Tuvalu
Tuvalu, one of the world’s smallest and most remote nations, has introduced its first-ever ATMs, marking a significant milestone in its financial modernization.
- A Polynesian island nation in the Pacific Ocean, located between Hawaii and Australia.
- Consists of several coral atolls.
- Due to its low elevation, Tuvalu is at high risk of submersion from rising sea levels.
- Australia signed the Falepili Union Agreement, allowing Tuvalu citizens climate refuge due to rising sea levels
International Lunar Research Station
China and Russia are planning to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon to power their joint International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).
- A joint initiative by China and Russia, aiming to establish a scientific research base on the Moon.
- Purpose – The station will conduct lunar exploration, resource utilization, and long-term autonomous operations.
- Planned in three phases—Reconnaissance (2021–2025), Construction (2026–2035), and Utilization (from 2036).
- Several countries, including Pakistan, UAE, and Kazakhstan, have joined the ILRS project
Sunrise Sectors
Union Finance Minister stated that India aims to double the share of manufacturing in GDP with the help of sunrise sectors
- Rapidly growing industries with high potential for economic expansion and innovation.
- Examples in India: Key sunrise sectors include Electric Vehicles (EVs), Renewable Energy, Artificial Intelligence, and Semiconductor Manufacturing.
- Government Initiatives: India promotes sunrise sectors through PLI schemes, National Green Hydrogen Mission, and Semiconductor Fabs Program.
Digital Arrest
UNODC Report highlights expansion of Organized Crime Groups beyond East and Southeast Asia
- A cybercrime tactic where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money from victims.
- Modus Operandi: Scammers use video calls, fake legal notices, and threats of prosecution to manipulate victims into paying ransom.
- India has blocked over 1,000 fraudulent Skype IDs used for digital arrest scams.
- Preventive Measures: Cyber hygiene practices like two-factor authentication, avoiding phishing links, and using secure communication channels help prevent digital arrests
Green Crypto Mining
Bhutan, a Himalayan nation, is exploring ways to mine and use green cryptocurrencies with hydropower to boost its economy and create jobs.
- Uses renewable energy sources (solar, hydro, wind) to reduce carbon emissions from cryptocurrency mining.
- Traditional crypto mining relies on fossil fuels, contributing to high energy consumption and carbon emissions