[Newsbits] 27-29.02.2024: Krutrim, Juice Jacking, 10,000 Genomes Project & More

newsbits mindmap notes
Juice Jacking mind map
Recent News
RBI alerts public
February 23, 2024
Warns against Juice Jacking scam
Targets
Smartphone
Laptop users
Risk
Financial losses
When
RBI issued alert
February 23, 2024
Why
Increasing incidents
Cybercriminals employ deceptive methods
What
Understanding Juice Jacking
Cybercriminals setup
Malware-laden software/hardware
At public charging stations
Airports
Railway stations
Crowded areas
Modus Operandi
Connects device to compromised station
Malware steals data
Passwords
Photos
Banking information
Protecting Yourself
Avoid public charging stations
Carry personal powerbank
Avoid public Wi-Fi
Keep devices updated
Install malware detection app
Where
Common places
Airports
Railway stations
Crowded areas
Who
Cybercriminals
Targeting
Unsuspecting users
How
Installing malware at charging stations
Steals personal data when connected
Significance
Awareness
Prevents data theft
Protects financial information
Challenges
Prevalence of public charging stations
Users' lack of awareness
Way Forward
Increased awareness campaigns
Encouraging use of personal charging solutions

Juice jacking is a cyberattack technique warned against by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) where cybercriminals use malware-laden charging stations to steal sensitive information from devices such as smartphones and laptops. This scam typically takes place in public areas with free charging stations, like airports, railway stations, and crowded places. The RBI advises the public to avoid using public charging stations, carry personal power banks, avoid public Wi-Fi, keep their devices updated, and use malware detection apps to safeguard against these attacks. This alert aims to raise awareness among the public about the risks of juice jacking and to encourage preventative measures to protect personal and financial information​​​​.

/ Science & Technology
National Science Day mind map
Recent News
Theme for 2024
"Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat"
Celebrations across India
Kolkata
Series of programs
Involvement of school children
Science walks by Know Your Neighbour (KYN) and Science Communicators’ Forum (SCF)
First walk in College Street area
Second in Rajabazar area
Third in Jadavpur area
When
Date
February 28 annually
First observation
February 28, 1987
Why
To commemorate
Discovery of Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman
To honor
Indian scientists' contributions
What
Key activities
Seminars, lectures, workshops
Science exhibitions
Award ceremonies
Categories
Young Scientist Awards
Innovation Awards
Science Communication Awards
Objectives
Promote scientific mindset
Highlight contributions to national development
Encourage careers in science and technology
Where
Nationwide
Schools, colleges, research facilities
Who
Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman
Discovery
Raman Effect
Nobel Prize in Physics 1930
National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC)
Proposed NSD in 1986
Government of India
Formalized the celebration
How
Organized by
Government bodies, educational institutions, scientific institutions
Activities include
Public speeches, debates, quiz competitions
Radio and TV programs on scientific ideas
Significance
Raises public awareness about science
Encourages scientific temper
Recognizes scientific achievements
Way Forward
Continual promotion of science and technology
Increasing participation and innovation

National Science Day is observed in India on February 28th each year to honor Sir C.V. Raman for his discovery of the Raman Effect, and to recognize the contributions of Indian scientists to the field of science. The day aims to promote a scientific mindset among the public, highlight the importance of science in national development, and encourage young people to pursue careers in science and technology. The theme for National Science Day 2024 is “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,” focusing on the importance of homegrown innovations. Celebrations include seminars, lectures, workshops, science exhibitions, and the presentation of awards to individuals and organizations for their contributions to science and technology in India​​​​​​.

International Astronomical Union (IAU) mind map
Recent News
United Nations addresses satellite constellation impacts on astronomy
Date
15 February 2024
What
UN body puts satellite constellations' impact on agenda
After efforts by astronomers affiliated with IAU CPS
When
Founded in 1919
Why
Promote and safeguard astronomy
Through international cooperation
Where
Headquarters in Paris, France
Who
More than 13,500 professional astronomers
From over 100 countries
How
Divisions
Commissions
Working Groups
Significance
Fosters international cooperation in astronomy
Addresses global challenges like satellite interference
Challenges
Satellite constellations pose risks to astronomical observations
Way Forward
Collaborative efforts with industry and policy makers
Innovation in observation and data analysis techniques

