Mangar Bani
Archeologists’ unearthed pre-historic tools from the Lower Paleolithic age in Mangar Bani
- Paleolithic site
- A sacred grove located in the Aravalli Hills, Haryana, known for its dense vegetation and biodiversity.
- Cultural Significance – Associated with Guru Mangar, a revered saint, making it a site of religious importance.
Igla S
Indian Army received new Russian Igla-S missiles to counter drones, choppers, jets.
- A VSHORAD (Very Short-Range Air Defence) system, forming the last line of defense against aerial threats
- Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS): Developed by Russia, used for short-range air defense.
- Target Capabilities: Can neutralize low-flying aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
- Operational Range: Effective between 500 meters to 6 kilometers, with a missile speed of 400 meters per second.
Agriphotovoltaics
Recently, it has been highlighted that Agriphotovoltaics (APVs) provide a model that maximises land-use efficiency and augments farmers’ income.
- Help in reducing carbon footprint while ensuring sustainable farming practices.
- Dual-Use Technology: Integrates solar panels with agricultural land, allowing crop cultivation and energy generation simultaneously.
- Benefits: Improves land efficiency, reduces water evaporation, and provides shade for crops, enhancing yield.
- Global Adoption: Countries like Germany, Japan, and India are investing in agriphotovoltaic projects.
- Indian Initiatives: Promoted under PM-KUSUM Scheme, encouraging solar energy adoption in agriculture.
HawkEye 360 Technology
US has recently approved sale of HawkEye 360 technology to India to boost the country’s surveillance capabilities.
- A private satellite network specializing in RF signal geolocation.
- Satellite-Based RF Mapping: Uses small satellites to track radio frequency (RF) signals, aiding in geospatial intelligence.
- Defense & Security Applications: Helps in maritime surveillance, border security, and detecting illegal activities.
- Commercial Use: Supports telecommunications, disaster response, and environmental monitoring.
- India’s Interest: Potential use in defense intelligence and strategic monitoring.
DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate)
Recent study identified a link between exposure to Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) and heart disease deaths.
- A plasticizer used in PVC products, medical devices, and packaging materials.
- Health Concerns: Linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and carcinogenic effects.
- Regulatory Actions: Restricted in EU, USA, and India due to health risks.
- Environmental Impact: Causes water and soil contamination, affecting marine and terrestrial ecosystems.