[Newsbits] 10-23.07.2024: RAMSES Mission, U-WIN Portal & more

The European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing for the Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety (RAMSES), aimed at studying asteroid 99942 Apophis during its close flyby of Earth on April 13, 2029. This mission is part of ESA’s broader planetary defense initiative, prompted by the Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet impact on Jupiter in 1994. RAMSES will focus on how Earth’s gravity affects Apophis, including changes in its shape, rotation, and surface features. In collaboration with NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, which will pursue Apophis post-flyby, the mission will provide critical data to enhance asteroid deflection strategies and ensure planetary safety.

The Indian government is set to launch U-WIN, an online platform for managing vaccinations, as part of a 100-day health plan. Building on the successful CoWIN digital infrastructure used during the Covid-19 vaccination program, U-WIN targets children under six and pregnant women. It tracks immunization records using government IDs and cellphone numbers, provides SMS reminders for upcoming vaccines, and facilitates easy access to vaccination centers. U-WIN integrates with the eVIN system to manage vaccine stock and minimize waste. It aims to improve compliance, ensure portability of records, reduce errors, and provide granular data for policy-making. This initiative modernizes immunization processes in India, enhancing healthcare delivery and governance.

Rogue waves are exceptionally large waves, more than twice the height of surrounding waves, that pose significant dangers to ships and coastal structures. Historically unpredictable, these waves have caused numerous fatalities and shipwrecks. Mathematicians at the University of Maryland have developed an AI model using data from 172 ocean buoys to predict rogue waves with up to 75% accuracy one minute before they occur. This AI, which has shown promising results even with data outside its initial training set, could revolutionize safety measures for maritime activities. Future improvements might include incorporating additional environmental data and more advanced AI techniques, aiming for near-perfect forecasting capabilities.

Prahlad Chandra Agrawal, a distinguished Indian astrophysicist, was honored with the COSPAR Harrie Massey Award 2024 on July 15 at the 45th COSPAR Scientific Assembly in Busan, South Korea. This accolade recognizes Agrawal’s significant contributions to space science, notably his leadership in the AstroSat project, India’s first multi-wavelength space telescope launched by ISRO in 2015. AstroSat, developed in collaboration with TIFR, IIA, and the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre of ISRO, continues to provide valuable data on various astrophysical phenomena beyond its expected lifespan. Agrawal’s extensive academic and professional background includes key roles in NASA and TIFR projects. The COSPAR Harrie Massey Award, established in 1999, honors exceptional contributions to space research and promotes international scientific collaboration.

The Union Budget 2024 is set to significantly impact India’s electric vehicle (EV) industry, aligning with the Narendra Modi government’s goal for 30% of all cars sold by 2030 to be electric. The budget may allocate around 10 billion rupees to the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) strategy, with the Ministry of Heavy Industry submitting plans for final decisions. Stakeholders are keen on a clear FAME-III policy outline, although immediate details might be delayed. Incentives such as subsidized capital spending, higher depreciation rates for machinery, and streamlined GST on EVs and parts are expected to boost EV adoption. With EV sales tripling in FY24, challenges remain, particularly in charging infrastructure. Tata Motors anticipates the industry will achieve self-sufficiency with continued government support, including developing domestic battery manufacturing to compete with China. The FAME initiative, launched in 2019, aims to promote electric and hybrid vehicles, reduce costs, enhance local manufacturing, and expand charging infrastructure, contributing to a cleaner environment and sustainable energy future.

Vinay Mohan Kwatra, a seasoned Indian Foreign Services officer from the 1988 batch, has been appointed as India’s new ambassador to the United States as of July 19, 2024, succeeding Taranjit Singh Sandhu. Kwatra, who has had a distinguished diplomatic career, previously served as India’s Foreign Secretary and held significant positions in various countries, including China, the US, and France. Known for his expertise in strategic affairs and economic diplomacy, Kwatra brings a wealth of experience to his new role, aiming to strengthen and enhance US-India relations.

The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) has been recognized with the best technology award at the 96th Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for their innovative “Process for instant soluble turmeric enriched spice-flavored milk powder.” This technology, developed by IISR experts, addresses the challenge of making turmeric soluble in water and has been commercialized in collaboration with the Malabar Regional Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union Limited, resulting in successful products like Golden Milk and Golden Milk Mix. The award highlights IISR’s significant contributions to horticultural studies and the potential impact of their research on the dairy industry.

