4th June 2025 – Current Affairs

1.Asian Development Bank (ADB) Initiatives in India – Economy

Why in News?

• The President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently announced a five-year initiative to transform urban infrastructure across India, with an estimated investment of $10 billion.

About Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Establishment and Headquarters

• Founded: 19th December 1966
• Headquarters: Manila, Philippines
• Purpose: Multilateral development finance institution for the Asia-Pacific region

Functions of ADB

ADB supports social and economic development in its member countries through:

• Grants
• Loans
• Technical Assistance
• Equity Investments
• Support for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)

ADB’s Focus Areas

Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ADB prioritizes six key sectors:

1. Education
2. Health
3. Transport
4. Energy
5. Finance
6. Climate Change

Membership

• Initially had 31 members in 1966; now 69 members
• Includes 49 regional members from Asia and the Pacific
• Open to:
  • Members and associate members of the UN Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East
  • Other regional and non-regional developed countries

Governance Structure

• Board of Governors: One representative from each member country
• Board of Directors: 12 members elected by the Board of Governors
• Voting Power:
  • Based on a weighted voting system
  • Similar to the World Bank
  • Votes depend on capital subscriptions by members

Sources of Funding

ADB raises capital through:

• International bond markets
• Member contributions
• Retained earnings

Significance of ADB’s $10 Billion Urban Infrastructure Initiative in India

• Supports sustainable urban development
• Enhances livability and economic productivity in cities
• Aligns with India’s goals under schemes like Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT, and Urban Transport Initiatives
• Encourages climate-resilient and inclusive infrastructure development
• Strengthens India–ADB cooperation, making India a key focus in ADB’s regional development agenda

Summary

The Asian Development Bank (ADB), headquartered in Manila and established in 1966, plays a key role in financing and supporting development across Asia and the Pacific. Recently, it announced a $10 billion initiative over five years aimed at upgrading urban infrastructure in India, reflecting its continued commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth. The ADB functions through loans, grants, and partnerships and focuses on key sectors like education, transport, energy, and climate change, while operating with a governance structure similar to other global financial institutions.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about the Asian Development Bank (ADB):
1.ADB is headquartered in Singapore.
2.It follows a one-country-one-vote system.
3.It provides funding only to government entities in developing countries.
Which of the statements above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. None of the above
D. All of the above

Answer: C. None of the above
Explanation: HQ is in Manila, Philippines; it uses a weighted voting system; ADB supports public and private sectors, including PPPs.

2. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) raises funds through which of the following?
1.International bond markets
2.Member contributions
3.Retained earnings
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: D. 1, 2, and 3

Mains

1. Discuss the role of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in promoting sustainable urban infrastructure in India. What are the key areas of focus, and how does it align with India’s development goals?

2. Examine the governance structure of the Asian Development Bank. Compare it with other multilateral development banks like the World Bank. How does the voting mechanism impact decision-making?

2.Phytoplankton: Their Role and Ecological Significance – Environment

Why in News?

• Recent studies from U.S. research institutions show that iron released from human activities stimulates spring phytoplankton blooms and accelerates nutrient consumption in marine ecosystems.

What are Phytoplankton?

• Microscopic aquatic plants, also known as microalgae
• Float in the sunlit upper layers of oceans
• Contain chlorophyll and perform photosynthesis
• Convert inorganic nutrients (like nitrate and phosphate) into proteins and carbohydrates

Key Characteristics

Main Classes of Phytoplankton

1. Diatoms
   • Have rigid silica shells
   • Drift with ocean currents
2. Dinoflagellates
   • Move using flagella (tail-like structures)
   • Some are bioluminescent and can cause red tides

Ecological Role and Significance

• Base of Marine Food Chain: Feed organisms like zooplankton, jellyfish, shrimp, and snails
• Carbon Cycle: Absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, helping regulate global climate
• Oxygen Generation: Produce about half of the Earth’s oxygen
• Nutrient Cycling: Help recycle nutrients in ocean ecosystems

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)

