In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
Malaria, a life-threatening disease predominantly affecting tropical regions, continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives annually. As traditional methods of mosquito control and drug treatments face rising resistance, scientists are pioneering a groundbreaking approach: genetically modifying malaria-causing parasites themselves. Unlike previous strategies that targeted mosquito vectors, this innovative method focuses directly on Plasmodium parasites, fundamentally altering their life cycle to enhance immune response and reduce transmission. In this article, we will delve into how genetically modified malaria parasites work, their advantages over traditional methods, the challenges they pose, and the potential implications for global health. The Shift from Mosquitoes to Parasites Traditionally, malaria control strategies have primarily targeted the mosquito vectors responsible for transmitting the disease. Some of the most prominent methods have included: 1. Radiation-Sterilized ...