Published on: July 25, 2024
Snippets : 25 JULY 2024
Snippets : 25 JULY 2024
- ISRO successfully completed the second test flight of the RH-560 sounding rocket to demonstrate air breathing propulsion technologies, achieving satisfactory performance and successful ignition. Air breathing propulsion uses atmospheric oxygen for combustion, reducing costs and improving payload capacity. The test flight monitored 110 parameters, following the first experimental mission with the Scramjet engine in August 2016. Ground tests were conducted at multiple ISRO centers. The RH-560, a two-stage solid motor-based suborbital rocket, serves as a cost-effective platform for advanced technology demonstrations. Data from this mission will inform further development of air breathing propulsion systems
- Amid rising demand for AYUSH products, the Karnataka Medicinal Plants Authority (KMPA) is assessing the demand and supply of plant resources, identifying 37 species heavily used in various medical systems. This unmonitored and often unscientific extraction threatens species like Rauvolfia serpentina. High-demand plants include neem (1,050 tonnes/year), Andrographis paniculata (800 tonnes/year), and Ashwagandha root (470 tonnes/year). The project aims to understand demand, conservation status, and supply gaps to encourage sustainable cultivation and conservation efforts
- Researchers found tinzaparin significantly reduced damage to human cells due to spitting cobra venom. It is a drug used to treat serious blood clots, can reduced damage to cells due to spitting cobra venom. It is a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) with antithrombotic properties. It is used for the treatment of deep venous thrombosis, a condition in which harmful blood clots form in the blood vessels of the legs.
- The Karnataka government has allocated Rs 60 crore to 263 startups under the ELEVATE program, which aims to support innovation and scaling of products or solutions. Launched in 2022, the program provides grants up to Rs 50 lakhs, with a focus on women entrepreneurs and deep tech solutions. Out of the 263 startups, 35% are from outside Bengaluru. The program offers mentorship, networking, and access to incubation facilities, with a rigorous selection process involving industry experts.
- The Department of Posts has released the beta version of the Digital Postal Index Number (DIGIPIN) for public comments. This geo-coded addressing system, developed in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, aims to standardize addressing in India. DIGIPIN will serve as an addressing reference system with directional properties and is intended to be fully accessible to the public. Its benefits include enhanced geospatial governance, improved public service delivery and logistics, more effective emergency response, and a bridge between physical locations and digital representation.
- India tested the Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric ballistic missile defense system at 4:20 PM from LC-III, ITR, Chandipur, Odisha, with capabilities to intercept missiles up to 5,000 km range within the atmosphere. The test involved detection by land and sea radars, using electro-optical systems, radar, and telemetry for performance monitoring. The system includes advanced long-range sensors and interceptor missiles, aiming to bolster India’s national security and advance technology for missile interception.
- The National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) has launched an initiative to document the cultural heritage of 6.5 lakh villages in India, aiming to preserve rural cultural identities and raise awareness about the link between cultural heritage and development. The project includes creating National Registers of Artists and Art Practices and developing digital platforms like a web portal and mobile app (Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar) for accessing and promoting village cultures.
- Abhinav Bindra has been awarded the Olympic Order, an accolade established in 1975 to honor exceptional merit or significant contributions to the Olympic Movement. The award, which replaces the Olympic Diploma of Merit, is given in Gold, Silver, and Bronze grades, with Gold reserved for exceptional circumstances. Bindra, the first Indian to win an individual Olympic gold medal, achieved this feat in men’s 10-meter air rifle at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He also runs the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, supports high-performance training, and has contributed to policy development in sports through various commissions.
