DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS

Dhruva Space, an Indian space tech startup, is gearing up for the launch of its first commercial satellite mission, LEAP-1.

About LEAP-1 Mission

• LEAP-1 is Dhruva Space’s first commercial satellite mission, designed to carry payloads for artificial intelligence (AI) and Earth observation.

• The mission is powered by Dhruva Space's P-30 satellite platform, which was successfully space-qualified during the LEAP-TD mission on ISRO's PSLV-C58 in January 2024.

• The mission is a collaboration between Dhruva Space, Australia-based Akula Tech, and Esper Satellites.

Payloads on LEAP-1:

1. Nexus-01:

   • AI Module: The Nexus-01 payload features an advanced AI module capable of on-orbit data processing and AI/ML model retraining.

   • This AI module enables near-real-time insights by continuously improving via live sensor data retraining.

   • Applications: It supports critical applications such as fire detection and spectral analysis, which can be adapted and optimized through continuous AI learning.

   Esper Satellites’ OTR-2 Mission:

   • The OTR-2 payload is equipped with a hyperspectral imager.

   • This imager provides spectrally rich Earth observation data, offering a new benchmark in remote sensing technology.

   • The data collected through the EarthTones API will be invaluable for various sectors, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.

Significance of LEAP-1 Mission

The LEAP-1 mission combines the power of artificial intelligence with advanced Earth observation technology, enhancing capabilities in several critical fields:

• Defense: AI-driven insights for enhanced security monitoring.

• Disaster Response: Rapid analysis of disaster zones, enabling timely interventions.

• Agriculture: Spectral analysis for soil and crop health monitoring.

• Mining: Remote sensing for resource mapping and exploration.

• Environmental Monitoring: Advanced tools for assessing and tracking environmental changes.

Recently, Russia officially declared that it no longer considers itself bound by the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.

About the INF Treaty

The INF Treaty was a pivotal arms control agreement signed between the United States and the Soviet Union (now Russia) in 1987. The agreement aimed to address the growing concerns of nuclear proliferation in Europe and the escalating arms race during the Cold War.

Objective

The treaty was designed to de-escalate the nuclear arms race by targeting and eliminating two categories of nuclear missiles:

1. Ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometers.

2. Elimination of entire classes of weapons in the European theatre, where both the U.S. and the USSR had significant missile deployments.

Both parties agreed to destroy these missile systems, helping to reduce the threat of nuclear conflict in Europe.

Key Provisions

• Missile Destruction: The treaty led to the elimination of 2,619 missiles over a period of three years.

• Verification: Both the U.S. and the Soviet Union (later Russia) allowed mutual inspections and verification by observers to ensure compliance.

• Security: It was a measure to prevent the escalation of a dangerous nuclear arms race, particularly in Europe, where both powers had substantial missile arsenals.

The treaty came about through years of diplomatic negotiations during the leadership of U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, and was seen as a breakthrough in the global effort to curb nuclear proliferation.

Present Status of the INF Treaty

In recent years, the treaty has been under strain:

• U.S. Withdrawal: The United States formally withdrew from the INF Treaty in 2019, citing violations by Russia, specifically the development and deployment of new missile systems that allegedly violated the treaty’s terms.

• Russia’s Stance: Following the U.S. withdrawal, Russia has declared that it will no longer adhere to the treaty’s terms, thereby ending its commitments under the agreement.

• This means that both powers are now free to develop and deploy intermediate-range nuclear missiles, further heightening tensions in global security.

Implications of the Treaty’s Breakdown

• Increased Nuclear Proliferation Risks: The dissolution of the INF Treaty may spark a new arms race, especially in Europe and Asia, as both the U.S. and Russia are now likely to develop and deploy new nuclear-capable missiles in these regions.

• Global Security Concerns: The treaty's collapse also raises concerns about the future of arms control agreements, as other nuclear powers might reconsider or withdraw from similar treaties, undermining global non-proliferation efforts.

• Geopolitical Tensions: With both countries now free to pursue new missile systems, countries like China and North Korea may also seek to advance their own missile programs, further complicating global security dynamics.

Recently, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) sanctioned a series of procurement proposals worth approximately ?67,000 crore to enhance India's military preparedness.

About Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the highest decision-making body within the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the procurement of defense equipment and services. The council plays a key role in ensuring that the Indian armed forces are equipped with the necessary capabilities in a timely manner, within budgetary constraints.

