Daily Current Affairs - 10th November 2025

If you missed Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP) | Sept - Oct 2025, read it here.

Aditya-L1 Mission Tracks Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs)

1. Recently, scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), in collaboration with NASA, used data from the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) onboard Aditya-L1 to track a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME).

2. They successfully estimated key parameters of the CME using this data.

3. This marks the first-ever visible-light spectroscopic observation of a CME in history.

   • Spectroscopic observation means analyzing light from an object to understand its composition, motion, and physical properties.

4. Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun’s corona, the outermost layer of the solar atmosphere.

5. Such CMEs can cause geomagnetic storms that affect satellites, communication systems, and power grids on Earth.

6. Hence, tracking and studying CMEs is crucial for space weather prediction and mitigation.

About the Aditya-L1 Mission

1. Aditya-L1 is India’s first dedicated solar mission, launched by PSLV-C57 in 2023.

2. The mission is designed to study the Sun and its impact on space weather around Earth.

3. It has a planned mission lifespan of 5 years.

Mission Orbit and Position

1. The spacecraft is placed in a halo orbit around the Lagrange Point 1 (L1) of the Sun–Earth system.

2. The L1 point lies about 1.5 million km from Earth, where the gravitational pull of the Sun and Earth balances the centripetal force required for a small object to move with them.

3. Maintaining a spacecraft at L1 requires minimal fuel, as it remains in a stable gravitational equilibrium.

4. A halo orbit is a three-dimensional periodic orbit around such a point, allowing continuous observation of the Sun without Earth’s shadow interference.

Objectives of the Mission

1. Aditya-L1 aims to understand coronal heating (why the Sun’s corona is hotter than its surface) and solar wind acceleration.

2. It also seeks to study solar flares and their influence on near-Earth space weather.

3. Another objective is to examine solar wind distribution and temperature anisotropy—the variation of plasma temperature in different directions.

Scientific Payloads

1. Aditya-L1 carries 7 scientific payloads to study different layers of the Sun.

2. These payloads are categorized as Remote Sensing Payloads and In-situ Payloads.

   • Remote Sensing Payloads like VELC and the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) observe the Sun directly.

   • In-situ Payloads like the Aditya Solar Wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX) measure particles and magnetic fields around the spacecraft’s location.

   • Among these, VELC has played a crucial role in observing and analyzing the CME event.

Scientific Significance

1. The successful observation of CME parameters by VELC showcases India’s growing capability in solar spectroscopy and space weather research.

2. This advancement helps improve the forecasting of solar storms, which can impact satellite operations, navigation systems, and astronaut safety.

Other Major Solar Missions (Global Context)

1. The Hinotori (ASTRO-A) mission launched by Japan in the 1980s was one of the earliest dedicated solar observation missions.

2. The Parker Solar Probe, launched by the United States in 2018, became the first spacecraft to “touch” the Sun by entering its outer atmosphere.

3. The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO), jointly launched by NASA and ESA, remains the longest-lived Sun-watching satellite in operation.

DNA’s Double-Helix Structure

1. James Watson, the Nobel laureate and one of the scientists co-credited with discovering the DNA double-helix structure, has died recently.

2. His discovery, along with Francis Crick, marked a turning point in molecular biology and deepened our understanding of genetic inheritance.

3. The discovery explained how genetic information is stored, copied, and transmitted within living organisms.

About the Double-Helix Structure

1. The term “Double Helix” is used to describe the three-dimensional shape of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid), the hereditary molecule that carries genetic information.

   • A helix refers to a spiral-shaped structure, and a double helix means two intertwined helical strands.

2. The DNA molecule consists of two long strands that are twisted around each other like a spiral staircase.

3. These two strands are connected in the center by hydrogen bonds, which act like rungs holding the structure together.

   • Hydrogen bonds are weak chemical bonds that form between specific nitrogenous bases on opposite strands.

4. The nitrogenous bases present in DNA are Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Guanine (G), and Cytosine (C).

