PRELIMS
GENOME SEQUENCING
Syllabus: GS3 – Science & Technology
In News: First whole ancient Egyptian genome sequenced from 4,500–4,800 years ago.
Key Facts:
- Source of DNA: Teeth (best-preserved ancient DNA source).
- Genome: Complete set of DNA in an organism.
- Human Genome: ~3 billion base pairs, 23 pairs of chromosomes.
- Genome Sequencing: Determining the order of nucleotide bases (A, T, G, C) to analyze genetic information.
DENGIALL — INDIGENOUS DENGUE VACCINE
Syllabus: GS2 – Health
In News: 50% enrolment completed in Phase III trials.
Key Points:
- Developer: Panacea Biotec under NIH (USA) license.
- Type: Tetravalent (targets all 4 dengue virus serotypes).
- Approval: Drug Controller General of India.
- Partners: ICMR-NITVAR & ICMR-NARI for trial coordination.
- Significance: Potential first indigenous dengue vaccine in India.
C-FLOOD (UNIFIED INUNDATION FORECASTING SYSTEM)
Syllabus: GS3 – Disaster Management
In News: Launched by Union Jal Shakti Minister.
Features:
- Developers: C-DAC Pune + Central Water Commission.
- Coverage: Village-level flood forecast for 2 days.
- Current Basins Covered: Mahanadi, Godavari, Tapi.
- Tech Used: 2-D hydrodynamic modelling + HPC (High Performance Computing).
- Mission: National Supercomputing Mission.
FINANCIAL FRAUD RISK INDICATOR (FRI)
Syllabus: GS3 – Economy
In News: RBI advises banks to integrate FRI tool.
Key Details:
- Launched By: Department of Telecommunications (DoT), May 2025.
- Risk Ratings: Medium, High, Very High for mobile numbers.
- Data Sources: I4C Cybercrime Portal, Chakshu, banks.
- Use: Enables banks/UPI services to block fraud transactions.
- Adopters: PhonePe, ICICI Bank.
NIPCCD RENAMED
Syllabus: GS2 – Governance
In News: Renamed as Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development.
Key Facts:
- Founded: 1966 under the Planning Commission.
- Linked Program: Apex body for ICDS training (since 1975).
- Current Status: Autonomous body under Ministry of Women & Child Development.
- HQ: New Delhi, with 5 regional centers.
- Functions:
- Research, training, capacity-building.
- Supports flagship schemes implementation.
