Erythrulose
Context: Astronomers have detected erythrulose, a true sugar molecule, in interstellar space for the first time, offering new clues to the origin of life.
- The molecule was detected using the Yebes 40-metre and IRAM 30-metre radio telescopes in Spain.
About Erythrulose
- Erythrulose is a four-carbon monosaccharide (simple sugar) detected in the interstellar molecular cloud G+0.693−0.027, about 26,700 light-years from Earth near the Milky Way’s centre.
- It is the first true sugar molecule discovered in interstellar space.
- Key Features
- Chemical Nature: Erythrulose is a four-carbon monosaccharide, unlike previously detected complex organic molecules found in meteorites and asteroids.
- Abundance in Space: Scientists found erythrulose to be at least eight times more abundant than comparable three-carbon sugars, challenging existing theories of interstellar chemical evolution.
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Sugar as Precursor of Life
- Prebiotic Importance: Erythrulose is a chemical precursor of Threose Nucleic Acid (TNA), a molecule considered a possible predecessor of RNA and DNA.
- It provides evidence that essential organic molecules can form naturally in interstellar space, supporting theories of chemical evolution before life emerged.
- Origin of Life on Earth: Scientists estimate that millions of tonnes of space-borne sugars may have reached Earth during the Late Heavy Bombardment (4.1–3.8 billion years ago), supplying ingredients for early life.
- Implications for Astrobiology: The discovery strengthens the possibility that life’s building blocks may exist throughout the galaxy, increasing the prospects for life beyond Earth.
About Interstellar Medium (ISM)
- The Interstellar Medium (ISM) is the matter and radiation occupying the space between stars within a galaxy, serving as the material reservoir for stellar evolution.
- Composition: ISM consists primarily of gas (about 99% of its mass) mainly hydrogen and helium along with interstellar dust, cosmic rays, and magnetic fields.
- Phases
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- Cold Phase: Dense molecular clouds where new stars and planetary systems form.
- Warm Phase: Diffuse, partially ionized gas surrounding stars.
- Hot Phase: Highly ionized, low-density gas produced by supernova explosions.
- Significance: The ISM drives the galactic recycling process, supplying material for star formation while receiving chemically enriched matter from dying stars, thereby shaping the evolution of galaxies.
Paraquat Dichloride
Context: The Union Government has initiated a nationwide ban on Paraquat Dichloride, citing its severe health risks and lack of a specific antidote.
- India has joined over 70 countries that have prohibited or severely restricted its use.
- The notice comes on the back of a series of bans by different States, including most recently by Andhra Pradesh, and earlier by Telangana, Odisha and Kerala.
Basis of Ban : Section 27, Insecticides Act, 1968
- Risk to Public Safety: The Central Government may ban or restrict an insecticide if scientific evidence or poisoning incidents establish that it poses an unacceptable risk to human or animal health.
- Registration Violations: An insecticide may be prohibited if it is misbranded or manufactured, sold, or used in violation of the conditions specified in its registration
About Paraquat Dichloride
- Paraquat Dichloride is a highly toxic, non-selective contact herbicide used to control weeds before sowing or after harvesting.
- Farmers value it for its rapid action and effectiveness against a wide range of weeds.
- Composition: Paraquat Dichloride belongs to the bipyridyl group of herbicides.
- It acts by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) that rapidly destroy green plant tissues upon contact.
Health and Environmental Impact
- Human Toxicity: Paraquat Dichloride is extremely poisonous, and ingestion can cause irreversible damage to the lungs, kidneys and liver, often leading to death.
- No Specific Antidote: There is no proven antidote for paraquat poisoning, making timely treatment difficult.
- Environmental Impact: Excessive use contaminates soil and water, harms non-target organisms, and can adversely affect biodiversity and ecosystem health.
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Trial in Absentia
Context: The NIA is expected to seek a trial in absentia against Hafiz Saeed under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Pahalgam terror attack case.
About Trial in Absentia
- A trial in absentia is a criminal trial conducted without the physical presence of the accused.
- Legal Provision: It is provided under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
- Applicability:
- It applies only to an accused declared a “proclaimed offender” under Section 84 of the BNSS.
- Under Section 84(4): If a person accused of an offence punishable with:
- Imprisonment of 10+ years, OR
- Life imprisonment, OR
- Death
- Purpose
- It prevents prolonged delays in criminal proceedings caused by absconding accused persons.
- It enables courts to continue trials while balancing the interests of justice and victims’ rights.
- Procedural Safeguards
- Arrest Warrants and Public Notice: The court must issue two consecutive arrest warrants at least 30 days apart and publish a public notice giving the accused 30 days to appear.
- Opportunity to Appear: The trial can begin only 90 days after framing of charges, ensuring adequate opportunity for the accused to appear before the court.
- Right to Legal Representation: If the accused has no lawyer, the court must appoint a State-funded defence counsel to ensure a fair trial.
- Protection of Fair Trial: Witness testimony may be recorded through audio-visual electronic means, and if the accused is later apprehended, the court may permit cross-examination of witnesses in the interest of justice.
Jodhpuri Mojari Gets GI Tag
Context: The Centre has granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to the Jodhpuri Mojari.
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About Jodhpuri Mojari
- Origin: It is a traditional handcrafted leather footwear originating from Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
- Royal Patronage: Once patronised by Rajput royalty, later adopted by nomadic and farming communities.
- Crafting Community: Made mainly by the Jinagar (Jingar) community, traditionally a community of saddle and leather sheath makers.
- Distinctive Features: Known for handcrafted leather, intricate embroidery, and customised designs.
- Domestic Footwear Market: Jodhpuri Mojari sales in India are valued at around ₹100 crore.
- Export Market: Jodhpuri Mojari exports are valued at around ₹10 crore annually.
15 Jul 2026
