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By admin: Nov. 16, 2024

BSNL Launches India’s First direct-to-device satellite connectivity service

Tags: Science and Technology

BSNL Launches India’s First direct-to-device satellite connectivity service

Why in news?

• Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the state-run telecom provider in India, has introduced its direct-to-device satellite connectivity service, marking the country's first satellite-to-device communication offering.

What is direct-to-device satellite connectivity ?

• Satellite-to-device service is a service that allows users to make calls, send messages, and process payments in areas where cellular and Wi-Fi networks are unavailable. 
• It uses non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity throughgeostationary L-band satellites that are 36,000 km above Earth.
• Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) launched India's first satellite-to-device service in collaboration with Viasat, a US-based communications company.
• The service wasfirst announced at the Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024.

Features of BSNL's satellite-to-device service:

• High-speed internet:Users can browse the web, stream videos, and conduct online activities.
• Wide coverage: The service reaches remote areas of the country.
• Reliable connectivity: The service provides uninterrupted internet connectivity, regardless of weather conditions.
• Affordable plans: BSNL has introduced affordable plans to make the service accessible to a wider range of users. 

Significance:

• BSNL's new satellite service is designed to assist users in remote areas with limited network access.
• Whether it be in the Spiti Valley or rural regions, the service enables users to stay connected with family and friends even when cellular or Wi-Fi networks are unavailable. 
• It supports emergency calls, SoS messaging, and UPI payments, ensuring connectivity in critical situations.

‘Y-Break at Workplace’ Program receives Prestigious Recognition

Tags: National News

 ‘Y-Break at Workplace’ Program receives Prestigious Recognition

Why in news?

The Ministry of Ayush’s innovative initiative, Yoga Break at Workplace (Y-Break), has been awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for its outstanding performance on the iGOT Karmayogi Bharat Platform,during the Valedictory Ceremony of the National Learning Week –Karmayogi Saptah, held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

 What is Yoga Break at Workplace (Y-Break)?

• The Y-Break protocol is a carefully curated five-minute yoga regimen designed to help employees destress, refresh, and refocus during their workday. 
• The protocol includes simple yet effective yogic practices such as Tadasana, Urdhva Hastottanasana, Prasarita Padottanasana, and Nadi Shodhana Pranayama.
• It is tailored to boost immunity, reduce stress, and improve overall mental and physical health, even within the constraints of a busy schedule.

Significance:

• Recognizing the traditionally limited focus on employee health at workplaces, the Ministry of Ayush introduced this protocol to bridge the gap. 
• The program caters to diverse sectors, from factory workers to academic professionals, proving its universal applicability.helping them stay energized and productive throughout the day."
• Practicing the Y-Break protocol twice daily for just five minutescan foster a balanced integration of mind and body, ultimately enhancing productivity and workplace well-being.
• This recognition reflects the Ministry of Ayush’s commitment to promoting holistic health and wellness across the workforce. 

NHRC takes suo-motu cognizance of the reported fire in the Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh .

Tags: State News

Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh 

Why in news?

• NHRC takes suo-motu cognizance of the reported fire in the Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh resulting in the death of 10 babies.

What is matter?

• At least 10 newborn babies have died after a fire broke out in the Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh on 15.11.2024. 
• Apart from these deaths, a total 16 babies sustained injuries while 37 were rescued. 
• Reportedly, the police authorities have confirmed that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit and the babies, who died, were in incubators at the time of the incident.

 What is the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) ?

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India is a statutory body that promotes and protects human rights in India: 
• The NHRC was established on October 12, 1993, under the Protection of Human Rights Ordinance of 1993. The Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA) of 1993 gave the NHRC a statutory basis. 
• The NHRC's purpose is to promote human rights awareness and protect human rights, which include the rights to life, liberty, equality, and dignity.
•  The NHRC also helps victims secure their human rights, including those granted by the constitution and international treaties. 

Role  of NHRC :

• The NHRC coordinates with other National Human Rights Institutes (NHRIs) around the world to promote human rights awareness. 
• The NHRC also hosts delegations from UN bodies, other NHRIs, civil society, lawyers, and political and social activists.
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The rare bird, Scarlet Tanager, was recently spotted in the UK for the first time in 40 years.

Tags: Environment

Scarlet Tanager

Why in news?

• The rare bird, Scarlet Tanager, was recently spotted in the UK for the first time in 40 years.

About Scarlet Tanager:

• It is a  beautiful birdnative to North America.
• It’s scientific name is Piranga olivacea.
• Thy Breeds in deciduous and mixed deciduous-evergreen forests; winters in forests and forest edges.
• They migrate to tropical forests in Central and South America during winter.

Features:

• They are medium-sized songbirds with fairly stocky proportions. They average seven inches in length.
• In spring and summer, adult males are an unmistakable, brilliant red with black wings and tails.
• Females fall immatures are olive-yellow with darker olive wings and tails.
• After breeding, adult males molt to female-like plumage, but with black wings and tail.
• IUCN Red List: Least Concern.
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