1 India is developing indigenous high-speed bullet trains
India has begun development of an indigenous bullet train that will have a top speed of over 250 kilometers per hour , making it faster than any existing train on the Indian Railways network. In a global context, high-speed trains are defined as trains capable of traveling at speeds of more than 250 km per hour, such as the French TGV and the Japanese Shinkansen. The Shinkansen E5 series bullet trains, which India plans to run on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, can reach speeds of up to 320 km per hour.
2 ISRO aims to make space missions debris free by 2030
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Chairman S Somnath announced on 16 April 2024 that India aims to create a debris-free space by 2030 . ISRO Chairman S Somnath made this announcement while addressing the 42nd Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) annual meeting in Bengaluru . During this, ISRO Chairman S Somnath said that as far as future space exploration and space utilization is concerned, ISRO has a very clear plan. ISRO Chairman S Somnath is also Secretary, Department of Space. Somnath said that India is working with the aim to conduct debris-free space missions so that the stability of space can be ensured. I would like to make this initiative an announcement today, perhaps leading to more discussion and debate in the coming days.
3 ESA’s Proba-3 mission to study Sun to be launched by ISRO
In a remarkable advancement in the field of cutting-edge space technology, India is set to launch the European Space Agency (ESA) ‘s revolutionary Proba-3 mission in September 2024 . This unprecedented mission is set to achieve a world first in precision formation flight using two missions. The satellites are designed to work together in perfect harmony, creating a ‘large rigid structure’ amid the vastness of space. The Proba-3 mission is a remarkable feat of engineering and innovation, and will mark an important milestone in the quest to explore the final frontier. The two satellites will combine to form a 144 meter long instrument known as the Solar Coronagraph . This will help scientists study the Sun’s corona , which is difficult to observe due to the brightness of the solar disk.
4 Kannada poet Mamta Ji Sagar received International Literary Award
Kannada poet, Mamta Ji Sagar was awarded the World Literary Award by the World Organization of Writers (WOW) in April 2024 for her remarkable contribution to literature . Mamta Ji Sagar, besides being a Kannada poet, was also a famous playwright and academician. Mamta ji Sagar is the facilitator of Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology. According to Mamta Sagar, this process started eight months ago. When WOW first contacted him to apply for the award. The event was held as a part of the first Congress of the World Organization of Authors in Abuja, Nigeria. The three-day congress was held at the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Writers Village. Which was a community started in 1981 by the famous Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe. The program was a collaboration between ANA and the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA).
5 Gujarat: Madhavpur Ghed Fair begins
The famous Madhavpur Gheed Fair, a confluence of western and north-eastern culture, is starting in Gujarat . Madhavpur Gheed Fair in Gujarat will run from April 17 to April 21, 2024 . This fair starts every year on the day of Ram Navami . Madhavpur Mela (Madhavpur Ghed Mela) is being organized every year since 2018 to celebrate the sacred union of Lord Krishna and Rukmini. Madhavpur Gheed Fair is being organized near Porbandar, the village associated with the life of Shri Krishna and the birthplace of Bapu.
6 Indian Institute of Astrophysics played an important role in shining sunlight on the head of Shri Ram Lalla.
The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) , an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology , has played a key role in the Surya Tilak project in Ayodhya. Under the Surya Tilak Project, on the occasion of Shri Ram Navami in the month of Chaitra, sunlight was shone on the head of Shri Ram Lala at 12 noon. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) team calculated the Sun’s position, designed and optimized the optical system, and performed integration and alignment at the site. The English calendar date of Shri Ram Navami festival changes every year according to the lunar calendar. Therefore, every year on the day of Shri Ram Navami the position of the Sun in the sky changes. Detailed calculations show that the English calendar date of Shri Ram Navami repeats every 19 years. Calculating the position of the Sun in the sky these days requires expertise in astronomy. Indian Institute of Astrophysics played an important role in shining sunlight on the head of Shri Ram Lalla.
