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MODERN GURUKUL FOR CIVIL SERVICE
TSPSC G1|S&T BY VISHNU SIR
SECTION – I CHAPTER – 01
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Section 1
The role and impact of Science and Technology.
Unit 1
Classical and Emerging areas of Science & Technology : Value addition by Science &
Technology, Current Science & Technology developments in India and importance of
Science & Technology as an engine for National Development ; Industrial development
& Urbanization.
Science:
Science is the systematic study of the natural world and its phenomena, based on
empirical evidence, observation, experimentation, and rational analysis.
Technology:
Technology is the application of scientific knowledge, techniques, and tools to solve
practical problems, enhance human capabilities, and improve the quality of life.
Value addition by Science & Technology
Science and technology have immensely contributed to value addition across various
sectors, enhancing productivity, efficiency, and innovation.
• Agriculture: Improved Crop Yields, Precision Farming, Sustainable Practices.
The global precision agriculture market is expected to reach USD 43.4 billion by
2025.
• Healthcare: Medical Advancements, Pharmaceuticals, Telemedicine.
Indian pharmaceutical industry is the world's 13th largest by value and third
largest in the world by volume
• Industry and Manufacturing: Automation and Robotics, 3D Printing, Materials
Science.
3D Printing prosthetics, dental implants, surgical guides
• Information Technology: Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity.
Amazon Web Services, IBM Cloud, Dropbox etc.,
• Energy: Renewable Energy, Energy Storage, Smart Grids.
lithium-ion batteries, Zinc-based batteries.
India stands 4th globally in Renewable Energy Installed Capacity, 4th in Wind
Power capacity and 5th in Solar Power capacity.
• Transportation: Electric Vehicles (EVs), Autonomous Vehicles, High-Speed Rail.
The new EV policy aligns with India's climate goals of reducing emissions
intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
• Communication: Internet and Connectivity, Mobile Technology, Satellite
Technology.
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BharatNet Project seeks to provide affordable broadband connectivity of 2 Mbps
to 20 Mbps for all households
• Environment: Environmental Monitoring, Pollution Control, Climate Science.
Displaying Air quality index (AQI) through large LED screens
• Education: E-Learning, Interactive Learning, Data-Driven Education
PM E-Vidhya, SWAYAM PRABHA, E-Pathshala initiatives of Government.
• Economic Growth: Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Job Creation, Productivity
Gains.
Startup India scheme, T-Hub by Telanagana government
Current Science & Technology developments in India
India is making significant strides in various fields of science and technology. Here are some
of the current developments and advancements:
Space Technology:
1. Chandrayaan-3: Following the success of Chandrayaan-2, the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) has launched Chandrayaan-3 to further explore the lunar
surface.
2. Gaganyaan: India's first manned space mission aims to send Indian astronauts, or
"vyomanauts," into space by 2024.
3. Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): ISRO has developed the SSLV to cater to the
growing demand for launching small satellites.
Information Technology and Digital Transformation:
• Digital India: This initiative aims to transform India into a digitally empowered
society and knowledge economy, with a focus on digital infrastructure, digital
literacy, and digital services.
DigiLocker, Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) Jeevan
Pramaan
• 5G Technology: India is rolling out 5G networks, which promise faster internet
speeds and improved connectivity, enhancing various sectors like healthcare,
education, and entertainment.
In the 2023 Budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced the setting
up of 100 labs for developing 5G applications, (5G Intelligent Village
Initiative responds to the pressing need for equitable technological advancement by
harnessing the transformative power of 5G technology to uplift rural communities).
• AI and Machine Learning: India is investing in artificial intelligence and machine
learning across industries, from healthcare and agriculture to finance and retail.
IndiaAI Mission, Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence(GPAI)
Biotechnology and Healthcare:
• COVID-19 Vaccination: India has been a key player in the global vaccination drive,
with vaccines like Covaxin and Covishield. The country is also involved in the
development and distribution of newer vaccines and booster doses.
• Genome India Project: This project aims to map the genetic diversity of India's
population to enable better healthcare and personalized medicine.
