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Science and Tech Week 1

The document outlines the evolution and achievements of India's space technology, initiated in the 1960s under Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, with significant milestones including the development of the Indian National Satellite (INSAT) and Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) systems. It details the role of the Department of Space (DOS) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in promoting space science and technology for national development, highlighting India's cost-effective space program and international collaborations. Key advancements include the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and upcoming missions like Gaganyaan, showcasing India's capabilities in satellite launches and space exploration.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
46 views39 pages

Science and Tech Week 1

The document outlines the evolution and achievements of India's space technology, initiated in the 1960s under Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, with significant milestones including the development of the Indian National Satellite (INSAT) and Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) systems. It details the role of the Department of Space (DOS) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in promoting space science and technology for national development, highlighting India's cost-effective space program and international collaborations. Key advancements include the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and upcoming missions like Gaganyaan, showcasing India's capabilities in satellite launches and space exploration.

Uploaded by

Saurabh Kumar
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

1 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)

01 Space Technology, Atomic Energy


and Renewable Energy

SPACE TECHNOLOGY
GENESIS OF SPACE TECHNOLOGY IN INDIA
The space research activities were Started in our country during the early 1960’s, when applications using
satellites were in experimental stages even in the United States. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the founding father of
Indian space programme, quickly recognized the benefits of space technologies for India. Since inception, the
Indian space programme has been orchestrated well and had three distinct elements such as,
• Satellites for communication and remote sensing,
• The space transportation system and application programmes.
ISRO was clear that it need not wait for its own satellites to begin application development, and it was dependent
on foreign satellites. During the initial period.
• It conducted Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE), which was hailed as ‘the largest
sociological experiment in the world’ during 1975-76 which involved training 50,000 science teachers’
primary schools in one year goes to SITE.
• SITE was followed by the Satellite Telecommunication Experiments Project (STEP), for telecommunication
experiments. STEP was aimed to provide a system test of using geosynchronous satellites for domestic
communications.
• The first Indian spacecraft ‘Aryabhatta’ was developed and was launched using a Soviet Launcher. The
development of the first launch vehicle SLV-3 with a capability to place 40 kg in Low Earth Orbit (LEO),
had its first successful flight in 1980.
• The development of multistage rocket systems with appropriate control and guidance systems to orbit a
satellite was a major landmark in our space programme.
• Bhaskara-I & II missions were pioneering steps in the remote sensing area whereas ‘Ariane Passenger
Payload Experiment (APPLE)’ became the forerunner for future communication satellite system.
• Development of the complex Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), also demonstrated newer
technologies like use of strap-on, bulbous heat shield, closed loop guidance and digital autopilot. This
paved the way for the realization of operational launch vehicles such as PSLV and GSLV.
• During the operational phase in 90’s, major space infrastructure was created under two broad classes: one
for the communication, broadcasting and meteorology through a multi-purpose Indian National Satellite
system (INSAT), and the other for Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS) system.
• The development and operationalization of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and development of
Geo-Synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) were significant achievements during this phase.

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2 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
DEPARTMENT OF SPACE (DOS))
DOS harnesses space technology for national development, while pursuing space science research and planetary
exploration. Department of Space has the primary responsibility of promoting the development of space science,
technology and applications towards achieving self-reliance and assisting in all round development of the nation.
Towards this, DOS has evolved the following programmes:
• Indian National Satellite (INSAT) programme for telecommunications, TV broadcasting, meteorology,
developmental education, etc.
• Remote Sensing programme for the application of satellite imagery for various developmental purposes
• Indigenous capability for design and development of spacecraft and associated technologies for
communications, resources survey, navigation and space sciences
• Design and development of launch vehicles with indigenous technology for access to space and orbiting
INSAT, IRS spacecraft and space science missions
• Research and development in space sciences and technologies as well as application programme for
national development
The Space Commission formulates the policies and oversees the implementation of the Indian space programme
to promote the development and application of space science and technology for the socio-economic benefit of
the country. DOS implements these programmes through, mainly, Indian Space Research Organisation, Physical
Research Laboratory (PRL), National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL), North Eastern-Space Applications
Centre (NE-SAC) and Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL). Antrix Corporation, established in 1992 as a Government
owned company, markets space products and services. Both the DOS and ISRO Headquarters are located at
Bengaluru. The developmental activities are carried out at the Centres and Units spread over the country
Achievement of Indian Space Sector
• Today, the value of the global space industry is estimated to be $350 billion and is likely to exceed $550
billion by 2025.
• India’s share is estimated at $7 billion (just 2% of the global market) covering broadband and Direct-to-
Home television (accounting for two-thirds of the share), satellite imagery and navigation.
• India’s space programme stands out as one of the most cost-effective in the world. India has earned
worldwide recognition for launching lunar probes, built satellites, ferried foreign satellites up and has
even succeeded in reaching Mars.
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) established in 1969 has formal co-operative arrangements in
place with 33 countries and three multinational bodies.
• Various achievements are as follows:
→ Satellite Communication: The first area was of satellite communication, with INSAT and GSAT as
the backbones, to address the national needs for telecommunication, broadcasting and
broadband infrastructure.
 Gradually, bigger satellites have been built carrying a larger array of transponders. About 200
transponders on Indian satellites provide services linked to areas like telecommunication,
telemedicine, television, disaster management etc.
→ Earth Observatory: Beginning with the Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) series in the 1980s, today the
RISAT, Cartosat and RESOURCESAT series provide wide-field and multi-spectral high resolution
data for land, ocean and atmospheric observations.
 These resources cover weather forecasting, disaster management, agriculture and watershed,
land resource, and forestry managements. With higher resolution and precise positioning,

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3 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Geographical Information Systems’ applications today cover all aspects of rural and urban
development and planning.
→ Space Observatory: Astrosat launched in 2015 is India’s first dedicated multi wavelength space
observatory. It enables the simultaneous multi-wavelength observations of various astronomical
objects with a single satellite.
→ Navigation: The GPS-aided GEO
Unispace Nanosatellite Assembly & Training
augmented navigation (GAGAN), a joint Programme (UNNATI)
project between ISRO and Airports • ISRO launched a capacity building
Authority of India, augmented the GPS programme on Nanosatellite development
coverage of the region, improving the named UNNATI.
accuracy and integrity, primarily for civil • It is an initiative to commemorate the
aviation applications and better air traffic 50th anniversary of the first United Nations
management over Indian airspace. conference on the exploration and peaceful
uses of outer space (UNISPACE+50).
 This was followed up with the Indian
• It would provide opportunities to the
Regional Navigation Satellite System
participating developing countries to
(IRNSS), a system based on seven strengthen in assembling, integrating and
satellites in geostationary and testing of Nanosatellite.
geosynchronous orbits. In 2016, the
system was renamed NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation).
→ Small Satellite: Globally, 17,000 small satellites are expected to be launched between now and 2030.
ISRO is developing a small satellite launch vehicle (SSLV) as well. It is a prime candidate, along with
the proven PSLV, to be farmed out to the private sector.
→ Space exploration missions: The most notable of these have been the Chandrayaan and the
Mangalyaan missions, with a manned space mission, Gaganyaan, planned for its first test flight in
2025. These missions are not just for technology demonstration but also for expanding the frontiers
of knowledge in space.
→ Launch Vehicles: None of the above missions would have been possible without mastering the
launch-vehicle technology. Beginning with the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV) and the Augmented
Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), ISRO has developed and refined the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
(PSLV) and GSLV as its Prime Vehicle for placing satellites etc.
→ ISRO-Student Collaborations: ANUSAT (Anna University Satellite), Student Satellite (STUDSAT),
YOUTHSAT, SRMSAT, Jugnu etc.

LAUNCH VEHICLES IN INDIA


• Launch Vehicles are used to transport and put satellites or spacecrafts into space. In India, the launch
vehicles development programme began in the early 1970s.
• The first experimental Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3) was developed in 1980. An Augmented version of
this, ASLV, was launched successfully in 1992.
• India has two operational launchers: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite
Launch Vehicle (GSLV).

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4 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• In order to achieve high accuracy in placing satellites into their orbits, a combination of accuracy,
efficiency, power and immaculate planning are required.
• ISRO's Launch Vehicle Programme spans numerous centres like
→ Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, located in Thiruvananthapuram, is responsible for the design and
development of launch vehicles.
→ Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre and ISRO Propulsion Complex, located at Valiamala and
Mahendragiri respectively, develop the liquid and cryogenic stages for these launch vehicles.
→ Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, is the space port of India and is responsible for integration of
launchers. It houses two operational launch pads from where all GSLV and PSLV flights take place.
• So far, India has made tremendous progress in the field of development of launch vehicles.
• Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
→ It is designed mainly to deliver the “earth-observation” or “remote sensing” satellites with lift-off
mass of up to about 1750 Kg to Sun-Synchronous circular polar orbits of 600-900 Km altitude.
→ After its first successful launch in October 1994, PSLV emerged as the reliable and versatile
workhorse launch vehicle of India with 39 consecutively successful missions by June 2017.
→ PSLV is a four-staged launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages.
→ It is the first Indian launch vehicle to be equipped with liquid stages. It is also equipped with
strap-on external motors.
→ It has successfully launched Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites, Chandrayaan (2008),
Mangalyaan (2013), Astrosat, INRSS etc.
→ First time ISRO launched a rocket that injected satellites in three different orbits using PSLV-
C45
• Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle GSLV
→ It was developed to launch the heavier INSAT class of Geosynchronous satellites into orbit. In its
third and final stage, GSLV uses the indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage.
→ Variants of GSLV
 GSLV MkI: It was developed for launching around 1500kg into geostationary transfer orbit. The
chamber pressure in all liquid engines were enhanced which enabled a higher propellant mass
and burn time. This allowed GSLV to carry an additional mass of 300kg of payload.
 GSLV MkII: This variant uses an Indian cryogenic engine, CE- 7.5 and is capable of launching
2500kg into geostationary transfer orbit.
 Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III) is the heaviest launch
vehicle developed by India, which is currently in operation.
 This launch vehicle is a three stage vehicle with two solid boosters, liquid core engine and
upper stage cryogenic engine.
 ISRO launched satellite-GSAT-19, GSAT-29, Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3.
 Significance of GSLV-Mk III
 Its successful launch provide a thrust to future space missions such as Gaganyaan.
 India is among six nations — apart from the US, Russia, France, Japan and China — to possess
cryogenic engine technology. The launch further expand ISRO’s space programmes on several
fronts such as commercial international space market.