• Occur when nutrient levels (especially nitrogen and phosphorus) become excessively high
• Lead to overgrowth of phytoplankton, especially toxic species
• Consequences:
  • Toxins harmful to fish, shellfish, and humans
  • Decrease in water oxygen levels, causing dead zones
  • Impact fisheries and tourism industries

Impact of Human Activities

• Human-induced release of iron (e.g., from combustion or mining) can:
  • Stimulate phytoplankton blooms
  • Accelerate nutrient uptake and depletion
  • Disrupt ecosystem balance if unchecked

Summary

Phytoplankton are microscopic, chlorophyll-containing marine organisms that form the foundation of the oceanic food chain. They play a vital role in the carbon cycle, produce about 50% of Earth’s oxygen, and support marine biodiversity. While essential to ecological balance, their excessive growth—often triggered by human-induced nutrient input—can lead to harmful algal blooms (HABs), posing risks to marine life and human health. Understanding phytoplankton dynamics is therefore crucial in the context of climate change, ocean health, and environmental sustainability.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. With reference to phytoplankton, consider the following statements:
1.They are autotrophic organisms found in deep ocean waters.
2.Phytoplankton are responsible for nearly half of Earth’s oxygen production.
3.Harmful algal blooms are caused due to phytoplankton overgrowth in nutrient-poor conditions.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Answer: B. 2 only
Explanation: Phytoplankton are found in sunlit upper ocean layers (not deep waters); HABs occur in nutrient-rich, not nutrient-poor, conditions.

2. Which of the following is a correct match?

A. Both correct
B. Only Dinoflagellates
C. Only Diatoms
D. Neither

Answer: B. Only Dinoflagellates
Explanation: Diatoms have rigid silica shells, not flexible walls.

Mains

1. Phytoplankton are central to marine ecosystems and global climate regulation. Discuss their ecological significance and the implications of human-induced changes in their populations.

2. What are Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)? Explain their causes and consequences, and suggest measures to monitor and mitigate their impact on marine ecosystems.

3. Heatwaves and Their Toll on India’s Workforce Productivity – Environment

Why in News?

• In 2025, India experienced an early and intense heatwave, with temperatures rising unusually from late February.
• Despite the early monsoon bringing some relief, the economic and health impacts remain severe.
• The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that India has lost around $100 billion due to heat-induced productivity declines.

Key Facts & Statistics

Affected Populations

• Informal Workers:
  • Include farmers, construction workers, vendors, delivery agents
  • Lack access to protective gear, shade, or regulated hours
  • Suffer both health risks and income loss
• Blue-Collar/Factory Workers:
  • Face decreased productivity, absenteeism, and heat-related illnesses
• Livestock & Rural Poor:
  • Heat stress impacts animal health and productivity
  • Small farmers lack cooling infrastructure or welfare guidelines

Urban Heat Island Effect

• Urban areas retain more heat due to concrete surfaces, reduced vegetation, and poor ventilation
• Leads to hotter nights, impairing rest and recovery
• Particularly acute in Tier-II and Tier-III cities

Sectoral Impacts

1. Agriculture

• Crop failures due to early heat and lack of rainfall
• Decrease in crop yields and livestock productivity
• Pushes farmers into heat-exposed non-farm jobs (e.g., construction)

2. Manufacturing & Industrial Output

• Higher temperatures reduce worker efficiency and equipment functionality
• Impacts daily output, factory productivity, and supply chains

3. Urban Employment & Informal Economy

• Vendors, gig workers, and service staff see income drops and health issues
• Poor housing worsens exposure to ambient heat

Government Response & Heat Mitigation Strategies

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines

• Worker protection protocols:
  • Heat education
  • Regulated work hours
  • Water, medical access, shaded rest areas
  • Appropriate clothing

Localized Heat Action Plans (HAPs)

• Short-term:
  • Water stations
  • Cooling shelters
• Long-term:
  • Urban greening, increasing tree cover
  • Expanding water bodies
  • Zoning laws integrating heat-risk data (e.g., Chennai’s master plan)

Limitations

• Most plans focus on urban areas
• Rural regions still lack:
  • Quality healthcare
  • Weather-resilient housing
  • Early-warning systems
  • Efficient heatwave communication networks

