India has reached a significant milestone in its journey towards self-reliance in aerospace technology with the successful establishment and testing of its first Hypervelocity Expansion Tunnel Test Facility by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK). This achievement places India among a select group of nations possessing advanced hypersonic testing capabilities. The facility, named S2, was developed with the support of the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and boasts the capability of simulating hypersonic conditions with flight speeds ranging from 3 to 10 km/s. It comprises essential components such as the free piston driver, compression tube, shock/acceleration tube, and a test section equipped with high vacuum systems. Funded by the DST-FIST program, the facility's instrumentation includes pressure sensors and associated equipment for data acquisition and processing. This development is expected to accelerate hypersonic research in India, providing valuable data for optimizing existing aerospace vehicles and informing future defense and space missions. Additionally, it enhances India's global positioning in advanced experimental hypersonic research and significantly boosts its capacity in the space and defense sectors, aligning with the nation's vision of becoming scientifically advanced.

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary emerges as a crucial habitat for vulture species amidst concerns over their declining populations. A recent tri-State synchronised vulture survey across protected areas in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu highlighted promising results. With 51 vultures spotted in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, including rare sightings of Himalayan griffons, the sanctuary stands out as a significant conservation area. The survey also revealed improvements in vulture sightings compared to previous years, indicating positive trends in their population within the sanctuary.

The Healthy Indian Project (THIP), a leading health information platform in India, has recently been admitted as a member of the World Health Organization's Vaccine Safety Net (VSN). This development emphasizes THIP's commitment to providing credible and verified vaccine safety information to the Indian populace. With this integration, THIP aims to further enhance its role as a reliable source of health information, contributing to global efforts in disseminating accurate immunization details. Sudipta Sengupta, THIP's Founder and CEO, expressed pride in this achievement, highlighting the platform's dedication to public health. VSN, comprising 110 websites from 45 countries, serves as a vital global network, offering vaccine safety information in 43 languages. THIP's inclusion in VSN signifies recognition of its efforts to promote public health and ensure access to verified health information in India.

Australian researchers, led by Monash University, have made a groundbreaking discovery in the treatment of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. Published in Nature Communications, the study unveils a novel approach to reprogramming defective cells in lupus patients using protective molecules from healthy individuals. By restoring the function of regulatory T cells (T-regs), crucial in preventing autoimmune diseases like lupus, the treatment aims to offer effective long-term solutions. This discovery not only holds promise for revolutionizing lupus management but also opens avenues for treating other autoimmune conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. With clinical trials expected to commence in 2026, this research marks a significant step towards finding a cure for lupus and improving the lives of millions affected by autoimmune diseases.

The Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary in Tripura has recently received a new batch of animals through an exchange program with the North Bengal Zoo. This batch includes two Royal Bengal tigers, two leopards, four golden pigeons, a silver pigeon, two peafowls, and four hill mynas. A total of 18 animals arrived in Tripura, while 12 animals from Sepahijala will be sent to North Bengal. As part of the exchange initiative, animals from North Bengal will undergo a one-month quarantine before being available for public viewing. Additionally, the sanctuary will be closed for two days for the safety of both incoming and outgoing animals during the loading and unloading process. This exchange program not only enriches biodiversity but also underscores the commitment to conservation efforts and collaboration between wildlife sanctuaries.

Global experts convened in Kathmandu, Nepal, under the auspices of The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), issued an urgent call for action to prevent the collapse of biodiversity in High Mountain Asia (HMA). Emphasizing the critical state of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, the experts highlighted the escalating loss of nature and habitat as "catastrophic." With the HKH region facing severe threats due to biodiversity decline, the meeting aimed to explore the interconnections between food and water security, health, biodiversity, and climate change. Recognizing the region's significance as the source of major rivers and home to a large population, the experts underscored the need for immediate investment and policy reforms to reverse nature loss and ensure ecosystem sustainability in HMA. This urgent call reflects the growing recognition of the pivotal role that HMA plays in global biodiversity and underscores the need for collaborative action to safeguard its ecological integrity.

The reintroduction of Aldabra giant tortoises to Madagascar represents a significant conservation effort aimed at restoring the island's ecosystems and preventing forest fires. Originating from the Seychelles, these megaherbivores have been successfully reintroduced to the Anjajavy Reserve since 2018, with encouraging signs of reproduction. The project, led by ecologists and conservation biologists, focuses on nurturing hatchlings in controlled environments before releasing them into the wild to ensure their survival. Beyond ecological benefits such as habitat restoration and forest regeneration, the initiative holds promises for biodiversity enhancement and community resilience against climate change impacts.