Formation

The DAC was established in 2001 following the Group of Minister’s recommendations on "Reforming the National Security System," which was a direct response to the Kargil War (1999). The intent was to streamline and improve defense procurement processes and capabilities for the armed forces.

Composition of the DAC

• Chairman: Defence Minister

• Members:

  • Minister of State for Defence

  • Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)

  • Chief of Army Staff (COAS)

  • Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)

  • Chief of Air Staff (CAS)

  • Defence Secretary

  • Secretary, Department of Defence Production and Supplies

  • Secretary, Defence Research and Development

  • Secretary, Defence Finance

  • Vice Chief of Defence Staff (when appointed) / CISC

  • Special Secretary (Acquisition)

• Member Secretary: Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (PP&FD)

The DAC’s composition ensures that all branches of the military, as well as key departments within the Ministry of Defence, are represented in the decision-making process.

Functions of the DAC

The DAC is tasked with several critical functions to ensure the defense forces are adequately equipped:

1. Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP):

   • The DAC gives in-principle approval for a 15-year LTIPP, guiding the overall defense acquisitions and ensuring that long-term needs are met.

2. Approval for Acquisition Proposals:

   • The DAC evaluates and approves acquisition proposals, ensuring that the requirements of the armed forces are met in a timely manner.

3. Categorization of Acquisitions:

   • Proposals are categorized into three main types:

     • Buy

     • Buy & Make

     • Make

4. Single Vendor Clearance:

   • The DAC looks into issues related to single vendor clearances, ensuring fair and transparent procurement.

5. Offset Provisions:

   • The DAC takes decisions regarding the offset provisions in procurement proposals exceeding ?300 crore, which involves a return of business to the Indian defense industry.

6. Transfer of Technology (ToT):

   • It oversees decisions related to the Transfer of Technology for the ‘Buy & Make’ category of acquisitions.

7. Field Trial Evaluation:

   • The DAC also assesses and monitors the field trial evaluations to ensure that the equipment meets the desired standards and capabilities.

The 64th National Exhibition of Art (NEA), organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi, was recently inaugurated in New Delhi with a grand ceremony. The NEA is one of the most prestigious annual events for visual art in India, showcasing the nation's contemporary, modern, folk, and tribal art.

About Lalit Kala Akademi:

The Lalit Kala Akademi, India's National Academy of Art, was established by the Government of India on 5th August 1954 as an autonomous body to promote and propagate the understanding of Indian art, both domestically and internationally.

• Inauguration: It was inaugurated on 5th August 1954 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, who was the then Minister for Education.

• Statutory Authority: The Akademi gained the status of a statutory authority in 1957 under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.

• Headquarters: New Delhi.

• Key Functions:

  • The Akademi operates through a General Council, Executive Board, and various committees.

  • It also maintains regional centers located in cities such as Chennai, Lucknow, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Garhi.

• Funding: The institution is primarily funded by the Ministry of Culture of India.

• Role in Art:

  • The Akademi has been instrumental in identifying, showcasing, and documenting visual art in India, including contemporary, modern, folk, and tribal art. It has preserved a permanent collection that reflects the vitality, complexity, and evolving patterns of Indian visual culture.

  • The Akademi promotes Indian visual art on the global stage through various Cultural Agreements and Cultural Exchange Programmes.

The National Exhibition of Art (NEA):

• Prestige: The National Exhibition of Art (NEA) is considered the most prestigious event organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi. It serves as a platform to showcase the latest trends and advancements in visual art, particularly highlighting the work of contemporary Indian artists.

• Beginnings: The NEA started in 1955, and over the years, it has become a hallmark for the Indian art community, providing both visibility and recognition for emerging and established artists across the country.

• Focus: The exhibition is a key event for showcasing visual art advancements within the calendar year, encompassing diverse mediums such as paintings, sculptures, photography, and other forms of artistic expression.

The Lalit Kala Akademi and its National Exhibition of Art play a crucial role in promoting Indian art globally and preserving its diverse artistic heritage. The NEA is especially significant for artists to present their work on a national stage, gaining recognition from art critics, curators, and art lovers alike.

The Nilgiri Tahr is a mountain ungulate species that is endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats in India. Recently, a joint census in Kerala and Tamil Nadu reported a population of 2,668 Nilgiri tahrs, signaling some success in the conservation efforts for this endangered species.

Scientific and Common Names:

• Scientific Name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius

• Common Names: Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Ibex, or simply Ibex

• Local Name: Varayaadu in local parlance.

Physical Features:

• The Nilgiri Tahr is a stocky mountain goat with short, coarse fur and a distinctive bristly mane.

