Manasvi: IIT Delhi’s Bold Step Toward Empowering High School Girls in STEM

In a world increasingly shaped by technological advancement, ensuring gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. Recognizing this, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi launched a pioneering initiative titled ‘Manasvi’, a STEM mentorship programme for high school girls. The programme, unveiled in New Delhi today, is spearheaded by the institute’s Academic Outreach and New Initiatives Office. Manasvi is not merely an educational engagement; it is a transformative platform aimed at inspiring and empowering young girls to pursue careers in STEM, fields traditionally dominated by men.

At the heart of Manasvi lies the ambition to address the deep-rooted gender disparity in STEM education and careers. Despite producing the largest number of science graduates globally, India continues to see disproportionately low female representation in STEM careers—a statistic that underscores the urgent need for such interventions. According to the UNESCO Science Report, only 14% of Indian researchers are women. This underrepresentation is not due to a lack of ability or interest, but rather a consequence of systemic barriers, cultural norms, and limited access to mentorship and opportunities. Manasvi emerges as a strategic response to these issues, offering girls not just academic exposure, but also a sense of belonging, confidence, and community.

The programme offers a rich blend of hands-on experiences, interactive learning, and direct mentorship, providing participants with a glimpse into the diverse possibilities within STEM. At IIT Delhi, participants are given access to world-class laboratories, real-time scientific experiments, and live demonstrations in fields like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Biotechnology, and Renewable Energy. This kind of experiential learning moves beyond classroom instruction, igniting curiosity and helping students visualize themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators. For many of these girls, stepping into an IIT lab is not just a novel experience—it is the first tangible interaction with the world of advanced science and technology.

One of the unique pillars of Manasvi is its robust mentorship model. High school students are paired with female mentors from academia and industry, including researchers, faculty members, and post-doctoral scholars at IIT Delhi. These mentors not only provide career guidance but also share personal journeys, struggles, and successes—humanizing the often intimidating face of STEM. This interaction is critical, especially in a society where young girls often lack visible role models in science and technology fields. A mentor’s encouragement can make all the difference between a girl dropping a subject out of fear, and a girl embracing it as her calling.

The mentorship does not stop at academics. Workshops within the programme focus on soft skills development—communication, leadership, teamwork, and creative problem-solving—equipping participants with the confidence to not just enter, but thrive in competitive STEM environments. Additionally, sessions on design thinking, public speaking, digital literacy, and data analysis help cultivate a 21st-century skillset essential for emerging careers in tech and innovation.

The success of Manasvi is already evident in the voices of its participants. Ritika Sharma, a Class 11 student who attended the programme, shared how her perception of science was transformed. “Before Manasvi, I thought science was just about memorizing formulas. Now, I see that it’s about solving real-world problems and creating things that matter,” she said, adding that she now dreams of becoming a roboticist. Another participant mentioned that it was the first time she felt confident enough to ask questions in a scientific discussion, a sentiment echoed by several others.

The programme also received heartfelt praise from its mentors. Dr. Anjali Menon, a researcher at IIT Delhi and one of the core mentors of Manasvi, emphasized the value of representation and visibility. “When girls see women who look like them, think like them, and have succeeded in science, it plants a seed of belief. It tells them, ‘You belong here too.’ That is what we are trying to do with Manasvi,” she remarked. Her words underline a critical insight: visibility in STEM is as powerful as access.

Professor Sunil Kumar, who leads the Academic Outreach at IIT Delhi, elaborated on the long-term vision behind the initiative. “Manasvi is not a one-time event. It is the beginning of a movement. Our goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem of mentorship and inspiration, where girls from all backgrounds feel encouraged to choose science without hesitation or fear,” he said. The plan includes scaling the programme to other IITs and regional educational hubs, as well as establishing online mentorship networks to reach girls in rural and underserved areas.

Manasvi’s introduction is particularly timely in the context of India’s broader educational and developmental goals. As the country pushes forward with its Digital India and Make in India campaigns, and as it aims to become a global innovation powerhouse, it is imperative that female talent is not sidelined. The underrepresentation of women in STEM isn’t just a gender issue—it’s an economic one. Studies have shown that diverse teams outperform homogenous ones in innovation and profitability. Inclusion in STEM is essential not only for empowering women but also for accelerating national growth.

In this regard, Manasvi aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). It also complements efforts by global movements such as Girls Who Code, She STEMs, and Women Techmakers India, creating a powerful synergy for gender-inclusive STEM education.

