Published on: March 21, 2024

SNIPPETS – 20-21 MARCH 2024

SNIPPETS – 20-21 MARCH 2024

  • Legendary Indian cueist Pankaj Advani achieved yet another milestone in his glorious career as he has been inducted into the Hall of Fame at the World Billiards Museum in Shangrao City in China
  • Barberton Greenstone Belt: It is situated on the eastern edge of the Kaapvaal Craton in South Africa. It is known for its gold mineralisation and for its komatiites, an unusual type of ultramafic volcanic rock named after the Komati River that flows through the belt.
  • India recently achieved a significant milestone with the maiden test-firing of its first indigenous 1500 HP engine for Main Battle Tanks at BEML’s Engine division in Mysuru.
  • AI chip leader Nvidia announced Project GR00T or Generalist Robot 00 Technology, which promises to revolutionise the evolution of humanoid robots.
  • The World Meteorological Organization’s State of the Climate report for 2023 highlighted record-breaking temperatures, nearing the critical Paris Agreement threshold, and alarming environmental changes like marine heatwaves and glacier retreat.
  • The tiger population in Ranthambore National Park has faced fluctuations but rebounded due to conservation efforts. However, genetic studies reveal concerns about inbreeding, prompting the proposal for genetic rescue to increase genetic diversity and offset inbreeding depression
  • The DCTS starting from January 1, 2024, offers duty concessions to Indian exporters to the UK. It replaces the previous GSP scheme, with a transition period ending on December 31, 2023. Indian exporters must adhere to specific RoO requirements and self-certification for tariff concessions. Labour-intensive sectors like leather, carpets, chemicals, and textiles benefited from GSP but face eligibility changes under DCTS. Negotiations for an FTA between India and the UK aim to enhance trade relations amidst changes in tariff rates under DCTS.
  • Grid Controller of India Limited (GRID-INDIA) achieved Miniratna Category-I status, part of a scheme aimed at granting autonomy and incentives to deserving Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) for enhanced efficiency and competitiveness. The broader Ratna scheme includes Navratnas and Maharatnas, signifying the evolution of PSE categorization and the government’s efforts to promote self-reliance and excellence.
  • The 41st Steering Committee Meeting of IPHE recently began in New Delhi. IPHE, established in 2003, aims to accelerate the transition to clean energy using hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. It organizes global efforts for research, development, and commercialization in this sector and serves as a vital platform for sharing policies and best practices. With 23 member countries and the European Commission, IPHE fosters global cooperation and collaboration in advancing these technologies.
  • The Council of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) began its 29th session in Kingston, Jamaica, overseeing mineral-resource-related activities beyond national boundaries under UNCLOS. ISA, with 169 Members including the European Union, regulates mining in the international seabed for the benefit of humankind, ensuring environmental protection and equitable resource utilization.