Innovative Solutions Under Consideration

• Heat Insurance for Informal Workers:
  • Workers pay small premiums
  • Compensation paid if a heatwave prevents work
  • Still in pilot phases; implementation hurdles remain
• Disaster Relief Funds:
  • State Disaster Management Funds can support emergency measures
  • Long-term resilience demands systemic investment and planning

Summary

India’s escalating heatwave crisis is not just an environmental concern—it is a deeply interconnected economic, social, and public health issue. Rising temperatures have disproportionately affected the informal workforce, agriculture, and industrial productivity. With $100 billion in economic losses and millions of jobs at risk, heatwaves pose a significant threat to India’s development goals. While government responses, including NDMA guidelines and localized Heat Action Plans, show promise, inclusive implementation—especially in rural areas—is critical. Innovative solutions like heat insurance, urban planning, and infrastructure upgrades must be scaled up to build climate resilience and protect vulnerable livelihoods.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding heatwaves in India:
1.Heatwaves typically occur between June and September.
2.The Urban Heat Island Effect is more severe in Tier-I cities than in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
3.The NDMA has issued guidelines for worker protection during heatwaves.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C. 3 only
Explanation: Heatwaves usually occur from March to June, not June–September. The Urban Heat Island Effect is often worse in smaller cities due to poor infrastructure and lack of green space.

2. Which of the following are considered long-term strategies to mitigate urban heatwaves?
1.Urban greening
2.Expansion of water bodies
3.Installation of temporary water kiosks
4.Use of reflective materials in construction
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: B. 1, 2 and 4 only
Explanation: Water kiosks are short-term measures. The rest are long-term adaptations for urban heat management.

Mains

1. Heatwaves are becoming a serious socioeconomic challenge in India. Analyze their impact on vulnerable populations and suggest comprehensive policy responses.

2. Discuss the Urban Heat Island Effect in the context of rising temperatures in Indian cities. What measures can be implemented at the local level to mitigate its impact?

3. With reference to heat-induced job losses and productivity decline, evaluate India’s preparedness in safeguarding its workforce from climate-induced risks.

4. Monsoon Woes: The Impact of the Southwest and Northeast Monsoon on India’s Northeast – Environment

Why in News?

• In 2025, the Southwest Monsoon brought destructive rainfall, disproportionately impacting India’s northeastern states.
• The region experienced severe flooding, landslides, and disruption, despite the IMD predicting below-normal rainfall.

Key Geographical and Climatic Factors

1. Complex Terrain and River Systems

• Hilly and fragile terrain with fast-flowing rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak
• Frequent flooding and erosion during monsoon months
  ➤ June 2025: 10+ rivers in Assam breached danger levels; 3+ lakh affected in 19 districts

2. High Rainfall and Fragile Ecology

• Region receives some of India’s highest monsoon rainfall
• Even “below normal” monsoons cause significant damage
  ➤ 2025: Flash floods in Tripura and landslides in Sikkim despite weak forecasts
• Deforestation, slope instability, and poor drainage amplify risk

Understanding the Dual Monsoon Pattern

This dual exposure extends the rainy season and doubles the disaster risk.

Consequences of Dual Monsoon Exposure

1. Extended Vulnerability Period

• Continuous rains from June to December
  ➤ 2023: Flash floods in both July and November

2. Resource and Infrastructure Strain

• Relief camps and shelters used in June must be reused in October before repairs are completed
• Emergency services stretched, with budgetary and manpower shortfalls

3. Planning and Recovery Delays

• Repairs completed post-SW monsoon get damaged again during retreating monsoon
  ➤ 2022: Roads in Arunachal repaired in August were destroyed again by October

Why Infrastructure Development Lags in the Northeast

➤ Example: Arunachal Pradesh still lacks widespread rail connectivity

Government Initiatives

1. Strengthened Early Warning and Disaster Response

• NDRF deployment for floods and landslides
• IMD issues region-specific alerts
• Real-time flood monitoring in Brahmaputra Basin

2. Infrastructure Schemes

• NESIDS (North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme):
  • Flood protection embankments
  • All-weather roads
  • Small hydropower and renewable energy

3. NDMA Interventions

• Conducts mock drills, capacity building, and urban flood management plans
  ➤ Target cities: Gangtok, Guwahati

Way Forward: Long-Term Solutions

1. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

• Landslide-proof roads, flood-resistant housing
• Expand early warning systems across the Northeast

2. Coordinated Governance

• Create a regional disaster task force
  ➤ Joint operation between Assam, Arunachal, Meghalaya, etc.

