mAadhaar App
Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology introduces new Aadhar app.
- Official mobile application by UIDAI, enabling access to Aadhaar services like downloading Aadhaar and generating Virtual IDs (VID).
- Allows users to update Aadhaar details, link Aadhaar with bank accounts, and save profiles of up to 5 family members.
- Features include biometric locking/unlocking, QR code generation, and time-based OTP for authentication.
- Requires a registered mobile number for secure access and authentication.
Shadow Fleet
US has imposed sanctions on UAE-based Indian associated firms for their alleged involvement in facilitating Iran’s oil trade through the use of a shadow fleet.
- Refers to tanker ships that obscure ownership and cargo origin to bypass international sanctions
- Operates using Flags of Convenience (FoC), frequently changing flags, names, and ownership to evade detection.
- Common FoC countries include Panama, Liberia, and Marshall Islands, offering lenient regulations.
- Raises concerns over global maritime security and enforcement of sanctions
Kavach
Union Minister for Railways announced that Kavach 5.0 will be implemented to upgrade Mumbai’s suburban train travel.
- Indigenous Automatic Train Protection system developed by Indian Railways to prevent collisions and overspeeding.
- Uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices installed in locomotives, tracks, and signaling systems.
- Automatically applies brakes if a train passes a danger signal or exceeds speed limits.
- Cost-effective system under Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, planned for deployment across 2,000 km of rail network
Lichens
A Study has revealed that certain lichen species can survive and remain metabolically active under simulated Mars-like conditions.
- Symbiotic association between algae and fungi
- Serve as bioindicators of air pollution and contribute to ecological balance.
- Used in medicine, dye production, etc
- Found on tree bark, rocks, and soil crusts, thriving in diverse habitats
- India’s 1st Lichen Park was established in Uttarakhand.
Pink Moon
On April 12, “Pink moon” was observed in the night sky.
- Refers to April’s full moon, named after the blooming moss phlox wildflower in North America.
- This particular full moon is also termed as “micromoon” because it appears slightly smaller than usual.
- This is due to the moon being at apogee, the farthest point in its orbit from Earth.