1. India Receives Indigenous Man Portable Counter Drone System
Tags: Science and Technology
On 10th June 2024, the Indian Army acquired the first-of-its-kind Man Portable Counter Drone System (MPCDS).
An Overview of the News
Developed by AXISCADES Technologies Limited, Bengaluru, under a Rs 100 crore agreement with the Indian Army.
Key Features of MPCDS:
Portability: Operates on both battery and mains power, enhancing its deployment flexibility.
Frequency Coverage: Covers a wide range of frequency spectrums including Command & Control and Navigation.
Detection and Jamming Capability: Capable of detecting and jamming various types of drones within a range of up to 5 kilometers (Kms).
Significance:
Strategic Investment: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Defence Forces plan to enhance their Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (C-UAV) capabilities with an estimated investment of Rs 3000 crore over the next 5 years.
Role of AXISCADES Technologies Limited: The company will be instrumental in this initiative due to its expertise in C-UAV systems, offering integrated sensors and neutralization options.
2. CCRAS Launches PRAGATI-2024 to Revolutionize Ayurveda Research and Innovation
Tags: Science and Technology
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has introduced the Pharma Research in AyurGyan And Techno Innovation (PRAGATI-2024) initiative to advance the future of Ayurveda.
An Overview of the News
The launch event occurred on May 28, 2024, at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi and was inaugurated by Dr. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush.
This initiative seeks to enhance research and innovation in Ayurveda by promoting collaboration between CCRAS and the Ayurveda drug industry.
CCRAS aims to engage every stakeholder by offering scholarships, thereby helping students appreciate the importance of research.
About CCRAS
Parent Body: Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India
Location: New Delhi, Delhi
Autonomy: CCRAS operates as an autonomous body under the Ministry of AYUSH.
3. Agnikul Cosmos launches Agnibaan SOrTeD with world's first 3D printed engine
Tags: Science and Technology
On May 30th, 2024, Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited successfully launched Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator) from Agnikul Launch Pad 1 (ALP-1), located within the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC)-SHAR in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India.
An Overview of the News
This marked the maiden flight of Agnibaan SOrTeD, propelled by the world's first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine.
Agnibaan SOrTeD stands as India's second privately developed rocket, equipped with the world's pioneering 3D printed engine technology.
The rocket signifies a significant leap in India's private space exploration endeavors, showcasing indigenous design and engineering capabilities.
Technical Specifications of Agnibaan SOrTeD:
Agnibaan SOrTeD operates as a single-stage launch vehicle, featuring Agnikul's innovative Agnilet engine, which powers its ascent.
This achievement underscores Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited's commitment to advancing space propulsion technology.
About Agnikul Cosmos Pvt Ltd:
Its manufacturer is Indian Aerospace.
It is located within the National Centre for Research and Development (NCRD) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras.
Founded:- 2017
Headquarters:- Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Founder:- Srinath Ravichandran
4. DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests RudraM-II Missile from Su-30 MK-I Platform
Tags: Defence Science and Technology
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile.
An Overview of the News
The test was conducted from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force in Odisha.
The Defence Ministry announced that the flight test met all the trial objectives.
RudraM-II Missile System
RudraM-II is an indigenously developed, solid-propelled, air-launched missile system.
The missile system incorporates a number of state-of-the-art indigenous technologies developed by various DRDO laboratories.
About DRDO
It is an agency under the Department of Defense Research and Development.
It works under the Ministry of Defense of the Government of India.
DRDO is responsible for military research and development.
Established:- 1958
Chairman:- Sameer V. Kamat
Headquarters:- DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi
Aircraft Design:- DRDO Nishant, DRDO Lakshya, Avatar
5. DD Kisan launches AI anchors Krish and Bhumi
Tags: Science and Technology National News
DD Kisan, the government TV channel, is set to introduce two AI anchors, AI Krish and AI Bhoomi.