• Telemedicine and Health Tech: The use of telemedicine has surged, providing
remote healthcare services, especially in rural areas. Startups are innovating in
health tech, offering solutions like online consultations and health monitoring apps.
eSanjeevani Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centre(AB-HWC), smart watches
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Renewable Energy:
• Solar Power: India is one of the largest producers of solar energy, with ambitious
projects like the solar park in Pavagada, Karnataka, and the push towards achieving
280 GW of solar power as part of its 500 GW renewable energy capacity goal.
• Wind Energy: India is also investing heavily in wind energy, with large-scale wind
farms in states like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.
India ranks 4th in Wind Power Capacity and 5th in Solar Power Capacity globally.
• National Hydrogen Mission: Launched to promote the use of green hydrogen as an
alternative energy source, aiming to make India a global hub for hydrogen
production and export.
The mission aims for the development of green hydrogen production capacity of at
least 5 Million Metric Tonne (MMT) per annum
Infrastructure and Smart Cities:
1. Smart Cities Mission: This initiative aims to develop 100 smart cities across India,
incorporating modern infrastructure, smart solutions, and sustainable urban
planning.
2. High-Speed Rail: The Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project, using Japanese
Shinkansen technology, is under development to provide faster and more efficient
transportation.
3. Electric Vehicles (EVs): India is promoting the adoption of electric vehicles through
incentives and infrastructure development, aiming for a significant share of EVs in
the total vehicle market by 2030.
Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME
India) Scheme Phase-II
Agriculture and Food Technology:
1. Precision Agriculture: The use of IoT, drones, and AI in agriculture to optimize
resource use, increase crop yields, and improve farm management practices.
National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGPA)
2. GM Crops: Research and development in genetically modified crops aim to improve
yield, pest resistance, and nutritional value.
DMH-11 Mustard, Bt Cotton crop etc.,
3. Cold Chain Infrastructure: Enhancing cold storage and supply chain logistics to
reduce post-harvest losses and improve food distribution.
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Provides assistance to
farmers for developing cold storages
Defense and Security:
• Indigenous Defense Production: India is focusing on self-reliance in defense
manufacturing, with projects like the development of the Tejas fighter jet, Arjun
main battle tank, and various missile systems.
The Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)
• Cybersecurity: Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure and developing indigenous
solutions to protect against cyber threats.
National Cyber Security Strategy 2020
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• Advanced Weaponry: Development and induction of advanced weaponry and
technologies like hypersonic missiles, stealth technology, and unmanned systems.
MIRV technology AGNI V
Scientific Research and Innovation:
• National Research Foundation (NRF): Proposed to boost research and development
across various disciplines by providing funding and facilitating collaboration between
academia, industry, and government.
Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
• Quantum Computing: Investments in quantum computing research to develop
cutting-edge technology for applications in cryptography, optimization, and
simulation.
• National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum
computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years
• Nanotechnology: Advancements in nanotechnology for applications in medicine,
electronics, and materials science.
• Nano Mission (Nano Science and Technology Mission – NSTM)
Environmental Conservation:
1. Project Dolphin and Project Lion: Initiatives to protect and conserve India's riverine
and terrestrial biodiversity. Use of Radio collar
2. Afforestation Programs: Large-scale tree plantation drives and conservation efforts
to combat deforestation and promote sustainable forest management.
3. Clean Ganga Mission: Efforts to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga river, involving
wastewater treatment, riverfront development, and public awareness campaigns.
Importance of Science & Technology as an engine for National Development:
Science and technology (S&T) play a critical role as an engine for national development.
Their importance can be highlighted in various areas like
Economic Growth :
● Innovation and Industrialization leads to the development of new products, services,
and industries.
● Technological advancements improve productivity and efficiency across all sectors,
from manufacturing to agriculture. Automation, data analytics, and modern
machinery reduce costs and increase output.
● Nations that invest in S&T are better positioned to compete in the global market.
Healthcare and Quality of Life
● Medical Advances, Healthcare Access. S&T lead to breakthroughs in medical
research, resulting in better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. This
enhances the overall health and life expectancy of the population.