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, led by Prof. Sachin Kumar, have made significant progress in understanding the biochemistry of the African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV), specifically focusing on the p30 protein. This protein plays a crucial role in virus attachment to host cells and defense evasion. Their research aims to develop effective control methods, including vaccines. ASFV is highly contagious among pigs and causes severe economic losses in pig farming, with no current vaccines available. The study, involving biochemical analysis and RNA degradation detection, highlights the importance of understanding viral mechanisms for creating disease control strategies and enhancing global biosecurity in the pork industry.

The Assam government directed its Border Police on July 5, 2023, not to refer cases of non-Muslims who arrived in India illegally before 2014 to Foreigners Tribunals (FTs). This decision aligns with the Citizenship (Amendment) Act of 2019, which offers a pathway to citizenship for non-Muslim minorities fleeing persecution from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, or Pakistan. The FTs, established by the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order of 1964, function as courts to determine the citizenship status of individuals in Assam. The Assam Police Border Organization, which identifies illegal immigrants and collaborates with the Border Security Force, is tasked with referring suspected cases to these tribunals. However, the FT system has faced criticism for procedural flaws, including improper notice serving and arbitrary decisions. Moving forward, enhancing the operational efficiency of FTs, ensuring legal fairness, and maintaining oversight are essential to address these challenges.

Ursula von der Leyen has been re-elected as the EU Commission President in July 2024, with her new term starting in November 2024. Her re-election is supported by a majority of EU member states and institutions, emphasizing continuity and stability in the EU. Von der Leyen’s proven leadership, marked by significant achievements such as the European Green Deal, digital strategy, and COVID-19 response, secured her re-election. Her future agenda focuses on green transition, digital transformation, economic growth, and social policies. Despite mixed public opinion and implementation challenges, her leadership is expected to strengthen EU cohesion and foster international cooperation. Moving forward, maintaining policy continuity, enhancing public engagement, and adapting to new challenges will be crucial.

Andhra Pradesh has been awarded the 2024 Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity in July 2024, recognizing its exceptional environmental initiatives and contributions to climate change mitigation. The state has implemented a range of sustainability projects, including climate-resilient agriculture, renewable energy expansion, forest conservation, and water conservation strategies. These efforts have led to improved agricultural productivity, increased renewable energy capacity, enhanced biodiversity, and better water management. The recognition by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation underscores Andhra Pradesh’s role as a global leader in environmental sustainability, inspiring other regions and attracting further investments and support. Continued commitment, strengthened partnerships, and adaptive strategies will be key to sustaining and expanding these initiatives.

Madhya Pradesh has been recognized as the best performing state in the SVANidhi Scheme as of July 2024, due to its exemplary implementation and significant support to street vendors. The SVANidhi Scheme, launched in June 2020, aims to provide working capital loans and facilitate digital transactions for street vendors. Madhya Pradesh has achieved high loan disbursement rates, successful digital payment adoption, and extensive vendor registration. This recognition sets a model for other states, highlighting the scheme’s benefits in economic upliftment and digital inclusion. Moving forward, continued support, scaling successful strategies, and strengthening digital infrastructure are essential for maintaining and enhancing the scheme’s impact.

The Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Act, 2024, enacted in July, aims to enhance public security by empowering law enforcement with increased surveillance, search, and seizure capabilities. Focused initially on high-crime urban areas, it includes provisions for new security infrastructure, advanced technologies, and special training for police. While it promises to reduce crime and bolster safety, concerns about civil liberties, high costs, and administrative challenges persist. Moving forward, the act will undergo regular evaluations, public engagement, and strengthening of safeguards to prevent misuse and ensure effective implementation.

India’s National Quantum Mission, launched in 2022 with a budget of Rs 6,000 crore ($0.75 billion), aims to leverage quantum technologies to address challenges in energy, healthcare, and more. Despite lagging behind China and the US in investment and research output, India has a significant number of students and senior scientists in the field. The mission focuses on quantum computing, communications, sensors, and materials. Strategic steps include fostering young talent, creating a robust ecosystem for R&D, and collaborating internationally to achieve technological leadership and economic benefits.

Summary: The Union Home Minister Amit Shah will launch India’s first toll-free national anti-narcotics helpline, MANAS, on July 18 during the seventh meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD). The helpline (phone number 1933 and email info.ncbmanas@gov.in) aims to provide a secure and accessible way for the public to report drug-related activities. MANAS will help fight drug trafficking by enabling direct reporting through multiple channels. This initiative is part of a larger government plan to achieve a “zero tolerance” stance on drug abuse and make India drug-free by 2047. The launch coincides with the opening of NCB’s new zonal office in Srinagar and the release of its annual report for 2023, strengthening the national anti-narcotics framework. The NCORD system, established in 2016 and strengthened in 2019, plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts among law enforcement agencies.

