Tag Archives: AI

In this Issue

I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY

Defence Budget for the Financial Year 2023-24

The Ministry of Defence has been allocated a total Budget of Rs 5,93,537.64 crore (about US $72 billion), which is 13.18 percent of the total Union Budget for Financial Year (FY) 2023-24. Accordingly, the Capital Allocations pertaining to modernisation and infrastructure development of the Defence Services has been increased to Rs 1,62,600 crore representing a rise of Rs 10,230 crore (6.7 percent) over FY 2022-23. Towards strengthening Research and Development in Defence, the allocation to Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been enhanced by 9 percent, with a total allocation of Rs 23,264 crore in BE 2023-24. To further foster innovation, encourage technology development and strengthen the Defence Industrial ecosystem in the country, iDEX and DTIS have been allocated Rs 116 crore and Rs 45 crore respectively representing an enhancement of 93 percent for iDEX and 95 percent for DTIS over 2022-23. For more information: Click here to read…

Mission Mode Projects of the DRDO

As on 3 February 2023, the DRDO is working on 55 Mission Mode (MM) Projects for a total sanctioned cost of Rs 73,942.82 crore. These are in the area of Decoys, Nuclear Defence Technologies, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), Combat Suite, Propulsion System, Air Droppable Container, Torpedo, Fighter Aircraft, Cruise Missile, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, AEW&C Aircraft System, Gas Turbine Engine, Assault Rifle, Warhead, Light Machine Gun, Rocket, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Infantry Combat Vehicle Command, Ordnance Disposal System, Tactical Radios, EW Systems, Radars, Life Support System, Geographical Information System, Surface to Air Missile, Anti-ship Missile, anti-Airfield Weapon, Glide Bomb, Simulator etc. For more information: Click here to read…

PM Modi Inaugurates HAL’s Helicopter Manufacturing Factory

In yet another step towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ or Self-Reliant in defence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Helicopter Factory to the nation in Tumakuru, Karnataka on 6 February 2023. The Prime Minister lauded the talent and innovation of Karnataka youth and said the manufacturing sector’s strength is manifested in products from drones to Tejas fighter planes. “Double-engine government has made Karnataka the first choice of investors” the Prime Minister asserted and illustrated the point by the HAL project dedicated for which the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone in 2016 with a pledge for reducing the foreign dependence for defence needs. For more information: Click here to read…

PM Modi Inaugurates 14th edition of Aero India 2023

Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the 14th edition of Aero India 2023 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru on 13 February 2023. The theme of Aero India 2023 is “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’ and will witness participation by more than 80 countries along with 800 defence companies including around 100 foreign and 700 Indian companies. In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Make in India, Make for the World’, the event will focus on displaying indigenous equipment/technologies and forging partnerships with foreign companies. Prime Minister’s emphasis on Aatmanirbharta in the Indian Defence sector will also be displayed, as the event will showcase the country’s progress in design leadership, growth in UAVs Sector, Defence Space and futuristic technologies. For more information: Click here to read…

MoD Signs Contract with L&T for Procurement of 41 Indigenous Modular Bridges

In a major boost to indigenisation of defence equipment under Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Ministry of Defence has approved the proposal for indigenous manufacture of 41 sets of Modular Bridges for the Corps of Engineers of the Indian Army. These game-changing bridges have been designed and developed by the DRDO and shall be produced by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) as DRDO-nominated production agency. The contract for the procurement of Modular Bridges was signed with L&T on 8 February 2023 at an estimated cost of over Rs 2,585 crore. For more information: Click here to read…

Indigenous Manufacturing of AK-203 Rifles

Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is a joint venture company established for indigenous production of AK-203 Rifles. IRRPL has established all facilities to commence production of indigenized assault rifle at Korwa, Uttar Pradesh (UP). The Rifles are currently under manufacturing and testing stage. Indigenization of AK-203 Rifles will lead to self-sufficiency in respect of Assault Rifles for Indian Defence Forces, which is in the spirit of “Atmanirbhar Bharat”. For more information: Click here to read…

Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor

In Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor (TNDIC), five nodes namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Hosur, Salem and Tiruchirappalli have been identified. As per information received from Government of Tamil Nadu, arrangements have been made through Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) etc. for potential investment of Rs 11,794 crore by 53 Industries & Organisations in TNDIC. As on date, Rs 3,861 crore have already been invested by the Industries/Organisations. The setting up of new industries in an area generates opportunities for direct and indirect employment. For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR

SSLV Launches Three Satellites

On 10 February 2023, Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) successfully launched three satellites into their intended orbits. In its second developmental flight, the SSLV-D2 vehicle placed EOS-07, Janus-1 and AzaadiSAT-2 satellites into their intended 450 km circular orbit with an inclination of 37 degrees. It took-off from the first launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota at 09:18 hours IST and took about 15 minutes to inject the satellites. SSLV is the new small satellite launch vehicle developed by ISRO to cater the launch of small satellites up to 500 kg to Low Earth Orbits on ‘launch-on-demand’ basis. For more information: Click here to read…

Total Imports and Exports in Space Tech-Based Industry

In FY 2021-22, items worth Rs. 2,114 Crore (approx.) were imported for executing various projects/ programmes; and, Rs. 174.90 Crore was generated towards export of launch services, data sales and in-orbit support services and post-launch operations. As on 8 February 2023, 135 applications have been received by IN-SPACe from 135 Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) in the Space Sector, the Minister of Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said in the Lok Sabha in reply to a question on Start-Ups in Space. The Minister informed that a new Seed fund scheme has been approved by IN-SPACe Board to provide initial financial assistance to Indian space start-ups. A revised FDI policy in space sector to facilitate overseas investment in NGEs and a National Space Policy are also in the process of final approval of the Government. For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Objects Orbiting the Earth

There are a total of 111 payloads and 105 Space Debris identified as Indian Objects orbiting the Earth, as tracked and catalogued by USSPACECOM and published in spacetrack website, as on 20 January 2023. In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Dr Jitendra Singh said, all orbiting debris will have impact on the sustainability of outer space and future missions and added that ISRO has been carrying out many studies on impacts of growing space debris on space environment. ISRO has carried out 21 collision avoidance manoeuvres of Indian Operational Space assets in 2022 to avoid collision threats from other space objects. For more information: Click here to read…

Augmenting Domestic Capacity for Realisation of Space Tourism

The Indian Government is taking measures to augment domestic capacity for future realisation of space tourism. In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Dr Jitendra Singh said, ISRO has also carried out a few feasibility studies for a sub-orbital space tourism mission onboard a liquid propellant stage booster. Gaganyaan, India’s maiden human spaceflight programme, ISRO is engaged in development of various technologies, which are essential building blocks for human space missions. The Minister informed that the objective of the Gaganyaan programme is the demonstration of human spaceflight capability to Low earth orbit. Future missions will be taken up after the accomplishment of Gaganyaan mission. For more information: Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the capability of AI-enabled machines to use existing text, audio files, or images to create new content. The use of Generative AI is still in its early stages, and its impact is likely to grow as technology continues to evolve and improve. The Government is cognizant of the emergence of these technologies and their rapid proliferation in sectors like education, manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and others. There is no data available on Generative AI employment. However, as per NASSCOM data, the overall AI employment in India is estimated at about 416,000 professionals. The growth rate for the sector is estimated at about 20-25 percent. Further, AI is expected to contribute an additional USD 957 billion to India’s economy, by 2035. For more information: Click here to read…

Startup India Seed Fund Scheme

The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), a flagship scheme under Startup India initiative has been implemented with eﬀect from 1st April 2021. Under the Scheme, Rs. 477.25 crore has been approved to 133 incubators of which Rs. 211.63 crore has been disbursed as on 31st December 2022, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Som Parkash said in his reply to a Parliament Question on 3 February 2023. The SISFS has been approved with a corpus of Rs. 945 crore for the period of 4 years starting from 2021-22. Other ﬂagship schemes under Startup India initiative include Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) and Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) extend support to startups at various stages of their business cycle. For more information: Click here to read…

Use of Drone Technology in Coal Mines

Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd (MCL), the premier Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Coal has introduced drone technology in coal mines by launching a web- based portal VIHANGAM along with a drone and ground control system. The portal allows an authorised person to access real time drone video from the mine through a dedicated 40 Mbps internet lease line near the mines. There is a control station that flies the drone and the system can be operated through the portal from anywhere. This pilot project is at present operational at Bhubaneswari and Lingraj opencast mines of Talcher Coalfields. MCL is making use of drone technology for environmental monitoring, volume measurement and photogrammetric mapping of mine for digitalization of mining process. Besides deploying state- of- art technology to further enhance record coal production, MCL has also stepped up the use of latest equipment to further enhance safety standards. For more information: Click here to read…

Promoting Drones in Agriculture Sector

The Indian government has released funds amounting to Rs. 126.99 crores towards Kisan Drone promotion based on the proposals received so far. This includes Rs. 52.50 crores released to the ICAR for purchase of 300 Kisan Drones and organizing their demonstrations on the farmers’ fields in 75000 hectares through 100 KVKs, 75 ICAR institutions and 25 SAUs. It also includes funds released to various State Governments for supply of more than 300 Kisan Drone to farmers on subsidy and establishment of more than 1500 Kisan Drone CHCs to provide drone services to the farmers. The use of Kisan Drones has a potential to provide ample opportunities of employment to people in rural areas. For more information: Click here to read…

5G Services in India

Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have started providing 5G services in the country from 1st October 2022 onwards. As on 31 January 2023, 5G services have been started in 238 cities distributed across all license service areas. The Indian Government has established a road map to make 5G services available in different parts of the country through rollout obligations. As per the Notice Inviting Application (NIA) dated 15 June 2022 for auction of spectrum and the license conditions, the rollout obligations are required to be met over a period of five years, in a phased manner, from the date of allocation of spectrum. For more information: Click here to read…

Initiatives to Promote Electricity Mobility and Increase Charging Stations for EVs

Several initiatives have been taken to promote electricity mobility including Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles (EVs). The steps taken to increase the number of the charging stations across the country include: Ministry of Power along with Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Heavy Industries and NITI Aayog has launched a nationwide “Go Electric” Campaign on 19 February 2021 to educate the general public on the benefits of EVs. Action plans for 9 major cities have been prepared by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) for installation of Public Charging Stations. As per the initial estimates, a total of 46,397 Public Charging Stations (PCS) are being targeted in these cities by 2030. For more information: Click here to read…

TRAI Releases Consultation Paper on Digital Connectivity Infrastructure

On 11 February 2023, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released the Consultation Paper on “Introduction of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider Authorization under Unified License (UL)”. The purpose of this Consultation Paper is to seek views of stakeholders on the proposed DCIP authorization under Unified License. A robust Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) contributes significantly to economic development both by increasing productivity and by providing amenities that enhance the quality of life. DCI plays a vital and leading role in successful implementation of various Government schemes under Digital India, Make in India, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), and development of Smart Cities. For more information: Click here to read…

Digital Transactions Increasing in India

Digital payment transactions have significantly increased as a result of coordinated efforts of the Government as a whole, along with all stake holders concerned, from 2,071 crore transactions in FY 2017-18 to 8,840 crore transactions in FY 2021-22 (Source: RBI, NPCI and banks). During last five years, various easy and convenient modes of digital payments, including Bharat Interface for Money-Unified Payments Interface (BHIM-UPI), Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), and National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) have registered substantial growth and have transformed digital payment ecosystem by increasing person-to-person (P2P) as well as person-to-merchant (P2M) payments. BHIM UPI has emerged as the preferred payment mode of the citizens and has recorded 803.6 crore digital payment transactions with the value of ₹ 12.98 lakh crore in January 2023. For more information: Click here to read…

Digitization of Courts in India

The Indian Government has launched the eCourts Integrated Mission Mode Project in the country for computerization of District and subordinate courts with the objective of improving access to justice using technology. As part of the National eGovernance Plan, the project is under implementation since 2007 for ICT development of the Indian Judiciary based on the “National Policy and Action Plan for Implementation of Information and Communication Technology in the Indian Judiciary”. eCourts project is being implemented in association with e-Committee Supreme Court of India and Department of Justice. Phase I of the project was implemented during 2011-2015. Phase II of the project started in 2015 under which 18,735 District & Subordinate courts have been computerised. For more information: Click here to read…

Six Greenfield Airports Operationalised since 2019

Since 2019, six Greenfield airports namely, Kalaburagi (project cost Rs. 175.57 crore), Orvakal (Kurnool) (project cost Rs. 187 crore), Sindhudurg (project cost Rs. 520 crore), Itanagar (project cost Rs. 646 crore)Kushinagar (project cost Rs. 448 crore) and Mopa (project cost Rs.2870 crore) have been operationalised, out of which Kushinagar and Mopa airports are International airports. For more information: Click here to read…

India’s Nuclear Power Capacity Increasing

India’s Nuclear Power capacity witnessed a quantum jump since 2014. Going by the exact figures, in the year 2013-14 if the annual nuclear power generation stood at 35,333 Million Units, in the latest year of 2021-22 it stands at 47,112 Million Units which is nearly 30 to 40 percent increase within a short span of over eight and a half years. Dr Jitendra Singh noted that the world’s first thorium based nuclear plant “Bhavni” using Uranium-233 is being set up at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu. It is going to be entirely indigenous and the first-of-its-kind. The experimental thorium plant “Kamini” already exists in Kalpakkam. For more information: Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

India-Argentina S&T Cooperation

A high level delegation led by Argentina’s Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation of Argentina, Mr Daniel Filmus visited India and called on Dr Jitendra Singh. During the visit, the two sides discussed bilateral collaboration on a wide range of areas, including the Argentina Minister sought India’s support to deploy technologies for implementation by industry and facilitating the entrepreneurs in Argentina. Dr Jitendra Singh informed his Argentinian counterpart Mr Filmus that Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), with world-class expertise and facilities, is one of the largest industrial R&D organizations in the world with 37 multi-disciplinary R&D institutes located across India. With its state-of-the-art expertise, capacities and capabilities CSIR could contribute effectively towards Research and Innovation Collaborations, Technology Partnerships, Research Infrastructure Development & Sharing, and Capacity Building. For more information: Click here to read…

India-EU Technology Cooperation

On 6 February 2023, under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), India and the EU announced the establishment of the three Working Groups: i) Strategic Technologies, Digital Governance and Digital Connectivity; ii) Green & Clean Energy Technologies; and, iii) Trade, Investment & Resilient Value Chains. The TTC is a strategic coordination mechanism that will allow both partners to tackle challenges at the nexus of trade, trusted technology and security, and thus deepen cooperation in these fields between India and the EU. It will be co-chaired on the Indian side by the Ministers for External Affairs; Commerce & Industry; and Communications, Electronics & Information Technology. For more information: Click here to read…

India-France Tech Cooperation

Prime Minister Modi participated in a video call with President of France Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the launch of a partnership between Air India and Airbus. Air India and Airbus have signed a contract for the supply of 250 aircraft, 210 single-aisle A320neos and 40 widebody A350s to Air India. This commercial partnership between these two players of the aviation sector also displays the strength of the India-France Strategic Partnership, which marks its 25th anniversary this year. Complimenting the strong presence of French companies in India, Prime Minister also recalled the recent decision by French aerospace engine manufacturer SAFRAN to set up its largest MRO facility in India to service aircraft engines for both Indian and international carriers. For more information: Click here to read…

India-US Tech Cooperation

On 14 February 2023, President Joe Biden had a phone call with Prime Minister Modi to discuss the historic agreement for Air India to purchase over 200 American-made aircraft from Boeing. President Biden noted how the sale will support over one million American jobs across 44 states, and help Air India meet growing demands for air transportation in India. The two leaders also discussed the importance of the strategic technology partnership between the two countries, highlighting the recent inaugural launch of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) hosted in Washington in January 2023. For more information: Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS

AI Chatbots: Next US-China Tech War

After Chip War, China is getting ready for the next tech war against the US amid rapid advances in generative AI in recent months. Chinese companies are stepping up efforts to enter the fast-growing AI content sector. But apart from the hype and excitement, people are probably missing the threat factors, especially with China in the AI game. An American company, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, has swept the globe because of its advanced conversational features since its launch in November 2022. On 6 February 2023, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai announced the launch of its own AI chatbot, Bard, in a blog post. Google’s Chinese equivalent, Baidu Inc, revealed on 7 February that it will complete internal testing of Ernie Bot, a comparable AI chatbot project, by March and then go live. For more information: Click here to read…

Japan, Netherlands to Join US in Restricting Chinese Accesses to Advanced Materials

The US, Japan, and the Netherlands are also in discussions to restrict China’s access to materials for semiconductor technology and for the manufacturing of advanced processor chips which, they claim, can be used in weapons. The Chinse government has protested the move and continue to do so, claiming the West is trying to “maintain its hegemony” and containing China by abusing export controls. It charges the United States of encouraging other countries ganging up against China as well. For more information: Click here to read…

ASML says Chinese Employee Stole Information about Its Technology

The Netherlands’ ASML, one of the world’s major suppliers to the semiconductor industry and the sole producer of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography photolithography devices, has claimed that a former employee in China stole sensitive technological information in a data breach. Based on its preliminary investigations, ASML believes that the misappropriated data will not have a negative impact on its current operations, although it concedes that some “export control requirements” may have been breached. ASML has subsequently disclosed the data breach to the appropriate authorities, and it is “implementing further corrective steps in light of this event.” According to a Gartner report, ASML is a crucial cornerstone of the worldwide technology supply chain, holding over 90 per cent of the global market for chipmaking lithography equipment by 2021. For more information: Click here to read…

South Korea Concerned about Possible Leakage of Trade Secrets to China

As a result of the United States sweeping sanctions on Chinese tech companies, South Korea, one of China’s largest trading partners is now worried that certain companies may leak trade secrets to the Chinese. After getting Japan and the Netherlands to impose certain trade restrictions on the country, particularly those that would not allow tech companies based in these countries to sell technology or machinery that would allow the Chinese to develop the latest generation of semiconductors, the US is now going after China’s trade with South Korea. According to Korean specialists, as US’ efforts to deny China access to chip innovations increase, South Korea is on the lookout for technical knowledge and guides being leaked to China. In the last 5-6 years, China has reportedly been involved in over 110 cases of corporate espionage and industrial espionage with South Korean tech companies. Of these, about 36 have been related to tech which is at the centre of South Korea’s tech industry. For more information: Click here to read…

US Military Shot Down the Chinese Surveillance Balloon and Unidentified Objects

The US military shot down the Chinese surveillance balloon in early February 2023 and subsequently three unidentified objects. Since then US-China tensions have been high. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly called off his planned 5 February trip to Beijing. Just days later, the Pentagon said China refused a call from US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Administration officials say the device was part of an international “high-altitude balloon programme for intelligence collection” by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) that has flown over 40 countries. Beijing maintains that the balloon was a civilian airship used for meteorological research. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden said that the incident “underscores the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between our diplomats and military professionals” and reiterated that his administration is “not looking for a new Cold War” with China. For more information: Click here to read…

The UK Falling Behind in the Global Semiconductor Race

As nations around the world scramble to secure crucial semiconductor supply chains over fears about relations with China, the UK is falling behind. Britain’s government has been readying a plan to diversify supply chains for key components and boost domestic production. However, a lack of experience and joined-up policy-making in Whitehall, a period of intense political upheaval in Downing Street, and new US controls on the export of advanced chips to China, have collectively stymied the UK’s efforts to develop its own coherent plan. Against this backdrop, many of the UK’s allies are investing billions in domestic manufacturing. The Biden administration’s CHIPS Act, passed last summer, offers $52 billion in subsidies for semiconductor manufacturing in the US. The EU has its own €43 billion plan to subsidize production — although its own stance is not without critics. Emerging producers like India, Vietnam, Singapore and Japan are also making headway in their own multi-billion-dollar efforts to foster domestic manufacturing. Now the UK government is under mounting pressure to show its own hand. For more information: Click here to read…

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest, 16-31 January 2023, Issue 6

February 13, 2023 vd@admin

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

Indian Navy Commissioned the Fifth Kalvari Class Submarine Vagir
Indian Army Displayed ‘Made In India’ Weapons
India to Launch the Long-Delayed Super Sukhoi Programme

II. STI in Space Sector

NID and ISRO Sign MoU for Human Spaceflight Programme
ISRO’s Rocket SSLV Set for Launch
India’s Rocket LVM3 to be launched in early March 2023
The Kerala Space Park Project

III. Emerging Technologies and Applications

India Unveils World’s First Intranasal COVID19 Vaccine
India Developed Four Indigenous Vaccines in Two Years
Creating a Deeptech Health Care R&D and Supply Chain Ecosystem
Quantum Computing in India
Technology for Air Quality Monitoring System Launched
Technology for Biosensing System Launched
Framework for Catalyzing India’s Techade
TRAI Issued the Consultation Paper on Digital Technologies and Services
Government Invites Comments on Amendment Proposed to ‘IT Rules’
India International Science Festival, IISF-2022 Inaugurated in Bhopal
Use of Technology and Elections Integrity
Training Students in the Areas of Emerging Technologies
Empowering Young Scientists of India

IV. International Cooperation

India-Egypt Defence and S&T Cooperation
India-US held the Inaugural iCET Dialogue
India-US Space Cooperation
India-France Defence Tech Cooperation
G20-Startup20 Engagement Group Set To Meet in Hyderabad
First G-20 International Financial Architecture Working Group Inaugurated

V. Regional and Global Trends

NASA Tests New Propulsion System for Deep Space Missions
China Launches Classified Remote Sensing and Tech Test Satellites
China to Launch 60 Space Missions and Over 200 Spacecraft in 2023
China’s Potential Claim to Resource-Rich Regions of the Moon
US Sanctions Chinese Firm for Sending Satellite Imagery to Russia’s Wagner Group

I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY

Indian Navy Commissioned the Fifth Kalvari Class Submarine Vagir

The Indian Navy’s fifth stealth Scorpene class Submarine INS Vagir was commissioned into the Indian Navy today, 23 January 2023 at the Naval Dockyard Mumbai in the presence of Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, the Chief Guest for the ceremony. Six Scorpene Class submarines are being built in India by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai, under collaboration with M/s Naval Group, France. INS Vagir would form part of the Western Naval Command’s Submarine fleet and would be another potent part of the Command’s arsenal. The submarine has advanced stealth features and long range guided torpedoes as well as anti-ship missiles.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Army Displayed ‘Made In India’ Weapons

Ahead of Republic Day 2023, the Indian Army displayed ‘Made In India’ weapons including Akash air defence missiles and BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles atthe India Gate.The weapons displayed included K-9 Vajra howitzers, MBT Arjun, Nag anti-tank guided missiles, BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Akash air defence missiles and the Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles.

For more information: Click here to read…

India to Launch the Long-Delayed Super Sukhoi Programme

As per media reports, India is about to launch the long-delayed Super Sukhoi programme. Four billion USD has already been requested by the Indian Ministry of Defence. 150 fighters out of 260 operationally ready Su-30MKI will go through complete modernization. The Super Sukhoi programme was supposed to start nearly two years ago. In 2022, Russian troops invaded Ukraine and this delayed the plans of the Indian Air Command. However, the time has come for a change, and seeing the threat from China, India is ready to invest in the backbone of its Air Force. The modernization will mainly affect the replacement of electronics, sensors, and weapons. Realistically, if the programme is completed on time, India will have a better Su-30 than the original manufacturer – the USSR/Russia.

For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR

NID and ISRO Sign MoU for Human Spaceflight Programme

The National Institute of Design (NID) officials and Human Spaceflight Centre (HSFC) of ISRO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at NID Ahmedabad on 20 January 2023 for the ‘Design of System and Products for Indian Human Spaceflight Programme’. NID director Praveen Nahar, and HSFC director, Dr R Umamaheshwaran, signed the MoU in the presence of officials from both institutions. As per media reports, the collaboration would cover fields ranging from spacesuits to user consoles. “So far, only a few countries like Russia and the US have advanced in space design as a discipline.”
For more information: Click here to read…

ISRO’s Rocket SSLV Set for Launch

ISRO’s latest rocket, Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), is all set for launch with the space agency aiming for carrying three payloads. While the main payload will be an Earth observation satellite – the EOS-7 – the mission is also expected to launch Janus-1 from US firm Antaris and a third payload from a domestic player. The Earth observation satellite SSLV is scheduled to carry will be in the small satellite class with its mass not exceeding 200kg, while the other two satellites sharing the ride will be smaller.
For more information: Click here to read…

India’s Rocket LVM3 to be launched in early March 2023

India’s heaviest rocket LVM3 (also known as GSLV Mk3) is likely to take to the skies in early March 2023, as part of its second commercial launch. This launch is part of a commercial deal between UK-based satellite broadband firm One Web and ISRO’s commercial arm New Space India Limited (NSIL). The deal is worth approximately USD 122.65 million (INR 1,000 crore), and involves the launch of 72 satellites in two batches of 36 each, on board the LVM3 rocket. While the first LVM3/One Web launch was successfully completed on 23rd October 2022, the second launch is slated for March 2023.
For more information: Click here to read…

The Kerala Space Park Project

The Kerala Space Park project opens up immense opportunities for the State to establish a thriving space industry, Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal said, while inaugurating a seminar ‘Sustainability in Space Science and Technology – Challenges and Possibilities,’ organised by the ISRO Staff Association as part of its golden jubilee celebrations. Space science is highly relevant at a time when debates centre on climate change and global warming and the need to protect the planet, he said.
For more information: Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

India Unveils World’s First Intranasal COVID19 Vaccine

On 26 January 2023, the Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the iNNCOVACC COVID19 vaccine in the presence of Minister of Science and Technology, DrJitendra Singh. iNNCOVACC is the world’s first intranasal COVID19 vaccine to receive approval for the primary 2-dose schedule, and as a heterologous booster dose. It is developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) in collaboration with Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance (BIRAC), a PSU under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology.
For more information: Click here to read…

India Developed Four Indigenous Vaccines in Two Years

India has developed four indigenous Vaccines in last two years. The four vaccines are- ZyCoV-D- World’s 1st and India’s indigenously developed DNA Vaccine, CORBEVAXTM-India’s first protein subunit vaccine, GEMCOVAC™-19 – World’s 1st and India’s indigenously developed mRNA vaccine and iNCOVACC-World’s 1st and India’s indigenously developed intranasal COVID-19 Vaccine. The DBT in Ministry of S&T has through “Mission COVID Suraksha”, delivered four vaccines, augmented the manufacturing of Covaxin, and created necessary infrastructure for smooth development of future vaccines, so that the country is pandemic ready.
For more information: Click here to read…

Creating a Deeptech Health Care R&D and Supply Chain Ecosystem

SAMEER, India’s premier R&D Institute of Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) signed a MoU with Siemens Healthineers in Bengaluru on 27 January that will contribute towards the development of new, improved and innovative technologies for advancing healthcare and diagnostic access in India. Digital India Programme which was launched in 2015 paved way for India to move from being a consumer of technology to a producer of technology, devices, and products. “The MoU today is a significant step in this direction.”
For more information: Click here to read…

Quantum Computing in India

The Quantum Computing will be at the core of India’s growth and expansion in India’s Techade. The MeitY Chandrasekhar said that “It is PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to create a India centric Quantum tech ecosystem with partners and players around the world. We are working together to build an ecosystem of innovation, along with startups, R&D laboratories, higher education institutions.” The Minister said that “We need to really work together to build a complete quantum ecosystem of innovation, startups, research labs, higher academic institutions, domestic companies, foreign companies, foreign academics for creating an India centric Quantum Ecosystem that works very well with other partners and players around the world”.
For more information: Click here to read…

Technology for Air Quality Monitoring System Launched

The Secretary, MeitY, Alkesh Kumar Sharma has launched the Technology for Air Quality Monitoring System (AI-AQMS v1.0) developed under MeitY supported projects, on 17 January 2023. The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Kolkata in collaboration with TeXMIN, ISM, Dhanbad under the ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and Environment (AgriEnIcs)’ has developed a outdoor air quality monitoring station to monitor environmental pollutants which includes parameters like PM 1.0, PM 2.5, PM 10.0, SO2, NO2, CO, O2, ambient temperature, relative humidity etc., for continuous air quality analysis of the environment.
For more information: Click here to read…

Technology for Biosensing System Launched

The Secretary, MeitY, Alkesh Kumar Sharma has launched the Technology for Biosensing system for the detection of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in aquatic ecosystems (MEAN) developed under MeitY supported projects, on 17 January 2023. The C-DAC, Kolkata in collaboration with ICAR-CIFRI, Baraackpore under the ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and Environment (AgriEnIcs)’ has developed a biosensing system for detection of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC) in aquatic ecosystems, for qualitative and quantitate analysis of EDC content in water bodies.
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Framework for Catalyzing India’s Techade

The Indian Government will put in place a less prescriptive and more principle-based comprehensive legal framework for catalyzing India’s Techade and to build a trillion-dollar economy, the Meity Rajeev Chandrasekhar said in Bengaluru on 19 January 2023. The Minister said that “The Government is working on a comprehensive legal framework that will include legislations like the proposed Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, the National Data Governance Framework, the amended IT rules etc. and the upcoming Digital India Act — which will be less prescriptive and more principle-based-to enable and support a vibrant startup and innovation ecosystem”.
For more information: Click here to read…

TRAI Issued the Consultation Paper on Digital Technologies and Services

On 30 January 2023, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued the Consultation Paper on “Regulating Converged Digital Technologies and Services –Enabling Convergence of Carriage of Broadcasting and Telecommunication services”. Over the period of time, various technological developments in digital markets have resulted in the convergence of devices, services, and networks. The convergence of digital and physical products through the use of Machine to Machine (M2M), Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technologies is paving the way for Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0).
For more information: Click here to read…

Government Invites Comments on Amendment Proposed to ‘IT Rules’

In pursuance of the Government’s commitment to ensure an Open, Safe and Trusted and Accountable Internet for citizens (Digital Nagriks), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has invited comments from stakeholders and general public on amendment proposed to rule 3(1)(b)(v) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (“IT Rules”) with respect to obligations of social media and other intermediaries regarding sharing of information which is patently false and untrue or misleading in nature.
For more information: Click here to read…

India International Science Festival, IISF-2022 Inaugurated in Bhopal

The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Minister for Science & Technology, DrJitendra Singh jointly inaugurated India International Science Festival, IISF-2022 in Bhopal on 21 January with the theme, “Marching towards AmritKaal with Science Technology and Innovation”. In his address Chief Minister Chouhan said that 2600 Start-ups came up in Madhya Pradesh alone in one year and it is not only confined to city of Indore but even tier-2 and tier-3 cities are dotted with successful start-ups. He called upon the students and entrepreneurs from Madhya Pradesh to develop a zeal for innovations. For more information: Click here to read…

Use of Technology and Elections Integrity

Chief Election Commissioner of India Rajiv Kumar along with Election Commissioner’s Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goel inaugurated a two day international conference on the theme ‘Use of Technology & Elections Integrity’. The conference which is second in a series of three conferences to be organized by Election Commission of India is hosted at New Delhi under Cohort on Election Integrity led by ECI. Sixteen countries including Heads/Dy Heads of nine EMBs or Election Authorities are participating.
For more information: Click here to read…