What makes Manasvi especially promising is its focus on long-term community building. Beyond the initial exposure, participants are invited to become part of an evolving alumni network—a digital community where they can continue to interact with mentors, participate in STEM challenges, attend webinars, and even mentor others in the future. This peer-support ecosystem is designed to be self-sustaining, enabling a ripple effect where today’s mentees become tomorrow’s leaders and mentors.

Looking ahead, the IIT Delhi team plans to expand Manasvi’s footprint by collaborating with Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, tribal schools, and NGOs working in education and gender empowerment. Discussions are also underway to bring private sector partners and philanthropic organizations on board to support resource mobilization, internship opportunities, and technology labs for aspiring girls.

The long-term vision is clear: to create a national framework for STEM mentorship, led by IITs, IISERs, CSIR institutions, and key stakeholders in education and industry. By empowering girls early, India can ensure that its future scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians come from all walks of life—not just the privileged few.

In conclusion, Manasvi is more than a mentorship initiative; it is a powerful catalyst for social change. It tells every girl in India that she can code, build, invent, research, and lead. It asserts that STEM is not just a man’s world—it’s hers too. As we celebrate this bold initiative by IIT Delhi, let us remember that the journey to equality in STEM begins with belief—and Manasvi is lighting that belief in young hearts across the nation.

DRDO Successfully Tests Stratospheric Airship Platform: A Leap in India's High-Altitude Defence Technology

In a groundbreaking achievement, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the maiden flight-trials of its Stratospheric Airship Platform on May 3, 2025. Developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra, this high-altitude platform marks a historic milestone in India’s march toward advanced aerospace systems and cutting-edge defence technology.

What Is a Stratospheric Airship Platform?

A stratospheric airship is a lighter-than-air, unmanned aerial vehicle designed to fly at stratospheric altitudes—typically between 17 to 20 kilometers—well above commercial air traffic and weather disturbances. These airships serve as High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) and are envisioned as persistent platforms for earth observation, telecommunication, disaster management, and most importantly, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) operations.

Unlike traditional satellites, HAPS like the DRDO’s airship offer cost-effective, re-deployable, and long-endurance surveillance capabilities without the complexity of orbital mechanics.

Details of the Maiden Flight

The recent test, conducted at DRDO’s trial site in Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh, involved the launch of the prototype airship carrying an instrumental payload to an altitude of around 17 kilometers. The total duration of the flight was 62 minutes, during which key systems were evaluated for performance, stability, and data acquisition.

Notably, the onboard envelope pressure control system and emergency deflation mechanisms were tested in-flight. These systems are critical for maintaining the structural integrity and controllability of the airship at stratospheric heights.

After a successful mission, the airship system was recovered for post-flight analysis and further technological refinement.

A Step Toward Persistent Surveillance and Communication

This successful trial represents a technological leap in India’s ISR capabilities. By reaching the stratosphere, the airship bypasses common operational limitations found in both aircraft and satellites:

• Greater persistence than aircraft or drones

• Lower latency and better flexibility than satellites

• Real-time data acquisition for ISR and earth observation applications

Such platforms are poised to revolutionize military reconnaissance, enabling real-time tracking of troop movements, border surveillance, and even monitoring of maritime zones and economic corridors.

Strategic Significance: Rajnath Singh’s Vision for India’s Defence

Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh applauded the DRDO’s achievement, stating that the system will uniquely enhance India’s strategic capabilities in earth observation and ISR. He highlighted the indigenous nature of the project, calling it a testament to Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) in the defence sector.

“India now joins the elite group of nations capable of developing and deploying indigenous high-altitude stratospheric airship systems,” he stated.

This not only boosts India's technological sovereignty but also demonstrates the nation's capacity to leapfrog traditional defence technologies and invest in futuristic platforms.

Vision of DRDO Chairman: Long-Endurance at Stratospheric Heights

Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, commended the entire development team for this landmark accomplishment. He emphasized that the successful prototype trial is a crucial milestone toward the realization of next-generation high-altitude platform systems with long-endurance capabilities.

These systems, when fully developed, will be capable of remaining airborne for weeks or even months, powered by solar energy or hybrid systems. They will enable a continuous surveillance grid, significantly reducing blind spots and enhancing India’s situational awareness across critical domains.

Applications Beyond Defence: Civilian and Commercial Potential

Although the immediate focus of the DRDO's stratospheric airship is defence, the implications of this technology are far-reaching. Some dual-use and civilian applications include:

• Disaster monitoring and early warning systems

• Environmental monitoring and emissions tracking

• Telecommunications in remote regions

• Navigation and remote sensing for agriculture and infrastructure

With India’s growing ambitions in space and aerial technology, this platform offers a low-cost alternative to satellite systems.