An Overview of the News
The Agriculture Ministry announced the channel's revamp, scheduled for May 26th, promising a fresh presentation catering to India's farming community.
These AI anchors are equipped to communicate in fifty languages and deliver news tirelessly, 24/7, 365 days a year.
Viewers across all states of India will have access to these AI anchors, who will disseminate vital information on agricultural research, global trends, market updates from Krishi Mandis, weather forecasts, and details about government schemes.
The introduction of AI anchors signifies a new era for DD Kisan, enhancing its ability to educate and inform farmers across the nation.
DD Kisan:
It is an agriculture television channel, was established by the Government of India and falls under the ownership of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Launched on May 26, 2015, DD Kisan serves as the primary channel under the Doordarshan umbrella, focusing solely on agricultural content.
This state-owned channel aims to cater specifically to the needs and interests of India's agricultural community, providing valuable information and resources.
About Doordarshan (DD)
It is India's state-owned public television broadcaster.
Established by the Government of India on September 15, 1959.
Owned by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and operated under Prasar Bharati.
One of India's largest broadcasting organizations with extensive studio and transmitter infrastructure.
Provides television, radio, online, and mobile services across metropolitan and regional India as well as overseas.
Broadcasts on digital terrestrial transmitters, ensuring wide coverage.
6. ISRO Chairman Launches SFO Technologies' Carbon Reduction Initiative
Tags: Science and Technology
On May 11, 2024, Sreedhara Panicker Somanath, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, GOI, inaugurated the carbon reduction initiative by SFO Technologies, Kochi-based flagship company of the NeST Group.
An Overview of the News
The initiative aligns with the UN's goal of achieving a 50% carbon reduction by 2035 and zero emissions by 2040.
A replica of Chandrayaan was unveiled during the event, symbolizing the collaboration between SFO Technologies and ISRO.
The Indian government envisions the space industry to grow to a USD 9 to 10 billion industry within the next 5 to 10 years, compared to its current valuation of USD 2 billion.
Previous collaborations between ISRO and SFO Technologies include providing RF sub-systems for missions like Chandrayaan and Aditya, as well as manufacturing antenna systems and cryogenic control systems for launch vehicles.
SFO Technologies:
Offers Original Design Manufacturing (ODM) and solutions across diverse industries including Aerospace and Defence, Communications, Energy and Industrial, Healthcare, and Transportation.
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Manufacturing Business: Altaaf Jehangir.
Headquarters situated in Kochi, Kerala.
Established in the year 1990.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO):
Chairman: Sreedhara Panicker Somanath.
Headquarters located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Established in the year 1969.
7. ICAR-CMFRI Unveils Two New Needlefish Species in Indian Waters
Tags: Science and Technology
Researchers at ICAR-CMFRI discovered two new needlefish species in Indian waters.
An Overview of the News
Previous identification of flat needlefish (Ablennes hians) revealed to be a complex of at least three distinct species.
New Species:
Named as Ablennes joseberchmansis and Ablennes gracalii.
Genetic and molecular analysis confirmed their unique characteristics.
The discovery was made by researchers at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
Characteristics and Commercial Value
Location: Specimens were collected from Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
Commercial Value: These fishes are commercially valuable, known for their palatability and nutritional content.
Identification: They are identifiable by their green spines and elongated beaks with sharp teeth.
Market Price: They fetch around 400 rupees per kilogramme in the market.
Research Team and Publication
Contributors: The research team included Dr. Shijin Ameri, Badarul Sijad, and Dr. KK Sajikumar from CMFRI.
Publication: Their findings were published in the Journal of Regional Studies in Marine Science.
Institutional Background
ICAR-CMFRI: For over 75 years, ICAR-CMFRI has been a leading research institution in tropical marine fisheries globally.
Expansion: Over the years, CMFRI has expanded its research facilities and attracted skilled professionals, enhancing its scale and renown.
