UPSC Science and Technology Module covers the dynamic areas critical for both the Prelims and Mains (GS Paper III). Unlike traditional science, the focus is heavily on current developments, applications, and policy implications in key technological domains.

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Phase I: Space Technology 🛰️

Focus: ISRO's programs, launch vehicles, and global space governance.

1. Indian Space Programme

• Launch Vehicles: Detailed understanding of PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle), LVM3, and SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle).

• Major Missions: Chandrayaan series (especially Chandrayaan-3 and future plans), Mangalyaan (MOM), Aditya-L1 (Solar Mission), Gaganyaan (Human Spaceflight Program).

• Satellite Systems: INSAT (Communication) and IRS (Remote Sensing) series.

• Navigation Systems: NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) vs. global systems like GPS.

2. Emerging Space Concepts

• New Space Economy: Role of private sector (IN-SPACe, NewSpace India Ltd. - NSIL, start-ups).

• Space Security & Policy: ASAT (Anti-Satellite) Missile tests, Space Debris (Kessler Syndrome), Project NETRA, Outer Space Treaty (1967), and the need for a National Space Law in India.

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Phase II: Information & Communication Technology (ICT) 💻

Focus: Frontier technologies driving the Digital India initiative and security concerns.

1. Digital & Computing Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML): Applications in healthcare, governance, defense, and ethical concerns (Algorithmic Bias).

• Internet of Things (IoT) & Smart Devices: Applications in smart cities, industry, and home automation.

• Blockchain Technology: Principles (Decentralized Ledger), applications (Cryptocurrency, Supply Chain, Land Records), and challenges.

• Quantum Technology: Quantum Computing (Qubit, Quantum Supremacy), Quantum Communication, and the National Quantum Mission.

• Other Emerging Tech: Web 3.0, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Big Data, and Cloud Computing.

2. Cybersecurity & Digital Governance

• Cybersecurity: Types of attacks (Phishing, Ransomware), Cyber Warfare, and India's cybersecurity framework (CERT-In).

• Digital Initiatives: Digital India program, India Stack (Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker), and e-governance models.

• Data Protection: Data Localisation and the status of Personal Data Protection Bill.

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Phase III: Biotechnology & Health 🧬

Focus: Genetic advancements, their applications in sectors, and associated ethical issues.

1. Biotechnology Fundamentals

• Genetic Engineering: Recombinant DNA Technology, Gene Therapy, and RNA Interference (RNAi).

• Genome Editing: CRISPR-Cas9 (Revolution in gene editing), its uses, and ethical boundaries.

• Stem Cells: Types (Embryonic vs. Adult), applications (Regenerative Medicine), and issues.

• Diagnostics: PCR, ELISA, and rapid diagnostic techniques.

2. Applications & Bio-Economy

• Agricultural Biotech: GM Crops (BT Cotton, GM Mustard), regulation of GM crops in India.

• Medical Biotech (Red Biotech): Vaccine development, Biopharmaceuticals, and CAR T-cell therapy.

• Environmental Biotech (Green/Blue Biotech): Bioremediation, Biofuels (National Biofuel Policy), and Green Hydrogen mission.

• Bio-Economy: India's potential and government initiatives (National Biopharma Mission, Biotech KISAN).

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Phase IV: Defence, Nuclear & Energy Technologies 🛡️

Focus: Indigenization, strategic self-reliance, and emerging energy solutions.

1. Defence Technology

• Missile Systems: Classification (Surface-to-Surface - Agni/Prithvi, Cruise - BrahMos), IGMDP (Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme), and missile defence systems (S-400, AD-1).

• Strategic Systems: Nuclear Triad (Land, Air, Sea capability - INS Arihant), Aircraft Carriers (INS Vikrant).

• Indigenization: Role of DRDO, Defence Industrial Corridors, and the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' push in defence.

• Emerging Warfare: Cyber Warfare, Hypersonic Missiles, and the use of UAVs/Drones.

2. Nuclear Energy

• India's 3-Stage Nuclear Power Programme: Objectives and status.

• Nuclear Reactors: Types (PHWR, Fast Breeder Reactors); differences between Fission and Fusion.

• Applications: Power generation and non-energy uses.

3. Energy & Nanotechnology

• Renewable Energy Tech: Solar PV cells, Lithium-ion batteries vs. Solid-State Batteries, and Green Hydrogen.

• Nanotechnology: Concepts (Nanoparticles, Graphene, Carbon Nanotubes), applications in medicine and environment, and safety regulations.

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Phase V: General Science & IP Rights

Focus: Basic concepts and the legal-economic framework.

• General Science Basics: Fundamental concepts from Physics (e.g., Electromagnetic Spectrum, Laser), Chemistry, and Biology (Cell, Genetics) for conceptual clarity (often covered in NCERTs).

• Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Patents, Copyrights, Trademarks, and issues related to TRIPS and Biopiracy.

• Awards & Achievements: Notable contributions of Indian scientists (C.V. Raman, Homi Bhabha) and recent major international scientific awards (e.g., Nobel Prizes) relevant to India.