3. Environmentally Sensitive Planning

• Curb deforestation, implement eco-sensitive zoning
• Promote community-based disaster preparedness

Summary

The Northeast region of India, due to its complex terrain, fragile ecology, and exposure to both Southwest and retreating monsoons, faces intensifying monsoon-related disasters like floods and landslides. Despite the forecast of weak rains in 2025, states like Assam, Sikkim, and Tripura faced destructive outcomes due to high rainfall variability and ecological degradation. Infrastructure development has lagged due to terrain, security challenges, and political neglect. While the government has launched targeted responses, climate-resilient infrastructure, coordinated planning, and ecological safeguards are essential to protect the region’s population and economy.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding the dual monsoon pattern in India’s Northeast:
1.The retreating monsoon occurs between October and December.
2.The Northeast region is affected only by the Southwest monsoon.
3.The Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon reaches the Northeast before other parts of India.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B. 1 and 3 only
Explanation: Statement 2 is incorrect — the region is affected by both monsoon phases.

2. Which of the following factors contribute to disaster vulnerability in Northeast India?
1.Complex river systems
2.High seismic activity
3.Dual monsoon exposure
4.Over-irrigation practices
Select the correct answer:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 3, and 4 only

Answer: A. 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation: Over-irrigation is not a listed concern in this context.

Mains

1. Discuss the implications of the dual monsoon system on the disaster management framework in Northeast India. What policy measures are needed to strengthen regional preparedness?

2. Why has infrastructure development in the northeastern region lagged behind the rest of India? Evaluate the geographical, political, and economic challenges.

3. Despite lower-than-normal rainfall forecasts, the Northeast often experiences severe monsoon-related disasters. Examine the role of terrain, ecology, and river systems in amplifying the impact.

5. NCDIR Findings on Diabetes and Hypertension Care in Public Health Facilities – Governance

Why in News?

• A recent ICMR–NCDIR study reveals that Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are better prepared to manage diabetes and hypertension compared to Sub-Centres, Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Sub-District Hospitals.
• The study highlights unequal preparedness and operational capacity across public health facilities in India.

About NCDIR (National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research)

markdown           
                   - Cancer  
                   - Diabetes  
                   - Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD)  
                   - Stroke                                                                  |

| Tech Integration | Uses advanced electronic and communication technologies for health data collection,
analysis, and software development |
| Collaborations | Partners with Ministry of Health, NGOs, and other public/private health entities for
robust surveillance and policy support |

Key Findings of the Study

1. Primary Health Centres (PHCs) – Better Prepared

• PHCs scored higher on infrastructure readiness, availability of drugs, trained personnel, and diagnostic tools for diabetes and hypertension care.
• Reflects the success of targeted interventions like:
  • Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres
  • National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS)

2. Sub-Centres and CHCs – Lag Behind

• These facilities often lack diagnostic tools, trained staff, and standard treatment protocols.
• Sub-district hospitals face infrastructure and manpower constraints, affecting continuity of chronic care.

3. Gaps in Chronic Disease Management

• Disparities in service quality reflect systemic challenges:
  • Uneven deployment of resources
  • Poor health infrastructure at the last mile
  • Limited access to continuous training for health workers

Significance of the Findings

• India is undergoing an epidemiological transition, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now accounting for over 60% of deaths.
• Timely detection and management of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension are critical to reducing:
  • Morbidity
  • Long-term healthcare costs
  • Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs)

Policy Implications

1. Strengthening Sub-Centres and CHCs

• Improve access to essential NCD diagnostic kits
• Deploy trained mid-level healthcare providers
• Expand telemedicine and e-health services