Trending Defence Technology: Why HAPS Are Gaining Global Attention

The global defence community has seen a growing interest in High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellites (HAPS) like the stratospheric airship, particularly for their advantages in tactical and strategic surveillance. Countries like the USA, China, Japan, and South Korea are actively exploring lighter-than-air systems to complement their satellite constellations.

India’s entry into this field, particularly with an indigenous prototype, sends a strong signal of technological maturity and strategic foresight.

Technical Features Evaluated During Flight Trial

The successful trial of the DRDO’s stratospheric airship involved the deployment and evaluation of several critical systems:

• Envelope Pressure Control System

• Emergency Deflation System

• Onboard Sensor Suite for real-time telemetry

• High-Fidelity Simulation Models for future missions

These evaluations are part of a larger roadmap that includes payload integration, autonomous navigation, and long-duration stability.

What Lies Ahead: DRDO’s Roadmap for HAPS

Following the success of this trial, DRDO is expected to:

• Enhance payload capacities

• Integrate renewable energy sources

• Develop AI-powered navigation systems

• Expand into disaster management frameworks

• Collaborate with ISRO, BEL, and private players

This airship initiative will likely become part of a broader aerial and space-based infrastructure.

International Comparison: India vs. Global HAPS Programs

Country	Platform Type	Endurance	Application Domain
India	Stratospheric Airship	1+ hours (prototype)	ISR, Earth Observation
USA	Zephyr, Raven Aerostar	Weeks	ISR, Communication
China	Yuanmeng Airship	Days to Weeks	Military Recon, Navigation
UK	Airbus Zephyr	30+ Days	Surveillance, Telecom

Key Takeaways

• DRDO successfully tested its first stratospheric airship platform

• Altitude: 17 km, Flight duration: 62 minutes

• Systems tested: Pressure control, emergency deflation, sensors

• Enhances India’s ISR, earth observation, and surveillance

• Signals Atmanirbhar Bharat in future defence technologies

• Dual-use potential: disaster relief, telecom, agriculture, environment

Conclusion

The successful flight-trial of the Stratospheric Airship Platform by DRDO represents a quantum leap in India’s aerospace and defence capabilities. As the world races to harness the power of High-Altitude Platform Systems, India’s indigenous solution positions the country among the elite. With further development, these airships may redefine the future of persistent surveillance, secure communication, and multi-domain awareness.

Giant Plasma Tides Beneath the Sun: Indian Scientists Unlock Solar Secrets That Could Shape Space Weather

In a groundbreaking discovery that may significantly alter our understanding of solar dynamics and space weather, an international team of solar physicists, led by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), has mapped giant tides of plasma flowing beneath the surface of the sun. These hidden plasma currents, located in a zone known as the near-surface shear layer (NSSL), have been shown to shift with the sun’s magnetic activity and could be a critical piece in solving the complex puzzle of space weather phenomena that affect life on Earth.

The research, published in the prestigious Astrophysical Journal Letters, was carried out in collaboration with experts from Stanford University and the U.S. National Solar Observatory (NSO). The findings not only uncover previously invisible solar plasma flows, but also link them with magnetic field changes and solar cycles, offering new insight into the sun’s mysterious behavior.

The Hidden Engine Beneath the Sun: What is the Near-Surface Shear Layer (NSSL)?

The near-surface shear layer (NSSL) is a region that extends roughly 35,000 kilometers below the sun’s photosphere. This layer is a hotbed of turbulent plasma activity — a zone where the rotational behavior of solar material undergoes drastic changes depending on depth and latitude.

According to the Department of Science and Technology (DST), India, the NSSL is “a critical region beneath the sun’s surface,” and it’s directly influenced by the dynamic interplay of magnetic fields, solar cycles, and Coriolis forces. Understanding the NSSL is key to decoding how solar interiors are tied to external magnetic behavior — and ultimately, solar eruptions like solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that cause geomagnetic storms on Earth.

Plasma Currents and the Sun’s Magnetic Pulse: How the Sun Breathes

The research team used helioseismology — a method similar to how seismologists study earthquakes — to trace the motions of solar material beneath the surface. Much like how seismologists use shockwaves to study Earth's inner layers, solar physicists use sound waves trapped inside the sun to measure internal movements.