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5 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Reusable Launch Vehicle – Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD)
→ It is one of the most technologically challenging endeavors of ISRO towards developing essential
technologies for a fully reusable launch vehicle to enable low cost access to space.
→ The configuration of RLV-TD is similar to that of an aircraft and combines the complexity of both
launch vehicles and aircraft.
→ The winged RLV-TD has been configured to act as a flying test bed to evaluate various technologies,
namely, hypersonic flight, autonomous landing and powered cruise flight.
→ In future, this vehicle will be scaled up to become the first stage of India’s reusable two stage orbital
launch vehicle.
Various Space Missions of ISRO
 MARS ORBITER MISSION
• Mars Orbiter Mission is ISRO’s first interplanetary mission to planet Mars with an orbiter craft designed to
orbit Mars in an elliptical orbit of 372 km by 80,000 km.
• Mars Orbiter mission can be termed as a challenging technological mission and a science mission
considering the critical mission operations and stringent requirements on propulsion, communications
and other bus systems of the spacecraft.
• The primary driving technological objective of the mission is to design and realize a spacecraft with a
capability to perform Earth Bound Manoeuvre (EBM), Martian Transfer Trajectory (MTT) and Mars Orbit
Insertion (MOI) phases and the related deep space mission planning and communication management at
a distance of nearly 400 million Km.
• In 2017, India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) spacecraft completed three years in its orbit around Mars
 Chandrayaan-1
• Chandrayaan-1, India's first mission to Moon, was launched successfully on October 22, 2008 from SDSC
SHAR, Sriharikota.
• The spacecraft was orbiting around the Moon at a height of 100 km from the lunar surface for chemical,
mineralogical and photo-geologic mapping of the Moon.
• The spacecraft carried 11 scientific instruments built in India, USA, UK, Germany, Sweden and Bulgaria.
 Chandrayaan-2
• Chandrayaan-2 was an advanced version of the previous Chandrayaan-1 mission to Moon.
• Chandrayaan-2 was configured as a two module system comprising of an Orbiter Craft module (OC) and a
Lander Craft module (LC) carrying the Rover developed by ISRO.
• India was successful in orbiting the moon, but failed in the landing mission. The site where Vikram
lander with Pragyan rover crash landed has been named as “Tiranga”.
 Chandrayaan-3
• Chandrayaan-3 was an advanced version of the previous Chandrayaan-2 mission to Moon.
• Chandrayaan-3 was configured as a two module system comprising of an Orbiter Propulsion system and
the Vikram Lander carrying the Pragyan Rover for soft landing on the south pole of the moon.
• India was successful in orbiting the moon and soft landing on the moon. The site where Vikram lander
with Pragyan rover successfully landed has been named as “Shiva-Shakti”.
 Aditya L1 (Suryayaan)
• It is a satellite designed to study the solar corona (outer layers of the Sun) which is quite similar to
NASA's Parker Solar Probe.
• It will be placed in a halo orbit around a vantage point in space known as L1 Lagrange point.

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6 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
→ Halo Orbit is periodic, three-dimensional orbit near the L1, L2 and L3 Lagrange point (unstable) in a
three body system.
→ Lagrange Point is the point where the combined gravitational force of two large bodies is equal to
the centrifugal force that is felt by a third body which is relatively smaller. There are about 5 such
points in a two body system.
→ The point L1 has the major advantage of viewing the sun without any occultation/ eclipses.
• The mission carry seven payloads including the main payload the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph
(VLEC).
• Aditya L1 is to be the first satellite to study the magnetic field of the sun’s corona.
• It is expected to help in study that is why the photosphere, the deeper layer of the sun is at much
lower temperature than the corona.
• It will also study aspects that affect space weather, the origin of solar wind ions, their reaction to
coronal mass ejections, the distribution of these in the heliosphere- the space around the sun that
extends up to Pluto.
 ASTROSAT
• ASTROSAT is India’s first dedicated multi wavelength space observatory. This scientific satellite mission
endeavors for a more detailed understanding of our universe. One of the unique features of ASTROSAT
mission is that it enables the simultaneous multi-wavelength observations of various astronomical
objects with a single satellite.
• ASTROSAT will observe universe in the optical, Ultraviolet, low and high energy X-ray regions of the
electromagnetic spectrum, whereas most other scientific satellites are capable of observing a narrow
range of wavelength band. Multi-wavelength observations of ASTROSAT can be further extended with
coordinated observations using other spacecraft and ground based observations. All major astronomy
Institutions and some Universities in India will participate in these observations.
• ASTROSAT has a lift-off mass of about 1513 kg. It was launched into a 650 km orbit inclined at an angle
of 6 deg to the equator by PSLV-C30. The scientific objectives of ASTROSAT mission are:
→ To understand high energy processes in binary star systems containing neutron stars and black
holes
→ Estimate magnetic fields of neutron stars
→ Study star birth regions and high energy processes in star systems lying beyond our galaxy
→ Detect new briefly bright X-ray sources in the sky
→ Perform a limited deep field survey of the Universe in the Ultraviolet region
 XPoSat
XPoSat (2023): The X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) is a supporting mission of Astrosat to study cosmic
sources in extreme environments. This mission aims to observe X-ray polarization from astronomical
sources. It contributes valuable data on black holes, neutron stars, supernova, etc.

SPACE DEBRIS
• Space debris encompasses both natural (meteoroid) and artificial (man-made) particles. Meteoroids are in
orbit about the sun, while most artificial debris is in orbit about the Earth. Hence, the latter is more
commonly referred to as orbital debris.
• The term Kessler syndrome is associated with Space Debris, which is used to describe a self-sustaining
cascading collision of space debris in LEO (Low Earth Orbit).

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7 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 Why Space Debris is a concern?
• Obstruction to various space endeavors
→ NASA estimates that there are about 500,000 pieces of debris larger than half an inch across in low
orbit, posing a potential danger to the 780-odd satellites operating in the area.
→ Space junk travels at speeds up to 30,000 km an hour, which turns tiny pieces of orbital debris into
deadly shrapnel that can damage satellites, space shuttles, space stations and spacecraft with
humans aboard.
• Increase the cost of missions- Various space agencies have to manoeuvre their space programme in
light of increasing space debris thus adding to extra economic and human resource on space programme.
• Debris is bound to increase- Space-scientists concern about the inexpensive, tiny satellites called
CubeSats, which are going to add space junk around 15% in next 10 years.

 Initiatives taken towards Space Debris cleanup


• Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, and
Anti-satellite (ASAT) missile and Space
Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee
Debris
(IADC) advocates Global mitigation measures including • Mission Shakti which was launched
preventing the creation of new debris, designing satellites recently was done in a low orbit of less
to withstand impacts by small debris, and improving than 300 kilometres and at a particular
operational procedures such as using orbital regimes with angle to ensure that minimal debris
less debris, and predicting and avoiding collisions. were disbursed above into space to avoid
damage to other satellites or the
However, these guidelines are only voluntary in nature
International Space Station (ISS).
and there is no international treaty on space debris
• In contrast, when China tested its ASAT
currently. missile in 2007 destroying one of its own
• UK- The RemoveDEBRIS mission is led by the Surrey weather satellites, it created close to
Space Centre at the University of Surrey. UK and co- 2500 pieces of space debris.
funded by various other partners from EU.
• European Space Agency Deorbit mission, which would target an ESA-owned derelict satellite in low
orbit, capture it, then safely burn it up in a controlled atmospheric reentry.
• Japan- It launched Kounotori 6 satellite, which uses a half mile long tether to remove some of the debris
from Earth's orbit. The tether, made of aluminum strands and steel wire, is designed to slow the debris,
pulling it out of orbit.
• India-
→ A team of ISRO and Physical Research Laboratory are working on setting up an observatory to track
the space junk.
→ A multi- object tracking radar (MOTR) developed by the Satish Dhawan Space Centre allows ISRO to
track 10 objects simultaneously. It tracks India’s space assets and space debris, for which India was
solely dependent on data provide by the US space agency NASA till early 2016
FUTURE MISSIONS OF ISRO INDIA
ISRO has a robust roadmap for future missions, aiming to enhance human spaceflight capabilities and deepen
space exploration:

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8 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Gaganyaan: Set to be India's first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan aims to send Indian astronauts
to low Earth orbit for 5-7 days. The mission involves developing a crew module, environmental control
system and life support systems.

Gaganyaan: is the first Indian astronaut mission under ISRO's (Indian Space Research Institute)
manned space mission, which was announced on August 15, 2018. The Gaganyaan mission is an
ambitious and fully indigenous mission of ISRO. It is a fully indigenous mission and under this
mission, the first passenger crew is planned to be sent to space by the year 2025. ISRO has made all the
preparations related to this mission, although there are some challenges in the path of success of this
mission, which are being overcome jointly by ISRO and other stakeholders. After the success of the
mission, India will become the fourth country in the world to successfully operate an manned space
flight programme.
• Shukrayaan-1: This mission aims to explore Venus, focusing on its surface, atmospheric composition, and
complex climate processes. It seeks to enhance our understanding of the planet’s geological and
atmospheric dynamics.
• Chandrayaan-4: The union cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the
mission to moon, named Chandrayaan-4 to develop and demonstrate the technologies to come back to
Earth after successfully landing on the Moon and also collect moon samples and analyse them on Earth.
This Chandrayaan-4 mission will achieve the foundational technologies capabilities eventually for an
Indian landing on the moon (planned by year 2040) and return safely back to Earth. Major technologies
that are required for docking/undocking, landing, safe return to earth and also accomplish lunar sample
collection and analysis would be demonstrated.
• NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar): Scheduled for launch in March 2025, this mission is a
cooperative effort between NASA and ISRO. It monitors Earth's ecosystem changes, ice-mass dynamics,
and natural disasters. It uses advanced radar technology to provide detailed, all-weather observations.
• Mangalyaan-2: This second mission to Mars aims to conduct more detailed exploration and study of the
Martian surface and atmosphere. It will build on the success of the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan).
• The International Space Station (ISS) is a permanently inhabited satellite orbiting Earth at a low altitude.
It's a collaborative project involving the space agencies of the United States (NASA), Russia (Roscosmos),
Japan (JAXA), Europe (ESA), and Canada (CSA). The ISS functions as a research platform in a microgravity
and space environment, enabling studies in fields like astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, and physics.
The air composition inside the ISS is the same as Earth's atmosphere.
• Recent Developments: India aims to establish its own space station by 2035, joining the exclusive group
of nations—the US, Russia, and China—that have such facilities.
IMPORTANCE OF ISRO MISSIONS IN DIFFERENT FIELDS

ISRO has made significant contributions across various sectors in India. Here are some of the key areas:
Agriculture:
• Crop Monitoring and Forecasting: ISRO's satellites provide valuable data for monitoring crop health,
predicting yields, and assessing drought conditions. This information helps farmers make informed
decisions and improve agricultural practices.
• Resource Management: Satellite imagery aids in mapping and managing water resources, soil health, and
land use, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
• Disaster Management: ISRO's satellites play a crucial role in providing timely information for disaster
preparedness and response, helping to mitigate the impact of natural calamities on agriculture.

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Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
9 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 Education:
• Satellite-based Education: ISRO has been involved in initiatives to provide educational content to remote
areas through satellite communication, bridging the gap in access to quality education.
• Capacity Building: ISRO conducts training programs and workshops to promote awareness and
understanding of space technology among students and educators.
• Research and Development: ISRO's research in space science and technology contributes to the
development of educational resources and curriculum enhancement.
 Defense:
→ Surveillance and Reconnaissance: ISRO's satellites provide critical information for defense purposes,
including surveillance, reconnaissance, and border monitoring.
→ Navigation and Communication: Satellite-based navigation and communication systems developed
by ISRO enhance the capabilities of defense forces.
→ Early Warning Systems: ISRO's satellites contribute to the development of early warning systems for
natural disasters and potential threats, aiding in national security.
 Health:
→ Telemedicine: ISRO's satellite communication network facilitates telemedicine services in remote
areas, providing access to healthcare expertise and consultations.
→ Disease Surveillance: Satellite data can be used to monitor environmental factors that contribute to
the spread of diseases, aiding in public health initiatives.
→ Remote Sensing for Health: Satellite imagery can assist in mapping and monitoring health
infrastructure, identifying areas of concern, and supporting healthcare planning.
 Disaster Management
→ Early Warning Systems: ISRO's satellites provide crucial information for early warning systems for
cyclones, floods, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.
→ Disaster Monitoring: Satellite imagery enables real-time monitoring of disaster situations, helping in
assessing the impact and coordinating relief efforts.
→ Communication and Connectivity: ISRO's satellite communication network ensures connectivity
in disaster-affected areas, facilitating rescue and relief operations.
 Research and Development-
→ Space Exploration: ISRO's primary focus is on space exploration, conducting missions to the Moon,
Mars, and beyond, contributing to scientific knowledge and technological advancements.
→ Satellite Technology: ISRO develops and launches satellites for various purposes, including
communication, navigation, remote sensing, and scientific research.
→ Technology Transfer: ISRO shares its technologies and expertise with various industries and
organizations, promoting innovation and development in diverse fields.
→ These are some of the key contributions of ISRO to various sectors in India. ISRO's work has had a
profound impact on the country's development and continues to play a vital role in addressing
various challenges and opportunities.