7 Mercenary Spyware Attack
Apple recently issued an urgent security alert for iPhone users in India and 91 other countries . The notifications warn that their devices have been remotely targeted in a mercenary spyware attack . Mercenary spyware attacks are exceptionally rare and highly sophisticated compared to regular cybercriminal activity or consumer malware. Unlike typical cyber threats, the purpose of a mercenary spyware attack is to gain unauthorized access to a user’s device. If a device is compromised by a targeted mercenary spyware attack, the attacker may be able to remotely access sensitive data, communications, or even the camera and microphone. These are strategically targeted, high-cost attacks, historically associated with states, targeting select individuals such as journalists, activists, politicians and diplomats.
8 Thrissur Pooram
In a recent judgment, the Kerala High Court has issued directions to ensure the safety and welfare of elephants and artistes during the Thrissur Pooram festival . Thrissur Pooram is a grand celebration of the cultural and spiritual essence of Kerala. The Pooram, celebrated in the Malayalam month of Medam (April–May), is held at Thekkinkadu Maidanam in Thrissur and is considered the mother of all Poorams (annual festivals). It was started by Raja Rama Varma, popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of Cochin (1790–1805) with the participation of 10 different temples. Majestic elephants dressed in traditional attire and traditional orchestra music are part of the festivities. Before Thrissur Pooram, Arattupuzha Pooram was the biggest festival of Kerala.
8 Geroscience: Science related to aging
Researchers have developed a blood test to measure aging by studying DNA methylation . This blood test examines how an enzyme adds methyl groups to the DNA of older adults , revealing a link between this process and aging. It refers to an interdisciplinary field focused on understanding the biological mechanisms of aging and age-related diseases . This involves the study of various factors including DNA methylation, enzyme activity (such as gerozymes (enzymes associated with ageing), socio-economic influences and lifestyle interventions such as nutrition, exercise and music-based therapy. DNA methylation is a process in which DNA molecules Methyl group (CH3) is added to it. It plays an important role in regulating gene expression and maintaining genome stability. It is intended to combat aging and age-related conditions like dementia. The aim is to develop drug-like strategies targeting the specific processes involved.
9 SPACE, a major test and evaluation center for sonar systems set up by DRDO for the Indian Navy, was inaugurated in Kerala.
Dr. Sameer V Kamat, Secretary , Department of Defense (R&D) and Chairman, DRDO, inaugurated a state-of-the-art Submersible Platform (SPACE) for Acoustic Characterization and Evaluation at the Underwater Acoustics Research Facility at Kulamavu , Idukki , Kerala. The space, established by DRDO’s Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory, has been designed as a major test and evaluation center for sonar systems destined for the Indian Navy on various platforms including ships, submarines and helicopters . Space Navy is a significant achievement in technological advancement. It will consist of two different combinations – a platform that floats on the surface of the water, and a submersible platform that can be lowered to any depth up to 100 meters using a winch system. Upon completion of operations, the submersible platform can be winched up and docked with the floating platform. The space will be used primarily for evaluation of the entire sonar system, providing quick deployment and easy recovery of scientific packages such as sensors and transducers.
10 Amitabh Bachchan to be honored with Lata Dinanath Mangeshkar Award in 2024
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan will be honored with the Lata Dinanath Mangeshkar Award on April 24, 2024 . The Mangeshkar family had instituted the award in memory of late legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar , who passed away on February 6, 2022. The award recognizes individuals who have made unprecedented contributions to the nation, its people and society. The Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award, also known as the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award, is a prestigious honor instituted by the Mangeshkar Family and Trust in the memory of the legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar. This award honors individuals who have made unprecedented contributions to the country, its people and society. The award is given every year on 24 April, the memorial day of Lata Mangeshkar’s father and theatre-music legend Dinanath Mangeshkar .