INS Delhi was named the Best Ship of the Eastern Fleet at the Fleet Awards Function held in Visakhapatnam on July 14, 2024. The event recognized the tactical successes of the Eastern Fleet, with INS Kavaratti, INS Shivalik, INS Sumedha, and INS Sumitra also receiving accolades. Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar and Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar were notable attendees. The Eastern Fleet was active in operations, exercises, and humanitarian missions throughout the year. INS Delhi, a guided-missile frigate inducted in 1997, boasts advanced weaponry and sensor systems, making it a formidable asset.

Summary: India will host the second Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation from September 11th to 12th, following the inaugural meeting held in Beijing in 2018. This event is crucial given the Asia-Pacific region’s significance, which accounts for 33.41% of global departures. The conference aims to enhance regional cooperation, foster innovation, and ensure aviation safety. It will address the projected growth in passenger numbers from 4.5 billion in 2023 to 11.5 billion by 2050, with a particular focus on India’s rapidly growing market. Building on the 2018 Beijing Declaration, the conference seeks to create a sustainable and adaptive aviation environment, ensuring long-term viability for the sector.

Summary: The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, enacted in 2003, aims to enhance fiscal discipline and reduce government debt in India. Initially proposed by Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha in 2000 and implemented in 2004, the Act mandates the presentation of key fiscal documents with the Union Budget to maintain fiscal stability and transparency. The Act allows for deviations in specific situations like natural disasters. Challenges in implementation led to multiple amendments, including recommendations from the NK Singh Committee in 2016 to focus on debt reduction, establish a fiscal council, clarify acceptable deviations, and set borrowing rules. The FRBM Act remains crucial for India’s economic management, especially during global economic instability.

Summary: On July 13, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the groundbreaking event for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel project in Mumbai, costing Rs. 16,600 crore as part of a larger Rs. 29,000 crore infrastructure improvement plan. This 11.8 km tunnel will connect Thane and Borivali, significantly reducing travel time from over an hour to 12 minutes and cutting the distance by 12 km. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance suburban connectivity, and is environmentally friendly with no impact on the nearby Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Managed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 150,000 MT per year.

Summary: Germany plans to phase out Huawei and ZTE components from its 5G networks to enhance national security and reduce economic dependence on Beijing, aligning with the EU’s stance on Chinese technology. Agreements have been made with German 5G network providers to replace these components with safer alternatives. Huawei denies the security threat claims, and the Chinese embassy in Berlin criticizes the move. Meanwhile, Apple has settled an EU antitrust investigation by allowing third parties to use Apple Pay technology, excluding Apple Watch technologies. The U.S. FTC has taken action against the NGL texting app for violating child privacy and consumer protection laws, resulting in a settlement with fines.

Summary: IIT Madras Center of Excellence in Sports Science and Analytics (CESSA) announced a strategic plan to position India as a global chess hub during the “Sports Tech Start-Up Conclave” in New Delhi. The initiative, supported by major sponsors and backed by government officials like Sandip Pradhan, aims to leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance chess promotion, fan engagement, and cheating prevention. Educational efforts include new courses on the NPTEL platform, focusing on sports industry skills, and future programs like a Bachelor of Science in Sports Science and a Master of Arts in Sports Management. IIT Madras aims to blend advanced technology with comprehensive education to boost India’s status in global chess and sports.

Summary: NITI Aayog has launched the NITI GearShift Challenge, a hackathon aimed at fostering innovative business solutions to facilitate the adoption of zero-emission trucks (ZETs) in India. This initiative, part of the broader e-FAST India program, involves participants from various backgrounds to address technical, operational, and financial challenges. The hackathon is structured in two rounds, with the first focusing on rough business plans and the second on developing full business models with industry expert advice. The challenge aims to reduce CO2 emissions, improve air quality, and position India as a leader in sustainable freight transportation.

Summary: The Philippines has been chosen to host the U.N.’s “Loss and Damage” fund board, a significant move aimed at aiding countries impacted by climate change. This decision, made during U.N. negotiations, highlights the Philippines’ role in shaping global climate policy and addressing the Asia-Pacific region’s climate challenges. The World Bank will temporarily oversee the fund for four years, although there are concerns about the influence of powerful countries like the U.S. The Philippines must pass necessary legislation to assume this role officially and is expected to push for stronger commitments from developed countries. The “Loss and Damage” fund, established at COP27 in 2022, aims to support vulnerable countries, emphasizing the need for global cooperation on climate issues.