Cameroon, renowned for its rich biodiversity, is making strides to address the historical exploitation of its biological resources by foreign entities. By adopting the Nagoya Protocol, an international agreement focused on fair benefit sharing from genetic resources and traditional knowledge, Cameroon aims to ensure that local communities benefit equitably. This move comes as Cameroon faces challenges such as inadequate institutional capacity and research on biodiversity. Initiatives like the Global Environment Facility-funded project support the country's efforts to implement the Nagoya Protocol and conduct bioprospecting activities. Local stakeholders, optimistic about the potential economic gains, are hopeful for a future where the exploitation of Cameroon's biological resources aligns with international standards, unlocking the country's economic potential.

In a recent statement to the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, highlighted the conservation efforts and population assessments of the Black-necked Crane in India. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have actively conducted surveys, revealing an estimated population of 66-69 individuals in Ladakh and approximately 11 individuals in Arunachal Pradesh during winter months. The Black-necked Crane, listed in Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and international conventions like CITES and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species, receives legal protection. Key habitats, including the Changthang Sanctuary in Ladakh and the Tso Kar Wetlands Complex designated as a Ramsar Site, play a crucial role in the species' conservation. The National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031) outlines specific chapters and priority actions, and the government supports wildlife habitat management through the 'Development of Wildlife Habitats' scheme. Additionally, the Ministry has issued guidelines for the management planning of Protected Areas. The government's Mission LiFE program aims to raise public awareness about environmental conservation, further emphasized through the celebration of important days such as World Wildlife Day, Wetlands Day, Migratory Bird Day, and Wildlife Week.

The inaugural Education Working Group (EdWG) meeting under the Brazilian G20 Presidency unfolded virtually, with the Indian delegation reaffirming the government's dedication to advancing the global education agenda. Emphasizing the need for capacity building among educational professionals and promoting innovative teaching-learning methods, the delegation spotlighted the role of technology in creating inclusive and collaborative learning experiences. The discussions also underscored the pivotal role of education in achieving Sustainable Development Goals, particularly through initiatives like LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). The Indian delegation shared the nation's best practices aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, featuring initiatives such as SWAYAM, SWAYAM PRABHA, Academic Bank of Credit, and more. The meeting set the stage for further deliberations on valuing education professionals, connecting digital resource platforms, and recognizing excellence in school-community engagement in the subsequent sessions. The dialogue is slated to continue on the second day, centering on digital resource platforms and the G20 Award for School-Community Engagement on February 6, 2024.

In the past two months, the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand has witnessed a disturbing trend with five reported fatalities due to encounters with big cats. The surge in fatal incidents is attributed to the high density of tigers in the region, emphasizing the challenges of managing habitats in the reserve. Recent incidents include attacks by a tigress in December, prompting concerns about aberrant behavior. The reserve, boasting the highest tiger population in the country, has become a hotspot for human-wildlife conflict, presenting a constant challenge for authorities. As India's overall tiger population increases, the Corbett Tiger Reserve's struggle is exacerbated by the loss of wildlife corridors, intensifying the need for effective habitat management and conflict resolution strategies.

In a remarkable discovery, the elusive Dusted Apollo butterfly (Parnassius stenosemus) has been sighted and photographed for the first time in Himachal Pradesh. Forest guards Gajinder Verma and Abinash Thakur made the groundbreaking discovery during a September 2023 trek to Manimahesh Lake in Chamba. This rare high-altitude butterfly, with a distribution range from Ladakh to West Nepal, was originally identified in 1890. Butterfly expert Lovish Garlani highlighted the distinctive features of Dusted Apollo compared to Ladakh Banded Apollo and emphasized the urgency of conservation efforts. The sighting of another protected species, the Regal Apollo, adds to the significance, calling attention to the need for immediate measures to protect and conserve the diverse Apollo butterfly species in the region.

In a bid to unravel the mysteries surrounding the critically endangered Forest Owlet, the Melghat Tiger Reserve is organizing a captivating Wildlife Odyssey. The expedition, set in the heart of the reserve, aims to provide nature enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to explore the lush forests and gain insights into the elusive bird's habitat, behavior, and conservation status. Led by knowledgeable naturalists, participants can expect a guided tour showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Melghat Tiger Reserve. This initiative not only contributes valuable data to global conservation efforts but also fosters increased awareness and fundraising for the preservation of the delicate ecosystem and the endangered Forest Owlet.