Led by Professor S.P. Rajaguru and PhD student Anisha Sen at IIA, the team observed that surface plasma flows tend to converge toward latitudes where sunspots are most active. But intriguingly, these flows reverse direction midway through the NSSL, forming massive circulation cells. These cells channel plasma outward from the inner layers — a process strongly governed by Coriolis forces, the same mechanism that causes Earth’s hurricanes to spin.

“These flows are strongly influenced by the sun’s rotation and the Coriolis force,” explained the DST. “The localised flow patterns we observed matched the global trends — confirming both surface inflows and deeper outflows.”

Why This Matters: Impact on Space Weather and Earth

So why should we care about these plasma flows deep inside the sun?

The answer lies in space weather — the term for all electromagnetic and particle activity that radiates from the sun and interacts with Earth’s magnetic field. Events like solar flares, geomagnetic storms, and auroras are all driven by magnetic disturbances originating from deep within the sun.

When magnetic reconnections or sudden realignments of magnetic fields occur, they can eject massive amounts of charged particles toward Earth. These can disrupt GPS satellites, damage power grids, and pose serious risks to astronauts. Understanding the origin and behavior of such disturbances begins with a solid grasp of how internal solar flows influence external solar magnetic fields.

This new research suggests that much of what shapes these magnetic anomalies may originate in the NSSL. By studying the plasma tides in this zone, scientists can potentially improve space weather forecasting and reduce the risk posed by sudden solar storms.

Sunspots, Solar Cycles, and Magnetic Activity: The Missing Links

Sunspots — the dark patches on the sun’s surface — are visible indicators of underlying magnetic activity. They follow an 11-year solar cycle, during which the sun’s magnetic field reverses and solar activity waxes and wanes. The number and location of sunspots change over time and are used to predict the frequency of solar flares and CMEs.

The plasma tides discovered in the NSSL appear to be intricately linked to these sunspot zones. The study revealed that inflows toward sunspot latitudes occur near the surface, while outflows at deeper layers form circulation systems that are synchronized with the solar magnetic cycle.

This interplay suggests that something deeper than previously understood — possibly in the NSSL or even deeper — is controlling the rhythm of solar magnetism.

The Role of Indian Science in Global Solar Physics

This discovery is not just a milestone in astrophysics — it’s a major step forward for Indian science on the global stage. The IIA-led effort puts India at the forefront of heliophysics — the study of the sun and its influence on the solar system — and demonstrates the country’s capacity for cutting-edge space science collaboration.

IIA’s contributions to solar observations, data processing, and theoretical modeling have laid the groundwork for even more ambitious solar missions, including India’s Aditya-L1, the country's first solar observatory launched to study the sun from the Lagrange L1 point.

Coriolis Force: The Cosmic Twist Behind Solar Circulation

One of the key forces shaping the plasma flows in the NSSL is the Coriolis force. On Earth, this force is responsible for the rotation of hurricanes and ocean currents. In the sun, which rotates on its axis approximately every 27 days, the Coriolis force acts on moving plasma, creating rotational flow patterns that span thousands of kilometers.

This rotating motion twists the solar plasma and magnetic fields into loops and spirals, contributing to the complexity of solar magnetic structures. These twisted structures can store vast amounts of energy, which, when released, drive solar storms and geomagnetic disturbances.

Understanding how the Coriolis force interacts with plasma currents deep beneath the sun’s surface is a crucial part of the broader effort to model solar magnetohydrodynamics — the behavior of electrically charged fluids in magnetic fields.

What Lies Beneath: A Deeper Mystery Awaits

Perhaps the most intriguing part of this study is what it hints at but does not fully explain — that something even deeper within the sun may be orchestrating the massive flows and magnetic cycles we observe at the surface.

As Ms. Anisha Sen, the lead author, put it, “The findings hint that something mysterious is lurking in deeper layers of the sun that truly drives its global dynamics.”

Could it be that the sun has an as-yet-undiscovered internal structure influencing its entire magnetic cycle? Is there a hidden solar dynamo deeper than the NSSL?

These are the questions that will likely drive solar physics research in the coming decades.

Looking Ahead: Toward a New Era in Space Weather Prediction

This breakthrough opens the door to a more comprehensive understanding of how internal solar flows relate to external solar activity. The more we understand about the sun’s internal behavior, the better we can forecast solar storms and protect Earth-based infrastructure.

With climate change and our increasing reliance on satellite technology, building resilient systems against space weather disruptions is more important than ever. This study is a major step toward that goal.

