Current Affairs search results for tag: science-and-technology

1. Veil of fiery gas revealed around the disc of Milky-Way

Tags: Science and Technology

Veil of fiery gas revealed around the disc of Milky-Way

Why in news?

• Scientists may have finally hit upon the possible mysterious sources that have pumpedheat and kept alive the fiery hot gas which has been recently detected but has remained unexplained, so far.

Important points:

• Scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous institute funded by theDepartment of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, along with their collaborators at IIT-Palakkad and Ohio State University, have detailed the mysterious source through their proposed model in two related studies.
• There is more gas than stars in our galaxy. The prevailing, massive gas reserve is the main source for star formation in our galaxy. 
• The availability of such abundant gas helped sustain this process till date. However, because of its tenuous nature, astronomers have found it extremely difficult to see, let alone measure the volume of this gaseous matter.
• Since there is a continuous on-going star formation at various regions across the disk of the Milky Way, the massive stars in these regions explode as supernovae, and heat the gas around the disk to high temperatures.

 What is Milky Way ?

• The Milky Way is our home galaxy, a spiral-shaped collection of stars, dust, and gas that contains billions of stars, including our Sun.
• From Earth, the Milky Way appears as a faint band of light that stretches across the sky. The name"Milky Way" comesfrom the Classical Latin via lactea, which means "milky way". 
• The Milky Way is about 100,000 light-years across and 10,000 light-years thick. 
• The Milky Way has a central bar of stars with arms that wrap off the ends. The Sun is located in the Orion Arm, a small, partial arm. 

2. Elon Musk's SpaceX launched GSAT-20

Tags: Science and Technology

Elon Musk's SpaceX launched GSAT-20 

Why in news?

• Elon Musk's SpaceX launchedGSAT-20 ,ISRO's latest communications satellite from Cape Canaveral in Florida on November 19,2024.

 About  GSAT-20 :

• GSAT-N2 or GSAT-20 is a4,700 kg satellitethat exceeds the weight capacity of India's indigenous rockets.
• The satellite has amission-life of 14 years, providing essential internet and communication services across India and even in remote regions.
• It is operating in the Ka-band with a capacity of 48Gbps.
• It will enhance broadband as well as in-flight connectivity throughout the Indian region.
• According to ISRO, the satellite is equipped with 32 user beams of which 8 narrow spot beams cover the Northeast region and 24 wide spot beams for the rest of India.
• The launch had utilisedSpace X's Falcon 9 rocket. This is a unique collaboration as this indicates the first major commercial partnership between SpaceX and ISRO. 
• The estimated cost for this collaboration is between $60-70 million.

Why SpaceX?

• The primary reason for ISRO choosing SpaceX to deliver the satellite is the weight of it.
•  The GSAT-20 being 4,700 kgs could not be delivered through India's indigenous rockets. ISRO's heaviest launch vehicle, the LVM-3, is capable of launching only 4000 kg.

What is Falcon 9?

•  Falcon 9 is the world's first orbital class reusable rocket.
•  Reusability allows SpaceX to refly the most expensive parts of the rocket, which in turn drives down the cost of space access.

3. One Day One Genome’ initiative

Tags: Science and Technology

One Day One Genome’ initiative 

Why in news?

• The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) introducesthe 'One Day One Genome' initiative to showcase the enormous microbial potentialof India.

What is One Day One Genome’ initiative ?

•  Shri.Amitabh Kant, India’s G-20 Sherpa and Former CEO NITI announced the launch of ‘One Day One Genome Initiative’ on the 1st foundation day of BRIC held in National Institute of Immunology (NII),New Delhion 9th November 2024.
• 'One Day One Genome’ initiative will highlight the unique bacterial species found in our country and emphasize their critical roles in environment, agriculture and the human health.