5. These bases follow a complementary base-pairing rule — Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T), and Guanine (G) pairs with Cytosine (C).

6. This specific base pairing ensures that genetic information can be accurately copied during DNA replication.

7. The sequence of bases along the DNA strands forms the genetic code, which determines the traits and functions of living organisms.

Scientific Significance

1. The double-helix model, proposed in 1953, revealed how DNA replicates and how genetic instructions are encoded.

2. This discovery laid the foundation for modern genetics, biotechnology, and genomic research.

3. Understanding the structure of DNA also opened pathways for advances in medicine, forensic science, and genetic engineering.

Montreal Protocol and the Thirty-Seventh Meeting (MOP-37)

1. The Thirty-Seventh Meeting of the Parties (MOP-37) to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer has recently concluded.

2. The meeting brought together member countries, scientists, and policymakers to review progress in protecting the ozone layer.

3. It highlighted discrepancies between reported and measured data on Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions.

4. The meeting also noted a lack of sufficient atmospheric monitoring stations in many regions, which affects the accuracy of emission tracking.

5. These discussions emphasized the need for better monitoring and transparency to ensure effective implementation of the protocol.

About the Montreal Protocol

1. The Montreal Protocol was signed in 1987 as a global legally binding treaty.

2. It aims to eliminate the production and consumption of Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS).

   • Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS) are chemicals that damage the ozone layer, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons.

   • The ozone layer is a protective shield in Earth’s stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

3. The Montreal Protocol is implemented under the Vienna Convention, which was adopted in 1985 to protect the ozone layer through international cooperation.

Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol

1. The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol was adopted in 2016.

2. It focuses on the phase-down of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are non-ozone-depleting substances but potent greenhouse gases contributing to global warming.

3. Under this amendment, countries agreed to gradually reduce HFC production and consumption in a phased manner.

4. The amendment represents a major step in linking ozone protection with climate action.

Significance and Global Impact

1. The Montreal Protocol is considered one of the most successful environmental treaties in history.

2. It has led to the gradual recovery of the ozone layer, demonstrating the effectiveness of global cooperation.

3. The protocol also provides a model for tackling climate change through science-based international agreements.

Minamata Convention Agrees to End Use of Dental Amalgam by 2034

1. The Sixth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-6) to the Minamata Convention on Mercury was recently held in Geneva.

2. During this meeting, member countries agreed to phase out the use of dental amalgam by 2034.

   • Dental amalgam is a mercury-based filling material used in dentistry for tooth restoration.

3. The decision aims to reduce global mercury pollution and protect human health and the environment.

4. The meeting also decided to step up global efforts to eliminate mercury-added skin-lightening products, which pose serious health risks.

About Mercury (Hg)

1. Mercury (chemical symbol Hg) is a naturally occurring heavy metal and a silvery-white transition element.

2. It has an atomic number of 80 in the periodic table.

3. Mercury is ductile (can be drawn into wires) and malleable (can be beaten into sheets).

4. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity.

5. It is the only common metal that remains liquid at room temperature, making it unique among metals.

Sources of Mercury Emissions

Mercury is released from both natural sources and anthropogenic (human-made) sources.

1. Natural sources include volcanic eruptions and emissions from the ocean.

2. Anthropogenic sources include mining activities (especially gold mining), fossil fuel combustion, and metal and cement production.

Uses of Mercury

1. Historically, mercury was used in thermometers, barometers, and fluorescent lighting.

2. It was also used in certain batteries and dental amalgams for tooth fillings.

Toxicity and Environmental Impact of Mercury

1. Mercury released into the air eventually settles into water or land, where it undergoes chemical transformation.

2. Certain microorganisms can convert mercury into methylmercury, a highly toxic organic compound.

3. Methylmercury tends to accumulate in fish, shellfish, and animals that eat fish, a process known as bioaccumulation.

4. Even small amounts of mercury exposure can be highly toxic to humans.

5. It can damage the nervous system, kidneys, skin, eyes, digestive system, and immune system.

About the Minamata Convention on Mercury

1. The Minamata Convention on Mercury is a global legally binding treaty adopted in 2013.

2. The convention entered into force in 2017 to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of mercury.

3. It is named after Minamata Bay in Japan, where severe mercury poisoning occurred in the mid-20th century due to industrial discharge.