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
10 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
ACHIEVEMENTS OF ISRO
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved significant milestones in space exploration.
Here are some of their key achievements:
• Chandrayaan-1 (2008): India's first lunar mission, which discovered water molecules on the Moon.
• Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) (2013): India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars' orbit in
its first attempt.
• Chandrayaan-3 (2023): Successfully soft-landed on the Moon's south pole, a historic achievement.
• Aditya-L1 (2023): India's first dedicated scientific mission to study the Sun.
• Gaganyaan (Ongoing): India's first human spaceflight mission, currently under development.
ISRO is also known for its cost-effective satellite launches, particularly using the Polar Satellite
Launch Vehicle (PSLV). They have launched numerous satellites for India and international clients,
contributing to communication, remote sensing, and meteorology.
• In 2024, ISRO achieved several milestones, including the launch of XPOSAT, Aditya-L1 reaching halo
orbit, successful tests of the reusable launch vehicle Pushpak, and the launch of SSLV-D3. They also
conducted India's first Analog Space Mission (Hab-1) and launched the European satellite Proba-3.
ISRO's continuous advancements in space technology and exploration have established it as a major
force in the global space arena.
Challenges of ISRO
• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved remarkable success with missions like
Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, but they still face significant challenges:
• Budgetary Constraints: ISRO operates on a relatively small budget compared to other major space
agencies like NASA. This limits their ability to undertake more ambitious missions and develop
cutting-edge technologies.
• Technological Advancements: While ISRO has made significant strides, they need to continuously
upgrade their technology to stay competitive. This includes developing more powerful launch
vehicles, improving satellite capabilities, and investing in research and development.
• Competition: The global space industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with the emergence of
private players like SpaceX. ISRO needs to maintain its edge by offering cost-effective and reliable
launch services, and by focusing on innovation.
• Talent Retention: Attracting and retaining top talent in the fields of space science and engineering is
crucial for ISRO's future success. They need to provide competitive salaries and opportunities for
professional growth to keep their skilled workforce.
• Infrastructure: ISRO needs to continuously upgrade its infrastructure, including launch facilities,
testing facilities, and ground stations, to support its growing ambitions.
Despite these challenges, ISRO has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver successful missions
with limited resources. With continued focus on innovation and strategic planning, ISRO is poised to play
a leading role in the global space arena.
PRIVATISATION IN INDIAN SPACE SECTOR
Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved the creation of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization
Centre (IN-SPACe) to provide a level playing field for private companies to use Indian space infrastructure. This is
part of reforms aimed at giving a boost to private sector participation in the entire range of space activities.

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Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
11 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 Significance
• Level Playing Field for Private Companies: IN-SPACe will provide a level playing field for private
companies to use Indian space infrastructure.
• Research and Development Activities: These reforms will allow ISRO to focus more on new technologies,
exploration missions and human spaceflight programme. Some of the planetary exploration missions will
also be opened up to the private sector through an ‘announcement of opportunity’ mechanism.
• Fruitful Dissemination of Space Technologies: Allowing industries and others like students, researchers
or academic bodies greater access to space assets would lead to a much better utilisation of India space
resources.
• Socio-economic use of Space Assets: The proposed body would attempt to enhance the activities,
including access to space assets data and activities.
• Global Technology Powerhouse: It will enable Indian Industry to be an important player in the global
space economy. With this, there is an opportunity for large-scale employment in the technology sector
and India becoming a Global technology powerhouse.
New Space India Limited
 NSIL is a Central Public Sector Enterprise of the Government of India.
 It was established in 2019 under the administrative control of the Department of Space. Headquarter:
Bengaluru
 NSIL is the commercial arm of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) with the primary
responsibility of enabling Indian industries to take up high technology space related activities.
 It is also responsible for promotion and commercial exploitation of the products and services
emanating from the space industry.
 NSIL is incorporated to carry forward the industry production of space systems and the ISRO’s efforts
in realizing Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLV) from industry.
NSIL differs from ISRO’s existing commercial arm Antrix Corporation Limited (ACL):
 Antrix will handle ISRO’s commercial deals for satellites and launch vehicles with foreign customers.
 NSIL will deal with capacity building of local industry for space manufacturing.

What is the significance of private sector participation in the Indian space sector?
• Enhancing Foreign Direct Investment: The private sector participation will attract more foreign direct
investment for space startups and related technology companies in India.
• Realizing the Vision of ‘’Make in India”: The vision of “Make in India” call for a remodelling of the
mostly government-led space sector of the country.
• Policy Framework and Goals: With private sector participation, India is expected to increase its share in
the global space economy from about 2 per cent to 8 per cent by 2030 and 15% by 2047.
What challenges are associated with the privatization of Indian space sector?
• Access to Capital: Private capital is still not flowing freely and blindly through to space-based enterprises
like it is with internet-, digital media- and hardware-related technology businesses.
• Inability to Create Self-Sustaining Markets: As observed in the past, it puts into question the
commercial viability of space-based enterprises.

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
12 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Access to Insurance: There is also a lack of adequate and secured insurance, due to the inability of
insurers to see and test the reliability of space-based technologies in the recent past.
 Pros of Privatization of Space Exploration:
• Reduce Exploration Cost: With innovation and advanced technology, the space sector can reduce costs
and time. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, etc., have made a revolution.
• Tourism: As proved by Blue Origin, passengers could take on trips beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
• Natural Resources: Countries are establishing a legal framework securing private rights over resources
mined in space, such as Luxembourg, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates.
 Cons of Privatization of Space Exploration:
• Regulation: The regulation of the private sector is not easy. The time taken for regulatory clearances and
unstable political institutions can cause delays and hurdles.
• Spacecraft Emissions: Their participation has led to an enormous increase in the number of launches
that will likely continue to grow in spacecraft emissions.
• Growing Orbital Debris: NASA researchers suggested that the increased number of launches are leading
to a growing number of collisions and consequently, orbital debris.
 Way Forward:
• Demand-driven Approach: Optimizing the utilization of space assets such as satellites and launch
capacity by determining accountability amongst various stakeholders.
• Upskilling the Human Power: It would provide a boost to private sector participation in the space
sector.
→ India is already conducting ISRO Technical Training Programme (ITTP) at various National Skill
Training Institutes (NSTIs) across the country for upskilling of ISRO human assets in four to five
years in a phased manner.

  

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
13 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGY
Development of Nuclear Technology in India
Nuclear research was started with the establishment of the tata institute of fundamental research (TIFR) in 1945.
In April 1948, the atomic energy act was passed and in the same year the atomic energy commission was setup. In
1954, it was decided by AEC to set up the atomic energy establishment at trombay. During the period 1948-1954 the
atomic energy commission functioned within the ministry of natural resources and scientific research, in new
delhi. History and brief introduction to r&d units of DAE on august 4, 1954, the department of atomic energy (DAE)
was created. The department was under the direct charge of prime minister pandit jawaharlal nehru, and has
since then remained under the charge of successive prime ministers. With the creation of the atomic energy
establishment, trombay (AEET), all the scientists working on programmes of direct relevance to the applications
of nuclear power such as nuclear reactor design, electronics and materials science were transferred from TIFR
along with their research programmes to trombay, and they became part of AEET. TIFR became an institution
truly devoted to fundamental research.
• DAE has been engaged in the development of nuclear power technology, applications of radiation
technologies in the fields of agriculture, medicine, industry and basic research.
• DAE comprises five research centres, three industrial organizations, five public sector undertakings and three
service organizations. It has under its aegis two boards for promoting and funding extra-mural research in
nuclear and allied fields, mathematics and a national institute (deemed university).
• It also supports eight institutes of international repute engaged in research in basic sciences, astronomy,
astrophysics, cancer research and education. It also has in its fold an educational society that provides
educational facilities for children of DAE employees.
NUCLEAR REACTOR
• Nuclear power stations and fossil-fuelled power stations of similar capacity have many features in common.
Both require heat to produce steam to drive turbines and generators. In a nuclear power station, however,
the fissioning of uranium atoms replaces the burning of coal or gas. In a nuclear reactor the uranium fuel is
assembled in such a way that a
controlled fission chain reaction can
be achieved. The heat created by
splitting the U-235 atoms is then used
to make steam which spins a turbine
to drive a generator, producing
electricity. The chain reaction that
takes place in the core of a nuclear
reactor is controlled by rods which
absorb neutrons and which can be
inserted or withdrawn to set the
reactor at the required power level.
• The fuel elements are surrounded by a
substance called a moderator to slow
the speed of the emitted neutrons and
thus enable the chain reaction to continue. Water, graphite and heavy water are used as moderators in
different types of reactors.

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Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
14 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Other uses of nuclear energy
In our daily life we need food, water and good health. Today, radioactive isotopes play an important part in the
technologies that provide us with all three. They are produced by bombarding small amounts of elements with
neutrons.
1. In medicine, radioisotopes are widely used for diagnosis and research. Radioactive chemical tracers emit
gamma radiation which provides diagnostic information about a person's anatomy and the functioning
of specific organs. Radiotherapy also employs radioisotopes in the treatment of some illnesses, such as
cancer. More powerful gamma sources are used to sterilize syringes, bandages and other medical
equipment. About one person in two in the western world is likely to experience the benefits of nuclear
medicine in their lifetime, and gamma sterilization of equipment is almost universal.
2. In the preservation of food, radioisotopes are used to inhibit the sprouting of root crops after harvesting,
to kill parasites and pests, and to control the ripening of stored fruit and vegetables. Irradiated foodstuffs
are accepted by world and national health authorities for human consumption in an increasing number
of countries. They include potatoes, onions, dried and fresh fruits, grain and grain products, poultry and
some fish. Some prepacked foods can also be irradiated.
3. In the growing of crops and breeding livestock, radioisotopes also play an important role. They are used
to produce high yielding, disease-resistant and weather-resistant varieties of crops, to study how fertilizers
and insecticides work, and to improve the productivity and health of domestic animals.
4. Industrially, and in mining, they are used to examine welds, to detect leaks, to study the rate of wear of
metals, and for on-stream analysis of a wide range of minerals and fuels.
5. A radioisotope derived from the plutonium formed in nuclear reactors is used in most household smoke
detectors.
6. Radioisotopes are used to detect and analyze pollutants in the environment, and to study the movement
of surface water in streams and of groundwater.
7. Small nuclear reactors power some ships, mostly submarines, but range from icebreakers to aircraft
carriers. These can stay at sea for long periods without having to make refueling stops.
8. The heat produced by nuclear reactors can also be used directly rather than for generating electricity. In
Sweden and Russia, for example, it is used to heat buildings and to provide heat for a variety of industrial
processes such as water desalination. Nuclear desalination is likely to be a major growth area in the next
decade.
9. Both uranium and plutonium were used to make bombs before they became important for making
electricity and radioisotopes. The type of uranium and plutonium for bombs is different from that in a
nuclear power plant. Bomb-grade uranium is highly enriched (>90% U-235, instead of up to 5%); bomb-
grade plutonium is fairly pure Pu-239 (>90%, instead of about 60% in reactor-grade) and is made in special
reactors.

