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).
Colombo Process
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.
Lignosat
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
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)
- 1st indigenous ARM of Indian Air Force
Sharavathi River
The National Green Tribunal tells Karnataka govt to curb illegal sand mining in Sharavathi river.
- West flowing river which drains into the Arabian Sea.
- Origin – Western Ghats, Karnataka.
- Water Falls – Jog falls (one of the highest plunge waterfall)
- Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Power Station is built on it.