4. The Minamata tragedy caused neurological and developmental disorders among the affected population and became a landmark case of industrial pollution.

5. The convention currently has 153 Parties, including India, demonstrating widespread global participation.

6. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) serves as the Secretariat of the convention.

7. The Secretariat supports implementation, capacity building, and helps countries meet their treaty obligations.

Significance of COP-6 Decisions

1. The COP-6 decision to phase out dental amalgam by 2034 marks a major step toward a mercury-free future.

2. The move also aligns with global efforts to protect public health and prevent environmental contamination.

3. Strengthened commitments to eliminate mercury-added products reinforce the Minamata Convention’s core objective of reducing mercury pollution worldwide.

Centre Notifies ‘Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)’ Rules

1. The Central Government has recently notified the ‘Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)’ Rules.

2. The rules aim to realize the vision of a prosperous and inclusive Blue Economy.

   • A Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ocean ecosystem health.

3. These rules seek to unlock the untapped potential of India’s 11,099 km-long coastline and over 23 lakh sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

4. Special focus is given to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep Islands, which together account for 49% of India’s EEZ.

Key Highlights of the New Rules

1. Cooperatives and Community-Led Models

• The rules give exclusive priority to Fishermen Cooperative Societies and Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) for deep-sea fishing operations.

• This ensures community participation and inclusive growth in the marine sector.

• The rules introduce the ‘Mother-and-Child Vessel’ concept, involving large mother vessels supported by smaller child boats.

• This concept enables mid-sea transshipment, where catch can be collected and transported without returning to the shore frequently.

2. Comprehensive Support and Capacity Building

• The government will provide training programs and capacity-building initiatives across the entire fisheries value chain.

• Fishers will get access to easy and affordable credit through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

• Additional financial support will be available via the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF).

3. Promoting Sustainable Fishing and Mariculture

• The rules focus on sustainable fishing practices to protect marine biodiversity.

• Harmful fishing practices such as LED light fishing, pair trawling, and bull trawling are to be curbed strictly.

• Fisheries Management Plans will be prepared in consultation with state governments to help restore declining fish stocks.

• The rules encourage mariculture — the cultivation of marine organisms in the open ocean — as an alternate livelihood for coastal communities.

• Sea-cage farming (fish rearing in floating cages) and seaweed cultivation will be promoted as part of sustainable mariculture practices.

4. Other Regulatory and Administrative Provisions

• Access passes for mechanized and large-sized motorized vessels will be issued through the online ReALCRaft portal.

• Small fishers are exempted from this online pass requirement to ensure ease of operation.

• Foreign vessels are not permitted to operate within India’s EEZ under these rules.

• Fish resources originating from the Indian EEZ will be formally recognized as ‘Indian origin’ to ensure traceability and national ownership.

About Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

1. The concept of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) was established under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

2. The UNCLOS is an international treaty that defines maritime zones and the rights of coastal states over marine resources.

3. An EEZ extends up to 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 km) from a country’s coastline into the ocean.

4. Within this zone, the coastal nation holds exclusive rights to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage all natural resources—both living (fish, marine life) and non-living (oil, gas, minerals).

Significance of the New Rules

1. The new EEZ rules mark a major policy step toward sustainable marine resource utilization.

2. They aim to balance economic growth with ecological conservation, ensuring long-term livelihood security for India’s coastal communities.

3. By empowering local cooperatives and encouraging sustainable fishing, the rules support the government’s goal of a vibrant and inclusive Blue Economy.

ICAR Study on Factors Impacting Soil Organic Carbon (SOC)

1. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has conducted a comprehensive study to assess factors influencing Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) across different regions of India.

2. Scientists have developed an agro-ecological base map to analyze the impact of fertilizer use, cropping systems, and environmental factors on SOC levels.

