Science and Technology

 

Science and Technology, Important Development for Competitive Exams. 

Smart India Hackathon 2024: A Platform for Technological Innovation

The Smart India Hackathon 2024 concluded successfully with multiple teams from across India emerging as winners across various categories. The event was held at multiple nodal centres, including the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, G. H. Raisoni College of Engineering, Nagpur, and IIT Jammu, among others.

Key Highlights:

  1. Winners in Mumbai: Teams such as Team Terabyte (Girijananda Chaudhary University Guwahati), Team Shiledar (Datta Meghe College of Engineering Navi Mumbai), and others were recognized for their solutions in problem statements like ‘Conversational Image Recognition Chatbot’, ‘Women Safety Analytics’, and ‘AI-based solution for traffic management’.
  2. Participation: A total of 34 teams consisting of 204 students participated at Welingkar Institute in Mumbai, working on problem statements provided by various ministries, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Department of Science and Technology.
  3. NIT Srinagar: Hosted the Grand Finale for the first time, with six teams emerging as top performers from the 51 nodal centers across the country.
  4. Awards in Agriculture: Prizes for agriculture problem statements were bagged by institutions like Welingkar Institute of Management, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology, and Yashwant Rao Chavan Engineering at IIT-Hyderabad.
  5. Other Winners: NIT Silchar and IIIT Nagpur won prizes for their solutions on oil spills and beach recreation suitability, respectively, at Vardhaman College of Engineering in Hyderabad. Datta Meghe College of Engineering, IIIT and Management Institute Gwalior, and others also received accolades for Earth Sciences problem statements.
  6. IIT Jammu: The Grand Finale saw 28 teams tackling critical cybersecurity challenges, with six teams receiving ₹ 1 lakh prizes.
  7. Notable Guests: The closing ceremonies were graced by dignitaries such as Professor Manoj Singh Gaur, Satish Kaul, Sunit Kumar, and Sandeep Sharma.

Conclusion:
The Smart India Hackathon 2024 fostered innovation among young minds, addressing real-world challenges across various sectors. The event highlighted the importance of such initiatives in driving technological advancements and aligning with India’s vision of a technologically advanced future.

ISRO launches PSLV C-59 carrying ESA’s PROBA-3 from Sriharikota

On 5 December 2024, ISRO successfully launched the PSLV C-59 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, at 16:04 IST, carrying the PROBA-3 spacecraft into a highly elliptical orbit. The mission, a collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), is managed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm.

The PROBA-3 mission, an in-orbit demonstration, involves two satellites launched in a stacked configuration to showcase advanced technologies such as precise satellite positioning, formation flying, and proximity operations. These satellites, weighing a combined 545 kg, were placed in orbit 18 minutes after launch and will fly in close formation to study the Sun’s corona (outer atmosphere).

This launch underscores ISRO’s expertise in commercial satellite missions, with PSLV C-59 marking the second ESA satellite launch using an Indian rocket.

Shukrayaan Mission: ISRO’s Venus Orbiting Satellite Scheduled for Launch in 2028

ISRO has received approval from the Indian government for the Shukrayaan mission, a Venus Orbiting Satellite set to launch in 2028. Announced by ISRO Director Nilesh Desai, the mission will enhance India’s planetary exploration capabilities.

Desai also revealed plans for Chandrayaan 4, a collaborative mission with Japan, aiming for a precise landing at the Moon’s south pole by 2030, pending approval. This mission will feature a heavier rover weighing 350 kg, significantly larger than Chandrayaan 3’s.

ISRO is advancing its INSAT 4 series for improved weather forecasting and communication, incorporating advanced sensors and satellites to match global technological standards in meteorology and oceanography.

Future plans include a Mars mission with both orbital and surface exploration goals, and the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, with an unmanned flight expected in two years, followed by a manned mission.

The Indian government has also approved the construction of a space station, with the first module set for 2028 and full completion by 2035. The space station will serve as a transit hub for future lunar missions, aligning with India’s goal to land on the Moon by 2040.

Scientists at JNCASR identify new pathway for Monkeypox detection and diagnostics

Scientists at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) have discovered a novel method to detect and develop diagnostic tools for the Monkeypox virus (MPV). They identified and characterized G-quadruplex sequences (GQs) within the MPV genome, which are unique nucleic acid structures absent in other pox viruses, pathogens, or the human genome.