In a landmark legal pronouncement, the Supreme Court has unequivocally emphasized the inviolability of valid legal provisions. The court's ruling firmly states that provisions, deemed perfectly valid, should not undergo a 'read down' interpretation solely to mitigate their harsh consequences. This significant development underscores the court's commitment to preserving the integrity of legal provisions and maintaining their original impact and intent without dilution. The decision signals a robust stance on the unaltered application of legislation, marking a noteworthy chapter in the legal landscape.

In the captivating landscapes of Peru, a dedicated group of scientists, beekeepers, and environmental activists has launched a comprehensive conservation mission to protect the stingless bee species from the imminent threat of extinction. Facing challenges like habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change, the stingless bees play a crucial role in pollination, affecting both the delicate ecosystems of Peru and vital agricultural practices. The multi-faceted conservation approach involves habitat restoration, education programs, and sustainable beekeeping practices, with an emphasis on community engagement. As the mission gains momentum, it aims not only to preserve the stingless bee population but also to raise global awareness about the broader pollinator crisis, advocating for collective action to address environmental threats and safeguard pollinators worldwide.

In the year 2022, India experienced a distressing surge in cancer cases, according to a report from The Global Cancer Observatory, a division of the World Health Organisation (WHO). The data revealed over 14 lakh cancer diagnoses and more than nine lakh deaths, shedding light on the significant impact of this disease on the nation. Breast cancer emerged as the leading cause, contributing to 1.92 lakh cases and claiming 98,337 lives. Lip and oral cavity cancer followed closely, ranking second with 1.43 lakh cases and 79,979 deaths. Cervical cancer secured the third spot with 1.27 lakh cases and 79,906 deaths. The statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and interventions to address and mitigate the growing cancer burden in India.

In the ongoing Financial Year 2023-24, the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has made significant strides in combatting fraudulent Input Tax Credit (ITC) cases. With a focus on identifying and apprehending masterminds behind fake ITC operations, DGGI has detected 1,700 cases involving Rs. 18,000 crore. The agency's proactive approach, involving data analytics and advanced technical tools, has led to the apprehension of 98 fraudsters. The cases span from well-organized rackets operating in Sirsa, Haryana, to individuals creating and selling fake firms in Jaipur, Rajasthan, underscoring the DGGI's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the GST system. The arrests, seizures of evidence, and potential evasion amounts collectively emphasize the Directorate's vigilance in ensuring compliance and curbing tax evasion.

In the recent interim budget presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed a significant agricultural initiative – the widespread expansion of Nano DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) application across diverse crops in all agro-climatic zones. Nano DAP, a liquid fertilizer with a particle size below 100 nanometers, offers enhanced efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and convenience for farmers. The move not only addresses the country's fertilizer needs but also aligns with the government's goal of reducing import dependency, fostering self-sufficiency in fertilizer production, and providing substantial relief to the subsidy burden. This strategic step is poised to propel Indian agriculture forward, ensuring increased productivity and sustainability.

A recent study led by researchers from the Technical University of Munich sheds light on the alarming future spread of wheat blast, a fungal disease posing a severe threat to global wheat production. The findings suggest that the disease could lead to a significant 13% reduction in global wheat production by 2050, raising concerns about food security. The study identifies South America, southern Africa, and Asia as the regions most vulnerable to the impact of wheat blast, with up to 75% of wheat cultivation areas in Africa and South America at risk. The research emphasizes the need for proactive measures, including the adoption of resistant wheat varieties and climate-resilient crops, to mitigate the potential consequences of this emerging agricultural challenge.

The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) joined forces with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in a Strategic Meeting held on February 2, 2024, in Gurugram. The focus of the meeting was on crucial aspects of business expansion and initiatives aimed at cost reduction in fund utilization. IREDA's Strategy Team presented comprehensive initiatives, including Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and IT-based enhancements to improve efficiency and user experience. Discussions covered financial stability measures, retail sector growth strategies, and a thorough review of bond-raising strategies. Inaugurating the meeting, IREDA's Chairman and Managing Director, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, expressed confidence in the organization's progress, emphasizing its commitment to shaping a sustainable and dynamic renewable energy landscape in alignment with the Government of India's vision. The meeting concluded with a firm commitment from IREDA to continue promoting renewable energy and sustainable development.

