Published on: April 27, 2024
Snippets : 26-27 APRIL 2024
Snippets : 26-27 APRIL 2024
- Researchers recently found microbes thriving 13 feet beneath the scorched surface of Chile’s Atacama Desert, marking the deepest discovery of microbial life in the region to date
- REC Limited, a leading NBFC under the Ministry of Power, availed a Green Loan of Japanese Yen (JPY) 60.536 billion. The loan is the first Yen-denominated loan and the first Green Loan Transaction in India facilitated by Italian Export Credit Agency, SACE. The Green Loan aims to finance eligible green projects in India, promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions.
- Microsoft unveiled the latest version of its ‘lightweight’ AI model – the Phi-3-Mini.
- RBI released draft rules for Payment Aggregators (PAs), focusing on regulatory shifts and limited data storage. Non-bank PAs require separate authorization, learning from past crises like Paytm Payments Bank. Mandatory registration and compliance timelines are set for both existing and new entities. Sustainability provisions include net worth requirements and closure timelines for non-compliant entities. KYC requirements are nuanced for small and medium merchants, with restrictions on card data storage but permissible limited data storage for transaction tracking.
- The fourth session of the INC in Ottawa aims to finalize an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. Key objectives include eliminating problematic plastic uses and addressing urgent environmental concerns. INC-5 in Busan and a Diplomatic Conference will conclude the process, emphasizing multilateral cooperation and scientific evidence. Canada’s leadership and host country alliance are pivotal in driving global ambitions. The INC process, mandated by a UN Environment Assembly resolution, seeks consensus and a comprehensive approach to plastic pollution.
- The 6th International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) organized by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) focuses on building resilience into infrastructure systems.
- CDRI, a multi-stakeholder partnership, includes national governments, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic institutions. Launched in 2019 during the UN Climate Action Summit, CDRI aims to promote infrastructure resilience to climate and disaster risks while supporting sustainable development goals. CDRI assists countries in upgrading capacities and standards, tailoring assistance to each country’s risk context and economic needs. With 39 countries and several international organizations as members, CDRI’s Secretariat in New Delhi coordinates activities to generate and exchange knowledge on disaster resilience.
- SJVN Limited inaugurated India’s first Multi-purpose Green Hydrogen Pilot Project at the Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station in Himachal Pradesh. The project aims to produce green hydrogen for coating facilities and generate electricity through fuel cells. It operates using an alkaline electrolyzer powered by renewable energy from SJVN’s Solar Power Plant. The project produces 14 kilograms of Green Hydrogen daily during 8 hours of operation. It demonstrates the successful tandem operation of Rampur HPS and NJHPS, showcasing renewable energy integration and hydrogen production capabilities.
- NASA launched an Advanced Composite Solar Sail System spacecraft from New Zealand, utilizing sunlight for propulsion. The solar sail system aims to orbit 1,000 kilometers above Earth, employing an 80-square-meter solar sail post-deployment. The mission focuses on testing the sail’s performance and capabilities, potentially advancing space exploration technology. Solar sailing reduces costs, provides sustainable propulsion, and opens doors for innovative space exploration missions. Solar sails utilize photon momentum from sunlight, offering continuous thrust and potential for interstellar travel.
- The Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC) adopted a new logo and motto, symbolizing its commitment to preserving historical records. The logo features lotus petals and the Sarnath Pillar, representing resilience and India’s rich history. The motto translates to “Where history is preserved for the future,” highlighting IHRC’s role in safeguarding historical knowledge. IHRC, established in 1919, advises the Government of India on record management and historical research. It comprises 134 members and adjunct bodies like the Editorial Committee and Standing Committee for paper review and recommendations.
- India’s External Affairs Minister joined the First ‘ASEAN Future Forum,’ aimed at exchanging ideas and shaping ASEAN’s development path. The forum, proposed by Vietnam, focuses on fast and sustainable growth with a people-centered approach. ASEAN, founded in 1967, includes 10 member countries and emphasizes intergovernmental cooperation across sectors. The forum’s theme reflects ASEAN’s commitment to inclusive development and collaboration. The inaugural forum took place in Hanoi, Vietnam, strengthening ASEAN’s partnership with India and other nations.
- The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024, released by FSIN, highlights acute food insecurity affecting 282 million people across 59 countries. Conflict, extreme weather events, and economic shocks are major drivers of food crises, impacting millions globally. Displacement exacerbates food insecurity, with over 90 million forcibly displaced individuals facing acute food shortages. Regions like Gaza Strip and Sudan experience severe crises, with imminent famine risks indicated in North Gaza. Urgent action and transformation of food systems are advocated by the UN to address underlying causes of food insecurity globally.