2. Health Infrastructure Investment

• Allocate more funds to primary-level infrastructure
• Integrate NCD care with maternal and child health services

3. Health Workforce Development

• Regular training of ANMs, ASHAs, and community health officers (CHOs) in NCD protocols

Government Initiatives Supporting NCD Care

Summary

The ICMR–NCDIR study underscores gaps in healthcare readiness for chronic disease management across India’s public health facilities. While Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are comparatively better equipped to handle diabetes and hypertension, Sub-Centres and CHCs lag due to poor infrastructure and lack of trained staff. Given the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, it is imperative to upgrade rural and remote health systems, train health workers, and integrate health data systems. The findings also reinforce the need for strengthening the last-mile delivery of preventive and curative services.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR):
1.It functions under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
2.It is headquartered in Bengaluru.
3.It focuses exclusively on communicable disease research.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B. 2 only
Explanation: NCDIR is under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, and it focuses on non-communicable diseases, not just communicable ones.

2. Which of the following government initiatives are associated with the management of non-communicable diseases in India?
1.Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres
2.National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS)
3.National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A. 1 and 2 only

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in managing non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. How can India strengthen its lower-tier public health infrastructure for chronic disease care?

2. Highlight the role of health informatics in improving disease surveillance and health system efficiency in India. Refer to the NCDIR’s initiatives in your answer.

3. Non-communicable diseases have become a major public health challenge in India. Evaluate the policy framework and institutional mechanisms in place to tackle this issue.

6. First-Person View (FPV) Drones: Strategic and Technological Overview – Defence & Security

Why in News?

• Ukraine has successfully deployed FPV drones in its military campaign, destroying over 40 Russian aircraft.
• This showcases the increasing role of autonomous and AI-powered drones in modern warfare and asymmetric conflict scenarios.

What are FPV Drones?

• First-Person View (FPV) Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) controlled via a real-time video feed from an onboard camera, offering a “pilot’s eye view” to the operator.
• These drones are equipped with AI, enhancing autonomy and precision.

Key Features and Technology

Operational Workflow

1. Pre-Mission Reconnaissance
   • Recon drones are deployed first to assess target zones.
2. Target Acquisition
   • Using visual data from recon, FPV drones are dispatched with high accuracy.
3. Engagement
   • Operator pilots the drone using first-person footage; strikes are conducted precisely.
4. Surveillance & Recovery
   • In search-and-rescue or intel-gathering missions, FPV drones offer tactical support.

Advantages of FPV Drones

• Cost-effective compared to traditional missile or airstrike systems
• Capable of deep strike operations in enemy territory
• Low radar visibility, suitable for covert missions
• AI-based autonomy reduces human error
• Useful in urban warfare and guerrilla tactics

Challenges & Limitations

Non-Military Applications

• Cinematography: Popular in action sports, movie shoots, and aerial filming
• Search and Rescue: Used in disaster zones for locating survivors
• Industrial Surveillance: Inspecting inaccessible structures like power lines and pipelines

Strategic Significance in Modern Warfare

• FPV drones signal a paradigm shift in combat operations, particularly for:
  • Asymmetric warfare
  • Decentralized combat
  • Budget-constrained militaries
• Offers a viable alternative to expensive manned operations or long-range missiles
• India has shown increasing interest in adapting drone tech for border surveillance, counterinsurgency, and disaster relief

Summary

First-Person View (FPV) drones represent a critical evolution in unmanned aerial warfare, integrating AI, real-time video, and autonomous navigation. Their effectiveness in Ukraine’s battlefield highlights their strategic value in low-cost, high-precision operations, particularly in short-range strike missions. Despite limitations such as short range and limited operator visibility, their flexibility, stealth, and affordability make them a powerful tool for both military and civilian applications. The global rise in drone warfare necessitates India to invest in indigenous drone ecosystems, develop counter-drone technologies, and frame clear operational protocols for both domestic and international contexts.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements about First-Person View (FPV) drones:
1.They depend entirely on GPS signals for navigation.
2.They provide a real-time video feed from the drone’s perspective.
3.They are capable of autonomous navigation using AI.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation: FPV drones are capable of operating without GPS using SmartPilot and LiDAR systems.