Training Students in the Areas of Emerging Technologies

Atal Innovation Mission – NITI Aayog, Central Board of Secondary Education -Ministry of Education, and Intel India have collaborated to bring a change in the education sector by embedding future skills such as AI and Tinkering in the formal curriculum. The larger aim is to align the NEP 2020’s guidance to increase the pace of tech integration for youth, the need to bridge the future skills gap in the country, and optimize the current infrastructure (ATLs, etc.) towards making India AI-ready. Together, they launched the AIoT Integration in School Curriculum in September 2022 and initiated a pilot.
For more information: Click here to read…

Empowering Young Scientists of India

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the GoI, IIT (BHU), Varanasi and INYAS jointly organised the “National Brainstorming Session on Empowering Young Scientists of India” on 24th and 25th January 2023 to assimilate ideas for enhancing the avenues of empowering young scientists of India in the current research ecosystem. The two-day brainstorming session was held with the aim of collating inputs on a new policy document to nurture and empower the next generation of young scientists and researchers (≤45 years) that would translate into excellence in scientific and technological leadership for furthering the research and development in the country.
For more information: Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

India-Egypt Defence and S&T Cooperation

President of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited India from 24-27 January 2023 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day on 26 January. During the visit, India and Egypt “agreed to further enhance and deepen defence cooperation in all fields, especially by exchanging technology between defence industries, widening the footprint of military exercises, and exchanging best practices. They emphasized the need for co-production in the defence sector and to discuss specific proposals in the framework of the JDC.” They also noted “their longstanding science and technology cooperation with satisfaction”. They agreed that the two countries “could work together in areas of emerging technologies through sharing best practices and undertaking joint research in areas of mutual interest such as nano-technology, bio-technology and renewable energy”.
For more information:
Click here to read…

India-US held the Inaugural iCET Dialogue

India and the US held the inaugural Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) dialogue in Washington DC on 31 January 2023 which was co-led by the two National Security Advisors, NSA AjitDoval and NSA Jake Sullivan. They were joined by senior government officials, leading industry representatives and academia. As per the White House fact sheet, the two sides have identified six areas of planned cooperation which would include Strengthening innovation ecosystems; Defence innovation and technology cooperation; Resilient semiconductor supply chains; Space; STEM talent; and, Next generation telecommunications.
For more information: Click here to read…

India-US Space Cooperation

The officials from India and the US participated in the eighth meeting of the US-India Civil Space Joint Working Group (CSJWG) in Washington DC from 30-31 January 2023. As per the State Department press release, “the CSJWG discussions covered collaboration in earth and space science as well as human space exploration, global navigation satellite systems, spaceflight safety and space situational awareness, and policies for commercial space”. The two sides also “considered implementation of guidelines and best practices developed by the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space (COPUOS) to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities.”
For more information: Click here to read…

India-France Defence Tech Cooperation

In a major boost to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Fuel Cell-based Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system of DRDO’s Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) will soon be fitted onboard INS Kalvari. An agreement was signed between senior officials of NMRL and Naval Group France in Mumbai on 23 January2023 to extend cooperation to enter into the detailed design phase for integration of indigenous AIP in the Kalvari class submarines. As part of the agreement, Naval Group France will certify the AIP design for integration in the submarines. The AIP has a force multiplier effect on lethality of a diesel electric submarine as it enhances the submerged endurance by several folds.
For more information: Click here to read…

G20-Startup20 Engagement Group Set To Meet in Hyderabad

The G-20 Startup20 Engagement Group will hold its inception meeting in Hyderabad, featuring delegates from G20 nations and nine special invitees from observer countries, representatives from multilateral organizations as well as the Indian startup ecosystem. The group formed under G20 after India assumed presidency will convene from 28-29 January anticipating a productive development of policy recommendations on entrepreneurship and innovation priorities of and across G20 countries for the years ahead. The meeting will create a global narrative for supporting startups and fostering synergies between startups, corporates, investors, innovation agencies, and other key ecosystem stakeholders.
For more information: Click here to read…

First G-20 International Financial Architecture Working Group Inaugurated

The two-day meeting of the first International Financial Architecture Working Group of G-20, under the chairmanship of India, was inaugurated in Chandigarh on 30 January 2023. On this occasion, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar said that India is developing rapidly with science and innovation, both of them are deeply connected with the future of India. We have leveraged technology to create the digital public infrastructure. We have been a significant contributor to financial inclusion in global healthcare and the move to sustainable energy while people-centric development is the basis of our national strategy. This is the same philosophy that the theme of our G-20 Presidency, – ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’, also underlines.
For more information: Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS

NASA Tests New Propulsion System for Deep Space Missions

Propulsion development engineers at NASA have developed and tested the agency’s first full-scale rotating detonation rocket engine, or RDRE. It is an advanced rocket engine design that could revolutionise how future rocket propulsion systems are built, according to the space agency. The RDRE is different from conventional rocket engine designs and generates thrust using a “supersonic combustion phenomenon” known as detonation. The design allows the engine to generate more power while using less fuel than propulsion systems that are currently being used. According to NASA, it has the potential to power both human landers and interplanetary vehicles going to deep space destinations like the Moon and Mars.
For more information: Click here to read…

China Launches Classified Remote Sensing and Tech Test Satellites

China launched three new satellites in January 2023, providing no details of the work they will do in orbit. A Long March 2D rocket lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert at 2:00 a.m. EST (0700 GMT, or 3:00 p.m. local time) on 13 January 2023, sending three classified satellites into orbit. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), which produced both the rocket and satellites, announcedthe successful launch of the Yaogan 37 and Shiyan 22A and 22B satellites within an hour of liftoff. No details about the three satellites were provided.
For more information: Click here to read…

China to Launch 60 Space Missions and Over 200 Spacecraft in 2023

After conducting over 50 launches in 2022, China has bigger and bolder plans for 2023. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) has said that Beijing is planning to launch 60 space missions and over 200 spacecraft this year. In a blue paper, unveiled recently, China has revealed that the country’s space science and technology activities will see a significant boost in 2023 including big-ticket missions like Tianzhou-6 cargo craft, the Shenzhou-16, and the Shenzhou-17 flight missions to further solidify its Tiangong space station activities. Apart from launching these missions, the corporation will also ensure that the construction of a new-generation commercial remote-sensing satellite system.
For more information: Click here to read…

China’s Potential Claim to Resource-Rich Regions of the Moon

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson has warned that China could claim resource-rich regions of the moon as its own as the country intends to gain economic benefits through space exploration, the Indo-Pacific Center for Strategic Communications (IPCSC) reported. According to the IPCSC report, China’s efforts to use its space programme to transform itself into a military, economic, and technological power will soon reshape the world order. China in 2020, announced its plans to establish an economic zone with an output value of USD 10 trillion. China in 2022 built a space station orbiting the Earth and performed several missions around the moon to extract samples. Beijing also plans to build an autonomous lunar research station near the moon’s South Pole, which is expected to begin in 2025.
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US Sanctions Chinese Firm for Sending Satellite Imagery to Russia’s Wagner Group

On 26 January 2023, the United States Treasury Department and the State Department imposed sanctions on a Chinese company for sending satellite imagery orders from locations in Ukraine to Russia’s Wagner Group, according to the statement released by the US Department of the Treasury. US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen said that “As sanctions and export controls on Russia from our international coalition continue to bite, the Kremlin is desperately searching for arms and support, including through the brutal Wagner Group, to continue its unjust war against Ukraine.”
For more information: Click here to read…

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest, 01-15 January 2023, Issue 5

February 3, 2023 vd@admin

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

DAC Approves AoN for Three Capital Acquisition Proposals
Keel Laying of the Two Warships of Anti-submarine Warfare Shallow Craft
Successful Training Launch of Prithvi-II Carried Out off
ICG Concludes Maiden Contract for 10 Multicopter (VTOL) Drones
Startup Firm IG Drones Develops India’s First 5G-Enabled Drone, Skyhawk
Technology Acquiring Centre Stage

II. STI in Space Sector

The MoS&T Notifies National Geospatial Policy, 2022
Innovation and Start-Ups in India’s Geospatial Ecosystem
Symposium on Space Science and Technology
Chandrayaan-3 Mission Anticipated To be Launched in August 2023

III. Emerging Technologies and Applications

Start-up India Innovation Week
India’s Fastest Payment App, PayRup, Launched
‘One Week One Lab’ Campaign Launched
Symposium on Emerging and Strategic Technologies
Vidisha Becomes First District in India for Deployment of 5G Use
Effective Use of S&T Important for Progress of Agriculture
Start-ups in Agriculture Sector
Intelligent Tray Retrieval System
Contribution of Women in STEM & Biodiversity Conservation

IV. International Cooperation

India’s Role in the Technology Sector in G20
‘Stay Safe Online’ and ‘G20 Digital Innovation Alliance’ Launched
India-France Technology Cooperation
Joint Projects with Japan for Digital Transformation of ITS and Mobility
Emagia, USA, and Osmania University Sign Agreement on AI and Fintech
India-US Emerging Technology Cooperation

V. Regional and Global Trends

‘US Needs to Boost Tech Investments to Stay Competitive’, Senate Democrats
US-China Quantum Technology Race
US Sanction China on Chips Yield No Immediate Effect
China Published More Scientific Papers than the US
Drone Advances in Ukraine Could Mark a New Age of Warfare

I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY

DAC Approves AoN for Three Capital Acquisition Proposals

On 10 January 2023, a meeting of Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), held under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for three capital acquisition proposals – HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system, and Brahmos Launcher and Fire Control System (FCS) – amounting to Rs 4,276 crore. All the three proposals – two of the Indian Army and one of the Indian Navy – are under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. For more information: Click here to read…

Keel Laying of the Two Warships of Anti-submarine Warfare Shallow Craft

Keel laying of the two warships (Yard 3033 and Yard 3036) of Anti-submarine Warfare Shallow Craft (ASW SWC) project under construction by GRSE, Kolkata, was undertaken on 31 December 22 by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane. The ASW SWC ships will have over 80 percent indigenous content, ensuring that large scale defence production is executed by Indian manufacturing units thereby generating employment and capability build up within the country. For more information: Click here to read…

Successful Training Launch of Prithvi-II Carried Out off

On 10 January 2023, a successful training launch of a Short-Range Ballistic Missile, Prithvi-II, was carried out on from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. A well-established system, Prithvi-II missile, has been an integral part of India’s nuclear deterrence. The missile struck its target with high accuracy. The user training launch successfully validated all operational and technical parameters of the missile. For more information: Click here to read…

ICG Concludes Maiden Contract for 10 Multicopter (VTOL) Drones

In a major boost to Marine Surveillance and Interdiction capabilities, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has concluded maiden contract for 10 multicopter (VTOL) drones in consonance with Government of India’s policy of embracing Drone Technology. These drones are capable of being launched from both Ships whilst underway, as well as Shore Stations and will play a significant role in the reach if ICG unit during Surveillance & Security operations. For more information: Click here to read…

Startup Firm IG Drones Develops India’s First 5G-Enabled Drone, Skyhawk

Startup firm IG Drones, which was born out of Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT) campus in Odisha’s Sambalpur has developed a 5G-enabled drone that is capable of vertical take-off and landing. The drone named Skyhawk can be used in defence and medical applications, among other sectors. The drone can carry a 10 kg payload and has an endurance of around five hours. With Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) providing 5G services in the country, these drones can be controlled with much more precision and can be controlled from the command centre directly rather than being on the field. For more information: Click here to read…

Technology Acquiring Centre Stage

Addressing Indian Army personnel and other persons on the occasion of 75th Army Day on 15 January, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that with technology acquiring centre stage in today’s world, the majority of the weapons are operated through Artificial Intelligence (AI), thereby eliminating the need for any in-person human presence. He added big armies in the world are working on modernization and working on new thoughts, ideas, technology and organizational structure. They are doing research on new platforms and equipment. Keeping in mind future requirements, we should also work on strategies, tactics and policies. For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR

The MoS&T Notifies National Geospatial Policy, 2022

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T) has notified the National Geospatial Policy, 2022. After liberalizing the use of geospatial data under the draft Geospatial Data policy in February 2022, the Indian government has now outlined a 13-year guideline for the development of the geospatial data industry in the country, developing a national framework to use geospatial data for improving citizen services, and more. As part of its outlay, the policy will seek to develop a national geospatial data framework, and enable “easy availability” of data to businesses and general public. For more information: Click here to read…

Innovation and Start-Ups in India’s Geospatial Ecosystem

The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh has launched “Geospatial Hackathon” to promote Innovation and Start-Ups in India’s Geospatial ecosystem. After launching the “Geospatial Hackathon” on 14 January 2023, the Minister said that the Hackathon will promote Innovation and Start-Ups in India’s Geospatial ecosystem. He invited the nation’s youth to participate and contribute towards the building of the nation’s geospatial economy. For more information: Click here to read…

Symposium on Space Science and Technology

The symposium on Space Science and Technology was organised on the second day of Indian Science Congress on 4 January at Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Campus of Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj Nagpur University. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully undertaken many near impossible space expeditions and projects. DTH Service, Weather Forecast has been possible due to satellite technology. The scientists participating in the Symposium opined that the objective of the expeditions and projects by ISRO are aimed at developing technology that can be helpful to the common people. For more information: Click here to read…

Chandrayaan-3 Mission Anticipated To be Launched in August 2023

According to a report by The Hindu, Chairman of the ISRO, S. Somnath, at a conference stated that the Chandrayaan-3 mission is anticipated to be launched in August 2023. While the mission’s criteria would stay the same, the design was changing in a number of ways, according to Dr Somnath. In contrast to Chandrayaan-2, “the design and engineering are drastically changed to make it more resilient and avoid the issues from the previous time.” For more information: Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

Start-up India Innovation Week

The Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, organizing Start-up India Innovation Week from 10th January 2023 to 16th January 2023 to celebrate the Indian Start-up Ecosystem. With an aim to reach ecosystem stakeholders and enablers across the length and breadth of the nation, several events were successfully conducted during the Start-up India Innovation Week, including Start-up India, in partnership with Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) organised a two-day physical workshop on women for startups, in Kochi, on 10th and 11th January 2023; organised a Virtual Mock Pitching Session for all existing women entrepreneurs from the eight states of northeast; and, hosted a webinar on the topic “Bridging the Bridge: Going Global”. For more information: Click here to read…

India’s Fastest Payment App, PayRup, Launched

India’s fastest payment app was launched on 8 January 2023. PayRup is built by cutting-edge technology of web 3.0. It provides advanced digital payment experience with outstanding user experience. PayRup users can pay utility bills and landline bills, recharge their mobile, broadband, DTH, and purchase Gift Cards. PayRup services are planned to expand across various financial instruments, including multiple payment services such as school fees, pay rent, and other payment collection services. Recently, PayRup has announced ticketing and booking services for flights, buses, and hotels along with a few other USPs. For more information: Click here to read…

‘One Week One Lab’ Campaign Launched

On 6 January 2023, Dr Jitendra Singh launched “One Week One Lab” campaign highlighting India’s global excellence in technology, innovation and Start-Ups. The Minister informed that in the “One Week One Lab” Campaign of Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), each of its 37 constituent laboratories, spread Nationwide, will showcase their legacy, exclusive innovations and technological breakthroughs every successive week. During the campaign each CSIR lab shall be organizing week long events including industry & start-ups meet, students connect, society connect, display of technologies, etc. For more information: Click here to read…

Symposium on Emerging and Strategic Technologies

A seminar on ‘Emerging and Strategic Technologies’ was organised on 5th January at the Dr. A.K. Dorley Auditorium in the ongoing Indian Science Congress at Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj Nagpur University. During the symposium, P Siva Prasad, gave a presentation on ‘Asymmetric Technology’. He explained how heterogeneous technologies are cost-effective, subtle and disruptive. Prof. RP Singh, PRL Ahmedabad, spoke about ‘Quantum Technologies and Photonics: Application Oriented Research’. For more information: Click here to read…

