its entirety rather than isolated sections. 
• India followed suit in Aveek Sarkar v. State of West Bengal (2014), which ruled that obscenity should be determined by contemporary social standards.

Judicial Stance on Online Content

• The Supreme Court’s March 2024 ruling on College Romance reaffirmed the distinction between obscene material and profane language. 
• It quashed charges under IPC Section 292 and IT Act Section 67, clarifying that vulgar expressions do not necessarily provoke lustful thoughts and should be evaluated based on societal norms. 
• This precedent may influence Allahbadia’s case, determining whether his remarks meet the threshold for legal obscenity.

Prelims Facts

1. Would Trump break the capital controls taboo with a Tobin tax?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)

Concerns Over Trade Deficit

• The U.S. administration believes trade deficits result from foreign countries undervaluing their currencies.
• This practice is thought to harm American industries and jobs.
• Countries with trade surpluses reinvest in U.S. assets, strengthening the dollar and reducing U.S. export competitiveness.

Tariffs as a Policy Tool

• Tariffs on imports are being used to counter trade imbalances.
• However, they often strengthen the dollar, worsening competitiveness issues instead of resolving them.

• Experts suggest a Tobin Tax on foreign investments to generate revenue and regulate capital inflows.
• This tax could be a better alternative to tariffs.

What is Tobin Tax?

The Tobin Tax is a small tax on foreign currency transactions proposed by economist James Tobin in 1972 to reduce short-term speculative trading. It aims to stabilize currency markets by discouraging excessive speculation while generating government revenue. The tax is particularly relevant during financial crises, as it can help regulate capital flows and reduce market volatility. Some countries have considered implementing it to control exchange rate fluctuations.

2. PM Modi Highlights Savarkar’s Escape Attempt in Marseille

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)

Analysis of the news:

Savarkar’s Attempted Escape

• Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, arrested in London in 1910 for anti-British activities, attempted a daring escape while being transported to India. 
• On July 8, 1910, as SS Morea docked in Marseille, he locked himself in a washroom, squeezed through the porthole, and swam ashore. 
• However, he was soon caught by the French maritime gendarmerie and handed back to British guards, leading to an international dispute.

Legal Dispute at PCA

• France objected to Savarkar’s return, arguing it was an irregular extradition. 
• The case was taken to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), which ruled on February 24, 1911, that Britain was not obligated to return him to France, as the agents involved had acted in “good faith.” 
• This verdict upheld British custody, leading to Savarkar’s trial in India.

Savarkar’s Sentencing and Imprisonment

• Following his return, the Bombay High Court sentenced Savarkar to two life terms of 25 years each. 
• On July 4, 1911, he was sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he endured rigorous imprisonment.

Savarkar’s Perspective on His Escape

• In Mazi Janmathep (1927), later translated as The Story of My Transportation for Life, Savarkar recounted his escape attempt and its aftermath. 
• He noted that while it led to heightened security, it also earned him admiration among fellow prisoners and reinforced his image as a determined revolutionary.

3. Euclid Telescope Discovers Rare Einstein Ring

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)

Analysis of the news:

Discovery of the Einstein Ring

• The images, taken in September 2023 and released recently, show a bright central galaxy surrounded by a luminous ring. 
• This discovery, made in Euclid’s first dataset, has been described as “extraordinary and thrilling” by astronomers.

What is an Einstein Ring?

• An Einstein ring is a circular pattern of light caused by gravitational lensing, where a massive celestial body bends and magnifies light from a more distant galaxy aligned behind it. 
• In this case, NGC 6505 acted as the gravitational lens, distorting the light from a galaxy 4.42 billion light-years away. 
• Named after Albert Einstein, who predicted this effect in his general theory of relativity, Einstein rings are extremely rare, with less than 1% of galaxies exhibiting them.

Scientific Significance of Einstein Rings

• Einstein rings provide crucial insights into dark matter, which constitutes 85% of the universe’s matter but remains undetected. 
• Since dark matter influences gravity without emitting light, gravitational lensing allows scientists to study its presence indirectly. 
• Additionally, these rings help researchers observe distant galaxies and gather data on the universe’s expansion. 
• Observations like these are only possible through advanced space telescopes like Euclid.

4. PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana Turns One

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2102149&reg=3&lang=1 )

Introduction

• Launched in February 2024, it aims to provide free electricity by promoting rooftop solar panel installations.
• The goal is to supply solar power to one crore households by March 2027.
• By January 27, 2025, 8.46 lakh households have benefitted, with installations increasing to 70,000 per month.
• ₹4,308.66 crore has been given as subsidies, with 45% of beneficiaries receiving zero electricity bills.

Key Benefits

• Households get free electricity, reducing their energy costs.
• The government expects to save ₹75,000 crore annually in electricity expenses.
• The scheme promotes renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions.

Subsidy and Loans

• Subsidies range from ₹30,000 to ₹78,000 based on electricity consumption.
• Households can apply through a National Portal and receive subsidies within 15 days.
• Low-interest, collateral-free loans are available at 7% for installations up to 3 kW.

Impact

• Households can save on bills and earn by selling surplus energy.
• The scheme will add 30 GW solar capacity, reduce 720 million tonnes of CO2 emissions, and create 17 lakh jobs.

Model Solar Village

• One village per district will be developed as a Model Solar Village with ₹1 crore funding.

Conclusion

• The scheme aims to install one crore solar rooftops by March 2027, ensuring savings, sustainability, and energy independence.