Three stages of indian nuclear power programme


India's three-stage nuclear power programme was formulated by Homi Bhabha in the 1950s to
secure the country’s long term energy independence, through the use of uranium and thorium reserves found in
the monazite sands of coastal regions of South India. The ultimate focus of the programme is on enabling the
thorium reserves of India to be utilized in meeting the country's energy requirements.

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
15 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• In the first stage of the programme, natural uranium fueled pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWR)
produce electricity while generating plutonium-239 as by-product. Heavy water (deuterium oxide, D2O) is used
as moderator and coolant.
• In the second stage, fast breeder
reactors (FBRs) would use a mixed
oxide (MOX) fuel made
from plutonium-239, recovered by
reprocessing spent fuel from the
first stage, and natural uranium.
In FBRs, plutonium-239 undergoes
fission to produce energy, while
the uranium-238 present in the
mixed oxide fuel transmutes to
additional plutonium-239. Thus,
the Stage II FBRs are designed to
"breed" more fuel than they
consume. Once the inventory of
plutonium-239 is built up
thorium can be introduced as a
blanket material in the reactor and transmuted to uranium-233 for use in the third stage.
• In the third stage, Advanced heavy water nuclear (AHWR) will involve a self-sustaining series of thorium-232-
uranium-233 fueled reactors. AHWR is a 300 MWe vertical pressure tube type, boiling light water cooled and
heavy water moderated reactor.
The development of nuclear energy in India has been divided into three stages, the foundation of
which was laid by Homi Jehangir Bhabha. These stages are also known as the nuclear energy program.
• First Stage: This stage involves the construction of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural
uranium fuel. India built two Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) at its first nuclear power plant, Tarapur.
Following this, the first indigenous PHWR was built at Rawatbhata with Canadian collaboration.
• Second Stage: This stage involves the construction of Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) using plutonium, which is
produced as a byproduct in the reactors of the first stage. India has built a Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR)
and an experimental Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam.
• Third Stage: This stage involves the construction of Advanced Heavy Water Reactors (AHWRs) using the
thorium and uranium-233 fuel cycle. India has developed AHWR technology to utilize its vast thorium
reserves.
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) operates all these programs. Through these stages, India has made
significant progress towards achieving self-reliance in the field of nuclear energy.
Types of Nuclear Reaction
• Nuclear Energy is the energy released during nuclear reactions, particularly through processes like nuclear
fission and nuclear fusion. These reactions release a tremendous amount of energy from the atomic nucleus.

Here are two primary types of nuclear reactions: nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.

Nuclear Fission and Nuclear Fusion


• Nuclear Fission: It is the process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two or more lighter nuclei,
accompanied by the release of a large amount of energy. The neutrons produced during fission can trigger

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Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
16 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
subsequent fission reactions in nearby fissile nuclei, creating a self-sustaining chain reaction. This is the
basis for energy production in nuclear power plants.
• Nuclear Fusion: It is the process of combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a
large amount of energy. Common fusion fuels include isotopes of hydrogen, such as deuterium and tritium.
Experimental projects like ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) aim to develop
practical and controlled nuclear fusion for energy production. General differences between nuclear fission
and nuclear fusion Aspect Nuclear Fusion Nuclear Fission Definition Process of combining light atomic
nuclei. Process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus Fuel Isotopes of hydrogen (e.g., deuterium) Fissionable
isotopes (e.g., uranium-235) Temperature and Pressure Requires extremely high temperatures and pressures
Can occur at lower temperatures and pressures Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Achieving controlled reactions is
challenging Reactions can be controlled using control rods Waste Products Produces fewer long-lived
radioactive waste products Produces radioactive waste, including spent fuel and fission products Applications
Potential future energy source (experimental) Current use in electricity weapons, and propulsion generation,
Natural Occurrence Naturally occurs in stars (e.g., the Sun) Does not occur naturally in a sustained way.
Benefits of Nuclear Energy
1. This produces a lot of energy. 1 Kg. 5.38 times 1023 MW electron volt is obtained.
2. Reduction in GHG emissions
3. Stable and reliable energy
4. Operating costs will reduce.

Challenges of Nuclear Energy


1. Incurring higher costs.
2. Extensive damage in case of accident.
3. Time consuming. Construction of a reactor usually takes 25 to 30 years.
4. Storage of waste materials
5. Land acquisition problem.
At present, in view of its challenges, many countries have tried to reduce their dependence on nuclear energy.
France, which is the world's largest nuclear energy producer, has announced a reduction. Sweden has shut down
all its nuclear plants. However, Japan has announced a policy in 2020 to extend the life of old nuclear reactors.
India is promoting nuclear energy programs within certain limits to establish its energy security. Keeping in
mind its security management, the Indian government has proposed to set up nuclear plants in plain areas, such
as Haryana, Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, etc., in addition to peninsular areas. This has also been
widely opposed. Keeping in mind these challenges and other forms of energy, the Indian government has
announced to promote other renewable energy.
India has signed agreements with several countries to establish energy security and to operate nuclear reactors.
1. Indo-US Agreement
2. India-Kazakhstan Agreement
3. Agreement with France for technology, besides agreement with Canada, Mongolia.

In India, uranium is produced at Jadugoda in Jharkhand. Therefore, India has to depend on other countries to get
uranium.

  

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
17 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)

ENERGY

Energy: - Energy is the basic element of development of any nation. It is also called the Backbone of the Industry.
Due to the changing global scenario in recent times, the world has witnessed an energy crisis. India has also been
continuously affected by it. The energy crisis has increased due to the increasing gap between the ever-increasing
demand and supply. According to IER-II (Integrated Energy Report) 2016 released by Niti Aayog in 2016, India will
require 800 GW (8 lakh) of energy by 2030. Whereas the current production is about 300 GW. According to this
report, our dependence on fossil fuels will continue.

Non-renewable (Conventional) Energy Resources


Non-renewable energy sources are those that cannot be replenished or take a very long time to form. They are
limited and include fossil fuels such as coal, petroleum, and natural gas, as well as asphalt, bio asphalt, LPG
(Liquefied Petroleum Gas), PNG (Piped Natural Gas), CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas),
and various types of natural gases such as sweet and sour gases.
Here are the following non-renewable energy sources:
• Coal: Coal is a solid fossil fuel that forms from ancient plant matter over millions of years. It is mainly
used in electricity generation and industrial processes that require heat.
• Petroleum: This liquid fossil fuel, also known as crude oil, is widely used for transportation fuels such as
gasoline and diesel, and as a raw material for chemicals and plastics.
• LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas): LPG is a byproduct of natural gas processing and petroleum refining and
is widely used as a fuel in heating appliances, cooking equipment, and vehicles.
• PNG (Piped Natural Gas): PNG is mainly methane, with small amounts of other hydrocarbons. It is
supplied through mild steel (MS) and polyethylene (PE) pipes to meet the demand for natural gas mainly
for domestic cooking and heating, as well as various industrial applications.

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Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
18 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• CNG (Compressed Natural Gas): CNG is methane stored at high pressure. It is used as a cleaner
alternative to gasoline and diesel in vehicles.
• LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas): LNG is natural gas (natural gas's largest component is methane. It also
contains small amounts of natural gas liquids and non-hydrocarbon gases such as carbon dioxide and
water vapor) that have been cooled to a liquid state for ease of storage and transportation. It is used for
heating, cooking, and as fuel for trucks and ships.
• Sweet and Sour Gas: These are types of natural gas. Sweet gas has low sulfur content, making it less
corrosive and more environmentally friendly, while sour gas has a higher concentration of hydrogen
sulfide and requires more processing to make it safe for use.

• It is the main source of fossil fuel, which is obtained from sedimentary rocks. About -2% coal is found in
Gondwana (about 9.3%) and Tertiary region of India. These can generally be divided into four parts on the
basis of quality.
1. Lignite: - It contains 28 to 30% carbon.
2. Peat Coal: - The amount of carbon in it is 27%
3. Bituminous coal: - 78.86%
4. Anthracite Coal: - 94-98%
• In India, the biggest coal depositor state is Jharkhand. Whereas the main producer state is Chhattisgarh.
The role of coal in total energy production is approximately 85% of non-renewable energy. Non-Renewable
-56.9%, Renewable -43.1%,
• India ranks fifth (5) in total coal production globally and produces 700 to 800 million tonnes of coal every
year. To meet its demand, it imports 200 to 300 million tonnes from other countries. To ensure energy
self-sufficiency, the Coal Mines Nationalisation Act was first passed in 1973.
• Due to which coal fields were nationalized. Coal India Limited (CIL) was established in 1975. Which has a
share of 82% in total coal production. The Government of India implemented the Coal Policy 2020 under
the Self-reliant India Scheme in 2020. Under which-
1. Commercial mining was approved in the coal sector.
2. 50 new coal blacks were allotted.
3. Infrastructure will be developed in coal areas at a cost of Rs 50 thousand crore.
4. Announced a special economic package on production of gas from coal (Coal Gasification).
 Key Challenges: -
1. Lack of new technology.
2. Decrease in investment and competition.
3. Mining is a subject of the Concurrent List.

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Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
19 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Many reforms are required to be done to overcome these challenges. Without removing them, establishing energy
security will remain a major challenge. Such as: -
1. Promote the gasification process.
2. Promoting conveyor belt technology.
3. To encourage investment
4. To promote the extraction of coal bed methane.
Renewable (Non-Conventional) Energy Resources
Renewable energy sources are diverse and sustainable. They are used to generate energy through natural
processes. Their forms include solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, and ocean energy (which includes Ocean
Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and tidal energy), biomass energy (biofuels), and wave energy. Each of these
sources has specific characteristics and types.
• In line with the Prime Minister's announcement at COP26, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is
working towards achieving 500 GW of non-fossil-based electricity generation capacity by 2030.
• India ranks 4th globally in renewable energy installed capacity, 4th in wind power capacity and 5th in
solar power capacity (according to International Renewable Energy Agency - Renewable Capacity Statistics
2023).

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
20 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Solar Energy
• Solar Energy :- The energy obtained from the sun through solar technology is called solar energy.
NOTE: - Energy is obtained through the process of nuclear fusion in the sun or stars. In this, the hydrogen
isotope deuterium combines to form a large molecule of helium. The hydrogen bomb works on this
principle. It is also known as uncontrolled reaction. Two types of techniques are used to obtain solar energy.
• SOLAR PHOTO VOLTAIC Technology: - In this, the sun's rays called PHOTON are absorbed through the
solar plate. This absorption is absorbed by the layer made of silicon and phosphorus which is generally
called N-Type. After this, it is reflected by the layer made of silicon and boron which is called P-Type.
Where solar energy is converted into other energy by P-N-Junction.

