India is set to strengthen global climate monitoring efforts with the proposed G20 satellite mission, expected to launch in 2027. This satellite will support environmental monitoring, weather forecasting, and disaster management for G20 nations.
About the G20 Satellite Mission
Proposed by Indian Space Research Organisation
Expected Launch Year: 2027
Designed for global cooperation among G20 countries
Focus on climate, environment, and disaster management
Scientists from the CSIRβNational Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) have developed a βdesigner riceβ with enhanced nutritional value. This innovation aims to tackle malnutrition, anaemia, and diabetes through advanced food processing techniques.
What is Designer Rice?
Designer rice is a scientifically engineered food product created using food architecture and extrusion technology. Unlike conventional rice (rich in starch), it is modified to provide better nutrition and controlled glucose release.
Key Features of Designer Rice
High Protein Content
Contains 20β22% protein
Nearly 3 times higher than regular rice (6β8%)
Helps in improving nutritional intake, especially in protein-deficient populations
Low Glycaemic Index (GI)
GI value: Below 55 (β54)
Ensures slow release of glucose
Beneficial for managing Type 2 Diabetes
Micronutrient Fortification
Enriched with essential nutrients:
Iron β Prevents anaemia
Folic Acid β Important for cell growth
Vitamin B12 β Supports nerve function and blood formation
Non-GMO Technology
Developed using food processing techniques
Does not involve genetic modification (GMO)
Uses extrusion technology to reshape nutritional composition
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India has taken a major step toward technological self-reliance by approving its first semiconductor fabrication (fab) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Dholera, Gujarat.
Key Highlights
First Semiconductor SEZ
Located in Dholera, Gujarat
Officially notified on April 16, 2026
Project Lead
Spearheaded by Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing Private Limited
Strategic Importance
Boosts Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat
Reduces dependence on imported chips
What is a Special Economic Zone (SEZ)?
Definition
A geographically defined area treated as foreign territory for trade and tariffs
Offers tax benefits and duty-free imports
Legal Framework
Governed by:
Special Economic Zones Act
SEZ Rules, 2006
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India has reached a significant milestone in its nuclear energy programme as the first indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, has achieved criticality. This marks a major step towards energy security and efficient utilization of nuclear fuel resources.
What is βCriticalityβ?
It indicates that the reactor is operational and ready for controlled power generation.
Criticality refers to the stage when a nuclear reactor sustains a self-sustaining chain reaction.
About Indiaβs PFBR at Kalpakkam
Location: Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu
Capacity: 500 MWe
Type: Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR)
Developed by: BHAVINI (Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited
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The Government of India is actively promoting scientific awareness among students through initiatives like Yuva Vigyani Karyakram (YUVIKA). Highlighted by the Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, the programme plays a crucial role in inspiring school students to pursue careers in space science and STEM fields.
What is YUVIKA?
Yuva Vigyani Karyakram (YUVIKA), also known as the Young Scientist Programme, is an educational initiative launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Key Purpose
To provide early exposure to space science and technology
To encourage students to take up careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
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India has launched the Antariksh Venture Capital Fund (AVCF) to strengthen its growing spacetech ecosystem. This is the countryβs first dedicated venture capital fund for the space sector, aimed at supporting startups
What is Antariksh Venture Capital Fund (AVCF)?
The Antariksh Venture Capital Fund (AVCF) is a specialized investment fund created to provide:
Risk capital to spacetech startups
Support for early-stage and growth-stage companies
Funding for innovation in space technology and applications
Key Features of AVCF
1. Total Corpus
Target fund size: βΉ1,600 crore
Initial committed amount: βΉ1,005 crore (as of November 2025)
2. Anchor Investor
Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe)
Committed βΉ1,000 crore
Acts as the primary institutional supporter
3. Fund Management
Managed by SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL)
SVCL is a subsidiary of:
Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
Institutional Background
IN-SPACe
A regulatory and promotional body under the Department of Space
Facilitates private sector participation in space activities
SIDBI
Apex financial institution for MSME financing
Supports entrepreneurship and innovation
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From April 1, 2026, the Government of India has implemented a major fuel reform by mandating the nationwide sale of E20 petrol (20% ethanol-blended fuel) with a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95.
What is E20 Petrol?
E20 petrol is a blended fuel consisting of:
80% conventional petrol
20% ethanol (biofuel)
Key Features
Ethanol Source:
Derived from agricultural products like:
Sugarcane
Maize (corn)
Other food grains
Renewable Fuel:
Ethanol is a renewable and eco-friendly energy source
Nationwide Implementation:
Applicable across all States and Union Territories from April 2026
What is Research Octane Number (RON 95)?
Definition:
RON measures a fuelβs ability to resist engine knocking (premature combustion)
RON 95 Explained:
Indicates higher fuel stability
Performs better under high pressure and temperature
Previous Standard:
Earlier petrol standard was RON 91
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India has launched Mission MITRA to evaluate astronaut-designates (Gaganyatris) for Indiaβs first human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. The mission focuses on testing physical, psychological, and teamwork capabilities in extreme high-altitude conditions.
What is Mission MITRA?
Full Form: Mapping of Interoperable Traits and Response Assessment (MITRA)
Conducted by: ISRO
Purpose: To assess astronautsβ ability to function effectively under extreme conditions
Key Features
Four astronaut-designates involved:
Shubhanshu Shukla
Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair
Ajit Krishnan
Angad Pratap
Testing Location: High-altitude regions of Ladakh
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