The International Astronomical Union (IAU), established in 1919, plays a pivotal role in promoting and safeguarding astronomy through international cooperation. It addresses significant challenges such as the impact of satellite constellations on astronomical observations, highlighted by recent actions like the UN addressing this issue and the establishment of a new center to mitigate these effects. The IAU also fosters global engagement in astronomy, as seen in activities like the naming of exoplanetary systems and hosting the General Assembly in Africa for the first time, emphasizing accessibility, impact, and sustainability. With over 13,500 members from more than 100 countries, the IAU encourages collaborative efforts among astronomers, industry, and policymakers to overcome challenges and innovate in observation and data analysis techniques, ensuring the continued exploration and understanding of the cosmos.

/ Biotechnology
10,000 Genomes Project mind map
Recent News
Unveiling animal diversity
Genomics-led solutions for all life on Earth
Hidden biodiversity crisis
When
Vertebrate Genomes Project (VGP) aims to sequence all vertebrates
66,000 species
10,000 Plants (tenKP or 10KP)
Plans to sequence over next five years (2017-2022)
Why
To understand how complex animal life evolved
To become better stewards of the planet
To address fundamental questions about plant evolution
What
Genome 10K
Sequence genome of at least one individual from each vertebrate genus
Approximately 10,000 genomes
10,000 Plants (10KP)
Sequence genomes representing every major clade of plants and eukaryotic microbes
Protist 10,000 Genomes Project (P10K)
Generate whole-genome sequences of 10,000 protists
Bird 10,000 Genomes (B10K)
Generate representative draft genome sequences from all extant bird species
Where
Genome 10K
Global
10,000 Plants (10KP)
Led by BGI (Beijing Genomics Institute) and China National GeneBank (CNGB)
Who
Genome 10K Community of Scientists
Assembling genomic data for vertebrate evolution
Major Supporters
BGI-Shenzhen
China National GeneBank (CNGB)
Leadership and Contributors
For B10K
Researchers from BGI, University of Copenhagen, Duke University
Contributions from over 20 countries
How
Genome 10K
Reference-grade sequence to help labs worldwide
10KP
High quality de novo genomes and transcriptomes
Data release every 3 months
Significance
Genome 10K
Aids in understanding vertebrate evolution
Helps in saving dying species
10KP
Addresses plant evolution questions
Enhances understanding of plant biodiversity
Challenges
Funding
Sampling
Sequencing
Assembly
Data analysis
Way Forward
Completion of sequencing all life on Earth
Addressing the hidden biodiversity crisis
Expanding understanding of avian biology and evolution

The “10,000 Genomes Project” refers to several ambitious initiatives aimed at sequencing the genomes of a wide range of species across the animal kingdom, including vertebrates, plants, and protists, to better understand biological diversity and evolution. These projects, such as the Genome 10K for vertebrates, the 10,000 Plant Genomes (10KP), and the Bird 10,000 Genomes (B10K), aim to generate comprehensive genetic data that will enhance our knowledge of life on Earth, contribute to conservation efforts, and address fundamental questions in biology and ecology. By sequencing at least one individual from each vertebrate genus, every major clade of plants, eukaryotic microbes, and all extant bird species, these projects collectively represent a significant step toward the ultimate goal of sequencing all life on Earth. Challenges such as funding, sampling, sequencing, assembly, and data analysis are being addressed through international collaboration and advancements in sequencing technologies​​​​​​.

/ Space
Three New Moons Around Uranus and Neptune mind map
Recent News
Discovery announced
February 23, 2024
When
Discovered in November 2023
Follow-up observations
December 2023
October 2021
November 2023
Why
Expand knowledge on ice giants
Understand moon formation
What
Uranus
New moon
S/2023 U1
8 km across
680-day orbit
Neptune
New moons
S/2002 N5
23 km across
9-year orbit
S/2021 N1
14 km across
27-year orbit
Where
Discovered using
Magellan telescopes
Subaru telescope
ESO's Very Large Telescope
Gemini Observatory's telescope
Who
Scott Sheppard
Carnegie Institute for Science
Marina Brozovic, Bob Jacobson
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
David Tholen
University of Hawaii
Chad Trujillo
Northern Arizona University
Patryk Sofia Lykawa
Kindai University
How
Dozens of five-minute exposures
Special image processing
Ultra-pristine conditions
Significance
Faintest moons discovered
Smallest moons discovered
Enhances understanding
Ice giant systems
Moon formation
Challenges
Limit of current technology
Way Forward
Search for smaller moons
Technological advancements