Solar Photo Voltaic is used in Solar Roof Top. Which can be used to obtain energy.
• Solar photo voltaic Solar thermal concentrator: This is a technology that produces heat by focusing
sunlight onto a small area. This heat can be used for a variety of applications, such as power generation,
industrial processes, and domestic use. There are several types of solar thermal concentrators, including:
• Parabolic mirrors: These mirrors focus sunlight onto a single point, called a receiver. The receiver
contains a fluid, which heats up and forms steam. The steam is used to drive a turbine to generate
electricity.
• Heliostat: These mirrors focus sunlight onto a central receiver. Heliostats are used for large-scale power
generation.
• Dish concentrators: These mirrors focus sunlight onto a small receiver. Dish concentrators are used for
small-scale power generation and industrial processes.
 Solar Parks

The scheme for “Development of Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects” was launched in
December 2014 with a total capacity of 20,000 MW. Further, the capacity of the Solar Park Scheme was
further enhanced from 20,000 MW in March 2017 to 40,000 MW by 2025-26.
• As on 30-11-2023, the Ministry has approved 50 solar parks with a total capacity of about 37,490 MW in 12
states across the country.
• Solar projects of a total capacity of 10,401 MW have been commissioned in these approved parks, out of
which a capacity of 284 MW will be commissioned in calendar year 2023.
 PM KUSUM

The Government has approved the expansion of PM KUSUM scheme, including revised targets of
installation/solarization of 49 lakh pumps under Components B and C of the scheme.
• The scheme guidelines have been revised to simplify the land aggregation process in Component 'C'.
• The Ministry has released the empanelled list of vendors and benchmark cost under Component 'B'
during July and September 2023 respectively.
 Rooftop Solar

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Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
21 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• About 741 MW capacity has been installed under the grid-connected rooftop solar programme during
January to November 2023. An additional capacity of about 2.77 GW has been installed across all sectors
with or without central financial assistance during this period.
• Phase II of the Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Programme extended to March 31, 2026.
• Areas of Presence: Solar power projects in India are spread across various states. The ranking of states
according to current solar power installations is as follows: Rajasthan (17.8 GW), Gujarat (10.13 GW),
Karnataka (9.05 GW), Tamil Nadu (6.8 GW) and Maharashtra (4.8 GW).
Wind energy
• A process of generating electricity by converting the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy using
wind turbines.
 Current Capacity and Development
• Installed Capacity: As of August 2023, India's total installed wind power capacity was 44 GW (the target for
the year 2030 is 140 GW), making it the fourth largest country in the world in terms of wind power
capacity.
 Areas of Presence:
• Geographical Spread: Major wind energy installations are found in states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat,
Maharashtra, and Karnataka, which have favourable wind conditions.
• Wind Parks: India has developed several large wind parks. Examples include Jaisalmer Wind Park (1064
MW), Muppandal Wind Farm (1500 MW), etc.

Geothermal Energy
• Geothermal energy is derived from the natural heat of the Earth, typically from areas with volcanic or
tectonic activity.
• Properties: It provides a constant and reliable energy source with minimal environmental impact.
• Current Capacity and Potential Installed Capacity: As of 2023, India has not yet started commercial power
production from geothermal energy. However, the potential is significant. Site exploration is currently
going on in Puga Valley of Ladakh. India is also exploring sites in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Potential Capacity: Estimates suggest that India has the capacity to generate around 10 GW of geothermal
energy.
 Areas of Presence
• Geothermal Sites: India has identified several geothermal fields, with notable ones in the Himalayan
region, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh.
• Hot Springs: There are about 340 identified geothermal hot springs across the country, mostly in regions
with volcanic activity.
Ocean Energy

• Ocean energy encompasses various methods of harnessing energy from the ocean, including thermal
gradients, tides, and waves.
• Properties: Ocean energy is a vast, largely untapped renewable resource, offering significant potential for
coastal regions.
 Current Capacity and Potential
• Installed Capacity: As of 2023, India has not yet realised significant commercial capacity in ocean energy.

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
22 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Potential Capacity: India is estimated to have a theoretical potential of about 54 gigawatts (GW) of ocean
energy, including tidal and wave energy.
• Areas of Presence: Potential Sites: The Gulf of Kutch and the Gulf of Cambay are identified as potential
sites for tidal energy. The long coastline of India offers numerous locations for wave energy and OTEC.
Hydrogen Fuel
It is a versatile and clean form of energy that has the potential to play a crucial role in a sustainable and low
carbon energy future. It can be classified into different types based on its production methods and sources. The
three main types are:
• Grey Hydrogen
→ Production Method: Grey hydrogen is produced through a process called steam methane reforming
(SMR) or other methods that use fossil fuels, such as natural gas.
→ Environmental Impact: This method releases carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct, making grey
hydrogen less environmentally friendly compared to other types.
→ Usage: Grey hydrogen has been historically the most common type of hydrogen produced, but its
environmental impact has led to increased interest in cleaner alternatives.
• Blue Hydrogen
→ Production Method: Blue hydrogen is also produced through steam methane reforming (SMR) or
other methods using fossil fuels, but the carbon emissions are captured and stored using carbon
capture and storage (CCS) technologies. Environmental Impact: While it still relies on fossil fuels, the
integration of CCS reduces the carbon footprint, making blue hydrogen a cleaner option compared to
grey hydrogen.
→ Usage: Blue hydrogen is considered a transitional option on the path to a fully renewable hydrogen
economy.
• Green Hydrogen:
→ Production Method: Green hydrogen is produced through the process of electrolysis, using
renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydropower to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
→ Environmental Impact: Green hydrogen is considered the most environmentally friendly option
since it is produced without emitting carbon dioxide, making it a key component in efforts to
achieve a carbon-neutral or low-carbon future.
→ Usage: Green hydrogen is seen as a sustainable and long-term solution for various applications,
including transportation, industry, and energy storage.
 National Green Hydrogen Mission
On 4th January 2023, the Union Cabinet approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an outlay of
₹ 19,744 crore from FY 2023-24 to FY 2029-30. The overarching objective of the Mission is to make India a global hub
for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. The following components have been
announced as part of the Mission: Facilitating demand creation through exports and domestic utilization;
Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme, which includes incentives for
manufacturing of electrolysers and production of green
hydrogen.
• Pilot Projects for steel, mobility, shipping etc.
• Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs.
• Support for infrastructure development.
• Establishing a robust framework of regulations and standards.
• Research & Development programme.
• Skill development programme; and public awareness and outreach programme.
Government Initiatives

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
23 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 UJALA Scheme
• The UJALA (Unnat Jeevan by Affordable LEDs and Appliances for All) scheme is a significant initiative by
the Government of India aimed at promoting energy efficiency and environmental conservation. It was
launched on May 1st, 2015.
• Ministry responsible: Ministry of power
 KUSUM Scheme
• The PM-KUSUM was launched by the MNRE in 2019 in order to endow installation of off-grid solar pumps
in rural areas and reduce dependence on grid in grid connected areas.
• Components: Installation of grid-connected plants; installation of Off-grid Solar Pumps and Solarization
of Existing Grid-connected Agricultural Pumps Ministry responsible: Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy
 Atal Jyoti Yojana (AJAY)
• A scheme to provide solar street lighting in areas where grid power is either unavailable or unreliable. It
focuses on lighting up streets using solar power, thereby reducing dependence on conventional electricity
and promoting renewable energy.
• Ministry responsible: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
 Biomass Energy
• Bagasse as biofuel:- Indian sugar mills are rapidly turning to bagasse, the leftover of cane after it is
crushed and its juice extracted, to generate electricity.
• Biogas plant:- The biogas plant consists of two components: a digester (or fermentation tank) and a gas
holder. Cow dung or faeces are collected and put in a biogas digester or fermenter (a large vessel in which
fermentation can take place). A series of chemical reactions occur in the presence of methanogenic
bacteria (CH4 generating bacteria) leading to the production of CH4 and CO2.
BIOMASS GASIFICATION
Biomass gasification is thermo-chemical conversion of biomass into a combustible gas mixture (producer gas)
through a partial combustion route with air supply restricted to less than that theoretically required for full
combustion.

Generations of Biofuels

Generation I Generation II Generation III Generation IV

• Derived from food • Produced from non- • Derived from algae & • An extension generation III
crops. food crops. other microbes. biofuel. of
• Crops like wheat, • Lignocellulosic • Cultivable land not • Algae is modified via genetic
• sugarcane, soybean, biomass such as wood, required. engineering to alter the
etc. Biochemical agricultural residues, • Fastest growing properties & cellular
methods like forestry wastes, feedstocks among all metabolism.
fermentation or organic wastes, etc. other sources. • High yield with high lipid
hydrolysis are • Biochemical & or • Biochemical &/or containing algae.
employed to convert thermochemical thermochemical • More CO2 capture ability
them to biofuels. methods are used to methods are employed. • Higher production rate.
• Responsible for food synthesize biofuels. • Extensive downstream • High initial investment but
v/s fuel debate. • "Biomass to liquid" fuel processing such as economical in long run.
concept employed. dewatering is required.

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Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
24 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology
• Hydrogen fuel cells are a technology that generates electricity through a chemical reaction between
hydrogen and oxygen. The process produces only water and heat as byproducts, making it a clean energy
source.
Advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells:
• Clean energy: Hydrogen fuel cells have no harmful emissions, making them great for the environment.
• High efficiency: Hydrogen fuel cells are more efficient than traditional power generation methods.
• Low noise: Hydrogen fuel cell generators make very little noise.
• Fuel flexibility: Hydrogen can be obtained from a variety of sources, such as natural gas, coal, and
renewable energy sources.
Applications of Hydrogen Fuel Cell:
• Transportation: Hydrogen fuel cells can power vehicles, paving the way for zero-emission transportation.
• Electricity generation: Hydrogen fuel cells can generate electricity for homes and businesses.
• Portable power: Hydrogen fuel cells can power laptops, mobile phones, and other devices.
Challenges of Hydrogen Fuel Cells:
• High cost: Hydrogen fuel cell technology is still relatively expensive.
• Hydrogen storage: Hydrogen is difficult to store, as it is a light gas that can easily leak.
• Infrastructure: Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles require a hydrogen fuelling station network.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology has the potential to transform the way energy is produced in the future.
However, several challenges need to be addressed before this technology can be widely adopted. Hydrogen fuel
cells are a promising technology that could become an important source of clean and sustainable energy in
the future.