2. Which of the following technologies is/are commonly used in FPV drones?
1.LiDAR
2.Artificial Intelligence
3.Radar Altimeters
4.SmartPilot System
Select the correct answer:
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: A. 1, 2 and 4 only

Mains

1. Discuss the role of FPV drones in modern asymmetric warfare. What lessons can India draw from recent global conflicts in adopting such technologies?

2. Evaluate the benefits and challenges of using AI-powered drones in India’s defense preparedness. How can India balance technological advancement with operational safety?

3. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are redefining combat strategies. Examine India’s current UAV capabilities and suggest a roadmap for drone innovation and regulation.

7. SHUKR Gene in Flowering Plants: Evolution, Function, and Climate Adaptation – Science and Technology

Why in News?

• Recent research by CSIR–CCMB, Hyderabad has identified the SHUKR gene, which plays a crucial role in pollen development in flowering plants.
• The discovery helps explain Darwin’s “abominable mystery”—the sudden appearance and rapid diversification of flowering plants ~130 million years ago.

About the SHUKR Gene

Plant Reproduction and the Sporophyte Phase

• In flowering plants, the sporophyte is the dominant diploid phase of the plant life cycle.
• SHUKR functions specifically during this phase to ensure:
  • Formation of viable pollen
  • Fertility and reproductive success
  • Ability to pass on genes to the next generation

Interaction with F-box Genes

• F-box genes are involved in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, where they help remove old or damaged proteins.
• SHUKR works alongside F-box genes to:
  • Promote cellular efficiency
  • Support rapid growth and development of reproductive structures (pollen)
  • Adapt quickly to climate variability

Significance of the Discovery

1. Evolutionary Insight: Solving Darwin’s “Abominable Mystery”

• Charles Darwin was baffled by the rapid rise and diversification of angiosperms (flowering plants).
• SHUKR provides a genetic explanation: It evolved quickly and gave flowering plants a reproductive and adaptive advantage, explaining their explosive evolutionary success.

2. Climate-Resilient Agriculture

• Understanding SHUKR and related gene functions could help in:
  • Breeding crops with pollen tolerance to extreme heat, drought, and cold
  • Ensuring food security amid climate change
  • Enhancing plant reproductive success even in harsh environments

Back2Basics: Darwin’s “Abominable Mystery”

Summary

The SHUKR gene, discovered in Arabidopsis thaliana, plays a vital role in pollen development in flowering plants and offers a genetic lens into how angiosperms rapidly diversified. Active during the sporophyte phase, SHUKR enhances reproductive efficiency and environmental adaptability by working with F-box genes to manage cellular proteins. The gene’s evolutionary trajectory suggests it conferred an adaptive edge to early flowering plants, helping resolve Darwin’s historic puzzle. Moreover, SHUKR holds potential for creating climate-resilient crops, making it significant not only for evolutionary biology but also for agricultural innovation.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding the SHUKR gene:
1.It is active during the gametophyte phase of a plant’s life cycle.
2.It supports pollen formation by interacting with F-box genes.
3.It was first discovered in maize.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Answer: A. 2 only
Explanation: SHUKR is active in the sporophyte, not gametophyte; it was first identified in Arabidopsis thaliana, not maize.

2. Which of the following best explains the significance of the SHUKR gene in plant evolution?
A. It explains the evolution of photosynthesis in plants.
B. It supports gradual speciation in gymnosperms.
C. It contributes to the adaptive reproductive success of flowering plants.
D. It regulates leaf pigmentation for photoperiod response.

Answer: C. It contributes to the adaptive reproductive success of flowering plants.

Mains

1. The discovery of the SHUKR gene provides important insight into both evolutionary biology and climate-resilient agriculture. Discuss its role and potential applications.

2. Darwin described the rise of flowering plants as an “abominable mystery.” How does the SHUKR gene contribute to solving this puzzle from a modern scientific perspective?

3. Examine the role of gene-based research in advancing agricultural resilience in the context of climate change. Use the example of the SHUKR gene.