Astronomers have recently unveiled the discovery of three new moons orbiting the ice giants Uranus and Neptune. This significant finding, announced on February 23, 2024, includes one moon around Uranus and two around Neptune. The discovery was made using a series of detailed observations and advanced image processing techniques. The newly discovered Uranian moon, provisionally named S/2023 U1, is about 8 kilometers across and completes an orbit every 680 days. Neptune’s moons, designated S/2002 N5 and S/2021 N1, measure approximately 23 and 14 kilometers in diameter, respectively, with orbits lasting about 9 and 27 years. This discovery was made possible through the collaborative efforts of astronomers using some of the world’s most powerful telescopes, including the Magellan telescopes at Carnegie Science’s Las Campanas Observatory, the Subaru telescope, the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope, and the Gemini Observatory’s telescope. These celestial additions to Uranus and Neptune’s moon families enhance our understanding of the outer solar system’s dynamics and the complex processes that govern moon formation​​​​​​​​​​.

/ Banking
Financial Literacy Week 2024 mind map
Recent News:
Theme: Make a Right Start - Become Financially Smart
Objective:
Increase awareness:
On financial discipline
Saving
Budgeting
Power of compounding
Banking essentials
Cyber hygiene
Financial Literacy Ideathon:
Aim: Solicit innovative ideas
Participants: Postgraduate students
Focus: Strategies to propagate financial literacy among youth
When:
Date: February 26th to March 1st, 2024
Why:
To promote financial literacy
Align with National Strategy for Financial Education 2020-2025
What
Activities:
Online mode:
Financial Literacy Quiz for School Students:
Date: February 26th to March 1st, 2024
Participants: Class 6th to 12th
Prizes: Worth up to ₹2.5 lakh
Certificates for all participants
Capacity Building Programmes:
Topics:
Insure Your Tomorrow
Banking Essentials
Invest Wisely
Retirement Readiness
Digital Wellbeing
Speakers from:
RBI
SEBI
IRDAI
PFRDA
NPCI
Digital Financial Services Day:
Date: March 1st, 2024
Indian context:
Conducted by:
National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE)
In coordination with:
RBI
SEBI
IRDAI
PFRDA
Where:
India
Who:
Organizers:
Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE)
Participants:
School students
Postgraduate students
Speakers:
From RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, PFRDA, NPCI
How:
Through online activities:
Quiz
Webinars
Capacity Building Programmes
Significance:
Enhances financial literacy among youth
Encourages informed financial decisions
Challenges:
Accessibility and reach to remote areas
Way Forward:
Increase participation through schools and colleges
Utilize digital platforms for wider outreach

Financial Literacy Week (FLW) 2024 is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing financial literacy across India, especially among the youth. Scheduled from February 26th to March 1st, 2024, under the theme “Make a Right Start – Become Financially Smart,” FLW focuses on promoting essential financial skills such as saving, budgeting, understanding the power of compounding, banking essentials, and cyber hygiene. The week includes a variety of activities conducted online, including a financial literacy quiz for school students, capacity building programs with experts from financial regulatory bodies, and the observation of Digital Financial Services Day. Organized by the National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE) in coordination with India’s leading financial sector regulators, FLW aims to empower young Indians with the knowledge and skills needed for sound financial decisions, ultimately striving for a financially aware and empowered India.