This discovery holds potential for creating diagnostic tools and antiviral therapies, as these GQs can be targeted using small-molecule fluorescent probes. The Ministry of Science and Technology emphasized that this work is significant given the global concerns about MPV’s unanticipated spread, unclear transmission modes, and symptoms. The research offers valuable insights into MPV virology and aids in developing diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

India Launches First Indigenous Antibiotic, Nafithromycin, to Combat Drug-Resistant Infections

On 20 November 2024, Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, launched Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic, to combat drug-resistant infections. Speaking at the launch event in New Delhi, he highlighted that the three-day treatment regimen of Nafithromycin is a breakthrough in addressing drug-resistant pneumonia, a condition causing over two million deaths annually.

Developed with support from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), under the Department of Biotechnology, the drug is marketed under the trade name Miqnaf. This Made-in-India antibiotic is a significant step in tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), marking a milestone in India’s pharmaceutical innovation.

ISRO Launches GSAT-20 via SpaceX’s Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral, USA

ISRO successfully launched its advanced communications satellite GSAT-20 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, USA, on 18 November 2024. The satellite, weighing 4,700 kg, is one of India’s heaviest and will provide broadband services in remote areas and in-flight Internet on passenger aircraft.

  1. First-time collaboration with SpaceX: ISRO launched GSAT-20 through its commercial arm, New Space India Limited (NSIL).
  2. Reason for choosing SpaceX: India’s LVM-3 rocket, or “Bahubali,” cannot carry such a heavy payload, and French provider Arianespace lacks operational rockets currently. SpaceX’s Falcon-9, capable of launching up to 8.3 tonnes to geostationary transfer orbit, was chosen.
  3. Operational Lifespan: GSAT-20 will operate for 14 years.
  4. Satellite status: It is healthy, and its solar panels have been deployed.

This marks a significant milestone in ISRO’s efforts to enhance satellite-based broadband connectivity.

World’s first CO₂-to-methanol conversion plant at NTPC Vindhyachal

On November 8, 2024, NTPC, India’s largest power producer, marked its 50th anniversary by inaugurating the world’s first CO₂-to-methanol conversion plant at its Vindhyachal facility. NTPC Chairman Gurdeep Singh called this a “historic step” in carbon management and sustainable fuel production.

The company is advancing various green technologies, including Gen-4 ethanol, green urea, and sustainable aviation fuel. Additionally, NTPC has developed the first indigenous catalyst for methanol synthesis and is progressing in hydrogen and carbon capture innovations. At the event, NTPC also introduced hydrogen-fueled buses in Leh and launched new IT applications.

World’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat was launched into space by Japan

On November 5, 2024, Japan launched LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, into space to test wood’s viability as a space-grade material. Developed by Kyoto University researchers, LignoSat is made from honoki wood, traditionally used for sword sheaths.

After a 10-month experiment on the ISS, honoki was found to be the most suitable timber for space applications. Constructed using a traditional Japanese technique without screws or glue, LignoSat will orbit Earth for six months, testing wood’s resilience to extreme temperatures (-100 to 100°C) and its potential to shield semiconductors from space radiation.

ISRO launch India’s first analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh

ISRO has launched India’s first analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh, simulating life in an interplanetary habitat to advance India’s lunar and interplanetary mission goals. Analog missions are conducted in Earth locations with conditions that mimic space environments, helping to test and solve challenges for space research. Ladakh’s dry, cold climate and high-altitude terrain resemble Martian and lunar landscapes, making it ideal for such a mission.

The month-long mission includes a compact, inflatable habitat named Hab-1, equipped with a hydroponics farm, kitchen, and sanitation, creating a self-sustaining environment. This setup offers insights into sustaining human life for long-term space missions to the Moon and Mars. Collaboratively organized by ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, the mission also leverages Ladakh’s low-oxygen, low-pressure conditions to evaluate life support systems, essential for future interplanetary missions.

AIIMS Delhi starts GRASSROOT trial to evaluate advanced stent retriever for stroke treatment

On October 28, 2024, AIIMS Delhi announced the start of the GRASSROOT clinical trial in New Delhi. This trial will test the safety and effectiveness of a new stent retriever designed for treating stroke clots. AIIMS explained that this device is specifically made to address the needs of stroke patients in India.

Dr. Sailesh Gaikwad, Head of Neurosciences at AIIMS, stated that the trial aims to improve stroke recovery and set new standards for stroke care. He also mentioned that the treatment would be affordable to make it accessible to more patients in India and globally.

India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, held in New Delhi, from 15 to 18 October 2024

The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, concluded on 18 October 2024. The four-day event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15 October, brought together over 3,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from more than 190 countries. On the final day, discussions focused on collaboration to drive digital transformation and innovation.