Vidisha Becomes First District in India for Deployment of 5G Use

Vidisha, an aspirational district of Madhya Pradesh became the first ever district in India for on ground deployment of innovative 5G use cases offered by startups – a joint initiative by Vidisha District Administration and Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the guidance of Additional Secretary (Telecom) & Administrator USOF. For more information: Click here to read…

Effective Use of S&T Important for Progress of Agriculture

Speaking in the inaugural function of Farmers Science Congress, organised in Nagpur as a part of 108th Indian Science Congress, on 5 January, Basant Kumar Das, Director, Central Fisheries Research Institute, Kolkata, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, said that “The nation has made tremendous progress in food grain production and our farmers’ meticulous efforts have made the biggest contribution to it. However, it is seen that the economic condition of the farmers has not improved much. Hence effective use of modern S&T is important for the progress of agriculture”. He asserted that farmers need to be aware of market techniques. For more information: Click here to read…

Start-ups in Agriculture Sector

On 5 January 2023, Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurated “National Genome Editing & Training Centre” at National Agri-food Biotechnology Institute (NABI) Mohali, Punjab. The Minister said that the Start-Up movement has picked up momentum in India and led to creation of over 80,000 Start-Ups whose number was only about 350 before 2014. This quantum jump in the number of Start-Ups must equally and proportionally reflect in Agri and Bio-tech as well because this area is yet to be fully explored and taken advantage of by Indian entrepreneurs and youth. The Minister insisted on creating awareness about lucrative livelihood and income avenues in Agri-tech entrepreneurship. For more information: Click here to read…

Intelligent Tray Retrieval System

Minister for MSME Narayan Rane inaugurated virtually Intelligent Tray Retrieval System (ITRS), Manufactured by M/s SJK Innovations Pvt. Ltd, a MSME-Make in India Company at MOPA (GOA) International airport. The ITRS is an AI based fully automatic machine that helps in providing enhanced passenger security with advanced screening technology. The machine is equipped with image analysis software with advanced tools that makes it easy for the screener to take correct decisions against every baggage. This in turn helps the passenger to complete the screening much faster and easier when compared to the conventional machines. For more information: Click here to read…

Contribution of Women in STEM & Biodiversity Conservation

The contribution of women in all walks of life, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as conservation of biodiversity, was highlighted at the 10th Women Science Congress (WSC), organised as a part of the 108th Indian Science Congress at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University during 5-6 January 2023. For more information: Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

India’s Role in the Technology Sector in G20

India has a crucial role to play in its G20 presidency in the technology sector. As a country with a strong focus on technology and innovations, it has a significant role to play in bridging the digital divide. India’s Chief Coordinator for G20, Harsh V. Shringla said that the principle of data for development will be an integral part of the overall theme of India’s presidency of the group of the world’s developed and emerging economies. For more information: Click here to read…

Stay Safe Online’ and ‘G20 Digital Innovation Alliance’ Launched

As part of India’s G20 presidency, the Minister for Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw has launched the “Stay Safe Online” campaign and the “G20 Digital Innovation Alliance” (G20-DIA). MeitY, the Nodal Ministry for the G20 Digital Economy Working Group (DEWG). During its G20 presidency, MeitY will focus on three priority areas, namely Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Cyber Security, and Digital Skill Development, together with the Stay Safe Online campaign and DIA programme under the DEWG. MeitY aims to carry forward the vision of the digital transformation of the global digital economy for public service delivery through innovation and a future-ready digitally skilled workforce in a secure cyber environment. For more information: Click here to read…

India-France Technology Cooperation

India’s National Security Adviser, Ajiit Doval and Diplomatic Adviser to the French President, Mr. Emmanuel Bonne co-chaired the annual India-France Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi on 5 January 2023. During the Strategic Dialogue and the meetings, the two sides discussed global security environment, expanding the scope of defence cooperation to include co-development of futuristic technologies in line with India’s priorities of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Both sides also agreed to strengthen bilateral defence and security cooperation including in the South West Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific and pursuit of new initiatives in Critical and Emerging Technologies. For more information: Click here to read…

Joint Projects with Japan for Digital Transformation of ITS and Mobility

Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari reiterated India’s intense support towards cooperation with Japan in the sector of highways development, administration, and monitoring with the implementation of digital technology-enabled Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) services in his interaction with the Japanese Delegation led by Mr. Koichi Hagiuda and Mr. Hiroshi Suzuki. The Minister said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi India has always placed the Indo-Pacific at the heart of its engagement with the countries of Southeast and East Asia vide India’s Act East Policy. For more information: Click here to read…

Emagia, USA, and Osmania University Sign Agreement on AI and Fintech

Advancing its commitment to innovations and future ready workforce, Emagia, USA announced the launch of Fintech Innovation Labs at Osmania University (OU) in collaboration with Osmania Foundation, Hyderabad. Emagia and Osmania Foundation will set up joint Emagia-OU Fintech Innovation Labs at the OU College of Engineering to focus on research and development of the latest digital technology solutions using AI, ML, Blockchain, Web3, IoT, and other technologies aimed to accelerate fintech innovations. An agreement to this effect was signed between Emagia, headquartered in Santa Clara, California USA, and Osmania Foundation, Hyderabad, India. For more information: Click here to read…

India-US Emerging Technology Cooperation

A high level US delegation led by Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director, National Science Foundation visited India for discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation on the areas of emerging technologies. During the visit, Dr Panchanathan “proposed deeper cooperation with India in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Quantum, Semiconductor, Clean Energy, Advanced Wireless, Biotechnology, Geosciences, Astrophysics and Defence.” He also called on Dr Jitendra Singh who told the US delegation that Prime Minister Modi has opened new opportunities and possibilities in all areas of Scientific Endeavors, but more so in areas of Space, Biotech, Geospatial and Sustainable Start-ups. These are the best of the times for both India and America to forge a durable and strong bond for global leadership in fighting global challenges. For more information: Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS

‘US Needs to Boost Tech Investments to Stay Competitive’, Senate Democrats

Three US Senate Democrats – Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M) and Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) – said at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) that the US needs to boost its investments in tech advancements in order to stay competitive on a global market. Sen. Warner (D-Va.), chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said one of his priorities for the year is pushing for investments in AI, quantum computing, advanced engineering and synthetic biology. The senators underscored the importance of investments in domestic production of key technologies by noting the vast array of innovations on display at the show, ranging from advancements in automobiles to kitchen appliances. For more information: Click here to read…

US-China Quantum Technology Race

A team of Chinese researchers, led by Professor Long Guilu of Tsinghua University, have claimed a breakthrough to solve vulnerabilities of mainstream encryption mechanisms. They have claimed that their new, quantum code-breaking algorithm could reduce the scale of a practical quantum computer. The team claimed that their newly-discovered algorithm could reduce scale of a practical quantum computer to 372 qubits. However, the claim has been met with doubts from researchers in the United States. For more information: Click here to read…

US Sanction China on Chips Yield No Immediate Effect

The US has been trying to sanction China for some time now and has asked Japan and the Netherlands to put up sanctions that would stop tech companies from working with the Chinese chip industry. These sanctions won’t show any immediate effect. The White House will discuss a recent crackdown on exports of chip-making tools to China with Japanese and Dutch officials during upcoming visits, but they will not result in “immediate” pledges from the two countries to impose similar curbs. For more information: Click here to read…

China Published More Scientific Papers than the US

In 2022, Chinese researchers published three times as many papers on AI as US researchers and also outnumbered US papers by a 2-to-1 ratio in the top 1 percent most-cited research in the field. By at least one measure, China now leads the world in producing high-quality science. It is not the only nation to drastically improve its science capacity in recent years, but China’s rise has been particularly dramatic. This has left US policy experts and government officials worried about how China’s scientific supremacy will shift the global balance of power. For more information: Click here to read…

Drone Advances in Ukraine Could Mark a New Age of Warfare

According to military analysts, combatants and AI researchers, drone advances in Ukraine have accelerated a long-anticipated technology trend that could soon bring the world’s first fully autonomous fighting robots to the battlefield, inaugurating a new age of warfare. The longer the war lasts, the more likely it becomes that drones will be used to identify, select and attack targets without help from humans. That would mark a revolution in military technology as profound as the introduction of the machine gun. For more information: Click here to read…

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest, 16-31 December 2022, Issue 4

January 2, 2023 vd@admin

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

Value of Indigenous Defence Production Increased in FY 2021-22
Value of Defence Exports Increased to Rs 12,815 crores in FY 2021-22
iDEX-DIO Signs 150th Contract for Defence Innovation
Successful Firing of Extended Range Version of Brahmos Air Launched Missile
Mormugao is Being Commissioned into the Indian Navy

II. STI in Space Sector

Space Sector Emerging as a Major Foreign Exchange Earner
India’s Maiden Human Space Flight “Gaganyaan” to be Launched in 2024
ISRO Signs Four Cooperative Documents to Collaborate in Space Exploration

III. Emerging Technologies and Applications

Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme Approved for Four Years
Fifteen Start-ups Selected in First Cohort of NIRMAN Accelerator Programme
Innovation and New Technologies in Farm Sector
Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture
Use of Drones in Agriculture Sector
Rosatom offered a More Advanced Fuel Option to Kudankulam
Building Semiconductor Ecosystem in India
Technology Innovation Group Setup to Develop Roadmap & Action Plans for 6G
Improved, Heavy Rare Earth-Free, Low-Cost Magnets for EVs Fabricated
Public Consultation on Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2022
Total IT/BPM Exports Increased to over $ 178 billion in FY 2021-22
India Ranks 3rd in Global Scientific Publications
National Conclave on Techneev@75 organized in Delhi

IV. International Cooperation

Collaboration with International Institutions for Conducting Research in Science
ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum Held in Cambodia
India-Russia Working Group on Modernization & Industrial Cooperation
Netherlands Look to Deepen Technology Collaboration with India

V. Regional and Global Trends

US House Bans the Chinese Video App TikTok on Official Devices
Taiwan’s Government to Fine Foxconn for Unauthorized China Investment
China Seeks Self-Reliance in Agricultural Technology

I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY

Value of Indigenous Defence Production Increased in FY 2021-22

The value of indigenous defence production for Financial Year 2021-2022 reached to Rs 94,846 crore. To achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ and realise the goal of ‘Make in India’, the Government has established two Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs) in the country, one in Uttar Pradesh and other in Tamil Nadu. It intends to develop defence manufacturing ecosystem having conducive conditions including supply chain for giving push to production and testing & certification to create economies of scale and facilitate development of internationally competitive enterprises in the country. For more information: Click here to read…

Value of Defence Exports Increased to Rs 12,815 crores in FY 2021-22

Based on the value of Export Authorization issued by Department of Defence Production (DDP) to Private companies and actual export/contract done by DPSUs/OFB, the export value during the last three years are: Rs 9,116 crores (2019-20); Rs 8,435 crores (2020-21) and Rs 12,815 crores (2021-22) respectively. To foster defence manufacturing ecosystem in the country, the Government has taken several policy initiatives in the past few years and brought in reforms to encourage indigenous design, development and manufacture of defence equipment, thereby promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing & technology in the country. It has brought in various reforms including ease of doing business to achieve the target of US $5 billion for defence exports by 2024-25 and to boost Defence exports. At present, the exports are being made to more than 75 countries all over the world. For more information: Click here to read…

iDEX-DIO Sign 150th Contract for Defence Innovation

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the flagship initiative of DDP, has reached a milestone with the signing of its 150th contract with the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). The contract relates to an Indian Navy project of the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC 7) SPRINT edition. The challenge was titled ‘Expendable Mobile Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Training Target (EMATT) capable of simulating the sound and movement of a submarine’ and the winner was Altair Infrasec Pvt Ltd, Pune. The Challenge envisaged development of a training target capable of being deployed from P8I aircraft, MH60R helicopters, ships doing speed up to 10 knots and other Remotely Piloted Aircraft without undertaking any modification on the platform from which the EMATT is required to be launched. For more information: Click here to read…

Successful Firing of Extended Range Version of Brahmos Air Launched Missile

On 29 December 2022, Indian Air Force successfully fired the Extended Range Version of Brahmos Air Launched missile against a Ship Target from a SU-30MKI aircraft. The missile achieved the desired mission objectives in the Bay of Bengal region. With this, IAF has achieved a significant capability boost to carry out precision strikes from SU-30MKI aircraft against land/ sea targets over very long ranges. The extended range capability of the missile coupled with the high performance of the SU-30MKI aircraft gives the IAF a strategic reach and allows it to dominate the future battle fields. For more information: Click here to read…

Mormugao is Being Commissioned into the Indian Navy

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Mormugao (D67), second warship of the P15B class of stealth guided-missile destroyers, was commissioned in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai on 18 December 2022. The event marked the formal induction of the second of the four ‘Visakhapatnam’ class destroyers, indigenously designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house organisation Warship Design Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai. The majestic ship measures 163m in length, 17 m in breadth with a displacement of 7400 tonnes and can rightfully be regarded as one of the most potent warships to have been constructed in India. For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR

Space Sector Emerging as a Major Foreign Exchange Earner

The Minister of Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Space Sector in India is emerging as a major foreign exchange earner through the launch of a large number of foreign satellites. In an exclusive interview with SANSAD TV, Dr Singh informed that India has launched 385 foreign satellites so far, out of which 353 were launched in the last 8 years under this government, which is around 90 percent of all launches. The Minister also informed that out of total 220 million Euros earned by launch of foreign satellites, 187 million Euros generated in the last 8 years, which is around 85 percent of forex earned by launch of European Satellites. For more information: Click here to read…

India’s Maiden Human Space Flight “Gaganyaan” to be Launched in 2024

India’s maiden human space flight ‘H1’ mission is targeted to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2024, Dr Jitendra Singh said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on 21 December. In view of the paramount importance of crew safety, two Test Vehicle missions are planned before the ‘G1’ mission to demonstrate the performance of crew escape system and parachute-based deceleration system for different flight conditions. The uncrewed ‘G1’ mission is targeted to be launched in the last quarter of 2023 followed by the second uncrewed ‘G2’ mission in the second quarter of 2024, before the final human space flight ‘H1’ mission in the fourth quarter of 2024. For more information: Click here to read…

ISRO Signs Four Cooperative Documents to Collaborate in Space Exploration

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has signed four cooperative documents specifically to collaborate in space exploration in the last five years, Dr Jitendra Singh said in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha on 22 December. The agreement with the USA is for accommodating USA instruments in India’s Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3. The Minister informed that the agreement with Japan is to conduct feasibility study for a joint lunar polar exploration mission, while with UK for conducting feasibility study for collaboration in future space science missions. For more information: Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

Start-ups in India

Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme Approved for Four Years

The Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) has been approved for the period of four years starting from 2021-22. The Scheme aims to provide ﬁnancial assistance to start-ups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization. It is implemented with eﬀect from 1st April 2021 with a corpus of Rs. 945 crores. In this regard, 126 incubators have been approved and these incubators have selected 656 start-ups under the Scheme as on 30th November 2022. For more information: Click here to read…

Fifteen Start-ups Selected in First Cohort of NIRMAN Accelerator Programme

Fifteen Start-ups selected in the first-of-its-kind product accelerator programme for innovators developing sustainable solutions will soon start working towards solutions in the healthcare and agriculture domains. This is the first cohort of the NIRMAN Accelerator Programme launched by Start-ups Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) IIT Kanpur. The accelerator programme supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), through its NIDHI scheme portfolio, will help solve challenges in the product development journey of indigenous innovations. For more information: Click here to read…