/ Healthcare
BioAsia Summit 2024 mind map
Recent News
21st Edition
Theme
Data and AI: Redefining Possibilities
Satellite Events
Conferences
Healthcare for All
Operationalizing the "One Health" approach
Healthcare Reimagined: Telemedicine, Wearables & METAVERSE
Economic and Public Implications of AMR
Redefining Drug R&D Innovation
Global Supply Chain transformation
The ESG Revolution in Pharma
VCs & PEs Driving Innovation and Enabling Equity
Med-tech Penetration - The Way Ahead
Expert Sessions
Global thought leaders debate emerging trends
International Trade Show
Showcase innovations to global audience
CEO Conclave
Exclusive event for C-Level executives
BioAsia Connect
B2B portal for business development
Networking Receptions
Informal interactions and collaborations
Biopark Visit
Guided visit to Genome Valley
Workshops
Covering diverse industry needs
When
February 26 to 28, 2024
Where
Hyderabad, India
Hyderabad International Convention Center (HICC)
Who
Organized by
Government of Telangana
In partnership with
EY
Participant Profile
CROs, CMOs & CRAMs
Biotech & Pharma Companies
Government & Regulatory Authorities
Freight & Logistics Service Providers
Medical Device & Equipment Manufacturers
Academic & Research Institutes
IP/Law and Patent Firms
Healthcare IT Solution Providers
Startups, Incubators & Investors
Venture Capital & Private Equity Firms
How
Showcasing over 200 companies
Attracting over 3000 participants from 50 countries
Significance
Elevates and stimulates innovations in biotechnology
Fosters global collaborations and partnerships
Showcases latest advancements in life sciences
Challenges
Managing a diverse and international attendance
Ensuring impactful discussions and outcomes
Way Forward
Leveraging data and AI for future healthcare innovations
Strengthening global connections and collaborations in life sciences

The BioAsia Summit 2024, set in Hyderabad, India, from February 26 to 28, marks its 21st edition under the theme “Data and AI: Redefining Possibilities.” This event is a pivotal gathering in the life sciences and healthcare sectors, showcasing innovative advancements and fostering international collaborations. Organized by the Government of Telangana and in partnership with EY, it promises to bring together over 3000 delegates from 50 countries, including a distinguished lineup of speakers such as David Ricks, Christopher Boerner, Geoff Martha, and Nobel Laureate Gregg Semenza, among others. The summit features a comprehensive program including conferences, expert sessions, and an international trade show, aimed at discussing and exploring the role of data-driven technologies and AI in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. This event stands as a testament to the global stature of BioAsia, highlighting its role in stimulating industry growth, facilitating knowledge sharing, and promoting wellness and health innovations globally​​​​​​​​​​.

/ Africa
Mauritius to amend India-Mauritius DTAA mind map
Recent News
Mauritius Cabinet decided to amend
To comply with BEPS minimum standards
Part of global tax agreement
When
Protocol signed recently
No specific date mentioned
Why
Tighten anti-abuse provisions
Curb treaty abuse, revenue loss
Prevent double non-taxation
Streamline investment flow
What
Source-based taxation
Capital Gains
Interest
India to tax Mauritius investments
First time since 1983
Starting next year
Where
Applies to investments from Mauritius to India
Who
India and Mauritius governments
Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) involved
How
Amendment of tax treaty
Compliance with BEPS rules
Significance
Discourages source-based tax evasion
Encourages transparent financial flows
Challenges
Potential reduction in FDI from Mauritius
From $15.72 billion (2016-17) to $6.13 billion (2022-23)
Way Forward
Implementation of amended provisions
Monitoring and enforcement

The amendment of the India-Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) aims to address long-standing issues such as treaty abuse and round-tripping of funds, which have impacted fiscal fairness and transparency between the two nations. By incorporating provisions for source-based taxation of capital gains and interest, the amendment signifies a major shift in how investments from Mauritius into India will be taxed, aligning with global standards to combat tax evasion and enhance tax compliance. This move is expected to have significant implications for the flow of foreign direct investment (FDI) from Mauritius to India, ensuring that such flows are transparent and aligned with international tax norms.