Significance:

• One Day One Genome’ initiative to harness the microbial potential of India.
• Microorganisms are crucial for our ecosystem.They play an important role in all biogeochemical cycles, soil formation, mineral purification, degradation of organic wastes and toxic pollutants along with methane production.
• Cumulatively they help to maintain the homeostasis in our planet. In agriculture, they help in nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, maintaining soil fertility, controlling pest and weeds and stress responses. 
• There are much more microbial cells than the number of human cells in a human body. They are essential for our digestion, immunity and even mental health.
• Genome sequencing will allow the visualization of the hidden potential of the microbial world to the community at large. 
•  Research in this field will lead to the benefit of better protection and management of our environment, development in agriculture and improvement in human health.
• This initiative aims a release a fully annotated bacteriological genome isolated in the country freely available to the public.
•  This initiative coordinated by Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council-National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (BRIC-NIBMG) an institute of the Department of Biotechnology.
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4. 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.

5. South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC-25)

Tags: Science and Technology

South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC-25)

Why in news?

• Recently 25th  Meeting of the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC-25) was held at New Delhi, India from 11th to 13thNovember, 2024,hosted by theTelecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT), 

Features:

• SATRC-25’s program features key discussions that emphasize the theme of “Accelerating Telecommunication and ICT Development for Growth and Inclusiveness,” promoting digital transformation for economic and social prosperity in the region.
• The Meeting was inaugurated by the Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Hon’ble Minister of Communications on the 11th November.
• SATRC-25 elected Mr. Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India as the Chair of SATRC.

 What is SATRC?

• SATRC is an initiative under the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) that promotes regional cooperation and harmonized regulatory practices across South Asia’s telecommunications sector,With members including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Objectives of SATRC:

• SATRC is dedicated to creating a digitally inclusive society by supporting regulatory innovation, policy alignment, and cooperative efforts to bridge digital divides in the region.
• The meeting concluded with a strong call to action for regulators of all SATRC countries to exchange best practices and  collaborate in tackling the challenges presented by emerging technologies and services.
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6. IIT Ropar have unveiled an innovative solution to make continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy more accessible and affordable.

Tags: Science and Technology

 IIT-Ropar 

Why in news?

• In a significant breakthrough for post-surgical knee rehabilitation, researchers at IIT Ropar have unveiled an innovative solution to make continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy more accessible and affordable.

Important Points:

• The team at IIT Ropar has developed a Completely Mechanical Passive Motion Machine for Knee Rehabilitation that has been awarded a patent .
• Unlike traditional motorized CPM machines, which are expensive and depend on electricity, the newly developed device is entirely mechanical.
• It utilizes a piston and pulley system, which stores air as the user pulls a handle, enabling smooth and controlled motion to aid in knee rehabilitation. This simple yet effective design eliminates the need for electricity, batteries, or motors, making it both lightweight and portable.
• The mechanical CPM machine offers a promising alternative to costly electric machines that are often out of reach for many patients, especially in rural areas with unreliable electricity supply. By reducing the reliance on electricity, it makes continuous passive motion therapy feasible even in off-grid locations.

Significant:

• Its portability allows for patients to use it in the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays and rehabilitation visits.
• The introduction of this mechanical machine offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative, opening up new possibilities for affordable healthcare solutions in knee rehabilitation.
• The development of this innovative device marks a significant step towards improving access to healthcare for all, particularly in regions where resources are limited. 
• “This device has the potential to revolutionize knee rehabilitation in India, where access to advanced medical technology can be limited, particularly in rural areas.
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7. EV as a Service’ Programme

Tags: Science and Technology

'EV as a Service’ Programme

Why in news?

• Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs,Shri Manohar Lal  unveiled Convergence Energy Services Limited’s (CESL) ‘EV as a Service’ program at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi.

Aim of Programme:

• To accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles across central and state government departments, CPSEs, and other institutions.