S&T in Agriculture Sector

Innovation and New Technologies in Farm Sector

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)/ National Agricultural Research System (NARS) has taken initiatives for innovation/ development of new technologies in the farm sector across the country like Genetic enhancement of plants/ animals/ fish for higher productivity under increased intensity of biotic and abiotic stresses, productivity enhancement through sustainable intensification, productivity enhancement through mechanization of agriculture and food system, enhancing value, safety and income through food processing, development of energy efficient technologies, farming practices, and promoting technology transfer to the farmers and stake holders. For more information: Click here to read…

Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture

Various activities have been taken up by the government, using Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture. Some of the activities include: the DST is implementing a National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS); and, Technology and Innovation Foundation in technology vertical of “Technologies for Agriculture and Water” set up at IIT, Ropar. The applications of AI and IoT in Agriculture are in the areas of Precision Farming, Agricultural Drones and Hopping systems, Livestock Monitoring, Monitor Climate Conditions, Smart Greenhouses, AI and IoT based Computer imaging etc. For more information: Click here to read…

Use of Drones in Agriculture Sector

Scientific studies are carried out and data supporting the drone application are generated. Pilot studies with different approaches like use of remote sensing technology including satellite data and drone based images especially for crop cutting experiments planning, direct yield estimation at Gram Panchayat level, risk mapping of district and for dispute/area discrepancy resolution etc. have been conducted through Mahalanobis National Crop Forecasting Centre (MNCFC). The use of drone in agriculture is helpful to farmers as it has some distinct advantages. For more information: Click here to read…

S&T in Energy Sector

Rosatom offered a More Advanced Fuel Option to Kudankulam

Russian State-owned nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom has offered a more advanced fuel option to Kudankulam Nuclear power plant, Dr Jitendra Singh said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on 21 December. The first lot of TVS-2M fuel assemblies has been received in May-June 2022 from Russian Federation and loaded in Unit-1 and they are performing satisfactorily. Use of TVS-2M fuel assemblies in KKNPP reactors will allow 18-month operating cycles as against 12-month operating cycle with UTVS Fuel Assemblies presently in use in Unit-2. For more information: Click here to read…

Emerging Technologies in Other Sectors

Building Semiconductor Ecosystem in India

The Government of India is very focused on its important objective of building the overall semiconductor ecosystem and ensure that, it in-turn catalyses India’s rapidly expanding electronics manufacturing and innovation ecosystem. It has approved the Semicon India programme with a total outlay of INR 76,000 crore for the development of semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in the country. The programme has further been modified in view of the aggressive incentives offered by countries already having established semiconductor ecosystem and limited number of companies owning the advanced node technologies. The modified programme aims to provide financial support to companies investing in semiconductors, display manufacturing and design ecosystem. For more information: Click here to read…

Technology Innovation Group Setup to Develop Roadmap & Action Plans for 6G

The Department of Telecommunications has constituted a Technology Innovation Group on 6G (TIG-6G) on 1st November 2021 with members from various Ministries/Departments, research and development institutions, academia, standardization bodies, Telecom Service Providers and industry to develop Vision, Mission and Goals for the 6G and also develop roadmap and action plans for 6G in India. The TIG-6G has constituted six Task Forces with industry, academia, R&D institutions and Government as members. For more information: Click here to read…

Improved, Heavy Rare Earth-Free, Low-Cost Magnets for EVs Fabricated

Scientists have fabricated improved low cost heavy rare earth-free high Nd-Fe-B magnets, which are in high demand for Electric Vehicles and can make them more affordable. More than 90 percent of EVs use brushless DC (BLDC) motors made up of rare earth Neodymium Iron Boron (Nd-Fe-B) magnets. The International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy & New Materials (ARCI) has ventured into setting up of pilot plant for manufacturing of near net shaped Nd-Fe-B magnets through a major project funded by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission. The new strategy could also be used for commercial production of Nd-Fe-B magnets in India, reducing imports that meet the major requirements of the automotive sector. For more information: Click here to read…

Public Consultation on Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2022

On 23 December, the Minister of State for E&IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar met over 200 stakeholders from various walks of life to discuss and deliberate on the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill 2022, public consultations for which are open till 2 January 2023. The attendees included representatives from industry, think-tanks, law firms, consumer and citizen rights group & discussed the crucial role that the provisions of the Bill are going to play for data protection. The stakeholders came up with various suggestions related to different clauses of the Bill including the penalty regime for data fiduciaries, regarding obtaining parental consent for children, cross border data flows and about consent managers and how the government intends on regulating them and many others. For more information: Click here to read…

Total IT/BPM Exports Increased to over $ 178 billion in FY 2021-22

As per National Association of Software & Services Companies (NASSCOM), total exports from Indian Information Technology/ Business Process Management (IT/ BPM) sector in the FY 2019-20 and FY 2020-21 stood at US $ 149 and US $ 152 respectively. It is estimated that total IT/BPM exports already reached at US $ 178 billion for FY 2021-2022. The Government has been undertaking steps to promote broad based growth across a wide range of high potential services sectors including Information Technology/Information Technology Enabled Services (IT/ITES). It had also launched Software Technology Park (STP) that is a 100 percent export-oriented scheme for the development and export of computer software using communication links or physical media and including export of professional services. For more information: Click here to read…

India Ranks 3rd in Global Scientific Publications

India has jumped from 7th to 3rd global ranking in scientific publications. Dr Jitendra Singh informed that as per the National Science Foundation (NSF)’s Science & Engineering Indicators 2022 report of the United States, India’s position globally in scientific publications, has improved from 7th position in 2010 to 3rd position in 2020. He added that India’s scholarly output increased from 60,555 papers in 2010 to 1,49,213 papers in 2020. For more information: Click here to read…

National Conclave on Techneev@75 organized in Delhi

The need to build on the strength of the community and customize the role of technology according to the systemic needs of the community for changing their life and livelihood was highlighted at the National Conclave on Techneev@75, organized in Delhi on 22 December. The National Conclave is the culmination of the yearlong Techneev@75 programme organised jointly by the DST, DBT, CSIR, and the MoES to bring together communities, societal change makers, and experts on one platform, showcased the significant outcomes and discussed key learnings and the way forward to explore how absorption of science and technology could be augmented at the _community level. It set a framework for strengthening the local innovation system in collaboration with the formal innovation System. For more information: Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Collaboration with International Institutions for Conducting Research in Science

The Government of India has collaborated with a number of international institutions to facilitate Indian students for their research in science. The collaboration has been established with select institutions, viz. European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), Geneva; Brookhaven National Laboratory, USA; Elettra Sincrotrone, Trieste, Italy; Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), USA; Norwegian Polar Institute, Norway; Purdue University, USA; University of Alberta, Canada; Large Heavy Ion National Accelerator, France; Flerov Laboratory of Nuclear Reactions (FLNR), Joint Institute of Nuclear Research (JINR), Russia and Facility for Anti proton and Ion Research (FAIR), Germany. So far 363 research scholars pursued their research in science during the last three years in these institutions. For more information: Click here to read…

ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum Held in Cambodia

The three-day 3rd ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation forum was held at Phnom Penh, Cambodia where Ms Shalini Kumari from India received first prize in the Grassroots Innovation Competition at the 3rd ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation forum for her innovation ‘Modified walker with adjustable legs’. The technology which was transferred to the industry, Vissco Rehabilitation Aids, a leading manufacturer of orthopaedic products in the country, is available for purchase through Brick and Mortar stores and also through marketplaces like Amazon India for purchase by common people of the country. For more information: Click here to read…

India-Russia Working Group on Modernization & Industrial Cooperation

The 9th Session of the India Russia Working Group on Modernization & Industrial Cooperation of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation was held in New Delhi on 23 December 2022. The Working Group reviewed the results of the eighth session of the working group in the focus sub-groups identified, namely modernization, mining and mineral fertilizers & chemicals. The two sides highlighted the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries and reiterated their commitment to deepen and strengthen mutual cooperation in several areas. For more information: Click here to read…

Netherlands Look to Deepen Technology Collaboration with India

As the next G20 Presidency, India has invited the Netherlands as a guest country. The Netherlands is looking towards India to deepen technology collaboration beyond the water, agriculture and health agenda. In an exclusive interaction with Financial Express Online, ambassador of the Netherlands in India Marten van den Berg said that “There is already a strong collaboration between the Netherlands and India in R&D… But now we are looking at space technologies, as we have a huge space ecosystem, and the European Space Agency is based in the Netherlands.” He added, “We are very much focusing also to connect start-ups here with our technology programmes.” For more information: Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS

US House Bans the Chinese Video App TikTok on Official Devices

The popular Chinese video app TikTok has been banned from all U.S. House of Representatives-managed devices, according to the House’s administration arm, mimicking a law soon to go into effect banning the app from all U.S. government devices. The new rule follows a series of moves by U.S. state governments to ban TikTok, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance Ltd, from government devices. So far 19 states have at least partially blocked the app from state-managed devices over concerns that the Chinese government could use the app to track Americans and censor content. For more information: Click here to read…

Taiwan’s Government to Fine Foxconn for Unauthorized China Investment

Taiwan’s Government has said that it would fine Foxconn, the world’s largest contract electronics maker, for an unauthorized investment in a Chinese chip maker even after the Taiwanese firm said it would be selling the stake. Taiwan has turned a wary eye on China’s ambition to boost its semiconductor industry and is tightening legislation to prevent what it says is China stealing its chip technology. Foxconn, a major Apple Inc. supplier and iPhone maker, disclosed in July it was a shareholder of embattled Chinese chip conglomerate Tsinghua Unigroup. The company has been seeking to acquire chip plants globally as a worldwide chip shortage rattles producers of goods from cars to electronics. Taipei prohibits companies from building their most advanced foundries in China to ensure they do not site their best technology offshore. For more information: Click here to read…

China Seeks Self-Reliance in Agricultural Technology

President Xi Jinping wants China to accelerate efforts to achieve self-reliance in agricultural technology, identifying seed development and core equipment among areas to focus on. The central leadership had said in 2020 that the country’s seed industry was a weak link in the food chain and needed to make better use of science and technology to achieve a turnaround. “It is necessary to keep an eye on the frontiers of the world’s agricultural science and technology,” the official Xinhua news agency quoted Xi as saying at the central rural work conference held in Beijing. President Xi urged China’s agricultural sector to “vigourously improve” its science and technology, with more efficient innovation. For more information: Click here to read…

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest, 01-15 December 2022, Issue 3

January 2, 2023 vd@admin

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

Indian Navy and Coast Guard Being Equipped with Advanced Equipment
DRDO Hands Over AHSP of Akash Weapon System
Space Defence Mission
‘Dare to Dream’ Scheme for Promoting Start-Ups

II. STI in Space Sector

ISRO to Develop “Spatial Data Infrastructure geoportal ‘Geo-Ladakh’
Usage of NaviC System Increased in India
Developing Technologies for Autonomous Precision Landing of Space Rockets
DoS Establishing a Robust Regulatory System for Space Activities

III. Emerging Technologies and Applications

A Total of 84,102 Entities Recognised as Start-ups by the DPIIT
Biotech Start-ups Significantly Increased in Last 8 Years
Guidelines for PLI Incentive Scheme to Support Indigenous Drone Industry Issued
FAME and PLI Schemes Launched for Promoting Use of EVs
Steps Taken to Promote Charging Infrastructure for EVs
Rolling out of 5G Network Services
Government Proposes to Set up More Nuclear Power Plants for Clean Energy
Remaining Four units of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plants to be completed by 2027
Scope for New and Renewable Energy
Space Satellites Herald Agritech Revolution and Agritech Start-Ups
Intra-Nasal Vaccine for COVID Developed by India
AICTE Focuses on Outcome Based Model Curriculum
A Centre of Excellence in AI and Robotics Inaugurated
Digitization of MSMEs

IV. International Cooperation

Setting up of Vedanta FOXCONN Semiconductor Plant in India
India-UAE Space Cooperation
India-Germany Strengthen Partnership on the Skills Agenda
India not Reliant on China for Accessing Rare Earth Minerals

V. Regional and Global Trends

Biden Administration Adds 36 More Chinese firms to its Export List
President Biden Boosts New Semiconductor Fab Facility in Arizona
Apple Plans to Move Production Outside of China to other Countries
Germany Blocks Sale of Two Semiconductor Factories to Chinese Firms
China Spending $143 Billion on Semiconductor Tech to Counter US Ban

I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY

Indian Navy and Coast Guard Being Equipped with Advanced Equipment

Indian Navy (IN) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) are being equipped with indigenous state-of-the-art ships and weapons to protect the maritime borders of the country, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a statement on 2 December 2022. The Minister highlighted a number of initiatives taken by the Government to encourage indigenous manufacturing of weapons/ products and minimise imports by DPSUs. The initiatives include notification of Positive Indigenisation Lists comprising Major Line Replacement Units/Sub-systems and SRIJAN portal. For more information: Click here to read…

DRDO Hands Over AHSP of Akash Weapon System

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) of Akash Weapon System (Indian Army Version) to Missile Systems Quality Assurance Agency (MSQAA) in Hyderabad on 3 December 2022. The handing over was held at Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) which, as a nodal agency, has designed and developed the Akash weapon system. Akash is the first state-of-the-art indigenous surface-to-air missile system which has been with Armed Forces for nearly a decade defending the Indian skies and providing national security. For more information: Click here to read…

Space Defence Mission

Mission DefSpace was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during DefExpo in October 2022 with 75 Defence Space Challenges relevant to the end users. These challenges have been categorised into existing DDP initiatives of iDEX, Make-I and Make-2. Private Industries, including Start-ups, MSMEs and Individual Innovators, are eligible to apply. The challenges, classified into five buckets viz. Launch System, Satellite System, Communication & Payload System, Ground System and Software System, provide a holistic 3600 overview of space. In this regard, several policy initiatives and reforms have been brought to encourage indigenous design, development and manufacture of defence equipment, there by promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing & technology in the country. For more information: Click here to read…

‘Dare to Dream’ Scheme for Promoting Start-Ups

A total of 52 individuals and 34 start-ups have been awarded under three ‘Dare to Dream’ contests out of 5,637 applications received in last three years. A total of 07 projects have been sanctioned and awarded to start-ups of Dare to Dream contest winners so far. DRDO has been launching Dare to Dream Contest every year since 2019 to bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, individuals above 18 years and start-ups, recognised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and with Indian founders, for innovative ideas in the field of Defence and Aerospace. For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR

ISRO to Develop “Spatial Data Infrastructure geoportal ‘Geo-Ladakh’

In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on 7 December 2022, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh said that Government of UT – Ladakh has approached the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), a unit of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for developing “Spatial Data Infrastructure geoportal ‘Geo-Ladakh’ for UT-Ladakh”. The project encompasses spatial database generation (water resources, vegetation and energy potential) using remote sensing, geospatial techniques and the development of a Geo-portal for hosting this database. For more information: Click here to read…

Usage of NaviC System Increased in India

Dr Jitendra Singh, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on 7 December 2022, said that the usage of Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NaviC system) has increased in India. The NaviC system finds utilisation in national projects like public vehicle safety, power grid synchronisation, real-time train information system, fishermen safety, etc. Other upcoming initiatives viz. common alert protocol-based emergency warning, time dissemination, geodetic network, unmanned aerial vehicles, etc. are in the process of adopting NavIC system. The Minister said that many mobile phone models in the country are already having NaviC compatibility. For more information: Click here to read…

Developing Technologies for Autonomous Precision Landing of Space Rockets

The Department of Space (DoS) has initiated studies towards undertaking the development of critical technologies required to achieve Autonomous Precision Landing of Space Rockets and their demonstration through Vertical Take-off & Vertical Landing (VTVL) of Test Vehicles. In order to become an active stakeholder in the small satellite market, ISRO/DoS has initiated development of Spacecraft buses for the small satellites, which includes nano-satellite and micro-satellites. For more information: Click here to read…

DoS Establishing a Robust Regulatory System for Space Activities

The DoS is in the process of establishing a predictable, forward-looking, enabling regulatory regime for space activities in India, through a comprehensive, well-defined policy for the entire gamut of such activities, Minister Jitendra Singh said on 7 December in a Statement in the Lok Sabha in reply to a question regarding launch of Vikram-S Rocket. The New Space India Limited (NSIL) a Public Sector Enterprise under the DoS, has been empowered to bring a commerce-oriented approach to space activities. For more information: Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

A Total of 84,102 Entities Recognised as Start-ups by the DPIIT

Under Start-up India Initiative, a total of 59,787 entities were recognised as start-ups in the last ﬁve years (years 2017-2021) by the DPIIT. As on 30th November 2022, 84,102 entities have been recognised as start-ups by the DPIIT. Recognized startups are spread across 56 sectors. Sustained Government eﬀorts in this direction have resulted in increasing the number of recognized Startups from 452 in 2016 to 84,012 in 2022 (as on 30th November 2022), Minister of State in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Som Parkash said in reply to a parliament question on 7 December. For more information: Click here to read…

Biotech Start-ups Significantly Increased in Last 8 Years

Addressing an “International Conference on Emerging Trends in Biosciences and Chemical Technology- 2022”, Dr Jitendra Singh said that India’s bio-economy has grown 8 times in the last 8 years under Prime Minister Modi from $10 billion in 2014 to over $80 billion in 2022. Biotech Start-ups have grown 100 times in the last 8 years from 52 odd startups in 2014 to 5300 plus in 2022. The Minister pointed out that from a paltry investment of Rs 10 Crore in Bio-economy in 2014, the fund growth saw 400 times hike to Rs 4200 crore in 2022, creating over 25,000 high skilled jobs. For more information: Click here to read…

Guidelines for PLI Incentive Scheme to Support Indigenous Drone Industry Issued

For the effective operation and smooth implementation of the PLI scheme, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has formulated and notified the operational guidelines. The guidelines have been notified on 29th November 2022 for the information of all the stakeholders and the public. To make India a global hub for the research and development, testing, manufacturing, and operation of drones under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, the liberalised Drone Rules, 2021 were released to create a growth-oriented regulatory framework for drones. To facilitate further growth, the Government has approved Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Drones and Drone Components in India. For the implementation of this scheme during 2022-23 to 2024-25, a corpus of Rs 120 crores has been allocated. For more information: Click here to read…

Reform Measures to Promote Drone Industry

The Government of India has undertaken a series of reform measures to promote India’s upcoming drone industry which include: Drones Rules, 2021 notified on 25 August 2021 provide the necessary regulatory framework for commercial use of drones; Drone Airspace Map published on 24th September 2021; PLI scheme to promote the growth of drone manufacturing by private companies launched in 30 September 2021; and, UAS Traffic Management (UTM) Policy Framework was published on 24th October 2021. Ministry of Civil Aviation has proactively engaged with various Union Ministries and State/UT Governments across the country to promote drone applications. For more information: Click here to read…

FAME and PLI Schemes Launched for Promoting Use of EVs

For promoting the use of electric vehicles in the country and to make their manufacturing cost effective, following three schemes have been formulated by the Ministry of Heavy Industries: Phase II of Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme initially for a period of three years commencing from April 2019 with a total budgetary support of Rs. 10,000 crore; the PLI Scheme for Automotive Sector with a budgetary outlay of Rs. 25,938 crores approved in September 2021; and, PLI Scheme for manufacturing of Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) in the country with a budgetary outlay of Rs. 18,100 crore approved in May 2021. For more information: Click here to read…

Steps Taken to Promote Charging Infrastructure for EVs

Under phase-II of FAME-India Scheme, Rs. 1000 Cr. is allocated for the development of charging infrastructure. The Ministry of Heavy Industries has sanctioned 2,877 electric vehicle charging stations in 68 cities across 25 states/UTs. Further, 1576 charging stations across 9 Expressways and 16 Highways under phase-II of FAME India Scheme has also been sanctioned. For more information: Click here to read…

Rolling out of 5G Network Services

The Minister of State for Communications, Devusinh Chauhan in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on 14 December said that Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have started providing 5G services in the country from 1st October 2022 onwards and as of 26 November 2022, 5G services have started in 50 towns distributed over 14 States/UTs. As per the Notice Inviting Application (NIA) dated 15 June 2022 for auction of spectrum and the license conditions, the rollout obligations are required to be met over a period of five years, in a phased manner, from the date of allocation of spectrum. For more information: Click here to read…

S&T in Energy

Government Proposes to Set up More Nuclear Power Plants for Clean Energy

The Government of India has proposed to set up more nuclear power plants for augmenting production of clean energy. In addition to the eleven (11) reactors (8700 MW) under construction, the Government of India has accorded administrative approval and financial sanction for construction of ten (10) indigenous 700 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) to be set up in fleet mode. The Government has also accorded in principle approval for five new sites for setting up nuclear power plants in the future. The present installed nuclear power capacity comprises of 22 reactors with a total capacity of 6780 MW. In addition, one reactor, KAPP-3 (700 MW) has also been connected to the grid. For more information: Click here to read…

Remaining Four units of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plants to be completed by 2027

At present, Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant Units 1&2 of 1000 MW capacity each are already in operation and the remaining four units of 1000 MW each are under construction. On their progressive completion, the full capacity of Kudankulam site of 6000 MW is expected to be reached by the year 2027, Dr Jitendra Singh said in a statement laid on the table of the Rajya Sabha in reply to a question on 8 December. For more information: Click here to read…

Scope for New and Renewable Energy

In line with the Prime Minister’s announcement at COP26, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is working towards achieving 500 GW of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030, and achieving Net Zero by 2070. A total of 172.72 GW capacity from non-fossil fuel based energy resources has been installed in the country as on 31 October 2022. This includes 119.09 GW Renewable Energy, 46.85 GW Large Hydro and 6.78 GW Nuclear Power capacity. This constitutes a share of 42.26% of total installed generation capacity in the country i.e. 408.71 GW as on 31 October 2022. For more information: Click here to read…

S&T in Agriculture

Space Satellites Herald Agritech Revolution and Agritech Start-Ups

Space Satellites herald Agritech revolution and Agritech Start-Ups which is going to mark a major next breakthrough for India’s Agriculture sector after the Green revolution of yesteryears. Dr Jitendra Singh and Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar, formally released the data products and services of RISAT-1A satellite for the user community in Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi on 13 December. The Trinity of Geospatial Systems, Drone Policy and Unlocked Space Sector will be a game-changer for Indian Agriculture in both augmenting the farmer’s income and realising the vision of the $5 trillion economy. For more information: Click here to read…

S&T in Health

Intra-Nasal Vaccine for COVID Developed by India

World’s first intra-nasal vaccine for COVID developed by India has got approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for restricted use in emergency situations in the age group of 18 and above. Dr Jitendra Singh informed that the Product development and Clinical trials were funded by the Department of biotechnology, Government of India and BIRAC under the Mission COVID Suraksha Programme. India’s efforts through Mission COVID Suraksha under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi has not only strengthened AtmaNirbhar Bharat but also bolstered India’s status as a worldwide vaccine development and manufacturing center showcasing the strength of Science and Technology. For more information: Click here to read…

S&T in Education

AICTE Focuses on Outcome Based Model Curriculum

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 highlights the importance of focusing on student learning outcomes and making quality education accessible, affordable, equitable and inclusive. Accordingly, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has revamped the existing curriculum and launched outcome based Model curriculum for Diploma, Undergraduate and Post Graduate courses in Engineering and PGDM/MBA. AICTE has also prepared Model curriculum for courses in Emerging Areas like (i) Artificial Intelligence (AI), (ii) Internet of Things (IoT), (iii) Block Chain, (iv) Robotics, (v) Quantum Computing (vi) Data Science (vii) Cyber Security (viii) 3D Printing and Design and (ix) Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR) etc., and permitted in engineering institutes from academic year 2020-21. For more information: Click here to read…

AIM Launches Community Innovator Fellowship

On 1 December 2022, Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, in collaboration with UNDP India announced the launch of applications for Community Innovator Fellowship (CIF) to facilitate knowledge building and provide infrastructure support to aspiring community innovators essential for their entrepreneurship journey. Currently there are 22 Community Innovator fellows being incubated at the Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC) programme of AIM. For more information: Click here to read…

A Centre of Excellence in AI and Robotics Inaugurated

On 3 December 2022, the Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurated a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics at the Jyothi Engineering College in Thrissur, Kerala and expressed hope that it will encourage young Indians to venture into innovation and applications of AI and robotics in different fields. The Minister said there is already a wave of opportunities for innovation and startups in India. For more information: Click here to read…

MoU Signed for Learning in the field of AI and ML

Chitkara University announced its collaboration with NEC Corporation India, a wholly owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation, for a comprehensive academic programme for aspiring students to facilitate them with hands-on training and research facilities in the area of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (Al/ML) and High-Performance Computing (HPC). A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between NEC Corporation India and Chitkara University. The agreement will provide an opportunity for the University to upskill its students, faculty and academic researchers in the field of AI. For more information: Click here to read…

Other Socio-Economic Sectors

E-Shram Portal, Database on Migrant Workers, Launched

Ministry of Labour & Employment has launched e-SHRAM portal, a National Database of the Unorganised Workers on 26 August 2021. It has been made available to the States/ UTs for registration of unorganised workers on e-SHRAM portal. The main objective of the e-SHRAM portal is to create a national database of all unorganised workers including Construction Workers, Gig and Platform workers, Street Vendors, Domestic Workers, Agriculture Workers, Migrant workers and similar other workers seeded with Aadhaar. For more information: Click here to read…

Digitization of MSMEs

As on date 1.24 crore Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are registered in Udyam Registration portal and further benefitted through various programmes. Under the MSME Champions Schemes ‘Digital MSME’ component has been included for digital empowerment of MSMEs in the country. The Ministry of MSME propose to support MSMEs through “Digital MSME” a component of MSME Champions Scheme to bring in digitization and digitalization and to make MSMEs digitally empowered and motivate them to adopt digital tools, applications and technologies in their production & business processes with a view to improve their competitiveness. For more information: Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Setting up of Vedanta FOXCONN Semiconductor Plant in India

Vedanta Semiconductors Ltd., a Joint Venture between Vedanta and Foxconn is an applicant under the Scheme for setting up of semiconductor Fabs in India. As per their application, Telangana, Gujarat and Maharashtra, were proposed as possible locations. However, the applicants in their final submissions have informed that they had decided Dholera Industrial City, Gujarat as final location for their proposal, and have submitted definitive agreement and Government orders from the Government of Gujarat stating the details of support from the State. This information was provided by the Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on 7 December. For more information: Click here to read…

India-UAE Space Cooperation

Addressing the Opening Ceremony of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) summit, “Abu Dhabi Space Debate” on 5 December 2022, Dr Jitendra Singh described India as a key Global Player in the Space sector and reiterated that under Prime Minister Modi, India is keen to take its Space cooperation with the UAE to newer heights. The Minister said that development of the Space sector is one of the priority areas for the leaders of both India and the UAE and added that India started its space journey seven decades back from a scratch and is today acknowledged to be a leading space power. He said that the indigenously developed Space sector of India and the fast-growing Space sector of the UAE have a lot of complementariness that can be harnessed. He shared that India’s active space partnership with the UAE dates back to 2017, when our PSLV launched UAE’s first nanosatellite – ‘Nayif-1’ meant for collecting environmental space data. For more information: Click here to read…

India-Germany Strengthen Partnership on the Skills Agenda

To propel economic growth by empowering the youth with the right skills and providing them the access to right opportunities, 12th meeting of the Indo-German joint working group was held in New Delhi on 7 December to encourage Vocational Education and Training (VET). The deliberations at the meeting were aimed at institutionalizing a standard mechanism for VET to meet the skill requirements in priority sectors as per the German standards. A skill mapping exercise will be undertaken to assess the skill gaps and based on the same, bridge courses and upskilling programmes will be designed for skill training of Indian workers. For more information: Click here to read…

India not Reliant on China for Accessing Rare Earth Minerals

In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on 14 December, Dr Jitendra Singh said that India is not reliant on China for accessing rare earth minerals. In India, capacity and capabilities in terms of mining, processing, extraction, refining and production of high pure RE oxides is adequately available. The Minister said that the production of Monazite the primary source of rare earth mineral in India is around 4000 MT per annum. For more information: Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS

Biden Administration Adds 36 More Chinese firms to its Export List

On 15 December 2022, the Biden administration added 36 Chinese firms to its export blacklist on efforts to block Beijing’s access to advanced military and surveillance technology from the U.S. Yangtze Memory Technologies, one of China’s largest chip makers, was added to the U.S.’s “Entity List” alongside 34 other Chinese companies and one Chinese subsidiary located in Japan, essentially blocking the firms from receiving U.S. technology. US Undersecretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, Alan Estevez in a statement said that the additions to the Entity List will severely restrict China’s ability to “leverage artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and other powerful, commercially available technologies for military modernization and human rights abuses.” For more information: Click here to read…

President Biden Boosts New Semiconductor Fab Facility in Arizona

On 6 December 2022, US President Joe Biden’s visit to a massive construction project in north Phoenix highlighted Arizona’s role in a major U.S. policy shift on semiconductor manufacturing.
The Biden administration is pushing to boost domestic chips manufacturing with more than $50 billion in subsidies in the new CHIPs and Science Act. President Biden’s visit to the new fabrication facility being built by Taiwanese chips giant TSMC came as the firm announced it would build a second fabrication facility and triple its investment in Phoenix to $40 billion. For more information: Click here to read…

Apple Plans to Move Production Outside of China to other Countries

The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. smartphone giant Apple Inc. is accelerating plans to move some China-based production lines to other southeastern Asian countries such as India and Vietnam. That would represent a significant shift in the so-called de-Sinification of global supply chains after manufacturers become aware of risks of concentrating production in China. Stephen Ezell, director of global innovation policy at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) in Washington told Voice of America (VOA) that more multinationals might follow suit if Apple succeeds in shipping products from India, as it had produced a small percentage of iPhone 14s there. For more information: Click here to read…

Germany Blocks Sale of Two Semiconductor Factories to Chinese Firms

Geopolitica.Info reported that Germany by blocking the sale of two semiconductor factories to Chinese companies showcased that it “will not allow China to swallow up its companies of strategic and critical importance”. Berlin’s decision comes despite German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to China in November amid criticism by lawmakers from his country and the European Union. For more information: Click here to read…

China Spending $143 Billion on Semiconductor Tech to Counter US Ban

China is spending $143 billion to combat U.S. moves to cut off its supply of semiconductor technology. The funds will be used to provide financial subsidies and incentives to help China’s chipmakers develop and acquire semiconductor technology to withstand the U.S. move. Meanwhile, China has initiated the process of challenging the U.S. order at the World Trade Organization. Its Commerce Ministry has accused the United States of “generalizing the concept of national security and abusing export control measures, which hinders the normal international trade in chips and other products.” For more information: Click here to read…

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest, 16-30 November 2022, Issue 2

December 5, 2022 vd@admin

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

Project 15B Stealth Guided Missile Destroyers Delivered to the Indian Navy
India Carries Out Successful Training Launch of IRBM, Agni-3
Export of Defence Items and Technology Increasing

II. STI in Space Sector

Maiden Private Vikram-Suborbital (VKS) Rocket Launched
Earth Observation Satellite-6 (EOS-6) Launched