/ Fundamental Rights
Hate Speech Events in India Report mind map
Recent News
255 incidents in first half of 2023
Targeting Muslims
Documented by Hindutva Watch
When
First half of 2023
Why
Anti-Muslim sentiment
Propagation of conspiracy theories
Political climate
Elections
What
Methodology
Tracking social media
Data scraping
In-depth research
Verification processes
Categories of hate speech
Organization Involved
BJP-Ruled State
Conspiracy Theories
Love Jihad
Land Jihad
Economic Jihad
Halal Jihad
Mazar Jihad
Thook Jihad
Population Jihad
UPSC Jihad
Where
Maharashtra
29% of incidents
Karnataka
Madhya Pradesh
Rajasthan
Gujarat
Who
BJP and affiliated organizations
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP)
Bajrang Dal
Sakal Hindu Samaj
India Hate Lab (IHL)
Documentation and analysis
How
Social media tracking
Data scraping
In-depth journalistic research
Verification of videos
Significance
Unveiling patterns of hate speech
Highlighting role of political climate
Challenges
Underreporting
Lack of footage
Unverifiable incidents
Way Forward
Strengthening documentation
Enhancing verification methods
Addressing political incentives for hate speech

This mindmap outlines the findings and methodology of the “Hate Speech Events in India” report, focusing on the targeted anti-Muslim hate speech documented in the first half of 2023. The report, compiled by Hindutva Watch in collaboration with India Hate Lab, utilized social media tracking, data scraping, and journalistic research to verify over 255 incidents. The majority of these incidents occurred in BJP-ruled states, with significant concentrations in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. The report categorizes the hate speech events by the organizations involved, including those affiliated with the BJP and the broader Sangh Parivar, and identifies the spread of various conspiracy theories as a common theme. The report emphasizes the role of the political climate and upcoming elections in exacerbating the situation, noting a deliberate effort to disseminate anti-Muslim sentiments in states with fragile electoral support​​​​​​​​​​.

/ Railways
Amrit Bharat Station Scheme mind map
Launched by
Ministry of Railways
When
February 2023
Why
To upgrade and modernize railway stations across India
What
Redefining Station's architectural landscape
Elegant Station Building
Focus on Swachh Bharat
Modular Sewage Treatment Plant
Aesthetic Platforms
Resurfacing
Landscaping on platform walls
Passenger Amenities
Better seating, drinking water, lighting, and ventilation
Enhanced Connectivity
Revamped foot over bridge, lift, and escalator facilities
Guidance and Information
Modernized train indication boards, passenger-friendly signages
Functional Upgrades
Booking office and administrative buildings renovation
Inclusivity
Divyangjan (specially-abled) friendly designs
Continuous basis development with a long term vision
Master Plans preparation and implementation in phases
Improvement of station access, circulating areas, waiting halls, toilets
Cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, kiosks for local products through 'One Station One Product'
Better passenger information systems, Executive Lounges, nominated spaces for business meetings
Landscaping, multimodal integration, amenities for Divyangjans
Sustainable and environment-friendly solutions
Provision of ballastless tracks, 'Roof Plazas'
Creation of city centres at the station in the long term
Where
Nationwide - 1309 railway stations identified for redevelopment
Specific states and stations mentioned
Chattisgarh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra
East Coast, Northern Railway, North Central Railway, North Eastern Railway, Northeast Frontier Railway, Southern Railway
Who
Ministry of Railways, Government of India
PM Narendra Modi - played a significant role in the scheme's launch
How
Preparation of Master Plans
Implementation in phases based on footfall and inputs from stakeholders
Zonal railways responsible for station selection, approved by a committee of senior officials
Low-cost redevelopment model for timely execution
Significance
Enhances passenger experience
Modernizes and upgrades railway infrastructure
Integrates stations with urban landscapes
Promotes cleanliness and inclusivity
Challenges
Managing large-scale redevelopment across diverse regions
Balancing modernization with heritage conservation
Ensuring timely completion within budget constraints
Way Forward
Continuous evaluation and adaptation of redevelopment plans
Engagement with local communities and stakeholders for input and support
Leveraging technology for efficient project management and passenger services

The “Amrit Bharat Station Scheme” is an ambitious initiative by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, launched in February 2023, aiming to transform 1309 railway stations across the country. It seeks to upgrade these stations into world-class hubs, focusing on modernizing infrastructure, improving passenger amenities, and enhancing connectivity. The scheme emphasizes the integration of sustainable and environment-friendly solutions, inclusivity for the specially-abled, and the beautification of station premises. This comprehensive redevelopment effort is poised to revolutionize the way passengers experience railway travel in India, making stations not just transit points but also vibrant city centers​​​​​​​​​​​​.

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