The 8th edition of IMC highlighted India’s innovation ecosystem, with advancements in 6G, quantum technology, the Internet of Things, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and green tech. The event featured 400 exhibitors, 900 startups, and over 900 technology use cases. It hosted 100 sessions, with more than 600 speakers. On the final day, discussions centered on AI governance and strategies for future regulation and policy.

SpaceX Starship Rocket Catches Reusable Booster

On 14 October 2024, SpaceX achieved a major milestone by catching the massive booster stage of its Starship rocket using robotic arms as it returned to the launchpad in southern Texas. After liftoff, the Super Heavy booster successfully returned, while the upper stage was scheduled to splash down in the Indian Ocean.

The Starship rocket, at 71 meters tall, is the largest and most powerful spacecraft ever built and is designed to be fully and rapidly reusable. This breakthrough is part of SpaceX’s goal to develop a reusable rocket system similar to airplanes, capable of landing, refueling, and launching again within hours. The success of this reusable system is crucial for reducing space travel costs and facilitating more frequent missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

NASA launches Europa Clipper to Jupiter’s moon Europa

On October 14, 2024, NASA launched the Europa Clipper, its largest spacecraft for a planetary mission. The mission’s goal is to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa, specifically to determine if its subsurface ocean, hidden beneath a thick layer of ice, could support life.

The solar-powered robotic probe will travel 2.9 billion kilometers over 5 years and 6 months, reaching Jupiter in 2030. Once there, it will operate in the intense radiation environment of Jupiter, the solar system’s largest planet, focusing on studying Europa’s potential habitability.

New Cancer Therapy Target Identified by IACS Scientists

Scientists from the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) in Kolkata have identified a potential new cancer therapy target by activating the DNA repair enzyme Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1).

Their study shows that cancer cells survive chemotherapy by using TDP1 to repair DNA damage caused by Topoisomerase 1 (Top1) inhibitors, such as Camptothecin. The enzyme Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) enhances this repair process by phosphorylating TDP1, which is crucial for cancer cell survival during treatment. The researchers propose that combining CDK1 inhibitors with Top1 inhibitors could overcome drug resistance, offering a more effective cancer treatment. Further studies are being conducted to validate this approach.

Source : https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2063775

NASA and SpaceX launched Crew-9 mission to bring back astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore

NASA and SpaceX launched the Crew-9 mission on September 28, 2024, from Cape Canaveral. The mission has two people on board and two empty seats to bring back astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for months.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore went to the ISS on Boeing’s Starliner, but it was found unsafe for humans. The Starliner returned to Earth safely, but the astronauts were left behind in space.

PM Modi launches three PARAM Rudra Supercomputers

The PARAM Rudra Supercomputers are a significant milestone in India’s technological advancements. Developed under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), these supercomputers were dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 26 September 2024.

Key points about PARAM Rudra:

  1. Deployment Locations: The supercomputers have been installed in three major cities: Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata.
  2. Purpose: They are designed to support advanced scientific research across various fields, including physics, earth sciences, and cosmology.
  3. High-Performance Computing (HPC): Alongside PARAM Rudra, a specialized HPC system tailored for weather and climate research was also inaugurated.
  4. Self-Reliance: These supercomputers are a testament to India’s push towards self-reliance in technology and innovation.
  5. Cost: The project is valued at around ₹130 crore

India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, to be launched by the end of this year

ISRO Chairman S Somanath announced that India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, is on track to be launched by the end of this year. The Union Cabinet recently approved expanding the Gaganyaan program and constructing the first Indian Space Station.

Somanath also shared updates on the Chandrayaan-4 mission, which has completed its engineering phase. This mission, approved on 18 September, aims to develop technologies for a safe return to Earth after a lunar landing and collecting moon samples. It will help India achieve a lunar landing by 2040. The government plans to build the Indian Space Station by 2035.

Cabinet Approves Expansion of Gaganyaan Program: Focus on Bharatiya Antariksh Station

On 18 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the expansion of India’s Gaganyaan program. This includes developing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) and new technologies for space missions.

The expanded program now aims to complete eight missions by December 2028, with the launch of BAS-1 as a key goal. The Gaganyaan program, initially approved in 2018, aims for human spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit and long-term space exploration. It plans to establish BAS by 2035 and a crewed lunar mission by 2040.

The program will collaborate with industry and academia, with a total budget of ₹20,193 crore, emphasizing technological growth and job creation in space exploration.

