Category: articles

National Quantum Mission

National Quantum Mission India is investing heavily in quantum technology with its National Quantum Mission. This initiative aims to advance research and development in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials, positioning India as a leader in this emerging field. National Quantum Mission (NQM) Overview Aims to advance India’s capabilities in quantum technology across various domains. Approved with a budget of Rs. 6003.65 crores. Objectives Quantum Computing: Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with increasing qubit capacity (20-50, 50-100, 50-1000) using superconducting and photonic technologies. Quantum Communication: Establish satellite-based secure quantum communication within India (2000 km range) and with other countries. Develop inter-city…

PM e-VIDYA 

PM e-VIDYA  Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated PM e-VIDYA Channel 31, a DTH channel dedicated to Indian Sign Language, marking a significant step toward inclusivity in education for children with special needs. Analysis of News:   Focus on Inclusivity Under NEP 2020 The launch aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasizes inclusive education and the welfare of children with special needs. Pradhan highlighted that the education system is increasingly prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity for differently-abled individuals. Sign Language and Cultural Integration Pradhan emphasized the cultural relevance of sign language, evident in forms like dance and drama, and…

Boilers Bill, 2024 

Boilers Bill, 2024  The Rajya Sabha passed the Boilers Bill, 2024, through a voice vote, replacing the outdated Boilers Act, 1923. The legislation aims to modernize regulations on boiler safety, ensure protection against explosions, and create a uniform framework for registration and operation across India. Analysis of News: Key Provisions Safety Measures: Focuses on the safety of workers and property by mandating qualified personnel for boiler repairs and maintenance. Decriminalization: Reduces penalties for non-critical offences, retaining criminal penalties only for four major offences involving serious risks to life and property. MSME Sector Benefits: Simplifies compliance and reduces the regulatory burden,…

Shock diamonds: supersonic heat nuggets

Shock diamonds: supersonic heat nuggets Shock diamonds, or Mach diamonds, are bright and dark patterns in the exhaust plume of supersonic rockets or jets, formed due to pressure differences between exhaust and atmospheric pressure. These patterns result from repeated compression and expansion cycles. Shock Diamonds Explained Definition Shock diamonds, also known as Mach diamonds, are alternating light and dark patterns visible in the exhaust plume of a rocket or jet engine operating at supersonic speeds. Formation Occurs when the exhaust pressure differs from the surrounding atmospheric pressure. Exhaust undergoes compression and expansion cycles as it equalizes with atmospheric pressure. These…

Network Readiness Index 2024 

Network Readiness Index 2024  India’s rise in the 2024 Network Readiness Index (NRI) reflects the country’s advancements in digital infrastructure, innovation, and governance. Driven by initiatives like Digital India and BharatNet, the country is becoming a leader in digital transformation, particularly in AI and telecom. India’s Improved Network Readiness in NRI 2024 India has significantly improved its rank in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, rising from 60th place in 2023 to 49th position. The country’s score increased to 53.63 from 49.93, reflecting advancements in technology, governance, and infrastructure. India achieved the 1st rank globally for AI Scientific Publications, AI…

PAN 2.0

PAN 2.0 Recently the Union Cabinet approved the PAN 2.0 Project to modernize India’s tax identification system. It aims to upgrade the Permanent Account Number (PAN) with features like QR codes, a paperless online application process, and a unified identifier for businesses by merging PAN, TAN, and TIN. Analysis of the News Introduction to PAN 2.0 : The Permanent Account Number (PAN), a 10-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department, is being upgraded under the PAN 2.0 Project. Key changes include : Integration of a QR code on both new and existing PAN cards. A fully online, paperless…

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary 

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary  Tripura Forest Department officials recently detained an autorickshaw driver near Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary for alleged involvement in a deer poaching racket. About Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary: It is situated in South Tripura District. Occupying an area of 197.7 sq. km., it was established in 1988. Vegetation: Three types of forests are found in the Sanctuary: Tropical Semi Evergreen Forest, Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest, and Savanna woodland. Apart from the forest, the sanctuary has a number of perennial water rivulets, waterbodies, and grasslands. Flora: The sanctuary is dotted with 230 tree species, 400 herbs, 110 shrubs, and 150 climbers.…

Is Delhi becoming an uninhabitable city? 

Is Delhi becoming an uninhabitable city?  Delhi’s air pollution is becoming a severe health crisis, with the city experiencing consistently poor air quality, especially in winter. While stubble burning is often blamed, internal sources like vehicular emissions contribute significantly to the issue. Effective solutions require systemic changes in transport, governance, and policy. Delhi’s Air Quality: A Growing Concern Delhi is on the verge of becoming an uninhabitable city, primarily due to severe air pollution in winter and extreme heat waves in summer. These conditions disproportionately affect the city’s poorer population. In winter (October-February), pollution levels peak, with PM2.5 playing a…

A jumbo crisis in Madhya Pradesh 

A jumbo crisis in Madhya Pradesh  The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR) in Madhya Pradesh witnessed the tragic deaths of 10 elephants, likely due to Kodo millet contaminated with cyclopiazonic acid. This incident highlighted concerns over human-wildlife conflict, inadequate resources for elephant management, and the need for research into Kodo’s effects.The government is working on preventive measures. Cause of Death Toxicity from Kodo Millet: Post-mortem reports confirmed that the elephants died from consuming Kodo millet contaminated with cyclopiazonic acid, a toxin produced by a fungus found in Kodo crops. The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) and ICRISAT confirmed high levels of…

Hokersar Wetland 

Hokersar Wetland  Lack of water due to excess deficit rainfall at the Hokersar wetland in the Kashmir Valley in recent years has impacted the arrival of migratory bird populations in the region. About Hokersar Wetland: It is known as the ‘Queen Wetland of Kashmir’, Hokersar (also known as Hokera) is a designated Ramsar site located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is a natural perennial wetland contiguous to the Jhelum basin. It gets water from the Doodhganga River (Tributary of Jhelum). It is located in the northwest Himalayan biogeographic province of Kashmir, back of the snow-draped Pir Panchal. Fauna: It…