Key Takeaways

• Plasma flows in the NSSL show inward movement at the surface and outward movement at deeper layers, forming massive circulation patterns.

• These flows shift with the sun’s magnetic pulse, linking internal solar dynamics to surface magnetic activity.

• The patterns are influenced by the Coriolis force, the same mechanism that spins hurricanes on Earth.

• The study enhances our understanding of sunspot formation, solar cycles, and space weather forecasting.

• Led by Indian scientists, this international collaboration puts India at the forefront of heliophysics research.

Conclusion

The sun, our life-giving star, remains a source of both wonder and danger. As we peel back the layers of its fiery depths, we uncover not only beautiful cosmic rhythms but also clues to phenomena that affect everything from satellite navigation to national power grids.

Thanks to the pioneering work of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and its global partners, we are now one step closer to decoding the hidden language of the sun — a language written in plasma, magnetism, and the elegant physics of rotation. 

How Technology Shapes Global Power: Lessons for India

In today’s world, power is no longer defined solely by military might or economic clout. It is increasingly shaped by a country’s ability to harness, diffuse, and govern technology. In a recent essay, renowned public intellectual Pratap Bhanu Mehta offers a powerful insight into how technology reshapes the global balance of power — and why India needs to rethink its strategy if it wishes to emerge as a genuine technology leader.

Rather than obsessing over sectoral dominance — whether in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, or quantum computing — Mehta argues that India should focus on fostering an ecosystem that enables the diffusion of General Purpose Technologies (GPTs). These are technologies that do not merely transform single industries but instead spark cascading changes across the entire economy and society.

The idea is both simple and radical: power in the 21st century is not about who owns a particular technology but about who enables its widespread and inclusive use.

Understanding the Power of General Purpose Technologies

To grasp Mehta’s argument, we must first understand what GPTs are. These are technologies that can be applied across a wide range of sectors and that fuel innovation far beyond their original domains. Classic examples from history include electricity and the internet. Today, modern GPTs include AI, blockchain, quantum computing, 5G/6G, semiconductors, renewable energy systems, and biotechnology.

What distinguishes GPTs is their ability to serve as infrastructure — foundations on which countless other innovations can be built. GPTs are not just tools; they are transformation platforms. Once embedded into the fabric of the economy, they generate exponential value by triggering new products, services, and even entire industries.

And herein lies the challenge for India: while much attention has been given to excelling in individual technologies — becoming a chip manufacturing hub or a global AI development center — the country has often neglected the more important task of enabling these technologies to penetrate every layer of its society and economy.

India’s Tech Landscape: Ambitious but Fragmented

India’s technology ambitions are expansive and, in many ways, admirable. Through initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and the Semicon India Programme, the government has shown a deep commitment to technological advancement. In recent years, India has also launched the National Quantum Mission and bolstered support for the startup ecosystem, making it the third-largest in the world.

Yet despite these efforts, India’s approach has often been piecemeal and overly focused on sectoral wins. This obsession with being number one in AI or semiconductors may yield symbolic victories but does little to ensure that technology becomes a lever of inclusive development or a source of systemic power.

The real question is not whether India can build one or two globally competitive sectors, but whether it can democratize the access to and benefits of General Purpose Technologies — in agriculture, education, health, logistics, and beyond.

Moving from Dominance to Diffusion

Mehta’s insight is a call for a strategic pivot: if India wants to shape the future balance of power, it must build mechanisms for the broad-based diffusion of GPTs, not just their elite capture.

Take, for example, India’s pioneering work in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Aadhaar (digital identity), UPI (unified payments interface), and CoWIN (vaccination platform) have created a digital backbone that now enables millions to access services, make payments, and verify identity with unprecedented ease. These are examples of technology not as privilege, but as public good.

Extending this model to other GPTs is both possible and necessary. Building a National Health Stack, operationalizing the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), and creating AI-driven EdTech platforms could ensure that every citizen, not just tech companies, benefits from the next generation of innovations.

This is how India can make technology sovereign — not by closing its doors to foreign platforms or building walls around its internet, but by designing systems that enable local, diverse, and creative uses of cutting-edge technologies.

R&D, Skilling, and Ecosystem Thinking

For this transformation to happen, India needs to significantly boost its capacity for foundational research and development. Currently, India spends just 0.65% of its GDP on R&D, lagging far behind countries like the United States, South Korea, or Israel. Without sustained investment in science and research, India cannot expect to lead or even meaningfully participate in the development of GPTs.

