Perovskite Quantum Dots (PQDs)

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Why in News?

Scientists from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bengaluru, have developed an improved method for producing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) using perovskite quantum dots (PQDs). These advancements are set to enhance LED display technology.

Perovskite Quantum Dots (PQDs)

Perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) are a new class of quantum dots based on perovskite materials. These materials share a crystal structure similar to the perovskite mineral, calcium titanium oxide (CaTiO3). Despite being relatively new, PQDs have demonstrated properties that match or even surpass those of metal chalcogenide quantum dots. PQDs are known for their defect tolerance, superior photoluminescence quantum yields, and high color purity, making them ideal for electronic and optoelectronic applications such as LED displays and quantum dot solar cells.

Challenges in Perovskite Quantum Dot Research

One significant challenge in PQD research is their susceptibility to moisture and heat, which can affect their performance and lifespan in LEDs. Additionally, when different-colored PQDs are layered to produce white light, anion migration can occur, causing them to lose their individual colors.

Solution

To address these challenges, scientists have developed a method to mitigate anion migration by embedding an ultrathin alumina layer within the perovskite quantum dot layers using atomic layer deposition (ALD). This innovation helps maintain the distinct colors of PQDs, thereby improving the stability and performance of PQD-based LEDs.

Comparison of LEDs, Incandescent Light Bulbs, and Compact Fluorescents (CFLs)

Agenda of the 16th Finance Commission

Why in News?

The 16th Finance Commission (FC) has commenced its work under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution, primarily focusing on the devolution of the consolidated fund. Since the 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments, local bodies have gained significant recognition within the federal system. These amendments introduced sub-clauses 280 (3) (b) and (c), which mandate the FC to recommend measures to augment State consolidated funds for supporting panchayats and municipalities.

Importance of Urban Areas

The National Commission on Urbanisation in the mid-80s described cities as “engines of growth.” Despite this, the current economic scale is insufficient to meet rising needs. Urban areas contribute about 66% of India’s GDP and about 90% of total government revenue. However, financial devolution to cities remains inadequate. The World Bank estimates that $840 billion is needed for basic urban infrastructure in the next decade. Intergovernmental transfers (IGTs) to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India are about 0.5% of GDP, much lower than the 2-5% typical of other developing nations. The fiscal health of municipalities is poor, affecting both productivity and quality of life. Rapid urbanisation without appropriate fiscal action has adverse effects on development.

Taxation System

The introduction of the Goods and Service Tax (GST) has reduced ULBs’ tax revenue (excluding property tax) from about 23% in 2012-13 to around 9% in 2017-18. IGTs from States to ULBs are very low, with State Finance Commissions recommending only about 7% of States’ own revenue in 2018-19. Increasing the quantum of IGTs as a percentage of GDP is necessary. Despite the 74th constitutional amendment’s aim to financially strengthen ULBs, progress over three decades has fallen short. The 13th Finance Commission observed that “parallel agencies and bodies are emasculating local governments both financially and operationally.”

Importance of the Census

In the absence of the 2021 Census, reliance on 2011 data is inadequate for evidence-based fiscal devolution. India has approximately 4,000 statutory towns and an equal number of Census towns, with an estimated 23,000 villages, all of which are effectively urban. These figures must be captured by the 16th FC, including the significant migration to Tier-2 and 3 cities. Thus, the 15th FC’s nine guiding principles require a revisit, focusing on enhancing property tax collection, maintenance of accounts, resource allocation for mitigating pollution, primary healthcare, solid waste management, drinking water, and untreated sewage.

Recommendations

The 16th FC must consider India’s urbanisation dynamics and ensure IGTs to urban areas are at least doubled. A McKinsey Global Institute report warns that without increased investment in urban infrastructure, current rates will lead to severe water supply issues and untreated sewage. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize urban development to ensure sustainable growth and improved living conditions in urban areas.

Air India to Establish Flight Training School in Amravati

Why in News?

Air India will set up a flying training school in Amravati, Maharashtra, with an investment of ₹200 crore. The school aims to graduate 180 pilots annually and will be operational by June 2025.

Facilities and Operations

Located at Belora airport, the school will feature 31 single-engine Piper Archer and three twin-engine Diamond DA42 aircraft. It will span over 10 acres with digitally enabled classrooms, a digitized operations center, and a maintenance facility.

Objectives and Impact

The initiative by the Maharashtra Airport Development Company Ltd. (MADCL) will create over 3,000 jobs in the aviation sector and allied fields, significantly contributing to the state’s GDP. Air India aims to enhance its global standing by training pilots with world-class curricula.

Strategic Importance

This facility will boost India's flying training infrastructure, reducing dependence on foreign training and improving domestic training standards.