  

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
25 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)

Renewable energy potential and current scenario in Bihar


• To curb the challenges of global warming and climate change, the renewable energy appears to be one of
the most viable options for conservation of environment for our future generations. But Bihar has limited
availability of natural sources for generation of renewable energy. Since Bihar geographically lies in plains,
there is very less potential for generation of hydroelectric power. On the other hand, best-suited
geographical sites for installation of wind mills to produce electricity are either offshore or in coastal areas,
or at the top of rounded hillocks or in open valleys between the gaps of mountains where velocity of wind
flow is strong and reliable. Therefore, insufficient wind power also cannot be exploited for power
generation.
• Among other various sources for generation of renewable energy, Bihar is having potential only in solar
energy, with bright and adequate sunshine round the year. However, there are two hindrances - one,
because of its fertile land, most of the agricultural fields are covered with yielding crops round the year,
and two, because of high density of population, the urban areas also have limited vacant spaces. Only a few
percent of areas are of utility for generation of solar energy.
• The State government has launched the ambitious Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission in 2019, under which, one of
the objectives is to promote the use of Solar Energy & Save Energy. Under this scheme, all government
buildings will have solar panels fitted on their roof-tops and will be connected with power grids. The plan
is to produce some additional 150-200 MW of Solar Power, of which around 50 MW has been commissioned
by now. The State has ambitious plans to develop around 1 GW of renewable power in the near future.
• According to the Economic Survey 2023-24, the production of thermal power energy in Bihar is 68.9 percent
and the production of renewable energy is 31.1 percent. According to the Economic Survey, in the year 2025-
26, the share of thermal power energy in the total energy production will be 65.3 percent and the share of
renewable energy will be 34.7 percent.
 Solar Plants by Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA)
To promote the use of renewable energy, the State government has created an agency called Bihar Renewable
Energy Development Agency (BREDA). It is currently executing the installation of Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar
Power Plants, Floating Solar Power Plants, Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plant, Off-Grid Hybrid Rooftop Solar
Power Plant and Solar Street Lights under various schemes to promote and disseminate renewable energy
technology across Bihar and to increase the share of renewable energy mix which also results in reduction in
carbon emission. This will contribute to global efforts towards reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a clean
environment. Following are the works being done by BREDA:
• Grid-Connected Rooftop (GCRT) Solar Power Plant at Government Buildings : Under 'Mukhyamantri
Navin Evam Navikarniya Saur Adhisthapan Yojana' and 'Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission', Grid-Connected
Rooftop Solar Power Plants are being installed by BREDA. These power plants have a capacity of up to 500
KWp. These plants will save electricity bill of the various State government offices and promote use of
renewable energy in the state. The State government buildings covered by the scheme are- Samvad
Bhawan, CM House, Patna High Court, Bihar Museum, Buddha Smriti Park, Planetarium, IGIMS, various
ITIS, BDO offices, Primary Health Centers, Panchayat Sarkar Bhawan, Government High Schools, etc.
Between 2018-19 and 2022-23, a total of 2479 Solar Power Plants have been installed, having a total capacity
of 20.70 MW at a cost of Rs. 100 crore.
• Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plants at Private Residential Buildings : Under 'Mukhyamantri
Navin evam Navikarniya Saur Adhisthapan Yojana', Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plants have also
been installed at private residential buildings by BREDA. In 2019-20, a total of 113 Solar Power Plants have
been installed at private residential buildings, which together have 583 KWp capacity at the cost of Rs. 3.08
crore.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
26 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Floating Solar Power Plant: Floating Solar Power Plant is an emerging technology in the field of Solar
Energy. In this technology, the solar power plant is installed on the water bodies and the land requirement
is negligible. In addition, with the floating solar panels, the evaporation rate from water bodies is
significantly reduced, thus also helping in water conservation. With the water body beneath, the solar
modules are able to maintain their ambient temperature and thereby improving their efficiency. Keeping
these considerations in mind and scarcity of land in Bihar, the State government has taken an initiative
for the installation of Floating Solar Power Plant in Supaul and Darbhanga districts under Niche Machhli
Upar Bijli concept. The Floating Solar Power Plant of capacity 525 KWp has been installed under state plan
at Rajapokhar (Supaul) at the cost of Rs. 3.00 crore, which is functional since Aug 2022 and the Floating
Solar Power Plant of capacity 1600 KWp has been installed at Naka No. 1 (Darbhanga) at the cost of Rs. 8.55
crore. The plant is functional since March 2022 and the generated power is purchased by BSPHCL at the
rate of 4.15 paise/unit through a PPA effective for 25 years.
• Solar Water Pumps: Solar Water Pump is an application of photovoltaic technology that uses solar power
to run irrigation pump-sets, replacing diesel operated pumps. Under 'Mukhyamantri Navin Evam
Navikariya Saur Pump Yojana', 2771 Solar Water Pumps have been installed at the cost of Rs. 77.16 crore.
• 250 MW Grid-Connected Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plant: A Grid-Connected Ground-Mounted Solar
Power Plant is electricity generating solar PV (Photovoltaic) plant that is connected to the utility grid. A
grid-connected PV system consists of solar panels, central inverters and IDT (Inverter Duty Transformer)
and other grid connecting equipment. To fulfil the Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) of the State
government and contribution towards the ambitious target of the Central government of generating 500
GW Renewable Power by 2030, Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plants are now under process of installation in
the state. At present, the required land has been acquired in Jamui and Banka districts and erection work
of Solar Plant is being done by M/S SJVN Limited for a capacity of 200 MW and by M/s Avaada Energy for a
capacity of 50 MW. After commissioning of the solar power plants, the generated power will be purchased
by BSPHCL at the rate of 3.11 paise/unit through a PPA effective for 25 years.
• Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plant at Government Buildings under Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali
Mission Phase-II: Under 'Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission' Phase-II, Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plants
are being installed by BREDA, with system capacity 2 to 500 KWp on government buildings under different
departments. Work order for installation of 40 MW Rooftop Solar Power Plant at 4567 government buildings
has been issued. The work has started in 2022-23 and at present 16.25 MW Solar Power plants at 1,032
buildings have been installed. Total project cost is approx. Rs. 200 crore.
• Hybrid (Off-Grid) Rooftop Solar Power Plant at Government Buildings : Installation of Hybrid (Off-
Grid) Rooftop Solar Power Plants has been done by BREDA to provide battery backup power during grid
failure or in emergency at various State government offices, such as BSEIDC (Bihar State Educational
Infrastructure Development Corporation) buildings in Gaya, Kishanganj and Muzaffarpur districts. At
present, the total installed capacity of such Solar Power Plants is 409 KWp. The cost for this project is Rs.
3.96 crore.
 Solar Plants by Bihar State Power Generation Company Ltd. (BSPGCL)
The State Government has also nominated Bihar State Power Generation Company Ltd. (BSPGCL) as Nodal/
Implementing Agency for installation of solar power projects at Kajra and Pirpainti and on land available
alongside Canals and Dams in Bihar. BSPGCL has also been nominated as Nodal/ Implementing Agency for:
(a) Installation of floating solar power plants above 1 MW in all types of water bodies,
(b) Installation of Ground-Mounted Solar Plants above 1 MW on unused/infertile land in Ihar, and
(c) Installation of Biomass & Bagasse Power Plants above 1 MW in Bihar.
Progress of work taken up by BSPGCL under Renewable Power Projects is given below:

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
27 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
(i) Solar Power Project at Kajra (Lakhisarai) and Pirpainti (Bhagalpur) : Kajra (Lakhisarai) and Pirpainti
(Bhagalpur) were initially earmarked for construction of thermal power plants. Adequate land parcel has
been successfully identified and acquired at both these locations. Subsequently, a decision was taken to
construct solar power plants at these locations, of the capacity ranging 400-450 MW in lieu of the originally
planned thermal power plants. This transition was aimed at generating eco-friendly green power. To
facilitate the development of these solar power projects, a consultant has been appointed for preparation of
comprehensive feasibility report, Detailed Project Report (DPR) and other associated tasks. The DPR and
tender documents for selection of an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor for
establishment of 185 MW (AC) Solar Power plant equipped with 254 MWh Battery Energy Storage System
(BESS) have been prepared and tender is being processed. This solar power plant will have the capacity to
store 20 percent of solar energy generated during the day time within high-capacity batteries. This stored
energy will then be readily available for distribution after sunset, meeting the increased energy demand
during evening hours.
(ii) Solar Power Project at Water Bodies : Bihar is a state with limited land resources, but abundant solar
potential. That's why BSPGCL is dedicated to find innovative solutions for harnessing solar energy on water
bodies, such as canals, dams and reservoirs. BSPGCL has identified Vikram Lock at Patna for installation of 2
MW Solar Power Plant on the Canal Bank as a pilot project. The Water Resource Department, Government of
Bihar has granted the No Objection Certificate (NOC) for this project. BSPGCL is inviting proposals from
interested parties who can set up and operate the plant under RESCO mode for 25 years. BSPGCL has also
identified Phulwaria Dam in the Nawada district as an ideal location for installation of 10 MW floating solar
power plant. This innovative project will serve a dual purpose of nurturing aquatic life below the water
surface while harnessing solar energy above it, aligning with our mission for sustainable green energy (as per
Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali mission objective). The NOC is being obtained from the Water Resources Department,
Government of Bihar for further processing.
(iii) 24x7 Hybrid Green Power: To promote the objectives of the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission in the state, it was
decided to select few towns of the state and make them as GREEN Towns in respect of power. In other words,
the power supplied to the said towns will be wholly through renewable energy sources and on round-the-
clock basis. For this, Rajgir, Bodh Gaya and some parts of Patna towns were selected. An agreement has been
executed with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) for supply of 210 MW GREEN Power to these identified
towns. As per the terms of the agreement, solar power will be supplied during the daytime and, for the period
of sunset to next sun-rise, the power will be supplied from Pump Storage Plant run on Solar Power. The
project is expected to be completed by March 2024.
• As per the guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) under GCRT
Phase-II scheme, the distribution companies are designated as the nodal agencies for implementing
Residential Solar Rooftop projects in the state. MNRE allocated 5 MW Rooftop Solar capacity for Bihar (3
MW for SBPDCL and 2 MW for NBPDCL) in 2019-20, additional 20 MW capacity has been sanctioned by
MNRE for installation of rooftop solar plants which is under progress. Apart from the Central government
subsidy, the State government has also allowed additional 25 percent subsidy for all loads for installation of
Solar Rooftop Plants that are grid connected. Online applications were invited from interested consumers
through web portal for its installation. The work is under progress, and, till September 2023, solar panels
have been installed at the premises of 1780 households with a capacity of 6630 KW. District-wise
installation of Grid Connected Rooftop Solar Plants is given in Table A 8.3 (Appendix).

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
28 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 Hydel Power
• Bihar is deprived of rich hydel power potential due to changing course of rivers and flood-prone areas in
North Bihar. The rivers in South Bihar lack adequate discharge round the year and also do not have
sufficient head for exploitation of hydel potential. Hence, construction of large hydroelectric power projects
is uneconomical and commercially unviable due to geographical conditions. Yet, hydel potential is being
harnessed by constructing mini and small hydroelectric plants at different feasible locations. The Bihar
State Hydroelectric Power Corporation (BSHPC) has been established to oversee the expansion of
hydroelectric power projects in the state. At present, 13 mini and small hydel projects are operational in
the state, with a total installed capacity of 54.3 MW. BSHPC is also in the process of constructing 11 more
mini hydel power projects, which together have a capacity of 9.3 MW.