3. This study aims to support sustainable soil management and climate-resilient agriculture.

About Soil Organic Carbon (SOC)

1. Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) is the carbon component of organic matter present in the soil.

2. It constitutes approximately 60% of total organic matter in the soil.

3. SOC includes all living and dead organic materials, such as plant residues, soil organisms, and decomposed animal materials.

4. It does not include fresh, undecomposed plant material lying on the soil surface.

5. The carbon stored in soil plays a vital role in soil fertility, water retention, and climate regulation.

Key Findings of the ICAR Study

1. Heat Absorption and Temperature Relation

• Higher carbon concentration in soil increases its ability to absorb heat.

• The study found that SOC is negatively correlated with temperature, meaning that as temperature rises, SOC levels decline.

2. Impact of Fertilizer Application

• Imbalanced fertilizer use was identified as a major factor contributing to SOC decline.

• In Haryana, Punjab, and parts of Western Uttar Pradesh, excessive dependence on urea and phosphorus-based fertilizers has led to a reduction in organic carbon content.

• Balanced nutrient management is essential to maintain soil health and carbon levels.

3. Effect of Cropping Systems

• Cropping patterns significantly influence SOC accumulation in soils.

• Rice-based and pulse-based cropping systems were found to contribute to higher organic carbon content in the soil.

• In contrast, wheat and coarse-grain-based systems tend to have lower SOC levels.

4. Relationship with Micronutrients

• The study observed that soils with low SOC content often show a higher deficiency of micronutrients.

• Conversely, soils rich in SOC tend to have adequate levels of micronutrients, supporting healthier crop growth.

5. Influence of Elevation

• Land elevation was found to have a positive correlation with SOC.

• Higher-elevation regions generally show greater SOC content, while low-lying areas have comparatively less SOC.

Recommendations of the ICAR Study

1. The study recommends promoting extensive plantation and crop cover across all types of soils.

2. Keeping soil continuously covered with vegetation helps in preventing carbon loss and enhancing organic matter.

3. Governments should facilitate carbon credit systems to incentivize farmers who successfully trap more carbon dioxide and convert it into Soil Organic Carbon.

4. For soils with very low carbon content, carbon sequestration should be actively encouraged.

5. Carbon sequestration refers to the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide in soil and vegetation.

6. The government should promote cropping pattern diversification and sustainable practices to enhance carbon storage capacity in degraded soils.

Significance of the Study

1. The ICAR study provides a scientific foundation for improving soil fertility and mitigating climate change impacts.

2. By understanding the spatial variations of SOC, policymakers can design region-specific strategies for soil restoration.

3. The findings align with India’s broader goals of sustainable agriculture, carbon neutrality, and environmental conservation.

Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 Marks 30 Years of Implementation

1. The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 has completed 30 years of implementation in 2025.

2. The Act came into effect on November 9, 1995, to institutionalize free and fair access to justice for all.

3. Since then, November 9 has been observed annually as National Legal Services Day.

4. The day celebrates India’s commitment to the constitutional right of equal justice, as guaranteed under Article 39A of the Constitution.

About the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987

1. The Act was enacted to establish legal aid institutions across the country.

2. Its primary objective is to ensure that no citizen is denied justice due to economic or social barriers.

3. The Act aims to provide free legal services to weaker and disadvantaged sections of society.

Institutional Framework under the Act

The Act establishes a three-tier structure for delivering legal services—National, State, and District levels.

a) National Level

• At the national level, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) serves as the apex body.

• The Chief Justice of India (CJI) acts as the Patron-in-Chief of NALSA.

• NALSA formulates policies and programs to ensure uniform implementation of legal aid across the country.

b) State Level

• Each state has a State Legal Services Authority (SLSA) to oversee the implementation at the state level.

• The Chief Justice of the High Court serves as the Patron-in-Chief of the SLSA.

c) District Level

• At the district level, District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) function to provide legal aid to citizens.

• Each DLSA is headed by the District Judge of the concerned district.