11 Nigeria becomes first country to introduce vaccine for meningitis
Nigeria has become the first country to administer the WHO -recommended Men5CV/MenFive conjugate vaccine , which protects against five strains of meningococcal bacteria. The vaccine, called MenFive , is used to prevent meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis groups A, C, Y, W and X in people aged 9 months to 85 years. It has been developed to help reduce the number of meningitis cases in countries such as Nigeria, where multiple serogroups are common. Nigeria is one of 26 countries in Africa with a high incidence of meningitis, and last year, there was a 50% increase in reported cases across the continent. The Gavi Vaccine Alliance funds the vaccine and related emergency vaccination activities, including the global meningitis vaccine stockpile and routine vaccination programs in low-income countries.
12 MP tops in implementing Centre’s Green Credit Program (GCP)
Madhya Pradesh is the leading state in implementing the Green Credit Program (GCP) of the Centre . GCP has approved plantation in more than 500 land parcels covering 4,980 hectares in 10 states in the last two months. Madhya Pradesh reported the highest area of degraded forest land sanctioned for tree plantation or greening practice, followed by Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Assam. Other states where such land parcels have been approved are Bihar, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Odisha. More than 10,000 hectares of land has been identified for GCP in these states. Fourteen public sector undertakings and other entities have been registered to undertake plantations on degraded forest lands and earn green credits. Individuals, industries, charities and local bodies can also participate voluntarily in the GCP. The GCP aims to encourage non-carbon environmentally positive actions that benefit local soil, water and ecosystems.
13 IMF raises India’s GDP growth forecast to 6.8% for FY 2024-25
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for the financial year (FY) 2024-25 to 6.8 per cent , down 30 basis points from its January forecast of 6.5 per cent. There is increase. The IMF’s update in the World Economic Outlook report said India could register a growth of 6.8 per cent in FY 2024-25 and 6.5 per cent in FY 2025-26 due to continued strength in domestic demand and a growing working-age population. Is. Furthermore, the report estimates global growth to continue at a similar pace of 3.2 per cent in FY 2024-25 and FY 2025-26. This means that India remains the fastest growing economy in the world with a growth estimate of 6.8 percent, which is higher than China’s growth estimate of 4.6 percent during the same period.
14 Sheetal Devi won silver medal in Khelo India NTPC National Ranking Archery Competition
Asian Para Games gold winner Sheetal Devi won silver medal among able-bodied players in Khelo India NTPC National Ranking Archery Competition . She finished second behind Ekta Rani of Haryana who is the junior world champion . In the competition held at DDA Yamuna Sports Complex, 17-year-old Sheetal competed with capable junior archers and lost to Ekta 138-140 in the final of the individual compound event. Sheetal Devi had won two gold and one silver medals in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games this year. He was awarded the Arjuna Award. Sheetal was born with a rare disease called phocomelia . She is the first and only international para archer without an arm . The tournament was conducted in three categories – senior, junior and sub-junior recurve and compound categories. 87 archers participated in this competition.
15 Himachal’s Dharamshala Stadium will get India’s first ‘hybrid pitch’
The HPCA Stadium in Himachal Pradesh has installed a new type of pitch which will be the first of its kind to be approved by the BCCI . The hybrid pitch was installed by a company called SISGrass , which is based in the Netherlands . The new technology provides a more durable, consistent and high-performance playing surface for international and IPL matches. SISGrass entered the Indian market after the ICC allowed the use of hybrid surfaces for T20 and 50 over competitions. After successfully installing hybrid pitches in English cricket grounds, SIS decided to develop the technology in India. Polymer fibers are added to the natural turf inside cricket stadiums to make the surface more resilient to the stresses generated during play, increasing the life of the pitch, guaranteeing uniform bounce and reducing the pressure on groundstaff. Can be reduced. The universal machines used in Dharamshala for hybrid pitches will also be used to make such pitches in Ahmedabad and Mumbai.