  

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
29 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)

BIOFUEL, BIOMASS AND BIOGAS

Biofuel
Biofuels: are renewable energy sources derived from organic materials like plants, algae, and waste. They
are used as alternatives to fossil fuels for transportation and electricity generation. Biofuels, such as ethanol and
biodiesel, help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable energy, promoting a
sustainable energy future. Biofuels have the following type such as Ethanol, Biodiesel, Biogas, Bioethanol, Algal
Biofuels, Biobutanol & Wood and Pellet Fuels.
 Applications of Biofuels
• Transportation
→ Ethanol is used as a gasoline additive or substitute in vehicles.
→ Biodiesel replaces or blends with conventional diesel fuel in cars, trucks, and buses.
→ Biobutanol serves as a gasoline substitute, offering higher energy content.
• Electricity Generation
→ Biogas is used in power plants to generate electricity from organic waste, such as agricultural residues
or landfills.
→ Biomass (wood, pellets) is burned in power plants to generate heat and electricity.
• Heating
→ Wood pellets and other solid biofuels are used in stoves, boilers, and home heating systems.
→ Biogas can be used for heating purposes in households or industries.
• Industry
→ Biofuels provide heat and power to industrial processes, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
→ Biofuels can be used in manufacturing, particularly in industries that require high heat.
• Aviation
→ Bio jet fuels, made from renewable sources like algae and plant oils, are being developed for use in
aircraft, reducing aviation’s carbon footprint.
• Agriculture
→ Biofuels like biogas and biodiesel are used to power agricultural machinery, reducing reliance on
petroleum-based fuels.
• Marine Transport
→ Biodiesel and bioethanol are being tested and used as eco-friendly alternatives in marine vessels,
reducing emissions in shipping.
Biofuels play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting energy security, and supporting
sustainable development across multiple sectors.
 Significance of Biofuels
• Efficient Fuel: Biofuel is made from renewable resources and relatively less-flammable compared to fossil
diesel. It has significantly better lubricating properties. It causes less harmful carbon emission compared

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
30 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
to standard diesel. Biofuels can be manufactured from a wide range of materials. The overall cost-benefit
of using them is much higher.
• Durability of Vehicles’ Engine: Biofuels are adaptable to current engine designs and perform very well in
most conditions. It has higher cetane and better lubricating properties. When biodiesel is used as a
combustible fuel, the durability of the engine increases. There is also no need for engine conversion.
• Renewable: Most of the fossil fuels will expire and end up in smoke one day. Since most of the sources like
manure, corn, switchgrass, soybeans, waste from crops and plants are renewable and are not likely to run
out any time soon, it makes the use of biofuels efficient in nature. Also, these crops can be replanted again
and again.
• Security: Biofuels can be produced locally, which decreases the nation’s dependence upon foreign energy.
By reducing dependence on foreign fuel sources, countries can protect the integrity of their energy
resources and make them safe from outside influences.
• Economic Stimulation: Because biofuels are produced locally, biofuel manufacturing plants can employ
hundreds or thousands of workers, creating new jobs in rural areas. Biofuel production will also increase
the demand for suitable biofuel crops, providing economic stimulation to the agriculture industry.
 Advantages of Biofuels
• Renewable: Biofuels are derived from organic materials, which can be replenished, making them a
sustainable energy source.
• Carbon Neutral: They release carbon dioxide that plants absorbed during growth, helping to maintain a
balanced carbon cycle and reduce net emissions.
• Reduces Greenhouse Gases: Biofuels generally produce fewer harmful emissions compared to fossil fuels,
contributing to the fight against climate change.
• Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels by utilizing locally sourced materials,
promoting national energy independence.
• Waste Utilization: Converts agricultural, industrial, and household waste into energy, helping to manage
waste and reduce landfill usage.
• Job Creation: The biofuel industry creates employment opportunities in farming, production, and
research, particularly in rural areas.
• Versatility: Biofuels can be used in various forms, including liquid fuels (ethanol, biodiesel), gases (biogas),
and even solid fuels (biomass).
• Economic Growth: Supports rural economies by promoting agricultural growth and providing new
markets for crops and waste products.
 Various Initiatives by Government
1. Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana, 2019: The objective of the scheme is to create an ecosystem for setting
up commercial projects and to boost Research and Development in 2G Ethanol sector.
2. GOBAR (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources) DHAN scheme, 2018: It focuses on managing and
converting cattle dung and solid waste in farms to useful compost, biogas and bio-CNG, thus keeping
villages clean and increasing the income of rural households. It was launched under Swachh Bharat
Mission (Gramin).
3. Ethanol Blending Programme through National Biofuel Policy 2018
→ It has the objective of reaching 20% ethanol-blending and 5% biodiesel-blending by the year 2030.
→ The Government has also reduced GST on ethanol for blending in fuel from 18% to 5%.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
31 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
4. Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) launched by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
aims for an ecosystem that will enable the collection and conversion of used cooking oil to biodiesel.
5. The Department of Biotechnology (Ministries of Science and Technology) successfully developed 2G
Ethanol and transferred the technology to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
6. The Department of Biotechnology developed Indigenous Cellulolytic Enzyme for the production of
biofuels.
 Concerns With Biofuels
• Competition with Food Production: Using food crops like corn or sugarcane for biofuel production can
lead to higher food prices and food shortages, affecting global food security.
• Land Use and Deforestation: Large-scale biofuel production may lead to deforestation and the
conversion of natural ecosystems into agricultural land, reducing biodiversity.
• Water Usage: Growing biofuel crops requires significant water resources, which could strain water
supplies in arid regions and affect agricultural systems.
• Energy-Intensive Production: The process of growing, harvesting, and converting biomass into fuel can
be energy-intensive, sometimes offsetting the environmental benefits.
• Emissions from Production: Although biofuels burn cleaner than fossil fuels, their production can still
release greenhouse gases, particularly if fertilizers, pesticides, and heavy machinery are involved.
• Monoculture Farming: Relying on a single crop for biofuel production can lead to soil depletion, loss of
biodiversity, and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
• Land-Use Change: Converting land for biofuel crops may displace other forms of agriculture or natural
habitats, leading to unintended environmental consequences.
• Cost and Efficiency: Biofuels, especially second- and third-generation biofuels, can still be expensive to
produce and may not be as efficient as other renewable energy sources.
• The future of biofuels lies in advancing technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize
environmental impact. Research into second, third, and fourth-generation biofuels, such as algae and
waste-based fuels, along with better production methods, will drive their widespread adoption, making
biofuels a key component of sustainable energy systems.
• Biofuels offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, helping reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and promote energy independence. By utilizing renewable resources and waste products, they
contribute to economic growth, job creation, and energy security. With continued innovation, biofuels can
play a significant role in a greener future.

Biomass
Biomass energy is a renewable energy source derived from organic materials like plant residues, agricultural
waste, and animal manure. It converts biological matter into electricity, heat, or biofuels. As a sustainable
alternative to fossil fuels, biomass helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports waste management while
promoting energy independence.
 Significance of Biomass Energy
• Renewable Resource: Utilizes organic waste, ensuring sustainability.
• Carbon Neutral: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by recycling carbon already in the ecosystem.
• Energy Diversification: Decreases dependence on fossil fuels.
• Waste Management: Converts agricultural, industrial, and household waste into energy.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
32 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Economic Growth: Promotes rural development and job creation in energy production.
• Versatility: Generates electricity, heat, and biofuels for various applications.
 Role of Bioenergy in Meeting India’s Energy Demands
• Energy Demand: Bioenergy can help to meet the growing demand for energy within the country,
especially in rural areas. Nearly 25% of its primary energy comes from biomass resources and close to 70%
of rural population depend on biomass to meet their daily energy needs. Biomass can further help in
meeting rural energy demands.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Bioenergy provides important benefits compared to fossil fuels, in particular
regarding GHG emissions. Biomass recycles carbon from the air and spares the use of fossil fuels, reducing
the additional fossil carbon from the ground into the atmosphere.
• Market Growth: The market for renewable energy systems in rural and urban markets in India is set to
grow exponentially. Despite this, bioenergy does not figure in most energy studies and is classified as ‘non-
commercial’ energy. Plants like Jatropha, Neem and other wild plants are identified as the potential
sources for biodiesel production in India.
• Biofuels can augment waste to wealth creation. Being a derivative of renewable biomass resources such as
plastic, municipal solid waste, forestry residues, agricultural wastes, surplus food grains etc. it has huge
potential to help the country achieve the renewable energy goal of 500 GW.
• Income Generation: Adopting biofuels as an alternative source of energy can significantly improve
farmers’ income, generate employment opportunities etc.
• Reduce Imports: India’s energy demands met by imports are about 46.13% of total primary energy
consumption. Bioenergy can help in reducing these imports and boost India’s energy security and self-
reliance.
 Various Government Efforts in the Field of Bio-mass Energy
• National Policy on Biofuels: The policy is aimed at taking forward the indicative target of achieving 20%
blending of biofuels with fossil-based fuels by 2025.
• Policy for Biomass and Bagasse Cogeneration: MNRE has further developed a policy for biomass and
bagasse cogeneration that will help in meeting India’s energy demands. It includes financial incentives
and subsidies, both for biomass projects and sugar mills that use this technology.
• 10 GW National Target: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has set the national target is to
achieve 10 GW of installed biomass power by 2022 India current pustuled biomass capacity in carap 10.232
GW
• Fiscal Incentives: Government gives 10 years Income tax holidays. Concessional customs and excise duty
exemption for machinery and components for initial setting up of Biomass power projects. General sales
tax exemption is available in certain States.
• National Biomass Repository: MNRE also plans on creating a ‘National Biomass Repository’ through a
nation-wide appraisal program which will help ensure availability of biofuels produced from domestic
feedstock.
• National Mission on Use of Biomass in Coal-based Thermal Power Plants
→ To address the issue of air pollution due to farm stubble-burning and to reduce carbon footprints of
thermal power generation, the Ministry of Power has decided to set up a National Mission on the use
of Biomass in coal-based thermal power plants.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
33 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
→ The proposed National Mission on biomass will also contribute to the National Clean Air Programme
(NCAP).
→ It would further support the energy transition in the country and our targets to move towards
cleaner energy sources.
 Advantages of Biomass Energy
• Renewable: Derived from organic, naturally replenishing materials.
• Carbon Neutral: Emits only the carbon it absorbed during its lifecycle.
• Waste Reduction: Utilizes agricultural, industrial, and household waste.
• Energy Security: Reduces dependency on fossil fuels.
• Versatile: Produces electricity, heat, and biofuels.
• Economic Benefits: Creates jobs in rural areas and supports local economies.
• Decentralized Production: Allows energy generation closer to consumption points, reducing
transmission losses.
 Concerns With Biomass Energy
• Land Use: Large-scale biomass production may compete with food production, leading to land and
resource shortages.
• Deforestation: Unsustainable harvesting of wood can contribute to deforestation.
• Energy Efficiency: Biomass conversion may be less efficient than other energy sources.
• Carbon Emissions: While carbon-neutral in theory, transportation and processing of biomass can
contribute to emissions.
• Cost: High infrastructure and processing costs for biomass energy production.
• Impact on Biodiversity: Large plantations for biomass can negatively affect ecosystems and wildlife.
• The way forward for biomass energy involves enhancing technology to improve efficiency and reduce
costs, such as developing advanced biogas systems and second-generation biofuels. Strengthening policy
support, incentivizing research, and promoting sustainable sourcing of biomass are essential. Expanding
infrastructure and integrating biomass with other renewable sources can accelerate its role in achieving
energy security and combating climate change.
• Biomass energy offers a sustainable, renewable alternative to fossil fuels, helping reduce waste and
carbon emissions. It provides economic benefits by creating jobs and promoting energy security. With
technological advancements, biomass energy can play a crucial role in a cleaner, more sustainable energy
future.
Biogas
Biogas is a mixture of Methane (CH4), Carbon-dioxide (CO2) and small quantities of other gases. It is produced
by anaerobic fermentation of organic matter in an oxygen-free environment. The precise composition of
biogas depends on the type of feedstock and the production method used. The organic matter to produce biogas
can be biodegradable waste such as agricultural waste, animal waste like dung and segregated organic fraction of
municipal solid waste.
 Advantages of Biogas
• Environment Friendly: It is a renewable and environmentally friendly energy source. Less energy is
required to produce Biogas compared to extracting natural gas.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
34 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Moreover, Methane has higher greenhouse/warming potential than carbon-dioxide. Hence, capturing and
combusting methane to produce carbon-dioxide reduces the overall global warming, compared to a situation
where methane is allowed to escape to the atmosphere.
• Energy Diversification: Biogas production reduces reliance on fossil fuels such as oil and coal.
• Renewable: The raw materials used in biogas production are renewable, as trees and crops will continue
to grow. Manure, food scraps, and crop residue are always available raw materials, making it a highly
sustainable option.
• Reduce Soil and Water Pollution: Producing biogas from waste reduces dumping of wastes in landfills.
Overflowing landfills not only emit foul odours but also allow toxic liquids to enter underground water
sources. As a result, another advantage of biogas is that it may improve water quality. Furthermore,
anaerobic digestion deactivates pathogens and parasites, making it effective in reducing the prevalence
of waterborne diseases.
Similarly, waste collection and management improve dramatically in areas with biogas plants. This, in turn, leads
to improvements in the environment, sanitation, and hygiene.
• Organic Fertilizers: The byproduct of the biogas generation process is enriched organic digestate, which is
an excellent supplement to or replacement for chemical fertilisers. The fertiliser discharge from the
digester can accelerate plant growth and resistance to diseases, whereas commercial fertilisers contain
chemicals that are toxic and can cause food poisoning, besides other harmful effects.
• Promotes Circular Economy: It is a simple and low-cost technology that promotes a circular economy.
The technology used to generate biogas is relatively inexpensive. It is simple to set up and requires little
investment when used on a small scale. Small biodigesters can be used at home, utilising kitchen waste
and animal manure. After a while, a household system pays for itself, and the materials used in
generation are completely free.
Biogas can also be compressed to the quality of natural gas and used to power automobiles in large plants. Such
plants require little capital investment and create green jobs.
• Healthy Alternative for Cooking Fuel: Biogas generators relieve women and children of the laborious
task of gathering firewood. As a result, more time is available for other productive activities. More
importantly, cooking on a biogas rather than an open fire keeps the family safe from smoke in the These
aids in the prevention of deadly respiratory diseases.
• Achieving SDGs: According to the Linköping University’s Biogas Research Center report, Biogas
contributes to all 17 of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
 Challenges associated with Production and Use of Biogas
• Lack of Technological Advances: According to some experts, the systems used to produce biogas are
inefficient. There is lack of a new technology that can simplify the process, make it accessible, and
reduce the cost of doing so. This means that large-scale production to meet the needs of a large
population is still impossible. Although current biogas plants can meet some energy needs, many
governments are unwilling to invest in the sector.
• Impurities: Impurities remain in biogas after refinement and compression. Use of Biogas in automobiles
can corrode the engine’s metal parts. Corrosion would result in higher maintenance costs. The gaseous
mixture is far more appropriate for kitchen stoves, water boilers, and lamps.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
35 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
• Temperature Limitation: Biogas generation, like other renewable energy sources (such as solar and
wind), is influenced by the weather. The ideal temperature for bacteria to digest waste is around
37°C. Digesters in cold climates require heat energy to maintain a constant biogas supply. Hence its use
is limited to warm regions.
• Suitability for Metropolitan Areas: Another disadvantage is that industrial biogas plants only make
sense where raw materials (food waste, manure) are abundant. As a result, biogas generation is much
better suited to rural and suburban areas. The material used in biogas generation emit bad smells.
Hence it is necessary that the plants are sufficiently far from the inhabited areas
• To power a 1MW power plant, at least 300 hectares of land is required, as minimum usable area. Large
quantities of land must therefore be available, which poses a challenge in urban areas.
• Transport: If the plant is located far away, suitable means of transport will be needed to transport the
raw materials and the final product. This will add to costs and emissions.
Biogas can prove to be a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. It is an ideal source to ensure energy security in the
rural areas. It can also contribute to decarbonization of the agriculture sector through conversion of methane.
There is a need to invest in new technologies that can help scale up the use of Biogas in urban areas. This can
help in achieving the climate targets in the long run.

  

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
36 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
Science and Technology in Indian Agriculture
India’s agriculture mainly depends on the nature. However changing climate and global warming are making
farming unpredictable. The need to use modern technologies to increase productivity and profitability has
therefore led to the adoption of Agriculture 4.0 in India.
• There have been significant changes in India in the context of agriculture over the decades with
development of many new technologies. Several new-age farmers are now using soil mapping software to
determine the optimum level of fertilizers used in the farms.
• Application of these emerging technologies in farming and agriculture has paved the way for more
opportunities. The Agro-tech Start-ups and traditional farmers are now said to be using the latest solutions
and trends to improve production in the food value chain, including the adoption of new technologies, such
as cloud-based solutions which offer widespread access to weather forecasts and other critical information and
other relevant advanced agricultural management techniques to increase farmer efficiency and produce more
crops.
 Some Examples include:
1. Grape farmers in India have begun spotting and geo-locating crop diseases or pestilence, allowing them to
control infestations earlier and in a more precise manner leading to lower use of harmful pesticides on
the crop.
2. Soil mapping software is used by several new farmers to determine the optimum level of fertiliser use in
their farms.
3. They are also using drones which allow spraying pesticides in a more targeted manner.
4. Sugarcane farmers in India have started using technology to gauge the most appropriate time to harvest
their crops, which allows them to better plan their harvest and maximise output.
5. Several Indian farmers have also begun to use AI/ML-powered technologies to forecast crop yield, weather
conditions and price trends in mandis.
6. A few farmers have also begun testing self-driving tractors and seed-planting robots to free their farms
from the vagaries of labour shortages.
• Emerging trends in the agricultural sector that are quite prominent in the post-liberalization era include
increased production, increased investment, diversification of the sector, use of modern techniques,
development of horticulture and floriculture, increasing volume of exports and development of the food
processing industry.
The farmers must get advantage of these technologies to increase productivity on their farms.

Some of the recent trends in agricultural technology:


 Agricultural Drone Technology-
• Drones are used widely for medical delivery to protection assistance and are used in agriculture to improve
the growth of crops, maintenance, and cultivation methods. For example, these ariel carriers are used to
access crop conditions and execute better fertilization strategies for more yields. Even the accessibility of
hovering robots helps farmers through a survey of large areas and data collection to generate better
insights about their farms. Using drones in agriculture has provided more frequent, cost-effective remote
monitoring of crops and livestock. It also helps analyse field conditions and determine appropriate
interventions such as fertilizers, nutrients, and pesticides.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
37 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 Diversification of Agriculture
• The agricultural sector produces generic consumption needs as well as crops like fruits, vegetables, spices,
cashews, areca nuts, coconuts, and floral products such as flowers, orchids, etc. With the increasing
demand for these products, there’s a huge potential in terms of production and trade of these products.
This shows how the agricultural sector is being transformed into a dynamic and commercial sector by
shifting the mix of traditional agricultural products towards higher quality products, with a high potential
to accelerate production rates.
• The diversification in agriculture is being supported by changes in technology or consumer demand, trade
or government policy, transportation, irrigation, and other infrastructure developments.

Increasing Trend in Horticulture Production-


• The availability of diverse physiographic, climatic, and soil characteristics enables India to grow various
horticulture crops. It includes fruits, vegetables, spices, cashew, coconut, cocoa, areca etc. The total
horticulture production in FY22 is estimated at 342.333 million tonnes which is an increase of about 7.03
million tonnes (2.10% increase) from 2020-21.
 Development of Agriculture in Backward Areas-
• In the post-green revolution era, the introduction of new agricultural strategies, research, and technology
was mostly limited to producing specific food grains, i.e., wheat and rice. However, under the wave of
liberalization, with the growing demand for agricultural exports, many new sectors of agricultural activities
have become favourable and profitable.
• In some agriculturally backward areas with no irrigation system and access to fewer resources, dryland
farming has been introduced. Other activities were also encouraged such as horticulture, floriculture,
animal husbandry, fisheries, etc. To support the development in those areas, various modern techniques
have been installed in the backward areas.
 Ariel Imaging-
Ariel imaging involves the use of geographic information system (GIS) technology to analyse the potential of
irrigation projects and their impact on land degradation, erosion, and drainage. The visuals of this technology
allow assessment of an individual plant’s foliage. These visuals are actively used to detect pests and diseases to
protect crops from environmental threats. It mostly helps farmers to monitor the soil conditions of farms and is
useful in the summer season when there is the least availability of water.
 Hydroponics and Vertical Farming
• The concept of hydroponics farming focus towards better yields, texture, and taste of the final product
with less water consumption. Plants which are grown hydroponically do not need extensive root systems
and it allows them to contribute more energy towards the production of leaves and fruits. Because of
indoor cultivation, these plants mature quickly and possess better immunity against pests and other
diseases. In the context of sustainability, vertical farming allows farms to be located near or within areas of
high population density which reduces the need for transportation and any harmful emissions. Vertical
farming provides the ability to grow crops in urban environments and contributes to the availability of
fresh foods conveniently. This farming significantly reduces the amount of land space required to grow
crops compared to conventional farming methods.

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703
38 BPSC MAINS NOTES (Science and Tech)
 IoT in Agriculture
• IoT supports agriculture through the installation of various sensors in agricultural farms. These sensors are
used to monitor light, humidity, soil moisture, temperature, crop health, etc. Some of the major uses of IoT
in agriculture are as follows:
• Various farm sensors such as autonomous vehicles, wearables, button cameras, robotics, control systems,
etc help in the collection of data to analyse the performance of the farm.
• Use of aerial and ground-based drones for crop health assessment, irrigation, monitoring and field analysis.
• Use of tools to predict rainfall, temperature, soil, humidity, and other forecasted natural calamities.
 Government Initiatives
• The government has taken various initiatives to enable the potential digitalization of the agricultural
sector in India. It focuses on promoting Agri-tech businesses which are working towards boosting
productivity.
• The government has finalised an India Digital Ecosystem of Agriculture (IDEA) framework that will
establish the architecture for the federated database of farmers. This database is being built by taking the
publicly available data as existing in various schemes and linking them with the digitalized land records.
The IDEA would serve as a foundation to build innovative Agri-focused solutions leveraging emerging
technologies to contribute effectively to creating a better Ecosystem for Agriculture in India. This
Ecosystem shall help the Government in effective planning towards increasing the income of farmers and
improving the efficiency of the agriculture sector.
• To facilitate agricultural engineering research, operations, and technology diffusion, the Central Institute
of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal (ICAR-CIAE) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has
created the Krishi Yantra App. A web portal has been made available by ICAR-CIAE on their website to
guarantee that businesses choose the proper mechanisation technology. This aids current and potential
business owners in choosing machines and purchasing options. The portal also offers the option of user
and specialist engagement.
• Farm Safety app was developed by ICAR-CIAE which provides information about safety guidelines and
Safety Gadgets to avoid accidents while using different types of agricultural machinery.
• A smartphone app called Water Balance Simulation Model for Roof Water Harvesting assists decision-
makers in recommending design criteria. It provides that where the implementation of a roof water
harvesting system may result in water savings and water security.

  

Patna Boring Road Chauraha Centre Mob. 9031053260 | Patna Rajiv Nagar Centre Mob. 8252405793 | Patna Dinkar Galamber Centre Mob. 7322004164 |
Patna Musallahpur Hat Mob. 7250740458 | Gaya Center Mob. 8252507118 | Purnia Centre Mob. 8092086324 | Bihar Sharif Centre Mob. 7004382832 | Ara
Center Mob. 7255092722 | Muzaffarpur Centre Mob. 7707093072 | Siwan Center Mob. 7739620596 | Motihari Centre Mob. 9430052874 | Sasaram Centre
Mob. 8084994876 | Bhagalpur Centre Mob. 9431690496 | Delhi Mukherjee Nagar Centre Mob. 8603855800 | Delhi Karol Bagh Centre Mob. 9870288703

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