Significance:

• The program is set to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles within the government, with a goal to deploy 5,000 electric cars over the next two years.
•  By offering a flexible procurement model, ‘EV as a Service’ allows government offices to select electric vehicles that best meet their specific operational needs, supporting both India’s green energy goals and the target of net zero emissions by 2070. 
• CESL’s initiatives, including the deployment of nearly 2,000 electric cars and plans for approximately 17,000 electric buses, are integral to reducing carbon emissions and advancing energy security in India.
• The ‘EV as a Service’ program demonstrates CESL’s dedication to clean mobility and sets a remarkable example on India’s path to greener transportation.” 
•  this program aligns with India’s larger electric mobility goals and promotes collaboration among manufacturers, policymakers, and fleet operators.
• The event included an EV Exhibition and rally, showcasing over 100 electric vehicles across different categories, such as e-bicycles, two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, e-tractors, e-charging vans, and e-cargo pickups. 
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8. Gujarat becomes India's first state to implement a dedicated semiconductor policy

Tags: Science and Technology

Gujarat becomes India's first state to implement a dedicated semiconductor policy

 Why in news?

• CG Power and Renesas will set up a state-of-the-art Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility in Sanand, a project totaling morethan Rs 7,500 crore.
• The government has also approvedKeynes Semicon’s facility in Sanand, anticipated to produce around 6 million chips daily with an investment of Rs 3,300 crore. 

Aim:

• ambitious policy aims to solidify Gujarat’s position as a leader in semiconductor self-reliance, supported by the newly created ‘Gujarat State Electronics Mission.’

Key features:

• Enhancing central government support for semiconductor units, the state offers additional financial assistance,including a 40% subsidyfor capital expenditure. 
• The policy further offers semiconductor businesses incentives, such as a 100% one-time refund on stamp dutyand registration fees, a Rs 2 per unit electricity subsidy, and a Rs 12 per cubic-metre rate for water.
•  The policy also includes up to 75% land acquisition subsidy for semiconductor units in Dholera, which is being developed as India’s first Greenfield Smart City.
• This region, envisioned as‘Semicon City,’ is a strategic hub aimed at attracting semiconductor investments and fostering industry growth.

Benefits:

• These projects, supported by the Gujarat Semiconductor Policy, are set to generate thousands of high-skilled jobs across the state.
• This state-level initiative complements the central government’s‘India Semiconductor Mission,’ launched in 2021 with a budget of Rs 76,000 croreto boost domestic semiconductor production.
•  India’s semiconductor market,valued at $15 billion in 2020, is projected to surpass $63 billion 2026.
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9. Project-BHISHM: World's first indigenous portable hospital

Tags: Science and Technology

Project-BHISHM: World's first indigenous portable hospital

What is Project BHISHM ?

• It is medical readiness and response capabilities. It involves the deployment of mobile hospitals known as Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube-BHISHM. 
• These units are equipped with cutting-edge technology and are designed totreat up to 200 casualties.

 Key features of Project BHISHMA:

•  Portable hospitals :The program uses mobile hospitals called Arogya Maitri Disaster  Management Cube-BHISHM. These hospitals are made up of compact, portable "mini cubes" that can be joined together to form a full BHISHM Cube. 
• Rapid deployment:The cubes can be deployed quickly by air, sea, land, or drone. 
• Advanced technology :The cubes use Radio-frequency identification (RFID) for inventory management and digital support in 180 languages. They also use artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics for real-time monitoring and efficient management. 
• Medical equipment: The cubes are equipped with advanced medical equipment, including an operation theater, mini-ICUs, ventilators, blood-testing equipment, and an X-ray machine. 
• Capacity:A single BHISHM Cube can provide medical care for up to 200 cases, including surgical procedures. 

Global impact:

• India has shared its BHISHM innovation with other countries to strengthen its role in international humanitarian efforts. 
• For example, India donated four BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine to enhance emergency medical care during the conflict with Russia. 
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10. Microsoft has introduced a new multi-agent AI system called Magnetic-One based on a single AI model.

Tags: Science and Technology

Magnetic-One

 Why in the news?

• Microsoft has introduced a new multi-agent AI system called Magnetic-One based on a single AI model.

Key features:

• This AI system aims to simplify complex, multi-step tasks by leveraging multiple AI agents,each with unique capabilities, to perform tasks collaboratively. 
• This cutting-edge technology is designed to operate efficiently on web browsers or locally on a device, offering a versatile solution for users in need of advanced, automated task management.
•  The company has made the framework open-source and accessible to all developers and researchers even for commercial purposes under a custom Microsoft License. 
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