● Telemedicine and mobile health technologies improve access to healthcare,
especially in remote and underserved areas, ensuring more equitable health
services.
e-Sanjeevani portal
Education and Knowledge
● Enhancing Learning, Research and Skill Development. Technological tools and digital
resources enhance learning experiences, making education more interactive and
accessible.
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● Investments in research institutions and universities foster innovation and
knowledge creation, contributing to a country's intellectual capital.
S&T education equips individuals with the skills needed for modern jobs.
Swayam Prabha, T SAT Nipuna by government of Telangana
Infrastructure and Urban Development
● Smart Cities - Technological solutions enable the development of smart cities, where
infrastructure is optimized for energy efficiency, transportation, waste management,
and public services. Smart Cities Mission
● Sustainable Development - S&T provide tools for sustainable urban planning and the
construction of eco-friendly buildings, reducing the environmental footprint of urban
areas.
Agriculture and Food Security:
● Improved Crop Yields, Resource Management and Supply Chain Efficiency can boost
this sector.
• Biotechnology and precision farming techniques increase agricultural productivity
and resilience to climate change, ensuring food security.
• Technological innovations in logistics and supply chain management reduce food
wastage and improve distribution, making food systems more efficient and resilient.
• GM crops (DMH-11, Bt cotton), Cold Chain scheme by Ministry of Food Processing
Industries
National Security
● Defense Technology, Cybersecurity and Disaster Management can be well handled
with the help of S&T.
● Advanced technologies in defense enhance national security by providing better
surveillance, intelligence, and weaponry. S&T are crucial in protecting national
infrastructure from cyber threats, ensuring the security of sensitive information and
systems.
● Technologies for early warning systems, disaster response, and recovery improve a
nation's ability to handle natural and man-made disasters.
Brahmos, AGNI, Prithvi missiles, IRS, INSAT and GSAT satellites etc.,
Governance and Public Services:
● E-Governance and Data-Driven Policies using S&T enables public to access the
government services effectively.
● Digital technologies enhance the efficiency and transparency of government
operations, improving public service delivery and citizen engagement.
● Technological tools improve public safety through better crime detection,
emergency response, and management of public spaces.
● PRAGATI 2.0 : Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, MyGov 2.0,
Jeevan Pramaan.
Innovation Ecosystem:
● Startups and Entrepreneurship - A strong focus on S&T fosters an entrepreneurial
ecosystem where startups can thrive, driving innovation and economic growth.
● S&T promote collaboration between academia, industry, and government, creating
networks that support research and innovation.
● Countries with a robust S&T infrastructure attract foreign investment and talent,
further boosting their development. Ex: ATAL MISSION(National Innovation Mission)
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● Examples of countries that have effectively leveraged technology for rapid
development:
● South Korea: Major investments in education in the 1960s and 1970s created the
groundwork for a technologically proficient workforce. The 1990s saw the rise of
giants such as Samsung and LG as a result of the concentration on ICT innovation.
● Israel: The development of a strong high-tech sector that contributes to national
security and worldwide technical leadership. Agricultural innovations ensure food
security and export surpluses. (In 2023-2024 they trained about 170,000 farmers
about technological solutions on greenhouse, drip irrigation, canopy irrigation and
mulch).
● China: Massive government investment in manufacturing technologies transformed
China into the "world's factory." Significant increases in industrial productivity and
global market penetration. Rapid urbanisation and improvement in living standards
are driven by technological advancement.
The role and impact of Science and Technology in Industrial development
● Science and technology (S&T) play a pivotal role in industrial development by driving
innovation, enhancing efficiency, and improving product quality.
● Innovation and R&D: Product Development and Process Innovation.
● Quality and Standardization: Precision and Accuracy
Technology facilitates the establishment of industry standards, ensuring consistency
and interoperability across products and processes.
● Resource Management: Efficient Resource Utilization and Sustainable Practices.
Science drives the development of eco-friendly materials and processes, promoting
sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
● Automation and Robotics: Increased Productivity and Safety and Risk Reduction.
● Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Digital Transformation and Smart
Manufacturing. Technologies like IoT, AI, and cloud computing create smart
manufacturing environments where machines and systems communicate and
operate autonomously.