8. Kadet Defence Systems Introduces India's First Indigenous Loitering Aerial Munitions (LAM)
Tags: Science and Technology
Kadet Defence Systems (P) Limited (KDS) introduces India's first Loitering Aerial Munitions (LAM) for the Indian Armed Forces.
An Overview of the News
Developed under a unique Development cum Production Partner (DCPP) model with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Reflects KDS commitment to fostering indigenous innovation and self-reliance in defence production.
Features of India's 1st LAM:
The indigenous LAMs are entirely designed and manufactured in India.
Over 90% of components domestically sourced.
Incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including Canister Aerial Loitering Munition (CALM), Combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with stand-off capabilities, and Tactical Vertical Takeoff & Landing (VTOL) UAVs.
Adaptability to various terrains and altitudes, from deserts to plains, and even high-altitude regions surpassing 5000 meters.
Capabilities include serving as combat UAVs capable of precision strikes and Kamikaze drones for targeted engagements, reminiscent of cruise missiles.
Additional Information:
Secured a contract to deliver 50 LAM systems by the end of 2024, meeting the operational requirements of the Indian armed forces.
Aims to increase LAMs production and deliver an estimated 5000 systems in the next 2 to 3 years.
About KDS:
It is a privately owned company specializing in the production of aerospace products, with a primary focus on Unmanned Systems.
Avdesh Khaitan serves as the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company.
The headquarters of KDS is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The company was established in the year 2011.
9. Google Introduces Google Wallet for Android Users in India
Tags: Science and Technology
Google Wallet has been introduced by Google for Android users in India, providing a secure digital storage space.
An Overview of the News
Users can conveniently store cards, passes, tickets, keys, or IDs in one central location.
The platform is designed to integrate digital documents with QR codes for swift access.
Notably, Google Wallet in India will not facilitate payment functionalities.
Google Pay, the dedicated mobile payment application, will remain the primary solution for users' payment requirements in India.
Google Wallet:
The Google Wallet app debuted in 2011, but in 2015, it was supplanted by Android Pay.
Google unified Google Wallet and Android Pay in 2018, forming the new app called Google Pay.
The Google Wallet app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.
Notably, Google Tez, renamed Google Pay, premiered in India on September 18, 2017.
Distinctions of Google Wallet in India
Version Discrepancy: The Indian iteration of the app diverges slightly from its international counterparts.
Android Exclusivity: Google Wallet functions solely on Android smartphones within India, lacking compatibility with smartwatches or wearables, unlike its global availability.
10. India's First Commercial System on Chip (SoC) Launched
Tags: Science and Technology
Mindgrove Technologies Private Limited, in collaboration with IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation and IIT Madras Incubation Cell, introduced India's first commercial System on Chip (SoC) called Secure Internet of Things (IoT) on May 6, 2024.
An Overview of the News
It is anticipated to be 30% more cost-effective than existing chips in similar categories, targeting IoT devices.
Technical Specifications:
The Microcontroller Unit (MCU) chip has successfully undergone Multi-Project Wafer (MPW) tape-out at the 28 nanometer (nm) node.
Secure IoT boasts a high-performance micro-controller operating at 700 Megahertz (MHz).
Domestic Integration:
The chip is poised to enable Indian companies to incorporate a domestic SoC into their products, reducing costs while maintaining top-notch features.
Versatile Applications:
Its applications range from smartwatches to smart city devices like connected meters for electricity, water, and gas, as well as connected home gadgets like smart locks, fans, and speakers, along with Electric Vehicle (EV) battery management systems and control systems.
Secure IoT offers a wide array of features and is designed to be compatible with bare metal code or micro-controller Real-Time Operating System (RTOS), thus expanding its utility to domains such as traffic control systems, autonomous vehicles, medical equipment, etc.
Market Impact:
Notably, India consumes over a billion chips annually, and Secure IoT has the potential to replace between 10 to 50 million of them.
Supporting Ecosystem:
Mindgrove not only plans to sell the chip but also aims to provide design expertise to Indian firms, facilitating faster innovation and scaling up production in India.