SpaceX Polaris Dawn Crew Returns to Earth After Commercial Spacewalk

A SpaceX Crew Polaris Dawn returned safely to Earth on 15 September 2024 after spending five days in space. The mission brought four astronauts back home after completing the world’s first commercial spacewalk. The Dragon capsule landed in the ocean near Florida.

During the mission, the astronauts aboard the International Space Station carried out many scientific experiments and technology tests.

NASA said the mission was a big step forward for the commercial space industry.

India Successfully Tests Ship-Based Missile System VL-SRSAM

On 12 September 2024, India successfully test-fired the indigenously developed Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur, off the Odisha coast.

The test, conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy, was successful in meeting all performance criteria. The VL-SRSAM is a ship-based missile system designed to counter various aerial threats, including low-altitude sea-skimming targets, at close range.

Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis completed the first private spacewalk in orbit

On 12 September 2024, two astronauts, billionaire Jared Isaacman and SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis, completed the first private spacewalk outside a SpaceX capsule. This spacewalk was part of the Polaris Dawn mission, with Isaacman and Gillis spending about 10 minutes each outside the Crew Dragon capsule while tethered. The mission, streamed live by SpaceX, tested new spacesuits and procedures to depressurize the capsule, advancing private spaceflight technology for future Mars missions. The spacewalk lasted 1 hour and 46 minutes at an altitude of 450 miles above Earth.

Isaacman, who funded the mission, exited the capsule first, followed by Gillis, while their crewmates, Scott Poteet and Anna Menon, monitored from inside. The mission focused on testing spacesuit flexibility and movements, with the astronauts providing feedback to ground control. This mission marked a significant step for commercial space exploration.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson praised the success as a major advancement for the space industry. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule, developed with NASA’s support, is the only U.S. vehicle that has consistently sent people to orbit since its first launch.

First Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Governing Board Meeting chaired by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need to find local solutions to global problems during the first Governing Board meeting of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) on 10 September 2024.

ANRF was established based on the recommendations of the National Education Policy 2020 and aims to foster a culture of research and innovation in universities, colleges, and research institutions. ANRF acts as an apex body providing high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India.

SpaceX set to launch private crew on breakthrough spacewalk mission

A crew of four private astronauts is preparing for a risky SpaceX mission that will attempt the first-ever private spacewalk using SpaceX’s new spacesuits and redesigned spacecraft. The mission, called Polaris Dawn, will be launched aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The crew includes billionaire Jared Isaacman, a retired military fighter pilot, and two SpaceX employees. Only government astronauts have previously conducted spacewalks; this is the first commercial spacewalk. Elon Musk described the mission as riskier than usual and emphasized crew safety.

The mission will last about five days in an orbit ranging from 190 km to 1,400 km, the farthest humans have traveled from Earth since Apollo. The spacewalk will occur on the third day at an altitude of 700 km and last around 20 minutes, with the entire cabin depressurized.

Jared Isaacman is funding the mission, which is part of his Polaris program, with future missions planned, including one on SpaceX’s Starship. The crew will participate in scientific experiments to study the effects of cosmic radiation and space vacuum on the human body.

Since the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has become NASA’s primary crewed spacecraft. Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, a potential competitor to Crew Dragon, has faced propulsion system issues during its NASA test mission.

Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile, Agni-4, successfully launched from Chandipur, Odisha

India successfully launched the Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile, Agni-4, from Chandipur, Odisha on 6 September 2024. The launch was conducted under the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), marking another milestone in India’s defence capabilities.

In April 2024, India successfully tested the nuclear-capable Agni-Prime ballistic missile from Abdul Kalam Island. The Agni missiles are long-range, nuclear weapons-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missiles developed by India. The Strategic Forces Command and DRDO were involved in both tests.

India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’

RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group. RHUMI-1 carried 3 Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites to collect data on global warming and climate change.

Technology: RHUMI-1 is equipped with a generic-fuel hybrid motor and an electrically triggered parachute deployer. It is 100% pyrotechnic-free and contains no TNT. The rocket uses a combination of liquid and solid fuel propellant systems, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Leadership: The mission was led by Anand Megalingam, founder of Space Zone, with mentorship from Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of ISRO Satellite Centre.

Space Zone India: SZI is an aero-technology company based in Chennai that provides low-cost, long-term space industry solutions and offers training in Aerodynamics, Satellite, Drone, and Rocket Technology.

Education Initiatives: SZI partners with private and government institutions to raise awareness about careers in the space industry and provides hands-on training. In 2023, SZI led the ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch’ project, engaging over 2,500 students in the design and construction of a student satellite launch vehicle capable of carrying 150 PICO satellites.

Q.: Which organization developed India’s first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’?