The Khelo India Winter Games 2024 commenced in Ladakh, marking its debut as a host for the prestigious event. The Nawang Dorjay Stobdan Stadium witnessed a vibrant inaugural ceremony attended by 15 states and two public institutions participating in ice hockey and ice-skating events over five days. The Chief Guest, Brig. (Dr) B.D. Mishra (Retd), Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, graced the occasion. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in a special message, emphasized the unifying spirit of Khelo India and the global potential of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as premier winter sports destinations. The event also saw the establishment of the Khelo India Centre of Excellence in Ladakh, focusing on athletics, archery, and boxing. The inaugural day featured traditional performances, an exhibition ice-hockey match, and the awarding of the first medals in short track skating. The Winter Games, a part of the Khelo India Mission, aim to promote Olympic sports and cultivate talent for national sporting excellence.

The Credit Enhancement Guarantee Scheme for Scheduled Castes (CEGSSC) was initiated in the 2014-15 Union Budget under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India. With an initial corpus of Rs. 200 crores, the scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes by providing credit enhancement guarantees to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs). IFCI Ltd, the Nodal Agency, facilitates the implementation of the scheme. Entities, including individuals and registered companies, can avail benefits for various financial facilities, and eligible entities can secure loans ranging from Rs.15 lakhs to over Rs.5 crores.

The Indian judiciary's language dynamics, as outlined in constitutional provisions and legislative acts, have evolved to address linguistic diversity. Constitutional Article 348(1)(a) mandates English in Supreme Court and High Courts proceedings, but Article 348(2) allows the use of Hindi or official state languages with gubernatorial and presidential consent. The Official Language Act, 1963, further empowers Governors to authorize Hindi or state languages in addition to English for judgments. A 1965 Cabinet Committee decision emphasizes Chief Justice consent for language proposals in High Courts.

In the last three years, the Indian Navy has reported seven incidents of vessel hijackings on high seas by pirates. Among these incidents, the hijacking of the Merchant Vessel - Lila Norfolk on January 04-05, 2024, stands out with 21 crew members onboard, including 15 Indian nationals. The Navy has actively engaged with regional and extra-regional navies to promote maritime security, deploying units in the Gulf of Aden and the East Coast of Africa since 2008. Notably, there have been no piracy incidents reported in the Palk Strait. The Indian Navy continues its efforts to restore maritime security through enhanced presence, aerial surveillance, and collaboration with national and international maritime security agencies. This information was presented by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt in response to a query in the Lok Sabha.

The 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela was inaugurated by the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, on February 2, 2024. In her address, the President highlighted the Mela as a unique celebration of cultural diversity and a platform that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. She emphasized its dual role as both an art exhibition and a business center, connecting skilled craftsmen with passionate art enthusiasts. The President commended artisans for their crucial role in preserving India's rich artistic heritage, recognizing Gujarat as the partner state and the North-Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation as the cultural partner for this edition. Moreover, Tanzania's participation as the partner nation underscored the Mela's global significance, providing a showcase for Tanzanian culture while highlighting India's engagement with the African Union.

Dr Yumnam Sapha, an Assistant Professor of Fine Arts at Manipur University, is on a passionate mission to safeguard the ancient Subika painting style, an integral part of Manipuri cultural history found in archaic manuscripts known as Puyas. With a focus on manuscripts like Subika Laishaba, which serves as a visual continuation of the Meitei cultural tradition, Dr Sapha aims to revive awareness about this unique art form that is facing near-extinction due to neglect. His journey, from childhood exposure to various art forms to collaborations resulting in published works featuring Subika-style paintings, underscores his commitment to preserving Manipuri heritage and providing a platform for its appreciation at national and international levels.

In a significant move for environmental conservation, the Tamil Nadu government has officially declared 80,114.80 hectares of reserve forests in Bargur Hills, Erode district, as the Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The announcement, initially made in the 2023 State Budget, designates this region as the 18th wildlife sanctuary in the state. Connecting the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve with the Cauvery South Wildlife Sanctuary, the Bargur Hills play a pivotal role in maintaining biodiversity, serving as a crucial corridor for tigers and hosting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Beyond its ecological importance, the area holds cultural and historical significance for local communities, making the sanctuary a vital hub for both conservation and cultural heritage.

In a groundbreaking archaeological revelation, photojournalist D Ravinder Reddy and rock art expert Dr Muralidhar Reddy have unearthed Mesolithic era rock paintings at Sitamma Loddi, Gattusingaram, in Peddapalli district. The paintings, adorning the walls of a massive sandstone rock shelter spanning 1,000 feet in length and 50 feet in height, belong to both the Mesolithic (10,000-12,000 years ago) and early historic (1st BCE to 6th CE) periods. This site, comprising seven shelters and recognized as the second-longest in India, provides unique insights into ancient cultures through depictions of human figures engaged in group dances, animals, and distinctive handprints. Notably, a fossilized stone embedded with a shell places the site at an astonishing 65 million years old, further solidifying its status as a diamond mine of rock paintings in Telangana.