But beyond raw investment, the real challenge is institutional. Indian universities remain underfunded and poorly integrated with the tech ecosystem. Industry-academia linkages are weak. Government departments often work in silos. A more agile, cross-sectoral approach is required — one that promotes research parks, innovation clusters, and mission-driven public-private partnerships.

Equally vital is the need to address the skills gap. GPTs like AI and quantum computing require new ways of thinking and doing. India's education and skilling systems must be reoriented toward lifelong learning, interdisciplinary knowledge, and future-readiness. This is especially important if we want these technologies to reach beyond elite urban centers and benefit rural and semi-urban populations as well.

Democratizing Innovation

One of India's great strengths is its pluralistic, decentralized innovation culture. Unlike authoritarian states that centralize control over technology, India has the potential to unleash bottom-up innovation that is socially embedded and locally relevant.

But to make this happen, the government must move away from top-down approaches and invest in decentralized tech ecosystems. This means supporting local AI applications in regional languages, IoT-based farming tools, and telemedicine platforms for rural health workers. It means embracing frugal innovation alongside frontier science.

In short, innovation must be contextualized — not just copied from Silicon Valley or Shenzhen.

Strategic Autonomy and the Tech Power Game

The geopolitics of technology is heating up, and India finds itself navigating a volatile terrain. The US-China tech war, export controls on semiconductors, and debates on digital sovereignty have all highlighted the risks of overdependence on foreign tech ecosystems.

While India should not fall into the trap of techno-nationalism, it must build sufficient strategic autonomy in key areas like trusted hardware, cybersecurity, and AI governance. Developing dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military purposes will be critical to safeguarding national interests.

Moreover, India needs to participate more actively in setting global tech standards. This is where GPTs become a geopolitical instrument — the nations that define the rules around data, AI ethics, and cross-border flows will be the ones shaping the future global order.

Toward a New Policy Mindset

If India is serious about becoming a global tech leader by 2030, it needs a new policy mindset — one that is mission-oriented, inclusive, and forward-looking. Technology policy should not be treated as a subset of industrial policy or national security; it must be seen as nation-building infrastructure.

This means crafting a coherent national strategy that cuts across ministries and sectors. It means treating public data as a strategic asset, not a liability. It means creating smart regulatory sandboxes for AI and biotech, encouraging experimentation while protecting public interest.

Above all, it means recognizing that the true measure of a technology superpower is not how many chips it produces or how many unicorns it has — but how effectively it turns breakthrough technologies into everyday tools for real people.

Final Thoughts

Pratap Bhanu Mehta’s reflections remind us that the politics of technology is not just about innovation, but about inclusion, institutions, and imagination. Power in the 21st century will not come from control, but from the capacity to empower others through the diffusion of General Purpose Technologies.

India has the talent, the ambition, and the democratic DNA to lead in this space. But to do so, it must stop chasing technological trophies and start building technological foundations. Only then can we ensure that the future of technology is not just Indian-made, but Indian-shaped.

MCQs 

1. What are General Purpose Technologies (GPTs)?
   Answer: Technologies with cross-sectoral impact.

2. Which of the following is an example of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure?
   Answer: Aadhaar.

3. According to Pratap Bhanu Mehta, technology leadership requires:
   Answer: Broad-based diffusion of technologies.

Trump's Policy Uncertainty Sends Biotech Sector into a Slump

In recent years, the biotech industry has emerged as a cornerstone of innovation, especially in areas like gene therapy, personalized medicine, and vaccine development. However, this dynamic and promising sector is highly sensitive to government regulations, policy frameworks, and economic signals. Under the Trump administration, the biotech sector witnessed a turbulent journey, driven by policy uncertainty, sudden regulatory shifts, and volatile rhetoric on healthcare pricing reforms.

This blog delves into how Trump’s policy ambiguity and decision-making style impacted the biotech industry, contributing to a market slump and investor hesitancy. It also analyzes the broader implications for pharmaceutical innovation, R&D funding, and global biotech partnerships.

Trump Administration and Policy Volatility

One of the defining features of Donald Trump’s presidency was his unconventional approach to governance. For sectors like biotech, which rely on predictable and science-driven regulatory environments, this approach often created confusion and instability.

Key Elements of Policy Uncertainty:

1. Drug Pricing Rhetoric: Repeated promises to “lower drug prices” led to widespread concern among pharmaceutical investors. Trump’s tweets alone were known to cause stock drops in major biotech firms.

2. Healthcare Reform Uncertainty: The push to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) created fears about the insurance coverage landscape, which could affect the demand for high-end biotech treatments.