Summary: Nagaland has won the “Best State in Horticulture Award 2024” at the Agriculture Leadership Awards, highlighting its innovative horticulture initiatives. The award, received by Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse, reflects the state’s successful policies promoting diverse and organic farming, including the registration of Geographical Indications for native crops like Naga Mircha. Key initiatives include the formation of 13 Farmers’ Producer Companies (FPCs), promoting organic farming on 6800 hectares, and the creation of “100 vegetable villages.” These efforts have improved market access, reduced transaction costs, and boosted productivity. The recognition underscores Nagaland’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural prosperity.

Summary: The UN’s “World Population Prospects 2024” report projects that the global population will peak at around 10.3 billion by the mid-1980s, which is 700 million fewer than earlier estimates. Key factors influencing this trend include lower birth rates in populous countries like China. The report highlights significant demographic shifts, including stagnant growth in countries such as China, Russia, Japan, and Germany, and continued growth in over 120 countries post-2054, including India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and the US. The ageing global population presents both opportunities and challenges, with potential environmental benefits but increased demands on healthcare and workforce. Understanding these trends is crucial for sustainable development and policymaking.

Summary: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has launched the “Agri-SURE” fund with Rs 750 crore to boost agricultural and rural tech businesses. Managed by NABVENTURES, the fund aims to improve the agricultural value chain through direct equity support and investments in Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). It targets 85 agribusiness startups with a focus on high-risk, high-impact projects, promoting automation, digitization, and sustainable growth in agriculture. The initiative supports small landowners, enhances productivity, and facilitates job creation in rural areas. NABARD, established in 1982, continues to play a crucial role in promoting rural development and financial inclusion in India.

Summary: Scientists have discovered a hidden microcontinent, named the Davis Strait proto-microcontinent, in the Davis Strait west of Greenland. Formed during the Paleogene period (33-61 million years ago), this microcontinent reveals complex tectonic movements. The research, conducted by Luke Longley, Dr. Jordan Phethean, and Dr. Christian Schiffer, involved analyzing gravity and seismic reflection data to understand the formation of this unique geological feature. The discovery enhances our understanding of plate tectonics and geological history, highlighting the importance of continued research in tectonically active regions.

Summary: On July 11, Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, all NATO and EU members, signed a strategic agreement to enhance troop and weapon mobility along NATO’s eastern flank. This deal, driven by concerns over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, aims to establish an efficient military mobility corridor, reducing bureaucratic delays and ensuring quick deployment in emergencies. The initiative includes selecting optimal road and rail routes, linking marine facilities between the Aegean and Black Seas, and setting up a regional command center for special operations in the Black Sea region. This agreement strengthens NATO’s readiness and collaborative defense measures in response to potential threats.

Summary: The construction of the Viraat Ramayan Mandir in East Champaran, Bihar, has entered its second phase, aiming to create the world’s largest Ramayan temple. Initiated in June 2023 with a projected cost of ₹500 crore, the temple will be three times the size of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, covering 3.76 lakh sq. ft. It will feature the world’s biggest shivling at 33 feet, 22 sanctum sanctorums, and multiple smaller temples dedicated to Ramayana characters. Expected to be completed by 2025, the temple will serve as a significant cultural and spiritual site, promoting religious tourism and symbolizing faith unity and architectural grandeur.

Summary: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has proposed eliminating the “angel tax” to facilitate funding for startups and make them more attractive to investors. Introduced in 2012 to prevent money laundering, the angel tax targets money raised above fair market value, particularly from angel investors. Despite an exemption for investments under 10 crore in 2018, the tax has remained a concern for startups. Removing it could benefit over 141,000 DPIIT-registered startups and stimulate angel investments. Current challenges include a dip in fundraising and valuation drops in prominent startups. The decision now awaits potential announcement in the Union Budget.

India ranks fifth globally in Generative AI (GenAI) innovations, with 1,350 patents from 2014 to 2023, trailing China, the US, Republic of Korea, and Japan. Despite a smaller base, India shows a remarkable 56% annual growth in GenAI patents. Key advancements like transformer models and ChatGPT have spurred patent activity, with GenAI patents rising from 4.2% of all AI patents in 2017 to 6.1% in 2023. India’s strategic initiatives, including the Global IndiaAI Summit, aim to boost its GenAI impact, potentially adding $359-438 billion to GDP by 2030. Key contributions come from RN Chidakashi Technologies and Tata Consultancy Services.