Eligibility for Free Legal Aid

1. The Act defines specific categories of persons eligible for free legal services.

2. Eligible beneficiaries include members of SC/ST communities, women, children, and victims of trafficking or natural disasters.

3. It also covers the mentally ill, persons with disabilities, industrial workmen, and persons in custody (including prisons or protective homes).

4. Individuals with annual income below ₹5 lakh are eligible for free legal aid before the Supreme Court.

5. For other cases, the income threshold varies between ₹1 lakh and ₹3 lakh, as decided by individual State Governments.

6. The eligibility of senior citizens for free legal aid depends on rules framed by respective State Governments.

Legal Aid Funds

1. The Act provides for the creation of Legal Aid Funds at three levels — National, State, and District.

2. These funds are used to support legal aid activities, including representation, awareness, and training.

Establishment of Lok Adalats

1. The Act also mandates the establishment of Lok Adalats as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism.

2. Lok Adalats help in amicably settling disputes, including pre-litigation matters, without formal court procedures.

3. This system ensures speedy, cost-effective, and consensus-based justice delivery.

Other Initiatives for Strengthening Legal Aid

1. Legal Aid Defense Counsel System (LADCS)

• The LADCS, implemented under NALSA, provides free criminal defense services to the needy.

2. DISHA Scheme (Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice)

• The DISHA Scheme focuses on digital access to legal services, pro bono (free) legal assistance, and pre-litigation support.

3. Legal Literacy and Legal Awareness Programme (LLLAP)

• The LLLAP aims to educate citizens about their legal rights and remedies through awareness drives and community programs.

Significance of the Act

1. The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 is a cornerstone of India’s legal aid movement.

2. It ensures that justice remains accessible, affordable, and equitable for every individual, regardless of economic status.

3. By completing 30 years of implementation, the Act reaffirms India’s commitment to the principle of “Access to Justice for All.”

Functional Foods and Smart Proteins: Ensuring India’s Nutritional Security

1. Functional foods and smart proteins have recently been highlighted in the news in the context of India’s nutritional security.

2. These emerging food technologies aim to enhance nutritional quality and reduce dependence on conventional food sources.

3. They represent the next generation of food innovation, combining health, sustainability, and biotechnology.

What are Functional Foods?

1. Functional foods are those that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

2. They can occur naturally or be developed through advanced food technologies.

3. Technologies used in developing functional foods include nutrigenomics, bio-fortification, 3D food printing, and bioprocessing.

   • Nutrigenomics is the science that studies how nutrition interacts with genes to influence health and disease outcomes.

   • Bio-fortification refers to enhancing the nutritional value of crops by increasing the content of essential vitamins and minerals during plant growth.

   • 3D food printing uses additive manufacturing techniques to create food with customized shapes and nutrient profiles.

   • Bioprocessing involves using microorganisms or enzymes to improve food texture, flavor, or nutrient content.

     • Examples of functional foods include vitamin-enriched rice, omega-3-fortified milk, and probiotic yoghurt.

       • Probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms that support gut health and digestion.

4. Such foods help in preventing nutrition-related diseases and promoting overall well-being.

What are Smart Proteins?

14. Smart proteins are sustainably sourced proteins developed using biotechnological processes.

15. They aim to reduce reliance on conventional animal-based protein production like meat and dairy farming.

16. Smart proteins are produced through innovative methods such as plant-based protein extraction, microbial fermentation, and cell cultivation.

17. Plant-based proteins are derived from plants and are designed to mimic the taste, texture, and nutrition of animal meat and dairy products.

18. Fermentation-derived proteins are obtained by using microorganisms to produce specific proteins, such as dairy or egg substitutes.

19. Cultivated meat, also called lab-grown or cell-based meat, is produced by culturing animal cells in controlled laboratory conditions without slaughtering animals.

20. These proteins are environmentally friendly, as they consume less water and land and produce lower greenhouse gas emissions.

