UPSC Prelims Facts - 31 May 2024 - Gokulam Seek IAS Academy

Table of Contents

Microcephaly

As per recent studies, SASS6 (SAS-6 Centriolar Assembly Protein) gene’s may be responsible for causing microcephaly.

Condition in which a baby’s head is much smaller than normal.
Causes – Genetic factors, viral infection such as Zika etc
SASS6 – Protein Coding gene.
A central component of centrioles (paired barrel-shaped organelles located in the cytoplasm of animal cell).

India assumed the Chair of Colombo Process for 2024-26, for the first time since its inception in 2003.

Regional Consultative Process that provides platform for consultations on the management of overseas employment and contractual labour.
Comprises of 12 Member States of Asia such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka etc.
India is one of the founding members.
UN’s International Organization for Migration provides technical and administrative support to the Colombo Process.

Japan researchers have built the world’s first wooden satellite named Lignosat.

Tiny cuboid craft and it will be sent into space by SpaceX rocket.
Collaboration between – NASA and JAXA
Aim – To combat space clutter and promote more environmentally friendly space activity.
Material – Magnolia wood, due to its strength and resilience.
Benefits – Unlike traditional satellites (built with aluminium) Lignosat will burn harmlessly and eliminates the risk of instruments detaching and becoming debris

RudraM-II missile was successfully flight-tested from Su-30 MK-I.

Indigenously developed solid-propelled air-launched missile, designed for air-to-surface operations.
Developed by – Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
RudraM – New-generation anti-radiation missiles (NGARMs)
- 1^st indigenous ARM of Indian Air Force

The National Green Tribunal tells Karnataka govt to curb illegal sand mining in Sharavathi river.