CONTENTS
- Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) Missile System
- National Turmeric Board
Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) Missile System
Context:
The Indian defence establishment recently initiated a tender for the procurement of 30 units of the indigenous Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system.
Relevance:
GS III: Defence
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system
- Features
About Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system:
The Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats over short distances. Here are some key points about the VSHORAD missile system:
Purpose and Function:
- The VSHORAD missile system is intended to provide short-range air defense capabilities to protect ground forces, critical assets, and military installations from low-altitude aerial threats.
- It is primarily designed to engage and neutralize threats such as helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and low-flying aircraft.
Development and Origin:
- The VSHORAD missile system has been developed indigenously by India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
- DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), located in Hyderabad, played a significant role in its development, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners.
Users:
- The primary user of VSHORAD missiles in India is the Indian Army. It is designed to enhance the Indian Army’s air defense capabilities in a variety of operational scenarios.
Features:
- The VSHORAD missile system incorporates several advanced features and technologies, including:
- Dual-band Imaging Infrared (IIR) Seeker: This seeker technology helps in tracking and engaging targets effectively.
- Miniaturized Reaction Control System: This system aids in controlling the missile’s trajectory, ensuring accurate targeting.
- Integrated Avionics: Advanced avionics systems enhance the missile’s guidance and control capabilities.
- Dual-Thrust Solid Motor: The missile is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor, which provides the necessary thrust for interception.
- Portability: Both the missile and its launcher have been designed to be portable, allowing for quick deployment even in challenging terrain.
National Turmeric Board
Context:
Recently, the Government of India has established the National Turmeric Board.
Relevance:
GS II: Government Policies and Interventions
About National Turmeric Board
The establishment of a National Turmeric Board in India is a significant step towards the development and expansion of the turmeric industry in the country. Here are some key points about the National Turmeric Board and its objectives:
Objective:
- The primary objective of the National Turmeric Board is to promote the development and growth of the turmeric industry in India.
Composition:
- The Board will consist of a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government.
- It will also have members from key government departments, including the Ministry of AYUSH, Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry of the Union Government.
- Additionally, the Board will include rotating senior State Government representatives from three states.
Industry Significance:
- India is the world’s largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric, accounting for approximately 75% of global turmeric production.
- India holds over 62% share of the turmeric world trade.
Key Producing States:
- The largest turmeric-producing states in India include Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Strategic Goals:
- The National Turmeric Board has set ambitious goals, including the aspiration to increase turmeric exports to USD 1 billion by 2030.
- Achieving this target would not only benefit turmeric growers but also boost the overall Indian spice market.
Benefits:
- The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is expected to bring several benefits, including better coordination, research, and promotion of the turmeric industry.
- It can lead to increased productivity, improved quality, and enhanced global competitiveness of Indian turmeric.