• Males are typically larger than females and tend to have a darker color as they mature.

• Both males and females have curved horns, but the horns of the males are significantly larger.

• Mature males have distinct facial markings, which set them apart.

Habitat and Distribution:

• The Nilgiri Tahr is found in a 400 km stretch of the Western Ghats, which spans parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

• These animals are typically found in montane grasslands at elevations ranging from 1,200 m to 2,600 m. These areas are often interspersed with pockets of stunted forests, locally called 'sholas'.

• One of the largest populations of Nilgiri Tahr is found in the Eravikulam National Park in Kerala, which boasts the highest density of this species.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: The Nilgiri Tahr is classified as Endangered, which highlights the species' vulnerability due to threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and climatic changes.

• Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: It is listed under Schedule I, offering it the highest level of legal protection in India.

A team of researchers from Mizoram University has recently discovered a new species of rain snake, Smithophis leptofasciatus, in the tropical montane forests of Mizoram. This discovery adds to the growing knowledge of the Smithophis genus, which is primarily found in northeastern India and its surrounding regions.

About Smithophis leptofasciatus:

• Common Name: Narrow-banded Rain Snake

• Scientific Name: Smithophis leptofasciatus

• Genus: Smithophis (a genus of rain snakes)

• Etymology:

  • The species name "leptofasciatus" is derived from Greek and Latin, meaning "narrow-banded." This refers to the distinctive narrow, incomplete transverse bands that adorn the snake's body.

Physical Features:

• The narrow-banded rain snake is easily recognized by its distinctive dorsal markings: narrow, creamish-white or yellowish-lime transverse bands on a shiny black body.

• These markings set the species apart from other similar species within the Smithophis genus.

Habitat:

• The new species was discovered in humid, shaded microhabitats near small streams in the tropical montane forests of Mizoram, located at elevations between 900 and 1,200 meters above sea level.

• The snake thrives in wet habitats, especially those with abundant water, which is why they are commonly referred to as rain snakes.

Behavior and Lifestyle:

• Semi-aquatic and nocturnal: The Smithophis leptofasciatus has a semi-aquatic, nocturnal lifestyle. This was confirmed through field observations during the monsoon season.

• As a nocturnal species, it likely hunts or forages during the night, possibly feeding on small aquatic organisms or invertebrates found in its wet, forested habitat.

Significance of the Discovery:

• Smithophis leptofasciatus is the fifth known species of the Smithophis genus, bringing the total count of recognized species in this genus to five.

• All of these species have been discovered in northeastern India and its surrounding regions, which highlights the rich biodiversity of the area, especially in the tropical montane forests.

According to Crisil Ratings, around 26 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy (RE) projects in India are expected to be impacted with the end of the waiver on Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges provided for solar and wind projects. This could pose challenges for developers and investors in the renewable energy sector.

What is the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS)?

The Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) is a high-voltage power transmission network that plays a crucial role in transmitting electricity across state borders in India. It facilitates the efficient distribution of electricity from power-rich regions to energy-deficient areas.

Key Features of ISTS:

• High-Voltage Network: Operates at voltages above 132 kV, ensuring efficient transmission and minimizing losses over long distances.

• Managed by CTUIL: The system is managed by the Central Transmission Utility of India Limited (CTUIL), a subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) under the Ministry of Power.

• Grid Stability & Loss Reduction: Helps reduce transmission losses, and contributes to enhanced grid stability, which is essential for ensuring uninterrupted power supply.

• Cross-State Electricity Flow: Connects regions with a surplus power supply (like coastal areas with wind and solar potential) to regions with deficient supply, enabling more balanced and efficient electricity distribution.

• Unified Energy Market: The ISTS system enables the creation of a unified energy market, where electricity can be transmitted across state boundaries to meet demand. This ensures flexibility, and overcomes geographical constraints on power supply.

• Supports Renewable Energy: One of the main advantages of ISTS is that it allows for the transmission of renewable energy like solar and wind power across states, which is crucial for large-scale renewable energy projects.

How Does ISTS Work?

1. Power Generation: Electricity is generated from various sources, including solar farms, wind parks, hydro plants, and thermal stations.

2. Grid Connection: The generated power is transmitted to ISTS substations, which are high-voltage facilities managed by the Central Transmission Utility (CTU). These substations "step up" the voltage to reduce transmission losses.

3. High-Voltage Transmission: The electricity is transported through 132 kV and above transmission lines across multiple states, ensuring minimal energy loss even over long distances.

4. Load Management: Regional Load Dispatch Centers (RLDCs) and the National Load Dispatch Center (NLDC) regulate the flow of electricity to balance supply and demand.

5. Distribution: The power is stepped down at state-level substations and distributed to industries, businesses, and residential areas via local transmission and distribution networks.

Implications of Ending ISTS Waiver on RE Projects

The end of the waiver on ISTS charges could raise the cost of transmitting electricity from renewable energy projects, particularly in remote locations. This will impact projects such as solar and wind farms, which are often located in areas far from major consumption centers. Developers may face increased transmission costs, which could:

• Raise the overall cost of renewable energy generation.

• Affect the financial viability of projects that were initially relying on the waiver.

• Reduce the attractiveness of investments in renewable energy projects.

This could also lead to an increase in electricity tariffs, particularly for consumers relying on renewable energy sources.

The Chhattisgarh High Court recently acquitted a man of double murder charges on the grounds of legal insanity, underscoring the importance of mental state during criminal trials. This case brings attention to the defense of legal insanity in criminal law, which can excuse individuals from criminal responsibility if they are proven to be mentally unfit at the time of committing a crime.

What is Legal Insanity?

Legal insanity is a legal defense that can be used in criminal cases when a defendant claims they were mentally incapacitated at the time of the crime.

• Definition: It refers to a severe mental condition that prevents a person from understanding the nature of their actions or distinguishing right from wrong during the commission of a crime. This condition must be serious enough to excuse them from criminal responsibility.

• Not a Medical Definition: Legal insanity is a legal, not a clinical concept. This means that simply being diagnosed with a mental disorder is not enough to establish legal insanity. The defendant must show that their mental state at the time of the crime rendered them incapable of forming the intent to commit the crime.

• Burden of Proof: In such cases, the accused carries the burden of proving that they were legally insane at the time of the crime. This typically involves psychiatric evaluations and presenting evidence of behavior that supports the claim.

How Legal Insanity Works in a Court of Law:

1. Mental Health Evidence: The defendant must provide evidence—often psychiatric evaluations—that indicates they were suffering from a severe mental illness during the commission of the offense. Evidence may include:

   • Conduct before, during, or after the crime.

   • Medical records or expert testimonies to support the claim.

2. Types of Legal Insanity:

   • Emotional Insanity: This refers to a state where violent emotions or passions temporarily overwhelm a person’s intellect and lead to deranged behavior.

   • Temporary Insanity: This is a situation where the accused is only temporarily incapable of understanding the crime, typically during the commission of the act.

3. Court's Role: The court must determine whether the defendant had the capacity to understand the crime they were committing. If the defendant could not appreciate the nature of the act or was unable to control their actions due to a mental condition, they may be exempt from criminal responsibility.

Legal Insanity in Recent Judgments:

• Supreme Court’s View: In the Surendra Mishra vs. State of Jharkhand (2011) case, the Supreme Court of India emphasized that not everyone suffering from mental illness is automatically excused from criminal liability. The burden of proof lies with the accused to show that they were legally insane at the time of committing the crime.

• Onus of Proof: The accused needs to demonstrate that their mental state at the time of the offense prevented them from forming the intent to commit the crime. The court often relies on medical records, psychiatric evaluations, and behavioral evidence to make this determination.

Medical Insanity vs. Legal Insanity:

• Medical Insanity: This refers to a clinical diagnosis of a mental health disorder. While medical insanity addresses a person's health and their need for treatment, it does not necessarily mean that a person is incapable of making decisions or being held accountable for their actions.

• Impact on Decision-Making: A person diagnosed with a mental illness may still have the capacity to make decisions in their daily life. Therefore, medical insanity alone does not automatically absolve someone from criminal responsibility.

Implications of Legal Insanity in Criminal Trials:

• Exemption from Criminal Responsibility: If a person successfully proves legal insanity, they may be exempted from criminal charges. In such cases, the individual might be sent to a mental health institution for treatment rather than prison.

• Importance in Trials: This defense highlights the importance of mental health in criminal trials and the need to evaluate an individual's mental state at the time of the offense. Courts increasingly recognize that severe mental illness should be taken into account when determining criminal liability.

Conclusion:

The recent acquittal of a man in Chhattisgarh under the legal insanity defense underscores the legal system's understanding of mental health issues in criminal law. Legal insanity ensures that individuals who are mentally incapacitated at the time of committing a crime are treated differently, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.