3. Regulatory Inconsistencies: Mixed signals from the FDA under Trump's administration – sometimes fast-tracking approvals, sometimes introducing delays – added further unpredictability.

Impact on the Biotech Sector

The uncertainty induced by the Trump administration impacted the biotech sector across several dimensions:

1. Stock Market Performance

The NASDAQ Biotechnology Index (NBI) experienced fluctuations directly linked to Trump’s policy pronouncements. Investors pulled back from biotech stocks fearing price controls and regulatory overhauls.

2. Funding Slowdown

Venture capital funding in biotech startups showed signs of contraction as investors sought safer industries. This slowdown negatively affected early-stage innovation and clinical trials.

3. Global Partnerships and Trade

Trump's focus on “America First” and trade wars, particularly with China, disrupted cross-border biotech collaborations and access to foreign markets and supply chains.

4. R&D Reallocation

Biotech companies began to reallocate research budgets towards safer or more profitable portfolios, avoiding high-risk high-cost innovations that could fall prey to regulatory scrutiny.

Investor Sentiment and Risk Aversion

Under Trump, investor sentiment towards biotech turned cautious. The unpredictable political environment introduced a risk premium into biotech equities, leading analysts to downgrade stocks across the board.

Major Factors Behind Investor Pullback:

• Concerns over pricing regulations affecting profit margins.

• Delayed clinical trial approvals or sudden FDA rule changes.

• Lack of clarity on patent protections in foreign trade agreements.

Policy Instability vs Scientific Progress

Ironically, this policy turmoil came at a time when biotech science was progressing rapidly. Technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, mRNA vaccines, and artificial intelligence in drug discovery were redefining the future of medicine.

But without clear government support, scientific breakthroughs failed to translate into commercial successes. Policy paralysis discouraged long-term commitments to drug pipelines, thereby slowing the pace of medical innovation.

The Post-Trump Recovery

Following the 2020 U.S. elections, there was a noticeable rebound in biotech investor confidence under the Biden administration, which pledged transparency, science-first policymaking, and healthcare expansion.

Notable Recovery Trends:

• Increased FDA collaboration with biotech firms.

• Renewed focus on pandemic preparedness boosting vaccine research.

• Revival of global biotech conferences and partnerships.

Conclusion

The biotech industry’s slump under Trump serves as a cautionary tale about the role of government stability and regulatory predictability in driving innovation. While bold reforms are sometimes necessary, inconsistent and politically motivated policies can stifle even the most advanced technological sectors.

Moving forward, biotech stakeholders need to advocate for:

• Science-based regulatory reforms.

• Protection of intellectual property rights.

• Supportive public-private funding models.

• Transparency in drug pricing policy.

With these safeguards, the biotech sector can recover from past shocks and continue its mission of transforming lives through science.

A Deep Dive into ISRO’s Gaganyaan Mission

As the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) advances steadily towards launching its maiden human spaceflight mission — Gaganyaan — the emphasis on spaceflight safety has never been more crucial. India is on the brink of joining an elite group of nations capable of sending humans to space, and ISRO is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that every stage of the mission, from liftoff to landing, adheres to global safety standards.

Gaganyaan is poised to become a landmark achievement in India’s space exploration journey. It aims to send three astronauts into low Earth orbit (LEO) for up to seven days. While this initial mission is not intended to dock with any space station, the selected crew is being familiarized with docking procedures, a forward-thinking move that prepares them for potential future missions involving orbital rendezvous and space station docking.

Ensuring astronaut safety is a complex, multilayered process involving extensive planning, rigorous testing, and highly specialized training. One of the mission’s key safety mechanisms is the Crew Escape System (CES) — an emergency module designed to rapidly separate the crew module from the launch vehicle in case of any anomaly during ascent. This system uses solid-fuel rocket motors to propel the module to safety, thus providing a critical escape route in a matter of seconds. The launch abort system, as it's also known, has already undergone successful testing and is seen as a cornerstone of ISRO’s human-rating efforts.

Beyond launch, life in space presents its own set of challenges. The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) aboard the Gaganyaan spacecraft plays a vital role in maintaining a habitable environment for the astronauts. It controls cabin pressure, manages oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, regulates temperature and humidity, and even handles waste. All of these systems must work flawlessly to keep the crew alive and healthy in the harsh environment of space. This integration of life support systems is key to ensuring human survivability beyond Earth.

