Current Affairs- Science and Technology

1/42. Chandrayaan-3 Mission

• Moon Landing Success: India successfully landed the Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon's South Pole on August 23, 2023,
making it the first country to land near the lunar south pole.
• Mission Objective: The mission aims to conduct in-situ experiments on the lunar surface, including soil analysis, and
study the lunar environment.
• Rover Exploration: The mission includes a rover designed to explore the lunar surface for water molecules and soil
composition.
• Key Payloads: It includes a Vikram Lander and Pragyan Rover designed to explore the surface for 14 Earth days.

2/68. Aditya-L1 Solar Mission

• India's First Solar Mission: Launched on September 2, 2023, Aditya-L1 is designed to study the Sun’s outer layers,
including the corona and solar winds, to better understand solar activity and its effect on space weather.
• Lagrange Point 1: The spacecraft will be stationed at Lagrange Point 1 (L1), a point between the Earth and the Sun,
ensuring continuous observation of the Sun.
• Payload: It will carry seven scientific payloads to observe different aspects of the sun, such as magnetic storms and
solar flares.
• Strategic Importance: It will help in predicting solar radiation storms that could potentially disrupt satellites and
communication networks.

21. Mangalyaan-2 Mission

• Mars Orbiter Mission: India’s second mission to Mars, Mangalyaan-2, aims to study the atmosphere, surface, and
subsurface features of Mars.
• Collaboration with NASA: The mission is expected to carry scientific payloads from NASA and European Space
Agency.
• Launch Timeline: The mission is expected to be launched by 2026.

82. Shukrayaan-1 Mission

• Mission to Venus: Shukrayaan-1 will be India’s first mission to study the atmosphere and surface of Venus, focusing
on volcanic activity and atmospheric composition.
• Launch by 2025: This ambitious mission is expected to launch in 2025, equipped with state-of-the-art instruments.
• Global Collaboration: The mission will involve collaboration with NASA and ESA for sharing data on Venus.

98. ISRO’s Netra Project

• Space Debris Monitoring: Project Netra is ISRO’s initiative to monitor and track space debris to protect Indian
satellites from potential collisions.
• Ground-Based Sensors: The project uses ground-based sensors and radar systems to detect space debris in low
Earth orbit.
• Strategic Importance: This project enhances India’s capability to track and mitigate space hazards, ensuring the
safety of critical space assets.

3/78. Gaganyaan Mission

• India’s First Human Spaceflight: Scheduled for launch by 2024, Gaganyaan aims to send three astronauts into low
Earth orbit (LEO) for 7 days.
• Crew Module and Launch Vehicle: The mission will use the GSLV Mk III rocket, and the crew module is designed to
return safely to Earth.
• Training of Astronauts: The astronauts are undergoing training at Russia’s Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center.

32. Gaganyaan's Human Spaceflight Training Facility

• Astronaut Training Facility: A dedicated Gaganyaan Astronaut Training Facility has been set up in Bengaluru to
prepare Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission.
• Simulation Training: The facility provides high-altitude training, centrifuge simulations, and neutral buoyancy
pools to mimic space conditions.
• Global Collaboration: Indian astronauts are also receiving additional training from Russia’s Roscosmos.

95. India’s First Space Park in Kerala

• Boost to Space Economy: India announced the establishment of its first Space Park in Kerala, aimed at attracting
private players in the space industry and providing a hub for satellite manufacturing.
• Job Creation: The Park is expected to create thousands of jobs in satellite design, development, and manufacturing.
• Global Partnerships: The Park will also attract international collaborations with companies like SpaceX and Blue
Origin.
26/61. Artemis Accords – India’s Role
• Global Space Exploration Partnership: India signed the Artemis Accords with NASA for collaborative space
exploration missions aimed at the Moon and Mars.
• Artemis Program: The goal is to return humans to the Moon by 2025 and establish a permanent lunar base.
• India’s Contribution: India will provide scientific payloads for moon rovers and contribute to lunar surface
exploration.
• Global Space Collaboration: By joining, India will collaborate on lunar missions, ensuring its presence in global space
governance.

4. Rudram-1 Missile
• Indigenous Anti-Radiation Missile: Developed by DRDO, the Rudram-1 is India’s first air-to-surface anti-radiation
missile, designed to destroy enemy radar systems.
• Inertial Navigation System: The missile is equipped with an INS-GPS navigation system to locate and target radiation-
emitting sources.
• Operational Range: The missile can be launched from 500 meters to 15 km altitudes, with a range of up to 250 km.

93. India’s Solar-Powered UAV

• Sustainable Military Operations: India’s solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) successfully completed its
maiden flight, capable of staying airborne for weeks without refuelling.
• Surveillance Applications: The UAV is designed for long-duration surveillance missions over enemy territory and
disaster zones.
• Green Energy Usage: This initiative aligns with India’s goal of integrating renewable energy into defence applications.

11/60. AGNI Prime Missile

• Advanced Missile System: The Agni Prime, or Agni-P, is an advanced version of the Agni class of missiles, capable of
carrying a nuclear payload.
• Operational Range: It has a range of 1,000 to 2,000 km and features better accuracy and maneuverability than
previous versions.
• Development by DRDO: It is part of India’s nuclear deterrence strategy and was successfully tested in 2023.
• Technological Upgrade: It is lighter and more accurate compared to its predecessors and features a dual-stage solid
propellant engine.
• Operational Readiness: The missile is expected to be inducted into India's Strategic Forces Command (SFC) after
further testing.

86. India’s Indigenous Drone Swarm Technology

• Swarm Drones for Defence: India developed swarm drone technology that enables a group of drones to operate
together autonomously, improving surveillance and combat capabilities.
• Tested by DRDO: The Defence Research and Development Organization has successfully tested this technology for
both offensive and defensive applications.
• AI-Powered: These drones are powered by artificial intelligence, enabling them to carry out precision attacks and
reconnaissance missions.

16. Spyder Missile System

• Surface-to-Air Missile: India has inducted the Spyder Missile System, developed in collaboration with Israel, to
enhance air defence capabilities.
• Operational Range: The missile can engage targets within a range of 15 km and can destroy enemy aircraft, drones,
and missiles.
• Deployment: It has been deployed along sensitive borders like the India-China and India-Pakistan borders.

18. INS Dhruv Induction

• Nuclear Missile Tracking Ship: INS Dhruv, India’s first nuclear missile tracking ship, was inducted into the Indian
Navy in September 2021.
• Advanced Surveillance: The ship is equipped with advanced radars and sonar systems for monitoring nuclear
missile launches.
• Strategic Importance: It enhances India's capability to monitor adversaries' missile movements in the Indian Ocean
Region.

20. DRDO's Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV)

• First Successful Test: In September 2023, DRDO successfully tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator
Vehicle, capable of speeds 6 times the speed of sound.
• Applications: This technology can be used for developing hypersonic missiles and enhancing military capabilities.
• Indigenous Development: India joins a select group of nations, including the USA and China, with hypersonic
technology.
49. BrahMos-II Missile Development
• Hypersonic Missile: The BrahMos-II missile, being jointly developed by India and Russia, will have speeds of over
Mach 7, making it one of the world’s fastest hypersonic cruise missiles.
• Strategic Importance: This missile will strengthen India's offensive capabilities in maritime and land warfare.
• Launch by 2025: Testing is expected to begin in 2024, with operational deployment by 2025.

88. Indian Hypersonic Glide Vehicle Test

• Advanced Weaponry: India successfully tested its first hypersonic glide vehicle, capable of traveling at speeds over
Mach 5.
• Strategic Importance: This gives India an edge in modern warfare, where the vehicle can evade enemy defence systems
due to its speed and maneuverability.
• Boost to Defence: The technology will be integrated into India’s missile systems, enhancing its strategic deterrence
capabilities

45. INDUS (Indian UAV Drone Solution)

• Indigenous Drone Development: INDUS, developed by HAL and BEL, is India’s first high-altitude UAV for border
surveillance and intelligence gathering.
• Strategic Importance: It will enhance India’s capability in monitoring border areas in real-time, especially across the
LAC and LoC.
• Payload Capacity: The UAV can carry advanced sensors and cameras for long-range monitoring.

22. DRDO's Anti-Drone System

• Indigenous Anti-Drone Technology: Developed by DRDO to tackle threats from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
and drones used for surveillance or carrying explosives.
• Detection and Neutralization: The system includes radar for detection, jammers, and laser-based countermeasures
to neutralize drones.
• Deployment: This system has been deployed at sensitive locations like border areas and critical infrastructure zones.

67. DRDO’s Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs)

• High-Energy Laser Weapons: DRDO has developed Directed Energy Weapons (laser-based) that can disable enemy
drones, missiles, and other threats.
• Defensive and Offensive Use: DEWs will play a major role in electronic warfare and in defending against incoming
ballistic missile attacks.
• Indigenous Capabilities: This is a significant step toward building indigenous defence technologies and reducing
reliance on imports.

64. S-400 Missile System Deployment

• Advanced Air Defence: India has begun deploying the S-400 Triumph Missile System from Russia to bolster its air
defence capabilities.
• Regional Security: The system is considered a game-changer in defending against potential threats from China and
Pakistan.
• Multiple Layers of Defence: It can target and neutralize enemy aircraft, missiles, and UAVs at ranges up to 400 km.

5/41/81. India's Quantum Computing Initiative

• National Mission on Quantum Technologies: India launched the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and
Applications with an outlay of ₹8,000 crores over the next five years, focusing on quantum computing, defence,
communication, pharmaceuticals, and cryptography.
• Collaboration with Global Partners: India is collaborating with countries like USA and Germany for R&D in quantum
computing.
• Key Applications: The mission will focus on secure communication, drug discovery, and financial services.
• Collaborations: Partnerships with global leaders like IBM and Google are part of this roadmap to accelerate the
development of quantum technologies in India.

54. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) for Cybersecurity

• Next-Gen Encryption: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology offers unhackable encryption, ensuring secure
communication channels in India’s critical sectors like defence and banking.
• ISRO’s Involvement: ISRO is experimenting with QKD for satellite-based communication networks.
• Pilot Projects: Initial tests have been conducted between Delhi and Mumbai, and the technology will soon be deployed
across strategic locations.
6/76. India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
• Boosting Semiconductor Manufacturing: Launched to reduce dependency on imports, ISM is focused on building
semiconductor fabs in India with a fund of ₹76,000 crore.
• Partnership with Global Companies: Collaboration with Intel, TSMC, and Samsung for setting up chip manufacturing
units in India and to set up plants in Gujarat and Karnataka.
• Importance: Semiconductors are essential for the production of electronics, telecom equipment, and automobiles.

97. Indigenous AI Chip Development

• AI Hardware in India: India is developing its first indigenous AI chip, which will power AI applications across sectors
like healthcare, defence, and finance.
• Boost to Start-up Ecosystem: The chip will also give a boost to the Indian AI startup ecosystem, allowing startups to
develop more affordable AI solutions.

7/46. 5G Technology Rollout

• 5G Launch in India: India rolled out 5G services in October 2023, with an aim to cover the entire country by 2024.
• Higher Speed and Connectivity: 5G promises to provide 10x faster speeds than 4G, with applications in smart cities,
IoT, and telemedicine. Expected boost sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and education, contributing $450
billion to the Indian economy
• Network Infrastructure: Jio, Airtel, and Vi are leading the infrastructure development, with partnerships for cloud
services and AI integration.

36/70. Indigenous 6G Development

• Next-Generation Connectivity: India has initiated research into 6G technology, focusing on terahertz frequencies and
quantum communication for faster internet speeds and low-latency networks.
• Global Leadership: India aims to be one of the first countries to launch 6G services, with a targeted rollout by 2030.
• Partnerships with Academia: The Department of Telecommunications is working with premier institutes like IITs
and IIITs to develop 6G use cases.
• Future Connectivity: 6G is expected to enable holographic communication, AI-driven networks, and real-time
virtual reality experiences.
• Key Industries: It will transform sectors like healthcare, remote surgery, and smart cities through enhanced
connectivity.

8. LIGO-India Project
• Gravitational Wave Observatory: The LIGO-India project aims to build a gravitational wave detector in
Maharashtra, operational by 2025.
• Collaboration: A joint effort between India and the United States, this facility will work in tandem with LIGO-USA to
study gravitational waves.
• Scientific Impact: This will help India contribute to the global understanding of the universe by detecting cosmic
events like black hole mergers.

9/38/65. National Supercomputing Mission

• Supercomputer Development: India aims to build a (indigenous) series of supercomputers under the ₹4,500 crore
National Supercomputing Mission by 2025. The mission aims to develop more than 70 high-performance
supercomputers in India by 2025.
• AI-Driven Applications: It is being used for drug discovery, weather forecasting, space research, and genomics. to
boost AI research and scientific discoveries.
• PARAM Siddhi-AI: India’s most powerful supercomputer, PARAM Siddhi-AI, ranks in the Top 100 globally, with a
capacity of 6.5 (5.267) petaflops. (developed by C-DAC)

10. INS Vikrant Commissioning

• India’s First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier: INS Vikrant was commissioned into the Indian Navy on September 2, 2022,
boosting India’s naval capabilities.
• Advanced Features: The carrier has a displacement of 43,000 tonnes and can carry 30 aircraft, including MiG-29Ks.
• Strategic Importance: It enhances India’s ability to project power in the Indian Ocean Region.

39. Nuclear Submarine INS Arihant

• India's Nuclear Triad: INS Arihant, India’s first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, completes India's
nuclear triad, ensuring second-strike capability.
• Strategic Deterrent: It plays a crucial role in maintaining nuclear deterrence in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Missile Capabilities: Equipped to launch nuclear ballistic missiles, including the K-15 and K-4 series.
12/59. National Hydrogen Mission
• Green Hydrogen Production: India launched the National Hydrogen Mission to promote green hydrogen
production with an aim to become a global hub for green energy by 2030.
• Investment of ₹19,744 Crore: This initiative will create a capacity of 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen production
annually by 2030.
• Decarbonisation: The mission is crucial for reducing carbon emissions in hard-to-abate sectors like steel and
cement.
• Economic Impact: The mission could create over 6 lakh jobs and avoid 50 MMT of carbon emissions annually.
• Strategic Collaboration: Public sector companies like NTPC and IOCL are actively participating in green hydrogen
production.

74. India’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus

• Green Energy in Transport: India launched its first hydrogen fuel cell bus in partnership with CSIR and private
manufacturers, promoting the use of clean hydrogen energy in public transport.
• Zero Emissions: The bus emits only water vapor, significantly reducing carbon emissions and supporting India’s net-
zero carbon goals.
• Scaling Up: If successful, the project could lead to the mass deployment of hydrogen-powered buses across Indian
cities.

13. KAVACH Train Collision Avoidance System

• Indigenous Safety System: Developed by Indian Railways, KAVACH is an anti-collision technology designed to
prevent train accidents.
• Range: The system works within a 5 km radius and ensures automatic braking in case of a potential collision.
• Implementation: It is being installed in 2,000 km of railway tracks, focusing on high-density corridors.

15. Indian Space Association (ISpA)

• Space Industry Growth: Launched in 2021, the Indian Space Association (ISpA) is a platform to boost public-private
collaboration in the space sector.
• Key Members: ISRO, Bharti Airtel, Tata Group, and L&T are key members, working to make India a global space hub.
• Focus Areas: The association aims to increase India’s share in the global space economy, which is expected to grow to
$1 trillion by 2040.

17. Dare to Dream Innovation Contest

• Promoting Startups: The Dare to Dream Contest was launched by DRDO to encourage young innovators and
startups to develop defence technologies.
• Funding and Mentorship: Winners receive ₹5 crore in funding and mentorship from DRDO scientists to bring their
innovations to the market.
• Focus Areas: The contest covers areas like AI, robotics, and cyber-security.

23. X-Ray Polari meter Satellite (XPoSat)

• India's First Polarimetry Mission: XPoSat is designed to study the polarization of X-rays emitted from cosmic sources
like black holes and neutron stars.
• Launch by ISRO: Scheduled for launch in 2024, it will help in better understanding of high-energy processes in the
universe.
• Collaboration: Developed in collaboration with the Raman Research Institute.

24. SAMUDRA SETU-II Mission

• Naval Mission: Launched by the Indian Navy to assist in the transportation of liquid medical oxygen (LMO) and other
critical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• International Cooperation: Ships were deployed to bring oxygen from countries like Singapore and Thailand to
mitigate the oxygen shortage in India.
• Strategic Impact: It highlighted India's maritime capability in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief(HADR).

25. Indigenous Aircraft Jet Engine

• Jet Engine Development: DRDO and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are working on the Kaveri engine to be
used in Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.
• Collaboration with France: DRDO has signed a deal with Safran from France for the development of the engine's core
components.
• Importance: It will reduce India's dependence on foreign countries for fighter jet engines.
27/77. Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Telemedicine Services: AI-based platforms have been integrated into telemedicine services, especially during the
COVID-19 pandemic, to provide real-time diagnosis and treatment.
• AI for Healthcare: Indian hospitals are adopting AI-driven medical diagnosis systems to detect diseases like cancer,
cardiology and diabetes at early stages, reducing diagnostic errors.
• Integration with Ayushman Bharat: The system will be integrated with the Ayushman Bharat Health Account,
allowing instant access to patient health data for better treatment outcomes.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Private companies like Niramai are collaborating with government hospitals to deploy
these AI systems nationwide.

52.1/66. Unified Health Interface (UHI)

• Digital Health System: UHI is a part of the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM), allowing seamless access to
healthcare services, teleconsultations, and e-prescriptions across India.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Major healthcare players and startups are contributing to making UHI a comprehensive
and inclusive healthcare system.

37. Digi-Locker Integration with Healthcare

• Digitization of Health Records: Under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, Digi-Locker has been integrated with
health records, enabling citizens to access medical reports, prescriptions, and vaccination records digitally.

87. National Digital Health Ecosystem

• Unified Health Platform: India has launched the National Digital Health Ecosystem, a unified platform integrating all
healthcare services, patient records, and telemedicine.
• Healthcare Access: Citizens can access their health data anytime, and doctors can offer remote consultations,
improving healthcare in rural areas.

52.2. Super App for Healthcare

• Unified Digital Healthcare Platform: The government is developing a super app for healthcare that will integrate all
medical services like tele-consultations, lab tests, and medicinal delivery under one platform.
• Ayushman Bharat Integration: This app will be linked to the Ayushman Bharat database, allowing beneficiaries to
access healthcare records and avail treatment packages.
• Public and Private Collaboration: Tech giants like TCS and Infosys are collaborating with the government for
developing and maintaining the super app.

19. COVID-19 Vaccine Development

• Indigenous Vaccine Production: India’s Covaxin and Covishield vaccines were developed during the pandemic, with
over 1.5 billion doses administered.
• Vaccine Diplomacy: India exported vaccines to over 100 countries under the Vaccine Maitri initiative.
• mRNA Vaccine Development: India is now working on developing its own mRNA-based vaccines to enhance
preparedness for future pandemics.

28/62. NavIC Expansion

• Indigenous GPS System: The Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system is India’s version of GPS,
developed by ISRO.
• Global Expansion: NavIC, which was initially developed for regional navigation, is now being expanded to provide
global coverage by 2025. (EARLIER- coverage across the Indian Ocean Region.)
• Use in Smartphones: NavIC is being integrated into smartphones, with ISRO collaborating with Qualcomm and
MediaTek for chipsets.
• Global Reach: India is planning to offer NAVIC services globally by improving the system’s accuracy and expanding its
international user base.

29. ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)

• Cost-Effective Space Missions: ISRO successfully conducted a hypersonic flight test of its Reusable Launch Vehicle in
2023, designed to reduce the cost of space missions.
• Objective: The RLV aims to perform like an aircraft and return to Earth after deploying a satellite, enabling multiple
reuses.
• Future Tests: More tests will be conducted to make the RLV operational by 2025.
30. ISRO-NASA NISAR Mission
• India-US Collaboration: The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission is a joint project to map the
Earth's land surface changes and natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.
• Dual-Band Radar: The mission will use both L-band and S-band radars, making it highly effective in environmental and
disaster management applications.
• Launch: The mission is slated for launch in 2024, and will provide high-resolution imagery for global environmental
monitoring.

31. E-VTOL Aircraft Development

• Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing: Indian companies are working on E-VTOL aircraft, which could be used for
urban air mobility and medical evacuation.
• Strategic Significance: This could revolutionize urban transport by reducing traffic congestion and providing eco-
friendly transport solutions.
• Partnerships: Startups like The ePlane Company are collaborating with global aerospace giants for R&D and
commercialization.

33/63. National AI Portal Enhancement

• India’s AI Hub: Launched in collaboration with NASSCOM and the Ministry of Electronics and IT, the National AI Portal
serves as a repository of AI initiatives in India.
• Government AI Platform: The National AI Portal launched in 2020 is being upgraded to provide more access to AI
resources, training modules, and research papers for the general public.
• Promoting AI Adoption: The platform is helping small businesses and startups adopt AI solutions by offering free tools
and tutorials.
• Focus Areas: Key focus areas include agriculture, healthcare, education, governance, and smart cities where AI can
play a transformative role.

34. Bio-fortification in Indian Agriculture

• Nutrient-Enriched Crops: India has developed bio-fortified varieties of wheat, millets, and rice to combat
malnutrition by providing higher levels of vitamins and minerals.
• ICAR Research: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is focusing on developing crops rich in iron, zinc,
and vitamin A.
• Government Support: These crops are being promoted through PM-AASHA and other agricultural schemes to
enhance the country’s food security.

50. Digital Agriculture Mission

• Technology-Driven Agriculture: Launched under the Ministry of Agriculture, the Digital Agriculture Mission
integrates technologies like AI, blockchain, and drone mapping to improve agricultural output.
• Farmer Database: A unified digital database of farmers is being created for more efficient targeting of subsidies, crop
insurance, and credit facilities.
• Precision Agriculture: The initiative promotes precision farming through real-time monitoring of soil health,
weather patterns, and pest attacks.

80. India’s AI-Driven Agricultural Platform

• AI in Farming: India launched an AI-driven agricultural platform that leverages machine learning and satellite data
to offer real-time advisory to farmers.
• Improved Yield: The platform helps farmers make informed decisions on irrigation, fertilization, and pest control,
improving crop yields by up to 15%.
• Government Collaboration: The platform is part of the Digital India Initiative, aiming to make Indian agriculture
data-driven.

83. CRISPR Technology in Indian Agriculture

• Gene Editing for Crops: India is adopting CRISPR-Cas9 technology for developing genetically modified crops that are
drought-resistant and pest-resistant.
• First Trials in Rice: Field trials of CRISPR-modified rice and wheat are underway to ensure higher productivity and
climate resilience.
• Regulatory Framework: India is formulating new guidelines to regulate the use of gene-editing technologies in
agriculture.

75. Bhuvan 4.0 – Indian Satellite-Based Geoportal

• Advanced Version Launched: Bhuvan 4.0, an upgraded version of ISRO's satellite-based geoportal, offers enhanced
remote sensing data for land use, agriculture, and disaster management.
• User-Friendly Interface: It now provides more high-resolution imagery, aiding urban planners, farmers, and
researchers.
• Disaster Relief: Bhuvan is actively used in disaster relief operations, offering real-time flood and cyclone tracking.
35. Nuclear Fusion Research
• India’s Contribution to ITER: India is part of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the
world’s largest fusion project, aimed at producing clean energy from nuclear fusion.
• Collaborative Effort: Indian scientists are working on key components, including superconducting magnets for the
reactor.
• Future Potential: Fusion energy could provide a limitless and clean energy source, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

40. Blockchain Technology in E-Governance

• Blockchain for Governance: Several Indian states have started adopting blockchain technology for land records,
voter registration, and supply chain management.
• Data Security: Blockchain ensures transparency and immutability, making public records tamper-proof.
• Pilot Projects: States like Telangana and Maharashtra have launched pilot projects using blockchain for property
registration.

43. Digital India Act

• New Legal Framework for Digital Economy: The Digital India Act will replace the Information Technology Act,
2000 to address modern challenges like data protection, cybersecurity, and online fraud.
• Online Content Regulation: The Act proposes stricter regulations for social media platforms, making them
accountable for content moderation.
• Protection of User Data: The act ensures stringent measures for the protection of user data in India’s digital space.

56. Artificial Intelligence for Governance (AIGov)

• AI-Based Governance: The AIGov initiative aims to integrate AI tools in various government functions like public
distribution, traffic management, and tax collection.
• Pilot Project: Launched in Andhra Pradesh, AI tools are being used to analyze citizen feedback for improving public
services.
• Collaboration with Private Sector: AI platforms developed by companies like Wipro and TCS are being integrated into
government systems for improved efficiency.

89. AI-Based Predictive Policing

• AI in Law Enforcement: India has started using AI-based systems for predictive policing, aimed at preventing crimes
before they occur by analyzing historical crime data.
• Major Cities Adoption: Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru police have begun using AI to predict crime hotspots and
allocate resources more efficiently.
• Reduced Crime Rates: Early studies show a 15% reduction in crimes where predictive policing has been deployed.

79/91. India’s National Blockchain Strategy

• Digital Ledger for Governance: India unveiled its National Blockchain Strategy, aimed at using blockchain
technology for transparent governance in land records, supply chains, and digital identity.
• Immutable Records: Blockchain ensures tamper-proof and immutable digital records, making land transactions
more secure.
• Government Adoption: States like Telangana and Maharashtra have started pilot projects to integrate blockchain into
their land revenue departments.
• Digital Currency: The plan includes working towards an Indian central bank digital currency (CBDC) powered by
blockchain.
• Cybersecurity Focus: Blockchain’s inherent security features will also improve cybersecurity in government services
and the banking sector.

94. Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative

• Government’s Cybersecurity Push: The Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative aims to build a more secure cyber
ecosystem for government services by training IT professionals in cybersecurity practices.
• Public-Private Partnership: The initiative is being implemented with support from industry leaders like Microsoft
and Cisco.
• Focus Areas: It emphasizes data protection, securing government networks, and preventing cyberattacks on critical
infrastructure.

44. Smart Cities Mission

• Urban Development: Launched in 2015, the Smart Cities Mission aims to create 100 smart cities with a focus on
sustainable development, digital technology, and urban mobility.
• Key Achievements: Projects under the mission include smart roads, command and control centers, and integrated
traffic management systems.
• Current Status: As of 2024, nearly 80% of the identified projects have been completed across 100 cities.
47. National Cyber Security Strategy 2023
• Strengthening Cybersecurity: The National Cyber Security Strategy aims to bolster cyber defences across key
sectors like banking, power, and telecom.
• Public-Private Partnerships: The government encourages collaboration with private players to enhance cyber
infrastructure and counter cyber-attacks.
• Cyber Response Units: The strategy includes setting up dedicated units to respond to cyber threats in real time.

48/85. Biofuel Program for Aviation

• Sustainable Aviation Fuel: India’s Biofuel Policy promotes the use of biofuels in the aviation sector, making air travel
more eco-friendly and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
• Indigenous Production: The fuel is developed in collaboration with CSIR-IIP from agricultural waste, making it a
sustainable and cost-effective solution for India’s growing aviation sector. India successfully conducted a flight using
biofuel-blended aviation fuel, significantly reducing carbon emissions.
• 50% Reduction in Emissions: This move is expected to reduce emissions by up to 50% when fully implemented across
Indian airlines.

51. Indian Space Policy 2023

• New Regulatory Framework: The Indian Space Policy 2023 provides guidelines for private sector participation in
India’s space missions.
• Private Launch Services: Companies like Agnikul and Skyroot are now allowed to develop and launch private
satellites and rockets.
• Boost to Startups: The policy aims to create a conducive environment for space startups, fostering innovation and
collaboration.

14/53. ISRO’s GSAT-24 Launch

• Communication Satellite: ISRO launched GSAT-24, a high-throughput satellite to enhance telecommunication and
broadcasting services across India. Launched on June 22, 2023, GSAT-24 is an indigenously developed
communication satellite
• Ku-Band Coverage: GSAT-24 offers expanded Ku-band services to boost DTH television and broadband.
• Public-Private Collaboration: The satellite is fully leased to Tata Play, marking a major public-private partnership in
satellite services.
• Broadband Connectivity: It will provide high-speed internet and TV broadcasting services across India, particularly
in rural areas.
• Mission Life: The satellite is expected to have a mission life of 15 years.

84. India’s OceanSat-3 Mission

• Ocean Monitoring Satellite: India launched the OceanSat-3, designed to monitor ocean temperatures, wave patterns,
and chlorophyll concentrations.
• Climate Change Monitoring: It will help study the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and fisheries.
• Data for Fishermen: The satellite will also provide real-time data to help Indian fishermen locate fish-rich zones,
boosting productivity.

55/96. India's Biodegradable Plastics Initiative

• Eco-Friendly Plastics: India is developing biodegradable plastics through the Indian Institute of Chemical
Technology (IICT) to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastics.
• Commercial Production: Plans are underway for the mass production of biodegradable plastic, aiming for a plastic-
free India by 2025.
• Environment-Friendly Innovation: India has developed biodegradable plastics made from sugarcane waste,
reducing reliance on conventional plastics.
• Plastic Waste Management: The government is promoting recycling initiatives and plastic bans under the Swachh
Bharat Mission.

57. Genome India Project

• Mapping India's Genetic Diversity: The Genome India Project is set to map the genetic blueprint of 10,000 Indians to
understand disease prevalence, genetic disorders, and evolution.
• Health Implications: This data will be used for personalized medicine and for identifying disease risks at an early
stage.
• Research Collaboration: The project involves over 20 research institutions across India, led by IISc Bengaluru.

92. National Center for Disease Control’s Genome Sequencing Lab

• COVID-19 Variant Tracking: India established a genome sequencing laboratory at the National Center for Disease
Control to track emerging variants of the COVID-19 virus and other pathogens.
• Faster Response: This facility enables rapid identification of viral mutations, aiding in faster vaccine development and
deployment.
• Global Collaboration: The lab collaborates with international bodies like the WHO to monitor global health trends.
69. e-DNA Technology for Biodiversity
• Environmental DNA Monitoring: India is implementing e-DNA technology to monitor biodiversity by analyzing traces
of DNA left by organisms in the environment, such as water or soil.
• Conservation Efforts: This technology will aid in tracking endangered species like the Gangetic dolphin and tigers.
• Real-Time Data: e-DNA offers real-time monitoring of ecosystems and helps in taking rapid conservation actions.

58. National Robotics Program

• Boost to Robotics: The National Robotics Program aims to integrate robotic technologies in areas like
manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare.
• Skill Development: The program also focuses on robotics training for Indian youth to fill the skill gap in the robotics
industry.
• Key Industries: Sectors like defence, telecom, and automobiles are expected to benefit from advanced robotic
applications.

71. Hyperloop Technology in India

• Futuristic Transport: India is exploring the implementation of Hyperloop technology—a high-speed transportation
system that propels pods through vacuum tubes at speeds over 1,000 km/h.
• Mumbai-Pune Corridor: The government is in talks with Virgin Hyperloop to build a hyperloop corridor between
Mumbai and Pune, reducing travel time to under 30 minutes.
• Sustainability: Hyperloop is considered a sustainable transport solution, using renewable energy to power the
system.

72. Geo-Spatial Data Policy 2023

• Geospatial Data Liberalization: The new policy allows private companies to collect and process geospatial data,
providing them with a level playing field in sectors like urban planning, infrastructure development, and disaster
management.
• Boost to Startups: This is expected to foster innovation among Indian startups involved in mapping technologies.
• Global Standards: The policy aligns India’s geospatial sector with international standards, ensuring more accurate
and real-time data.

73. Hypersonic Wind Tunnel Facility

• Advanced Aerospace Testing: India inaugurated its Hypersonic Wind Tunnel Facility in Hyderabad, one of the
largest in the world, capable of simulating conditions for hypersonic missiles and space shuttles.
• Boost to DRDO: The facility will enhance DRDO's capabilities in developing hypersonic weapons.
• Strategic Advantage: This facility places India among the few countries with the ability to test and develop hypersonic
vehicles.

90. 3D-Printed Houses in India

• Affordable Housing Solution: India successfully built its first 3D-printed house in Chennai as part of a solution to
create affordable housing.
• Rapid Construction: Using concrete 3D printing technology, a house can be built in less than a week, significantly
reducing labor and construction costs.
• Scalability: The technology is scalable, and the government is exploring using it for rural housing schemes.

99. India’s Floating Solar Power Plant

• Largest Floating Solar Plant: India launched Asia’s largest floating solar power plant on the Narmada River in
Madhya Pradesh, generating 600 MW of clean energy.
• Eco-Friendly: Floating solar panels reduce the evaporation rate of water bodies, providing an eco-friendly energy
solution.
• Government Support: The plant is part of India’s commitment to achieving 40% of its energy needs from renewable
sources by 2030.

100. India’s Solar Energy Target Expansion

• Increased Solar Capacity: India raised its solar energy capacity target to 500 GW by 2030, becoming a global leader
in renewable energy production.
• Investment in Solar Farms: Large-scale investments are being made in solar farms in Rajasthan and Gujarat, which
receive the most sunlight in the country.
• Global Cooperation: India is also partnering with countries like France and Japan for technology transfer and
investments in solar energy projects.