In a remarkable and unexpected event, nearly 1,000 manatees, also known as sea cows, have congregated at Blue Spring State Park in Florida, breaking previous records. The gathering, reported earlier this week, has puzzled researchers, with possible explanations including weather-related migration, sensitivity to cold temperatures, and the impact of algae blooms on their food source. Blue Spring State Park, known for its warm waters and protection from recreational activities during winter, seems to serve as a safe haven for these gentle sea mammals. The unique gathering raises questions about the complex interactions between manatees and their environment, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in safeguarding their well-being.

The MY Bharat portal, launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on October 31, 2023, has achieved a historic milestone with over 1.45 crore registrations as of January 31, 2024. This success is attributed to the platform's user-friendly interface, enabling swift registrations within minutes. MY Bharat, envisioned as a technology-driven facilitator for youth development, combines physical activities with digital connectivity, making it a 'Phygital Platform.' The portal has become instrumental in mobilizing the nation's youth for constructive and transformative endeavors, as demonstrated on National Youth Day when over 1 lakh volunteers collaborated with traffic police for enhanced road safety. Prime Minister Modi, acknowledging the overwhelming response, emphasized MY Bharat as the largest platform for the twenty-first-century youth of Bharat. Looking ahead, MY Bharat aims to introduce new features and initiatives, expand its offerings in emerging sectors, and deepen engagement with educational institutions and youth organizations, with the ultimate vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

In a landmark announcement during the presentation of the Interim Budget 2024-25, Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, outlined strategic measures to bolster the Fisheries and Dairy sectors. The budget includes plans for the establishment of five integrated aquaparks, showcasing the government's commitment to supporting the fishing community. The Minister highlighted the success of past initiatives, such as the dedicated Department for Fisheries, leading to a remarkable doubling of both inland and aquaculture production. The budget also emphasized the growth in seafood exports since 2013-14.

In a significant move, the Indian Navy has designated the year 2024 as the 'Year of Naval Civilians' with a primary objective to address various aspects of Civilian HR Management. Recognizing the pivotal role played by Naval Civilian Personnel, who constitute around one-third of the Navy's workforce, the initiative aims to enhance administration, efficiency, and the overall well-being of these essential contributors. The focus areas for the year include maximizing administrative efficiency, implementing digital initiatives, conducting training programs, and organizing welfare activities. This dedicated effort reflects a renewed commitment to ensuring that Naval Civilians contribute effectively, reinforcing the Indian Navy's status as a combat-ready, credible, cohesive, and future-proof force.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 48th Raising Day on February 1, 2024, in New Delhi, reflecting on its remarkable journey from a modest beginning in 1977 to a formidable force in maritime security. Boasting 152 ships and 78 aircraft, the ICG is on track to achieve its targeted force levels by 2030. Under the motto "Vayam Rakshamah" (We Protect), the ICG has been instrumental in saving over 11,554 lives, positioning itself as a renowned global Coast Guard. The celebration highlighted the ICG's pivotal role in maintaining a 24x7 vigil in the Maritime Zones of India, contributing significantly to the nation's goals in the blue economy and maritime transportation. The ICG showcased its prowess in Maritime Law Enforcement, indigenous initiatives, modernization efforts, and commitment to environmental stewardship. With a digital transformation underway and continued support from the government, the ICG remains committed to advancing the nation's interests in the Maritime Zones.

In a significant development, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the signing and ratification of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The primary objectives of this treaty include enhancing investor confidence, attracting more foreign investments, and creating opportunities for Overseas Direct Investment (ODI). Anticipated to positively impact employment generation, the approval aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The treaty is expected to encourage domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the nation.

Members of the little-known Hindutva group, Rashtriya Anhad Mahayog Peeth, forcibly entered the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected Martand Sun Temple in southern Kashmir's Anantnag. This incident took place on 22nd January, coinciding with the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Despite attempts by local ASI staff to prevent their entry, the group performed prayers within the eighth-century temple's protected ruins. The group's leader, Maharaj Rudranath Mahakal, justified the action by citing Prime Minister Modi's call for prayers in all temples. This marks the third consecutive year of the group attempting prayers in the historic temple complex, raising concerns about the clash between religious practices and the ASI's preservation guidelines.