[Newsbits] 1-8.10.2024: VSHORADS, National Agriculture Code (NAC) & more
On October 2, 2024, an annular solar eclipse will occur, visible in parts of South America as a “ring of fire” with the Moon covering the Sun’s center. Partial views will be seen in North America and the Pacific Ocean, but not in India. Solar eclipses happen when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, and there are four types: total, annular, partial, and hybrid. These events occur two to five times a year, during a new moon, when the Moon’s orbit aligns perfectly with Earth and the Sun at certain points.
The oldest known kohl stick, dating back over 8,200 years, was recently discovered at Yeşilova Höyük in Turkey. Made from serpentine stone and containing traces of black manganese oxide, it represents the earliest evidence of cosmetics use. This finely crafted tool highlights the advanced skills of prehistoric civilizations. Kohl was widely used in ancient Egypt, the Levant, and Anatolia for both cosmetic and medicinal purposes, such as treating eye diseases and protecting against sunlight. The discovery underscores the deep-rooted history of makeup and the importance of personal care in ancient societies.
India has launched the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ to boost cruise tourism, aiming to double passenger traffic by 2029. Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in Mumbai, this mission includes a three-phase plan to improve cruise infrastructure, promote India as a cruise destination, and develop cruise tourism. It aims to increase sea cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1 million and river cruise passengers to 1.5 million. With five key pillars—sustainability, technology, promotion, policies, and research—the mission will create 400,000 jobs and enhance India’s Blue Economy by transforming it into a global maritime tourism hub.
Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty has been honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his lifetime contributions to Indian cinema. Announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the award will be presented on October 8, 2024, at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony. Known for his versatility in films like Disco Dancer and Agneepath, Mithun's career spans over four decades. He was also recently awarded the Padma Bhushan, reflecting his significant cultural impact. Besides his film achievements, Mithun has been active in politics, serving as a Rajya Sabha MP and joining the BJP.
KAZIND-2024, the 8th edition of the joint military exercise between India and Kazakhstan, began on 30th September 2024 in Auli, Uttarakhand, and will run until 13th October. This annual exercise, initiated in 2016, aims to enhance counter-terrorism coordination and interoperability between the two nations’ armies. Tactical drills, including joint command posts, combat free falls, and drone operations, are key components. The exercise strengthens defence cooperation and cultural ties while focusing on strategic interests in Central Asia. It also emphasizes peacekeeping, disaster relief, and the use of advanced military technology.
EURONAVAL 2024, the world’s largest naval defense trade show, will be held from November 4th to 7th in Paris, with over 500 exhibitors from 30+ countries. This event facilitates global cooperation and innovation in naval defense, featuring national pavilions from 13 countries, including the USA and Germany. Over 100 nations, including India, are invited, making it a key platform for showcasing advanced technologies like autonomous systems and cybersecurity. Alongside exhibitions, the event will host live demonstrations and conferences, addressing maritime security challenges and highlighting the latest innovations in naval defense.
The Ayush Medical Value Travel Summit 2024, led by renowned Ayurvedic expert Vaidya Devendra Triguna, aims to position India as a global hub for holistic healthcare. With the theme “Global Synergy in Ayush: Transforming Health and Wellness through Medical Value Travel,” the summit promotes traditional Indian medicine, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Organized by the Ministry of Ayush and the Ministry of Tourism, the event focuses on attracting international medical tourists seeking holistic wellness treatments. Vaidya Triguna’s efforts in spreading Ayurveda globally have significantly contributed to India’s rising influence in alternative healthcare.
Taiwan received its first shipment of U.S.-made Harpoon missile systems at Kaohsiung Port on September 27. This shipment is part of a 2020 defense deal between Taiwan and the U.S., aimed at bolstering Taiwan’s defenses amid regional tensions, particularly with China. The deal includes 400 missiles, 100 launch trucks, and radar systems, with full delivery expected by 2028. Harpoon missiles, designed in the 1970s, offer radar-guided precision to destroy ships, enhancing Taiwan’s military preparedness. The delivery strengthens Taiwan’s defense capabilities but may escalate tensions with China and the broader region.
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) has launched the ANNA DARPAN initiative as part of its 100 Days Achievements program, aiming to digitally transform its supply chain operations. Developed by Coforge Limited, ANNA DARPAN will replace the outdated Depot Online System with a cloud-based platform designed to enhance efficiency, productivity, and data-driven decision-making. The system will integrate with other applications, support mobile access, and reduce operational duplication. As FCI and Coforge gather data to refine the system, ANNA DARPAN promises improved public services and a more effective food distribution network.
IIT Madras researchers, led by Professor Arunn Narasimhan and Dr. Lingam Gopal, have developed a new method using mild laser-induced convection to treat retinal conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal tears. This technique accelerates medication delivery to the retina, reducing the time from 12 hours (via natural diffusion) to just 12 minutes. The method, tested on a human eye model, does not harm eye tissues and offers a safer, more effective treatment option. This groundbreaking research, published in the Wiley Heat Transfer Journal, promises improved retinal care for millions in India.
If you like this post, please share your feedback in the comments section below so that we will upload more posts like this.
Responses