Coordinated Lunar Time
Context: Recently, the US White House officially directed the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to create a time standard for the Moon, which different international bodies and private companies can use to coordinate their activities on the lunar surface. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) Overview Need for LTC: Earth’s […]
India Enhances Timekeeping Infrastructure with Deployment of Atomic Clocks
Context: India is set to deploy its own atomic clocks nationwide to bolster its timekeeping infrastructure and bolster national defense capabilities for the future. The initiative aims to synchronize all digital devices with Indian Standard Time (IST), ensuring uniformity and accuracy across the nation. Spearheaded by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) under the Ministry of […]
India Successfully Eliminates Visceral Leishmaniasis
Context: India has successfully achieved its target to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis, commonly known as kala-azar, as confirmed by data from the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). Relevance: GS III- Health, Prelims About Kala Azar There are three types of leishmaniasis The Visceral leishmaniasis, which is commonly known as Kala-azar in India, is fatal […]
Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) Machines
Context: Recently, the Supreme Court announced that it would soon address petitions for 100% verification of Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips, just ahead of the first phase of voting on 19th April 2024. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of Article: Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) Machines: Challenges with VVPAT machines: […]
Review Highlights Limited Long-Term Protection from Vaccines
Context: A recent review of several vaccines revealed that only five offer protection lasting more than 20 years, and merely three provide lifelong immunity. This variability in vaccine efficacy raises concerns about the durability and effectiveness of immunization strategies. The findings underscore the need for ongoing research and development to enhance vaccine longevity and effectiveness, […]
WHO’s Global Hepatitis Report 2024 Highlights India’s Hepatitis Burden
Context: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has spotlighted India in its recently released Global Hepatitis Report 2024, identifying the country as grappling with a substantial burden of viral hepatitis, notably Hepatitis B and C infections. This recognition underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions, public awareness campaigns, and healthcare initiatives to combat and reduce the […]
MNRE Reinstates 2021 ALMM List to Boost Local Solar Module Manufacturing
Context: In March 2024, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) announced the re-implementation of its 2021 notification for the ‘Approved List of Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Modules’, commonly referred to as the ALMM list. This move aims to bolster local sourcing of solar modules and bolster India’s renewable manufacturing ecosystem. […]
The Advent of a Holistic Approach to One Health
Context: The intricate relationship among humans, animals, and the environment has become increasingly apparent in light of pandemics like COVID-19. These outbreaks don’t just affect human populations; they also impact livestock, as evidenced by the spread of diseases like lumpy skin disease across countries. Relevance: GS2- Mains Question: The One Health approach is not a static endpoint […]
Technology Absorption in the Indian Army
Context: The Indian Army has designated 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’, highlighting its commitment to integrating technology to stay ahead of adversaries amidst evolving warfare dynamics. This initiative aligns with the overarching goal of self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). Relevance: GS-2- Government Policies and Interventions GS3- Mains Question: The Indian military is moving in the right direction, […]
National Maritime Day 2024
Focus: Facts for prelims Why in News? The Prime Minister, has recalled India’s glorious maritime history on National Maritime Day. About National Maritime Day: Theme of National Maritime Day 2024: Significance: