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Science and Technology

India hosted third World Congress on Agro-forestry 2014
February 19, 2014
The third World Congress on Agro-forestry 2014 (WCA14) held in New Delhi, India
and was inaugurated by President Mr. Pranab Mukherjee. This was the First ever
World Agro-forestry Congress in Asia Pacific Region.
Theme: Trees for Life: Accelerating the Impact of Agro-forestry.
Co-host: the World Agro-forestry Centre, the Indian Council of Agricultural
Research, the Indian Society of Agro-forestry and Global Initiatives.
Objective: To boost awareness, engagement and investments in agro-forestry,
Benefit: Would shape the next steps in the field of integrative science,
transformative change in landscapes, tree improvement, innovative tree-based
value chains, and debates on global and local sustainability, reform of land and
tree tenure and holistic education.
The third edition of World Agroforestry Congress organized to-
Expand global awareness and understanding of agro-forestry.
Share the current status of knowledge and practice of agro-forestry and
consolidate its research base.
Build support for agro-forestry within governments, companies, academia, NGOs
and the media.
Increase the engagement of the private sector.
About World Agroforestry Centre (or ICRAF i.e International Centre For
Research On Agriculture And Forestry)
Mission: To generate science-based knowledge about the diverse roles that trees
play in agricultural landscapes, and to use its research to advance policies and
practices, and their implementation, that benefit the poor and the environment.
To improve food security, nutrition, income, health, shelter, social cohesion,
energy resources and environmental sustainability of rural area in developing
countries.
Objective: poverty alleviation which requires enhanced food security and health,
improved productivity with lower environmental and social costs, and resilience
in the face of climate change and other external shocks.
Headquarters:Nairobi, Kenya.
Regional offices: Cameroon, India, Indonesia, Kenya and Peru.
Role of Agro-forestry: (a) produces food, fuel and fibre, (b) major source of
livelihoods and also help in preventing deforestation and (c) protect water
resources and fighting off soil-erosion.
Note: First two World Congresses on Agro-forestry held in :Florida,USA (2004)
and Nairobi, Kenya (2009).
Chinese scientists developed flexible fire resistant paper
February 19, 2014
Chinese scientists invented a new kind of fire resistant paper. The paper is first of its
own kind and can be use for long time purpose to save the important documents.
About fire resistant paper
Will not catch fire even at 1000 degrees Celsius
Formed by calcium phosphate compound.

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This inorganic paper is flexible and incombustible, but still feels like ordinary
paper. It can be torn, folded, and destroyed by strong acid.
Useful for important documents to preserve for long periods of time.
Note: The research was published in ChemistryA European Journal.
Acenture study: India ranked 8th in demand for digital governance
February 16, 2014
As per new comparative study by Accenture, India ranked eighth in the list of ten
countries in terms of digital governance. Singapore topped the list, followed by
Norway and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
As indicated in the report, high-performing digital governments are focusing on their
digital strategy, continuing long-term investment in key information and
communication technology (ICT) assets and leveraging the power of new technologies
viz. social media, mobility, analytics, big data, cloud computing, etc. These countries
are also connected across agency boundaries and have a strong culture of collaboration
and data sharing.
Countries where survey conducted by Acenture: Brazil, Germany, India,
Norway, Singapore, South Korea, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the
United Kingdom and the United States. (Gave a cumulative score from one to
10).
Parameters that are taken into account to measure the countries digital
governance: Citizen Service Delivery Experience, Citizen Satisfaction and
Service Maturity.
Citizens perception of digital government in the survey: 81% would like
their government to provide more services through digital channels and 64%-
would like to use social media to engage with government.
Note: Digital governance means to offer online portals to access public services to
employing digital channels and social media to communicate and engage with citizens.
Digital Holographic Microscopy technique: First ever 3D film of a living sperm
developed
February 16, 2014
The track of a single sperm cell with a bent tail, in two dimensions (left) and three
dimensions (right). Credit: Biomedical Optics Express.
Scientists have developed the first 3-D movie of living sperm that can help doctors to
select most viable sperm to improve odds during In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
The 3-D imaging technique also known as Digital Holographic Microscopy (DHM),
gives morphology and motility data on sperm consistent with that found in previous
studies, but with the unprecedented bonus of seeing cause and effect relationships
between the two.
About the first 3-D movie of living sperm
Provides detailed 3D imaging of the sperms form and structure to detect
potential infertility-causing anomalies, such as the bent tail that prevents the
cells from swimming straight.
Generates a progressive series of holograms, scientists can watch sperm move
and look for structural anomalies that make them less viable.
Helpful for doctors: To sort the good sperm cells from the less viable ones,
using a tracking system, that takes 3-D movies of living sperm and to show the
sperms movement and behavior in real time.

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First technique for collecting data on sperm cell motility a key predictor of IVF
success in three dimensions and over time.
At present, sperm concentration and mobility in semen are assessed either by subjective
visual evaluation or a process known as Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA).
How the researchers developed the First ever 3D film of a living sperm?
Researchers first separated laser light into two beams. They transmitted one beam
through a dish containing live, swimming sperm cells and then recombined it, after
magnification through a microscope, with the second beam.
The superimposed beams generate an interference pattern that we can record on
camera.
The resulting image is a hologram containing information relative to the
morphologies of the sperm and their positioning in three-dimensional space.
Viewing a progressive series of these holograms in a real-time video, we can
observe how the sperm move and determine if that movement is affected by any
abnormalities in their shape and structure.
In other words, researchers combined microscopy and holography the creation of
3-D images - to visualize live sperm in not only two dimensions (the x and y positions)
but also their depth (z position) as well.
Note: In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process by which an egg is fertilized by sperm
outside the body. It is a major treatment for infertility when other methods of assisted
reproductive technology have failed.
Moto G: Launched by Motorola in India through Flipkart
February 16, 2014
The US-based firm, Motorola launched its much-awaited budget phone Moto G in
India through Flipkart. The Moto Gs 16GB version, priced at Rs 13,999 and 8 GB
version priced at Rs. 12,499. The smartphone has a 1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm
Snapdragon 400, Adreno 305 GPU, a 4.5-inch capacitive (1280 x 720 pixels) touch
screen, and an edge-to-edge display.
About Moto G
Dual SIM Android smartphone developed and manufactured by Motorola
Mobility.
Memory: 1 GB RAM and no card slot.
Storage : 8 GB or 16 GB.
Body: Dimensions -129.9 x 65.9 x 11.6 mm and Weight-143 gm.
Features: Bluetooth, WiFi and GPS connectivity options.
Offers: Excellent call quality and signal reception and we did not encounter
issues while making calls even in areas where cell signal is relatively weaker.
The phone is able to lock to GPS without any hiccups.
Backed by a 2070 mAh battery and will last a complete day even if we put the
screen brightness at the highest level and use 3G data all the time.
Can play video games continuously for 7 to 8 hours.
Camera: The phone has a 5MP rear camera and a 1.3MP front facing camera.
The rear camera can capture 720p video and also comes with an LED flash for
taking pictures in low-light conditions.
Software: Android 4.3 Jelly Bean. Soon, upgradable to Android 4.4 KitKat
software.

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The Android 4.4 KitKat update is expected to bring some minor cosmetic
improvements viz. white notification icons, a transparent notification bar, a new Phone
dialer app, some camera improvements in addition to other changes under the hood.
SMSS J031300.36-670839.3: Oldest known star in the Universe discovered
February 16, 2014
The astronomers led by Dr Stefan Keller of the Australian National University
(ANU) have discovered the oldest known star, SMSS J031300.36-670839.3, in the
Universe, which formed shortly after the Big Bang 13.6 billion years ago.
Modern cosmological science stated that our universe came into existence as a
result of a Big Bang event about 13.7 billion years ago. Our Sun is approximately
4.57 billion years old.
The new star beats the previous longevity record of 13.2 billion years set by a
star dubbed HD 140283 surveyed by American astronomers.
The ANU SkyMapper telescope at the Sliding Spring Observatory has
discovered the oldest known star in the Universe.
About SMSS J031300.36-670839.3 star
SMSS stands for SkyMapper Southern Sky Survey, the 031300 refers to the
right ascension of the star on the sky and the 670839.3 refers to the declination.
Second-generation star due to the low level of iron in the upper limit.
Composition: Mass 60 times bigger than our Sun and is relatively close to us,
about 6,000 light years from the Earth.
Age: Approximately 13.6 billion years.
Discovery indicates that the supernovae of first generation stars may not have
been as powerful as previously thought.
Showed the signs of pollution with lighter elements viz. carbon, magnesium, etc,
with no traces of iron. This indicates the primordial stars supernova
explosion was of surprisingly low energy. (Previously, primordial stars were
thought to have died in violent explosions which polluted space with iron).
In other words, the extremely low iron content of J (to give it a more
manageable pseudonym) indicates that the explosion that formed it was relatively
low energy.
Though, sufficient to disintegrate the primordial star, almost all of the heavy
elements such as iron, were consumed by a black hole that formed at the heart of
the explosion.
The discovery is the first step in understanding ancient stars that formed after the
Big Bang. Astronomers can measure the stars composition as well as iron
pollution due to supernovae.
Benefit of the discovery: For the first time, astronomers can study the chemistry of the
first stars and can give a clearer idea of what the Universe was like in its infancy.
About Big Bang Theory
The Big Bang is the scientific theory that is most consistent with observations of the
past and present states of the universe, and it is widely accepted within the scientific
community. It offers a comprehensive explanation for a broad range of observed
phenomena, including the abundance of light elements, the cosmic microwave
background, large scale structure, and the Hubble diagram.
Note: First generation stars are predominantly tens or hundreds of times more massive
than the Sun. They live fast, die young and have not survived to the present day.

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Though, the second generation stars, a little smaller than the Sun, have massive lifespan
of over 13 billion years.
DRDO developing UAVs to track down Maoists
February 15, 2014
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is developing
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to
track down maoists in naxal hit states viz. Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, etc. And would
demonstrate the operational capability of the first such vehicle, Nishant in Jagdalpur.
The UAVs being developed for CRPF would be able to help the forces trace and
track down the ultra Left operatives in even thick forests.
The Nishant, a multi-mission UAV developed by Indias Aeronautical Development
Establishment (ADE), a branch of DRDO, had already been inducted by the army.
(Nishant consists of an air vehicle supported by ground control station
equipment mounted on Tatra vehicles and it can be moved to any location
for launching whenever required making it very versatile).
About Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
Means: Aerial vehicles which operate without a human pilot.
Eaves are commonly used in both the military and police forces in
situations where the risk of sending a human piloted aircraft is
unacceptable, or the situation makes using a manned aircraft Impractical.
Uses: To get aerial video of a remote location, especially where there would be
unacceptable risk to the pilot of a manned aircraft and
can be equipped with high resolution still, video, and even infrared cameras.
The information obtained by the UAV can be streamed back to the control centre
in real time.
Used to carry and deliver a variety of payloads. Helicopter type UAVs are well
suited to this purpose, because payloads can be suspended from the bottom of the
airframe, with little aerodynamic penalty.
RBI released draft Report on Enabling PKI in Payment System Applications
February 12, 2014
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released draft report on enabling Public Key
Infrastructure (PKI) in payment system applications. Public Key Infrastructure
enabled electronic payment systems that has been introduced by the RBI are RTGS,
NEFT, CBLO, FOREX Clearing, Government Securities Clearing and Cheque
Truncation System (CTS).
Objective: To ensure a safe, secure, efficient, robust and sound payment system in the
country.
Highlights of the draft Report on Enabling Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) in
Payment System Applications
The various PKI-enabled electronic payments systems introduced by RBI viz.
RTGS, NEFT, CBLO, Forex Clearing, Government Securities Clearing, and
Cheque Truncation System (CTS), etc.
In volume terms, PKI-enabled electronic payments systems contributed 25.1%
whereas these systems contributed 93.7% share to the total number of payment
transactions carried out in the year 2012-13.
Non-PKI enabled payment systems contributed 75% in volume terms but only
6.3 % in value terms in the year 2012-13.

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Of the non-PKI enabled payment systems, MICR Clearing and non-MICR
clearing contributed 37% and 10% in volume terms and 69% and 25% in value
terms.
In order to ensure a safe, secure payment system in the country and to ensure
legal compliance, digital technology, such as PKI may be used.
The banks may carry out in phases PKI implementation for authentication and
transaction verification. (Payment systems are subjected to various financial
risks, viz. credit risk, liquidity risk, systemic risk, operational risk, legal risk).
The issuing bank will need to convert the older credit or debit cards with the
magstrip into EMV chip and pin enabled ones.
With reference to internet banking applications, the report recommends that
customers should be informed of risks, existing security measures and also
given a choice of different methods of authentication to be able to select a system
that matches their security requirements.
All Banks Internet banking applications should mandatory create
authentication environment for password-based two-factor authentication as well
as PKI-based system for authentication and transaction verification in online
banking transaction.
The validity period for the certificates may be increased from 3 to 5 years for the
digital signature certificate (DSCs).
RBI has kept suggestions in the report open for public comment till February 28, 2014.
Note: The Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a set of hardware and software that
enables users of internet to securely and privately exchange data and money by using a
pair of public and private cryptographic passwords.
DRDO developing UAVs to track down Maoists
February 12, 2014
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is developing
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to
track down maoists in naxal hit states viz. Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, etc. And would
demonstrate the operational capability of the first such vehicle, Nishant in Jagdalpur.
The UAVs being developed for CRPF would be able to help the forces trace and
track down the ultra Left operatives in even thick forests.
The Nishant, a multi-mission UAV developed by Indias Aeronautical Development
Establishment (ADE), a branch of DRDO, had already been inducted by the army.
(Nishant consists of an air vehicle supported by ground control station
equipment mounted on Tatra vehicles and it can be moved to any location
for launching whenever required making it very versatile).
About Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
Means: Aerial vehicles which operate without a human pilot.
Eaves are commonly used in both the military and police forces in
situations where the risk of sending a human piloted aircraft is
unacceptable, or the situation makes using a manned aircraft Impractical.
Uses: To get aerial video of a remote location, especially where there would be
unacceptable risk to the pilot of a manned aircraft and
can be equipped with high resolution still, video, and even infrared cameras.
The information obtained by the UAV can be streamed back to the control centre
in real time.

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Used to carry and deliver a variety of payloads. Helicopter type UAVs are well
suited to this purpose, because payloads can be suspended from the bottom of the
airframe, with little aerodynamic penalty.
Chip-and-PIN cards
February 9, 2014
With an aim to minimize frauds, RBI has mandated that Banks must adopt Aadhaar as
additional authentication or move to EMV (Euro pay MasterCard Visa) chip and pin
technology to ensure security in card-based payment transactions.
The apex bank made it mandatory for debit card holders to punch in their PIN numbers
every time they use the card. The PIN functions as another layer of security for the
debit card which reduces the chances of fraud. While using it at PoS, merchants will
first swipe the cards at a PIN enabled PoS terminal and punch in the transaction
amount. That will be followed by customers punching their PINs to complete the
transaction.
What are Chip-and-Pin cards?
A chip-and-PIN card is a plastic card of standard size. It has two chips a) An embedded
chip b) A traditional magnetic strip. In order to accomplish a transaction, a customer
has to punch in his/her PIN number. In case the card gets stolen or lost, it is very
difficult to copy the card due to presence of the embedded microchip.
Objective: The overall system of the card designed in order to make it more difficult
for criminals to cash in on credit card fraud.
What information is stored on the chip?
Information is stored on the embedded chip, which is needed for authentication purpose
during a transaction. This information on the embedded chip is of the same nature as
stored in todays magnetic stripe. The chip is safe as there is no personal information
about customers a/c stored on the embedded chip.
Apple India re-launched production of iPhone 4
February 9, 2014
Apple India re-launched the production of iPhone 4 in India, Indonesia and Brazil.
This is the first time that the American technology giant Apple has resumed the
production of a discontinued phone. The company prides itself on pushing the design
and technology envelope with every release and progressively stops the sale of older
models.
Why American technology giant Apple restarted the production of iPhone 4?
Apple Inc. ceased the selling of iPhone 4 in many countries, owing to the launch of the
iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5c. Due to this move, Apple lost the share and growth
slowed in the last quarter in the markets of India, Brazil and Indonesia. Thus, to
resume the growth Apple re-launched the product iPhone 4 in these countries.
The lower cost iPhone will help Apple to recoup market share in these countries.
This combat market leaders Samsungs Grand and S4 Mini. Apples Foxconn
vendor in China has restarted production of the iPhone 4.
Note: The entry level iPhone 5s sells for Rs. 53,500 in India, while the entry level
iPhone 5c is Rs. 41,900. The reintroduced 8GB iPhone 4 retails for Rs. 22,900.




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NACH-ready payments services hub for India, launched by Polaris Financial
Technology
February 9, 2014
Polaris Financial Technology announced the launch of its NACH-ready India
payments solution. With the emergence of NACH, a high rate of adoption is
anticipated to make it imperative for banks to have a strategic roadmap for the adoption
of NACH. This would include product innovation, operational reconstructs and cutting
edge technology adoption.
NACH-ready India Payments solution

Web-based solution to facilitate inter-bank, high volume electronic transactions
that are repetitive and periodic in nature.
Facilitates centralized mandate management, direct debits and bulk payments
processing.
Standard features: cross-border transactions and host-to-host connectivity, etc.
Compliant with major payment systems in the country viz. National Automated
Clearing House (NACH), Next- Generation Real Time Gross Settlement
(NGRTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer System (NEFT).
Capable of achieving Straight Through Processing (STP) rates of over 97%
across high volume and high care payments through business rules driven data
validation and enrichment.
Operational risks can be reduced by around 20%-25% using a configurable
Exceptions Management Framework which offers complete audit and control.
Polaris Financial Technology Ltd.

A Global leader in Financial Technology for Banking, Insurance and other Financial
Services. Founded in 1993.
Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Its iGTB division is the worlds first complete
Global Transaction Banking platform, used by the worlds top transaction banks.
Services offered: financial technology products, legacy modernization services and
consultant of core banking, corporate banking, wealth & asset management and
insurance.
National Automated Clearing House (NACH)

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has implemented NACH for
banks, financial institutions, corporate and government to facilitate inter-bank, high
volume, electronic transactions which are repetitive and periodic in nature.
Web-based solution: A centralized system that will provide a national footprint
and is expected to cover the entire core banking enabled bank branches spread
across the geography of the country irrespective of the location of the bank
branch.
Objective: To provide a single set of rules (operating and business), open
standards and best industry practices for electronic transactions which are
common across all the Participants, Service Providers and Users, etc.
Provides a robust, secure and scalable platform to the participants with both
transaction and file based transaction processing capabilities.

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Facilitates the member banks to design their own products and also addresses
specific needs of the banks & corporates including a refined Mandate
Management System (MMS) and an online Dispute Management System
(DMS) coupled with strong information exchange and customized MIS
capabilities.
Supports Financial Inclusion measures initiated by Government,
Government Agencies and Banks by providing support to Aadhaar based
transactions.
Used for making bulk transactions towards distribution of subsidies, dividends,
interest, salary, pension, etc. and also for bulk transactions towards collection of
payments pertaining to telephone, electricity, water, loans, investments in mutual
funds, insurance premium, etc.

Muthoot Finance launched its first White-Label ATM
February 9, 2014
Indian gold loan company, Muthoot Finance Ltd became the first and only Non-
Banking Finance Company (NBFC) to have obtained license for setting-up WLAs in
India. The Muthoot Group launched its first White-Label ATM at its corporate office in
New Delhi and has plans to invest Rs 300 crore in the next three years. The rollout will
be mainly in tier-3 and tier-4 cities.
Goal: To set-up 9,000 WLAs over three years 1,000 in the first year, 2,000 in
the second year and 6,000 in the third.
Partner of Muthoot Finance to set up WLAs: FIS Payment Solutions Services.
Sponsor Bank for WLAs venture: Federal Bank.
The ATMs will be user-friendly, even to the differently-abled equipped with Bio-
metric thumb & voice-recognition.
The other entities that are offering White label ATMs:
Prizm Payment Services, a unit of Hitachi of Japan set up its first White Label
ATM Money Spot ATM at Chendre village in Alibaug Taluk, Raigad district
of Maharashtra on January, 2014;
Tata Communications Payment Solutions launched the Indias first ever
network of white label ATMs called Indicash in June 2013 at Chandrapada
in Thane district of Maharashtra.
What are White label ATMs?
ATMs set up and run by non-banking entities are called White Label ATMs (WLAs).
Customers from any bank can deposit or withdraw money from such ATMs. They will
provide ATM services to customers of all banks. In June 2012, the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) has permitted non-banking companies to set up ATMs, referred to as
WLAs, to increase the penetration of the facility across the country.
Objective of permitting non-banks to operate WLAs: To enhance the penetration of
the machines in semi-urban and rural areas, where bank-run ATMs are a few or none.
The move is in line to the governments objective of achieving financial inclusion.
Excerpts of the RBIs policy to set up & operate White label ATMs:
Non-bank entities would be permitted to set up WLAs in India, after obtaining
authorisation from RBI under the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act
2007.

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As per the Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007, the non
bank entities should have a minimum net worth of Rs 100 crore & have to
apply to RBI for seeking approval.
Every WLA operator is required to tie up with a sponsor bank, which takes
care of cash operations, dispute resolution and regulatory reporting aspects.
Being non-bank owned ATMs, the guidelines on five free transactions in
a month for using other bank ATMs would not be applicable for transactions
affected on the WLAs.
WLA operators can also earn extra revenue through advertisements and value-
added services. Further, it allows autonomy of operators on deciding locations
and creating their own brand with fixed annual targets mandated by RBI.
White-label ATMs accepts only cards issued by banks and does not accept cash
deposits.
Govt. launched National Cloud Under MeghRaj
February 9, 2014
Govt. launched the National Cloud under MeghRaj initiative. National Information
Centre (NIC) is providing Cloud services under the umbrella of MeghRaj.
About MeghRaj
In order to utilize and harness the benefits of Cloud Computing, the Central
Government has embarked upon an ambitious initiative GI Cloud which has been
named as MeghRaj.
Focus: To accelerate delivery of e-services in the country while optimizing ICT
spending of the Government. This will ensure optimum utilization of the
infrastructure and speed up the development and deployment of eGov
applications.
Architectural vision of GI Cloud: As per the set of common protocols,
guidelines and standards issued by the Government of India, GI cloud will cover
a set of discrete cloud computing environments spread across multiple locations,
built on existing or new (augmented) infrastructure.
Benefit of GI Cloud: Helpful for the departments to procure ICT services on
demand in the OPEX model rather than investing upfront on the CAPEX.
Characteristics of National Cloud: Self service portal, Multiple Cloud
solutions, Secured VPN access and Multi location Cloud.
Existing Cloud services: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service
(PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS) and Storage as a Service (STaaS).
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing and storage capacity. In cloud
computing, end users are not required to buy software or Devices as they are provided
by service providers on a rental basis. Its an Internet based technology which enables
its user to share technological resources, software and digital information from
anywhere using a browser.
Note: The Department of Electronics & Information Technology (DeitY) prepared the
two Policy reports viz., GI Cloud Strategic Direction Paper and GI Cloud
Adoption and Implementation Roadmap.




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Yahoo email account passwords stolen
February 8, 2014
Yahoo Inc. broadcasted that usernames and passwords of its email customers have
stolen and used to gather personal information for those Yahoo mail users who have
recently corresponded with. The company didnt say how many accounts have been
affected.
Danger: access to email accounts could lead to more serious breaches involving
banking and shopping sites. This is because many people reuse passwords across
many sites, and also because many sites use email to reset passwords.
The company believes that the usernames and passwords werent collected from
its own systems, but from a third-party database. Its not clear why a third-party
database would have information on Yahoo accounts.
Yahoo is resetting passwords on affected accounts and has implemented
additional measures to block further attacks.
Note: As per the research firm comScore, Yahoo is the second-largest email service
worldwide, after Googles Gmail. There are 273 million Yahoo mail accounts
worldwide, including 81 million in the US.
101st Indian Science Congress
February 8, 2014
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the 101st Indian Science Congress at
Jammu University, Jammu. The five-day (Feb 3-7, 2014) event will see deliberations
and presentation of papers by the scientific fraternity from across the globe.
Dr. Singh stated that the country must increase its annual expenditure on to at least 2%
of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the private sector must join hands with the
government for an inclusive progress in .
Excerpts of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singhs speech
India will partner with the international scientific community in establishment of
the worlds major R&D projects.
In the Gravitational Wave Experiment, India intends to host the third detector. A
Neutrino-based Observatory is proposed to be established in Tamil Nadu at a cost
of about Rs. 1450 crore.
India would soon join, as an associate member, the European Organization for
Nuclear Research, CERN, where international projects such as the research on
God Particle was going on.
Favored genetically modified crops.
Supported the scientists to engage more with society and explain socially
productive applications of biotechnology and other alternatives.
Announced the names of five eminent scientists, who have been selected for the
recently instituted Jawaharlal Nehru Fellowships.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Fellowship is open to scientists who are either Nobel Laureates
or Fellows of the Royal Society, or members of the United States or French academies
of science. The selected scientists are entitled to a fellowship of $1,00,000 and a
research grant of Rs. 55 lakh. They will have to do research in an institution here for 12
months, which can be spent in installments over 3 years. The host institution would also
get a grant of Rs. 10 lakh for providing laboratory and other facilities for the research.



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Saving Asias Vultures from Extinction (SAVE)
February 5, 2014
The Saving Asias Vultures from Extinction (SAVE) programme declared that it has
plans to release up to 25 birds into a 30,000-sq-km drug-free safe zone. A project
hopes to start releasing captive-bred birds into the wild by 2016, after experiencing the
devastation wrought by a drug on Asian vulture populations.
In order to ensure that the species affected do not disappear completely from the wild,
SAVE identified a number of priorities viz.
To establish a number of vast safe zones for the captive-bred birds to be
released within. The areas have a radius of 100km and the consortium has
identified six such areas some of which cross national borders into Nepal,
Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Establishment of a captive-breeding programme that would provide the birds to
be released back into the wider environment, once it was safe to do so.
Why Asian vulture population is declining?
Diclofenac, a painkilling drug administered to cattle, is the main cause of mass
extinction of vultures.
Vultures, which have a digestive system robust enough to even digest disease-
causing pathogens found in rotting meat of dead, do not have a critical enzyme
that breaks down diclofenac and die of renal failure after eating carcasses of
cattle administered the drug.
Vultures feeding on cattle either die from acute kidney failure within a few days
or lose their ability to reproduce.
In 2006, India banned the use of veterinary drug Diclofenac, which is toxic to any
vulture that feeds on the carcass of recently treated cattle, but SAVE in its study, stated
that the drug continues to be sold and used illegally today.
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has put vultures on its list
of critically endangered species.
The most common species of vultures in South Asia:
Long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus), also known as the Indian vulture.
White-backed vulture (Gyps africanus).
Slender-billed vulture (Gyps tenuirostris).
Red-headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvushave).
Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus).
About SAVE (Saving Asias Vultures from Extinction)
The consortium of like-minded, regional and international organizations, created
to oversee and co-ordinate conservation, campaigning and fundraising activities
to help the plight of south Asias vultures.
Objective: To save three critically important species from extinction through a
single programme.
SAVE partners:Bombay Natural History Society, Bird Conservation Nepal, RSPB
(UK), National Trust for Nature Conservation (Nepal), International Centre for Birds of
Prey (UK) and Zoological Society of London.
Butterfly Bacteria Study revealed certain surprises about Metamorphosis
February 3, 2014
Scientists from the University of Colorado Boulder sequenced the bacteria of the red
postman butterfly to learn more about the insects three major stages of life. The new

Jp Singh Page 13

study that has sequenced internal bacteria makeup of a butterfly has revealed some
surprise discoveries about metamorphosis. It has shown that the internal microbial
make-up of the red postman butterfly changed dramatically from caterpillar to pupa to
adult. This is the first time researchers have ever sequenced the entire microbiome of a
butterfly.
The red postman is a tropical butterfly found commonly in Central and South
America. Scientific name: Heliconius erato.
Objective of study: To help the agriculture industry understands why butterflies
and caterpillars can be damaging to crops.
Why the red postman butterfly chose by scientists to study bacteria?
Typically, butterflies feed on nectar and have very short lifespan. However, the red
postman butterflies can extract nutrients from the pollen and greatly extend its life.
They feed on pollen, known to be rich in amino acids.
As per the study
The red postmans internal bacteria split in half upon transitioning from
caterpillar to chrysalis. Also known as the pupil stage, the internal bacteria then
doubled again when it went from the chrysalis into butterfly adulthood.
In other words, the microbial community simplified and reorganized itself during
the transition from caterpillar to pupa. The diversity double after the adult
butterflies had emerged and began going about their business of feeding.
Butterflies are microbial habitats for bacteria. Butterflies are ecologically and
scientifically important, and their transformation from caterpillar to chrysalis to
winged adult is one of the most remarkable phenomena of the natural world.
Objective of the study: The communities of bacteria inhabiting other insects have been
shown to affect host nutrition, digestion, detoxification and defense from predators,
parasites and pathogens.

Hero MotoCorp unveiled diesel concept motorcycle
February 3, 2014
The two-wheeler maker, Hero MotoCorp unveiled a diesel-electric hybrid scooter
concept, RNT, which is probably the worlds first and smallest diesel engine for two-
wheelers.
The concept unveiled along with four more products Leap (hybrid scooter) and 250 cc
bike HXR250R are completely new products, while Dash (110cc scooter) and Xtreme
Sports (150cc bike) models are based on existing platforms.
Hero Dash is a Maestro-sized scooter has an 111cc 4-stroke 8.4PS/9.4Nm engine.
It has 12-inch tyres and a 6-litre fuel tank. Comes with Heros Integrated
Braking. Drum brakes on both the ends.
Hero Leap is a petrol-hybrid has a 3-litre fuel tank. It weighs in at 140kg and will
be launched by the next fiscal year.
About RNT 150cc diesel motorcycle
Has a hub electric motor on the front wheel, which is powered by an electric
battery pack to give the rider a unique two wheel drive option for off road and
slushy road conditions.
Features: wide, flat-loading surfaces, multi-use folding side racks, spacious
footboards, removable secondary LED headlight and a large, comfortable seat. It
comes with an electric drive at front wheel for off-road conditions.

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The bike boasts of a power take-off shaft which can be used to drive a generator
or water pump.
Rider can also shut off the rear drive and move on electric power front wheel-drive in
towns and cities.
IAMAI: India to have 243 million internet users by June 2014
February 2, 2014
As per the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), the Internet user base in
the country stood at 190 million at the end of June, 2013. For the whole year 2013, the
internet user base grew 42% to 213 million, from 150 million in 2012. Of the total user
base, mobile internet users accounted for 130 million in 2013, a growth of about 92%
from 68 million in 2012.
IAMAI expects the number of mobile internet users to touch 185 million by June 2014,
accounting for about 76% of the internet user base in the country. The growth of
Internet users has also led to a substantial growth of other digital industries such as e-
commerce and digital advertising. The study projects the online advertising market in
India to touch Rs. 2,938 crore by March 2014.
Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI)
Not-for-profit industry body registered under the Societies Act, 1986.
Founded: 2004.
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.
President: Dr. Subho Ray.
Put forward the problems and requirements of the businesses to the consumers,
shareholders, investors and the Government of India.
Purpose: To improve and expand the value added services pertaining to mobiles
and several online services.

Chinese scientists invented Water-jet printer
February 1, 2014
Scientists of the Jilin University, China have invented a printer that uses water to
print, instead of ink. After about 22 hours, the paper fades back to a plain sheet of white
paper, allowing it to be re-used.
The water-jet technology is capable of reprinting numerous times, spares people
their money and saves trees. As per the statistics, many papers (40% of office Prints)
are throwing into the dustbin after the single reading.
What technology applies in the water-jet printer?
In the water-jet printer, the technology work is the paper, which is treated with an
invisible dye that colours upon exposure to water and later disappears. It uses a dye
compound called oxazolidine that gives a clear, blue print in less than one second upon
application of water.
Within a day, the used paper fades back to white which makes it reusable.
At temperature lesser than 35 degree Celsius, the print would fade away in 22
hours, while at higher temperature, it would fade faster. The technology is ideal
for documents that are printed to be read once and then discarded.
At 70 degree Celsius , the colour disappears within about 30 seconds.
At present, there are four water-printed colours - blue, magenta, gold and
purple. Though, they can only print in one hue at a time.

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The technology does not require changing a printer but only replacing the ink in
the cartridge with H
2
0, using a syringe.
A chemistry professor, Mr. Sean Xiao-An Zhang, supervised the work.
The scientists are also working on a machine that will heat pre-printed sheets of paper
as they are fed into the machine, fading the pages instantaneously for re-printing. Their
next step is to improve both the resolution and the duration of the print.
Second Supermoon of 2014 will be visible on Jan 31, 2014
January 31, 2014
The second of the five supermoons of 2014 would be visible on Friday around 3.30
p.m. January 1, 2014 was the years first supermoon and January 31, 2014 will be the
second.
January is the only month with two supermoons until January 2018.
As per Space Foundation, an organisation working for popularizing astronomy, the
second of the five supermoons of 2014 would be visible on Friday. The other
supermoons this year are forecasted to happen on July 12, August 10, and September 9,
2014. The one is August is supposed to be the closet to Earth.
What is a supermoon?
A supermoon is the coincidence of a full moon or a new moon with the closest
approach the Moon makes to the Earth on its elliptical orbit, resulting in the largest
apparent size of the lunar disk as seen from Earth. The technical name is the perigee-
syzygy of the Earth-Moon-Sun system. It appears as much as 14 % bigger and 30 %
brighter.
The term Super Moon was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979.
Before supermoons were called supermoons, they were referred to Perigee Full
Moon, or Perigee New Moon.
What is Perigee-Syzygy?
The term supermoon is not widely accepted or used within the astronomy or
scientific community, who prefer the term Perigee-Syzygy.
Perigee: the point at which the Moon is closest in its orbit to the Earth.
Syzygy: a full or new moon, when the Earth, the Moon and the Sun are aligned
nearly in a straight line.
Supermoon = Perigee + Syzygy, although they do not perfectly coincide each
time.
Thus a Supermoon can be regarded as a combination of the two, although they do not
perfectly coincide each time. Syzygy may occur within a maximum of 12
hours from perigee during a supermoon, and 1 hour from perigee during an
extreme Supermoon.
How does supermoon occur?
A super full moon occurs when the moons closest approach to the Earth (lunar perigee)
coincides with the phase of full moon. When this happens the moon may seem bigger
and brighter. However, for the ordinary star-gazer there will be no significant
difference.
In other words, the Moon which is a natural satellite of the Earth revolves around
it in an elliptical orbit rather than a circular one. While revolving, when it reaches
the perigee (closest point to Earth from its orbit) , the Moon is about 356,992 km
away, as compared to the 405,696 km away that it is at its furthest distance from
the Earth (apogee). This closeness combined with the coincident of a full moon

Jp Singh Page 16

gives it a bigger look from the Earth. Thus, the phenomenon called
Supermoon.
About Full moon
The full moon is a lunar phase occurs when the moon is on the opposite side of the
earth from the sun and all three bodies are aligned in a straight line. It appears as an
entire circle in the sky. In modern use, when 13 full moons occur in a year, usually one
calendar month has 2 full moons; the second one is called a Blue Moon.
Google doodle Daredevil motorcyclists-The Tornadoes celebrates Indias 65th
Republic Day
January 26, 2014
Indias 65th Republic Day celebrated on January 26, 2014 is being marked with a
Google doodle portraying Janbaz (Daredevil) motorcyclists.
The Daredevil motorcyclists representing a unit of the armed forces, are seen carrying
the doodle which has been painted in the colours of the Indian national flag. Unlike
many of Googles previous doodles, this doodle doesnt have any animation. It is
clickable and takes one to information and search results about the Republic Day of
India.
The Tornadoes- Janbaz (Daredevil) motorcyclists - team has many world records to
its credit, the most famous being the Largest Human Pyramid of 251 men on 11
motorcycles, which was established on June 11, 2008 in Jabalpur. The second record
successfully achieved was the fastest human pyramid of ten men on two motorcycles.
Any Time Milk (ATM): Amul launches its first Milk ATM
January 26, 2014
Indias dairy major Amul has launched Indias first milk ATM which will sell milk
through Any Time Milk vending machines. The 247 ATM has been installed at the
Amul Dairy gate at Anand in Gujarat.
The ATM machine can store 150 pouches of milk, each of 300 ml. The milk costs Rs
10 per pouch. The milk pouches are kept in the automatic dispensing machine which
also keeps them chilled under 4
o
C.
This service will help daily workers, street vendors or construction workers who return
from their work late evening or at night. They would be able to get milk at their
convenience since the machine is operational 24 hours.
How does Any Time Milk (ATM) work?
The machine accepts only Rs 10 currency note and after accepting the note one pouch is
dispensed from bottom of the machine. The machine will be operated by such people
who can put milk pouches in the machine, inform dairy if more supply is needed and
also provide Rs 10 note to consumers.

NRI scientist AJ Paulraj wins Tech Nobel- 2014 Marconi Prize
January 25, 2014
The Indian-born scientist and Professor (Emeritus) at StanfordUniversity, Mr.
Arogyaswami Joseph Paulraj (69), won the prestigious Marconi Society Prize 2014
for developing the theory and applications of Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO)
antennas.
His idea for using multiple antennas at both the transmitting and receiving stations,
which is at the heart of the current high speed Wi-Fi and 4G mobile systems, has
revolutionized high speed wireless delivery of multimedia services for billions of

Jp Singh Page 17

people. MIMO boosts data rate by creating multiple parallel spatial data streams and is
the key to the latest wireless broadband networks like 4G cellular.
Every wifi router and 4G phone uses MIMO technology that was pioneered by
Mr. Paulraj.
Mr. Paulraj is the only India-born scientist to receive both the Marconi Prize and
the IEEE Alexander Graham Bell Medal the two top global IT technology
awards.
About Marconi Society Prize
Also known as Tech Nobel
Founded: 1974 by Guglielmo Marconis daughter Gioia Marconi Braga to mark
the centennial of her fathers birth and memorialize his spirit of ingenuity in
service to humanity. (He was the radio inventor).
Headquarters:San FranciscoBayArea, United States.
Prize: $100,000 honorarium and a sculpture and its honorees become Marconi
Fellows.
Annual award
Rrecognizes advancements in communications awarded by the Marconi
Foundation.
Winners typically include scientists whose mathematical theories and inventions
have shaped the Internet and broadband access, public key encryption, Web
search, wired and wireless transmission, multimedia publishing, optical fiber and
satellite communications.
Previous winners: Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Bin, world wide
web (www) designer Tim Berners-Lee, father of internet Vint Cerf, cell phone
inventor Martin Cooper and fibre-optic communications developer Charles Kao,
etc.
The society is celebrating its 50
th
year in 2014.
Note: An electrical engineer, Paul worked for the Indian Navy which then sent him to
IIT Delhi for an M.S program. He is known for pioneering the development of military
sonars (APSOH family). He also served as the founding director for three major labs in
India CAIR (Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ), CDAC (Center for
Development of Advanced Computing) and CRL (Central Research Labs of Bharat
Electronics).
Dexter: A virus in the Indian Online Banking System detected by CERT
January 23, 2014
The Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-India) detected a black private
information stealing virus in the Indian online banking transactions space.
The virus is especially more threatening for the users of credit cards who make
payments at the shopping counters.
The virus named Dexter, black POS, memory dump and grabber can
acquire 7 false names when infecting a system and once it is successful in
breaking the security protocols of a Point of Sale (POS) terminal, it steals
confidential data like card holders name, account number, expiration date, CVV
code and other discretionary information which could lead to financially
compromising and phishing attacks on the card at a later stage.
Recently, RBI has made it mandatory for debit card holders to punch in their PIN
numbers every time they use the card to minimize frauds. The order was passed

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following the spread of Dexter virus of Trojan Family which was detected at the
Point of Sale (POS).
About Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
Formed: 19 January 2004.
Headquarters:New Delhi.
Nodal department under Ministry of Communications and Information
Technology.
Objective: To protect Indian cyberspace and software infrastructure against
destructive and hacking activities.
Issue guidelines, advisories, vulnerability notes and whitepapers regarding to
information security practices, procedures, prevention, response and reporting of
cyber security incidents.
India successfully test fired long range nuke-capable Agni-IV missile
January 23, 2014
India successfully test fired a nuclear-capable Agni-IV strategic missile from the
Wheeler Island off the Odisha coast near Dhamra in Bhadrak district, about 200 km
from state capital Bhubaneswar.
About nuke-capable Agni-IV missile
Type: Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (surface-to-surface missile)
Operational range: 4000 km
Developed and tested by: Defense Research and Development
Organisation(DRDO).
Used by: Indian Army
Indias second longest-range missile.
Light-weight
Two stages of solid propulsion
Payload with re-entry heat shield
What is Net Neutrality? What is the significance of Net Neutrality?
January 22, 2014
Net Neutrality (or Internet neutrality) is the idea that broadband Internet Service
Providers (ISPs), Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Verizon and others, should treat
everything that flows across the Internet equally. If the principle of net neutrality is
adhered to, then:
Whether we are reading the news or browsing photographs on the web, we get
the same internet speed.
All ISPs open all (legal) websites whether they like it or not. They do not slow
down access to Facebook or speed up access to YouTube. They cant charge
extra money from Twitter or Flickr for speeding up connection to these
websites.
In other words, it is the principle that ISPs and governments should treat all data on the
Internet equally, not discriminating or charging differentially by user, content, site,
platform, application, type of attached equipment, and modes of communication.
Benefits of Net neutrality:
Creates a level-playing field for all web services and websites. Whether it is a
blog owned and managed by one person or Facebook which employs thousands
of engineers, all websites have access to the same connection speed.
Freedom of speech.

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It is up to a user to access what he wants on the web.
Why Net Neutrality is in news?
The principle of Net Neutrality was struck down by a US Federal appeals court
on January 14, 2014. However, the court doesnt invalidate the idea of net
neutrality. It only stated that the 2010 FCC rules have no legal basis.
Outcome of the court ruling: Internet Service Providers (ISPs) could slow or
block traffic of competitors and privilege sites of commercial partners.
Note: In 2010, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) came up with a set of new
rules to maintain net neutrality. ISPs did not like that and in 2011 challenge the rules in
court.
Why do some companies not want to follow net neutrality?
The perspective of Powerful ISPs regarding net neutrality is that
They should be allowed to shape and manage the internet traffic the way they
want because that is the future.
Building internet infrastructure is expensive and as more and more people
connect to the web and new services viz. YouTube, Netflix, etc, which consume
lots of bandwidth, come online; they have to shape traffic to maintain quality.
When companies like Google are making huge sums of money from services like
YouTube, which has high bandwidth requirement, they should be allowed to
charge for connecting consumers to these services.
Traffic also needs to be shaped so that some services can get higher priority over
others. ISPs stated that internet speed for essential services like credit card
payment should get priority over opening videos, etc.
They also want a share in the money companies viz. YouTube, Netflix, etc, are
making.
What is the status of net neutrality in India?
Legally, the concept of net neutrality doesnt exist in India. Telecom Regulatory
Authority of India (TRAI) regulates the telecom industry, has tried to come up
with some rules regarding net neutrality several times. No formal rules have been
formed to uphold and enforce net neutrality. Yet, in spite of lack of formal rules,
ISPs in India mostly stick to the principal of net neutrality. There have been some
incidents where Indian ISPs have ignored net neutrality but these are few and far
between.
US scientists re-engineering Tulsi
January 20, 2014
At the Western Kentucky University, an Indian-American scientist Chandrakanth
Emani along with his team is genetically engineering tulsi or basil to raise its
pharmaceutical value.
They have genetically engineered tulsi to produce eugenol, a compound in tulsi that has
a great pharmaceutical value that can control breast cancer. Tulsi is a medicinal plant
and has anti-cancerous metabolites.
About Tulsi or Basil
Common name: Holy Basil, Sacred Basil
Scientific name: Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum.
Family: Lamiceae or the mint plants category.
Chemical constituents: Eugenol, Ursolic acid, Rosmarinic acid, Chlorophyll,
Caryophyllene, Oleanolic acid, etc.

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Nutritional compounds: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, etc.
Every part of this plant is useful and has been used traditionally as an Aurvedic
medicine.
Uses: Cures a fever, protects Heart, alleviate stress, dissolves kidney stones, anti-
cancerous, keeps our skin and hair healthy and glowing, cures respiratory
conditions, etc.
Tulsi can protect from radiation poisoning and can also heal damages from it. It
acts as a vaccine against pox if consumed regularly.
It is anti carcinogenic and it found to be effective in healing nearly all types of cancer
and tumors.
Why birds fly in a V Formation?
January 19, 2014
Scientists have unravelled the mystery behind why so many birds fly in a V
formation.
The birds fly in a V formation to:-
1. Conserve energy
2. Communicate more easily
Birds fly in a characteristic V formation to position themselves in aerodynamically
optimum positions whilst specifically timing the flapping of their wings. Researchers
established that birds flap their wings at just the right time so as maximize an updraft
and minimize a downdraft. The complex mechanisms involved in V formation flight
specify extraordinary consciousness and capability of birds to respond to the wingpath
of close by flock-mates.
Flying in a V formation assists each bird take benefit of good air (upwash)
thrown up by the wings of the flyer in front while nullifying disadvantageous
bad air (downwash).
Birds also flap their wings at just the right time so as maximize an updraft
and minimize a downdraft.
These aerodynamic activities were formerly not considered achievable for birds because
of the complex flight dynamics and sensory feedback that would be necessary to
perform such an accomplishment.
The complicated mechanisms involved in V formation flight indicate extraordinary
consciousness and capability of birds to react to the wingpath of nearby flock-
mates. Birds in V formation seem to have developed intricate phasing strategies to deal
with the dynamic wakes produced by flapping wings.

Why birds flying in V-formation frequently rotate positions?

Even though the V formation benefits all of the birds, the bird in the lead position has
to work the hardest. When this bird tires, it will drop out of the lead position and fall
further back into one of the lines of the V. Another bird from further back will rapidly
move forward to take the leading position and maintain the formation. The two birds
in the furthest trailing positions also tire more rapidly than those in the middle, so
these positions are also rotated frequently to spread the most fatiguing locations
throughout the flock.
This cyclical reshuffle gives all birds the responsibility of being the leader as well as a
chance to benefit in the middle of the formation.

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A second basis that may elucidate why birds fly in a V formation is because this
orientation permits the birds to intercommunicate better. The V formation allows the
birds with good visual contact of each other to keep the flock together. This
communication minimizes the possibility of losing birds along the way as the
formation crosses vast distances during migration.

Why a close formation flight among a group of aircraft is often difficult?
Albeit manned aircraft can also exploit the benefits of formation flight, it is difficult to
do so since we still lag behind nature in the ability of our technology to feel the air
and adapt to it for optimum performance. Close formation flight among a group of
aircraft is often difficult to maintain because of the turbulence created by the lead
aircraft.
Perhaps one day we will be able to develop advanced technologies that make aircraft as
sensitive to their surroundings as the body of a bird is today. We may then be able to
make better use of formation flight to improve the efficiency of flying vehicles.

Do military aircrafts operating in V-formation enjoy the same benefits of reduced
drag as do birds or other benefits as do birds?
Military planes do still operate in V formations, but they are typically spaced too far
apart to enjoy the benefits of reduced drag. These aircraft instead fly in formation
primarily to maintain visibility of all the aircraft in the squadron in the same way
that birds do.

Objective behind conducting the study:
To bring the northern bald ibis back to Europe, as the birds were lost because of
uncontrollable hunting. That is why researchers are making efforts to retrain the birds to
navigate a migration route that is not used by the birds anymore. Researchers proved
this after fitting 14 northern bald ibises with lightweight sensors. The birds were trained
to migrate on a 1,000-km route from Austria to Tuscany by following a micro-light.
The study helped researchers to understand that birds change their positions and
alter the timing of their wing flaps so as to have an aerodynamic advantage.
When birds fly in the V formation, swirls of upward-moving air is generated by
the wings of the bird ahead that helps other birds to take advantage to fly easily
without using any energy.
Many companies are lured by this idea of saving energy by gaining lifts from
other birds to develop Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, or UAVs, that can fly in the
energy-efficient V formation.
The study was published in the journal Nature and was conducted by an international
team led by Steven Portugal of the Royal Veterinary College in London.
Indias first climate change theatre opened at Science City, Kapurthala
January 19, 2014
Indias first climate change theatre opened at Pushpa Gujral Science City in
Kapurthala, Punjab. The 18-metre diameter theatre set up in a dome-shaped building
with seating capacity of 125 persons. It is inaugurated by Rajya Sabha member Naresh
Gujral.
Objective: To provide information on climate changes and global warming to school
and college students and sensitize the audience about the currently debated subject of

Jp Singh Page 22

Climate Change and Global Warming. Visitors will be made aware of and have a better
understanding and appreciation for the latest climate science and the issues surrounding
the human role in climate change.
The multi-screen theatre is synchronized with the objects kept inside the theatre
and as film starts those objects showcases the same happenings which are being
depicted in the film.
A 25 minute special movie on climate change and global warming and its affect
gives a message that how we together can make a difference in preserving the
atmosphere.
It explores what a worst-case future might look like if humans do not take action
on current or impending problems which could threaten civilization.
The movie starts by giving a glimpse of future floods, droughts, earthquakes and other
natural disasters and coming back to the present, the Earth introduces itself and talks to
the audience about current situation and impacts it is experiencing due to global
warming.
British engineer gives a new theory on how pyramids were built
January 16, 2014
As per a new theory, ancient Egyptians built the pyramids by piling up rubble on the
inside and then attaching the large bricks on the outside later. This new theory is
proposed by a British engineer, Peter James (54) at Cintec International in Newport,
South Wales. He spent the past 20 years on studying pyramids. Structural engineer Mr.
James and his team are world leaders in re-establishing ancient sites.
What does the new theory by Peter James on the building of Pyramids say?
Inside the Step pyramid in Egypt, the research team discovered that a massive
tonnage of small stones was being held up only by the trunk of a palm tree
thousands of years old.
James believes that the inside of the pyramids are made of small, easily handled
blocks and that they were built from the inside out not the outside in.
And outer stones fell off because of thermal expansion due to the great
differences in temperature between day and night, ranging from 50C to 3C.
Note: This theory challenged the hundreds of years of accepted belief that the
pyramids were built with giant blocks carried up huge ramps.
PM laid foundation stone for Haryana Nuclear Power Project (Haryana Anu
Vidyut Pariyojna)
January 15, 2014
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh laid the foundation stone for a 2,800 MW nuclear
power plant near Gorakhpur village in the Fatehabad district of Haryana.
The Haryana Nuclear Power (or Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojna) Project
(HNPP) will have four indigenously developed pressurized heavy water reactors
with a capacity of 700 MW each.
The first phase (1,400 MW) of the 2,800-MW HNPP would be completed by
2020-21 at a cost of over Rs. 21,000 crore.
Around 1,500 acre land of villages Gorakhpur, Kajalheri and Badopal of district
Fatehabad has been acquired for the project and Rs 450 crore paid to 847 families
of these villages as compensation.
Trident Group first corporate to pay salaries via Aadhaar Payment Bridge (APB)
January 13, 2014

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Diversified business house Trident Group became the first corporate to use
Aadhaar Payment Bridge (APB) for payment of salaries to its employees. The
facility launched in the presence of Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek
Singh Ahluwalia and Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) Chairman
Nandan Nilekani.
About Aadhaar Payment Bridge (APB)
A system that facilitates seamless transfer of payments to Aadhaar Enabled Bank
Account (AEBA).
Its a payment gateway platform created by National Payments Corporation of
India.
used for the first time on January 1, 2013, when Direct Benefit Transfer was
launched by central government for disbursal of entitlements.
Aadhaar numbers leveraged implementation of several central and state
government programmes, including 28 Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes
for central sector in 121 districts, and DBT for Liquefied Petroleum Gas
(DBTL) in 184 districts.
UIDAI issues Aadhaar to residents i.e. a unique number, used as proof of address
as well as identity by the service provides in public as well as private sector like
banks and telecom companies.
Trident Group, (formerly Abhishek Industries), is a textile manufacturing company
based in Punjab, India. Its into many sectors including chemical, paper, energy,
information technology and textile.
Indias first indigenously developed stratospheric balloon penetrates into
mesosphere
January 13, 2014
For the first time in India, an indigenously developed stratospheric balloon
penetrated into the Mesosphere. It is developed at the Balloon Facility, Tata Institute
of Fundamental Research, Hyderabad under the High Altitude Balloon Development
Project (HAA). Till yet, only balloons from US and Japan have accomplished this
achievement.
About the stratospheric balloon
61,000 cubic meter balloon
Weighs: 31.0 Kg
Manufactured at: Balloon Facility using the indigenously developed ultra-thin
polyethylene film of thickness 3.8 micro meters (in comparison to the finest
human hair i.e. around 17 micro meters in diameter).
The balloon carried a payload of 7.9 kg consists of Single Card Tele-Command
with integrated Electronic Timer, Radio Trans receiver (Data Modem), Air traffic
Control Transponder, Mobile telephony GSM-GPS for last leg tracking, upward
looking video camera and two GPS-sondes for navigation and measurement of
atmospheric parameters like pressure, temperature and humidity with a 4.3 meter
diameter parachute weighing 3 kilograms for the safe recovery of instruments
after the flight.
Launch from the Balloon Facility campus located near Moula-Ali (Maula-Ali is a
suburb of Hyderabad, India located at about 10 km from Secunderabad.)
Objective: To provide an opportunity for our scientists working in the area of
atmospheric dynamics to conduct experiments and collect data up to 50 km.

Jp Singh Page 24

New blood test could be used to predict if a patient will have a heart attack
January 13, 2014
Scientists have developed a new and simple blood test that can be used to predict
whether a patient is about to have a heart attack by testing for Circulating Endothelial
Cells (CECs). They found that the presence of CECs in a persons blood after a heart
attack was something not seen in healthy controls.
As per the researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in
Portland (Oregon, USA), the new test involves measuring gamma prime
fibrinogen a component of the bloods clotting mechanism, to find out whether
a person is prone to an attack or not.
In other words, the gamma-prime fibrinogen test will be used in conjunction
with a cholesterol test to better predict who is likely to suffer a heart attack. Thus,
the doctors can identify people who are at risk and who dont know they are at
risk.
Note: A heart attack is caused by the slow buildup of cholesterol plaque in the arteries,
a process known as atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. When the plaque
builds up too much, it can rupture, causing a sudden blood clot to form over the rupture
site. This can ultimately lead to a heart attack or stroke

RBI chooses CCIL to issue Unique Identity Codes in Financial Transactions
January 11, 2014
The RBI has chosen the Clearing Corporation of India Ltd. (CCIL) to act as a Local
Operating Unit (LOU) for issuing internationally compatible Legal Entity Identifiers
(LEIs) in India.
What is Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)?
The LEI is a 20-character unique identity code assigned to entities which are parties to a
financial transaction. The assigning of LEI is part of Global LEI System (GLEIS)
programme to which India is a party.
What would be the work of CCIL as an LOU?
As an LOU, CCIL will issue unique identifier codes to all eligible and willing legal
entities taking part in financial markets across the world on a non-profit cost recovery
basis. After the recognition of CCIL by the Regulatory Oversight Committee of the
GLEIS, codes issued by it will be accepted globally. Once the infrastructure in this
regard is established, the use of the LEI numbers is expected to be mandated for OTC
derivative transactions and large borrowers (legal entities) in a phased manner. The
functioning of CCIL as an LOU will be under the regulation and supervision of the
RBI. Recently, the RBI had designated CCIL as a critical Financial Market
Infrastructure (FMI) for oversight considering its systemic importance in financial
markets regulated by the Reserve Bank. It was also granted the status of a Qualified
Central Counterparty (QCCP).
What is Global LEI System (GLEIS)?
After the global economic crisis of 2008 jolted the world economy, countries across the
globe felt the absence of a common, accurate and sufficiently comprehensive
identification system for parties undertaking financial transactions. This deficiency led
to the origin of the idea of setting up of a Global LEI System (GLEIS). Regulators
world over recognized the significance of the LEI as a key component of necessary
improvements in financial data systems. Consequently, the G20 at the Cannes Summit

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held in November 2011, endorsed the development and maintenance of a GLEIS and
tasked the Financial Stability Board (FSB) to spearhead the co-ordination of
international regulatory work and to deliver concrete recommendations on the system.
Indias RBI joined ROC of the GLEIS in 2013 and as a member of FSB, the RBI, is
committed to the adoption and implementation best international practices.
FSB has designed the framework for the GLEIS. It is as follows:
A Regulatory Oversight Committee (ROC): Responsible for the governance
of the GLEIS and presently includes members and observers from more than 70
authorities across the globe;
A Central Operating Unit (COU): Key operational arm of the GLEIS
Local Operating Units (LOUs): Primary interface for entities desiring to
register for the LEI system.
How would GLEIS help?
GLEIS will introduce a single global system for uniquely identifying parties to financial
transactions. The system would provide myriad benefits as a valuable building block
to contribute to and support many financial stability objectives, including:
Improved risk management in firms
Better assessment of micro and macro-prudential risks
Facilitation of orderly resolution
Curbing market abuse
Checking financial fraud
Facilitating higher quality and accuracy of financial data.
What is the current status of GLEIS?
At present, the GLEIS is being developed and while many operational issues,
particularly regarding its cross border compatibility are being worked out upon, LOUs
in quite a few countries have already become operational. Considering this, the
identifiers currently assigned by LOUs are referred to as pre-LEIs and LOUs
themselves are called pre-LOUs.
Election Commission cancelled Google tie-up, back with NIC
January 11, 2014
The Election Commission of India (EC) has cancelled tied-up with US-based internet
heavyweight, Google to assist it manage online voter registration and facilitation
services ahead of the Indias General Election 2014.
The decision came after when major political parties and cyber security experts
raised concerns that it could be used for spying.
In a flash, the commission has decided to fall back on its good old partner, the
government-controlled National Informatics Centre (NIC), to facilitate voters
to check their enrolment status online and locate their polling station, etc.
Note: As per Googles proposal to the EC, the internet giant had offered its search
engines to help voters find out their enrolment status online, and locate their respective
polling booths, complete with directions through Google Maps.
Global Warming: Gangotri glacier is shrinking
January 11, 2014
As per report titled, Estimation of retreat rate of Gangotri glacier, the Gangotri
glacier is receding like other glaciers in the Himalayas and its volume and size is
shrinking between Gaumukh and Bhojbasa. The appraisal of retreat measured by using

Jp Singh Page 26

rapid static and kinematics GPS survey. The study is conducted by scientists from G.B.
Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development in Almora.
Excerpts of the report Estimation of retreat rate of Gangotri glacier
The retreat in the past decade was higher than it is in this decade. Still, there is
some disintegration in the upper regions of the glacier which shows that some
tectonic activities are going on in the region. This might be alarming but it is
under study.
From year 2000 onwards, the average rate of retreat of the glacier per year has
about 12 to 13 m..
Global warming is also the one of the factor for glacial retreat.
Recessional moraines and broad glacial terrace- like features provide sufficient
evidence of the shrinking of the glacier in the recent past between Gaumukh and
Bhojbasa.
The River Bhagirathi originates from the glacier retreated more than 1,500m in
the last 70 years.
About Gangotri Glacier
Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
The glacier is one of the largest in the Himalayas with an estimated volume of
over 27 cubic kilometers.
The glaciers originate at about 7100 m above the sea level and are 30.2 km long
and width that varies between 0.5 and 2.5 km.
The River Bhagirathi is one of the main tributaries of the Ganga, originates from
Gangotri glacier.
India joined Cryo Club with successful launch of GSLV-D5; 6th spacefarer to
develop a cryogenic engine
January 11, 2014
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its heavy-duty
rocket Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-D5 (GSLV-D5) from Sriharikota,
Andhra Pradesh and placed communication satellite GSAT-14 into orbit.
GSAT-14 is Indias 23rd geostationary satellites built by ISRO. It has a life span
of 12 years. The 1,982 kg satellite carries six extended C-band and Ku-band
transponders (receivers and transmitters of signals), and two Ka-band becons.
The satellite will be used for telemedicine and tele-education services.
The mission cost India Rs. 365 crore Rs. 220 crore for the rocket and Rs. 145
crore for the satellite.
About ISROs indigenous cryogenic engine GSLV-D5 rocket
Powered by an indigenous cryogenic engine, injected into orbit a
telecommunication satellite, GSAT-14.
It is the first successful flight of the indigenous cryogenic engine.
The GSLV is a three-stage engine rocket. The first stage is fired with solid fuel,
the second with liquid fuel and the third is the cryogenic engine.
A cryogenic engine is more efficient as it provides more thrust for every
kilogram of propellant burnt. Cryogenic fuels are extremely clean as they give
out only water while burning.
A cryogenic engine uses liquid oxygen at -253
o
C and liquid hydrogen at -183

o
C and can develop the thrust needed in the final state of the rocket to put
satellites, weighing two tonnes or more, into a geosynchronous orbit.

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It is essential to master this technology for any space power as launching heavier
satellites requires cryogenic engines even in the lower stages of the rocket.
After this launch, India joined the Cryo Club and became the sixth
spacefarer after US, Russia, the European Space Agency, China and Japan to
develop a cryogenic engine a necessity for interplanetary probes and manned
space missions.
Note: GSAT is a telecommunication satellite which will be used for tele-education,
tele- medicine, village resource centre, disaster management and part of public
broadcasting services

Scientists spot rare Indian Pitta after 60 years
January 11, 2014
Indian Pitta, a bird endemic to the Himalayan foothills and Western Ghats, was
spotted at Aravalli Biodiversity Park near Vasant Kunj in Delhi recently. As per
ornithologists, Indian Pitta, a small and colourful bird which is mainly seen in closed-
canopy forests, was spotted in Delhi after 60 years.
Why sighting of Indian Pitta is special for scientists?
The sighting of Indian Pitta or Navaratna was last reported by ornithologist Usha
Ganguli in her book-A Guide to the Birds of Delhi. But for scientists, the spotting of
the bird in national capital after 60 years is special because it was seen in the mining
pits which they have converted in to moist forests. As an experiment, scientists planted
evergreen species in these despoiled pits of Aravalis which was a wasteland earlier. The
bird discovered the type of atmosphere it needs at this location.
Research: Canine Distemper Virus killing endangered tigers, red pandas and
lions
January 8, 2014
As per researchers at Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly, the
infection caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is killing endangered tigers, red
pandas and lions in the country. The disease has been detected in Dudhwa Tiger
Reserve, Patna Zoo and many areas of West Bengal and Darjeeling.
What is Canine Distemper Virus(CDV)?
Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) is a disease causing virus common in domestic dogs and
ferrets, although it can infect wild animals as well.
How does Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) affects animals?
CDV impacts different systems of the body including nervous and respiratory system in
these animals. It shatters the immunity system and causes various secondary bacterial
infections.
As this disease damages the brain of the animal, it severely affects their decision
making power. Due to this, the animals go beyond their natural habitat and enter human
settlements. It renders them easy prey for poachers.
How does the infection of Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) occur?
Activities of direct contact like licking are the major source of CDV transmission
among tigers, lions and red pandas. Besides this, eating dogs infected with the virus,
drinking water from same source are some other modes of transmission of infection.
Can Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) be checked?
Yes. If all the dogs in the buffer zone of forest are vaccinated, it can stop the spread of
disease.

Jp Singh Page 28

PARAM Yuva II: Indias no.1 and ranked 44th among most power efficient
supercomputer in the world
January 7, 2014
As per Green500 List announced at the Supercomputing Conference (SC 2013) in
Denver, Colorado, in the US, Indias PARAM Yuva II supercomputer built by the
Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), has been ranked no.1 in
India, 9
th
in the Asia Pacific Region and 44th in the world among the most power
efficient computer systems.
Why does Green 500 rank computer systems according to their power efficiency?
Generally, supercomputers eat up a lot of power and produce much heat that requires
sophisticated cooling facilities to ensure proper functioning. This renders the Total
Cost of Ownership (TCO) of operating supercomputer to increase. In a bid to draw
attention towards development of energy efficient supercomputers, Green500 ranks
computer systems in the world according to compute performance per watt, thus
providing a world ranking based on energy efficiency.
Indias power network integrated into one grid with joining of Southern region
January 7, 2014
Indias power network has been integrated into one grid as South India has been linked
with the national electricity grid. This completes the consolidation of the entire
country into one network for distributing electricity to consumers. The integration
was attained through the commissioning of the Raichur-Solapur 765 kilovolt (kV)
single-circuit transmission line by state-owned Power Grid Corp. of India Ltd. With
this, the Indian power system has become one of the largest operating synchronous
grids in the world with about 232 GW (gigawatts) of installed power generation
capacity. India has achieved its ONE NATION-'ONE GRID-'ONE
FREQUENCY objective.
How would linking the southern-region with the national grid help?
There is a problem of power shortage in the southern states of India. Power-starved
states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka were waiting for the line to
be interconnected to enable them to transmit power purchased from surplus states in the
north and eastern regions. As per the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Indias
highest power sector planning body, Puducherry, Karnataka and Kerala had a peak
power shortage of 8.1%, 5.8% and 5.5% respectively in August 2013. However, with
the linking of this region with the national grid this problem can be tackled more
efficiently as the surplus power from East and West grids could be diverted to power-
deficient south. Besides, it will also improve transmission and facilitate better
management of demand, ensuring the stability of the electricity grid.
Where are the major grids in India?
There are five regional grids in the country:
1. 1. Northern
2. 2. Southern
3. 3. Eastern
4. 4. North-eastern
5. 5. Western
One Nation-One Grid-One Frequency:
The Indian Power system for planning and operational purposes is divided into above
mentioned 5 regional grids. The integration of regional grids, and thereby establishment

Jp Singh Page 29

of National Grid, was ideated in early 90s. The integration of regional grids which
started with asynchronous HVDC back-to-back inter-regional links facilitating limited
exchange of regulated power was subsequently advanced to high capacity synchronous
links between the regions.
The early inter-regional links were planned for exchange of operational surpluses
amongst the regions. However, later on when the planning philosophy had graduated
from Regional self-sufficiency to National basis, the Inter-regional links were planned
associated with the generation projects that had beneficiaries across the regional
boundaries.
By the end of XI plan the country has total inter-regional transmission capacity of about
28,000 MW which is likely to boost to about 65000 MW at the end of XII plan.
How would National Grid help?
The National Grid which enables synchronization of all regional grids will help in
optimal utilization of scarce natural resources by transfer of Power from Resource
centric regions to Load centric regions. Besides, this shall pave way for setting up a
vibrant Electricity market facilitating trading of power across regions. One Nation One
Grid shall synchronously connect all the regional grids and there will be one national
frequency.
Furthermore, the integrated national grid will also help towards interconnecting
countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) that
consists of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and the
Maldives. The SAARC grid ideates meeting electricity requirement in the region. India
already has power grid links with Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh, and plans to develop
power transmission links with Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
How did the evolution of National Grid take place?
The chronological sequence of events that took place towards the evolution of National
Grid is as follows:
Grid management on regional basis started in 60s.
Initially, State grids were inter-connected to form regional grid and India was
demarcated into 5 regions namely Northern, Eastern, Western, North Eastern and
Southern region.
In October 1991 North Eastern and Eastern grids were connected.
In March 2003 WR and ER-NER were interconnected .
August 2006 North and East grids were interconnected thereby 4 regional grids
Northern, Eastern, Western and North Eastern grids are synchronously connected
forming central grid operating at one frequency.
On December 31, 2013, Southern Region was connected to Central Grid in
Synchronous mode with the commissioning of 765kV Raichur-Solapur
Transmission line thereby achieving ONE NATION-'ONE GRID-'ONE
FREQUENCY

Moclic software can predict weather
January 6, 2014
Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) designed
the software Monitoring Climate Change (Moclic) by which anyone is able to
determine their community, state or countrys weather activity for the days and months
ahead.

Jp Singh Page 30

Characteristics of Monitoring Climate Change (Moclic) software
It is possible to organize, store and operate geo-referenced data from climate
elements.
Can calculate bio and agro-climatic indicators, such as humidity, aridity, rain
erosion and rainfall concentration.
The new software feeds on data from weather stations of any state or country,
with which what happens in a small ranch regarding temperature, can be known
more accurately. Presently, the software we are using till date uses global
information.
Allows an agronomist to obtain annual rainfall records and relate them to the
crops production figures for explanation of a possible event.
The software is very simple and can be used by decision making characters, as
governors, breeders, physicians, farmers, students or anyone whose repercussions could
have economic politic or social effects.
Assam will follow Chaibagaan time
January 6, 2014
The state of Assam decided to follow the chaibagaan time instead of the Indian
Standard Time (IST). The bagaan time will be helpful to save energy, reduce power
consumption and increase productivity. IST is calculated on the basis of solar time in
Allahabad in the northern-central state of Uttar Pradesh. States located to the west of
this longitude have more daylight hours as compared to those in the east. Assam lies in
the extreme east of the country and borders Bangladesh and Bhutan. This means that
the sun sets as early as 16:31 (4:31 p.m.) IST in November and December.
Clocks in India are 5:30 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), making the
country one of the few territories with a half-hour UTC offset. If the time zone change
is implemented, Assam will be 6:30 hours ahead of UTC.
Note:The chaibagaan time or bagaan time Introduced by British people over 150
years ago, was set one hour ahead of the Indian Standard Time (IST) for tea estates,
collieries and oil industry of Assam. This Baggan time is more suitable for tea
plantations.
Survey by Trend Micro: Bitcoin malware, India among top targets
January 1, 2014
As per a survey conducted by the IT security firm Trend Micro, Bitcoin mining
malware is infecting millions of computers globally and extending the threat of cyber
security risks for users of the cyber currency. Thousands of computers, including in
India, are being infected with malwares related to the virtual currency. Bitcoin mining
is resource-intensive and can slow down the system due to the increased CPU load. The
infected computers will become very slow on system operation, also appears heavy
CPU and power consumption.
Major points related to the survey conducted by the IT security firm Trend Micro
Most of the countries of the Asia Pacific (APAC) region are affected by the
Bitcoin-mining malware. Japan is the most affected country, followed by
Taiwan, Australia and India.
Bitcoin users have become the hot target for cyber criminals as bitcoin
transaction is permanent and has no reversal of charges.

Jp Singh Page 31

About 12,000 personal computers have been globally affected by malwares
(related to bitcoin) which were causing severe slowdown of computer systems
making them virtual assets for the criminals
About Bitcoin
Bitcoin is a virtual currency that is unregulated by any central bank or government,
but still works for purchasing goods and services from retailers willing to accept it. It
can also be traded on an open market that fluctuates much like a stock market. Bitcoin
is a distributed peer-to-peer digital currency that functions without the inter-mediation
of any central authority. Bitcoin is also called a cryptocurrency since it is
decentralized and uses cryptography to prevent double-spending, a significant challenge
inherent to digital currencies.
Scientists discovered Phosphorous in remnants of Supernova
January 1, 2014
Astronomers have, for the first time, discovered phosphorous one of the vital
elements for life in the cosmic remains from a supernova explosion.
It has been found that phosphorus is 100 times more abundant in the leftovers of a
supernova than elsewhere in the galaxy, affirming the hypothesis that massive
exploding stars are the churning factories of the element.
While researches have calculated the abundance of essential life elements like carbon,
nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur in supernovae remains, supernova remnant Cassiopeia A
disclosed the first measurement of the relatively scarce phosphorus. The new
observations of the object were made with a spectrograph positioned on a 5-meter
telescope at Palomar Observatory at the California Institute of Technology.
What are Supernovae and Supernova remnant?
A supernova is a celestial event which happens when massive stars exhaust their
nuclear fuel and explode in a spectacular fashion. Being extremely luminous, they
briefly outshine an entire galaxy, before fading from view over several days.
During a short period of some weeks or months, a supernova can radiate as much
energy as the Sun is expected to emit over its entire life span. Once it fades away, what
remains is an expanding shell of gas and dust called a supernova remnant.
What is the scientific thought on the formation of essential life elements?
As per astronomers, these elements are formed in the stars and are dissipated
throughout our galaxy when the star explodes, and they become part of other stars,
planets and ultimately, humans.
Scientists are of the view that when a star with mass several times the mass of the Sun
runs out of the hydrogen that it combusts to produce energy, the core of the star goes
through a sequence of collapses, synthesising heavier elements with each collapse.

Himachal High court bans on food in plastic packs
December 31, 2013
The Himachal Pradesh High Court banned on the sale of potato chips, wafers and all
junk food items packaged in plastic and non-biodegradable material from January 26,
2014. It directed the government to strictly enforce the ban on non-essential food items.
The ban will not cover plastic drinking water bottles.
The court vacated its stay on a notification issued by the Department of Science,
Technology and Environment on June 26, 2013, to impose a ban on sale, storage, entry,
supply and manufacture of these items in the state.

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As per the court order, the government has to ensure that
From March 31, milk and milk products, edible oils/fats, fruits, vegetables and
meat products will be manufactured, transported, sold, packaged and distributed
as per the Food Safety & Standards (Packaging & Labeling) Regulation, 2011.
No person is permitted to start or continue any food business without obtaining
the required license.
Edible oils/fats are packed in tin containers and not plastic bottles or pouches.
The appointment of a Food Commissioner in four weeks.
All the municipal authorities in the state have to manage the plastic waste by
undertaking Waste audit from beginning of the year.
PNB opens first hi-tech branch of Punjab in Kharar
December 31, 2013
Punjab National Bank (PNB) which is Indias second-largest bank opened its first hi-
tech branch at Kharar, Punjab.
Salient features of the first hi-tech branch
The self-services system of the branch would provide all services to all the
customers from 7am to 11pm daily.
This would be done through automated machines for cash deposit, cheque
deposit, cash withdrawal and passbook updating machine.
To educate and aware the customers about the hi-tech systems and their usage, a
special counter has been established at the bank branch.
In order to ensure foolproof security of its ATMs, the bank has adopted these securities
measure, which are under e-surveillance system.
Guardian Microsoft launched new app for womens safety
December 31, 2013
The technology giant Microsoft launched a new application (app) Guardian with
safety features, exclusively for Windows phone users in India. It builds up this app,
chiefly to protect women from incidents such as Nirbhaya.
About the app Guardian
Uses Microsoft Windows Azure cloud solution and the Bing Maps API and
allow anyone we wish to track our movements. This can be done by switching on
the track me feature.
Users will be able to place a call for help through an SOS alert button and also
connect to security agencies, police and hospitals easily via this app in times of
crisis.
Helps women in distress by alerting their friends, families, as well as it is
available as an integrated solution for Police or security agencies, which can
monitor distress SOS calls and provide help through a portal.
The app allows us to add multiple buddies who will be alerted in emergency
situations. It will let them opt out in case theyre not so willing to take our SOS
call.
The SOS messages will continue to go out even if our phone is destroyed. The
best bit is that the SOS button can also send emails and post to private Facebook
groups. The application is capable of one touch video recording that may be used
as evidence.

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Note: The app developed by a group of Microsoft India employees in India inside the
Microsoft Garage. Microsoft Garage is a global employee innovation initiative that
gives Microsoft employees an outlet to explore ideas in their free time.
Related News:
Mobile makers should install SoS button for women safety: Finance Minister
China offers its Beidou Navigation System free of cost to neighbours
December 30, 2013
In a strategic move, China is ready to offer its neighbouring nations use of its
indigenously developed Beidou Satellite Navigation System (BDS) free of charge.
The offer has generated interest from a number of nations including Pakistan, Sri
Lanka, Bangladesh and Thailand.
As per the Chinese government, the country wants to expand the use of the BDS, which
already has 16 satellites operating for the Asia-Pacific and is being promoted as an
alternative to the US Global Positioning System (GPS). China intends to offer BDS
to nations in the Asia-Pacific region, and particularly in South and Southeast Asia,
where the satellites can provide the highest accuracy.
Countries interested in Beidou Navigation System:
China has already reached agreement with Pakistan and Thailand on use of the Beidou
network. It is in talks with Sri Lanka, for which it has already launched a satellite, and
Bangladesh, over cooperation on satellite use. In early2014, Thailand will become the
first country to set up a satellite station based on Beidou, with both nations signing a $
319 million deal.
What is Beidou Satellite Navigation System (BDS)?
Beidou Satellite Navigation System (BDS) is a Chinese satellite navigation system. It
consists of two separate satellite constellations:
Beidou-1: A limited test system that has been operating since 2000
Beidou-2 : A full-scale global navigation system which is also known as COMPASS
and is currently under construction as of January 2013 . Beidou-2 will have 35 satellites
in its network.
Objective of Beidou Satellite Navigation System (BDS):
Initially, when the BDS was launched in 2011, it was serving only the government and
military. However, over the past year the navigation system is being widely used for
civilian purposes domestically. In China, around 80% of passenger buses and trucks use
the BDS. Now China intends to expand its satellite navigation services to Asia-Pacific
and to South and South-East Asia regions.

Australian school introduces worlds first standing classroom to combat childhood
obesity
December 29, 2013
As part of a novel experiment, Mont Albert Primary School in Australia has launched
the worlds first standing classroom which aims to combat the menace of childhood
obesity. In this experiment being conducted by the researchers of Baker IDI Heart and
Diabetes Institute, a grade six class at this school has been fitted with height-adjustable
desks to allow the student to sit or stand.
The researchers will monitor the standing students with an objective to know if being
upright can improve their health, fitness, learning and memory. Pupils will also be fitted

Jp Singh Page 34

with devices to measure how long they spend sitting, with lesson plans revised to
reduce the time students are idle.
Why this experiment?
As per scientists, prolonged sitting during the school hours poses health risk by
contributing to obesity in students as during these hours children perform less physical
activity. Earlier studies have shown students spent two-thirds of a school day sitting,
and long hours of childhood sitting can contribute to the onset of such diseases such as
Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity.
In this experiment in which students are required to attend school hours standing they
will engage more muscles that are likely to be of great benefit for keeping the blood
flowing throughout their body and reducing the level of fatigue. If researchers find this
exercise beneficial for the cardiovascular health, learning and memory of the standing
students compared to a traditional class, this pilot study would be expanded to a much
larger trial to find if it can make an impact on lessons across Australia.
Indians consume double the recommended salt intake: Study
December 29, 2013
As per a study, the intake of salt by Indians is nearly twice the amount recommended by
the World Health Organisation (WHO). Indians consume about 3.7 grams of sodium,
corresponding to about 9.3 grams of salt per day. The positive thing is that salt (or
sodium) intake has decreased slightly in India between 1990 and 2010.
As per the research by the University of Cambridge and Harvard School of Public
Health:
The global average salt consumption in 2010 was around 10 grams per person per
day, corresponding to 4 grams per day of sodium.
In 181 of 187 nations studied, national intakes exceeded the WHO recommended
intake of 2 grams per day of sodium (about 5 grams per day of salt).
In 119 countries (88.3% of the worlds adult population), the national intake
exceeded this recommended amount by more than 1 gram per day of sodium.
There are also major regional variations around this global average. Highest
intakes are found in regions lying along the old Silk Road from East Asia,
through Central Asia to Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Is excess consumption of Common Salt (NaCl) harmful?
Yes. Earlier sudies have found that high or low salt diets are both harmful. The risk of
heart attacks, strokes, congestive heart failure, and death from heart disease, increases
considerably when people consume more than 7 grams or less than 3 grams of sodium a
day. A recent study by the US based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) had found that there is no benefit of reducing salt intake to below 2.3 g per day.
The study could not find any consistent evidence to support a link between sodium
intake and either a beneficial or adverse effect on health.
Government sanctioned Quadricycle as a new vehicle
December 28, 2013
The road transport and highways ministry sanctioned Quadricycle as a new category
of vehicle on Indian roads. These vehicles are safer than three-wheelers as they have
four wheels with fully enclosed body structure with hard top and doors. After
integrating suggestions and objections, transport minister Oscar Fernandes approved the
proposal that under this category, battery-powered or electric four-wheelers will also be
considered.

Jp Singh Page 35

About Quadricycle Vehicle
It is a four-wheel vehicle with a small engine to be positioned between a three-wheeler
and a passenger car which does not meet the same safety and emission norms of regular
passenger cars and have their own set of regulations.
The vehicle will be of two types passenger carriers and goods carriers with
different maximum kerb weights and length.
It will be allowed to ply only on city roads as transport vehicles and not as
personal vehicles.
Passenger carriers will have a maximum weight of 450kg and a max length of 3
metres, while goods carriers will have a maximum weight of 500kg and a length
of 3.7 metres.
It will be permitted to carry a maximum of four passengers or a maximum weight
of up to 500kg.
Note: Kerb (Curb) weight is the total weight of an automobile with standard equipment,
all necessary operating consumables (e.g., motor oil and coolant), and a full tank of
fuel, while not loaded with either passengers or cargo.
Michiaki Takahasi: Developer of chickenpox vaccine passed away
December 27, 2013
Dr. Michiaki Takahashi (85), a Japanese virologist, who developed a vaccine for the
chicken pox virus passed away. Dr. Takahashi developed his vaccine by growing live
but weakened versions of the virus in animal and human cells. The disease was not
sourced by the vaccine, but the vaccine encouraged immune system to create
antibodies. Thus, it fools the immune system into thinking that it has seen this disease
before.
About Chicken Pox
Caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) which is a form of herpes.
Highly contagious disease that is spread via contact with infected person.
Symptoms: rashes in the body, fever, loss of appetite, headache and tiredness.
Its most common in kids under age 12, but anyone can get chickenpox.
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, a form of herpes. If a person
contracts the virus, has an active infection and then recovers, the virus is not actually
gone from the body. It can hide in nerve cells for years or decades, then emerge again to
cause shingles, a painful condition that causes a skin rash and occurs mostly in adults.

e-Pramaan would make SMSs a valid documentary proof
December 26, 2013
Soon, SMSs will be acceptable as documentary proof for a variety of citizen-
services ranging from making payments to registrations.
The Department of electronics and information technologY (DeitY), a part of the
ministry of Communication and Information Technology, is all set to flag off a new
online authentication project.
The Central Government launched a platform with about 241 applications for the
public after completing pilot project of mobile governance with about 100
departments and testing proof of concepts.
SMS authentication is part of the e-Pramaan project which has an overall outlay
of Rs 23 crore; it will become reality by June 2014.

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The online authentication project of the Union government would enable SMSs
to be used as documentary proof for various registrations and payments.
The applications relate to services will cover areas viz. Right to Information (RTI),
health, Aadhaar, education, directory services, etc.
Mr. Mikhail Kalashnikov: Designer of AK-47 ( Avtomat Kalashnikova 1947)
passed away
December 26, 2013
Mikhail Kalashnikov (94), the Russian gun designer whose AK-47 rifle became the
weapon of choice for many national armies and guerrillas around the world, passed
away.
About AK- 47 ( Avtomat Kalashnikova 1947)
Officially known as Avtomat Kalashnikova 1947.
47 from the year (1947) it went into production.
It is a selective-fire, gas-operated 7.6239mm assault rifle and has a rate of fire of
600 rounds-a-minute. The AK-47 has only eight moving parts can be broken down and
reassembled in 30 seconds and will work in conditions that would render many other
small arms inoperable. Invented by Mikhail Kalashnikov, who received numerous
honors including the Hero of Socialist Labor and Order of Lenin and Stalin Prize.
First human artificial heart transplant executed in France
December 24, 2013
An artificial heart that can give patients up to five years of extra life has been
successfully implanted for the first time, at Georges Pompidou Hospital in Paris,
France. The equipment designed to overcome the worldwide shortage of transplant
donors was produce by French Biomedical firm Carmat, a start-up funded by the
Dutch-based European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS).
About Artificial Heart
Powered by external, wearable Lithium-ion batteries.
Inside the heart, surfaces that come into contact with human blood are made
partly from bovine tissue instead of synthetic materials such as plastic that can
cause blood clots.
Uses a range of biomaterials, including bovine tissue, to reduce the likelihood
of the body rejecting it.
Weighs about 900g (around 2 lb) nearly three times more than an average
healthy human heart. It is expected to cost 140,000 to 180,000 euros in Europe.
It mimics heart muscle contractions and contains sensors that adapt the blood
flow to the patients moves.
Intended to replace a real heart for as many as five years, unlike previous
artificial hearts that were created mainly for temporary use.
Kirobo: Worlds first robot astronaut
December 22, 2013
Kirobo, the worlds first robot astronaut talks about Christmas in its first chat with the
Japanese commander of the International Space Station.
About the worlds first robot astronaut Kirobo
Kirobo is Japans first humanoid robot astronaut, developed by Tomotaka Takahashi, to
accompany Koichi Wakata, the first Japanese commander of the International Space
Station.
Objective: To see how well robots and humans can interact.

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A pint-sized android equipped with artificial intelligence and capable of learning how to
respond appropriately to humans.
Created jointly by advertising firm Dentsu, the University of Tokyo, robot developer
Robo Garage and Toyota.
The robots capabilities include voice and speech recognition, natural language
processing, speech synthesis and telecommunications, as well as facial recognition and
video recording. Kirobo is specially designed to navigate zero-gravity environments
and will assist Commander Wakata in various experiments.

India rolls out its First indigenous LCA Tejas
December 21, 2013
Tejas, Indias first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), which is all set to replace
the MiG-21 series, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization
(DRDO) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as its principal partner.
Tejas is the smallest, light weight, single engine, single seat, supersonic, multirole,
combat aircraft, and best in its class in the world. It has many features of stealth fighter
aircraft. It will be used by both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Navy.
This fourth generation combat aircraft has Carbon Composites, light weight/high
strength material for primary structures, quadruplex Digital Flight Control System;
glass Cockpit and digital Avionics to give multirole capabilities with carefree
maneuvering. These capabilities are further raised by several on-board Sensors,
Communication and Navigation Systems that are supported by powerful Mission
Computers and Cockpit Display System.
This is for the first time an indigenously designed and developed military fighter
aircraft has certified for Indian Air Force
Features of stealth fighter aircraft
The aircraft has a totally digital fly-by-wire control system; the wings are made
entirely of composite structures.
Built by unstable configuration technique. It has open architecture software for
avionics. DRDO can update it as and when required.
It integrates a glass cockpit in which information is displayed real-time to the
pilot.
What is the future planning of Defense Research and Development Organization
(DRDO)?
Plans to test fire the indigenous Astra missile and guns from the Tejas.
Working on MARK-II type Tejas aircraft, which has a better thrust and improved
radar system than Mark-I type Tejas LCA (i.e. inducting in the Indian Air Force)
Working on the Combat variant, Trainer variant and Naval variants of Tejas.
DRDO developed a special facility in Goa, to notice the conditions for a Tejas for
Navy landing, take-off and maneuver from an aircraft carrier.
Note: Stealth aircraft are designed to avoid detection using a variety of advanced
technologies that reduce reflection/emission of radar, infrared, visible light,
Radio-Frequency (RF) spectrum, and audio, collectively known as stealth
technology.




Jp Singh Page 38

Indian scientists discovered insulin pills for diabetics
December 21, 2013
Indian scientists have discovered a pill form of insulin treatment, so now diabetes
patients would be spared from the pain of jabbing themselves with a needle every day.
The process to transform delivery of this therapy from a shot to a pill was a challenge
because bodys digestive enzymes that are so good at breaking down food also break
down insulin before it can get to work. Besides, insulin doesnt get easily absorbed
through the intestine into the bloodstream.
To overcome these hurdles, scientists combined two approaches to shield insulin from
the digestive enzymes and then get it into the blood.
They packaged insulin in tiny sacs made of lipids, or fats, called liposomes,
which are already used in some treatments. Then, they wrapped the liposomes in
layers of protective molecules called polyelectrolytes.
To help these layersomes get absorbed into the bloodstream, they attached folic
acid, a kind of vitamin B that has been shown to help transport liposomes across
the intestinal wall into the blood.
About Diabetes
Diabetes suppresses the production or use of insulin, which is a hormone that
helps blood glucose or blood sugar become absorbed into cells and gives them
energy.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body doesnt make enough insulin, and type 2
diabetes occurs when the body doesnt make or use insulin very well, causing
glucose to remain in the blood, which can lead to serious problems.
Iran space mission sends monkey to space for second time
December 19, 2013
Iran has revealed that it has successfully sent a monkey into space for the second
time in 2013 as part of a space mission aimed at manned space flight.
As per Irans President Hassan Rouhani, the monkey named Fargam, or Auspicious
came back from space in perfect health. For this programme, Iran used a liquid fuel
rocket technology for the first time. In January 2013, Iran had claimed to have sent a
monkey to an altitude of about 120km (75 miles) in a Pishgam rocket for a sub-orbital
flight before returning successfully to Earth. However, the success of the first monkey
flight was debated when a different animal was shown in images released after the
touchdown. But Iran rebuffed those debates explaining that the picture of another
monkey was mistakenly which was undergoing suitability tests.
Why the West apprehends Irans space programme?
The Western nations have raised concerns over Irans space programme as they fear the
technology could be used in ballistic missiles. Iran is already under international
pressure to give up its alleged nuclear programme and is also under the US imposed
crude oil trade embargo for the same reason.
DRDO develops heavy drop system improving Armys para-dropping capacity
December 18, 2013
DRDO has developed a 16 ton capacity Heavy Drop System (HDS) to improve
Armys para-dropping capacity. The system (HDS) consists of a platform and a highly
advanced system of parachutes to drop loads consisting of military stores such as
vehicles including BMP class, supplies and ammunition from IL-76 heavy lift aircraft.

Jp Singh Page 39

Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), an Agra-
based laboratory of the DRDO designed and developed the three prototypes of the
system. These systems are re-usable type to provide drop practice to the troops during
their regular military training during peace time.
The bulk production of 146 numbers is being initiated at L&T for the mechanical
platform and OPF Kanpur for the parachute systems.
About Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Formed in 1958, works under the Department of Defence Research and
Development of Ministry of Defense.
Headquarters: New Delhi
Aim: To make India prosperous by establishing world-class base and provide
our Defence Services decisive edge by equipping them with internationally
competitive systems and solutions.
Note: The system is extension of technology developed by DRDO for P-7 HDS, the
7-tonne capacity Heavy Drop System developed earlier and already accepted by Indian
Army for induction

Mobile makers should install SoS button for women safety: Finance Minister
December 18, 2013
On the first anniversary of December 16 brutal act that jolted the country, the Centre
approved several proposals for improving womens safety under the Nirbhaya Fund.
Finance Minister P. Chidambaram announced that mobile handset makers will have to
introduce an SoS alert button to ensure that women in distress can be reached by the
police in the minimum possible time.
Proposal from the Ministries of Home Affairs and Information Technology:
The police administration will be integrated with the mobile phone network to rapidly
respond to distress calls. The scheme will be launched in 157 cities in two phases (55 in
phase I and 102 in phase II).
Proposal from the Road Transport Ministry:
A programme Security of women in road transport in the country will be launched in
32 towns, each with a population of over 1 million. The expected cost is about Rs.
1,700 crore. Under this scheme, public transport vehicles will have GPS for easy
tracking, CCTVs and more women drivers and conductors, among others measures.
Proposal from the Railway Ministry:
It proposes to start a public scheme for establishing an SoS alert system in trains in
select zones. The facility will cover all service providers from all telecom circles. It will
have a call recording facility and a call centre.
What is Nirbhaya Fund?
Nirbhaya Fund is a Rs. 1000 crore fund was announced by Finance Minister P
Chidambaram in Budget 2013-14. The fund is aimed at enhancing the safety and for
empowerment of women. It was named after Nirbhaya- the pseudonym given to the
victim of the incident to hide her identity.
What is SoS?
SOS is the widely used description for the International Morse Code distress
signal ( ). Earlier, SOS was used as the maritime radio distress signal but
from 1999 it was replaced by the Global Maritime Distress Safety System. SOS is still
recognized as a visual distress signal.

Jp Singh Page 40

What is the composition of SOS?
The SOS distress signal is a continuous sequence of three dits, three dahs, and three
dits, all run together without letter spacing. The three dits form the letter S, and three
dahs make the letter O, so SOS became an easy way to remember the order of the dits
and dahs. SOS is the only 9-element signal in Morse code, making it more easily
identifiable, as no other symbol uses more than 8 elements.
What is the full form of SOS?
It must be noted that SOS is not an abbreviation and there it does not stand for
anything. Although some phrases like save our ship, save our souls and send out
succour were popularly associated with SOS, these may be regarded as mnemonics.
Chinas Jade Rabbit makes soft landing on Moon
December 18, 2013
Chinas Change-3 lunar spacecraft which is carrying its first moon rover Yutu or
Jade Rabbit rover made a soft landing on the moon since 1976. With this
accomplishment China has joined the elite club of the US and Russia to achieve this
feat. The probe touched down on an ancient 400-kilometre (250-mile) wide plain
known in Latin as Sinus Iridum, or The Bay of Rainbows.
What is Soft Landing?
Soft Landing is a landing by a spacecraft on the moon or a planet at a sufficiently low
velocity for the equipment or occupants to remain unharmed.
About Change-3 lunar probe
Chinas first lunar rover mission aimed at exploring the Moons surface and
looking for natural resources such as rare metals.
Launching Site: Xichang Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Chinas
southwestern Sichuan province
Launched on: December 2, 2013
Carrier: Long March-3B
Key Payload: Six-wheeled robotic rover called Yutu (or J ade Rabbit) and a
landing module.
Landing Site: Sinus Iridum, or The Bay of Rainbows in the Moons northern
hemisphere.
The coldest place on Earth is in East Antarctica
December 13, 2013
NASA satellites discovered a desolate and remote ice plateau in East Antarctica, the
coldest place on earth. The remote region plunged as low as minus 94.7
o
C (minus
135.8
o
F). This beat the previous record of -89.2 degrees Celsius measured at the
Russian Vostok Research Station in East Antarctica on July 21, 1983.
The Scientists made the discovery while examining 32 years of global surface
temperatures recorded by viz. remote sensing satellites, the new Landsat 8, a joint
project of NASA and the US Geological Survey (USGS), etc.
The super-cold temperatures are due to, air being caught and held for a while. If
the skies are clear for a few days, the ground radiates remaining heat into space,
creating a layer of super-chilled air above the snow.
Here, Antarctica air is dry, ground chilly, and the skies cloudless. The cold air swoops
down off a dome and gets trapped in a chilly lower spot. Thats why, by causing the air
to be stationary for extended periods, while continuing to radiate more heat away into
space, one can get the absolute lowest temperatures.

Jp Singh Page 41

Can humans exist at minus 94.7
o
C?
The number of human activities becomes extremely difficult at such low temperatures.
The human skin does not keep the body warm at such temperatures. In the
winters, the thick snow and long hours of darkness considerably affect vision. In
summers, the strong ultraviolet radiation from the hole in the ozone layer can
cause great damage to the eyes unless special protection is used.
It would become extremely difficult to pass urine in East Antarctica if the
temperature was recorded 26 degrees Celsius lower, because the freezing point of
urine is minus 120 degrees Celsius. This should make it obvious why there is
little to no habitation of the region.
Note: Antarctica is Earths southernmost continent, containing the geographic South
Pole. It is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent, and has the highest average
elevation of all the continents.
US and UK spying on virtual world, online games
December 13, 2013
As per the secret documents disclosed by whistle-blower Edward Snowden, in an effort
to identify terrorist threats, US and British spies have reportedly penetrated the massive
communities playing video games such as World of War craft, etc.
Why are US and UK intelligence agencies fearing from online gaming platform?
US and British intelligence fear that the terrorists could use the hugely popular platform
to plot attacks, as online gaming is a big business attracting tens of millions of users
worldwide who inhabit their digital worlds as make-believe characters, living and
competing with the avatars of other players.
Why there are concerns on the spying of online games?
The US and UK spying agencies conducted operations illegally; not taking permission
from the authorized owner of the online games. This has raised concerns over the
privacy of the online-gamers. It is however, unclear that how these agencies accessed
the data, or how many communications were collected. It is also not clear how the NSA
ensured that it was not monitoring innocent Americans whose identity and nationality
may have been concealed and compromised behind their virtual avatar.

PFBTA: Newly discovered greenhouse gas 7,000 times more potent than CO2
December 13, 2013
Researchers at University of Toronto have discovered a new greenhouse gas that is
7,000 times more powerful than carbon dioxide to cause greenhouse effect which
causes warming of the Earth.
As per the scientists, the newly discovered gas, PerFluoroTriButylAmine (PFTBA),
has been in use by the electrical industry since the mid-20th century.
The discoverers have claimed that PFTBA which does not occur naturally has the
highest radiative efficiency of any molecule detected in the atmosphere up to now.
The study showed that PFTBA was 7,100 times more powerful at warming the Earth
over a 100-year time period than CO
2
. This gas remains in the atmosphere for about 500
years, and unlike CO
2
which is absorbed by forests and oceans, there are no known
natural sinks on Earth to absorb it.
Do we need to worry about PFTBA?

Jp Singh Page 42

Not at current levels. The current concentration of PFTBA in the atmosphere is very
low as compared to CO
2
so it does not displace the focus of our concerns from the
burning of fossil fuels such as oil and coal as the main drivers of climate change.
However, higher concentration of the gas would contribute to a serious global warming.
So we need to ponder over using such compounds in large quantity without first
understanding their impact on climate change.
Oldest known human DNA decoded
December 13, 2013
The researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig,
Germany have decoded the oldest DNA ever found. They have almost completely
decoded the mitochondrial DNA (mt DNA) taken from four-lakh year old thigh bone
of human family representative of the genus Homo.
The thigh bone was discovered at a burial site Sima de los Huesos (Bone Pit) that was
preserved in Spains northern Sierra de Atapuerca highlands. The scientists have found
that the mitochondrial genome of Denisovans belongs to the extinct relatives of
Neanderthals in Asia.
What did the researchers find after decoding the oldest DNA?
This research has enhanced the knowledge of the human genetics by 300000 years and
also tells about the journey of humans evolution. After comparing the code with the
modern humans, apes, Neanderthals and their sister group, Denisovans, researchers
found that the Spanish hominins were more closely related to the geographically more
distant Denisovans than to Neanderthals.
Tejas test-fires missile successfully
December 8, 2013
Indias first indigenously designed and developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
Tejas successfully launched an infrared seeking air-to-air missile that hit its target
with precision.
With the success achieved in the test, the plan to induct the aircraft in the Indian Air
Force has moved further.
About LCA Tejas
The LCA was christened Tejas (Radiance) by Prime Minister AB Vajpayee in June
2004. The Indian Light Combat Aircraft (LCA sometimes called Last Chance
Aircraft) is the worlds smallest, light weight, multi-role combat aircraft.
The aircraft is designed to meet the requirements of Indian Air Force as its frontline
multi-mission single-seat tactical aircraft to replace the MiG-21 series of aircraft. The
delta wing configuration, with no tailplanes or foreplanes, features a single vertical fin.
The LCA is constructed of aluminium-lithium alloys, carbon-fibre composites, and
titanium and it integrates modern design concepts and the state-of-art technologies such
as relaxed static stability, flyby-wire Flight Control System, Advanced Digital Cockpit,
Multi-Mode Radar, Integrated Digital Avionics System, Advanced Composite Material
Structures and a Flat Rated Engine.
The LCA program was launched in 1985. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is the
Principal Partner in the design and fabrication of LCA and its integration leading to
flight testing.



Jp Singh Page 43

Oxford researchers develop new malaria vaccine
December 7, 2013
In a major scientific development, scientists at Oxford University have developed a
new malaria vaccine which can guard against the deadly mosquito-borne disease.
The vaccine has shown promising results in the first clinical trial in which some of the
adult volunteers were completely protected against malaria.
Its the first time that a vaccine has been shown to have a protective effect through a
sufficiently high immune response involving cells called CD8 T cells. It is CD8
immune cells that are seen to vanguard a protective response against malaria in similar
studies in mice.
How this vaccine is different from existing vaccines?
At present, every vaccine in use generates antibodies. But there are two divisions to the
bodys immune system for combating infection: antibodies and T cells. The latest
vaccine is different in a way that it aims to induce an immune response involving T
cells particularly CD8+ T cells. CD8 T cells are vital because they are the main killer
cells in the immune system. They can attack nearly all types of infected cells in this
case liver cells infected with the malaria parasite.

Microsoft mulls stronger encryption of Internet traffic
December 6, 2013
In the face of NSA syping, software giant Microsoft is eyeing a stronger encryption and
it is taking steps to protect the privacy of online communications.
Why a need for encryption of Internet traffic ?
The move by Microsoft is in the wake of revelations of vast online surveillance
programs led by the US National Security Agency. Comparing US government
surveillance to sophisticated malware and cyber attacks, the software giant will encrypt
Internet traffic traveling through its data centers. It is taking steps to ensure that any
government surveillance of the Internet is conducted legally rather than by a
technological subterfuge.
Technique used by Microsoft
Microsoft plans to switch over to stronger 2,048-bit encryption keys by the end of next
year a technology that reportedly takes ten years to crack in real time because of
computing power constraints.
NASA discovers signs of water in atmosphere five distant planets
December 5, 2013
NASA scientists have found signs of water in the atmospheres of five distant planets.
Though some previous studies have also reported the presence of atmospheric water on
a few exoplanets orbiting stars beyond the solar system, but this is the first study to
conclusively measure and compare the profiles and intensities of these signatures on
multiple worlds.
Which are the five planets where NASA has found signs of water?
The five planets are:
1. WASP-17b
2. HD209458b
3. WASP-12b
4. WASP-19b

Jp Singh Page 44

5. XO-1b e
India successfully test-fired nuke-capable Prithvi II missile
December 5, 2013
Indias Strategic Forces Command (SFC) successfully test-fired nuclear capable
Prithvi II missile as part of a regular training exercise. The indigenously developed
ballistic missile with a maximum range of 350 km was fired from Integrated Test
Range at Chandipur in Balasore district, about 230 km from Bhubaneswar.
Prithvi-II
First missile developed by DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile
Development Program (IGMDP)
Medium: Surface-to-surface
Fuel Type: Single-stage liquid fuelled
Payload capacity: 500 to 1000 kg
Range: 350km
Variants: Prithvi I for Army, Prithvi II for Air Force and; Dhanush for the
Navy
Inducted into the SFC in 2003
RBI makes punching PIN mandatory for debit card transactions done every time
December 2, 2013
With an aim to minimize frauds, RBI has made it mandatory for debit card holders to
punch in their PIN numbers every time they use the card. In June 2013, the central bank
had extended the deadline for implementation of mandatory PIN punching at Point-of-
Sales (PoS) and merchant outlets till November 30, 2013 following representation of
banks.
Why this step by the RBI to make punching PIN mandatory for debit card
transactions done every time?
The PIN functions as another layer of security for the debit card which reduces the
chances of fraud. While using it at PoS, merchants will first swipe the cards at a PIN
enabled PoS terminal and punch in the transaction amount. That will be followed by
customers punching their PINs to complete the transaction.

Change-3: Chinas lunar probe carrying Jade Rabbit moon buggy lifts off
December 2, 2013
In an attempt to carry out its first ever soft landing on moon, China launched its lunar
mission-Change-3 which is carrying countrys first moon rover marking a major
milestone for Chinas space programme.
Soft Landing: A landing by a spacecraft on the moon or a planet at a sufficiently low
velocity for the equipment or occupants to remain unharmed.
About Change-3 lunar probe
Chinas first lunar rover mission aimed at exploring the Moons surface and
looking for natural resources such as rare metals.
Launching Site: Xichang Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Chinas
southwestern Sichuan province
Launched on: December 2, 2013
Carrier: Long March-3B
Key Payload: Six-wheeled robotic rover called Yutu (or J ade Rabbit) and a
landing module.

Jp Singh Page 45

Expected landing: In the Moons northern hemisphere in mid-December.
Note: If the lunar mission is successful, China will become the third country, after the
United States and the former Soviet Union, to soft-land on the moon.
MOM enters Mars trajectory: ISRO
December 2, 2013
In a historic development, Indias first Mars mission- the Mars Orbiter Missions
(MOM) spacecrafts was propelled into the Mars Transfer Trajectory freeing it from
the influence of Earths gravity. ISRO successfully conducted the Trans Mars Injection
(TMI) operations to put MOM on course to the Red Planet with the help of spacecrafts
440 Newton liquid engine which was fired for about 22 minutes providing a velocity
increment of 648 metres/second to the spacecraft. With this, the Earth orbiting phase of
the spacecraft ended and is now on path to Mars.
The spacecraft is being continuously monitored from the Spacecraft Control
Centre at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in
Bangalore with support from Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) antennae at Byalalu.
About Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) has been named Mangalyan
Launched onboard PSLV C25 on November 5, 2013 at 14:38 hours from the first
launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre atSriharikota.
Indias first interplanetary mission to planet Mars with an orbiter craft designed
to orbit Mars in an elliptical orbit.
It will reach Martian transfer trajectory in September 2014. Subsequently, it is
planned to enter into a 372 km by 80000 km elliptical orbit around Mars.
Objectives of Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
To showcase Indias technological prowess to send a satellite to orbit around
Mars and conduct important experiments such as looking for signs of life, take
pictures of the red planet and study Martian environment.
To develop the technologies required for design, planning, management and
operations of an interplanetary mission.
Design and realisation of a Mars orbiter with a capability to survive and perform
Earth bound manoeuvres, cruise phase of 300 days, Mars orbit insertion or
capture.
Deep space communication, navigation, mission planning and management.
Incorporate autonomous features to handle contingency situations.
Exploration of Mars surface features, morphology, mineralogy and Martian
atmosphere by indigenous scientific instruments.
Key Payloads on PSLV C25:
1. Lyman Alpha Photometer (LAP)
2. Methane Sensor for Mars (MSM)
3. Mars Exospheric Neutral Composition Analyser (MENCA)
4. Mars Colour Camera (MCC)
5. Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometre (TIS)
Panipat gets Indias first Synthetic Rubber Plant
December 2, 2013
Indias first Synthetic Rubber Plant was unveiled at Panipat in Haryana.
The plant has been set up by Indian Synthetic Rubber Ltd (ISRL) which is a joint
venture promoted by Indian Oil, TSRC Corporation, Taiwan, and Marubeni

Jp Singh Page 46

Corporation, Japan.
The plant will be the countrys first unit to produce e-SBR (Styrene Butadiene
Rubber) whose output will be 120 kilo tonnes synthetic rubber annually. The rubber
produced would be used in industrial units for manufacturing automobile and daily need
products. The project, which is estimated to cost Rs. 958 crore, has been financed
through debt raised from Japan Bank for International Cooperation and Mizuho
Corporation Bank.
What is SBR (Styrene-butadiene or Styrene-Butadiene Rubber)?
Styrene-butadiene or Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) describes families
of synthetic rubbers derived from styrene and butadiene. These materials have
good abrasion resistance and good aging stability when protected by additives. About
50% of car tires are made from various types of SBR.
Cyber Coalition 2013: NATOs largest-ever cyber-security exercise held in Estonia
December 1, 2013
NATO held Cyber Coalition 2013: Largest-ever cyber-exercises to practise averting
large-scale, simultaneous cyber attacks on member states and their allies. The drill was
hosted by National Defence College training center in Tartu, Estonia.
Objective: Cyber Coalition an exercise with technical components to give its
participants a good learning about NATOs Cyber Defence capabilities, identify areas
for improvement within the NATO-wide Cyber Defence community. It also aims to
better the capability, cooperation and information sharing between NATO and NATO
nations and partners in cyber defence via mode of education, research and development,
lessons learnt.
Who all participated in Cyber Coalition 2013?
Representatives of 27 nations and NATO partners from Switzerland, Austria, Sweden,
Ireland and Finland participated in the drill. New Zealand and the European Union took
part as observers. A total of 400 people participated, including government, legal and IT
experts. Participants put their skills to the test to show how they would respond to a
cyber attack.
About Cyber Defence Exercises
Objective: Cyber defence exercises allows its participants to learn and test the
skills needed to fend off a real attack.
First exercise: 2008, a joint between Swedish and Estonian universities.
Second Exercise: Baltic Cyber Shield (2010), organised by Swedish National
Defence College (SNDC), various Swedish institutions and the Estonian Cyber
Defence League.
Since 2012, the exercise series is called Locked Shields.
Locked Shields 2013
Took place in the end on April 2013
Blue Teams were part of an international coalition forces in unstable country
called Boolea.
Locked Shields (CDx) is a real-time network defence exercise
CDx has a game-based approach which means that no organisation will play their
real-life role and the scenario is fictional.
Exercise organised by NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of
Excellence together with its partners.
Technical support by Cisco, Clarified Networks, Clarified Security and Bytelife.

Jp Singh Page 47


SFC test fire Dhanush missile successfully
November 25, 2013
Indias Strategic Forces Command (SFC) successfully test-fired nuclear-capable
Dhanush ballistic missile from a naval ship off Odisha coast.
Dhanush Missile:
Surface-to-surface missile developed by DRDO under the Integrated Guided
Missile Development Programme (IGMDP)
Naval variant of Indias indigenously developed Prithvi missile
Single-stage, liquid propelled
Can carry conventional as well as nuclear payload of 500 to 1,000 kg and strike
both land and sea-based targets
Already inducted into the armed services
Prof CNR Rao becomes first Indian scientist elected to Chinese Academy of
Science
November 23, 2013
Eminent Scientist and Bharat Ratna awardee Prof CNR Rao has become the first
Indian scientist to be elected as honorary foreign member of Chinese Academy of
Science (CAS).
CAS consists of several Nobel laureates and eminent scientists of the world. Prof. Rao
was recently awarded the Bharat Ratna. In 2012, CAS had conferred on him the
prestigious Award for International Scientific Cooperation.
About C.N.R. Rao (Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra Rao)
An Indian scientist
One of the worlds foremost chemists in the field of Solid State, Structural and
Materials Chemistry.
His work on transition metal oxides led to basic understanding of novel
phenomena and the relationship between materials properties and the structural
chemistry of metal oxides.
Currently, he heads the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of
India.
Authored around 1500 research papers.
Authored and edited 45 books.
First Indian scientist to reach the h-index of 100.
One of the earliest to synthesize two-dimensional oxide materials such as
La2CuO4.
His findings have resulted into a systematic study of compositionally controlled
metal-insulator transitions. Such findings have immensely helped in fields such
as colossal magneto resistance and high temperature superconductivity. His oxide
semiconductors have uncommon promise.
Made significant contributions to nano materials, apart from his work on hybrid
materials.
Elected to almost all scientific academies of the world including The Royal
Society -London, National Academy of Science USA, Pontifical Academy of
Science, Japan Academy and Royal Spanish Academy of Sciences, among
others.

Jp Singh Page 48

Conferred 60 Honoris Causa (Honorary Doctorates) by various universities
across the globe.
What is h-index (also called the Hirsch index or Hirsch number)?
h-index (also called the Hirsch index or Hirsch number) is a tool that measures
the productivity and impact of the published work of a scientist or scholar.
Based on the set of the scientists most cited papers and the number of citations
that the individual has received in other publications.
Physicist Jorge Hirsch was the first one to coin it in 2005.
George Whitesides of Harvard University has an h-index of 169, which makes
him the highest ranked living chemist.
Sukhoi-30 chosen to mount BrahMos: IAF
November 23, 2013
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided to make its deep penetration Sukhoi-30
fighter jets a platform to mount the air version of supersonic BrahMos missiles, whose
first test-launch will be conducted by the end of 2014.
Sukhoi-30 is being manufactured at Hindustan Aeronautics Limiteds Nashik facility in
collaboration with the Russians. The air version of the BrahMos missile is ready, but it
will take a year more for testing, simulations and aircraft modifications.
BrahMos Aerospace is bound to deliver the supersonic cruise missile to the IAF starting
2015. It has also slashed the weight of the missile to 2.5 tonne from the normal 3 tonne
as demanded by the IAF as the launch at high speeds requires lesser components on
propulsion.
The BrahMos has already been inducted by the Army and the Navy. However, an air
platform has not been provided yet.
The Brahmos missile:
Project: Joint Venture of India and Russia for manufacturing the supersonic
cruise missiles for use by the armed forces of both the countries.
BrahMos = Brahmaputra and Moskva (Rivers of India and Russia respectively)
Companies involved: DRDO (India) and NOPM (Russia)
Partnership: 50.5 (India):49.5 (Russia)
Speed: Mach 2.8 to 3.0. Worlds fastest cruise missile in operation.
Range: 290 km
Can carry conventional warhead of 300 kg
Available with different versions which can be launched from submarines, ships,
aircraft or land.
Still some time for Voice Over LTE technology to arrive in India
November 23, 2013
Voice Over LTE technology, which will soon be deployed in USA shortly by some of
the mobile companies, has still some time to yet arrive in India. Indian operators in due
course will adopt the 4G LTE standard which will improve the carrying capacity of
airwaves, furnish data at nearly 10 times the speed offered on 3G and better quality
voice, etc.
What is Voice Over LTE technology?
Voice Over LTE technology is a technology for providing a unified format of voice
traffic on LTE, and other systems including CSFB (Circuit Switched FallBack ), and
SV-LTE (Simultaneous voice and LTE). It empowers 4G LTE operators to offer rich
voice, video and messaging services as a core offering.

Jp Singh Page 49

LTE stands for Long Term Evolution.
LTE technology marketed as 4G LTE is a GSMA VoLTE IR.92 specification, based on
global 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) standards, for wireless
communication of high-speed data for mobile phones and data terminals. LTE is
optimized for data transfer and designed as a packet switched all-IP system only; it does
not include any circuit switched domain currently used for regular voice and SMS
services.
Dissimilar to former cellular telecommunications standards including GSM, LTE
doesnt have devoted channels for circuit switched telephony. Rather LTE is an all-IP
system allowing for an end-to-end IP connection from the mobile equipment to the core
network and out again.
Why a need for Voice Over LTE (VOLTE)?
The Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a result of operators seeking a standardized system
for transferring voice traffic over LTE. Initially LTE was seen as a totally IP cellular
system just for carrying data, and operators would be able to carry voice either by
reverting to 2G / 3G systems or by using VoIP. Operators, nevertheless saw the fact that
a voice format was not defined as a key omission for the system. It was seen that the
lack of standardization may provide problems with scenarios including roaming. SMS
is a key necessity. As mobile operators receive much of their revenues from voice and
SMS traffic, it is essential to have a feasible and standardized scheme to render these
services and guard this revenue.
What is the probable problem with India in implementing Voice Over LTE
(VOLTE) technology?
Once VoLTE is implemented in USA, the technology will move faster to other
countries viz. India but there are some basic issues with implementing the technology in
India:
Albeit software can be adapted in India but the underlying hardware for the 2300
MHz band is the key issue. The spectrum in the 2300 MHz band which Reliance
Jio infocomm and Bharati Airtel won in order to offer 4G services emits weaks
signals, which implies poor service quality. This issue is increased when it comes
to transmitting voice.
In Europe, however the LTE operated in the 700 MHz band.
India and China both have opted for TD-LTE (Time-Division Long-Term
Evolution) standard which owing to lack of global scale, makes necessary
hardware costly.

NASA discovers granite on Mars
November 22, 2013
As per a research team from the US space agency NASA, granite an igneous rock
common on Earth could be found in abundance on Mars. The research backed by the
NASA Mars Data Analysis Program strengthens the evidence for granite on Mars by
using remote sensing techniques with infrared spectroscopy to survey a large volcano
on Mars that was active for billions of years.
The ancient Martian volcano has large amounts of a mineral found in granite called
feldspar. Minerals that are common in basalts rich in iron and magnesium are nearly
completely absent here.

Jp Singh Page 50

For a long time Mars was understood to be geologically simplistic consisting mostly of
one type of rock as opposed to the complex geology of Earth. Most of the surface of
Mars is covered by dark-coloured volcanic rocks called basalt.
How the granite could have formed on Mars?
The location of the feldspar near the volcano can explain the formation of granite Mars.
It occurs by a process called fractionation in which the magma slowly cools in the
subsurface and low density melt separates from dense crystals. The cycle is repeated
again and again for millennia until granite is formed. Granite or its eruptive equivalent
rhyolite is often found on Earth in tectonically active regions. Though this is
improbable on Mars but the scientists concluded that extended magmatic activity on
Mars can also produce it on a large scale.
Mars refreshes asteroids: Scientists
November 22, 2013
Scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have found that Mars causes
refreshing of some near-Earth asteroids, causing the space rocks to appear redder than
meteorites.
What is refreshing in terms of asteroids?
Scientists have long been puzzled over why asteroids appear redder than meteorites
the remnants of asteroids that have crashed to Earth. Later, it was thought to occur due
to the effect of the Earths gravity on the asteroids passing closer to its orbit which
causes the surface material to shift, exposing fresh material, causing it to appear redder.
This surface material shift phenomenon is called Refreshing.
How Mars refreshes asteroids?
In the latest findings, scientists have calculated that the gravity of Mars can also cause
these phenomena. Scientists calculated the orbits of 60 refreshed asteroids, and found
that 10% of these never cross Earths orbit. Instead, these asteroids only come close to
Mars, suggesting that the Red Planet can refresh the surfaces of these asteroids. These
findings show that Earth is not the only major factor behind the refreshing of
asteroids. The finding is also a surprising one as the Red Planet is one-third the size of
Earth, and one-tenth as massive and therefore exerts a far weaker gravitational pull
on surrounding objects. But Mars position in the solar system places the planet in close
proximity with the asteroid belt, increasing the chance of close asteroid encounters.
Google launches Wallet debit card in US
November 22, 2013
Internet search engine giant Google launched Wallet Card in the US. It is a prepaid
debit card that will facilitate consumers to buy goods at stores and to withdraw
cash from ATM machines.
What does Google Wallet Card offer?
The card allows consumers access the funds stored in their Google Wallet accounts.
Consumers can use this facility to purchasing goods at stores and to withdraw cash from
ATM machines. Consumers add money to the new Wallet Card by linking it to a bank
account or when another person transfers money to their Google Wallet account. The
card can be ordered online from Wednesday, and typically takes 10 to 12 days to arrive.
The card is free and the company will not charge cardholders any monthly or annual
fees.



Jp Singh Page 51

What is Google Wallet?
Google Wallet is a smartphone app and online payment service that allows consumers
buy goods and transfer money to each other.
NASA launches MAVEN to explore Mars
November 20, 2013
In a bid to dismantle the ancient mystery of Mars radical climate change, US space
agency NASA launched robotic explorer MAVEN rocketed toward the red planet. The
unmanned spacecraft was launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401
rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida, US. This is NASAs 21
st
mission to Mars since
the 1960s. But its the first one dedicated to studying the Martian upper atmosphere.
Scientists are eager to know why the climate of Mars changed from warm and wet
during its first billion year to cold and dry today. The early Martian atmosphere was
thick enough to hold water and possibly support microbial life. But much of that
atmosphere may have been lost to space, eroded by the sun.
About MAVEN:
MAVEN: Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN
Aim: To study the Martian upper atmosphere and conduct its experiments from
orbit around Mars.
Launched by NASA on November 20, 2013 from Cape Canaveral on Atlas V
rocket.
It is the first spacecraft devoted to exploring and understanding the Martian upper
atmosphere.
Reach Mars on September 22, 2014 after travelling over 440 million miles (700
million kilometres).
Carries 8 instruments: Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer, Imaging
Ultraviolet Spectrograph, Magnetometer, Solar Wind Electron Analyzer,
SupraThermal And Thermal Ion Composition, Langmuir Probe and Waves
antenna, Solar Energetic Particles and Solar Wind Ion Analyzer.

Sun to swap its polarity within weeks: NASA
November 17, 2013
According to the US space agency NASA, the Suns magnetic field will reverse its
polarity within weeks. Although the event is normal and not catastrophic, it will send
ripple effects throughout the solar system.
Why the Sun switches its polarity?
The sun swaps its polarity, flipping its magnetic north and south, once every 11 years
through an internal mechanism about which little is known.
The polarity change is built up throughout the eleven year cycle through areas of
intense magnetic activity known as sunspots which gradually move towards the poles,
eroding the existing opposite polarity. Finally, the magnetic field reduces to zero, and is
swapped with the opposite polarity.
How the reversion of Suns polarity could affect us?
This event will not cause any catastrophe. However, the swap could cause intergalactic
weather fronts such as geomagnetic storms, which can interfere with satellites and
cause radio blackouts. The impact of the transfer will be extensive as the suns
magnetic field wields influence well beyond Pluto, past Nasas Voyager probes
positioned near the edge of interstellar space.

Jp Singh Page 52

Bharat Ratna for scientist Prof. C.N.R.Rao
November 16, 2013
Prof. C.N.R. Rao, the man behind Indias maiden Mars mission, to be conferred with
the prestigious Bharat Ratna Award, Indias highest civilian award.
About C.N.R. Rao (Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra Rao)
An Indian scientist
Worked mainly in solid-state and structural chemistry.
One of the worlds foremost solid state and materials chemists.
Raos work on transition metal oxides led to basic understanding of novel phenomena
and the relationship between materials properties and the structural chemistry of metal
oxides.
At present, he is the Head of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of
India.
Author of around 1500 research papers.
Authored and edited 45 books.
First Indian scientist to reach the h-index of 100.
One of the earliest to synthesize two-dimensional oxide materials such as La2CuO4.
Raos findings have resulted into a systematic study of compositionally controlled
metal-insulator transitions. Such findings have emmensely helpes in fields such as
colossal magneto resistance and high temperature superconductivity. Oxide
semiconductors have uncommon promise.
Made good contribution to nano materials, apart from his work on hybrid materials.
What is h-index (also called the Hirsch index or Hirsch number)?
h-index (also called the Hirsch index or Hirsch number) is a tool that measures
the productivity and impact of the published work of a scientist or scholar.
Based on the set of the scientists most cited papers and the number of citations
that the individual has received in other publications.
Physicist Jorge Hirsch was the first one to coin it in 2005.
George Whitesides of Harvard University has an h-index of 169, which makes
him the highest ranked living chemist.
Researchers working to replace computer passwords with Biometrics
November 14, 2013
Scientists at Purdue University (USA) are working on technology that could replace
passwords used in computer with biometrics such as iris and fingerprint scans.
As per experts, iris and fingerprint scans as well as facial and voice recognition some of
the tools that can improve security while also enhancing convenience in using it.
What is that biometric technology being researched?
That technology can facilitate its user to log into a computer or activate a smartphone
just by swiping their fingerprint over a sensor and obviate the need to frequently change
passwords.
Why biometric technology to replace the use of passwords?
As per researchers, it is burdensome for most people to used different passwords for
different things which make them use the same passwords for a lot of things rendering
them vulnerable to password theft.




Jp Singh Page 53

Android phone market share rose to 81%
November 14, 2013
As per a survey by IDC, the penetration of Googles Android platform enhanced such
that it is used on four out of five smartphones sold worldwide. Microsofts Windows
Phone too registered sharp rise with an increase of 156% in sales.
As per the survey:
Android market share surged to 81%, extending its lead over Apples iOS, used
on its iPhones, In 2012, Androids share was 74.9%.
Despite making 25.6% growth in sales, Apples overall market share declines to
12.9% from 14.4% in the same period in 2012.
Windows Phone has come up as the number three smartphone platform with a
market share of 3.6%, up from 2%. It recorded a sales growth by 156%, with
more than 90% made by Nokia, the Finnish group whose handset division is set
to be acquired by Microsoft.
The share of BlackBerry reduced further to 1.7% from 4.1% in the same period a
year ago. Its sales too plunged 41.6% from a year ago despite the launch of the
new BlackBerry 10 operating system.
The overall market for smartphones expanded 39.9% year-over-year, to 261
million units.

P/2013 P5: Newly discovered asteroid with six tails
November 13, 2013
NASAs Hubble Space Telescope spotted an asteroid with six comet-like tails of dust
radiating from it.
The asteroid named P/2013 P5 is different from all other known asteroids as it appears
similar to a rotating lawn sprinkler and has surprised astronomers with its unusual look.
Besides, its tail structures change dramatically in just 13 days as it spews out dust.
P/2013 P5 has been throwing out dust periodically for at least five months. Astronomers
are of the view that it is possible the asteroids rotation rate increased to the point where
its surface started ejecting out. According to scientists, the asteroid looks like a
fragment of a larger asteroid that broke apart in a collision roughly 200 million years
ago.
What is a Comet?
A comet is an icy small Solar System body. When a comet passes close to the Sun, it
heats up and begins to eject gas, forming a visible atmosphere or coma, and sometimes
also a tail. These phenomena are due to the effects of solar radiation and the solar
wind upon the nucleus of the comet.
How Comets differ from Asteroids?
Comets are different from asteroids as comets have an extended, gravitationally
unbound atmosphere surrounding their central nucleus. This atmosphere has parts
termed the coma (the central atmosphere immediately surrounding the nucleus) and the
tail (a typically linear section consisting of dust or gas blown out from the coma by the
Suns light pressure or outstreaming solar wind plasma). However, extinct comets that
have passed close to the Sun many times have lost nearly all of their volatile ices and
dust and may appear similar to small asteroids.Asteroids are considered to have a
different origin from comets, having formed inside the orbit of Jupiter rather than in the
outer Solar System.

Jp Singh Page 54

Stress may hamper memory: Research
November 13, 2013
As per a study conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter (U.K.) and the
University of Calgary (Canada), high levels of stress can block memory processes.
What was the study?
Researchers performed experiments on pond snails (Lymnaea stagnalis) which have
easily observable behaviors linked to memory and large neurons in the brain and they
also respond to stressful events in a similar way to mammals, making them a useful
model species to study learning and memory.
Pond snails generally breathe underwater through skin and if the water has low oxygen
levels the snails emerge and inhale air using a basic lung opened to the air via a
breathing hole. In the experiment, the pond snails were trained to reduce how often they
breathed outside water. To train the snails not to breathe air they were placed in poorly
oxygenated water and their breathing holes were gently poked every time they emerged
to breathe. Snail memory was tested by observing how many times the snails attempted
to breathe air after they had received their training. Memory was considered to be
present if there was a decrease in the number of times they opened their breathing holes.
Their memory was also assessed by monitoring neural activity in their brain.
Just before training, the snails were subjected to two different stressful situations, low
calcium which is stressful as calcium is necessary for healthy shells and
overcrowding by other pond snails.
What was found?
It was found that when snails faced with the stressors individually, their ability to form
long term memory declined, although they were still able to learn and form short and
intermediate term memory. However, when they were exposed to both stressors
simultaneously, it made an additive impact on the snails ability to form memory and all
learning and memory processes were blocked. It was found that when they were
exposed to multiple stressful events they were unable to remember what they had
learned.
ISRO gears up for GSLV mission
November 12, 2013
After the jubilant launch of the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), Indias space research
organization ISRO is preparing for flight-testing of GSLV with indigenous cryogenic
engine.
The launch is scheduled for December 15, 2013. ISROs maiden flight testing of the
indigenous cryogenic engine and stage conducted in GSLV-D3 on April 15, 2010,
failed.
In August 2013, ISRO planned GSLV-D5 but the launch was cancelled as a leak was
observed in the UH25 fuel system of the liquid second stage during the pre-launch
pressurisation phase on the vehicle just two hours before the scheduled lift-off.
What is GSLV?
GSLV is a three stage vehicle. It is 49 metre tall, with 414 tonne lift off weight. Its first
stage comprises S125 solid booster with four liquid (L40) strap-ons. Second stage
(GS2) is liquid engine and the third stage (GS3) is a cryostage.
Why cryogenic stage is important?
The cryostage is more efficient compared to the liquid stage in PSLV. This means that
the thrust developed by burning each kg of propellant is higher in cryo engine, hence

Jp Singh Page 55

can place larger payloads with higher weight into orbit. This stage is crucial for a
launcher with higher payload capacity.
How GSLV has advantage over PSLV?
The main limitation of PSLV is its inability to launch heavy satellites of the weight of
2000 kg or above. PSLV is capable of launching 1600 kg satellites in 620 km sun-
synchronous polar orbit and 1050 kg satellite in geo-synchronous transfer orbit
(GTO). On the other hand, the GSLV is capable of launching satellites which are 2000
kg 2500 kg which matches with the GSAT class of Communication satellites.
Currentstatus:
Currently, India is dependent on outsourcing the heavy launch vehicles from abroad
which is not a cost effective solution. We want to develop our own GSLV launcher to
become self-reliant in the launch capability. Success in launching GSLV will bring
India into a elite group of nations who possess this technology.
Which are countries who possess Cryogenic Engine technology?
At present only five countries viz. United
States, Russia, France, Japanand China have the cryogenic engine upper stage
technology to launch heavier satellites in geostationary orbit. India is the sixth country
to design and develop the cryogenic technology.
Use of licensed software can add $739 billion to Indias GDP: Study
November 12, 2013
As per Global Intellectual Property Centre (GIPC), the use of licenced software can
help to boost Indias Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by $739 billion.
As per GIPC:
The music industry alone faced an estimated total loss of $431 million in 2012
due to piracy.
In 2011, the software industry accounted a 63% rate of PC software piracy with a
commercial value of unlicensed software estimated to be over $2.9 billion.
If the use of licensed software is increased by 1%, it would generate almost $1.3
billion in national production for India, compared with $554 million from a
similar increase in pirated software.
It suggests Government, law enforcement and industry in India to take measures
to realize this gain by reducing piracy and encouraging use of licensed software.
The physical, online and mobile piracy, illegal recording of movies from cinema
screens and unlicensed use of software by enterprises, print and photocopy piracy
strangulate the market for other creative sectors.
What is Global Intellectual Property Center (GIPC)?
The Global Intellectual Property Center (GIPC) is an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce. It is leading a worldwide effort to champion intellectual property rights as
vital to creating jobs, saving lives, advancing global economic growth, and generating
breakthrough solutions to global challenges.

Laser Space Communication Systems to play instrumental role in future missions:
NASA
November 10, 2013
The US space agency NASA is doing intensive research to develop laser-based space
communications systems which will play a major role in ensuring rapid and accurate
transmission of information from spacecrafts around the solar system.

Jp Singh Page 56

Since inception of the space missions, NASA probes have beamed data home to Earth
using radio-frequency communication.
Why do we need Laser Space Communication Systems?
As compared to primitive stages of space missions, we have now advanced to more
highly detailed science and larger volume of data is generated which the radio-based
communication links are less efficient to transmit. Space laser communications
technology has the potential to provide 10 to 100 times higher data rates than traditional
radio frequency systems for the same mass and power. Alternatively, numerous NASA
studies have shown that a laser communications system will use less mass and power
than a radio frequency system for the same data rate.
What are NASAs plans for laser communication systems?
In order to test the potential and applicability of laser communication systems in space
missions, NASA has planned Laser Communications Relay Demonstration mission
(LCRD), which is slated to be launched in December 2017.
What is Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD)?
Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) mission is a NASA mission
to use laser light to transfer data from orbit to ground and all around the solar
system. LCRD will be launched to geosynchronous orbit as a payload on a commercial
communications satellite developed by the company Space Systems/Loral. The
experiment involves the use of two optical modules to use lasers to send information to
ground stations at rates of up to 1.25 gigabytes per second. LCRD will operate for at
least 2 years, with the aim of demonstrating the long-term viability of a space-based
laser communications system.
LCRD is based on the technology that has already been experimented successfully in
the Lunar Laser Communications Demonstration experiment, or LLCD, which was
launched to the moon aboard NASAs Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment
Explorer spacecraft in October 2013.
LLCD used a pulsed laser beam to send data 384,400 kilometers from lunar orbit to
Earth at a rate of 622 megabits per second. Comparatively, the LLCD system is also
more efficient than the radio-frequency approach employed by LRO and other
spacecraft, requiring significantly less mass and power.
JNCASR is the institution with the highest impact: Science Citation Index
November 10, 2013
Bangalore based Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research
(JNCASR), which is celebrating its silver jubilee, has been recognized as the institution
with the highest impact in nano , according to the Science Citation Index for 2010-
11.
Another institute, the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, has been acknowledged
as the institute with highest number papers published. The rating was made after an
analysis of 90,958 papers published by Indian scientists in 2010-11.
JNCASR has been focusing on four major areas of interest such as advanced materials,
molecular biology & genetics, evolutionary biology, and engineering mechanics. Over
the years, the JNCASR has filed 150 patent applications and received 12 patents from
various countries. It is looking for partners to convert these findings into technology
that could reach people.



Jp Singh Page 57

U.S. food authority to ban trans fat
November 10, 2013
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has decided to ban the heart-clogging
trans fats. As per FDA, although manufacturers already have eliminated many trans
fats, the average American still eats around a gram of trans fat a day eliminating which
could prevent 20,000 heart attacks and 7,000 deaths each year. Keeping this in mind,
the FDA would determine a phase-out timetable in a few months.
What is Trans Fat?
Trans-isomer fatty acids, or trans fats, are a type of unsaturated fat, which is
uncommon in nature but can be easily created artificially. These trans-isomer (E-
isomer) fatty acids are sometimes mono-unsaturated or polyunsaturated due to the
presence of a double carboncarbon bond, but they are never saturated.
How they are formed?
Trans fats are formed during the processing of polyunsaturated fatty acids in food
manufacturing. The fats are created when hydrogen is added to vegetable oil to make it
more solid, which is why they are often called partially hydrogenated oils. In plants
and animals, fatty acids generally have cis (as opposed to trans) unsaturations.
Trans fats are used both in processed food and in restaurants, often to improve the
texture, shelf life or flavour. The fats are found in some baked goods such as pie crusts
and biscuits and in ready-to-eat frostings.
Why trans fat is harmful to our health?
In humans, consumption of trans fats increases the risk of coronary heart disease

by
raising levels of the lipoprotein LDL (bad cholesterol) and lowering levels of the
lipoprotein HDL (good cholesterol).
SFC test-fires Agni-1 successfully
November 10, 2013
Indias Strategic Forces Command successfully test-fired nuclear weapons-capable,
surface-to-surface Agni-1 missile for its full range of 700 km from Wheeler Island, off
the Odisha coast. The single-stage, solid-fuelled missile was launched from a road
mobile launcher as part of a regular training exercise.
Agni-1 Missile:
Developed by DRDO
Strike Range: 700 km
Surface-to-Surface
Nuclear-weapon capable
Single-staged
Powered by solid propellants
Weighs 12 tons, 15-metre long
Carrying capacity: Upto 1000 kg (1 Ton)
cience and Technology
Google doodle marks Hermann Rorschachs 129th birthday
November 9, 2013
Celebrating the 129
th
birthday of Hermann Rorschach, Google dedicated a doodle on
its homepage depicting inkblot testsdeveloped by the eminent psychoanalyst.
Who was Hermann Rorschach?
Born on November 8, 1884 in Zurich, Switzerland, Hermann Rorschach was a
Swiss Freudian psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. In 1909, Rorschach graduated in

Jp Singh Page 58

medicine at Zurich. Rorschach was influenced by Eugen Bleuler, a prominent
psychiatrist of his time.
He found that different people often interpreted different things in same inkblots. This
led him to pursue the test by showing inkblots and analyzing responses. He went on to
develop the famous creative projective test, the Rorschach inkblot test. His test was
appreciated and used by many psychiatrists. Rorschach passed away on April 1, 1922,
at the age of 37.
What is Rorschach inkblot test?
Rorschach inkblot test, also termed as inkblot test, is used to examine a persons
emotional and personality characteristics. It is primarily a psychological test
considered especially with patients who are reluctant to express their thoughts or
thinking processes candidly. In this test, subjects perceptions of inkblots are recorded
and then examined using complex algorithms and psychological interpretation. In
simple terms, Rorschach inkblot test helps in detecting thought disorder of a person.
Microsofts Kinect to aid deaf users
November 7, 2013
Microsofts research team is working to advance Kinect technology, known for its
adeptness at reading hand and body movements, to make it capable of reading sign
language and translate into its motion-sensing vocabulary to help the deaf users. The
company is using the Xbox 360 gaming peripheral to read sign language from deaf
users, and translate it into spoken text.
How the Kinect translator can help?
The technology can convert sign language into words spoken by a computer and vice-
versa. A non-deaf user can speak or type words into the Kinect translator. The system
will then motion the words in sign language using a virtual avatar shown on a display.
In early attempts to make such a device, researchers used cameras, and even digital
gloves, to capture sign language gestures. But these devices are very costly. In
contrast, the Kinect is a much cheaper and affordable choice.
Microsoft Research is working on this project in collaboration with the Chinese
Academy of Sciences, and Beijing Union University. So far, the Kinect translator can
recognize 370 of the most popular words in Chinese Sign Language, and American
Sign Language.
It is not yet certain when this technology will come in the market. Microsoft is still
working on improving the language recognition technology, and it needs to expand the
vocabulary of sign language the system recognizes to make it ready for its launch in the
market.
MEA launches Passport Seva mobile app for Windows & Apple platforms
November 7, 2013
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has launched its Passport Sewa mobile
application for Windows and Apple iOS platforms. The Ministry is encouraged by the
public response it received for apps android version it had released in March this year.
What is the use of Passport Sewa mobile application?
The app provides passport-related information on the smartphones. It is an extended
service of the Passport Seva Project, implemented in Public-Private-Partnership mode
with IT services major Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
mPassport Seva provides an array of services such as status tracking, locating a
passport office and other general information.

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With the help of this application, users can have information on various steps involved
to obtain a passport related service and related phone numbers in case of queries or
concerns. It also enables them to search for a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or District
Passport Cell (DPC) in a district where a passport application can be submitted. This
can also be searched based on PIN code. For certain states and districts, the users can
search for police stations as well.
Indian citizens overseas who apply for a passport service in Indian Missions/Posts
abroad can also access this facility for searching address and other relevant information.
The fee calculator feature of the app facilitates users to find out the applicable fee based
on the service and mode of submission. The app will also enable users to track the
status of their passport applications by providing the file number and date of birth.
Pakistan test-fires Hatf IX (Nasr) successfully
November 7, 2013
Pakistan successfully test-fired surface-to-surface short-range Hatf IX (Nasr) missile
as part of efforts to strengthen its nuclear arsenal. The test was conducted with
successive launches of 4 x missiles (Salvo) from a multi tube launcher.
Nasr, with a range of 60 Kilometer and in-flight maneuver capability, is a quick
response system, with shoot and scoot features. It contributes to the full spectrum
detterence against threats. Pakistans full spectrum deterrence is meant to counter
Indias purported Cold Start Doctrine.
What is Cod Start Doctrine of India?
Cod Start Doctrine is a military strategy developed by the Indian Armed Forces for
use in a possible war with Pakistan. It involves the various branches of Indias military
conducting offensive operations as part of unified battle groups. The Cold Start doctrine
is intended to allow Indias conventional forces to perform holding attacks in order to
prevent a nuclear retaliation from Pakistan in case of a conflict. The doctrine is intended
to allow Indias conventional forces to perform swift and sudden attacks on Pakistan
before international pressure could come to bear on India and before the Pakistani
military could react within the first 72 hours of a conflict.
About Hatf IX (Nasr):
Pakistans surface-to-surface missile
Short-range of 60 km
Specifically designed to defeat Anti-Tactical Missile Defence Systems of all
kinds
Capable of carrying nuclear warheads
Indian Navy inducts first fully indigenous Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers
November 7, 2013
Indian Navy inducted the first fully indigenous Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers (AJT)
manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at INS Dega in Vishakhapatnam.
About Hawk AJT
Hawk AJT is a dual seat multi-purpose aircraft powered by a single Rolls Royce Adour
Mk.871 engine. The AJT is primarily used for basic, advanced and weapons training of
the pilots. The aircraft can be used as a ground attack aircraft or for air defence. It has
superb flying characteristics with good stability, and has the capability to be flown at
night and can perform a wide range of aerobatic manoeuvres.



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Mars nerve centre moves to ISTRAC
November 6, 2013
After putting the Indias maiden spacecraft to Mars into space from the Satish Dhawan
Space Centre at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, the nerve centre of the ongoing Mars
Orbiter Mission (MOM) has been shifted to the Bangalore-based tracking
centre,ISTRAC (ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command network).
What is the role of ISTRAC?
ISTRAC is responsible for providing Space Operation services that include spacecraft
control, TTC support services and other related projects and services, for the launch
vehicle and low earth orbiting spacecraft and deep space missions of ISRO and other
space agencies around the world. Development of RADAR systems for tracking &
atmospheric applications and Establishment of Ground Segment Network for Indian
Regional Navigation Satellite System of ISRO are the additional responsibilities of
ISTRAC. In the ongoing MOM, ISTRAC will communicate with the spacecraft, correct
its course and command it throughout the life of the spacecraft.
Upcoming Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) events:
Between November 7 and December 1, ISTRAC would progressively stretch one end
of the ellipse (at the apogee or farthest point from Earth) through orbit raising
manoeuvres. By December 1, the spacecraft must be put on the path to Mars. In the
meantime ISTRAC must raise the spacecrafts apogee to over a lakh km.
ISTRACs two large antennas, of 18-metre and 32-m diameter, located at the Indian
Deep Space Network at Byalalu, will have a significant role. As the mission proceeds,
ISRO will also get position data from NASAs Deep Space Network through its three
stations located in Canberra, Madrid and Goldstone on the U.S. West Coast.
Bangladesh allows commercial cultivation of Bt Brinjal
November 5, 2013
The Government of Bangladesh has given nod to the commercial cultivation of
transgenic Bt brinjal, making it the first South Asian country to cultivate the
genetically modified food crop.
As per Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), the government has
approved four Bt brinjal varieties (Bt begun-1, 2, 3 and 4) for limited scale cultivation
with some caveats. These varieties had been developed by BARI using Indian firm
Mahycos proprietary gene construct technology. Mahyco had transferred its Bt brinjal
technology to BARI in 2005-06 through a USAID-funded and Cornell University-
managed Agricultural Biotechnology Support Project.
What is Bt brinjal?
Bt brinjal is a genetically modified transgenic variety of brinjal. It contains a foreign
Cry1Ac gene derived from a soil bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This gene
synthesises a protein toxic to the fruit and shoot borer (FSB), a damaging pest. The
gene endows the crop a built-in resistance to FSB, reducing dependence on spraying
pesticides.
Indias concerns over Bt Brinjal
There are apprehensions among the environmentalists in India who fear that, given the
porosity of Indo-Bangladesh border, the transgenic crop could leak into Indias
environment. They have requested the Government to take all measures to safeguard
food and seed supply, apart from bio-diversity. Requests have also been sent to
Environment Ministry to take all steps to prohibit any illegal or unintentional transfer of

Jp Singh Page 61

Bt brinjal or seeds through the border with Bangladesh. Environmentalists have written
to the Ministry urging THE Indian government to explore all options under the
Cartagena Protocol to ensure that Bangladesh takes all measures to ensure that our
diversity here is safeguarded from any trans-boundary movement of this GM food crop.
Indias Mangalyaan blasts off for 300-day odyssey to Red Planet
November 5, 2013
Indias ambitious Mars mission, orbiter Mangalyaan lifted off into space from
Sriharikota spaceport, starting its 300-day voyage to study the Red Planets atmosphere.
The 350-tonne rocket carrying the 1,340-kg spacecraft was launched from the space
facility on November 5, 2013 at 2.38pm as scheduled.
Further Activities:
The rocket will place the spacecraft into an elliptic parking orbit in an hour after the
launch. After this, the spacecraft will perform a number of technical maneuvers and
short burns to elevate its orbit before it catapults toward Mars.
After travelling around 780 million km, the spacecraft will reach Mars in September
2014, making India the only Asian country to reach Mars with a programme designed
to demonstrate its low-cost space technology.
About Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) has been named Mangalyan
Launched onboard PSLV C25 on November 5, 2013 at 14:38 hours from the first
launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.
Indias first interplanetary mission to planet Mars with an orbiter craft designed
to orbit Mars in an elliptical orbit.
It will reach Martian transfer trajectory in September 2014. Subsequently, it is
planned to enter into a 372 km by 80000 km elliptical orbit around Mars.
Objectives of Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The main objectives of the Mars mission are to showcase Indias technological
prowess to send a satellite to orbit around Mars and conduct important
experiments such as looking for signs of life, take pictures of the red planet and
study Martian environment.
To develop the technologies required for design, planning, management and
operations of an interplanetary mission.
Design and realisation of a Mars orbiter with a capability to survive and perform
Earth bound manoeuvres, cruise phase of 300 days, Mars orbit insertion or
capture.
Deep space communication, navigation, mission planning and management.
Incorporate autonomous features to handle contingency situations.
Exploration of Mars surface features, morphology, mineralogy and Martian
atmosphere by indigenous scientific instruments.
Key Payloads on PSLV C25:
1. Lyman Alpha Photometer (LAP)
2. Methane Sensor for Mars (MSM)
3. Mars Exospheric Neutral Composition Analyser (MENCA)
4. Mars Colour Camera (MCC)
5. Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometre (TIS)



Jp Singh Page 62

Robocoin: Worlds first Bitcoin ATM unveiled in Vancouver, Canada
November 2, 2013
The worlds first Bitcoin ATM machine which can transact digital currency Bitcoins -
for any official currency has been unveiled in Vancouver, Canada.
The ATM named Robocoin allows users to buy or sell the digital currency known as
bitcoins. The ATM in Vancouver is operated by Las Vegas-based Robocoin and
Vancouver-based Bitcoiniacs.
What is Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is a virtual currency that is unregulated by any central bank or government,
but still works for purchasing goods and services from retailers willing to accept it. It
can also be traded on an open market that fluctuates much like a stock market. Bitcoin
is a distributed peer-to-peer digital currency that functions without the inter-mediation
of any central authority. Bitcoin is also called a cryptocurrency since it
is decentralized and uses cryptography to prevent double-spending, a significant
challenge inherent to digital currencies.
Pragati: Indias newly developed surface-to-surface missile
November 2, 2013
DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organization) has developed a new
tactical surface-to-surface missile Pragati which has a range between 60-170 km. India
will offer the missile to friendly nations.
The Pragati missile is based on the Prahaar missile developed by the DRDO for the
Army. The missile was the main exhibit of the DRDO which is showcasing an array of
indigenous weapons at the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition
(ADEX 2013).
Besides Pragati tactical missile, DRDO showcased, Akash missile system and
Tejas LCA and its variants. The LCA is a DRDO project which is yet to be
accomplished and the aircraft has not been inducted by the IAF as yet.
Kepler 78b: Newly discovered planet
November 2, 2013
Astronomers have discovered a new planet called Kepler 78b which has a similar mass
and density to that of Earth. The planet revolves around a star 400 light years away. It is
composed mostly of rock and iron, very similar to our own planet. It is located very
close to its host star which is 1/100
th
of the distance between the Earth and the Sun.
However, due to its high temperature ranging from 2000 C to 2800 C it is not possible
for the planet to support any form of life.
The planet belongs to a new class of ultrashort period planets which complete one
revolution of their host star in less than 12 hours.
ISRO conducts successful test run of Mars Orbiter Mission
November 2, 2013
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) performed a glitch free rehearsal of
Indias first mission to the Red Planet designated the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) at
Sriharikota centre. The MOM is scheduled for launch at 2.38pm on November 5, 2013.
As per ISRO, the dry run simulated the entire command sequence of the countdown. It
demonstrated the mission readiness. Except for fuel filling all the activities 8-10 hours
prior to the lift-off of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL were simulated without a
snag. The trials most significant aspect was the retraction of the mobile service tower
and bringing it back which was performed impeccably.

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If everything goes well, the final 56.5-half countdown will start at 6am on November 3,
2013. To involve the public, a countdown clock has been included on the MOMs
Facebook page.
US space agency NASA also plans to launch Mars Atmosphere and Volatile
Evolution (MAVEN) mission which is slated for launch on November 18, 2013 and
both MOM and MAVEN are expected to arrive at the Red Planet at the same time in
September 2014.
About Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) has been named Mangalyan
To be launched onboard PSLV C25 on November 5, 2013 at 14:36 hours from
the first launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.
Indias first interplanetary mission to planet Mars with an orbiter craft designed
to orbit Mars in an elliptical orbit.
It will reach Martian transfer trajectory in September 2014. Subsequently, it is
planned to enter into a 372 km by 80000 km elliptical orbit around Mars.
Objectives of Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The main objectives of the Mars mission are to showcase Indias technological
prowess to send a satellite to orbit around Mars and conduct important
experiments such as looking for signs of life, take pictures of the red planet and
study Martian environment.
To develop the technologies required for design, planning, management and
operations of an interplanetary mission.
Design and realisation of a Mars orbiter with a capability to survive and perform
Earth bound manoeuvres, cruise phase of 300 days, Mars orbit insertion or
capture.
Deep space communication, navigation, mission planning and management.
Incorporate autonomous features to handle contingency situations.
Exploration of Mars surface features, morphology, mineralogy and Martian
atmosphere by indigenous scientific instruments.
Key Payloads on PSLV C25:
Lyman Alpha Photometer (LAP)
Methane Sensor for Mars (MSM)
Mars Exospheric Neutral Composition Analyser (MENCA)
Mars Colour Camera (MCC)
Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometre (TIS)
Researchers discover mini-neural computer in the brain
October 30, 2013
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered that
dendrites, the branch-like projections of neurons, act as mini-neural computers by
actively processing information to multiply the brains computing power.
They have shown that dendrites, which were thought to be passive wiring in the brain,
do more than relay information from one neuron to the next.
What are the findings by the University of North Carolina?
Conventionally, axons are where neurons generate electrical spikes, but many of the
same molecules that support axonal spikes are also present in the dendrites. Earlier
research using dissected brain tissue had shown that dendrites can use those molecules

Jp Singh Page 64

to generate electrical spikes themselves, but it was unclear whether normal brain
activity involved those dendritic spikes.
In the latest research, it has been found that dendrites effectively act as mini-neural
computers, actively processing neuronal input signals themselves. In experiments on
mice, when the animals viewed visual stimuli on a computer screen, the researchers saw
an unusual pattern of electrical signals bursts of spikes in the dendrite. This
uncovered that dendrites fired spikes while other parts of the neuron did not, meaning
that the spikes were the result of local processing within the dendrites. This made the
researchers conclude that dendrites are not passive integrators of sensory-driven input;
they seem to be a computational unit as well.
How these findings may the researchers from the University of North Carolina
may help?
The findings could not only change the long-standing scientific models explaining how
neural circuitry functions in the brain, but could also help scientists to better understand
neurological disorders.
z8_GND_5296: New galaxy most distant yet discovered
October 26, 2013
Scientists have discovered the most distant galaxy yet which is located at about 30
billion light-years away. It was detected using the Hubble Space Telescope. The distant
galaxy has been named z8_GND_5296.
How did the astronomers calculated the distance of the most distant galaxy
z8_GND_5296?
Astronomers analysed its color to measure how far it is located from the Earth. As
Universe is expanding and everything is moving away from us, light waves are
stretched. This makes objects look redder than they actually are. Astronomers rate this
apparent colour-change on a scale that is called redshift. They found that this galaxy
has a redshift of 7.51, beating the previous record-holder, which had a redshift of 7.21.
This makes it the most distant galaxy ever found.
Speed of the superfast trains to be enhanced to 160-200 kmph: Indian Railways
October 25, 2013
The Railway Board announced that the Indian Railways decided to increase the speed
of the superfast trains to 160-200 kmph.
The current superfast trains of India- Rajdhanis, Shatabdis and Durontos will get an
increase in the speed. Besides this, the Indian Railways planned to enhance the
technical capability of the present infrastructure.
Initially, the Shatabdi routes from Delhi to Bhopal and Lucknow will undergo an
increase in speed. Thereafter, this will be implemented to Duronto and Rajdhani.
Following this, the superfast trains of India will run at the semi high speeds before the
year 2017.
Although India has one of the largest rail networks in the world, there are not many
high-speed rail lines which can support the speed of 200 kmph or more. A number
of high speed corridors were proposed, but they have not been realized. At present,
Bhopal-Delhi Shatabdi Express is the fastest train of India with the top speed of 150
kmph.




Jp Singh Page 65

Day set for Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan
October 25, 2013
As per the announcement by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indias first
mission to Mars -Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) will be launched on November 5,
2013 from Sriharikota space station.
About Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) has been named Mangalyan
To be launched onboard PSLV C25 on November 5, 2013 at 14:36 hours from
the first launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.
Indias first interplanetary mission to planet Mars with an orbiter craft designed
to orbit Mars in an elliptical orbit.
It will reach Martian transfer trajectory in September 2014. Subsequently, it is
planned to enter into a 372 km by 80000 km elliptical orbit around Mars.
Objectives of Indias Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Mangalyan:
The main objectives of the Mars mission are to showcase Indias technological
prowess to send a satellite to orbit around Mars and conduct important
experiments such as looking for signs of life, take pictures of the red planet and
study Martian environment.
To develop the technologies required for design, planning, management and
operations of an interplanetary mission.
Design and realisation of a Mars orbiter with a capability to survive and perform
Earth bound manoeuvres, cruise phase of 300 days, Mars orbit insertion or
capture.
Deep space communication, navigation, mission planning and management.
Incorporate autonomous features to handle contingency situations.
Exploration of Mars surface features, morphology, mineralogy and Martian
atmosphere by indigenous scientific instruments.
Key Payloads on PSLV C25:
Lyman Alpha Photometer (LAP)
Methane Sensor for Mars (MSM)
Mars Exospheric Neutral Composition Analyser (MENCA)
Mars Colour Camera (MCC)
Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometre (TIS)
First known tilted planetary system discovered by NASA
October 24, 2013
The US space agency NASAs Kepler space telescope discovered the first known tilted
planetary system in the Space which is angled 45 degrees to the line of sight from
Earth. The planetary system features two inner planets and one outer planet orbiting at a
sharp tilt to their red giant host star called Kepler-56.
The host star is more than four times the radius of our Sun. Its mass is also 30% more
than our Sun. It is located at about 3000 light years from Earth.
These discoveries would allow scientists to get a detailed view of a distant system that
provides a new and critical test of our understanding of the structure of these solar
systems.




Jp Singh Page 66

Frank: Worlds first complete bionic man
October 22, 2013
What is Frank (Frankenstein) ?
Researchers from Zurich (Switzerland) have revealed the worlds first walking, talking
bionic man called Frank, short for Frankenstein
Researchers have engineered the worlds first robot human or Bionic man made entirely
of prosthetic parts. It can walk, talk and has a beating heart. The robot has been
developed by Roboticists Rich Walker and Matthew Godden of Shadow Robot Co in
England.
To develop the Bionic man, scientists assembled prosthetic body parts and artificial
organs donated by laboratories around the world.
Key features of the complete Bionic Man Frank (Frankenstein):
6 feet tall
Fully functioning circulatory system
Beating heart and lungs
28 artificial body parts and synthetic organs.
Artificial organs including an artificial heart, blood, lungs (and windpipe),
pancreas, spleen, kidney and functional circulatory system.
Fitted with a cochlear implant, speech recognition and speech production
systems.
Equipped with a sophisticated chatbot programme that can talk.
Robotic ankles and feet enable it to move
Face is made of silicone and is a replica of Dr Meyers
Fitted with 200 processors
70 circuit boards and 26 individual motors
Wears a robotic exoskeleton dubbed Rex to support its prosthetics legs.
However, the robot human lacks a few organs including liver, stomach and
intestines, which are too complex to replicate in a lab.
Brain can imitate certain functions of the human brain and has a retinal
prosthesis.
Development cost: nearly $1 million.
Frank (short for Frankenstein) has been named after Victor Frankenstein in Mary
Shelleys 1818 novel
Indias largest Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower unveiled at Mumbai Airport
October 21, 2013
Indias largest 84-meter tall Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower of India was inaugurated
outside the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai. It is spread over an
area of 2800 square meter area and is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology
such as electronic flight strips that can reduce the workload of controllers and enhance
safety and capacity of the airport.
The height of the ATC tower will facilitate all the controllers in having easy and non-
stop view of complete operational area. It will also help in optimizing the separation of
the air traffic, while boosting the traffic management capacity at the same time.
Note: India is the 9
th
largest aviation market of the world and has the traffic growth of
10% annually.



Jp Singh Page 67

Latest telecom subscriber database released by TRAI
October 17, 2013
Indias telecom subscriber base expanded marginally to reach 90.44 crore in July 2013,
as per latest telecom subscription data from TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of
India).
Total number of subscribers: 904.46 million
Net addition: 1.37 million subscribers during July
Subscriber base from Urban areas: 548.85 million
Subscriber base from Rural areas: 355.60 million
Teledensity: 73.54 (Out of this urban: 60.68% and rural: 39.32%)
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) requests: 97.82 million at end of July 2013
(was 95.59 million at June 2013 end)
Chemistry Nobel 2013 to Levitt, Karplus and Warshel
October 11, 2013
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry for 2013 will be shared by Michael Levitt, a British
and US citizen, US-Austrian Martin Karplus and US-Israeli Arieh Warshel. As per
Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences who announces the names for the awards, the
Nobel Laureates in Chemistry 2013 have made it possible to map the mysterious ways
of chemistry by using computers.
What are the Nobel winning contributions of Levitt, Karplus and Warshel?
The trio has been credited for the development of multi scale models for complex
chemical systems.
They devised computer simulations to understand chemical processes. Their works laid
the foundations for new kinds of pharmaceuticals and contributed to exploring multiple
options in cyber space.
Nobel physics Prize 2013 goes to Englert and Higgs
October 11, 2013
The Nobel Prize in physics has been announced to be given to physicists Francois
Englert of Belgium and Peter Higgs of Britain for their theoretical discoveries on
how subatomic particles acquire mass.
What is the special contribution of Englert and Higgs to physics?
Both the scientists have been credited for their theoretical works on Higgs boson which
they theorized in 1960s. They proposed a mechanism to explain why the most basic
building blocks of the Universe have mass. Their theories were confirmed last year by
the discovery of the so-called Higgs particle or God-particle, also known as the
Higgs boson, at the famous CERN(European Organization for Nuclear
Research) laboratory in Geneva. But it would still take decades for the scientists at
CERN to confirm its existence.
Prithvi-II missile test fired successfully from Odisha
October 11, 2013
India successfully test-fired its indigenously built nuclear-capable Prithvi-II
missile with a strike range of 350km from a test range at Chandipur, Odisha. The
missile was randomly chosen from the production stock and the total launch activities
were carried out by the specially formed Strategic Forces Command (SFC) and
monitored by the scientists of DRDO as part of a practice drill.
About Prithvi-II Missile

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Indigenously developed by DRDO as the first missile to be developed under
Indias prestigious IGMDP (Integrated Guided Missile Development
Program)
Nuclear capable
350 km strike range
Can carry 500kg to 1000kg of warheads
Liquid propulsion twine engines
Advanced inertial guidance system with manoeuvering trajectory
Inducted into Indias Strategic Forces Command in 2003
A4AI: Alliance aimed at bringing down cost of internet access launched
October 8, 2013
A number of government bodies, NGOs and private companies have formed a coalition
named Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) which aims at reducing the cost
of internet access worldwide. The coalition will push for policy and regulatory
reforms to bring down the cost of bandwidth in developing and poor countries, where
cost of internet access remains exorbitant.
What is the aim of A4AI (Alliance for Affordable Internet)?
The cost of having broadband connection and internet access is very high in developing
countries compared to developed ones. The coalition of A4AI aims to reduce the cost
by advocating for open, competitive and innovative broadband markets to help access
prices fall to below 5% of monthly income worldwide, a target set by the UN
Broadband Commission. It this goal is met then the two-thirds of the world that is
presently not connected to the internet will be online. According to International
Telecommunication Union (ITU), by 2012, fixed-broadband prices represented 1.7% of
monthly gross national income in developed countries. In developing countries, the cost
of broadband connection accounts for 30.1% of average monthly income.
Who are the sponsors to A4AI (Alliance for Affordable Internet)?
The global sponsors of the A4AI are Google, UK Department for International
Development, US Agency for International Development and Omidyar Network, a firm
that often invests in non-profit entities. Besides these, Intel, Microsoft, Facebook,
Cisco, Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation, the US State
Department and several other regional and international bodies are also members of
A4AI. From India, Bangalore-based Centre for Internet and Society (CIS) is part of the
alliance.

Diesel exhaust disrupt honeybees ability to locate flowers
October 8, 2013
As per a latest research by a team of researchers at University of Southampton,
exposure to common air pollutants found in diesel exhaust pollution can affect the
ability of honeybees to recognize floral odors.
Using floral odors, the honeybees locate, identify and recognize the flowers from which
they forage. The study found that diesel exhaust fumes change the profile of flora odor.
These alterations may affect honeybees foraging efficiency and, ultimately, could
affect pollination and thus global food security.
What did the research find?
The researchers found that when the diesel exhaust (particularly the NOx component)
mixed with the chemicals found in the odour of oil rapeseed flowers, the profile of the

Jp Singh Page 69

odors changed completely. When the researchers used the same process with NOx
gases (nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide), which is found in diesel exhaust, they saw the
same outcome, showing that NOx was a key facilitator in how and why the odours
profile was changed. The changed chemical mix was then shown to honeybees, which
could not recognize it.
How honeybees inability to recognize flower odor could affect us?
When honeybees collect nectar from various flowers they also pollinate them.
Honeybee pollination can significantly increase the yield of crops and they are vital to
the worlds economy: 430 million a year to the UK alone. However to forage
effectively they need to be able to learn and recognize the plants. The results indicate
that NOx gases particularly nitrogen dioxide may be capable of disrupting the
odour recognition process that honeybees rely on for locating floral food resources.
Acidification and overexploitation pushing marine life to mass extinction: IPSO
October 5, 2013
As per a report released by the International Programme on the State of the Ocean
(IPSO) the increasing acidification of the oceans due to excessive absorption of carbon
dioxide released mainly from burning fossil fuels and overfishing is exposing marine
organisms to intolerable evolutionary pressure which may lead to their mass extinction.
As per the report:
The oceans are more acidic now than they have been for at least 300 million
years which may result into a mass extinction of key species. Carbon dioxide in
the atmosphere is absorbed by the seas at least a third of the carbon that
humans have released has been dissolved in this way.
In absorbing carbon and heat from the atmosphere, the worlds oceans have
shielded humans from the worst effects of global warming
Overfishing and pollution are also imperilling marine life, on which billions of
people depend for their nutrition and livelihood.
This acidification is unprecedented in the Earths known history which has
exposed organisms to intolerable evolutionary pressure.
Increased acidity is specially impacting coral as it dissolves the calcium
carbonate skeletons that form the structure of reefs, and rising temperatures lead
to bleaching where the corals lose symbiotic algae they rely on.
Current efforts of the world governments to curb carbon emissions are
insufficient to save many reefs.
There is a time lag of several decades between the carbon being emitted and the
effects on seas, meaning further acidification and warming of the oceans are
inevitable, even if emissions are drastically reduced.
Corals are vital to the health of fisheries, because they act as nurseries to young
fish and smaller species that provide food for bigger ones.
The current ocean acidification is the highest for 300 million years from
geological records.
Governments should take measures to limit carbon concentrations in the
atmosphere to no more than 450 parts per million of carbon dioxide equivalent.
At least 70% of the worlds fish populations are overexploited. To tackle this,
local communities should be given more control over their fisheries and
favouring small-scale operators over large commercial vessels.


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Accounts of 2.9 million Adobe customers compromised
October 5, 2013
The network of the US based software maker Adobe Systems which makes software
such as Photoshop, Reader and Creative Cloud, was hacked by cyber attackers exposing
financial information of its 2.9 million customers.
The attackers accessed Adobe customer IDs, encrypted passwords, encrypted credit or
debit card numbers, expiration dates and other information relating to customer orders.
The company is informing customers whose credit or debit card information it believes
to be involved in the incident and is resetting relevant customer passwords to prevent
unauthorized access to Adobe ID accounts. It has also notified the banks processing
customer payments for Adobe.
Supreme Court directs government to set up mechanism to monitor clinical trial of
untested drugs
October 4, 2013
The Supreme Court directed government to put in place a mechanism to monitor the
clinical trials of untested drugs on humans.
The Centre has been directed by the court to convene a meeting of Chief Secretaries or
Health Secretaries of all the states to frame a law for regulation of clinical trials of
drugs by multinational pharma companies.
The apex court directive came during a hearing of a PIL filed by an NGO which alleged
large-scale clinical drug trials across the country by various pharmaceutical firms using
Indian citizens as guinea pigs in those tests. The NGO had alleged that the clinical trials
by several pharmaceutical firms were conducted indiscriminately in various states.
Previously, the court had said that uncontrolled clinical trial of drugs by multinational
companies was creating havoc and lambasted the Centre for failing to stop the
rackets which caused deaths. It had earlier ordered that all drug trials will be done
under the supervision of the Union Health Secretary. The Centre had admitted that
2,644 people died during clinical trials of 475 new drugs during the period of 2005 to
2012
Google updates its search engine with Hummingbird
October 2, 2013 1 Comment
Google has modified its Internet search engine to give better answers to the increasingly
complex queries posed by Web surfers. The change has come as part of an update
called Hummingbird that Google Inc. has gradually rolled out in the past month
without revealing the modifications.
Why Google updated its search engine with Hummingbird?
As per Google, Hummingbird is aimed at giving Googles search engine a better grasp
at understanding concepts instead of mere words. Increased reliance on the search
engine have made people to enter even lengthy questions into the search box instead of
just a few words related to specific topics.
How could Hummingbird affect the websites?
The alteration in the search engines could make a major impact on traffic to websites.
As per experts, Hummingbird brings the most dramatic alterations to Googles search
engine since it revised the way it indexes websites 3 years ago as part of a redesign
called Caffeine. The redesign is likely to affect the analysis of about 90% of the
search requests that Google receives.

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Any rearrangement of Googles search rankings can have dramatic ramifications
because they steer majority of the Internets traffic. Google directs about 66% of search
requests in the U.S. and its share is even bigger in some parts of Europe. The changes
could also escalate the price of Google ads tied to search requests if websites whose
rankings are lowered under the new system feel they have to buy the marketing
messages to attract traffic. Google generates most of its revenue from the search ads
and other commercial pitches related to Web content. Its revenue is expected to
approach $60 billion this year.
TomTato: Plant which produces potato and tomato unveiled in UK
October 2, 2013
A plant that produces both tomatoes and potatoes was launched in the UK market. The
plant named The TomTato has been developed by the horticultural mail order company
Thompson & Morgan. TomTato has the capability of growing over 500 sweet cherry
tomatoes and also the white potatoes.
TomTato is not a result of genetic engineering, but it has been created by a technique
known as grafting.
Many such plants had been created before but taste had previously been a problem. It is
for the very first time such plants have been produced commercially.
How the TOMTATO is made?
1. Tomatoes and potatoes can be grafted together because they are members of the
same plant family, Solanceae or nightshade, which also includes aubergines and
chillies.
2. A piece of a size of a pinhead is sliced from each plant, checked for viruses and
grown seperately ingel and then compost. Once they are 2in tall, their stems are
cut at an ideticak angle so they can be grafted to each other.
3. The lower end of the potato, plant, containing the roots, and the top section of the
tomato plant, which will bear fruit, are clipped together for about a week until a
natural join forms.
TRAI recommends pan-India Mobile Number Portability in 6 months
October 1, 2013
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommended implementation of
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) across the country within 6 months. On
implementation, this service will allow users to retain their mobile numbers even when
they change their service area. Currently, the MNP is available within the same service
area. The regulator suggested that service providers be given six months time to
implement full MNP in the country.
What is Mobile Number Portability?
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) enables mobile telephone users to retain their
mobile telephone numbers when changing from one mobile network operator to
another.
Control-Alt-Delete was a mistake, admits Bill Gates
October 1, 2013
Bill Gates, billionaire and co-founder of Microsoft, has admitted for the first time that
using the key combination of Control-Alt-Delete to log into a PC was a mistake. The
awkward combination which is also known as three-finger salute has been a
characteristic of the Windows operating system since the earliest days of personal
computers.

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What is the use of Control-Alt-Delete combination?
The function of the key combination Control-Alt-Delete differs depending on the
context but it generally interrupts or facilitates interrupting a function. For instance, in
pre-boot environment (before an operating system starts) or in DOS, Windows 3.0 and
earlier version of Windows or OS/2, the key combination reboots the computer. Starting
with Windows 3.1, the command invokes a task manager or security related component
that facilitates ending a Windows session.

Bill proposed to curb unethical practices in biomedical, health research
October 1, 2013
Government has proposed Biomedical and Health Research Regulation Bill, 2013 in
order to regulate biomedical and health research involving human participants, whether
in conventional areas, or in new evolving specialized fields. The Bill seeks to ensure
ethical research in all institution with proper care and a compensation policy for human
participants. With this Bill, all research on human participants will come under the
government scanner by way of the proposed Biomedical and Health Research
Authority.
Some key points about Biomedical and Health Research Regulation Bill, 2013:
The Bill seeks to provide ways to safeguard ethical values in accordance with
both local cultural values and international benchmarks so as to generate,
maintain and reinstate public trust in research.
As per the Bill, a Biomedical and Health Research Authority will be set up
and it will be mandatory to register all ethics committees in research institutions,
colleges, universities and other organizations involved in research with the
Authority.
The Biomedical and Health Research Authority will register, monitor and
evaluate the performance of ethics committee, develop performance appraisal
systems and norms and mechanisms for implementing transparency and
accountability; and assess the need for providing protection to vulnerable
sections.
The Bill will confer statutory powers on the Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical
Research on Human Subjects, drafted in 2000 by the ICMRs Central Ethics
Committee on Human Research, under the chairmanship of the former Chief
Justice of India, Justice M. N. Venkatachaliah. The guidelines were revised in
2006.
Human participants in a research will be entitled to due remuneration,
compensation or reimbursement for the time lost, besides reimbursement of
travelling and other incidental expenses incurred in connection with his
participation in research.
The ethics committee will decide the amount and it will also ensure that the
amount is not such which can be considered as inducement for participation in
research.
The investigator and the institution shall take necessary steps to protect the
interest of special or vulnerable groups while the ethics panel shall ensure that
research participants are selected by the investigator in such a way that the
burden and benefits are equally distributed.

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Consent of the human participant will be mandatory for using human biological
materials or data.
Approval from the ethics committee will be mandatory for using human
biological materials or data for the primary intended purpose. The ethics panel
will separately examine any request for secondary use of the human biological
material or data.
Bio-banking of the human biological material will not be allowed without
consent of the human participant which should be regulated by the specific
principles of bio-banking.
Researcher shall maintain strict confidentiality of all research data which might
lead to identification of the individual participant to avoid any consequent
stigmatization and discrimination unless he/she is under obligation to reveal the
information to any official or the government department concerned under the
provisions of any law.
The investigator must obtain voluntary, documented, informed consent of
individual participants after being fully informed of his involvement in the
research and also to withdraw the consent given earlier.
In case of an individual who is not capable of giving informed consent, for any
reason, the consent of his legal guardian or legally authorized representative will
have to be obtained.
In case of investigation/study involving a group or community, legally acceptable
representative or culturally appropriate authority of the group or community
concerned may be contacted for permission.
In no case shall a collective community agreement or the permission of a
community leader or other authority be considered as a substitute for an
individual consent.
Clinical studies involving systematic study of new drugs, medical devices,
vaccines and cosmetics on human subjects will be out of the purview of the Bill.
Background:
The decision to bring a new law for regulation of biomedical and health research comes
in the backdrop of the report of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, pillorying the
government and the Indian Council of Medical Research for failing to prevent deaths of
adolescent tribal girls in Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat during post-marketing
surveillance of anti-cervix cancer HPV vaccine. The surveillance had been jointly
conducted by a foreign non-governmental organization, PATH, and the ICMR, and was
suspended by the Ministry following the deaths of the participants.
Currently, only clinical trials with new drugs are regulated under the Drugs and
Cosmetics Act, 1940 and this law is not applicable to the tremendous quantum of
biomedical research being carried on in universities, medical colleges and hospitals on
subjects ranging from basic sciences and clinical research to applied, operational or
behavioural research.
Nanomedicine for Blood Cancer developed
October 1, 2013
The Kochi-based Amrita Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine has
developed a nano-medicine for drug-resistant blood cancer. This invention expected to
significantly improve the treatment of drug-resistant Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
(CML), when used in combination with Imatinib, the standard drug for the disease.

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In another major invention, the institute has developed a mechanism that can
efficaciously prevent recurrence of glioma or brain tumour. This disease affects about 4
out of every 100000 people in India.
What is Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia?
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia is a form of blood cancer which affects around 2 out
of every 100000 Indians annually.
Raijin: Australias most powerful super computer unveiled
October 1, 2013
Australia unveiled its most powerful super computer Raijin in Canberra. Raijin, is
named after the Japanese God of thunder and rain. It development cost $ 45.2 million
and will cost $ 10.85 million annually to operate. On the global scale, Raijin is
considered the 27
th
most powerful computer. The supercomputer is capable of
performing the same number of calculations in an hour that 7 billion people with
calculators could perform in 20 years.
Nokia unveils smartphone with 41 megapixel camera in India
October 1, 2013
Nokia has launched the Lumia 1020 smartphone in India. It has a 41MP camera,
which makes it the smartphone with the highest megapixel in Indian market.
The phone has a Carl Zeiss lens and Nokias proprietary PureView imaging technology.
This camera also has optical image stabilization as well as six element lens and uses
oversampling technology to process images. Its lossless zooming technology enables
one to capture images first and zoom into it later without losing clarity. Photos taken by
most smartphones get pixilated upon zooming and cropping.

M60-UCD1: Densest galaxy ever discovered
October 1, 2013
Scientists have discovered the densest galaxy ever which they have named as M60-
UCD1. The galaxy was discovered using NASAs Hubble Space Telescope. Follow-up
observations were done with NASAs Chandra X-ray Observatory and ground-based
optical telescopes, including the Keck 10-metre telescope in Hawaii.
About M60-UCD1:
Ultra-compact dwarf galaxy
Found in the Virgo cluster of galaxies
Packed with an extraordinary number of stars
About 54 million light years away from our own Milky Way
Rock Wrens a species makes comeback from extinction through Conservation
Project
September 29, 2013
New Zealands Department of Conservation (DOC) project yielded positive result as
Rock Wrens, one of the oldest as well as the most distinct songbird species retuned
from extinction. The relocation project of DOC involved relocation of 41 tiny alpine
Rock Wrens from around Fiordland in the far southwest of New Zealands South Island
to Secretary Island from 2008 to 2011. Now, the number of Rock Wrens has increased
to 66.

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It is the only true alpine bird in New Zealand and one of the most ancient bird species in
the world which evolved from a species present more than 80 million years ago. The
Rock Wren and the Rifleman are the only two wren species surviving today.
Indian-origin scientist discovers universal flu vaccine
September 29, 2013
A team of researchers led by Professor Ajit Lalvani from the National Heart and Lung
Institute at Imperial College London have discovered a new way of combating viral flu
infections. He has developed a roadmap to develop universal flu vaccine.
What is the approach to develop universal flu vaccine?
Scientists investigated why some people resist severe illnesses of influenza virus. They
found that the people who evade severe flu illnesses had more CD8 T cells in their
blood at the start of the pandemic. CD8T cells are a type of virus killing immune cell.
They concluded that a vaccine which can stimulate the body to produce more of these
cells could be effective at preventing flu viruses, including new strains that infect
humans from birds and pigs.
How CD8T cells function differently than normal antibodies?
The specific quality of CD8T cells which renders it the potential to kill different strains
of flu viruses is that it attacks the core of the virus unlike normal antibodies which
target the surface of a virus. The flu virus rapidly changes its surface which makes older
vaccine less effective. However, CD8T cells attack the core of the virus which remains
the same. So, even if the virus changes its outer structure it would not affect the
potential of CD8T cells to target them.
Dextrose Gel can help treat Hypoglycaemia in Premature Babies
September 29, 2013
As per scientists from the University of Auckland, New Zealand the dose of sugar in the
form of gel can help prevent premature babies from the risk of brain damage due to
Hypoglycaemia. This is named as Dextrose gel treatment.
During this treatment, the sugar gel should be rubbed in the inside of cheeks and it has
been found as the effective and cheapest possible way. Around 10% of premature
babies face the risk of low blood sugar level, which eventually affects them. If left
untreated, it can cause permanent damage.
As per researchers, dextrose treatment this should become the first-line treatment. The
cost of Dextrose gel treatment is merely 1 Pound per baby and is also simple to
administer in comparison with the glucose through the drip.
However, the treatment has to go through further research for implementation of the
treatment.
What is Hypoglycemia?
A medical emergency condition in which body has abnormally low levels of blood
sugar (glucose) is called as hypoglycemia. Glucose is the bodys main energy source.
Hypoglycemia is not a disease in itself; it is a sign of a health problem.

Sapien Biosciences: Indias first commercial Bio-Bank
September 29, 2013
Apollo Hospitals and health science firm Saarum Innovations have entered into a
joint venture (JV) to set up the first commercial bio bank of India named as Sapien

Jp Singh Page 76

Biosciences. The joint venture envisages creation of a sophisticated bio bank as well as
a personalised medicine company.
Sapien Biosciences consists of collections of high quality and systematically archived
human samples which can be used for new clinical and research and development
applications.
What is a Bio-bank?
A biobank is a type of biorepository that stores biological samples (usually human) for
use in research. This storehouse maintains various kinds of bio-specimens which
include purified DNA, plasma, saliva and blood. These samples are catalogued
according to genetic as well as other kinds of traits like ethnicity, blood type, gender
and age. These specimens and specimen related biological data are accessed by
researchers of various organisations and firms for their research studies.
About Sapien Biosciences
First commercial bio bank of India
JV of Apollo Hospitals and Saarum Innovations
It will leverage the pathological and diagnostic data for developing state-of-the-
art diagnostics as well as provide world class genetic risk assessment.
It will facilitate cell-related research assistance to various Pharmaceutical
companies.
It will also provide the personalized treatment to patients, which will include detection
of the genetic disposition of patients for early diagnosis of diseases.
CCEA approves Petroleum Ministrys proposal on shale gas exploration and
exploitation
September 29, 2013
The proposal of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on the policy on exploration
and exploitation of shale gas and oil by National Oil Companies (NOCs) on acreages
under the nomination regime has been approved by the Cabinet Committee on
Economic Affairs.
How the policy on exploration/exploitation of shale gas by NOCs would help?
The policy will facilitate NOCs to perform exploration and exploitation of
unconventional hydro-carbon resources particularly shale gas and oil in their already
awarded Petroleum Exploration License and Petroleum Mining Lease (PEL/PML)
acreages under the nomination regime. The policy also stipulates the terms/conditions
for guiding these activities.
Why the government is bringing a different policy for shale oil/gas?
The production requirements and profile for shale oil and gas is different from
conventional gas and oil. Therefore, there was a need of the policy in order to achieve
early development of these resources and to address issues evolving out of Exploration
& Production activities in shale gas and oil.
Earthquake forms methane spewing island off Gwadar in Pakistan
September 25, 2013
A powerful earthquake (7.7 ) that hit the Makran zone caused a methane and mud
spewing island to form off the coast of Gwadar in Balochistan province of Pakistan.
How did earthquake (7.7 ) that hit the Makran zone happen?
The sea from Gwadar to Ormara had a huge stock of frozen methane gas below the sea
bed. When there was a seismic movement the gas deposits, which expand creating high
pressure, pushed up a land mass creating which appears in the form of island. The land

Jp Singh Page 77

mass is 50 metres long, 20 to 30 metres wide and rises 10 metres above the water about
two km off the coast of Gwadar. The island is composed of soft sediment, mostly
mud, sand and rock fragments. This phenomenon was also observed in 1999 and in
2010 near Ormara, off the Hingol river where it enters the sea.
S. Korean scientists decode Genome of Tigers
September 23, 2013
Scientists from the Personal Genomics Institute in Suwon, South Korea have revealed
that they have done first ever DNA analysis of the tiger as well as four other big cats.
The DNA analysis was carried out in the project for aiding the critically-endangered
cats for their survival.
The team of scientists sequenced the genome of a Siberian tiger. They compared this
genome with the genome of white Bengal tiger, the snow leopard, the African lion and
white African lion. Scientists found shared characteristics among all these close, yet
distinct species of cats. All these species of tigers included common genes which
indicated towards extreme muscle strength as well as the ability to metabolize hyper-
carnivorous diet.
There were variants also which accounted for certain differences such as fur color. The
information from these genomes provides a diverse and crucial data source which can
be used for conservation of these tigers.
As per scientists, of the overall nine subspecies of tiger, four were already extinct in the
last century. These four extinct species included Javan, Balinese, South China and
Caspian tigers. As per estimates, at present the number of wild tigers range from just
3050 to 3950.

U.N. finds extensive use of chemical weapons in Syria
September 21, 2013
As per the report released by the U.N., the experts have found large-scale use of banned
chemical weapons in Syria. The U.N. inspectors have found clear evidence that Sarin
Gas killed hundreds of people in an attack on Ghouta near Damascus on August 21,
2013.
The attack triggered threats by the US and other western nations of a military action
against President Bashar al-Assad regime. The United States says more than 1,400
people died in Ghouta. Mr. Assad has rejected the allegations of using sarin and
blamed opposition rebels for the attack whereas Western nations say only the
government has such weapons.
Recently, the US and Russia agreed to destroy the Syrian stockpiles of chemical
weapons. A U.N.-mandated independent panel of inquiry into rights violations in the
Syria war announced separately that it was investigating 14 alleged chemical weapons
attacks in Syria. The latest findings are likely to affect the future course of action by the
UN on Syria issue. However, Russia has made it clear that it is not in favor of any
military strike against Assad regime.
Voyager 1 crosses Solar System, enters interstellar space
September 21, 2013
Voyager 1 became the first man-made object to cross the Solar System and enter into
interstellar space on August 25, 2012. The space probe is at a distance of more than 19
billion km from the Sun.
What is Voyager 1?

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Voyager 1 is a space probe launched by NASA in 1977 alongside its identical sister
probe Voyager 2 to study the outer Solar System and the interstellar medium the
physical space within a galaxy not occupied by stars or their planetary systems.
Salient facts about Voyager 1:
Flew by Jupiter in 1979 and Saturn in 1980, concluding its primary mission and
became the first spacecraft to transmit detailed images of the two planets and
their moons.
In 1990, 9.6 billion km from Earth, it turned around and clicked the entire Solar
System.
Since then it has been flying toward the edge of the Solar System at some 17
km/s, surrounded by a hot sea of charged particles called plasma.
Crossed the heliopause and entered interstellar space on August 25, 2012.
Patna to build a Science City: Nitish Kumar
September 20, 2013
With an aim to nurture scientific temper among children, the Bihar government has
decided to build a Science City with state-of-the-art technology.
The Science City would cost Rs. 500 crore and is proposed to be built on 15 acres of
land, near the Moin-Ul-Haq Stadium in Patna. The firm Lord Cultural Associate has
been entrusted with the task of preparing the concept for the city. A village dedicated to
alternative energy sources would also be part of this scientific centre.
Researchers develop worlds first self-healing polymer
September 18, 2013
The researchers, from the CIDETEC Centre for Electrochemical Technologies in San
Sebastian, Spain have created the worlds first self-healing polymer that spontaneously
and independently repairs itself without any intervention.
How does the self-healing polymer work?
The scientists developed the self-healing thermoset elastomers from common polymeric
starting materials using a simple and inexpensive approach. A double decomposition
reaction of aromatic disulphides, which naturally exchange at room temperature, causes
the regeneration. The polymer behaves as a Velcro-like sealant or adhesive, displaying
an impressive 97% healing efficiency in just 2 hours.
What could be the use of self-healing polymer?
The new material could be used to improve the security and lifetime of plastic parts in
everyday products such as electrical components, cars and even houses

South East Asian countries aim to get rid of Measles by 2020: WHO
September 17, 2013
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), South East Asian countries have set a
target to wipe out measles and control rubella and congenital syndrome by the year
2020. The effort is estimated to cost $ 800 million.
What is the status of measles in South East Asia region?
An estimated 8 million children are vulnerable against measles in South East Asia
region as they are not vaccinated against the disease. Measles accounted for the death of
over 70,700 children in the region in 2011, which was about 45% of global measles
deaths.



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What is measles?
Measles is an infection of the respiratory system caused by a virus, specifically
a paramyxovirus of the genus Morbillivirus which are enveloped, single-stranded,
negative-sense RNA viruses.
Symptoms: Fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a
generalized, maculopapular, erythematous rash. The disease is contracted by children
with low immunity and can cause acute respiratory problems, diarrhoea and pneumonia.
It can also result in disabilities such as visual impairment.
Transmission: Through respiration (contact with fluids from an infected persons nose
and mouth, either directly or through aerosol transmission).
What is the status of measles in India?
Although the expansion of vaccine coverage India has significantly reduced the child
mortality due measles, the disease continues to remain a major cause of death among
children, claiming between 50,000 to 100,000 lives every year. At present, only 70% of
children in the country are protected against it.
How can measles be prevented?
Measles can be prevented by a single dose of vaccine if given when the child is between
9 and 12 months.
China unveils worlds first deep UV laser device
September 17, 2013
China has become the first country in the world to possess Deep Ultraviolet (DUV)
solid-state laser device. The device was launched by the Chinese Academy of Sciences
(CAS) after its successful testing. The device marks the worlds first-ever output of
1,064-nanometers 6-harmonic frequency multiplication, shortening the diode-pumped
solid-state laser (DPL)s wavelength to 177.3nm.
What can be the use of Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) solid-state laser device?
The device can be used to enhance the production of grapheme, superconductors,
insulators and catalysis. The device which uses Potassium Beryllium Fluoroborate
(KBBF) prism coupling device-based DPL source features a smaller size, higher energy
resolution and higher photon influx density.
Epsilon: Japans new, cheaper rocket successfully launched
September 17, 2013
Japans Aerospace Exploration Agency or JAXA successfully launched a new rocket
named Epsilon which is cheaper and more efficient than its previous rockets.
About Epsilon:
Japans three-stage rocket which uses solid-fuel propellant
Launched from a space centre on Japans southern main island of Kyushu
Main payload: SPRINTA First space telescope designed to observe other
planets.
It is the first new rocket design for Japan since the H2A was introduced in 2001.
The H2A remains Japans primary rocket but JAXA hopes the Epsilon will lead
to improvements in the more costly H2A program.
It costs about 3.8 billion yen ($40 million), one-third the cost of the H2A.
Extensive use of computer technology enables it to be controlled on a single
laptop.



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Tamu Massif: Largest volcano on Earth discovered
September 11, 2013
Scientists have found the single largest volcano in the world called Tamu Massif- a
dead colossus deep beneath the Pacific Ocean. It is spanned across over an area of
310000 sq km and can be compared with Mars Olymus Mons volcano, the largest in
the Solar System. The volcano was located around 2 km below the ocean. Previously,
Mauna Loa in Hawaii was considered the largest volcano on Earth.
About Tamu Massif:
It is an extinct submarine shield volcano located in the northwestern Pacific
Ocean.
It is largest known volcano on Earth.
It is located in the Shatsky Rise about 1,600 km (990 mi) east of Japan.
Its summit lies about 1,980 m below the surface of the sea, and its base extends
to a depth of about 6.4 km.The volcano is about 4,460 metres tall.

NASA launches LADEE probe to study lunar atmosphere
September 9, 2013
NASA launched a robotic explorer LADEE (Lunar Atmosphere and Dust
Environment Explorer) into space from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in
Virginia.
About LADEE spacecraft:
LADEE is Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer or LADEE.
Cost: $280 million
Launching Site: Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia on September 6,
2013.
Carrier: Minotaur V launched from Wallops Flight Facility
Mission: To study the lunar exosphere (outer atmosphere) and dust in the
Moons vicinity.
Key Instruments: A dust detector, a neutral mass spectrometer, and an
ultraviolet-visible spectrometer, as well as a technology demonstration consisting
of a laser communications (lasercomm) terminal.
Special focus:
Scientists want to explore the composition of the moons very thin atmosphere and how
it might change over time. Researchers also want to solve a puzzle that whether dust
actually rises from the lunar surface. On board there is laser communication test
equipment which NASA will experiment with hopes to eventually replace its traditional
radio systems with laser communications, which would revolutionize communication
with its faster bandwidth using very less power and smaller devices.
Indian scientists detect endogenous water on the Moon
September 9, 2013
In a latest development in the field of science, Indian scientists from the Space
Applications Centre (SAC) of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in
Ahmedabad have found evidence of water of volcanic origin. Unlike previous findings
indicating the presence of water-containing igneous surface, this water has originated
from deep within the Moons interior.
What are the findings by Indian Scientists?

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Indian researchers have detected the endogenous water in the igneous surface on the
Moons non-polar region. So far, scientists had believed lunar rocks do not contain
water and that any water detected in lunar samples was either due to contamination
from the Earth or produced by solar wind and other exogenous extra-lunar
sources. However, after analyzing the spectral data of the Compton-Belkovich
Volcanic Complex (CBVC) region on the far side of the Moon obtained by the NASA
instrument Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3), which was sent aboard the Indian lunar
mission Chandrayaan-1, India researchers have detected a significant concentration of
the water 0.55% by weight which is the highest ever found on the Moon. The
geology of CBVC area in the non-polar region of moon is quite different from the polar
regions and has also high silica content.
Previous findings by Indian Scientists:
The Indian findings have come after a similar work based on M3 data on the central
peak of the volcanic crater Bullialdus, reported by R. Klima and associates recently.
The findings observed that presence of water could be of magmatic or volcanic origin
as the non-polar Bullialdus crater region is an unfavourable environment for solar
wind to produce significant amounts of water on the surface. Indian researchers have
reported the findings relating to a different volcanic region which supports the previous
finding.
KitKat: New version of Android software
September 6, 2013
Google, on its 15
th
birthday, revealed that the next version of Android will be called
KitKat continuing its predilection for naming its software after famous
delicacies. Over the years, Google launched several versions of Android naming each of
them after a dessert.
The other versions of Android mobile-operating system are:
Cupcake
Donut
Froyo
clair
Gingerbread
Honeycomb
Ice Cream Sandwich
Jelly Bean
Android software powers more than a billion smartphones or tablets worldwide,
according to Google. Androids share of the smartphone market expanded to 79.3% in
the second quarter while that of iPhone fell to 13.2% period.
Which are the main mobile Operating Systems?
As of 2011, the top mobile operating systems marketed as smartphones by market
share were Android, Symbian, Apple iOS, BlackBerry, MeeGo, Windows
Phone and Bada.
Mobile Os and its owner Company
Android: Google Inc.
Symbian OS: Nokia and Accenture.
Bada: Samsung Electronics.
BlackBerry Tablet OS: QNX Software System/BlackBerry
Windows Phone: Microsoft

Jp Singh Page 82

GridOS: Fusion Garage
S40 (Series40): Nokia
webOS: LG
Asha: Nokia
Maemo: Nokia
Indian scientists undertake earthquake prediction research, measure the Deccan
Trap
September 6, 2013
Researchers from the Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute are
conducting deep-earth study in the Koyna-Warna region of Maharashtra with the aim
to enhance understanding of seismic activities and improve earthquake prediction.
What is special about this study?
The study is first of its kind in India which involves drilling deep holes of up to 8 km
into the earth to directly visualize and measure rock changes during earthquakes. NGRI
recently concluded airborne gravity gradeometery studies to get a closer look at Earths
interior, again a first of its kind in the country. Recently, when scientists drilled 1.5 km
into the earth during a test of drilling technology they accurately measured the Deccan
Trap in the study region.
What are Deccan Traps?
The Deccan Traps are large volcanic deposits located on the Deccan Plateau of west-
central India and one of the largest volcanic features on Earth formed due to eruptions
about 65 million years ago at the end of the Cretaceous period.
How would this study help?
As per scientists, the project would take 5 to 10 years during which they expect to have
a better understanding of below-the-surface phenomena during and after an earthquake.
The Koyna-Warna region is known for frequent seismic activity, linked to changes in
water levels in water reservoirs present in the region. Researchers will try to determine
how the changes in water-reservoirs exactly triggers earthquake. In addition to that,
drilling will also allow them to plant underground earthquake detection devices which
will lead to creation of highly efficient warning systems.

Montreal Protocol helps reduce the size of hole in Ozone
September 6, 2013
According to experts at University of Canterbury, the hole in the earths
stratospheric ozone layer over Antarctica is recovering slowly and should close
completely in the latter half of this century. However, its effect on global climate
change is still uncertain.
As per researchers, the Montreal Protocol, which effectively banned
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), had aided in reducing the size of the hole in the ozone
layer. The protocol, which came into existence in 1989, is an international treaty to
phase out substances believed to be responsible for ozone depletion. The scientists are
of the view that if the protocol is adhered to, the ozone layer is expected to recover by
2050.
Uncertainty over the effect of Ozone Recovery
Contrary to our expectations, stratospheric ozone depletion is also believed to have
indirectly protected Antarctica from the worst of greenhouse gas-related warming. The
creation of ozone hole acted to change the circulation of the Southern Hemisphere so

Jp Singh Page 83

that the strong winds linked to the jet streams moved towards the pole. However,
scientists are uncertain about the effect of ozone recovery on the Antarctic climate.
There are views that ozone recovery should act to move the winds back towards the
equator, but greenhouse gases might counteract this effect on the jet-stream positions,
which help to control the width of tropical and polar weather belts.
Union Cabinet gives nod to set up National Institute of Solar Energy
September 5, 2013
The Union Cabinet approved the proposal for setting up of an autonomous National
Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) to function as apex national body for research and
technology development and related activities in the area of solar energy technologies
in the country. The institute is to be set up by converting the Solar Energy Centre
(SEC), Gurgaon with a long term vision to develop it as a world class institute.
The setting up of National Institute of Solar Energy is a part of Jawaharlal Nehru
National Solar Mission (JNNSM) which will speed up the process to support
induction of the latest technologies to ensure maximum cost benefit and lead to early
commercialization. Solar power project developers will be motivated to use more
efficient and optimized solar components.
IAF inducts C-17 Globemaster III heavy-lift transport aircraft
September 5, 2013
The Indian Air Force inducted three Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, heavy-lift transport
aircraft into the newly-formed 81 Skylord Squadron at the Hindan Air Base, Delhi.
About C-17 Globemaster III
It has the potential to carry 75 tonnes of load which is almost double the capacity
of Russian IL-76 in the IAF inventory which can carry only around 40 tonnes.
It will boost up IAFs flexibility in terms of operational response and with the
heavy lift capability it could easily move troops and heavy tanks to required
locations.
Indian Railways developing CReDI system to save fuel and cut emissions
September 4, 2013
The research wing of Indian Railways, Research Development Standard
Organisation (RDSO) is in the process of developing a highly fuel efficient, Common
Rail Electronic Direct Fuel Injection (CReDI) system for its fleet of diesel
locomotives. Indian Railways has taken a global lead in initiating development of the
CReDI for its fleet of diesel locomotives. In this direction, an Indian manufacturer has
set up a joint venture with a reputed firm from Switzerland for design and development
of the system under overall supervision of RDSO.
What is CReDI?
Common rail direct fuel injection is a modern variant of direct fuel injection system
for petrol and diesel engines. Indian railway is working on diesel engines. In the
common rail systems, fuel at a high pressure (1600 bars) is injected into the cylinder by
using a magnetic valve. It is possible to have multiple injections in the cylinder thereby
reducing stress on the cylinder parts and reduce fuel consumption and emissions at the
same time. Common Rail technology has been heralded as break-through invention for
diesel engines across the globe.
How would CReDI help?
The Common Rail Electronic Direct Fuel Injection (CReDI) system would enable
fuel savings in the range of 3 to 4% and emissions reductions by about 20-30% are

Jp Singh Page 84

expected. Once the systems are implemented on the complete fleet of locomotives,
savings will be about Rs. 500-600 crore annually.
Research Development Standard Organisation (RDSO):
RDSO is the research wing of Indian
Railways.Railway Testing and Research Centre (RTRC) was setup in 1952 at Lucknow
owing to a phenomenal increase in countrys industrial and economic activity and a
subsequent increase in the demand for rail transportation.
Current Affairs: Top Headlines for September 4, 2013
September 4, 2013
Raghuram Rajan becomes 23
rd
RBI Governor
Noted economist Raghuram Rajan became the new RBI Governor as he took charge
from the outgoing Governor D Subbarao. Rajan has been an Economics Professor and
has also served as chief economist at the International Monetary Fund. Rajan, who is
known for having forecasted 2008 global financial crisis has taken charge of the vital
position at time when rupee has declined nearly 20% against dollar and the problem of
widening current account deficit and declining forex reserve has become serious.
Union Cabinet gives nod to set up National Institute of Solar Energy
The Union Cabinet approved the proposal for setting up of an autonomous National
Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) to function as apex national body for research and
technology development and related activities in the area of solar energy technologies
in the country. The institute is to be set up by converting the Solar Energy Centre
(SEC), Gurgaon with a long term vision to develop it as a world class institute.
Housing loans should be linked to stages of construction: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India has stated that housing loans from banks to individuals
should be linked to the stages of construction. It said such loan products, popularly
called 80:20 or 75:25 schemes, are likely to make the banks as well as their home loan
borrowers susceptible to additional risks. It added that upfront disbursals of lump sum
loans should not be made in case of incomplete or under-construction housing projects.
SJAM to honor Tedulkar with Century of Centuries award
Sports Journalists Association of Mumbai (SJAM) has selected famous batsman
Sachin Tendulkar for a special Century of Centuries Award. The Little Master has
been chose for the award for scoring 100 international hundreds.
Malala inaugurates new Birmingham Library
Famous brave schoolgirl and education activist Malala Yousufzai was the chief guest at
the opening ceremony of the new Birmingham Library which will now be the largest in
Europe. On this occasion she delivered a moving speech in which she called for peace
and advocated free education for children around the world.
Hyundai unveils new compact car Grand i10
With hopes to further strengthen its business in Indian car market, Hyundai Motor
India (HMIL) unveiled its new compact car Grand i10 priced between Rs 4.29 lakh
and Rs 6.41 lakh. The car has been launched in two engine variants 1.1 litre diesel and
1.2 litre petrol. While the diesel version is priced between Rs 5.23 lakh and Rs 6.41
lakh, the petrol variant is priced from Rs 4.29 lakh to Rs 5.47 lakh.
Verizon Communications to acquire Vodafones 45% in JV for $130 billion
Verizon Communications has decided to acquire Vodafone Groups 45% stake in
Verizon Wireless for $130 billion. The deal will be the third biggest acquisition in
corporate history, after Vodafones 1999 takeover of Germanys Mannesmann for $203

Jp Singh Page 85

billion and AOLs $165 billion buyout of Time Warner in 2000. It also marks British
telecom heavyweight Vodafones exit from the US mobile market.
Indian engineering grad wins $ 12,500 bounty from Facebook for detecting critical
bug
Social networking website Facebook will pay Arul Kumar (21), an Indian engineering
graduate, a bounty of $12,500 for detecting a critical bug that allowed anyone to delete
any photo hosted on the social networking website. Earlier his claim of finding such a
bug was rejected by the Facebook but later when he sent a video to the website
explaining how it could be done, they agreed to pay the bounty. Facebook runs a
programme which rewards people who find flaws on the website.
Microsoft to buy Nokia for $7.2 billion

Software behemoth Microsoft Corp will buy Nokias business and its patents for 5.44
billion euros with the aim to enter into mobile market. The deal will include Nokias
mobile phones and smart devices business units as well as operations including all
Nokia devices and services related production facilities, sales and marketing activities
and related support functions.
Birth certificate, Passport or Aadhaar card alone no proof of citizenship: Bombay
HC
The Bombay high court, in a judgement, held that if an individual was born after July 1,
1987 then merely having a birth certificate, passport or even an Aadhaar card is not
enough to prove that he/she is an Indian citizen. As per Indian Citizenship laws, a
person born in India after July 1, 1987 cannot claim automatic citizenship unless at least
one of the parents is an Indian.
Current Affairs: Top Headlines for September 3, 2013
September 3, 2013
Moortidevi award to Haraprasad Das
Noted poet, Haraprasad Das has been honored with the Moortidevi Award for 2012
for Vamsha, a poetic recreation of the Mahabharata in contemporary dialect, which
has been heralded as a post-modern masterwork.
Food Security Bill passed in Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha passed the ambitious Food Security Bill which aims to provide
foodgrains at highly subsidized prices to the 2/3
rd
of countrys population. The bill will
guarantee 5 kg of rice, wheat and coarse cereals per month per person at Rs 3, 2, 1,
respectively. The programme would cost government Rs 1,30,000 crore government
which will be the largest such programme in the world. It would require 62 million
tonnes of foodgrains.
Washington moves USS Nimitz towards Red Sea
In what could be seen as a surge in tension in the West Asia region, the Washington has
moved the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz towards the Red Sea, though the warship had not
yet received orders to support a strike on Syria. US President Obama and his team are
lobbying hard to seek US Congress approval for a military strike against the Syrian
regime over the use of chemical weapons in the country. Russia has warned that any US
military aggression in Syria would derail the Geneva peace plan and has suggested US
Congress to take a balanced view of the situation in Syria.



Jp Singh Page 86

IAF inducts C-17 Globemaster III heavy-lift transport aircraft
The Indian Air Force inducted three Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, heavy-lift transport
aircraft into the newly-formed 81 Skylord Squadron at the Hindan Air Base, Delhi.
C-17 has the potential to carry 75 tonnes of load which is almost double the capacity of
Russian IL-76 in the IAF inventory which can carry only around 40 tonnes. It will boost
up IAFs flexibility in terms of operational response and with the heavy lift capability it
could easily move troops and heavy tanks to required locations.
PM unveils Gandhi Heritage Portal
Prime Minister Dr. Mamohan Singh launched the Gandhi Heritage Portal. The portal
has been designed to review the message of non-violence to the world as well as to the
Indian youth, besides highlighting significant aspects of the freedom struggle and
Gandhijis message and humanism. The portal is conceived around The Collected
Works of Mahatma Gandhi. It makes available the critical works in three languages:
English (100 volumes), Hindi (97 volumes) and Gujarati (82 volumes). These volumes
are interlinked to provide easy navigation from one text and language to the other.
India, Japan to restart talks on civil nuclear agreement
After a hiatus of nearly 3 years, India and Japan will resume talks on the civil nuclear
pact in Tokyo today. The nuclear-energy negotiations were initiated in 2010 but have
been on hold since the Fukushima nuclear disaster March 2011. This will be the fourth
round of talks which comes following a meeting between Prime Minister Manmohan
Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe in Tokyo in May, 2013 when they
resolved to direct to expedite the negotiations of an Agreement for Co-operation in the
Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy towards an early conclusion.
Himachal Pradesh imposes ban on sand transport to other states to curb illegal
mining
In a bid to check illegal mining of sand the Himachal Pradesh government has decided
to take stringent measures and impose a temporary blanket ban on the transportation of
construction material like sand and grit to other states for 3 months. The government
has also decided to create a task force in each district to check not only the illegal
mining but also to suggest ways to curb these actives in future.
RBI asks banks to consider e-KYC a valid process
In a notification issued by the Reserve Bank of India, banks have been asked to avail
the electronic Know Your Customer, e-KYC service, launched by the Unique
Identification Authority of India, UIDAI. The notification directed banks to revise their
KYC policy by accepting the e-KYC as a valid process for KYC verification under the
Prevention of Money Laundering (Maintenance of Records) Rules, 2005. As per the
notification, the information containing demographic details and photographs made
available from UIDAI as a result of e-KYC process may be treated as an Officially
Valid Document under PML Rules.
The e-KYC service was launched by the UIDAI to help people link their existing
records, like ration cards, pension accounts, license and certificates, to their Aadhaar
numbers in a safe and easy manner.
Process of opening bank accounts for foreign students simplified: RBI
Simplifying bank account opening procedure for foreign students, RBI issued a
notification asking banks to open a Non-Resident Ordinary bank account of a foreign
student on the basis of his/her passport along with appropriate visa and immigration
endorsement. As per the notification foreign students who intend to open a bank

Jp Singh Page 87

account will have to submit a valid address proof giving local address, in the form of a
rent agreement or a letter from the educational institution in case of hostel facility
within 30 days of opening the account. Banks have been asked not to insist on the
landlord visiting the branch for verification of rent documents and to take up alternative
means of verification of local address.
Diana Nyad becomes first person to swim from Cuba to US without shark cage
American long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad (64) became the first person to swim
across 166-km long Florida Strait from Cuba to the United States without a shark
cage. It took her about 53 hours after beginning from Havana. It was her 5
th
attempt
when set a record for the longest ocean swim without a shark cage or flippers.

Current Affairs: Top Headlines for September 2, 2013
September 2, 2013
Hyderabad Hotshots clinch IBL
Hyderabad Hotshots defeated Awadhe Warriors in the final of the $1 million
inaugural Vodafone-Indian Badminton League (IBL) played in Mumbai. The event
witnessed six teams namely Banga Beats, Hyderabad Hotshots, Delhi Smashers,
Mumbai Masters, Pune Pistons and Awadhe Warriors competing against each other to
reach the top spot.
To save forex India plans crude import from Iran
To tackle widening Current account Deficit (CAD) and continuous depreciation of
rupee India plans to exercise the option of importing crude oil from Iran. The move
would Indias save $8.5 billion in foreign exchange as pays Tehran in rupee unlike
other oil exporting countries. India spent $144.29 billion for oil imports in the last
fiscal.
Korea beat India to conquer Asia Cup
India lost to Korea in the final of Asia Cup hockey tournament. Korea won the match 4-
3 which brought them fourth triumph in the competition.
Final Positions of Teams: 1. Korea, 2. India, 3. Pakistan, 4. Malaysia, 5. Japan,
6. Oman, 7.Bangladesh, 8. Chinese Taipei.
Player of the tournament: V.R. Raghunath (India)
Lungs of Indians functions 30% lower than Europeans: Study
It has been found in a study that Indians have 30% lower lung function as compared to
Europeans. The study conducted the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) measurement
of 10,000 healthy, non-smoking individuals in Jaipur, Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata and
Kashmir and found that lung function in Indians was 30% lower than Europeans. PEFR
is the rate at which a person exhales and it is measured to assess lung function. This
puts Indians at more risk from air pollution and smoking.
Indian capital markets witness $2.5 billion FIIs pull out
Foreign investors pulled out nearly Rs 16,000 crore (around $2.5 billion) from the
Indian capital markets in August 2013 amid fears over the falling rupee. As per experts,
although there has been a continous pull out of FIIs from Indian market due to Indias
economic challenges, depreciating rupee and volatile global markets, the outflows have
slowed. The volume of outflows marked the lowest net outflows from the Indian capital
markets since June, when FIIs had pulled out a record Rs 44,162 crore ($7.5 billion).
ICC T20 rankings: India No. 3, Sri Lanka tops list

Jp Singh Page 88

With 121 rating, India have retained their rank three position among T20 teams. Sri
Lanka tops the chart which is followed by Pakistan. The Indian batsmen listed in top-20
list also managed to retain their respective spots with star batsman Kohli at 6
th
place
while Suresh Raina remained at 8
th
position.
Food Security programme begins in Delhi
Food Security programme has been started in National capital Delhi. The programme
which involves distribution of foodgrains under the highly subsidized prices has begun
at four places in the national capital. Under the programme, identified beneficiaries will
be entitled to food grains at Rs 3 per kg for rice, Rs 2 per kg for wheat and Rs 1 per kg
for coarse cereals. Delhi government has so far identified 35 lakh beneficiaries and is
likely to expand it further to 73 lakh people by January 2014.
Arab League calls for deterrent measures against Syria
The Arab League has exhorted the United Nations and the global community to take
deterrent and necessary action against the Syrian government under Bashar al Assad for
the use of chemical weapons while oppression of the rebellion there. However, Sunni
Islams highest seat of learning, Cairo s Al Azhar has expressed opposition to any US
military intervention on Syria, saying this would lead to an aggression against the Arab
and Islamic nation.
Health Ministry launches health schemes in Assam
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched in Assam various new health scheme
mainly focused on improving the maternal and infant mortality rates in the state.
Among the scheme launched were Mother and Child Tracking System (MCTS),
Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), national Iron Plus initiative, National
Health Missions Free Drug Service, tele-radiology service and hospital-to-hospital 102
ambulance services.
Factory activity of India contracts for first time since March 2009
It is for the first time in the last 4 years that Indian factory activity has registered a
shrink aggravating the concerns for the countrys deepening economic woes even as the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) battles to defend the rupee currency. It came into notice
from the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) data that showed Indian economy grew
at its slowest quarterly rate in the three months to June since the global financial crisis.
HIP 102152: Scientists discover Suns twin
September 1, 2013
An 8.2-billion-year-old twin of the Sun has been discovered by the astronomers.
Astronomers in Brazil used ESOs Very Large Telescope to locate the star HIP 102152
located 250 light-years away. It is very similar to the Sun- except that it is nearly four
billion years older.
How would the discovery of Suns twin help?
Studying the ancient star allows researchers to predict what may happen to our own Sun
when it reaches that age. The discovery has already helped scientists to understand why
some stars have high lithium content like the Sun and others have a low content of it. It
has been found now that there is a strong link between the age of the star and its lithium
content with scientists claiming that youger and mid-aged stars have higher lithium
whereas stars somehow destroy their lithium as they age.




Jp Singh Page 89

Researchers grow tiny brain cells in test tubes
August 30, 2013
In a latest development in the field of Bioscience, scientists have grown mini human
brains in test tubes, which will serve as a tool for them watch the development of brain
in embryonic stage. They are hopeful that it will enhance their understanding of
neurological and mental problems.
These miniature human brains are the cerebral organoids which are a few millimetres
across and are composed of layers of brain cells with defined regions that is similar to
those seen in immature embryonic brains.
How would growing brain cells in test tube be useful?
The organoids grown in test tubes would aid scientists who want to analyze how
disorder such as schizophrenia or autism occurs in the brain; though these are usually
found in elderly people some of the underlying defects occur during the embryonic
stage of brains development. These organoids are expected also to be useful in the
development and testing of drugs.
NASA uses Chandrayans data to detect water on Moon
August 30, 2013
Scientists from the US space agency NASA have detected magmatic water under the
Moons surface. They used the data collected by the Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3)
instrument aboard the Indian Space Research Organisations (ISRO) Chandrayaan-1
spacecraft, to remotely detect magmatic water, or water that originates from deep within
the Moons interior, on the lunar surface.
What is Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3)?
The Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M
3
) was one of two instruments that
NASA contributed to Indias first mission to the Moon, Chandrayaan-1, launched on
October 22, 2008. The instrument was managed by NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
M3 imaged the lunar impact crater Bullialdus, which lies near the lunar equator. In
2009, M3 provided the first mineralogical map of the lunar surface and discovered
water molecules in the polar regions of the Moon.
Stage set to launch Indias first defence satellite
August 30, 2013
Indias first defence satellite GSAT-7 dedicated to Navy for maritime security is now
set for the launch. The home-built satellite will be crucial as it will overcome Navys
previous limitations from line of sight and ionospheric effects and will have coverage
over India landmass as well as surrounding seas. It will be significant from security and
surveillance points of view.
Key features of GSAT-7:
Indigenous
Cost: Rs 185 crore
Launch Cost: Rs 470 crore
Geo-stationary communication satellite
Carries payloads operating in UHF, S, C and Ku bands.
Lift-off mass of 2625 kg, heavy satellite
Strengthen Navys maritime security ability
Overcomes previous limitations from line of sight and ionospheric effects

Jp Singh Page 90

The satellite will be launched into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) by Ariane-
5 VA 215 by European space consortium Arianespacefrom Kourou spaceport in French
Guiana.
Solution for Global Hunger: Study shows instant noodles can play key role to
battle global hunger
August 28, 2013
Instant Noodles a solution to Global Hunger:
As per a latest study by Deborah Gewertz, Professor of Anthropology at Amherst
College in US, instant noodles can play a significant role in combating the
challenge of global hunger which is aggravating with the increasing population.
The study examines the history, manufacturing, marketing and consumption of the
ubiquitous foodstuff and suggests that instant noodles will have an increasingly
important global role in the future.
As per the study, instant noodles are served in variable forms and have already shown a
remarkable potential to be a part of diverse lives. Researchers expect that the calories
provided by the tasty, convenient, cheap, shelf-stable, industrially prepared instant
noodles will remain important as food becomes scarcer in the future.
What is the origin of Instant Noodles?
Instant noodles were invented by Taiwan-born inventor Momofuku Ando in
Japan.
They were first marketed on August 25, 1958, by Andos company Nissin under
the brand name Chikin Ramen.
In India the most popular brand is Nestles Maggi which is regarded in popular culture
as a two-minute noodle.
cience and Technology
Hysterectomies will be a part of health survey
August 27, 2013
The government will collect information on Hysterectomies in the National Family
Health Survey (NFHS) in the 4
th
round which is scheduled in January 2014.
What is Hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy is the complete or partial removal of the uterus and sometimes ovaries,
cervix and fallopian tubes, usually performed by a gynecologist.
Hysterectomy may be of two types:
a) Total i.e. removing the body, fundus, and cervix of the uterus; often called
complete.
b) Partial i.e. removal of the uterine body while leaving the cervix intact; also called
supracervical.
Why is Hysterectomy performed?
Hysterectomy is opted for if the uterus is causing health problems that cannot be treated
by other means. Some reasons a woman may have a hysterectomy are to:
Treat cancers such as uterine , endometrial, or ovarian cancers
Remove uterine fibroids -common, benign (noncancerous) tumors that grow in
the muscle of the uterus
Treat chronic pelvic pain
Treat heavy bleeding


Jp Singh Page 91

Why hysterectomies is being included in the National Family Health Survey
(NFHS) ?
The step has been taken keeping in view the demand from the health activists and
medical practitioners following reports of rising cases of hysterectomies across the
country. According to the activists deceitful doctors were performing hysterectomies on
pre-menopausal and even women younger than 30 years for monetary gains.
The data generated during the NFHS could be used for formulating guidelines to
conduct surgeries for removing the uterus. Hysterectomy may have a significant
impact on womans health.
So the rising concern is not just about the high expenditure and medical
ethics but also about the complications and troubles that follow.
Presently there are no exact statistics to show the prevalence rate of these
operations and it is believed that they are the second most common surgeries
performed on women, second only to caesarean sections.
Top tech cos join hands to launch Internet.Org
August 24, 2013
Seven of the worlds tech giants (Ericsson, MediaTek, Nokia, Opera, Qualcomm and
Samsung) collaborated to launch Internet.org with an aim to make Internet access
affordable for people across the globe.

The initiative will be headed by Facebook Founder and CEO, Mark
Zuckerberg.
What is Internet.org ?
Internet.org is an initiative of Facebook and six other technology giants, namely
Ericsson, MediaTek, Nokia, Opera, Qualcomm and Samsung.
The partners will collaborate towards developing lower-cost, higher-quality
smartphones and deploying Internet access in undeserved communities.
The endeavour is to overcome current challenges, including developing
technologies that make mobile connectivity more affordable and decrease the
cost of delivering data to people worldwide.
The partners will develop joint projects, share knowledge, and mobilise industry
and governments to bring the world online.
Focus will be on developing technologies that make mobile connectivity more
affordable and decrease the cost of delivering data to people worldwide.
Sharing tools, resources and best practices, Internet.org partners will explore
solutions in three major opportunity areas: affordability, efficiency, and
business models.
In order to achieve its goal of connecting the two-thirds of the world who are not yet
online, internet.org will focus on three key challenges in developing countries:
1. Making access affordable (Affordability)
2. Using data more efficiently (Efficiency)
3. Helping businesses drive access (Business Models)
AFFORDABILITY
No one should have to choose between access to the internet and food or
medicine. Internet.org partners will join forces to develop technology that decreases the
cost of delivering data to people worldwide, and helps expand internet access in
underserved communities.

Jp Singh Page 92

EFFICIENCY
Transmitting dataeven a text message or a simple web pagerequires bandwidth,
something thats scarce in many parts of the world. Partners will invest in tools and
software to improve data compression capabilities and make data networks and services
run more efficiently.
BUSINESS MODELS
Connecting billions of people will be a massive global effort that requires ongoing
innovation. Developers, mobile operators and device manufacturers will work together
to introduce business models that give people more ways to go online.
Portal launched to facilitate RTI application filing in all Govt Ministries
August 24, 2013
The government has launched a portal which will facilitate citizens to file
RTI applications online in all central government ministries and departments. The web
address of the portal is www.rtionline.gov.in
The portal is a step to provide greater transparency in governance through the Right
to Information Act which mandates timely response to citizens requests for
government information.
About the online RTI portal:
Currently the text of an application that can be uploaded in the prescribed column
on the portal while filing application is restricted to 500 words. In case an
application contains more than 500 words, it can be uploaded as an attachment.
An information seeker can submit a fee of Rs.10 via Internet banking through
State Bank of India (SBI) and its associate banks using the website. One can also
use credit or debit cards.
An applicant will get an alert on the mobile phone about movement of the
application. Answers to queries related to the portal can be sought on the
telephone number 011- 24622461 during normal office hours.
Correlation between wealth and height true, but not always Research
August 24, 2013
A new research shows that there is a direct correlation between how tall one would
grow and how rich ones State was when one was born. But the relationship between a
States income and the height of its residents is growing weaker over time as a result
of inequality within States. Faster growing States will not necessarily get healthier
and taller at an equally fast rate if their inequality levels are high.
Key observations of the study:
On a comparison of the Net State Domestic Product per capita (NSDP) with
the height of the population in the State and other health data obtained from two
rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) in 1998-99 and 2005-06,
it was found that there was a strong relationship between the NSDP for the year
preceding the NFHS rounds and the heights of children aged 2 to 3.
Growth in NSDP per capita between the two rounds of the NFHS (1998-99 and
2005-6) was however not directly correlated with improvements in stunting.
Health improvement is a combined effort of socio-economic development,
medical advancement as well as other factors like improvement in health
facilities and womens access.

Jp Singh Page 93

Higher income States have almost the same average levels of inequality as lower
income states and there is a strong correlation between income inequality and
health problems.

EC to use VVPAT system in Nagaland by polls
August 23, 2013
The Election Commission of India has decided to use Electronic Voting Machines
(EVM) for the first time with Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) in the
September, 2013 by-poll to the Noksen Assembly constituency in Nagaland.
The Government of India amended the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 in order to
use VVPAT Systems.
What is Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail System (VVPAT)?
The VVPAT system is a new initiative of the Election Commission of India to
ensure free and fair elections.
The VVPT will enable voters to see a printout of their ballot thereby displaying
the name, election symbol and serial number of the chosen candidate. However
the voter will not be permitted take the printout home.
In case there is a dispute about the voting and a petition is filed, the votes can be
tallied electronically and physically with the ballot slips that fall into the
compartment.
The cost of each VVPAT manufactured by Bharat Electronic Ltd. (BEL) and
Electronics Corporation of India (ECIL) is estimated at about Rs. 12,000.
ISRO postpones GSLV launch due to glitch
August 23, 2013
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) cancelled Geosynchronous
Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) programme after imperfections in its indigenous
cryogenic upper stage. The GSLV-D5 mission to launch into orbit the advanced
communication satellite GSAT-14 was dropped due to a fuel leak.
The lift that was scheduled for 4.50 p.m. on August 19 from Sriharikota spaceport was
just called off an hour before.
Why does the launch of GSLV-D5 hold significance?
GSLV-D5 has an indigenously built cryogenic engine which makes it special.
The launch vehicle will place 1982-kg weighing GSAT-14 in orbit to signal
Indias entry into an ivy league of nations with frontier capabilities of launching
2,000-2,500 kg class of advanced communication satellites in outer space.
GSAT-14, the 23
rd
geostationary communication satellite built by ISRO, will join
a line-up of nine Indian satellites to help provide a host of satellite based
communication services, including tele-education and tele-medicine.
The satellite will enhance the in-orbit capacity of the extended C and Ku-band
transponders in the INSAT-GSAT ecosystem to set the stage for new and
exciting experiments driven by satellite-based communication.
India has developed this cryogenic engine as Russia denied India from providing
a cryogenic engine.
GSAT-14
Satellite with 6 extended C band and 6 Ku band transponders.
It will enhance the communication transponder capacity

Jp Singh Page 94

The previous two efforts of ISRO to launch the satellites GSLV-F06 carrying satellite
GSAT-5P in December 2010 and GSLV-D3 carrying satellite GSAT-4 in April 2010
were not a success.
Ug99 is not an immediate threat to Indias crops Scientist Ronnie Coffman
August 20, 2013
As per noted scientist Ronnie Coffman from College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
at Cornell University (US), India does not face any immediate threat from the Ug99
wheat rust disease that hits the stem of a wheat plant. However it has to be prepared.
What is Ug99?
Ug99 is a lineage of wheat stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici), which is
present in wheat fields in several countries in Africa and the Middle East and is
predicted to spread rapidly through these regions and possibly further afield, potentially
causing a wheat production disaster that would affect food security worldwide.

It can
cause up to 100% crop losses and is virulent against many resistance genes which have
previously protected wheat against stem rust.
So far the Indian sub-continent had been safe. If the disease were to hit Afghanistan,
Pakistan and India, it would hurt wheat availability around the globe. The spread of
the wind-blown disease would depend on the west-east air flow pattern.
What are the possible remedies to tackle Ug99?
India, which has been one of the biggest sources of providing plant material for
developing rust resistant varieties for the world, may use its rust resistant varieties of
wheat to replace the wheat which is vulnerable to Ug99. Furthermore, the disease can
be kept under control by surveillance and fungicide sprays with full participation of
farmers.
What is the status of Wheat production in India?
The wheat production in India is steadily increasing and currently it is preparing to
boost its output to a record level of 100 million tonnes in 2015. India is the second
largest wheat producer and consumer in the world. In 2012-13, the country produced
92.46 million tonnes of wheat. This is 13.2% of the worlds production.
Government to tweak FDI policy for pharma to protect domestic units
August 20, 2013
A high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has asked the
Commerce and Industry Ministry to start inter-Ministerial consultations on the issue of
changing the norms of FDI policy for pharma which, in its current form, is not serving
its objectives and that it needs to be fine-tuned to ensure that cheap drugs are made
available to the people at large.
Why there is a need being felt to bring changes in FDI policy for pharma sector?
As it is believed, the policy in its existing for is not serving the purpose it was designed
for. For instance, if 100% FDI limit in the pharma sector is upheld, there are
apprehensions, it will impact the domestic generic drug industry and it could lead to
Indias dependence on imports for life-saving drugs. Further, there are concerns that
MNCs have acquired brownfield projects of domestic companies but have spent very
little on R&D in India. Over 96% of FDI between April 2012 and April 2013 has come
into Brownfield projects. It has not led to significant addition to gross assets or jobs or
increase in R&D expenditure. A parliamentary panel has recommended to impose a
blanket ban on FDI in brownfield projects.

Jp Singh Page 95

Besides, there are concerns over the ability of Indian firms to take advantage of the
situation of blockbuster drugs going off patent through 2015 could be impaired. As
many as 67% of drugs worth $80 billion is expected to go off the patent regime between
2011 and 2013.
Currently, around 28% of the market is controlled by MNCs. If another top three Indian
companies are acquired by MNCs, their share would increase to 41% and on acquisition
of the next rung of eight companies, their share will go over 55%.
What is a Brownfield Project ?
In a Brownfield project the structure would need to be demolished or renovated. Those
facilities which are modified/upgraded are called Brownfield land projects (often the
pre-existing site/facilities are contaminated/polluted.)
What is a Greenfield Project ?
A Greenfield is a project that lacks any constraints imposed by prior work. The analogy
is to that of construction on greenfield land where there is no need to remodel or
demolish an existing structure. Examples of greenfield projects are new factories,
power plants, airports which are built from scratch on greenfield land.
Both the Greenfield Project and Brownfield Project relate to property
construction.

Committee to examine Pentavalent vaccines safety
August 20, 2013
In the wake of 21 infants dying after receiving Pentavalent vaccine in the country, the
government will conduct a study to ascertain its safety.
The government will soon set up a national-level Adverse Events Following
Immunisation (AEFI) Committee that will launch a study on the safety and
effectiveness of Pentavalent vaccine and will go into background of the deaths of 21
infants who received this vaccine in various states of India. The proposed study will be
conducted with the help of some other agencies and the WHO will also be involved in
it.
What is a Pentavalent Vaccine?
The Pentavalent vaccine protects children against five deadly childhood diseases
DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus), Hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenza
type B (HiB).
AERB nod to run KKNPP first reactor at 50 % capacity
August 20, 2013
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted permission to
the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) to run its first reactor at 50 %
(500 MW) capacity and synchronization of its generator.
What is the significance of approval to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project
(KKNPP) by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)?
The approval means functioning of every component of the 1,000 MW-reactor supplied
by Russia. The KKNPP first reactor is likely to generate 400 MW before August 2013
end and the reactor is expected to attain its full capacity of 1,000 MW by November
2013 end after getting mandatory clearances from the AERB.



Jp Singh Page 96

Extinction of large animals Megafauna damaged nutrient distribution system
August 20, 2013
As per a latest studies, large animals acted as carriers of key nutrients to plants and
animals over thousands of years. According to the findings, large animals which
scientists call Megafauna worked as key nutrient distributing arteries which spread
vital nutrient substances like phosphorous which are essential for the growth of plants.
The studies show that the extinction of the megafauna 12,000 years back wiped out one
of the main means of transporting nutrients far from the rivers creating a nutrient
deficiency which continues to affect plant and animal life in parts of the region today.
What is Megafauna?
As per researchers, South America was crowded with large animals which are named as
megafauna a term for animals with a body mass of more than 44kg (the size of a
large dog).
How did Megafauna play role in distributing nutrients?
Due to the large size of the megafauna, they eat and move more than small animals,
they have a particularly important role in transporting nutrients into areas where the soil
is infertile otherwise. For example:
In South America, most nutrients originate in the Andes mountain range and are washed
into the forests through the river system. On dry land these nutrients are in short supply
unless they are transported through animal dung and bodies. While small animals
distribute nutrients over small distances large animals have a much greater range. These
megafauna which ate in high quantity and absorbing more phosphorous acted as a key
reserve of phosphorous which they transported dry areas through their excretory
products or through their bodies after death, thus, playing a significant role in nutrient
distribution.
Chinas UCWeb: Most extensively used mobile browser in India
August 20, 2013
As per the latest data from StatCounter, Chinese internet service companies are
looking forward to crack the Indian market as they have achieved another milestone
with Chinese firm UCWebs mobile browser becoming the most widely used browser
in India.
StatCounter, a web traffic analysis tool, now places UC Browser (a UCWeb mobile
service) at having a 30% market share for the month of July 2013 narrowly beating
previous market leader Opera.
UCWebs increased market share is also due to the company extending its global
partnership with Samsung and LG to the Indian market. UCWeb is also planning to
soon tie-up with local Indian handset.
Hyperloop Transport model unveiled
August 20, 2013
SpaceX founder and entrepreneur Elon Musk has brought out a transportation concept
that he said could take passengers nearly 643 km between Los Angeles and San
Francisco in 30 minutes- half the time that an airplane takes.
How would the Hyperloop transportation concept work?
The concept of Hyperloop is believed to be similar to the Evacuated Tube
Transport (ETT). The concept consist of creating an elevated tube system in which
capsules would move from one destination to other with a speed as high as 1,220 km/h.

Jp Singh Page 97

As per the concept in this case the cargo would be people and the ride would start with
a force of acceleration like an airplane and afterwards it would be turbulence free.
Capsules would be projected through a large nearly air free tube and inside they would
be pulled down the line by magnetic attraction. Each capsule would float on a cushion
of air it creates like an air hockey table in which the puck produces the air instead of the
surface. To minimize friction a powerful fan at the front would suck the air that is in the
tube to the rear. Capsules could carry 28 people with a projected cost of about $20 each
way.
Cost and Fare:
As estimated, the system linking the two cities, which are 380 miles (610km) apart,
would cost $6bn (3.9bn). A one way trip would cost $20 (13).
Sharp rise in Internet related bank frauds: Banking Ombudsman
August 20, 2013
There was a sharp increase in complaints relating to Internet related bank frauds. The
total number of complaints increased marginally from 3,486 in 2011-12 to 3,494 in
2012-13. The complaints related to credit card and Internet based transactions
increased from 732 to 1,279 as per Banking Ombudsman for Karnataka M.
Palanisamy.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has adopted new guidelines that require banks to ensure
that customers authenticate through an alternative network typically via a text message
which make Card based transactions more secure. The online transactions through net
banking channels or using credit cards remain a concern for not only the banks but for
the regulator also.
How did fraudulent transactions happen?
The scamsters who were mainly based overseas skimmed the details on the debit or
credit cards of ordinary people including drivers, housewives and mechanics. The
uncertified websites such as lyca.uk, sports.com, entropay.uk and denguemail.ru
were among those that pilfered their victims by drawing money in foreign currency.
There were a few cases of Indians as in one of the case a gang in Bangalore masked IP
addresses to make it appear to the user that the website was based overseas. In most
cases the banks have re-credited the disputed amounts to the victims. The possible
explanation for the banks readiness to settle disputes could be the burden of proof on
them to establish that they had not been responsible for the user id or password being
compromised.
No plan to increase research stations in Arctic and Antarctica
August 19, 2013
Union Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences has clarified that India
does not intend to increase research stations in Arctic and Antarctica.
What is the status of Indias scientific presence in Arctic and Antarctica?
Status of Indias Scientific presence in Antarctica:
India presently has two research stations at Antarctica namely Maitri and Bharati.
The new station Bharati in Larsemann Hills has just been constructed and
established in March, 2013. Maitri station has been in operation since 1989. At both
the stations research and investigations are undertaken to understand the Polar
processes and phenomenon. Observations and studies are carried out in atmospheric,
biological, geological, ecological sciences etc.
Status of Indias Scientific presence in Arctic:

Jp Singh Page 98

Indian station in Arctic is known as Himadri is located at Ny Alesund, Spitsbergen
Island, Norway and serves as a hub of Indian scientific investigations since 2008.
Training launch of Prithvi-II missile successful
August 19, 2013
Indias Strategic Forces Command (SFC) test fired its nuclear capable surface-to-
surface Prithvi-II missile for its full strike range of 350 km from the Integrated Test
Range at Chandipur, off Odisha coast. The launch was part of regular training exercise.
About Prithvi-II
First missile to be developed by DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile
Development Program (IGMDP)
Surface-to-surface
Single-stage liquid fuelled
Payload capacity- 500 to 1000 kg
Range: 350km
Variants: Prithvi I for Army, Prithvi II for Air Force and; Dhanush for the Navy
Inducted into the SFC in 2003

Bt cotton replaces desi cotton in flag making
August 15, 2013
Bt cotton, a technology of an American seed company replaced desi cotton Jayadhar,
a popular variety of cotton grown in Karnataka that was also earlier used in making
flags.
Flag making units at Bengeri in Hubli city and Garaga in Dharwad district, which
caters to the nationwide demand for the tricolor are now using, wholly or partly, the
khadi derived from Bt cotton. At some naufacturing units at Bengeri where flag making
started in 2008, the tricolour is manufactured using khadi made out of a combination
of Jayadhar and BT cotton.
Why flag manufacturers are choosing Bt cotton over indigenous cotton varieties?
As per manufacturers, quality of cotton is determined by length,
strength and appearance and BT cotton provides all these qualities.
GSLV-D5 to be powered by indigenous Cryogenic Engine, to lift off on August 19,
2013
August 14, 2013
As Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-D5) is slated to lift off around
5 p.m. on August 19, 2013 from Sriharikota is powered by an indigenous cryogenic
engine and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has used every expertise
available in the country to ensure that the engine performs smoothly this time. GSLV-
D5 will put Indias advanced communication satellite GSAT-14, weighing 1,980 kg,
into orbit.
ISROs earlier attempt with indigenous cryogenic engine has not been successful. In
April 2010, the GSLV flight with an indigenous cryogenic engine had failed. The
subsequent GSLV flight with a Russian cryogenic stage also failed in December 2010.
This time a number of ground tests have been done on the sub-systems and the
cryogenic engine at the after making the necessary design changes in the Fuel Booster
Turbo Pump (FBTP) and the oxidiser turbo pump which was earlier causing errors.
What is a Cryogenic Rocket Engine?

Jp Singh Page 99

Cryos is a Greek word meaning Ice Cold. The Cryogenics is the study of producing
extremely low temperatures. Cryogenic rocket engine uses a cryogenic fuel. A
cryogenic fuel or oxidizer includes the gases liquefied at a very low temperature. Due to
use of liquid gases as propellants, the cryogenic Rocket Engines are also called liquid-
propellant rocket engines.

The gases in liquid state occupy less space and provide required mass flow rate more
efficiently than using the same in gaseous state.
The CE-20 is the first Indian cryogenic engine (but not indigenous) to feature a gas-
generator cycle. It has been developed at Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), in
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
LPSC is the research centre and rocket engine test facility of ISRO. LPSC has played a
leading role in development of liquid propellant stages for PSLV, control systems for
SLV-3, ASLV, PSLV and GSLV, satellite propulsion systems including those for
INSAT and IRS and production of pressure transducers.
Indias indigenous Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) for Geosynchronous Satellite
Launch Vehicle (GSLV) which was successfully test fired by ISRO on August 4, 2007,
was also developed by LPSC.
Which are countries who possess Cryogenic Engine technology?
At present only five countries viz. United States, Russia, France, Japan and China
have the cryogenic engine upper stage technology to launch heavier satellites in
geostationary orbit. India is the sixth country to design and develop the cryogenic
technology.
Pinaka rockets tested successfully
August 14, 2013
Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) successfully test fired
Pinaka rockets were from a Multi- Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) from a base at
Chandipur. The MBRL is capable of acting as a force multiplier and has been
developed to supplement artillery guns. Pinaka has undergone several tough tests since
1995 and has already been introduced into the armed forces.
In July, 2013, a more advanced 2
nd
generation i.e. Pinaka Mark II Multi-Barrel
Rocket Launcher System had undergone successful firing trials at Chandhan area in
Pokhran field firing ranges in western Rajastan and is in development stage.
Pinaka and its applications
Pinaka is an unguided area weapon rocket system with a range of 40 km, meant
to neutralise large areas with rapid salvos.
It can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds, the battery of six launchers can
neutralise at a time a target area of 3.9 sq km.
The systems capability to incorporate several types of warheads makes it deadly
for the enemy as it can even destroy solid structures and bunkers.
The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of the system gives an edge to the
Army during a low amount conflict situation
Govt. mulls making fingerprints compulsory for new SIM cards subscribers
August 14, 2013
Government is looking forward to make it mandatory for the telecom service providers
to take fingerprint or any other biometric feature of the subscriber when he/she applies
for a mobile connection in future.

Jp Singh Page 100

As per the suggestions of Ministry of Home Affairs the Department of Telecom
(DoT) may need to maintain a central database of all subscribers with bio-metric
parameters similar to the Aadhaar. The final decision is still due

Magnetic flip of Sun may affect Earths climate
August 14, 2013
The Suns magnetic field is expected to undergo a 180-degree flip in the coming 3 to 4
months as its magnetic north and south poles reverse positions.
How does this Magnetic Flip take place?
The outer layers of the Sun consist of a soup of charged particles whose steady motion
influences the alignment of the Suns magnetic field. There are two winds of such
charged particles one moving east-west and the other north-south and these tug at each
other to move the magnetic north and south poles of the Sun thus making them go a full
circle once every 22 years. This period is called a solar cycle which results in
reorientation of the solar dynamo and which is the source of the Suns magnetic
field.
The magnetic field will flip half a circle in the coming months marking the end of 11
years of the 24
th
such cycle on record and once the second pole catches up, the next half
of the cycle will start.
Effects of Magnetic Flip:
It could affect storms on Earth and even disrupt satellites.
During this flip, activity on the stars surface intensifies, producing violent solar
flares and coronal mass ejections.
A weak electric field that rises out of the Sun and pervades the Solar System
experiences small disturbances. As the moving Earth dips in and out of this field,
stormy space weather can be stirred up around Earth.
The Cosmic rays which are high energy particles accelerated to nearly light speed
by supernova explosions and other violent events in the galaxy, could also be
affected and thus influencing cloudiness and the climate on Earth.
Indias launches indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant
August 14, 2013
India launched its first indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant which was a
remarkable moment in the $5 billion project that seeks to enhance the countrys power
and curtail the rising influence of China. INS Vikrant will come into full service in
2018 which will make India the fifth nation to have designed and built its own aircraft
carrier going ahead of China to join an elite club that includes Britain, France, Russia
and the United States.
INS Vikrant
Vikrant, which means courageous or bold in Hindi, is a 40,000-tonne vessel
which will carry Russian built MiG-29 fighter jets and other light aircraft.
Its hull design and some of its machinery is domestically made and most of its
weaponry will be imported as well as its propulsion system which was sourced
from GE in the United States.
Its primary role will only be to defend the naval fleet and it will not be used for
ground attacks.
Its a defence carrier and will attack platforms that are coming to attack our naval
fleet

Jp Singh Page 101

It will be positioned in the Indian Ocean region where the worlds commercial
and economic interests conflate.
In the next 4 years, the ship will be tested after fitting it with weaponry and
machinery
Intermixing of Population happened in India for 2,300 years
August 12, 2013
As per the scientists from the Hyderabad based Centre for Cellular and Molecular
Biology (CCMB) and Harvard Medical School, Indian population was derived from
two major ancestral populations Ancestral North Indians (ANI) and Ancestral South
Indians (ASI) which dont have major genetic differences. The ANI-derived
populations and ASI-derived populations mixed together to form the modern day
population in the long time period of 2300 years. This admixing continued for an
extended period until practice of endogamy became the norm.
The extent of admixture increased among the groups including the isolated tribes like
the Paliyar that live in Kodaikanal Hills and Bhil that are primarily located in
Rajasthan. But some populations like the Vysya from Andhra Pradesh didnt
experience the mixing from neighbouring groups in India for around 3,000 years.
What is ANI and ASI population?
The ANI population is related to West Eurasians (people of Central Asia, the Middle
East, the Caucasus and Europe) where as the ASI population is specifically related to
the indigenous Andaman Islanders.
No significant difference between groups across the Indian population:
As per researchers, Indians as a whole do not have major genetic differences even
though endogamy has been largely practiced for the last 1,900 years. The endogamy in
the respective admixtured populations ensured that no further gene mixture happened
between groups for the last 1,900 years and then later caste came and significantly
reduced the chances of admixture and made it nearly zero.
Recognized NABL labs to test mid day meals
August 11, 2013
Recognized laboratories under the National Accreditation Board for Laboratories
(NABL) will collect the samples to test the microbiological presence/absence of e-coli,
chemical parameters such as moisture content, fats, proteins and calorific value of the
mid day meals. The measure has come after the death of 23 children in a school in
Chhapra in Bihar who died after consuming contaminated food served in the mid-
day meal scheme.
How the mid day meals will be monitored?
Periodic reports and monitoring at the local level through the school monitoring
committees as well as by the State government officials.
An independent monitoring through 41 monitoring institutes such as IIT Chennai,
Visva Bharati, and the XLRI has also been ensured by the Centre.
The Joint Review Missions (JRM) visit States at regular intervals. Presently 7
JRMs have been conducted, and 13 more are planned.
Surprise visits will be made from time to time.
What are the steps taken by the government to improve the quality of mid day
meal?
HRD and Tourism Ministries are working together on imparting training for cooks
through Hotel Management Institutes and the Food Craft Institutes. A 10-day full time

Jp Singh Page 102

course will be organized which will impart knowledge in terms of the caloric and
nutritive values. The course will emphasize on the methods of cooking for retaining the
nutritive value of cooking ingredients, issues of malnutrition and nutrition levels and
the importance of regular washing of hands.
cience and Technology
Researchers produce Worlds first lab-grown beef burger
August 8, 2013
Scientists from the Maastricht University in the Netherlands have produced the first lab-
grown beef burger of the world which is being seen as a step towards food revolution.
The burger was served to the volunteers in London.
What is so special about this Hamburger (Worlds first lab-grown beef burger)?
The worlds first lab-grown beef burger, developed in the lab of Professor Mark
Post of Maastricht University in the Netherlands, weighed 140g with production cost
250000 Euros or 330000 US dollar. The beef used in the burger was developed from the
stem cells extracted from a living cow. As claimed by scientists, when mixed with
breadcrumbs, egg powder and salt, for improving its taste; as well as coloured with red
beetroot juice and saffron; it will taste very much like a usual burger.
How the beef used in the burger (Worlds first lab-grown beef burger) was
produced?
The beef used in the burger was developed by using the stem cells taken from a living
cow. Stem cells, as we know, are the master cells with a unique capability to grow into
multiple types of cells i.e. blood, tissue, muscle, etc. Scientists, then placed these cells
in a nutritional medium to grow into small strands of meat. Thousands of these meat
strands were used for making the burger.
Why there is so much excitement about the in-vitro development of beef-burger?
Many view this development as a step towards food revolution as this success has the
capability to produce meat without actually rearing any animal. The research has the
following prospects:
It can address the concerns of growing food demands due to increasing
population.
It can also alleviate the pressure on environment as doing away with animal
rearing for meat production would also reduce the carbon footprint and also
lessen the pressure on land, water and other resources. (Cattles like pig, cow,
chicken and buffaloes are known to produce methane which is also a Green
House Gas).
A study found that the lab-grown beef makes use of 45% less energy than
average global representative figure for farming cattle. Besides, it also produces
96% less greenhouse gas emissions and requires 99% less land as well.
What is PETAs stance on growing meat in lab?
PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, supports attempts to grow meat in
labs because they say that will greatly diminish the amount of animal suffering. Donor
animals are needed for the muscle cells, but taking those samples doesnt hurt the
animal. One sample can theoretically provide up to 20,000 tons of lab-made meat.





Jp Singh Page 103

Cyber criminals stealing information during tax filing rush: McAfee
August 6, 2013
Cyber security firm McAfee has warned online tax filers to be cautious of the phishing
scams and fake ads which are being perpetrated by cyber criminals to make the most of
income tax e-filing rush to to steal confidential financial data of users.
Cyber criminals try to take advantage of the rush during the last days of e-filing as tax
payers try to meet the deadline set by the I-T department.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes, the administrative authority of the Income-Tax
Department, has extended the deadline for filing returns, both manual and electronic, to
August 5, 2013.
As per McAfee, cyber criminals use phishing scams where an e-mail is sent to a number
of people, saying income-tax refund is available, and once it is clicked, the user is
directed to a website similar to the one owned by Income-Tax Department. Consumers
are then directed to disclose personal financial details, which help scammers empty
their credit card or bank account. These criminals also use fake tax filing ads that claim
to help you to file taxes and direct you to fraudulent websites that steals your financial
data.
McAfee has asked people filing tax returns online not to open any suspicious websites
or emails from an untrustworthy source. The Income-Tax Department does not request
personal information such as PIN numbers, passwords or similar access information for
credit cards, banks or other financial accounts through e-mails.
Research links Climate Change to Human Conflict
August 6, 2013
As per a latest study from University of California, Berkeley which analysed 60
studies on climate change, by 2050, human conflict could rise by 50% due to the
rising temperatures. The study covered all major types of violence and revealed large
and clear changes in human behavior in response to climate.
The research examined human behavior in relation to climate over the past 12,000 years
in order to find a link between hot weather and aggression. It was found that intergroup
conflict soared by 14% and interpersonal violence rose 4% for each temperature rise.
As per the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over the past
century, the Earths average temperature has risen by 1.4F. Although this appears
minute, small average temperature changes translate to large and potentially dangerous
shifts in climate, which researchers have now revealed also creates hostile
environments.
The researchers examined studies from a wide variety of fields including climatology,
archaeology, economics, political science, and psychology to make the study accurate
and valid. It examined various aspects of climate, such as rainfall, drought, and
temperature and cross-analyzed with various forms and degrees of violence in broad
categories. The factors were divided into the following groups with specific links to
historical events: personal violence and crime like murder, assault, rape, and
domestic violence; intergroup violence and political instability like civil wars, riots,
ethnic violence, and land invasions; and instructional breakdowns like abrupt and
major changes in governing institutions or the collapse of entire civilizations.
The studies found that aggression aggravates as high as 16% in anything hostile from
horn-honking to domestic violence, assault, rape, and murder during periods of hotter

Jp Singh Page 104

climates. A temperature rise of just 2F, in fact, could increase intergroup
conflicts, such as civil wars, by over 50%.
How did the researchers discern that heat makes us angrier, especially in designed
studies?
In one of the studies, researchers deliberately caused traffic at a high temperature at a
crossing in Phoenix in order to see whether drivers without air conditioning were more
likely to honk angrily than drivers in climate-controlled vehicles. Results showed that,
indeed, those that were hotter honked more.
India to launch indigenous Aircraft Carrier project
August 4, 2013
India will launch its biggest ever Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) project, in terms
of size and complexity of design, on August 12 at Kochi.
Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) project:
It will be Indias biggest Indigenous Aircraft Carrier warship with a displacement
of 40,000-tonne.
The project will render India to join the select club of nations like the U.S.,
France, Russia and the U.K., who are capable of designing and building
40,000-tonne aircraft carriers.
Being built by the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
It has a length of 260 metres and a maximum breadth of 60 metres.
Propelled by two shafts to attain speeds in excess of 28 knots.
Two take off runways and a landing strip with three arrester wires.
Very high degree of automation for machinery operation, navigation and
survivability.
With the launch of the project, the warship will be fitted with Long Range
Surface to Air Missile (LR SAM) system with multi-function radar and Close-
in Weapon System (CIWS), MiG 29K fighter jets, the naval version of Light
Combat Aircraft (LCA), helicopters, early air warning radar and direction finding
systems.
After extensive sea trials in 2016, IAC will be commissioned by 2018, the time
when Viraat who is currently serving as Indias aircraft carrier, would have
clocked the time for its decommissioning.

Earths runaway heating easy to trigger than earlier believed
August 3, 2013
A study headed by Colin Goldblatt from the University of Victoria, Canada has found
that it may be possible for a planet to experience a runaway greenhouse effect even if it
does not receive a higher amount of solar radiation that is considered necessary to
trigger the event.
What is Runaway Greenhouse Effect and how it can impact Earth?
A runaway greenhouse effect is the uncontrolled heating up of a planets surface
resulting in the rapid evaporation of its water bodies such as oceans, which get
converted to steam and make the planet inhospitable.
What can cause Runaway Greenhouse Effect?
Runaway Greenhouse Effect is caused when the solar radiation absorbed by the planet
exceeds the thermal radiation released by it. In ideal conditions, such as in the case of
Earth, the absorption and radiation levels are balanced resulting in a temperate climate.

Jp Singh Page 105

What did the Goldblatts study on Runaway Greenhouse Effect find?
Dr. Goldblatts study has found that a runaway greenhouse effect can be triggered,
under specific conditions, even on a planet like Earth receiving normal levels of solar
radiation.
As per this study, for any given planet (like Earth) there is a fixed upper limit of thermal
radiation that helps balance the amount of solar radiation absorbed. The study,
conducted using specific computer modeling techniques which have analyzed runaway
greenhouse effects at different temperatures, has found that the threshold level for
thermal radiation is lower than previously thought. Likewise, the solar radiation
levels have been found to be higher than previous estimates. This lower level of thermal
radiation can help cause a runaway greenhouse effect easily on Earth than believed
earlier.
The study compares the findings with planets such as Venus and says that Venus might
have experienced a runaway greenhouse effect in the past and that Earths future is
analogous to Venuss past. But, it may happen only after a million years or more. It
further adds that such an effect is unlikely to happen due to human-induced factors.
Researchers develop CNT-Cu (Carbon Nanotubes and Copper) material using
carbon nanotubes for next-gen conductors
August 3, 2013
Researchers from the National Institute of Advanced Industrial (AIST), Japan, have
developed a new material called CNT-Cu (Carbon Nanotubes and Copper) which
makes possible lighter conductors that can carry larger currents.
Researchers, led by Indian chemist Dr. Subramaniam Chandramouli, have created
this material by embedding carbon nanotubes in copper. It resulted into a new material
CNT-Cu with boosted ampacity to a massive 10,000%, with an electrical
conductivity comparable to that of copper.
What is Ampacity?
Ampacity is the maximum amount of current a conductor can carry before losing its
electrical properties. The larger the ampacity the better is the performance.
Why do we need materials with high ampacity?
A material with higher ampacity and which is simultaneously conductive is required to
withstand, handle and transport the increasing current densities of modern electronics.
What is special with CNT-Cu (Carbon Nanotubes and Copper) ?
CNT-Cu consists of 45% CNTs by volume, and is less dense than a pure copper
conductor by 42%. An advantage of the material is that it reduces the amount of copper
required and provides 100 times higher performance.
How CNT-Cu (Carbon Nanotubes and Copper) is better than copper?
CNT-Cu conductors has an edge over copper conductors in a way that the CNT-Cu
achieves higher ampacity by suppressing electromigration that occurs in copper
wires, where electrons are scattered off their path by copper atoms. As electrons move
inside the conductor, they are often scattered by atoms in their path. As the current
density increases, scattering also increases until, at a threshold called the conductors
rating, the material can no longer conduct the electrons, resulting in electro-migration.
In case of CNT-Cu, the negatively charged particles are channelled to move through a
continuous mesh-like network formed by the nanotubes, averting scattering.



Jp Singh Page 106

Mechanism behind brains ability to pay attention unveiled
August 3, 2013
Researchers from Dartmouths Geisel School of Medicine and the University of
California Davis have decoded the cellular mechanisms behind human brains ability to
pay attention to relevant information while ignoring distractions. Despite much study of
attention in the brain, the cellular mechanisms responsible for the effects of attention
have remained a mystery until now.
What has been revealed by the study by Dartmouths Geisel School of Medicine
and the University of California Davis?
Researchers studied communications between synaptically connected neurons under
conditions where subjects shifted their attention toward or away from visual stimuli that
activated the recorded neurons, sharpen the precision of these signals, and selectively
boost the transmission of attention-grabbing information while reducing the level of
noisy or attention-disrupting information.
In this study, scientist found a new mechanism by which attention shapes perception
by selectively altering presynaptic weights to highlight sensory features among all
the noisy sensory input.
How would the findings by by Dartmouths Geisel School of Medicine and the
University of California Davis help?
Besides expanding our understanding of brain, this study would help people with
attention deficits resulting from brain injury or disease, possibly leading to improved
screening and new treatments.
Government agrees to share classified hydrological data at a cost
August 3, 2013
The government has decided to share classified hydrological data at a cost only if the
user is able to convince a panel about the requirement. The classified data can be
availed by both Indian and foreign users by applying for it.
Why the government has agreed to share hydrological data?
There has been increased demand by the community that statistics collected using
public funds should be made more readily available to all for facilitating rational
debate, better decision making and in meeting societys needs.
As per Hydro-meteorological Data Dissemination Policy 2013:
The classified data will be released for a specific purpose or study and will be
non-transferable.
There is a ban on reproduction of the classified data in any report or publication
or detailed project report.
Only result of analysis and inferences drawn thereof should be published.
How to get access to hydrological data?
Those who want to use the data will have to approach a designated chief engineer of the
Central Water Commission (CWC) with a secrecy undertaking. The official would first
verify the authenticity of the user, the purpose for which the data has been requested
and the minimum amount of data required for the purpose. He will forward the request
along with his recommendations to theClassified Data Release Committee which will
take a final call on the issue.
Indian commercial and foreign users will be provided the classified hydro data at a
cost of Rs 75,000 per site, per annum while the Indian non-commercial users will be
provided with the information free of cost.

Jp Singh Page 107

India divided into 3 regions regarding data dissemination:
1. Region-I: Indus basin and other rivers and their tributaries discharging into
Pakistan
2. Region-II: Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna basin and other rivers and their
tributaries discharging into Bangladesh/Myanmar
3. Region-III: Remaining other rivers and their tributaries.

According to the policy, while the data of Region-I and II are classified, the data of
Region-III is unclassified.
The reservoir water level, live storage position, water quality, groundwater and
meteorological data for all regions are also unclassified.

Google India introduces Start Searching India campaign
August 3, 2013
Google India introduced Start Searching India campaign to help internet users get
the most out of the web with its search tool.
Objective of Start Searching India: To help Indian users save time, by showing
how they can get instant and to the point answers to their most common queries
According to Google e-governance is doing well in Madhya
Pradesh with mponline.comand vyapam.com figuring in the top five web searches.
Indias first DNA Forensic Laboratory established in Gurgaon
August 3, 2013 1 Comment
Global biotechnology company Life Technologies has launched Indias first
private DNA forensics laboratory which is expected to accelerate sampling process
thereby reducing the burden on existing forensic laboratories. The technology based on
DNA testing has widely been accepted as the most effective crime fighting tool among
law enforcement agencies for a variety of applications, including assaults, missing
persons and disaster victim identification.
Benefits of the DNA Forensic Lab:
The lab will reduce the burden on existing forensic system and address the
requirements of DNA database generation for unidentified dead bodies or other
crime investigations.
It will facilitate a broad range of DNA testing including paternity testing, kinship
testing, DNA profiling for database generation, and forensic DNA analysis.
The lab will meet international standards for DNA testing.
ISRO, Tata Motors develop Indias first Hydrogen powered cell bus
July 31, 2013
A hydrogen-powered automobile bus has been developed by the collaboration of Tata
Motors Limited (TML) and ISRO. The two organisations have developed fuel cell
bus for the first time in India.
Hydrogen in bottles at high pressure is stored at the top of the bus and in this vehicle
there will be zero pollution since the product of cold combustion is water. The
hydrogen cells were a spin-off of the cryogenic technology. ISRO has developed a rich
technology in producing, storing and handling gaseous and liquid hydrogen in the last
three decades and which is quite safe indeed.
ISRO mulls to modify transponder allocation norms- the guidelines of SatCom
Policy

Jp Singh Page 108

July 31, 2013
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is cogitating to modify the guidelines of
SatCom Policy related to allocation and pricing of satellite transponders for public and
non-government users.
The guidelines are being revised after consulting ISROs stakeholder departments and
the multi-ministry ICC (Insat Coordination Committee) chaired by DoS Secretary.
Typically the ICC allocates satellite transponders to user groups depending on their
availability and urgency of use.
After the approval by the government ISRO will be able to allocate to different users
by percentages and charge for capacity on its INSAT/GSAT satellites in a much
more rational way than now.
The SatCom Policy threw open the INSAT capacity to non-government users and
allowed lease of capacity on foreign satellites where needed.
Who are the main domestic users of INSAT/GSATs transponders?
ISRO leases 95 of the 263 transponders used by domestic operators. The main users
are:
Doordarshan and All India Radio under the Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting
Private TV channels and commercial Direct-To-Home (DTH) operators
Department of Telecommunications and BSNL for telephone services
Over a lakh VSATs (Very Small Aperture Terminals) that enable Internet
broadband services of large public and private organizations and drive ATMs and
stock exchanges.
India Meteorological Department and social sectors such as distance education,
telemedicine and disaster management also ride their services on Insat/GSATs.
The Ministry of Defence, the Armed Forces and its various agencies have also
taken on new dimensions and are demanding bigger, serious and exclusive
allocations.

INSAT-3D to enhance the weather observation
July 31, 2013
Indias newest satellite INSAT-3D which was put in orbit on a European rocket is
expected to increase the weather observation and forecasting, disaster warning
systems and also enhance land and sea surface monitoring over the sub-continent
and the Indian Ocean region.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has planned to switch on the
meteorology instruments on the satellite and test them extensively before starting the
operations. The satellite will then have a period matching the Earths 24-hour rotation
and will be geosynchronous over the sub-continent. Prior to it the scientists will start
the first of four orbit manoeuvres from the Master Control Facility at Hassan,
Karnataka. They will push the spacecrafts initial elliptical orbit into a circular one
that will be nearly 36,000 km above the ground at 82 degrees East longitude.
About INSAT-3D:
ISRO spent around Rs. 200 crore to build the satellite and around Rs. 350 crore
on its launch and insurance costs.
The metsat supplements the decade-old and fading Kalpana-1 and INSAT-3A
with four sophisticated payloads.

Jp Singh Page 109

The six-channel imager takes weather pictures of the Earth with better resolution.
The 19-channel sounder gives layered vertical profiles of temperature,
humidity and integrated ozone.
The data relay transponder picks and relays met, moisture and sea related
information from automatic data collection platforms placed at remote
uninhabited locations on to a processing centre for generating accurate forecasts.
SAR device: The Search And Rescue device picks up and relays distress alert
signals from users on sea, land and air to an ISRO centre in Bangalore and
enables speedy detection and rescue of such people.
New National Antibiotics Policy to handle increasing antibiotics resistance
July 31, 2013
The Union Health Ministry is considering a new National Antibiotics Policy to
handle increasing antibiotics resistance. The policy is on anvil at a time when India has
failed to respond to the urgent need to regulate the sale and use of antibiotics, track the
incidence of resistance or improve sanitation.
Key points on the proposed National Antibiotics Policy:
Intends to ban on the counter sale of antibiotics and to use high end antibiotics
only in tertiary care centres.
It will aim to prevent the further development of resistant strains.
It ideates to establish a national antibiotic resistance surveillance system will be
established with representation from all regions in the country, government and
private hospitals.
MPA signed for the construction of Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT)
July 31, 2013
Five countries participating in the project TMT- Canada, China, India, Japan and the
U.S. have inked Master Partnership Agreement (MPA) for the construction of the
Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) costing $1.5 billion.
Main promoters of Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project:
The main promoters of the international project are Caltech and the University of
California in the U.S. and the Association of Canadian Universities for Research in
Astronomy (ACURA), with China, India and Japan providing additional financial and
technical support. The telescope is expected to become operational in 2022.
Major Participating Institutes in the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project from
India:
Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)
Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCCA), Pune
Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital
Indias Contribution in the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project:
India has 10% share in the project, which implies a financial assurance of about
Rs. 1,000 core. The Department of (DST) and the Department of Atomic
Energy (DAE) will jointly fund the Indian component.
Indian astronomers will get observational time in proportion to Indias share in
the total project cost
Indias contributions will include fabrication of edge sensors, which sense
relative displacement of segments due to gravity and temperature while tracking
objects in the sky.

Jp Singh Page 110

India has the responsibility to build the entire actuator system to provide the
best possible image of objects in the sky.
Godrej and Avasarala companies have taken up segment support assembly, a
very complicated system on which the primary mirror segments sit.
India is also designing a mirror coating system and exploring the possibilities of
setting up a unit to polish 100 segments to the project .India may also provide a
part of the 492 mirror segments.
About the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project:

What is so special about
Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project?
It will be worlds largest optical and infrared telescope which is proposed to
be located just below the summit at Mauna Kea at a height of 4,050 m in
Hawaii.
It will be 81 times more sensitive than the current telescopes of its kind and
resolve objects by a factor of 3 times better than the largest ground-based
telescopes that are available at present across the world.
It will be the first ground-based telescope to incorporate the technology of
Adaptive Optics (AO) as an integral component of the telescope.
What is Adaptive Optics?
AO is the system designed to sense atmospheric turbulence in real time, make the
appropriate corrections to the beam and enable true image on the ground limited only
by optical diffraction.
E-surveillance to monitor various tiger habitats
July 31, 2013
India plans to start electronic surveillance of some of the tiger habitats using high
definition cameras as the tiger deaths each year are increasing mainly due to poaching
and poisoning.
With the E-surveillance the pilot study in the Kalagarh range of the Corbett
National Park was quite satisfactory so the National Tiger Conservation Authority
(NTCA) has decided to expand E-surveillance to Assams Kaziranga Natonal Park,
Madhya Pradeshs Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary and the Ramnagar division
surrounding Corbett.
How will tiger E-surveillance help?
The surveillance involves putting into use high resolution thermal and infrared cameras
mounted on towers to capture image of objects weighing more than 20 kg in a range of
3-5 km and generate alerts if the boundary is crossed. It will also keep an eye on
unauthorized people entering into the tiger habitat areas and tigers straying into human
habitat. It is a fool-proof anti-poaching system that gathers information, does
processing, filtering and then sends alerts.

Variations in structure of brain arteries cause Migraine
July 31, 2013
Researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania have
discovered that variations in arterial anatomy of brain lead to the asymmetries in
cerebral blood flow which in turn leads to Migraine. Previously, it was believed that
the root cause of migraine was dilation of blood vessels in head.

Jp Singh Page 111

What are the Causes of Migraine?
The structural alterations of the blood supply to brain can increase the
vulnerability to alterations in the cerebral blood flow which leads to the abnormal
neuronal activity starting migraine.
The arterial supply of blood to brain receives protection from series of the
connections between major arteries called Circle of Willis. People suffering
from migraine and the migraine with aura will mostly have missing circle of
Willis.
People suffering from migraine have difference in the blood vessels structure.
These differences attribute to changes in blood flow in brain. It is because of
these changes that the migraine triggers.
What are the effects of Migraine?
The networks of arteries which supply the blood flow to brain are incomplete in
people suffering from migraines.
Some people also feel dehydrated as a result of their severe headaches.
People suffering from migraines with aura have visual symptoms like seeing
wavy lines, spots or distortions.
Only 1% of students opted for research Programmes: UGC
July 31, 2013
As per the higher education figures released by the University Grants Commission
(UGC), in 2011-12 only 1% of students enrolled for research programmes as compared
to 86% who received graduation degree in 2012. As per statistics, just 12% received
post graduation degree and only 1% went for PhD degrees. Diploma and certificate
holders also constituted just 1%.
Key Statistical findings of UGC in regards to PhD programmes:
Out of the total PhD degrees awarded in 2010-11
5,232 (32.5%) received it for research in science subjects. Science included
ayurveda, dentistry, homoeopathy, nursing, pharmacy, public health or social
preventive medicine, unani, tibiya, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and
siddha.
5,037 (31.3%) for arts subjects including humanities, social sciences and
languages.
Engineering and technology subjects were the next most popular field for
pursuing research, with 10% completing it.
Medicine, agriculture and law had about 3% of the total research degree
holders.
Library and information sciences, fine arts, journalism and mass communication,
physical education and social work, comprised the remaining 4% degree
awardees.
TRPs give way to Television Viewership in Thousands (TVTs)
July 31, 2013
Broadcasters, advertisers, ad agencies and Television Audience Measurement (TAM)
Media Research the sole agency which measures viewership, negotiated in terms of
Television viewership. Television viewership will now be measured not on the basis
of points but on absolute numbers with Television Rating Points (TRPs) giving way
to Television Viewership in Thousands (TVTs).

Jp Singh Page 112

Earlier Big television networks planned to move out of the Television Audience
Measurement (TAM) system and either unsubscribe or not renewing their
subscriptions. After that repetitive negotiations led to a deal between big networks and
TAM on providing data on a monthly basis.
What are the issues regarding Television Audience Measurement (TAM) rating
system?
As per Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) problems with the TAM
system included:
A non-transparent methodology
Limited sample size
Cross-holdings b/w rating agencies and broadcasters and advertising agencies
Lack of a credible complaint mechanism.
Why these new Viewership Norms as per Television Viewership in Thousands
(TVTs)?
In order to address the complaints of television networks that stated TRPs measured in
relative terms in points do not accurately present the growth in viewership. TVTs will
be the sole measuring standard in the public domain. TVT rolling average will be
provided every week. This is statistically more stable data. But for internal
evaluation, the percentage of television viewership rating weekly will be provided to
advertisers and agencies. All future changes in audience measurement will be made
based on inputs by a joint technical committee of the industry body, the Broadcasting
Audience Research Council.
About Television Audience Measurement (TAM) :
TAM Media Research is one of the two Television Audience
Measurement analysis firms of India (the other being aMap). Appointed by the Joint
Industry stakeholders of Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA), Indian Broadcast
Foundation (IBF) and Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) in 1998,
the reason for being for TAM is to be the central Industry provider of Media and
Consumer Insights to the various stakeholders of the Indian Media
and Entertainment Industry Advertisers & Marketers, Media Owners, Media Agencies
and the Academia.
Besides measuring TV Viewership, since the year 2000, TAM has been monitoring
Advertising Expenditure of various Advertisers, Brands and Product Categories across
Television Channels, Print & Radio through its division AdEx India.
Biologist Prof. Obaid Siddiqi who revealed Stop Codons passed away
July 31, 2013
The renowned biologist, Prof. Obaid Siddiqi (81) died due to injuries after meeting an
accident. He was known for his pioneer work of identifying the process that how taste
and smell are detected and coded in Brain.
About Prof. Obaid Siddiqui:
Born in 1932 in UP, received his education at Aligarh Muslim University.
He did his Ph.D. from University of Glasgow, where he worked on microbial
genetics with Harbor Pontecorvo.
He was the National Research Professor at the National Centre for Biological
Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, in Bangalore.
In 1961, Siddiqi and Alan Garen discovered suppressor of nonsense mutations in
the gene for alkaline phosphatase. This work led to the elucidation of the stop

Jp Singh Page 113

codons in the genetic code and the mechanism of chain termination during
protein synthesis.
What are Stop Codons?
In the genetic code, a Stop Codon (or Termination Codon) is a nucleotide triplet
within messenger RNA that signals a termination of translation. Proteins are based on
polypeptides, which are unique sequences of amino acids. Most codons in messenger
RNA (from DNA) correspond to the addition of an amino acid to a growing polypeptide
chain, which may ultimately become a protein. Stop codons signal the termination of
this process by binding release factors, which cause the ribosomal subunits to
disassociate, releasing the amino acid chain.
In the standard genetic code, there are several stop codons:
In RNA:
UAG (amber)
UAA (ochre)
UGA (opal)
In DNA:
TAG (amber)
TAA (ochre)
TGA (opal or umber)

Only 1% of students opt for research Programmes: UGC
July 31, 2013
As per the higher education figures released by the University Grants Commission
(UGC), in 2011-12 only 1% of students enrolled for research programmes as compared
to 86% who received graduation degree in 2012. As per statistics, just 12% received
post graduation degree and only 1% went for PhD degrees. Diploma and certificate
holders also constituted just 1%.
Key Statistical findings:
Out of the total PhD degrees awarded in 2010-11
5,232 (32.5%) received it for research in Science subjects. Science included
ayurveda, dentistry, homoeopathy, nursing, pharmacy, public health or social
preventive medicine, unani, tibiya, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and
siddha.
5,037 (31.3%) for arts subjects including humanities, social sciences and
languages.
Engineering and Technology subjects were the next most popular field for
pursuing research, with 10% completing it.
Medicine, Agriculture and Law had about 3% of the total research degree
holders.
Library and information sciences, fine arts, journalism and mass communication,
physical education and social work, comprised the remaining 4% degree
awardees.
INSAT-3D and Alphasat satellites launched successfully
July 28, 2013
European space consortium Arianespaces Ariane 5 rocket launched INSAT-
3D and Alphasat satellites from the spaceport of Kourou in French Guiana, giving a
boost to weather forecasting and disaster warning services.

Jp Singh Page 114

About INSAT-3D:
Designed to provide meteorological observation and monitoring of land and
ocean surfaces.
INSAT-3D also carried the newly developed 19 Channel Sounder, the first
such payload to be flown on an ISRO satellite mission. It will perform weather
monitoring through its atmospheric sounding system, which provides vertical
profiles of temperature, humidity and integrated ozone from surface to top of the
atmosphere.
It will provide continuity to earlier missions and further augment the capability to
provide various meteorological as well as search and rescue services.
The Data Relay Transponder (DRT) will be used to receive meteorological,
hydrological and oceanographic data from remote, uninhabited locations over the
coverage area from Data Collection Platforms (DCPs) like automatic weather
station, automatic rain gauge and agro met stations.
It is equipped with a Search and Rescue payload that picks up and relays the alert
signals originating from the distress beacons of maritime, aviation and land based
users to the Indian Mission Control Centre located at Isro Telemetry, Tracking
and Command Network here.
Who will be the major users of Satellite Aided Search and Rescue service in India?
The major users of Satellite Aided Search and Rescue service in India are Indian
Coast Guard, Airports Authority of India, directorate general of shipping, defence
services and fishermen.
What will be the expanse of service region of INSAT-3D?
The Indian service region includes a large part of the Indian Ocean region
covering India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Seychelles, Sri
Lanka and Tanzania for rendering distress alert services.
What are Alphasat satellites?
Alphasat is Europes largest telecommunication satellite-ever manufactured
and results from a large-scale public-private partnership between the European
Space Agency and Inmarsat.
Curiosity rover confirms Martian air mostly contains CO2
July 25, 2013
The Curiosity rover sent by NASA which landed on Mars on August 6, 2012 with the
aim to explore the Red Planet has confirmed that its air is made mostly of carbon
dioxide with hints of other gases.
This observation is very close to what the twin Viking Landers in the late 1970s
detected from Martian meteorites the rock fragments that fell to Earth. The scientist
were stunned as Viking found nitrogen to be the second most abundant gas in the
Martian air but Curiositys measurements discovered a nearly equal abundance of
nitrogen and argon which is a stable noble gas. The difference in the observation might
be because of the different tools used.
Quest to resolve Mars Methane gas mystery
Scientists have not been able to solve the puzzle of methane gas on Mars. Several years
ago, telescopes on Earth detected a surprising belch of methane in three regions in the
Martian western hemisphere. However, the Curiosity team had not reported any
definitive smell of methane near the landing site. Since then, the rover has taken several
more air samples. To solve this mystery NASA is set to launch a Mars-orbiting

Jp Singh Page 115

spacecraft called Maven. The craft will target the Martian atmosphere to determine if it
exists and the abundance and whether that varies by year or location.
Huawei Technologies working on Fifth Generation (5G) Technology
July 24, 2013
Chinese equipment maker Huawei Technologies is working on the Fifth Generation
(5G) which will be probably available for use by 2020. Samsung has also promulgated
that it has tested 5G technology and it will be ready for commercial use by 2020.
Advantages of 5G Technology :
Expansion of connectivity by providing possibilities for billions of connections.
Offer people to have a fibre network like they experience on a wireless
connection.
It can provide speed of 10 GBps, which is 100 times faster than the mobile
technology used these days.

Worlds first ever mission to Moons South Pole Planned for 2016
July 24, 2013
The International Lunar Observatory Association and Moon Express announced
first mission to the south pole of the moon in 2016 at NASA Lunar Science Institute
conference at NASA s Ames Research Center.
Objective of the Mission:
It will be a scientific as well as commercial mission.
To install a permanent telescope on the lunar surface to assist professional
research.
To deliver the International Lunar Observatory (ILO) aboard a Moon
Express Robotic Lander.
Moon Express is aiming to discover the moons South Pole for mineral
resources and water. Lunar probes have provided substantial indication of
mineral and volatile deposits in the Moons southern polar region where energy
and resources may be plentiful.
International Lunar Observatory Instrument and its use:
ILOA and Space Age Publishing Company have been founded by Steve
Durst.
ILO which is a 2 meter dish antenna will help in carrying out International
astrophysical observations and communications from the lunar surface thus
providing commercial broadcasting, scientific research and enabling Galaxy 21st
Century education and citizen science on the Moon.
ILO will display the scientific study of the galaxy, moon, earth, sun and
stars The ILO and its originator will have an internet based access and control
system.
Space Age Publishing Company
It aims to broadcast its Lunar Enterprise Daily and Space Calendar weekly via
the ILO. This mission would help in humanitys growth as a multi-world species.
Moon Express will send a sequence of robotic missions to the Moon in support of
commerce science and exploration starting in 2015.



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Benefit for Coconut Sector as Tapping Unfermented Sap or Neera from
Coconut approved by Kerala Government
July 21, 2013
Tapping unfermented sap or Neera from the coconut was approved by the Government
of Kerala all over the state. As a part of the pilot project Neera tapping will take place
in each and every district all over Kerala in units of 1500 coconut trees. The
federations as well as the companies that are associated to Coconut Development
Board will be permitted to produce Neera. Packaging of Neera will be totally free from
the alcoholic content, this will be ensured via technological advances. For the purpose
of production of neera, Abkari Laws will also be amended.
What is Neera or Pandaneer or Sweet Toddy?
Neera (padaneer in Tamil Nadu) also called sweet toddy is the non-alcoholic drink
which would benefit coconut sector. Neera is refrigerated, stored and distributed by
semi-government agencies. It contains many nutrients including potash. It is a delicious
health drink and a rich source of sugars, minerals and vitamins.
Palm sap begins fermenting instantly after collecting, because of natural yeasts in the
pores of pot and air (ofttimes spurred by residual yeast left in the collecting container).
In two hours, fermentation yields an aromatic wine of up to 4% alcohol content, gently
intoxicating and sweet. The wine may be left to ferment longer, up to a day, to produce
a stronger, more sour and acidic taste, which some individuals favour.
Longer fermentation yields vinegar instead of stronger wine.
Scientist engineer Functional blood vessels in mice made from stem cells
July 21, 2013
Scientists from Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, and Harvard Stem Institute,
Harvard University have been able to engineer stable and functional blood vessels in
mice using induced Pluripotent Stem (iPS) cells taken from skin of healthy people
and those with Type I diabetes. The blood vessels lasted for 280 days in the brain of the
mice.
How was the functional blood vessel created?
Scientist used induced Pluripotent Stem (iPS) cells taken from skin of healthy people
and those with Type I diabetes. These cells produced vascular precursor cells
endothelial precursor cells and mesenchymal precursor cells from iPS cells. While
endothelial cells form the inner lining of blood vessels, mesenchymal cells provide
structural stability. Then they were grown in a dish in a medium which provided the
nutriments and suitable environment. After the cells attained a certain optimum growth
stage forming an engineered construct, it was then transferred onto the brain and
dorsal skin of the mice and visualized with a microscope. It was also subcutaneously
injected into the backs of the animals. The mice with subcutaneously injected construct
were sacrificed (killed) after two weeks. Even within this short period, it had formed
blood vessels and connected with the animals vessels. The presence of mouse RBCs in
the engineered vessels is proof that blood had flowed through them.
How would it help in future?
This work is proof of concept demonstration that vascular precursor cells endothelial
precursor cells and mesenchymal precursor cells from iPS cells can be used to
engineer blood vessel. This study holds great promise to restore blood flow, especially
in the case of Type II diabetic patients with ischemia in the foot.

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President launches Kisaan Portal- aimed at reaching Information, Advisories,
Services to 12 Crore Farmers
July 19, 2013
President Pranab Mukherjee launched a Kisaan Portal for sending SMS through
mobile phones to the farmers across the nation. This initiative will enable the
farmers to take informed decision pertaining to different aspects of farming and weather
forecasts. It has been set up to spread information, advisories and services through SMS
to more than 12o million farmers across the country. To access the service, farmers will
have to register themselves by calling Kisaan Call Centre on the toll free number 1800-
180-1551 or through the web portal.
What are the key benefits of the SMS Advisories from Kisaan Portal?
The key advantages include:
It will help farmers in taking informed decisions relating to different aspects of
farming including crop production and marketing, animal husbandry, dairying
and fisheries.
The farmers can customize the SMS service to get advisories relevant to their
specific requirements.
Weather forecast SMS and alerts will enable farmers in planning, farming
operations effectively and taking the best suited action to deal with adverse
weather conditions.
Advisories on disease/pest outbreak will also assist the farmers to take quick
actions to safeguard their crops and animals.
Advisories on best practices, such as selection of better suited crop variety/
animal breed, will lead to better farm productivity and enhanced income to the
farmers.
Farmers will be informed about the market which will give the farmer better
bargaining power which in turn help farmers in taking better decisions about sale
of his produce.
The SMS service will also include soil test results, selection of fertilizer and its
dosage, and also information on various programmes so that farmers can make
the best use of assistance and know-how being made available by the
Government.

Zc(3900): Scientists find evidence of existence of a new four-quark particle
July 19, 2013
Particle physicists performing experiments at the Belle particle detector in Japan and in
BESIII detector in China have found evidence of the existence of a four-quark
particle named Zc(3900).
About Zc(3900):
Composed of two quarks and two antiquarks.
A hadron, a type of subatomic particle made of quarks, believed to be the first
tetraquark that has been observed experimentally.
A decay product of the previously observed anomalous Y(4260) particle.
In turn decays into a charged pion () and a J/ meson. This is consistent with
the Zc(3900) containing four or more quarks.
What are Quarks?

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A quark is an elementary particle and a fundamental constituent of matter. Quarks
combine to form composite particles called hadrons, the most stable of which
are protons and neutrons, the components of atomic nuclei. Due to a phenomenon
known as color confinement, quarks are never directly observed or found in isolation;
they can be found only within hadrons, such as baryons (of which protons and neutrons
are examples), and mesons.For this reason, much of what is known about quarks has
been drawn from observations of the hadrons themselves.
What are the differnt types of Quarks?
There are six types of quarks flavors: up, down, strange, charm, bottom, and
top.
Up and down quarks have the lowest masses of all quarks. The heavier quarks rapidly
change into up and down quarks through a process of particle decay. Because of this, up
and down quarks are generally stable and the most common in the universe, whereas
strange, charm, top, and bottom quarks can only be produced in high
energy collisions (such as those involving cosmic rays and in particle accelerators).
Quarks have various intrinsic properties, including electric charge, color charge, mass,
and spin. Quarks are the only elementary particles in the Standard Model of particle
physics to experience all four fundamental interactions, also known as fundamental
forces (electromagnetism, gravitation, strong interaction, and weak interaction), as well
as the only known particles whose electric charges are not integer multiples of
the elementary charge.
Quarks have three kinds of charges which are characterized by a quantum number
called colour (as three kinds of primary colours exist).
What is Quantum Chromodynamics or QCD?
The theory describing the strong interaction of quarks is called Quantum
Chromodynamics or QCD.
What is antiquark?
For every quark flavor there is a corresponding type of antiparticle, known as
anantiquark, that differs from the quark only in that some of its properties
have equal magnitude but opposite sign.
40% of global population is online: ITU
July 19, 2013
As per the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), nearly 40% of the global
population or 2.7 billion people are already online in 2013 while India still stands far
with around 13% Internet penetration with roughly 160 million users.
As per ITU:
The percentage of people online in developing and developed world is 31% and
77% respectively.
Europe, with 75% Internet penetration, is the region with the highest Internet
penetration rate.
The US, with 61% penetration, is positioned at the second spot amongst regions.
Africa has nearly 16% of its citizens online only half the penetration rate of
Asia-Pacific, where one out of every three (33%) citizens has access to the
Internet.
More men than women have access to the Internet, but the distinction is not
sharp.
Globally, 37% of all women are online, compared with 41% of all men.

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The gender gap is more marked in the developing world, where 16% less women
than men use the Internet, compared with only 2% less women than men in the
developed world.
41% or nearly 750 million households are connected to the Net by 2013.
Nearly half of these households are in the developing world, where household
Internet penetration is close to 28%.
78% of households in the developed world are online.
In 2013, around 1.1 billion homes globally, of which 90% are in the developing
world, are yet to be connected to the Internet.
Europe and Africa are the regions with the highest and lowest household Internet
penetrations respectively.
About 77% households in Europe in contrast to extreme low of 7% in Africa.
With an annual growth rate of 27%, Africas Internet penetration grew fastest
between 2009 and 2013.
India is expected to double its Internet users from 160 million to 330 million by
2015.
Indias National Telecom Policy ideates for 175 million broadband subscribers
by 2017 and 600 million by 2020.
Prominent gastroenterologist Rangabashyam passed away
July 19, 2013
Renowned surgical gastroenterologist, surgeon and teacher, N. Rangabashyam, passed
away.
About Dr. Rangabashyam
Dr. Rangabashyam was a groundbreaker in the field of surgical gastroenterology and
proctology that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the
colon, rectum, and anus in India. Celebrated for his achievements by reputed
institutions across the world, Dr. Rangabashyam started his distinguished career with a
brief work in general surgery at Thanjavur. He joined Madras Medical College where
he was appointed Professor of Gastroenterology.
Unique Achievements of Dr. Rangabashyam:
He was the first person to start a separate department for Surgical
Gastroenterology in Thanjavur, and later became its head.
He also started the first M.Ch. (Surgical Gastroenterology) degree course in
India.
He was the first to start ostomy department at MMC, enterostomal therapy
diploma for nurses.
He was the first to introduce staplers in surgery in the country, perform
laparostomies, and one of the pioneers of hepatobiliary surgery in the
country.
He made major contributions in the field of colitis, bowel cancer and other
gastro-intestinal cancers, portal hypertension and bowel disease in the tropics.
He contributed chapters to the Oxford Textbook of Surgery and in the Recent
Advances in Surgery series.





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IOE3-Kanban: 100-megapixel camera developed by China
July 19, 2013
What is IOE3-Kanban?
IOE3-Kanban, is the name of the camera developed by the Institute of Optics and
Electronics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAC). Developers claim that it
has a 100-megapixel resolution which makes it Chinas highest pixel camera.
What are the unique features of IOE3-Kanban?
The camera is capable of producing images with 10,240 x 10,240 pixels camera and can
used to produce high-resolution imaging in the fields of aerial mapping, disaster
monitoring and intelligent transportation systems. Intelligent transportation system is
aimed at providing innovative services relating to different modes of transport and
traffic management. The camera is small and light, with its widest part measuring only
19.3 cm and it can be used at temperatures ranging from minus 20 degree C to 55
degree C.
What is a megapixel ?
1 megapixel = 1,000,000 pixels.
Megapixel is a term used not only for the number of pixels in an image, but also
to express the number of image sensor elements of digital cameras or the number
of display elements of digital displays

Founder of Bose Corporation, Amar Bose passed away
July 19, 2013
Amar Gopal Bose (83), Indian-American founder, Chairman and academic behind the
revolutionary sound systems of Bose Corporation, passed away in Wayland,
Massachusetts.
About Amar Gopal Bose:
Born on November 2, 1929, in Philadelphia, to an American schoolteacher and Noni
Gopal Bose, a freedom fighter and Calcutta University physicist who fled to the U.S. in
1920 after being imprisoned for protesting British rule in India.
Did his bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees in electrical engineering at the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Founded Bose Corporation which brought sound systems with high-end
acoustic features.
Invented stereo loudspeakers that would reproduce, in a domestic setting, the
dominantly reflected sound field that characterizes the listening space of the
audience in a concert hall.
Later psychoacoustics became the hallmark of his company.
Was an Indian American academic and entrepreneur, an electrical engineer and
sound engineer.
Was a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
What is Psychoacoustics ?
Psychoacoustics is the scientific study of sound perception i.e. a branch of science
studying the psychological and physiological responses associated with sound
(including speech and music).




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In News: Solar Impulse
July 17, 2013
Solar Impulse has been in news recently for completing a transcontinental trip across
the US, despite a rip in the fabric of one wing.
Solar Impulse is a Swiss long-range solar powered aircraft project developed at
the cole Polytechnique Fdrale de Lausanne. The aircraft took off from Mountain
View, California on May 3, 2013 and took a coast-to-coast journey across the domestic
United States before touching down at John F. Kennedy International Airport in
New York on July 6, 2013.
Who were the pilots for Solar Impulse?
Swiss pilot Andre Borschberg and fellow pilot Bertrand Piccard piloted the aircraft. The
men had taken turns flying the spindly, long-winged plane across the country.
Features of Solar Impulse:
Powered by 12,000 solar cells
Flies in the dark by reaching high altitudes during the day and gliding downward
over long distances by night
Uses no fossil fuels
Flying speed of around 70 kilometers per hour
Runs on 4 electric propellers powered by solar cells mounted on the planes 63-
meter wingspan
Drawbacks of Solar Impulse:
Tiny cockpit
Vulnerability to turbulence
Lack of a toilet
Future Plans for Solar Impulse:
The current aircraft model, the HB-SIA, is soon to be phased out as the Swiss team
prepares test flights in 2014 of the second-generation aircraft, the HB-SIB. The next
plane is expected to be 10% larger, with more power, reliability, an auto-pilot function
and a toilet so that pilots can make the four to six-day long trips that will be part of its
journey across the world in 2015.
AERB gives not to Kudankulam first Unit
July 17, 2013
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has given green signal for
controlled fission process or First Approach to Criticality (FAC) for the first unit
of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu.
The FAC is a significant step towards the starting of power generation. The approval
was given after a thorough review of associated safety aspects. This clearance for the
FAC, however, does not mean the commissioning of the plant. Many low-power tests
will have to be done to verify the conformance of the reactors characteristics to design
objectives. The AERB would review the results of the tests before giving a go-ahead for
the next stage of commissioning, which would follow a phased increase in the power
level of the reactor.
EC mulls over to deploy EVMs with VVPAT
July 15, 2013
The Election Commission (EC) is cogitating on the option of deploying Electronic
Voting Machines (EVMs) with Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) in
some constituencies as it will deal with the herculean task of conducting Legislative

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Assembly polls in Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Mizoram
before the end of 2013. To implement this, the EC will have to amend the rules relating
to EVMs and this has to be done by the Law and Justice Ministry based on the
recommendations of the Commission.
What is Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) or Verified Paper
Record (VPR)?
Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) or Verified Paper Record (VPR) is a
method of providing feedback to voters using a ballotless voting system. A VVPAT is
intended as an independent verification system for voting machines designed to allow
voters to verify that their vote was cast correctly, to detect possible election fraud or
malfunction, and to provide a means to audit the stored electronic results. VVPAT was
jointly developed by Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) and Bharat
Electronics Limited (BEL) and the model had already undergone field trials twice.
After the improvement made in the VVPAT, a voter who exercises his vote through the
ballot unit of the EVM can physically see the printout of the vote cast by him. The
name of the candidate, his/her election symbol and his/her serial number in the ballot
will be displayed in the printout, although this cannot be taken home by the voter.

Telegram services in India come to an end
July 14, 2013
July 14, 2013 was the last day for the legendary 163-year old Telegram service in India.
BSNL who had been providing this service terminated it on the account of losses in
sustaining the service which had become redundant in the age of mobile phones and
internet.
Important point in the history of Telegram:
It was Sir William Brooke OShaughnessy, a physician at the Calcutta Medical College,
who went to Lord Dalhousie and spoke about the necessity of telegram services in
1848. The work to lay telegraph lines began in November 1850 b/w Alipore Telecom
Factory in Calcutta (now Kolkata) and the Diamond Harbour Post Office. The service
was declared open for general public in February 1955.
Study reveals congenital anomalies linked to consanguine marriages
July 12, 2013
A study conducted in the U.K. throws light over the suspicion those marriages b/w
blood relations might lead to health issues for the child. The study, in a detailed analysis
of the issue involving over 11,000 children, born out of consanguineous marriages,
revealed congenital anomalies in 386 of them. This figure of 3% is in contrasts with the
1.6% in children born of out of non-blood-relations unions. The researchers termed the
babies analyzed under the study as Born in Bradford to obtain these results. Bradford
is a small area in the UK where Pakistani Muslims constitute 16.8 per cent of the
population. A close knit group, they practice consanguinity; 75% of them marry first
cousins.
What can be the possible defects in babies born through consanguine marriages?
These babies could have a multiplicity of congenital problems. Heart problems top the
list, followed by nervous disorders, limb anomalies and so forth.
Why problems occur in babies born through consanguine marriages ?

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The problem in such close relative marriages surfaces when one of the partners carries a
defect in any of the genes associated with some form of illness. When a person marries
within the community with one who may also have such a family defect, the child
inherits two copies of this faulty gene, and thus has the defect. But when a person
marries outside the community, he/she bring in genes from a much larger gene pool,
and the odds that the child will inherit the problem reduce remarkably.
Scientists identify molecular mechanisms causing glaucoma
July 12, 2013
In an important finding, scientists have identified two molecular level mechanisms that
lead to glaucoma.
What is Glaucoma?
It is often referred to as a silent eye disease is the second most common cause of
blindness in the world. It is an eye disease that causes progressive damage to the optic
nerve at the point where it leaves the eye to deliver information to the brain.
Causes of Glaucoma:
Besides old age, several risk factors cause it family history, ethnic background, high
intra-ocular pressure and high blood pressure. Long-term usage of steroids could also
cause the disease.
Ocular hypertension (increased pressure within the eye) is the most important risk
factor in most glaucomas.
Why Glaucoma is a more serious disease than Cataract?
Unlike in cataract, which is the leading cause for blindness, loss of vision caused by
glaucoma cannot be regained by therapeutic intervention.
What are the findings for Glaucoma?
Scientists at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), who studied the
molecular mechanism of glaucoma in collaboration with L.V. Prasad Eye Institute,
Hyderabad, found that mutations in certain genes are primarily responsible for
glaucoma. Besides, environmental factors too contribute. One of the mutated genes
causing glaucoma was OPTN which codes for protein optineurin. OPTN was one of
the genes associated with glaucoma where intra-ocular pressure was not involved. An
alteration in this gene (M98K) was earlier associated with glaucoma only in South
Asian population. This alteration induces cell death in retinal ganglion cells.
Scientists have also enhanced the understanding of the process of autophagy, which was
essential to maintain healthy cells. For instance, they were able to check cell death by
blocking the enhanced activity of autophagy using chemical inhibitors.
How the findings on Glaucoma can help?
Understanding the molecular mechanism would go a long way in devising strategies for
treating and preventing further damage. Scientists believe that by arresting ganglion cell
death, further damage can be arrested and residual vision saved even after the onset of
glaucoma.
Note: While Cataract is the leading cause of blindness in India, Glaucoma is
fourth main cause.





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Great Barrier Reef in poor health, admits Australia
July 12, 2013
As per the report released by the Environment Ministry of Australia, the conditions at
the Great Barrier Reef were poor as it faces UNESCO threats to downgrade its
heritage status over concerns about pollution and development.
What has been the major cause of decline in Great Barrier Reefs health?
The report shows that the reefs health has declined since 2009 due to cyclones and
floods, despite progress on reducing agricultural runoff.
Despite decrease in nitrogen (by 7%); pesticides (by 15%); sediment (by 6%); and
pollutants key to outbreaks of devastating crown-of-thorns starfish that prey on corals
(by 13%), the reef is in trouble.
As per the report, intense flooding in 2010-2011 followed by powerful cyclone Yasi
had badly damaged the worlds largest coral reef, degrading water quality and depleting
overall cover by 15% and full recovery of the reef will take decades.
A study published in 2012 had revealed that coral cover had more than halved due to
storms, predatory starfish outbreaks and bleaching linked to climate change over the
past 27 years. Intense tropical cyclones were responsible for much of the damage,
accounting for 48%, with the coral-feeding starfish linked to 42%.
It is noticeable that UNESCO has warned to downgrade the reefs world heritage status
to declare it at-risk in 2014 if there is no significant action on rampant coastal and
resources development seen as a danger to its survival.

Experts highlight potential of cassava as biofuel crop
July 12, 2013
Experts participating in the International Conference on Tropical Roots and Tubers
organized by the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI) and the Indian
Society for Root Crops (ISRC) have highlighted the evolving potential of cassava as
feedstock for the production of bioethanol as fuel.
What is Cassava?
Cassava is a crop cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its
edible starchy, tuberous root, a major source of carbohydrates. It is the third-largest
source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. Cassava is a major
staple food in the developing world, providing a basic diet for over half a billion people.
It is one of the most drought-tolerant crops, capable of growing on marginal
soils. Nigeria is the worlds largest producer of cassava.
How Cassava can be used as a bio-fuel?
Cassava has a high energy content, low maintenance and ability to grow under a wide
range of climatic conditions, cassava. All these qualities render it a potential for
production of bio-ethanol. The technology for cassava alcohol, patented by the CTCRI
in the 1980s, requires refinement for commercial scale production.
Bioethanol based on the lignocellulosic residue of cassava and sweet potato could be
combined with starch-based options to make biofuel production cost effective. The high
productivity of cassava crop in India would make production of bioethanol cost-
competitive. The step to bring comparatively less fertile land in the semi-arid areas of
Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and high rainfall regions in the north-eastern region under
cassava cultivation would ensure supply of raw material for ethanol production.

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Australia starts operating MWA telescope to explore universe origins
July 12, 2013
Taking a major step towards the ambitious Square Kilometre Array (SKA) astronomy
project, Australia has switched on a test telescope named Murchison Widefield Array
(MWA) to explore the origins of the universe.
What is Murchison Widefield Array (MWA)?
Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) is a low-frequency radio telescope operating at the
remote outback site that will host the SKA. The array will help in exploring the origins
of the universe, in understanding the interaction b/w the Earth and the Sun, give early
warning of destructive solar flares and study our galaxy and other galaxies. The
telescope consists of 2,048 dipole antennae, arranged into 128 tile clusters, about 100
km west of Meekathara in the deep radio silence of Australias remote red-sand desert.
What is Square Kilometre Array (SKA)?
First IVF baby born using NGS technique
July 10, 2013
The first IVF baby named Connor Levy was born in the US who has undergone an
embryo selection using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technique, which was
developed to read whole genomes quickly and cheaply to select healthy embryos having
no chromosomal abnormalities.
Though on this occasion scientists only looked at chromosomes the structures that
hold genes the falling cost of whole-genome sequencing means doctors could soon
read all the DNA of IVF embryos before choosing which to implant.
How this technology can help?
The chances of an embryo having the wrong number of chromosomes rise with the
mothers age, and potentially with the fathers. Most of the time, embryos with
abnormal chromosomes fail to implant. Those that do are usually miscarried. The
portion that survive are born with genetic disorders, such as Downs syndrome. Next-
generation sequencing could enable IVF clinics to determine the chances of children
developing diseases. This technology can prevent this by reading the genome of the
embryo and telling which are with defective chromosomes or possessing the risk of
future genetic diseases thus aiding in selection of healthy embryo for further
development through IVF.
Two HIV infected show no sign of disease after Bone marrow transplants
July 7, 2013
In an exciting development for the scientists and people living with AIDS/HIV, two
men became free of HIV infection after bone marrow transplants and are not under Aids
drugs treatments for several months without any sign of the virus returning. The two
men, who had longstanding HIV infections, were given bone marrow transplants in
Boston because they were suffering from cancers of the blood. Tests showed that as
their own cells were replaced by cells from the bone marrow donor, the virus in their
blood steadily dropped to undetectable levels.
Although the results are sanguine for all, scientists are not calling it completely cured
case as the virus is notorious to hide itself and remain at low levels but remain capable
of becoming active. To be sure of anything, scientists will have to follow-up the cases
for at least one year to understand the full impact of bone marrow transplant.
What if the idea works?

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Even if the bone marrow transplant shows positive results there will be challenges in
making it available for everyone in need. Besides, this method also has a high mortality
rate of 15-20% and the patient has to take drugs to suppress their immune system
thereafter. But the experiences of the two men will teach scientists a great deal more
about how to combat the virus.

Telefonica launched worlds first Firefox OS smartphone
July 6, 2013
Spanish broadband and telecommunications provider Telefonica has launched the
worlds first smartphone with the Firefox Operating System (OS) to compete with
devices running Googles Android and Apples iOS.
The ZTE Open smartphone are being offered in Spain for 69 euros (about $90) and
will soon be available in several Latin American countries.
Features:
The ZTE Open smartphone is equipped with a 3.5-inch 480x320p touchscreen, a 3.2MP
camera, 256MB RAM and 512MB flash memory enhanced with a 4GB microSD card
that comes as part of the package. It is fully integrated with Facebook and the Spain-
based social network Tuenti.
India establishes IPv6 Test Lab
July 6, 2013
Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) which is the technical arm of
Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications & IT has set up
an Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) Lab which has been approved by the IPv6
Ready Logo Committee under IPv6 Forum, an International body. By doing this, India
has entered the club of select group of nations which include Europe, USA, Japan,
China and Taiwan having IPv6 Ready Logo test lab facilities. Other
What will IPv6 test lab do?
As the world has moved on from addressing scheme IPv4 to the new IPv6 scheme it
was imperative to have such a lab to encourage service providers, content providers and
the customer premises equipment vendors to move to IPv6 address implementation.
Establishing a testing infrastructure was also stipulated in the National
Telecommunication Policy -2012. TEC will play an instrumental role in the
Interoperability and testing of IPv6 products as a major piece of the India IPv6 Strategy
roadmap announced by the India Government in building the New Internet
infrastructure as inter-operability creates genuine end-user confidence in new
technologies.
Father of Mouse: Douglas Engelbart passed
July 6, 2013
Douglas C. Engelbart, a technologist who ideated the computer mouse and laid out
a vision of an Internet decades before others brought those ideas to the mass market,
passed away.
It was in 1968 when he first showcased his idea to an audience of 1,000 leading
technologists in San Francisco, Engelbart, a computer scientist at the Stanford Research
Institute, demonstrated a cubic device with two rolling discs called an X-Y position
indicator for a display system.

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Engelbart also displayed, in real-time, the image and voice of a colleague 30 miles
away. That was the first videoconference. And he explained a theory of how pages of
information could be tied together using text-based links, an idea that would later form
the bedrock of the Webs architecture.
In 2000, Engelbart was given prestigious accolades including the National Medal of
Technology and the Turing Award. At the same time, he grappled with his fade into
obscurity even as technology entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates built fortunes
off of the personal computer and became celebrity billionaires by realizing some of his
early ideas.
Engelbart worked at teaching position at the University of California, Berkeley. He later
took a job at SRI and during this period developed the design for a desktop mouse. SRI
later licensed the technology for $40,000 to Apple, which released the first commercial
mouse with its Lisa computer in 1983.
Man-made factors to blame Uttarakhand Floods: Environmentalists
July 6, 2013
The devastating floods of Uttarakhand which ravaged the region by killing thousands
and leaving hundreds of other stranded has more man-made factors and less natural
cause behind it. As per Environmentalists the uncontrolled development and poor
disaster planning has aggravated flood damage.
How is it a man-made disaster?
As per experts indiscriminate development in hill towns and along rivers has blocked
the natural flow of water and exacerbated flood damage. They place the blame on
successive governments who have prioritized large scale infrastructure construction and
neglected disaster prevention. The unbridled growth of tourism accompanied with
proliferation of roads, hotels, shops and multistory housing in ecologically fragile areas
and above all mushrooming hydroelectricity dams that disrupt water balances are the
underlying causes of this catastrophe. It was not unprecedented that Uttarakhand region
witnessed such heavy rainfalls as the records show that Uttarakhand has recorded
single-day rainfall in excess of 400mm several times, including 450mm in 1995 and
900mm in 1965. Cloudbursts, floods and rapid swelling of fast-flowing rivers arent
uncommon. But this time the floodwaters, loaded with tens of thousands of tonnes of
silt, boulders and debris from dam construction, found no outlet. The routes they took
in the past, including ravines and streams, were blocked with sand and rocks. The
waters deluged towns and villages, submerging some buildings under several feet of
mud, asphyxiating life.
It is highly probable that the floods were exacerbated by Glacier Lake Outbursts
Floods (GLOFs) which inundated the Kedarnath temple. GLOFs, or the explosive
bursting of glacier lakes, are thought to be a result of human-induced climate change,
which is causing rapid melting of glaciers in the Himalayas, themselves warming at
twice the global rate.
Lack of an early warning system, effective evacuation plans and a responsive disaster
management system added to the calamity. Modestly priced radar-based technology to
forecast cloudbursts would have saved lives. But it wasnt installed.
There was failure on the level of local governance too. Sloppy, unregulated construction
of roads and bridges was permitted on crumbling, landslide-prone ridges and steep
slopes, overlooking the regions delicate geology and high earthquake vulnerability.

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Large scale deforestation and construction of hundreds of buildings in the flood plains
of rivers have taken place. Riverbeds were recklessly mined for sand. As construction
debris accumulated, land contours and flows of streams and rivers changed.
Indiscriminate construction of hydroelectric dams was the biggest mistake. These
involve drilling huge tunnels in the hills by blasting rocks, placing enormous turbines in
the tunnels, destroying soil-binding vegetation to build water channels and other
infrastructure, laying transmission lines and carelessly dumping excavated muck. Many
dams have been built on the same river so close to one another that they leave no scope
for its regeneration.

Fact Box: National Cyber Security Policy (NSCP) 2013 Of India
July 5, 2013
India launches National Cyber Security Policy 2013 to secure cyber space
The government has announced a National Cyber Security Policy 2013 which aims to
address the threats emanating from the cyber world. The Policy proposes to:
Set up different bodies to tackle various levels of threats, along with a national
nodal agency, to coordinate all matters related to cyber security.
Create a National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre
(NCIIPC), which will act as a 247 centre to battle cyber security threats in
strategic areas such as air control, nuclear and space. It will function under the
National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), a technical intelligence
gathering agency controlled directly by the National Security Adviser in the
Prime Ministers Office.
The current agency, Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), will deal
with all public and private infrastructure.
Create a workforce of around 500,000 trained in cyber security.
Provide fiscal benefits to businesses to adopt best security practices.
Set up testing labs to regularly check the safety of equipment being used in the
country.
Create a cyber ecosystem in the country, developing effective public-private
partnerships and collaborative engagements through technical and operational
cooperation.
Building indigenous security technologies through research.
India is close to completing Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor
July 5, 2013
Indias first commercial fast breeder reactor the 500 MWe Prototype Fast
Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is in an advanced stage of completion at Kalpakkam,
Tamil Nadu.
Indigenously developed mixed-oxide type fuel pins for the PFBRs first core were
under manufacture and delivery. 95% of the PFBR construction had been completed
and is expected to go critical by September 2014. The Nuclear Fuel Complex,
Hyderabad, is manufacturing the reactors fuel bundles and they are being assembled in
a workshop at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research at Kalpakkam.
The Centre had sanctioned Rs. 5,677 crore for building the PFBR. Electricity generated
from the PFBR would be sold to the State Electricity Boards at Rs. 4.44 a unit. The
responsibility of developing PFBR is with Bhartiya Nabhkiya Vidyut Nigam Limited
(BHAVINI).

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Fact Box: IRNSS-1A
July 3, 2013
ISRO successfully launches IRNSS-1A: Indias first navigation satellite
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has successfully launched IRNSS-1A on
PSLV C 22 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. It was
for the first time ISRO has launched an India satellite at almost midnight taking into
account the orbit and inclination at which the satellite will be injected into the space and
the season of launch. Total seven satellites of the IRNSS constellation will be launched
and the full constellation will be up during 2014 timeframe. The entire IRNSS satellite
constellation will compromise of three satellites geostationary orbits and four in
inclined geosynchronous orbits, of which IRNSS-1A is the first one.
Factbox: IRNSS-1A
IRNSS expands to Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System.
Indias first dedicated Indian Navigation Satellite System and has a life span of
around 10 years.
Placed in an inclined geosynchronous orbit at 55 degree East longitude with an
inclined orbit of 29 degrees with respect to the equator.
Positioned at 36,000 Kms altitude.
It is intended to provide terrestrial, aerial and marine navigation services and help
in disaster and fleet management.
To provide accurate position information service for terrestrial (cars, goods
transport, buses) aerial (flights) and maritime (shipping) navigation for users in
India as well as neighbouring regions extending up to 1,500 km from Indias
borders/boundaries, which will be its primary service area.
It will provide two types of services:
1. Standard Positioning Service (SPS) for all users
2. Restricted Service (RS), an encrypted service provided only to authorized users.
Applications of IRNSS:
Terrestrial, aerial and marine navigation, disaster management, vehicle tracking and
fleet management, integration with mobile phones, precise timing, mapping and
geodetic data capture, terrestrial navigation aid for hikers and travelers, and visual and
voice navigation for drivers.
India imposes ban on testing of cosmetics on animals
July 2, 2013
In a remarkable decision intended to prevent cruelty to animals, India has decided to
ban the testing of cosmetics and its ingredients on animals. This has made India the first
country in South Asia to impose such a ban.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
Cosmetics Sectional Committee, chaired by the Drugs Controller General of
India and is in line with the European Unions stand. The step follows appeals from
various quarters, including that from the National Advisory Council Chairperson Sonia
Gandhi and campaigner for animal rights Maneka Gandhi and the People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals (PETA), to prevent cruelty to animals.
What is the ban?
Any cosmetic product which performs animal testing will face action as per provisions
of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and the Animal Cruelty Act. Infringement of the
Drugs and Cosmetics Act by any person or corporate manager or owner is liable for

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punishment for a term which may extend from 3-10 years and shall also be liable to fine
which could be Rs.500 to Rs.10,000, or with both.
The law also makes it mandatory to use modern non-animal alternative tests, replacing
invasive tests on animals. It implies that any manufacturer interested in testing new
cosmetic ingredients or finished products must first get the approval from Indias
regulator Central Drug Standards Control Organization. A manufacturer will be
given approval to test only after complying with the BIS non-animal standards.
Animal Testing Status:
Companies around the world are switching to effective, modern non-animal tests and
more than 1,200 companies have already given up animal-testing methods. But many
still are carrying out with the same old procedures of subjecting animals to painful tests.

Railway launches SMS facility for ticket booking
July 2, 2013
Indian Railway has launched a new pilot service which makes it possible for the 80% of
the population that owns mobile phones. The service doesnt even involves any use of
Internet by the customer.
IRCTC has INTRODUCED a number of options to buy tickets without having to access
the Internet. Besides the short code 5676714, one can even send an SMS to 139 or the
Airtel Money system *400# or the system powered by Pyro where one needs to have a
BSNL SIM card enabled with Java computer language.
It will not be necessary to carry a hard copy of the ticket while travelling the SMS
confirmation will be valid proof. The facility allows for ticket cancellation as well. To
make use of any of these options, you have to get your mobile number registered with
IRCTC. Each SMS will cost Rs. 3 and as the project is being launched on a pilot basis,
mobile service providers have dispensed with agent charges for now. These charges as
and when imposed would be the same one pays to other agents, including online
charges.
The new technology will also ease the pressure on Internet ticketing as 45% of tickets
are booked through Internet. It would also put an end to fleecing by touts.
Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS): NASA launches satellite to study
Suns atmosphere
July 2, 2013
The U.S. space agency NASA launched a satellite to uncover the secrets of the Suns
lower atmosphere. NASAs Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) was
launched aboard an Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket off the California coast.
About IRIS mission:
Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) is a $182 million mission which will
continue for two years.
It aims to observe the movement of solar material. It will try to know how it gathers
energy and heats up as it makes its way through a mysterious region in the suns lower
atmosphere. IRIS will help in knowing not only the causes the ejection of solar
material, including solar wind, but also solar eruptions that can disrupt human
technology.



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What is this mysterious region?
This is a region b/w the suns photosphere and corona where most of the suns
ultraviolet emission is generated, which impact the near-Earth space environment and
Earths climate.
Multidrug-resistant TB stock declines to alarming level
July 2, 2013
Even as the government is trying to tackle the stock-out situation for anti-tuberculosis
paediatric drugs, a new problem has surfaced. Stocks of second-line medicines
like Kanamycin, an injectible drug used for treating multi-drug resistant (MDR)
TB have dipped alarmingly. Currently, there is stock only for two and a half months.
India is among the few countries with a high burden of MDR TB.
The Prime Ministers Office has asked the Union Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare (MoHFW) for clarification on the availability of drugs.
The Central TB Division (CTD) called an emergency meeting to find the way forward
to extenuate the crisis. Manufacturers of paediatric drugs, prolongation pouches and
streptomycin have been identified and the ministry is hopeful of getting supplies to
states by the end of July. States with a lower disease burden have been asked to transfer
drugs to those with a higher burden facing extreme shortage of drugs.
Why this lapse?
The shortage of drugs was due to procurement failures and delays at the level of the
government of India. It also confirmed stock-out of paediatric doses, Rifampicin (the
key drug to treat TB), streptomycin injection as well as diminishing stockpiles of
Kanamycin injections and other first line drugs. The emergency procurement of
paediatric drugs was delayed by six months and the orders had just been placed.
As for Kanamycin, emergency procurement of over 400,000 vials, done with the
support of the Geneva-based Global Drug Facility (GDF) through WHOs intervention
had not reached the country because of delays in processing orders, payments and the
ministry not issuing the necessary customs duty clearance on time.
Surge in the cases of Leptospirosis
July 2, 2013
A rise in the number of cases of leptospirosis has been reported in Thiruananthapuram
even as the district is focusing its efforts on curbing the dengue fever. Dengue has
eclipsed the fact that the incidence of leptospirosis has been on the rise in all districts of
the state after the rain began.
What is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by bacteria Leptospira that affects both
humans and animals. Humans become infected through direct contact with the urine of
infected animals or with a urine-contaminated environment. The bacteria enter the body
through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth,
nose and eyes. Person-to-person transmission is rare. The disease has also been known
to trigger abortions in cattle.
How does the transmission take place?
Leptospirosis is transmitted by the urine of an infected animal and is contagious as long
as it is still moist. Although rats, mice, and moles are important primary hosts, a wide
range of other mammals including dogs, deer, rabbits, hedgehogs, cows, sheep,

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raccoons, opossums, skunks, and certain marine mammals are able to carry and transmit
the disease as secondary hosts.
What are the symptoms?
In the early stages of the disease, symptoms include high fever, severe headache,
muscle pain, chills, redness of the eyes, abdominal pain, jaundice, haemorrhages in the
skin and mucous membranes, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.
Who are most vulnerable?
Although the disease can occur to anyone who comes in contact with the urine of
infected with Leptospira, its prevalence is seen in cleaning workers, manual labourers
and farm workers are most vulnerable. The number of infection increases in rainy
season as people wade through waters contaminated with garbage and animal excreta
which contain the bacteria.
How is it controlled?To counter leptospirosis vulnerable sections are put on
Doxycycline prophylactic treatment. Care is taken to distinguish the disease from other
diseases like Malaria and Dengue as these too show similar symptoms and spread in the
same season.

Fact Box: Kirobo : Worlds first talking robot-astronaut ready to take off
June 28, 2013
Kirobo : Worlds first talking robot-astronaut ready to take off
Japanese have developed the worlds first robot-astronaut that can communicate with
humans. It will be launched to International Space Station (ISS) from Japan Aerospace
Exploration Agencys (JAXA) Tanegashima Space Center atop H-IIB rocket on August
4, 2013.
Kibo Robo Project:
Named after kibo (hope in Japanese) and robot.
The project is collaboration b/w advertising and PR company Dentsu; the
Research Centre for Advanced ; the University of Tokyo; Robo Garage; and
Toyota Motor.
It is one of two humanoid verbal-communication robots built by the Kibo Robot
Project
It is smaller than most robots that go into space as it doesnt need to perform any
physical activity.
It is about 34 cm tall and weighs about 1 kg.
4th generation core processors launched by Intel
June 28, 2013
The US based chipmaker Intel has launched its fourth generation core processor which
the company claims will reinvent personal computing with longer battery life, more
advanced graphics and new usages in devices like tablets and ultra-books. PC makers
such as Acer, Dell, Hewlett-Packard and Lenovo are in the process of launching
products with the latest Intel processor.
Special features:
Provide foundation for computing in two-in-one devices, which work as a PC and
can also serve as a tablet.
Can deliver upto 15% better performance than the previous generation, while
consuming lower amounts of power.

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Make every day computing to be about two times faster, helps systems wake up
around eight times faster and allows users to edit and share HD video about 20
times faster, than a similar 4-year-old computer.
PC makers such as Acer, Dell, Hewlett-Packard and Lenovo are in the process of
launching products with the latest Intel processor.
Chinas Shenzhou 10 Spacecraft returns safely
June 27, 2013
The Shenzhou 10 spacecraft (Chinas 5
th
manned space mission since 2003) with its
three astronauts touched down safely in north Chinas Inner Mongolia after a successful
15-day mission in which they completed the final trial docking with the Tiangong
(Heavenly Palace) 1 (an experimental manned laboratory in space), critical in Beijings
quest to build a working space station by 2020.
About Shenzhou 10:
Launched on June 11, 2013.
Commanded by Nie Haisheng, with Zhang Xiaoguang and female astronaut
Wang Yaping also on board.
A manned spaceflight of Chinas Shenzhou program.
Chinas 5
th
manned space mission.
The final mission to Tiangong 1 in this portion of the Tiangong program.
Returned to Earth after a series of successful docking tests.
About Tiangong 1
Tiangong-1 ( meaning: Heavenly Palace 1) is Chinas first space station
An experimental test-bed to demonstrate orbital rendezvous and docking
capabilities.
Launched unmanned aboard a Long March 2F/G rocket in September 2011.
First operational component of the Tiangong program, which aims to place a
larger, modular station into orbit by 2020.
It is projected to be deorbited in 2013, and replaced over the following decade by
the larger Tiangong-2 and Tiangong-3 modules.
It was visited by the unmanned Shenzhou 8 and the manned Shenzhou 9 mission
before being the third and final mission to Tiangong-1, the manned Shenzhou 10.
RBI auctions Inflation Indexed Bonds
June 26, 2013
The government has announced the sale of 1.44% Inflation-Indexed government
stock 2023 for a notified amount of Rs.1,000 crore through price-based auction on
June 25, 2013. The results of the auction, to be conducted using the uniform price
method by the Reserve Bank of India in Mumbai, will be announced on the same day.
Up to 20% of the notified amount of bonds on sale will be allotted to eligible
individuals and institutions as per the scheme for non-competitive bidding facility in
auction of government securities.
Both competitive and non-competitive bids for the auction are to be submitted in
electronic format on RBIs Core Banking Solution (e-Kuber) system.
What are IIBs?
Inflation-Indexed Bonds or IIBs are are bonds where the principal is indexed to
inflation. They are thus designed to cut out the inflation risk of an investment. These
bonds will be linked to the inflation index of the country (Wholesale Price I ndex or

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WPI ) and serve as a better investment option as compared to physical assets like real
estate and gold. Higher the inflation, higher the returns.
Why this step?
The step is being taken to de-motivate investments in gold as bulging imports of the
yellow metal has been adversely affecting the countrys Current Account Deficit
(CAD), which had surged to a historic high of 6.7% in the third quarter of 2012-13.
Last month, imports of gold and silver soared by 138% on an annual basis to $ 7.5
billion.
How would IIBs help?
As per RBI, IIBs would help in:
Boosting domestic savings and reversing the declining savings-to-GDP ratio.
Providing households and other investors a competitive option against gold and
real estate. In the wake of rising inflation last year, there was considerable flow
of investments from financial savings to safe-haven assets like gold that resulted
into higher imports of the metal. This led to current account deficit or CAD
widening to 4.9% of GDP at the end of September 2012.
Giving investors choice to use IIBs as good hedging instruments against
inflation.
How will the Index ratio be determined?
The IR (index ratio) will be computed by dividing reference index for the settlement
date by reference index for the issue date, and the final inflation data based on the
Wholesale Price Index (WPI) will be used for providing inflation protection. Besides, in
case of revision in the base year for WPI series, base splicing method would be used to
construct a consistent series for indexation.