III. Emerging Technologies and Applications

India Ranks at 61st as per Network Readiness Index 2022
Number of Startups and Unicorns in India Growing
MeitY Invites Feedback on the Draft ‘Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2022’
TRAI Releases Recommendations on Regulatory Framework for Data Economy
Entrepreneurship Cell and Centre of Innovation Inaugurated
Development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) for Clean Energy Transition
India’s first Centre of Excellence for Green Port & Shipping Established
MoU Signed for Promotion of Research and Scientific Intervention in the Ayush Sector
Workshop for Digital Transformation of EMRSs
MoU Signed with Six Indian Engineering Institutes

IV. International Cooperation

Preparations of Science-20 Meetings of the G-20 Summit
India will Work Jointly with G-20 Partners on Digital Technologies
India Takes Over the Chair of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence
India-Bhutan Satellite Cooperation
India-France Defence Tech Cooperation
India-Germany S&T Cooperation
India-US Defence Tech Cooperation

V. Regional and Global Trends

Global Semiconductor Revenue Growth to Decline in 2023
US FCC Bans Import and Sale of Technology from Chinese Companies
AI Blood Testing Technology Developed
NVidia and Microsoft to Collaborate to Create AI Supercomputer

I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY

Project 15B Stealth Guided Missile Destroyers Delivered to the Indian Navy

On 24 November 2022, Y 12705 (Mormugao), the second ship of Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyers being built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), was delivered to the Indian Navy. The contract for four ships of Project 15B was signed on 28 January 2011. The delivery of Mormugao is an affirmation of the impetus being given by the Government of India and the Indian Navy towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ as part of celebration of the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
For more information: Click here to read…

India Carries Out Successful Training Launch of IRBM, Agni-3

India carried out a successful training launch of an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM), Agni-3 from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha on 23 November 2022. It was part of routine user training launches carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command (SFC). It was carried out for a predetermined range and validated all operational parameters of the system.
For more information:Click here to read…

Export of Defence Items and Technology Increasing

India achieved exports of defence items and technology worth a record Rs 13,000 crores in 2021-22 and this figure is likely to rise to Rs 17,000 crores in 2022-23, stated Srikar K. Reddy, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India on 29 November 2022. He added in the statement that “Several factors like rising demand, greater innovation, more conducive policies and a maturing ecosystem in defence and aerospace manufacturing space are leading to the growth in the sector.”
For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR

Maiden Private Vikram-Suborbital (VKS) Rocket Launched

On 18 November 2022, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history by launching successfully India’s maiden private Vikram-suborbital (VKS) rocket. This is a major milestone in the journey of ISRO, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi unlocked the Space Sector in 2020 for private participation. ISRO in a statement said that Mission Prarambh is successfully accomplished. It carried a total of three payloads in space, including one from the foreign customers.
For more information:Click here to read…

Earth Observation Satellite-6 (EOS-6) Launched

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in partnership with Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) among others launched the third generation Indian satellite for monitoring the oceans, formally named as Earth Observation Satellite-6 (EOS-6), from its First Launch Pad (FLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota on 26 November 2022. The ocean observing mission is a follow up to OceanSat-1 or IRS-P4 and OceanSat-2 launched in 1999 and 2009, respectively.
For more information:Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

India Ranks at 61st as per Network Readiness Index 2022

India has improved its position by six slots and is now placed at 61st rank as per the Network Readiness Index 2022 (NRI 2022) report released recently by the Portulans Institute, an independent non-profit, nonpartisan research and educational institute based in Washington DC. In its latest version of 2022, the NRI Report maps the network-based readiness landscape of 131 economies based on their performances in four different pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact covering a total of 58 variables. India secured 1st rank in “AI talent concentration”, 2nd rank in “Mobile broadband internet traffic within the country” and “International Internet bandwidth”, 3rd rank in “Annual investment in telecommunication services” and “Domestic market size”, 4th rank in “ICT Services exports”, 5th rank in “FTTH/Building Internet subscriptions” and “AI scientific publications”.
For more information:Click here to read…

Number of Startups and Unicorns in India Growing

A Digital India Startup Hub Launched in Karnataka

The Minister of State for E&IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurated a Digital India start-up hub at the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) centre at Davanagere, Karnataka on 25 November 2022. This is the 63rd STPI centre in the country and the fifth in the Karnataka. The Minister said that India has the fastest growing innovation system with more than 80,000 Start-ups and over 107 Unicorns.
For more information:Click here to read…

Start-Ups as a Force Multiplier in the Sphere of Technology and Innovation

Technology, innovation and problem-solving approach of start-ups is a force multiplier which will help India acquire global dominance in the sphere of technology and innovation, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Textiles, Piyush Goyal said at the 25th Bangaluru Tech Summit in Bengaluru on 18 November 2022. The Minister pointed out that over 40 out of the 107 unicorns are housed in Bengaluru and a huge ecosystem has been created here in form of private equity investors, venture capitalists, R&D centres, incubation centres, and the very high quality of talent and manpower skills.
For more information:Click here to read…

Start-up Applications for MAARG Portal Launched

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has launched startup applications for the MAARG portal, the National Mentorship Platform by Start-up India. To further boost the Indian start-up ecosystem, currently ranked 3rd largest globally, Start-up India is focused on catalysing the start-up culture and building a strong and inclusive ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship in India. Start-ups can now effectively connect with academicians, industry experts, successful founders, seasoned investors, and other experts from across the globe, through Artificial Intelligence (AI) based matchmaking, to get personalized guidance on growth and strategy.
For more information:Click here to read…

MeitY Invites Feedback on the Draft ‘Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2022’

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has been deliberating on various aspects of digital personal data and its protection, and has formulated a draft Bill, titled ‘The Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2022’. The purpose of the draft Bill is to provide for the processing of digital personal data in a manner that recognizes both the right of individuals to protect their personal data and the need to process personal data for lawful purposes, and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. The Ministry has invited feedback from the public on the draft Bill Chapter wise Feedback may be submitted by 17 December 2022.
For more information:Click here to read…

Controlling Noise in the Domain of Quantum Technology

A new study conducted by Bengaluru-based scientists has thrown fresh light on how a charged particle in contact with an environment in the presence of a magnetic field behaves when it is subjected to ultra-cold temperatures. Scientists involved in the study have said that the latest findings could deepen existing knowledge and explore ways to control noise in the domain of quantum technology.
For more information:Click here to read…

S&T in Telecom Sector

TRAI Releases Recommendations on Regulatory Framework for Data Economy

On 18 November 2022, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released its recommendations on ‘Regulatory Framework for Promoting Data Economy Through Establishment of Data Centres (DCs), Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), and Interconnect Exchanges (IXPs) in India’. The Authority suo-moto issued detailed Consultation Paper (CP) on the subject and after considering the comments/ inputs received from the stakeholders during consultation process and further analysis of the issues, Authority has finalized these Recommendations to boost to digital infrastructure ecosystem in the country including DCs, CDNs and IXPs.
For more information:Click here to read…

Entrepreneurship Cell and Centre of Innovation Inaugurated

On 23 November 2022, the Entrepreneurship Cell and Centre of Innovation (COI) was established at the Delhi campus of the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the Telecom R&D Centre of the Government of India. COI has been established to spur indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship in various domains of Telecom like IoT/M2M, AI/ML, 5G, etc. by encouraging local start-ups to play a significant role in strengthening the overall technological framework.
For more information:Click here to read…

S&T in Energy

Development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) for Clean Energy Transition

India is taking steps for development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR), with up to 300 MW capacity to fulfill its commitment to Clean Energy transition. SMR is a promising technology in industrial de-carbonization especially where there is a requirement of reliable and continuous supply of power. It is said that SMR is simpler and safer as compared to large nuclear plants. However, “Technology sharing and availability of funding are the two crucial links for ensuring commercial availability of SMR technology.”
For more information:Click here to read…

India’s first Centre of Excellence for Green Port & Shipping Established

The Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal announced the establishment of India’s first National Centre of Excellence for Green Port & Shipping (NCoEGPS), a major initiative by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping towards providing greener solutions. The centre aims to develop a regulatory framework and alternate technology adoption road map for Green Shipping to foster carbon neutrality and circular economy (CE) in shipping sector in India.
For more information:Click here to read…

S&T in Health

MoU Signed for Promotion of Research and Scientific Intervention in the Ayush Sector

On 25 November 2022, the Ministry of Ayush and Department of Science and Technology (DST) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will identify the potential areas of research to explore cooperation, convergence, and synergy for evidence-based scientific intervention in the Ayush sector and further application of these into the public health care system. Secretary, DST said that “Traditional knowledge and modern science are joining hands especially in health sciences…we will come up with solutions, which will be available at affordable prices.”
For more information:Click here to read…

S&T in Education

Workshop for Digital Transformation of EMRSs

National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) in collaboration with Microsoft Corporation India Private Limited organized an online workshop for Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) Principals and School Heads on “Education Transformation Framework” (ETF) on 21 November 2022. The workshop was first in its journey of transformation, other components include professional development of teachers using Microsoft Technologies & AI applications; building exposure of students to AI & Coding; sharing of Coding Curriculum for Grade 6th to 12th & AI curriculum for Grade 8th to 12th; workshop on Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) program etc.
For more information:Click here to read…

MoU Signed with Six Indian Engineering Institutes

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with top six engineering institutes of India: i) Indian Institute of Technology BHU, ii) Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, iii) Indian Institute of Technology Indore, iv) Indian Institute of Technology Patna, v) Indian Institute of Technology Madras, and vi) National Institute of Technology Trichy; for introducing Indian standards as an integral part of the curriculum. This is initiative is towards institutionalizing engagement of BIS with the eminent institutes for securing active participation of academia. It will promote excellence and leadership in teaching and research & development in the field of Science and various disciplines in the respective institutes.
For more information: Click here to read…

Other Socio-Cultural Sectors

Fourth Phase of Digital Shakti 4.0 Campaign Launched

In line with its commitment to create safe spaces for women and girls online, the National Commission for Women (NCW) launched the fourth phase of Digital Shakti Campaign, a pan-India project on digitally empowering and skilling women and girls in the cyberspace, on 16 November 2022. Digital Shakti 4.0 is focused on making women digitally skilled and aware to stand up against any illegal/inappropriate activity online. NCW launched it in collaboration with Cyber Peace Foundation and Meta.
For more information:Click here to read…

First Edition of the Film Technology Exhibition Held in Goa

International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2022, which was hosted by Goa from 20 to 28 November 2022, provided a new and exciting experience to the film enthusiasts this year. Film Technology Exhibition at the 53rd IFFI showcased technology and various elements pertaining to film art/cinema and aesthetics. Film enthusiasts visiting the exhibition are being taken through the inter-linkages of technology in the context of film art and aesthetics and also how these elements come together and enrich viewer experience.
For more information:Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Preparations of Science-20 Meetings of the G-20 Summit

On 19 November 2022, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) S&T and Earth Sciences, Jitendra Singh chaired a high level review meeting for the preparations of Science-20 (S-20) meetings of the G-20 Summit to be held in Delhi 2023. The meeting was attended by Principal Scientific Advisor to Government of India Ajay Kumar Sood and Secretaries of all the six Science Ministries and Departments, including Science & Technology, Biotechnology, CSIR, Earth Sciences, Space and Atomic Energy. Apart from S-20 Summit and Side meetings, another important event assigned to DST is Research Innovation Initiated Gathering (RIIG) with side events. The Minister said that the expected deliverables of the S-20 and RIIG will be Creation of better and encouraging frameworks for environmentally responsible technologies and assertion of IP sharing and technology transfers, Creation of a global ecosystem for start-up mentorship and funding, Encouragement of more mega science projects, among others. The S-20 Summit meeting will be held in Coimbatore from 21 to 22 July 2023 with the theme of “Disruptive Science for Innovative and Sustainable Growth”.
For more information:Click here to read…

India will Work Jointly with G-20 Partners on Digital Technologies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address at the G-20 Summit in Bali on 16 November 2022 said that Digital transformation is the most remarkable change of our era. The proper use of digital technologies can become a force multiplier in the decades-long global fight against poverty. Digital solutions can also be helpful in the fight against climate change – as we all saw in the examples of remote-working and paperless green offices during Covid. But these benefits will be realized only when the digital access is truly inclusive and when the use of digital technology is really widespread. During its G-20 Presidency next year, India will work jointly with G-20 partners towards this objective.
For more information:Click here to read…

India Takes Over the Chair of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence

On 22 November 2022, India assumed the Chair of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), an international initiative to support responsible and human-centric development and use of AI. India is building an ecosystem of modern cyber laws and framework that is driven by three boundary conditions of openness, safety and trust and accountability. AI is expected to add USD $967 Bn to Indian economy by 2035 and USD 450–500 billion to India’s GDP by 2025, accounting for 10% of the country’s USD 5 trillion GDP target. AI is a Kinetic enabler for growth of India’s Technology ecosystem and a force multiplier for achieving $1 Trillion Digital Economy goal by 2025.
For more information:Click here to read…

India-Bhutan Satellite Cooperation

On 26 November 2022, the India-Bhutan SAT, jointly developed by India and Bhutan was launched into space by ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). The PSLV C54 carried the India-Bhutan SAT, along with India’s Earth Observation Satellite -06 and other satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India. The India-Bhutan SAT will provide high resolution images to Bhutan for their natural resources management.
For more information:Click here to read…

India-France Defence Tech Cooperation

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held the 4th India-France Annual Defence Dialogue with the French Minister of Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu in New Delhi on 28 November 2022. During the dialogue, one of the key areas of discussion was defence industrial cooperation with a focus on ‘Make in India’. Future collaborations and potential co-production opportunities were discussed. The Ministers agreed that the technical groups from both the countries should meet early next year and take the key cooperation issues forward.For more information: Click here to read…

India-Germany S&T Cooperation

A total of 11 career researchers from India and Germany have received the ‘Paired Early Career Fellowship in Applied Research (PECFAR)’ which will facilitate their short-duration visit to explore opportunities for connecting and networking for research collaborations between India and Germany in frontier areas of S&T. This is the first time researchers have received this award under the PECFAR, which was launched recently to facilitate a two-way exchange between early-career researchers from India and German.
For more information:Click here to read…

India-US Defence Tech Cooperation

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in Siem Reap, Cambodia on 22 November 2022 where they discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest while expressing their commitment to a strong India-US defence cooperation. Defence Minister Singh emphasised the need for both countries to work together for capability building in critical domains such as military aviation, artificial intelligence and cyber technology, and he also highlighted a number of areas where US defence companies can look for technology cooperation and manufacturing opportunities with Indian partners in India.
For more information:Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS

Global Semiconductor Revenue Growth to Decline in 2023

According to the latest forecast from Gartner, global semiconductor revenue is projected to decline 3.6% to total $596 billion in 2023, down from the previous forecast of $623 billion. In 2022, the market is on pace to grow 4% and total $618 billion. Practice Vice President at Gartner, Richard Gordon said that “Rapid deterioration in the global economy and weakening consumer demand will negatively impact the semiconductor market in 2023.”
For more information: Click here to read…

US FCC Bans Import and Sale of Technology from Chinese Companies

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned the import and sale of certain Chinese technology equipment that it determined poses “an unacceptable risk to national security.” FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr said in a statement that the order bars equipment from the Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE from approval, and equipment from Dahua, Hikvision and Hytera can be approved for import and sale only if they assure the FCC that their equipment won’t be used for public safety, security of government facilities or other national security purposes.
For more information: Click here to read…

AI Blood Testing Technology Developed

A new artificial intelligence blood testing technology developed and used by researchers of Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center to successfully detect lung cancer in a 2021 study has now detected more than 80% of liver cancers in a new study of 724 people. The researchers believe this is the first genome-wide fragmentation analysis independently validated in two high-risk populations and across different racial and ethnic groups with different causes associated with their liver cancers.
For more information: Click here to read…Click here to read…

NVidia and Microsoft to Collaborate to Create AI Supercomputer

A “multi-year collaboration” between Nvidia and Microsoft is underway to create “one of the most powerful AI supercomputer’s in the world,” which will be able to manage the enormous processing workloads required to train and scale AI.
For more information: Click here to read…

Defense, National Security and Terrorism

VIF News Digest: National Security – Defence Studies & Terrorism, 01-15 July 2022

July 22, 2022 vd@admin

DEFENCE

DRDO conducts successful maiden flight of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.
Indian Army organised the “Suraksha Manthan 2022”.
New manufacturing facilities at Bharat Dynamics Limited.
Indian Navy ships visit Singapore, Republic of Seychellesand a long range overseas deployment.
CEO of French aircraft engine maker SAFRAN Group calls on Raksha Mantri (RM).
6th Deputy National Security Adviser Level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave.
Indian Navy’s INS Satpura and P8i participate in the RIMPAC Harbour Phase.
Indian Air Force contingent participating in a exercise with the Egyptian Air Force (EAF) in Egypt.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence (Coe) launched by IAF.
First-ever ‘AI in Defence’ symposium & exhibition in New Delhi.
Brazilian Navy delegation on visit to India.
Ministry of Defence sets up an Apex Committee for Performance and Efficiency Audit.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

“Hizbu’llah used Iranian drones against the Karish gas field”, claimed Israel’s Defence Minister.

