Published on: April 5, 2024
Snippets :3-5 APRIL 2024
Snippets :3-5 APRIL 2024
- Indian physicists, along with an international team, used 5,000 robotic “eyes” on a telescope in Arizona to create the largest 3D map of the universe, covering 11 billion years of cosmic evolution. This map reveals galaxy distribution and movements, showing a “cosmic web” and providing insights into dark energy, although dark matter remains a mystery. Discoveries include potential dark energy evolution and insights into the universe’s state three billion years after the Big Bang. Indian physicists from TIFR played a crucial role in developing models and using supercomputers for mapping precision. Multiple research papers were published online to share the findings
- Recently, the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru has developed a new platform called OptiDrop. It is an innovative microfluidic chip-based platform that simplifies and reduces the cost of studying single cells. It employs a novel approach that enables precise and cost-effective analysis of single cells encapsulated in droplets
- Punnett squares are a way to predict the possible genetic outcomes of the offspring when two individuals with known genotypes are crossed
- Recently, an international team of astronomers and astrophysicists has confirmed the first known observance of a tidally locked super-Earth exoplanet. A tidally-locked planet in its orbit around a star keeps the same face towards the star. This happens when the rotation period of the planet around its own axis becomes equal to its revolution period around the star
- Kodaikanal Solar Observatory celebrates 125 years of studying the Sun. Established on 1 April 1899 by the British, the Observatory has one of the longest continuous daily records of the Sun in the world, and this unique database has been digitised and is publicly available for astronomers from across the globe
- In 2024, Karnataka faced deficient rainfall (-34%) with severe shortages in South-interior areas (-68%), impacting groundwater and escalating temperatures. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) monitors disasters and emphasizes sustainable water management amid changing weather conditions. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), established in 1988, expanded its role in 2007 to monitor all natural disasters and focuses on hazard mapping, real-time monitoring, and early warning systems using advanced technology and community engagement strategies to support agriculture and disaster management
- The RBI plans to establish DIGITA to combat cyber fraud and regulate illegal lending apps, verifying and maintaining a public register of approved apps. DIGITA’s role in law enforcement will aid in curbing financial crimes in digital lending. Collaboration with the IT Ministry and Google aims to ensure transparency and accountability by vetting apps and enforcing updated policies on Google PlayStore for RBI-regulated entities or their partners.
- SEBI introduced SCORES 2.0, enhancing the securities market’s complaint redress system with features like auto-routing, reduced timelines (21 days), and two-level reviews. This online platform integrates with the KYC Registration Agency for seamless investor registration and builds on SCORES 1.0, launched in 2011 for online grievance redressal. Investors can now easily lodge complaints and track their resolution status through SCORES 2.0.
- RBI has maintained its policy rates, keeping the repo rate at 6.5% with a stance of ‘withdrawal of accommodation.’ The decision was reached by a 5:1 majority in the MPC, considering a positive economic outlook but with lingering concerns about food inflation. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized vigilance on inflation, expecting moderation in headline inflation supported by upcoming harvests and a normal monsoon. This cautious approach aims to balance inflation targets while supporting economic growth, with the GDP growth forecast retained at 7% for fiscal 2024-25.
- CERN launched the White Rabbit Collaboration, focusing on open-source technology for precise device synchronization, initially designed for accelerators. It now spans industries like finance and research, aiming to advance timing technologies and possibly impact global time dissemination via optical fiber. The collaboration offers support, training, and R&D facilitation, serving as a platform for innovation and industry collaboration.
- The Union Health Ministry launched the myCGHS iOS app to provide CGHS beneficiaries with easy access to healthcare resources and electronic records. Developed by NIC teams, it offers services like appointment booking, lab reports, and security features like 2-factor authentication. The app’s launch marks a digital healthcare milestone and is available for free download on iOS and Android platforms.
- India successfully test-fired the Agni-Prime ballistic missile at Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha, meeting all objectives and confirming its reliability and accuracy. Agni-Prime is a two-stage canisterized missile with a range of 1,000 to 2,000 km, featuring new guidance and propulsion systems for enhanced performance. Its transportable and storage-friendly design, along with cold launch mechanisms, adds flexibility and strategic significance, showcasing India’s commitment to bolstering defence capabilities in the region.
