5G Intelligent Village
Department of Telecommunication has invited calls for proposals on 5G Intelligent Village and Quantum Encryption Algorithm
- Aim – To address critical pillars such as agriculture, education, healthcare, governance, and sustainability.
- Responds to the pressing need for equitable technological advancement by harnessing the transformative power of 5G technology to uplift rural communities.
- Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA) – Aims to develop India specific QEA that will represent a cuttingedge approach to securing digital communication channels by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics.
Bitumen
India plans large-scale bio-bitumen production from biomass and agricultural waste.
- A black substance produced through distillation of crude oil.
- India currently imports about half of its annual requirement of bitumen.
- Also known as – Asphalt.
- Known for its adhesive properties.
- Applications – Paving roads, water proofing etc.
- Bio-bitumen – A form of bitumen manufactured from organic elements.
Mercury Island
A documentary film on conservation of the Mercury Island was premiered in 18th Mumbai International Film Festival.
- A small rocky island (in Atlantic Ocean) off the diamond coast of Namibia.
- Recognised as Important Bird Areas (IBAs) by Bird Life International.
- One of 3 important coastal seabird-breeding islands along the Coast.
Ultrasound Technology
Scientists have successfully mapped brain activity using Functional Ultrasound Imaging (fUSI).
- Uses high-frequency (above 20 kHz) sound waves to view body’s internal organs.
- Does not use any radiation, making it a safe and effective tool.
- Working – Based on Piezoelectric effect (specific materials produce an electric charge proportional to applied mechanical stress)
- Applications – Ultrasound imaging in diagnostic medicine, Ultrasound in underwater acoustics (Sonar), Non-destructive testing of various materials, Welding and Cleaning.
- fUSI – An emerging technique that offers sensitive, large-scale, high-resolution neural imaging.
Direct Seeding of Rice
Punjab Government is actively promoting DSR technique.
- Also known as – Tar Wattar Technique
- A modern rice cultivation technique where rice seeds are directly sown into the field, as opposed to traditional method of growing seedlings in a nursery, then transplanting into flooded fields.
- Significance – Effective in controlling stubble burning and also helps in reducing Methane emission.
- Challenges – Weed management, Higher seed requirement, nonuniform crop establishment etc