Polar Sundial at VSSC: A polar sundial designed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has been showcased in the ‘Rocket Garden’ at the Space Museum in Thumba, Kerala.This sundial serves as an educational tool, demonstrating complex astronomical concepts in a visually engaging manner.The sundial features analemmatic correction, allowing it to accurately display Indian Standard […]
Brazilian Velvet Ant
Brazilian Velvet Ant: A study in the Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology revealed that the Brazilian velvet ant (Traumatomutilla bifurca) has “ultrablack” body parts.These parts absorb over 99.5% of visible light, making them nearly invisible. The discovery highlights unique biological nanostructures with potential applications in technology.Velvet ants are not “ants,” they are a species of wasp […]
Project VISTAAR
Project VISTAAR: IIT Madras has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare to launch Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources).A digital platform designed to enhance agricultural extension services, making critical information and start-up innovations accessible to farmers. Ministry involved: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in collaboration with IIT Madras.
In Flight Internet
In Flight Internet: Air India, part of the Tata Group, has become the first Indian airline to offer in-flight Internet on domestic flights.In-flight Wi-Fi provides passengers with Internet connectivity during flights, enabling access to online services like browsing, streaming, and messaging. Two primary systems are Air-to-Ground (ATG) and Satellite-Based Connectivity. ATG: Uses antennae under the […]
Open Data Kit Platform
Open Data Kit Platform: The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has introduced a revolutionary toolkit using the Open Data Kit (ODK) platform to ensure transparency in public spending and evaluate the effectiveness of government schemes.A digital platform based on Open Data Kit (ODK) technology for designing, collecting, and managing audit-related data. Launched by: […]
Injectable Hydrogel
Injectable Hydrogel: Researchers from IIT-Guwahati and Bose Institute, Kolkata, have developed an advanced injectable hydrogel for localized cancer treatment.A water-based polymer network designed to release anti-cancer drugs precisely at the tumour site, sparing healthy cells. Developed by: Researchers from IIT-Guwahati and Bose Institute, Kolkata.
Mubarak Manzil Palace
Mubarak Manzil Palace: The 17th-century Mubarak Manzil, or Aurangzeb’s Haveli, a Mughal heritage site in Agra, was largely demolished, allegedly by a builder with official collusion, despite state archaeological protection.Located in: Agra, near the Yamuna River. Built by: Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb after his victory at the Battle of Samugarh.
Chhattisgarh’s Green GDP Initiative
Chhattisgarh’s Green GDP Initiative: Chhattisgarh has become the first Indian state to incorporate the ecological services of its forests into its economic framework by adopting the Green Gross Domestic Product (Green GDP) model. This initiative aims to link environmental contributions—such as clean air, water conservation, and biodiversity—to the state’s economic growth, ensuring sustainable development while […]
Faiz Ahmed Kidwai Appointed as DGCA Director General
Faiz Ahmed Kidwai Appointed as DGCA Director General: Senior IAS officer Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, a 1996-batch officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the new Director-General (DG) of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). His appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, fills the position left vacant after his […]
Elephant Population Rise
Elephant Population Rise: Assam’s latest Elephant Population Estimate 2024 reveals an estimated 5,828 elephants, marking a rise of 109 from the previous 2017 count. This synchronised estimation exercise highlights the stability of Assam’s elephant population despite challenges such as habitat fragmentation and human-elephant conflicts. Total Elephant Population Estimated at 5,828, an increase of 109 from […]