21. Smart proteins offer a sustainable alternative to meet the growing global protein demand while addressing climate and ethical concerns.

Significance for India’s Nutritional Security

22. The development of functional foods and smart proteins is vital to address malnutrition and dietary deficiencies in India.

23. They also support the Blue Economy and Bio-Economy goals by promoting innovation-driven sustainable food systems.

24. Together, these technologies have the potential to strengthen India’s food security, improve public health, and contribute to climate-resilient nutrition strategies.

Biochemical Markers Identified for Early Detection of Kidney Complications in Diabetic Patients

1. Indian researchers have recently identified biochemical markers in the blood that could help in the early detection of kidney complications among diabetic patients.

2. These findings are significant for improving diagnosis and management of diabetic nephropathy, a common chronic kidney disorder caused by prolonged diabetes.

About Biochemical Markers

1. Biochemical markers are small molecules produced in the body during various metabolic processes.

2. These molecules can include sugars, amino acids, and lipids, which are naturally formed as part of the body’s normal biochemical reactions.

3. Doctors use these biochemical markers as diagnostic indicators to assess disease risks, organ function, or metabolic imbalances.

   • For example, cholesterol levels in the blood are commonly measured as a biochemical marker to assess the risk of heart diseases.

Relevance to Kidney Complications in Diabetic Patients

1. In diabetic individuals, specific biochemical markers in the blood can signal the onset of kidney damage much before clinical symptoms appear.

2. The identified markers include arabitol, myo-inositol, ribothymidine, and a toxin-like compound called 2PY (2-pyridone).

3. Each of these molecules reflects alterations in metabolic pathways linked to renal (kidney) dysfunction under diabetic conditions.

4. Arabitol and myo-inositol are sugar alcohols involved in energy metabolism, whose elevated levels may indicate metabolic stress on kidney cells.

5. Ribothymidine is a modified nucleoside derived from RNA metabolism and may act as a marker of cellular turnover or damage.

6. The compound 2PY, considered toxin-like, accumulates when kidney filtration efficiency declines, signaling potential renal impairment.

Significance of the Discovery

1. Identification of these biochemical markers enables early screening and prevention of kidney-related complications in diabetic patients.

2. Early detection helps in timely clinical interventions, reducing the risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

3. The study also contributes to the development of personalized medicine, where treatment can be tailored based on individual biochemical profiles.

Molasses Export Duty Reduction

The Union Government has recently decided to remove 50% export duty on molasses to boost trade and domestic industry.

About Molasses

1. Molasses is a byproduct of the refinement processes of sugar beet and sugarcane.

2. It appears as a dense, viscous liquid with a dark brown tint, rich in sugars and containing a small percentage of water.

3. Depending on the region, molasses is known by different names such as exhausted honey or poor honey.

4. Molasses is nutrient-rich, containing calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium, while having calories similar to other liquid sugars like honey.

Applications of Molasses

1. It is widely used in beverage production, contributing to flavor and fermentation.

2. Molasses is a key input in ethanol production, serving as a fermentable sugar source.

3. It is also utilized in the manufacture of fertilizers, providing organic nutrients for soil enrichment.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Policy

The Government is set to announce a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) policy to promote cleaner air transport.

About Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

1. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is an alternative aviation fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks that can reduce emissions from air transportation.

2. SAF can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuels, helping combat climate change.

3. Common sources of SAF include waste fats, oils, and greases, municipal solid waste, and agricultural and forestry residues.

Benefits of SAF

1. SAF is compatible with existing aircraft engines and infrastructure, avoiding major modifications.

2. It produces lesser greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants compared to conventional jet fuel, making it an environmentally sustainable alternative. 

Malabar Naval Exercise

1. INS Sahyadri, an Indian Navy warship, is participating in the 29th edition of the Malabar naval exercise.

2. The exercise is taking place in Guam, a strategic US military base located in the western Pacific Ocean.

3. The primary aim of the Malabar exercise is to strengthen cooperation and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

4. The participating countries include India, Australia, Japan, and the United States of America.

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