● Supply Chain and Logistics: Efficiency & Transparency and Inventory Management.
Advanced technologies enable real-time tracking and management of inventory,
reducing holding costs and preventing stockouts.
Examples of Science and Technology Impacting Industry:
1. Automotive Industry: Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Autonomous Vehicles
2. Pharmaceutical Industry: Drug Development and Manufacturing Processes
3. Manufacturing Industry: 3D Printing and Smart Factories
4. Energy Sector: Renewable Energy and Energy Storage
The role and impact of Science and Technology in Industrial development in India
● The GOI has adequately acknowledged the contribution that science and technology
have made to the country’s progress. The Second Five-Year Plan emphasized that
“the community’s readiness to apply modern science and technology is the most
significant single component in supporting economic development.”
• To support emerging fields of research and technology, the Department of Science
and Technology (DST) was established in 1971.
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• At the state level, State Councils of Science and Technology have also been
established.
• To control pollution in the Ganga River, the Central Ganga Authority was established.
The nation currently has a solid foundation in modem technology.
• The relatively strict intellectual property laws in India will help the country become a
significant R&D hub.
The role and impact of Science and Technology in Urbanization
• Science and technology (S&T) significantly influence urbanization, shaping the
development, management, and sustainability of urban areas.
• Infrastructure Development: Smart Cities and Construction Technologies. S&T enable
the creation of smart cities that integrate information and communication
technology (ICT) to manage assets, resources, and services efficiently.
Examples include smart grids, intelligent transportation systems, and automated
waste management.
• Transportation and Mobility: Public Transportation - Technologies like GPS,
automated fare collection, and real-time tracking.
Electric and Autonomous Vehicles and Smart Traffic Management
• Resource Management: Water & Waste Management and Energy Efficiency
• Environmental Sustainability: Green Urban Planning and Pollution Monitoring &
Control.
Technologies for air and water quality monitoring help track pollution levels and
implement measures to control environmental degradation.
• Public Services and Safety: E-Governance and Emergency Response Systems.
Advanced communication and monitoring technologies enable quick and effective
responses to emergencies, including natural disasters, fires, and crime.
• Healthcare: Telemedicine & E-Health and Health Monitoring. Wearable devices and
health monitoring systems enable continuous tracking of health parameters, aiding
in preventive care and timely interventions.
Education and Skill Development: Digital Learning Platforms and STEM Education.
Emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education prepares
the urban workforce for future technological advancements and challenges.
Examples of Science and Technology Impacting Urbanization:
1. Singapore’s Smart Nation Initiative:Singapore leverages advanced technologies to
enhance urban living
2. Masdar City, UAE is an example of sustainable urban development, incorporating
renewable energy, green building practices, and smart infrastructure
3. Barcelona uses IoT, big data, and smart technologies to improve urban services,
including waste management, transportation, and public safety.
Challenges to the growth of Science and Technology in post independent India
The growth of science and technology (S&T) in post-independent India has been significant,
but it has also faced numerous challenges. These barriers can be broadly categorized into
institutional, financial, social, and infrastructural challenges:
Institutional and Policy Challenges:
● Bureaucratic red tape,
● Fragmented Research Structure - There is often a lack of coordination and
integration among these bodies,
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● Policy Discontinuity.
Financial Constraints:
● Insufficient Funding - R&D investment as a percentage of GDP standing at 0.64%,
India falls behind major developed and emerging economies such as China (2.4%),
Germany (3.1%), South Korea (4.8%) and the United States (3.5%).
● Poor Industry Investment - Private sector investment in research and development
(R&D) is relatively low in India.
Infrastructural Limitations
● Aging Research Infrastructure
● Rural-Urban Divide
Social Factors:
● Education System- India's education system does not encourage critical thinking and
innovation, which are vital for scientific advancement.
● Brain Drain
To address these challenges, India needs a coherent and sustained policy framework that
prioritizes science and technology across all government actions. Increasing Public and
Private investment in R&D, modernizing educational curricula, building state-of-art research
facilities are crucial steps.
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