ISRO has taken an extremely cautious approach by integrating redundant systems into both the spacecraft and the modified GSLV Mk III rocket, now termed HLVM3. These backups span everything from power supplies to navigation and communication systems, and are designed to take over seamlessly in case the primary systems fail. Redundancy in aerospace systems is a widely adopted principle among space agencies like NASA and ESA, and ISRO’s implementation of it showcases its growing sophistication in mission planning and execution.

To ensure the astronauts are fully prepared, ISRO has partnered with Russia’s Glavkosmos for astronaut training. Four Indian Air Force pilots have been undergoing a rigorous regimen that includes high-G simulations, underwater weightlessness training, and emergency procedures. Interestingly, despite no docking being planned for Gaganyaan, the astronauts are being trained in docking protocols — a forward-looking strategy that reflects ISRO’s aspirations for space station collaboration and long-duration missions in the future.

Before the final crewed mission, ISRO has planned a detailed series of tests. This includes Test Vehicle Abort Missions (TV-D1, TV-D2, etc.), which are designed to validate the functionality of the Crew Escape System under various failure scenarios. In addition, two uncrewed Gaganyaan missions will simulate the full mission profile, using instrumented humanoid robots to gather data on the spacecraft’s behavior in orbit and during re-entry. These uncrewed trials act as a critical buffer against unknowns and ensure that no aspect of the mission is left unverified.

The Gaganyaan spacecraft itself is a marvel of modern engineering. It consists of a Crew Module, which is pressurized and houses the astronauts, and a Service Module that contains support systems like propulsion and thermal regulation. The modules have undergone multiple tests, including thermal vacuum trials, vibration analysis, and drop tests to simulate landing conditions. Each component has been engineered to withstand the extreme stresses of launch and re-entry.

Another major innovation lies in the human-rating of the launch vehicle. The HLVM3 rocket, previously used for satellite launches, has undergone extensive modifications to make it suitable for carrying humans. These changes include enhanced structural integrity, improved vibration damping, and the integration of high-reliability avionics systems. These adaptations are in line with international human-rating standards, and their meticulous implementation reflects ISRO’s commitment to astronaut safety.

Safety doesn’t stop at the edge of Earth’s atmosphere. In space, threats like micro-meteorites, orbital debris, and radiation exposure can pose serious risks to both spacecraft and crew. Gaganyaan’s systems are designed to offer shielding and early warning protocols against such hazards. ISRO’s engineers have drawn from NASA’s MMOD protection strategies and are working with international agencies to design robust defenses.

Importantly, ISRO is not working in isolation. The organization has entered into multiple international collaborations with agencies like NASA, ESA, and Roscosmos to ensure that its systems and protocols meet global spaceflight safety standards. These partnerships involve sharing critical knowledge, aligning safety protocols, and co-developing technologies that improve mission success rates. The cross-pollination of expertise is not only vital for Gaganyaan’s success but also sets the stage for future joint missions.

Although Gaganyaan will not involve any docking maneuvers, the training in docking procedures is a strategic move, considering India's plans to build its own Indian space station by 2028. By preparing astronauts today for operations they will conduct years from now, ISRO is establishing a long-term vision for sustainable human presence in space.

In every aspect — from engineering to training to collaboration — ISRO’s focus on spaceflight safety is clear and commendable. Gaganyaan is not just a mission; it’s a stepping stone toward India's long-term goals in space, such as planetary exploration, space station development, and human missions to the Moon and beyond.

Test Your Knowledge: Gaganyaan Safety Quiz

1. What is the primary function of the Crew Escape System in Gaganyaan?

A) To increase thrust

B) To navigate in orbit

C) To evacuate the crew in case of launch failure

D) To assist in docking

✅ Correct Answer: C

2. Which organization is collaborating with ISRO for astronaut training?

A) NASA

B) JAXA

C) Glavkosmos

D) SpaceX

✅ Correct Answer: C

3. What is the target orbit for Gaganyaan's mission?

A) Medium Earth Orbit

B) Geostationary Orbit

C) Low Earth Orbit

D) High Earth Orbit

✅ Correct Answer: C

4. Which system ensures oxygen and temperature levels inside the crew module?

A) Crew Escape System

B) Environmental Control and Life Support System

C) Ground Control Monitoring

D) Propulsion Support Unit

✅ Correct Answer: B

Final Thoughts

The Gaganyaan mission is a bold stride into the future for India’s space ambitions. With meticulous attention to safety, cutting-edge technology, and an eye on international collaboration, ISRO is not just launching a rocket — it’s launching India into a new era of human spaceflight. Through this mission, India aims to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers who will shape the future of space travel.