A) ISRO
B) DRDO
C) Space Zone India
D) NASA

Answer: C) Space Zone India
RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

  • Initially, their mission was planned for eight days, but they have been in orbit for around eight months due to issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
  • The astronauts are aboard the International Space Station (ISS) longer than expected due to unforeseen circumstances, making the rescue mission critical.
  • SpaceX will send a specially modified Crew Dragon spacecraft to the ISS equipped with advanced life support systems and additional provisions for their safe return.

Q.: Which astronauts, stuck on the ISS due to a fault in the Boeing spacecraft, are set to return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX?

a) Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
c) Chris Hadfield and Peggy Whitson
d) Mark Kelly and Scott Kelly

Answer: b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad held in Beijing from August 8th to 16th, 2024

A team of Indian students won three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad, held in Beijing, China, from August 8th to 16th, 2024. The four-member team, consisting of students from Gujarat, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, competed in categories like the Earth System Project and International Team Field Investigation. Minister of State of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the team for their achievement. The Olympiad is a student-focused event organized under the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ REACHOUT scheme.

Q.: Where was the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad held from August 8th to 16th, 2024?

a) Tokyo, Japan
b) Beijing, China
c) New Delhi, India
d) Seoul, South Korea

Answer: b) Beijing, China
A team of Indian students won three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad, held in Beijing, China, from August 8th to 16th, 2024.

ISRO launches its latest earth observation satellite, SSLV D3

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 16, 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Mission Details: The mission, named SSLV-D3/EOS-08, is the third and final developmental flight for the SSLV, after which the rocket will become fully operational.

SSLV Rocket: The SSLV rocket is shorter at 34 meters compared to the 44-meter tall PSLV rockets. It is designed to place mini, micro, or nano satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Payload: The satellites carried in the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission weigh 175.5 kg.

Key Features of SSLV: The SSLV provides low-cost access to space, offers low turn-around time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, and requires minimal launch infrastructure. The SSLV missions are expected to be 20-30% cheaper than PSLV missions, which use bigger rockets designed for deep space missions.

Q.: What is the name of the earth observation satellite launched by ISRO on 16 August 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.?

a) EOS-08
b) SSLV-D1
c) PSLV-C50
d) EOS-03

Answer: a) EOS-08
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 16, 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

DRDO Successfully Tests Long Range Glide Bomb ‘GAURAV’ from Su-30 MK-I

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named GAURAV on August 13, 2024. The test, carried out from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force, took place off the coast of Odisha.

GAURAV, an indigenously developed air-launched glide bomb weighing one thousand kilograms, accurately hit a target on Long Wheeler’s Island. Designed by the Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad, this successful test marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enhance its indigenous defence capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the achievement as a step forward in strengthening the Armed Forces.

Q: On August 13, 2024, DRDO successfully conducted the maiden flight test of which indigenously developed glide bomb?

A) SHAURYA
B) PRAHAR
C) GAURAV
D) NIRBHAY

Answer: C) GAURAV
DRDO conducted the maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named GAURAV on August 13, 2024. The test, carried out from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force, took place off the coast of Odisha.

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024: Honoring Excellence in Science, Technology, and Innovation

The Government has announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024, one of India’s highest recognitions in science, technology, and innovation. This award honors significant contributions by individuals or teams in these fields.

  • The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team will receive the Vigyan Team Award for their work in space science.
  • Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will be awarded the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in biological sciences.
  • The Vigyan Shri Award recipients include Anandharamakrishnan C, Umesh Varshney, Bhim Singh, Adimurthi Adi, Syed Wajh Ahmad Naqvi, Sanjay Behari, and Rahul Mukherjee.
  • The Vigyan Yuva Award nominees are Dr. Bappi Paul, Dr. Abhilash, Radha Krishnan Mahalakshmi, Purabi Saikia, Digendranath Swain, Prabhu Rajagopal, and Prashant Kumar.

Full List of Award winners : Download PDF

The awards ceremony will take place on the 23rd August on the National Space Day.

Q.: Who will receive the Vigyan Team Award on 23 August 2024?

a) The ISRO-Mangalyaan Team
b) The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team
c) The DRDO Team
d) The Indian Institute of Science Team

Ans : b) The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team
The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team will receive the Vigyan Team Award for their work in space science.

Q.: Professor G. Padmanabhan will receive the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in which field?

a) Physical Sciences
b) Chemical Sciences
c) Biological Sciences
d) Environmental Sciences

Ans : c) Biological Sciences
Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will be awarded the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in biological sciences.

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