What is Designer Rice and how is it different from normal rice?

Designer rice is a high-protein, low glycemic index (GI) innovation developed by scientists at CSIR – National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram. It contains three times the protein of normal rice and helps manage diabetes due to its low GI. Unlike genetically modified crops, this rice is created using food-processing technology. Broken rice grains are ground into flour and blended with protein and micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 before being reformed into rice-like grains.

What was the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) developed by ISRO?

The Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) was developed by ISRO to increase payload capacity to 150 kg, which was three times that of SLV-3, for Low Earth Orbit missions. It was a 24-meter tall, five-stage, all-solid propellant vehicle with a lift-off weight of 40 tonnes. ASLV helped validate key technologies such as strap-on boosters, inertial navigation, bulbous heat shields, vertical integration, and closed-loop guidance, paving the way for future launch vehicles like PSLV.

What is Keytruda and how does it work?

Keytruda is the brand name of pembrolizumab, an immunotherapy drug manufactured by Merck & Co (MSD) for treating various cancers. It belongs to a class of drugs known as checkpoint inhibitors. These drugs remove the immune system's 'brakes,' allowing T-cells to attack cancer cells effectively. Keytruda uses the body's immune system to fight cancer and is widely used in oncology treatments.

What are Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and why are they important?

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are chemicals composed of carbon, hydrogen, and fluorine. They do not contain chlorine and therefore do not directly damage the stratospheric ozone layer. HFCs are considered alternatives to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). However, they are potent greenhouse gases. The Government of India has committed to gradually phasing down HFC production as part of international climate agreements.

What is the Kessler Syndrome in outer space?

The Kessler Syndrome refers to a scenario in outer space where collisions between satellites or space debris generate even more debris, increasing the likelihood of further collisions. This cascading effect can make certain orbits unusable due to excessive debris. Space junk travels at extremely high speeds—often exceeding 17,500 mph—and even small fragments can cause significant damage to satellites and spacecraft.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - Science & Tech. - 22nd April 2026

Devesh
3 days ago
1 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Test your UPSC CSE 2026 preparation with today’s Science & Technology (Every wednesday) Quiz — covering designer rice, Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), Keytrud, Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), Kessler Syndrome and more.

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