Summary: Project 2025, devised by the Heritage Foundation, aims to overhaul the US federal system if Donald Trump secures a second term, despite his official disconnection from the project. It proposes increasing presidential power, restructuring government workforce, adopting conservative domestic policies, and aggressively countering China’s influence. While some view it as a potential pathway to governmental efficiency and a strong conservative stance, it faces substantial criticism and controversy, particularly from Democrats who regard its proposals as extreme. The project’s impact on the upcoming US elections remains a focal point of discussion.

Recently, President Joe Biden and other NATO leaders met in Washington, D.C., to mark the 75th anniversary of NATO. The primary focus was NATO’s support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. NATO, established in 1949, emphasizes collective defense and has grown to 30 members. It conducts numerous exercises and relies on member contributions rather than possessing its own troops. The U.S. significantly influences NATO activities. At the summit, leaders discussed enhancing aid to Ukraine and bolstering European border security with increased troop readiness. NATO’s commitment to defense spending has strengthened, reflecting its dedication to collective defense and adaptability to global threats.

Summary: Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, recently appointed by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare as the Principal Adviser for the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP), brings her extensive experience as former Chief Scientist at WHO and Director General of ICMR to this voluntary, unpaid role. Her responsibilities include providing technical advice, guiding policy direction, strategizing research, engaging global talent, and evaluating program effectiveness. The NTEP aims to eliminate TB as a major health concern in India by 2025, five years ahead of the global target. Dr. Swaminathan’s involvement is pivotal for achieving these ambitious goals and improving public health in India.

Summary: Bangladesh recently joined the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) as its fifth member during the 8th Deputy National Security Adviser (DNSA) level meeting, enhancing regional security collaboration in the Indian Ocean. The CSC, originally formed in 2020 by India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, and later joined by Mauritius, focuses on addressing maritime security challenges. The CSC has evolved to include high-level dialogues and practical measures, expanding its focus areas to cybercrime, trafficking, and disaster response. The recent meeting reviewed the CSC’s Roadmap for 2023–2024, highlighting actions and strategic goals for regional stability. The CSC’s secretariat is located in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

LHS 1140 b is an exoplanet 48 light-years away in the constellation Cetus, initially thought to be a mini-Neptune with a thick hydrogen-rich atmosphere. New data from the James Webb Space Telescope suggests it may be a super-Earth with a rocky or water-rich surface and a nitrogen-rich atmosphere. Located in its star’s habitable zone, LHS 1140 b has potential for liquid water, with models indicating it could be a “snowball” planet with a central ocean at 20°C. This discovery, led by the Université de Montréal, highlights the planet’s suitability for further habitability studies.

The High Seas Treaty, officially known as the Agreement on Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), aims to protect marine biodiversity and promote sustainable use of ocean resources. Covering 64% of the world’s oceans, the treaty addresses issues like resource depletion, species loss, and ocean pollution. It mandates the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), fair distribution of benefits from marine genetic resources, and mandatory Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). The treaty requires ratification by at least 60 countries to become international law. As of now, 91 countries have signed it, with 8 ratifications submitted. The treaty is crucial for long-term ecological balance and international cooperation on ocean conservation.

India and Russia have set an ambitious goal of achieving $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, as announced during the 22nd annual summit between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key agreements include boosting trade and investments in Russia’s Far East, enhancing technological and financial integration, and collaborating on energy and resources. Efforts will focus on developing strategic corridors like the Vladivostok-Chennai and the International North-South Transport Corridor, and leveraging the Northern Sea Route for better Eurasian connectivity. Despite challenges such as sanctions and trade imbalances, the partnership aims to strengthen mutual economic and strategic interests.

The IUCN’s recent Red List update highlights the urgent need to protect various lizard and cactus species. The Ibiza wall lizard, now classified as threatened, faces significant threats from invasive species like the horseshoe whip snake and human-induced problems. Similarly, the Gran Canaria giant lizard and skink populations have plummeted due to the California kingsnake. Illegal trade, especially of ornamental cacti like Copiapoa, exacerbated by social media, has led to 82% of these species being critically endangered. Proposed solutions include stringent laws, habitat management, international cooperation, public education, and greenhouse cultivation to mitigate these declines.