Africa

Nigeria

Islamist attack freed hundreds of prisoners in Nigeria.

Pakistan

Ahead of FATF’s visit, Pakistan doubled the efforts to ‘locate’ JeM chief Masood Azhar.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA searched multiple locations in Kashmir in “Sunjwan terrorist attack” case.
Security forces eliminated two terrorists, including a JeM commander, in Pulwama.
“In last four years, 700 local youths were recruited by terror groups in UT of J&K”: MHA.

Left-Wing Extremism

Police arrested a Maoist wanted in SP’s killing case.
Over 600 explosives and 495 detonators recovered in anti-Maoist operation in Bihar.
50 IEDs seized from Aurangabad in Bihar.

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

NIA Special Court (Ernakulam) convicted three Islamic State members in “ISIS Valapattanam case”.
NIA searched multiple locations in Rajasthan in “Udaipur killing” case.
NIA conducted search at multiple locations in Maharashtra in “Umesh Kolhe’s killing” case.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

NIA filed chargesheet against four KTF associates accused of conspiring the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar.
MEA raised concerns over the participation of Australian Sikh soldiers at pro-Khalistan event in New South Wales, Australia.
Pro-Khalistan elements vandalized Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Canada.
Police arrested a pro-Khalistan supporter from Jalandhar.

DEFENCE

DRDO conducts successful maiden flight of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.

Maiden flight of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator was carried out successfully by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Operating in a fully autonomous mode, the aircraft exhibited a perfect flight, including take-off, way point navigation and a smooth touchdown. It is powered by a small turbofan engine, the airframe, undercarriage and entire flight control and avionics systems used for the aircraft were developed indigenously.This flight marks a major milestone in terms of proving critical technologies towards the development of future unmanned aircraft.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Army organised the “Suraksha Manthan 2022”.

The Desert Corps of the Indian Army organised the “Suraksha Manthan 2022”, on aspects of Border & Coastal Security at Jodhpur (Rajasthan). During the course of the discussions, aspects of interoperability, operational cohesion and logistics were ironed out in order to enhance overall security along the International Boundary (IB) and coastal sectors. A joint training calendar was also formulated to achieve a higher degree of interoperability and jointness amongst the security forces. Current security threats and challenges, along with joint mitigation response, were deliberated upon and such scenarios would now form part of the forthcoming exercises. It was further decided to create an enabling security environment and develop a tangible capability development road map to achieve the same.
Reference: Click here to read…

New manufacturing facilities at Bharat Dynamics Limited

Raksha Mantri dedicated to the Nation a number of new manufacturing facilities set up by the Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU). These include a Warhead facility at the Bhanur Unit and a Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker facility at Kanchanbagh Unit. The RF Seeker Facility, which was virtually inaugurated by the Raksha Mantri, is an integrated Centre for production & testing of RF seekers. This facility has been established by BDL with an investment of Rs 50 crore.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Navy ships visit Singapore, Republic of Seychelles and long range overseas deployment

As part of their deployment to South East Asia, Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kadmatt under the Command of Rear Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, NM, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, visited Singapore from 01 – 03 July 2022. INS Sahyadri is an indigenously built multi-role stealth Frigate and INS Kadmatt is an indigenously built ASW Corvette.
For more information: Click here to read…

INS Kolkata, an indigenously built Stealth Guided Missile Destroyer of the Indian Navy, was deployed to Port Victoria, Seychelles to coincide with the Independence Day of Seychelles on 29 June 22. During the port call, INS Kolkata delivered two engines of Dornier Aircraft of the SDF, which were overhauled at Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Hyderabad. A set of engineering spares were also delivered to Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) for sustenance of SCG ships.
For more information: Click here to read…

As a part of the Long range overseas deployment, Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tarkash, visited Djibouti as part of her long range overseas deployment followed by Maritime Partnership Exercise with Sudan Navy. The ship is on a deployment to Rio de Janerio, Brazil, which is intended to coincide with the Independence Day enabling her to hoist the tricolour in South America on the occasion as part of AzadikaAmritMahotsav.
For more information: Click here to read…

CEO of French aircraft engine maker SAFRAN Group calls on Raksha Mantri (RM)

A high-level delegation of French company Safran Group led by its CEO Mr Olivier Andries called on Raksha Mantri in New Delhi on July 05, 2022. During the meeting, the CEO of Safran briefed the Raksha Mantri of their company’s plans to set up a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India for overhaul of LEAP-1A & LEAP-1B engines in use by Indian and foreign commercial airlines. The MRO facility through direct foreign investment of $US 150 million in Hyderabad is expected to create 500-600 highly skilled jobs. The facility will be able to overhaul over 250 engines per year in the beginning.

The CEO also briefed Shri Rajnath Singh of their plan to inaugurate this week Safran Aircraft Engines and Safran Electrical & Power India Pvt Ltd. – both to come up in Hyderabad and Safran-HAL Aircraft Engines as a joint venture in Bengaluru. Safran aircraft engine, Hyderabad, with an investment of Euro 36 million and located on 10 acres land in the Hyderabad SEZ, will produce parts and components for advanced aircraft engines including rotating seals. Safran Electrical & Power India Pt Ltd will produce harness for civil and fighter jets. The joint venture between Safran and HAL is for production of rigid piping for aircraft engines including helicopter engines. The joint venture is expected to hire 160 new highly skilled personnel.

The CEO of Safran outlined his company’s long-term plan in co-development and co-production of advanced jet engines and transfer of technology as per existing policy of Government of India. He briefed Shri Rajnath Singh on capabilities of Safran in areas of technology beyond aircraft engine.
For more information: Click here to read…

6th Deputy National Security Adviser Level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave

The Member States of the Colombo Security Conclave comprising India, Maldives, Mauritius and Sri Lanka, successfully concluded the 6th Deputy National Security Adviser level meeting held on 7 July 2022 hosted by the National Security Council Secretariat of India in Kochi. Delegations from Bangladesh and Seychelles participated as Observers.
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Indian Navy’s INS Satpura and P8i participate in the RIMPAC Harbour Phase

Indian Navy’s indigenous Frigate INS Satpura and P8I LRMRASW aircraft are at Pearl Harbour in Hawaii taking part in one of the largest multilateral Naval Exercises, the Rim of the Pacific exercise, also known as RIMPAC. INS Satpura and one P8I maritime patrol aircraft are participating in the exercise which spans over six weeks of intense operations and training aimed at enhancing interoperability and building trust among Navies of friendly foreign countries. 28 countries, 38 warships, 09 land forces, 31 unmanned systems, 170 aircraft and over 25,000 personnel are participating in the multi-dimensional exercise. The sea phase commences on 12 Jul 22 and will culminate with the closing ceremony on 04 Aug 22.
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Indian Air Force contingent participating in an exercise with the Egyptian Air Force (EAF) in Egypt

Indian Air Force contingent is reaching the midway point of the Tactical Leadership Programme (TLP) at Egyptian Air Force (EAF) Weapon School in Egypt (Cairo West Airbase). The programme commenced on 24 Jun and will culminate on 23 Jul 22. IAF is participating with three Su-30 MKI aircraft. Two C-17 aircraft were used for induction of the contingent. IAF Su-30 MKI aircraft undertook a non-stop ferry of six hours from Jamnagar airbase (India) to Cairo West airbase (Egypt), overflying four countries enroute. Tactical Leadership Program is a unique exercise, wherein IAF is participating with its aircrew as instructors. This exercise provides a good opportunity to showcase the reach and capability of the IAF. It will also assist in enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries and exchange of best practices.

During the first two weeks of the exercise IAF aircraft participated in missions by day and night, involving air to ground & air to air combat scenarios and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) activity alongside Egyptian F-16, Rafale and Mig 29 aircraft.
Reference: Click here to read…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence (Coe) launched by IAF

The IAF Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence under the aegis of UDAAN (Unit for Digitisation, Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Application Networking) was inaugurated by Air Marshal Sandeep Singh, Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS).

A Big Data Analytics and Al Platform has been commissioned in the IAF’s Al Centre, for handling all aspects of Analytics, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Neural Networks and Deep Learning algorithms. The high-end compute requirements would be undertaken by the latest Graphical Processing Unit powered servers.Addressing the gathering, VCAS said that IAF has taken proactive steps to embed Industry 4.0 and Al based technologies in its war fighting processes. He reiterated that the AI COE with high end compute and big data storage capabilities, coupled with full spectrum Al software suites, would substantially enhance operational capability of IAF.
For more information: Click here to read…

First-ever ‘AI in Defence’ symposium & exhibition in New Delhi

RakshaMantri launched 75 newly-developed Artificial Intelligence (AI) products/technologies during the first-ever ‘AI in Defence’ (AIDef) symposium and exhibition, organised by Ministry of Defence in New Delhi. The products, launched as part of ‘AzadiKaAmritMahotsav’ celebrations, fall under various domains. These includeAI Platform Automation; Autonomous/Unmanned/Robotics systems; Block Chain-based Automation; Command, Control, Communication, Computer & Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance; Cyber Security; Human Behavioural Analysis; Intelligent Monitoring Systems; Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems; Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Operational Data Analytics; Manufacturing and Maintenance; Simulators/Test Equipment and speech/voice analysis using Natural Language Processing.

The RakshaMantri added that several MoUs have been signed with the industry for faster promotion of AI applications in the Services. Many AI-related challenges under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiatives have also been given. The challenges are under various domains, including Radio Frequency Spectrum Management, Underwater Domain Awareness, Satellite Image Analysis and Friend or Foe Identification System. He urged the industry and start-ups to explore newer avenues and work hand-in-hand with the Government to ensure complete self-reliance in the field of AI technology.

Delivering the welcome address, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar lauded the proactive efforts of the three Services, DRDO, DPSUs & the Industry in developing these 75 products and contributing to strengthen national security. He added that over 100 more projects are in various levels of development.
For more information: Click here to read…

Brazilian Navy delegation on visit to India

A Brazilian Navy delegation led by Vice Admiral Liberal Enio Zanelatto, Director of Industrial Production & Engineering, visited New Delhi on 15 Jul 22 and held discussion with senior officers of the Indian Navy. The head of the Brazilian delegation also called on Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel, Indian Navy. Earlier, Brazilian delegation also visited Headquarters Western Naval Command and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd at Mumbai on 11 and 12 Jul 22 respectively.

Extensive discussions between Brazilian and Indian Navy leadership, on areas of mutual cooperation, with special focus on submarine maintenance, in addition as general maintenance philosophy, upgradation of weapons and sensors, and Indian Navy’s indigenisation efforts for achieving self-reliance.
Reference: Click here to read…

Ministry of Defence sets up an Apex Committee for Performance and Efficiency Audit

The Ministry of Defence has set up an institutional mechanism comprising of an Apex committee with Defence Secretary as Chairman to conduct a Performance and Efficiency Audit into various aspects of its activities. This kind of audit is expected to provide valuable inputs to the top management of the Ministry of specific shortcomings, if any, in planning and execution of projects, and suggest systemic improvements in internal controls, soundness of financial procedures, identification of risk factors, etc. It is a major shift from the existing transaction-based compliance audit to carry out an outcome-based Performance/ Efficiency Audit aimed at enhancing overall efficiency.The members of the committee include Vice Chiefs of the three Services, Secretary Defence (Finance), Chief of Integrated Staff Committee (CISC), Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), Director General (Acquisition) and other senior officials of Ministry of Defence and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The broad areas that have been identified for the conduct of Performance and Efficiency Audit include Defence Capital Procurements, provisioning, logistics, inventory levels, Maintenance of platforms/ assets, role and performance of Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) etc. the Apex committee can also recommend any other specific area for Performance and Efficiency Audit.

The committee chaired by Defence Secretary will identify specific areas for the conduct of performance and audit by CGDA and monitor performance audit reports and action taken thereon. It also shall advise Raksha Mantri on remedial measures to be adopted as well as measures for overall improvement in strengthening of internal oversight and Risk Management Framework.
Reference: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

“Hizbu’llah used Iranian drones against the Karish gas field”, claimed Israel’s Defence Minister.

In a briefing to military reporters, on 07 July 2022, Israel’s Defence Minister Benny Gantz confirmed the use of Iranian drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) against the Karish gas field. “It should be said that the attack was carried out by Hizbu’llah on behest of Iran, and its weapons are made in Iran, whether it is manufactured there or knowledge acquired by them.
On 02 July 2022, the Israel Defence Force (IDF) shot three UAVs by Hezbollah toward Karish rig, which is located within Israel’s economic waters but disputed by Lebanon.
For more information: Click here to read…

Africa

Nigeria

Islamist attack freed hundreds of prisoners in Nigeria

Suspected Islamists gunmen, armed with explosives, attacked on Kuje medium security prison, on the outskirts of Abuja and freed nearly 900 of prison’s 994 inmates, including number of terrorists. “They [gunmen] came in numbers, gained entrance into the prison, and released ‘some’ of the inmates,” said Nigeria’s Defence Minister— Bashir Magashi during a press briefing on 06 July 2022.

Prison breaks have become more common in Nigeria, where in 2021, more than 1,800 prisoners escaped from Owerri prison in South-Eastern Imo state, after heavily armed men attacked with explosives.
For more information: Click here to read…

Pakistan

Ahead of FATF’s visit, Pakistan doubled the efforts to ‘locate’ JeM chief Masood Azhar

Ahead of the visit of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) officials to assess Pakistan’s commitment to carried out task list actions, Pakistan has doubled its efforts against Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief and founder— Masood Azhar, and his brother Rauf Asghar. While Rauf Asghar was taken into custody along with 44 JeM terrorists in 2019, the establishment is assessing Masood Azhar’s whereabouts, including his doubtful presence in Pakistan.

From 28 August-02 September, a team of senior FATF officials expected to visit Islamabad and other cities for an ‘on-site visit’, to verify if Pakistan has carried out all the actions mentioned on its 34-point task list. Pakistan is expected to be taken-off of ‘grey list’, during the FATF’s next plenary session in October 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA searched multiple locations in Kashmir in “Sunjwan terrorist attack” case

On 13 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out a search operation at three locations in Kashmir— 01 location in Pulwama district, and 02 locations in Anantnag district, in the case (RC-03/2022/NIA/JMU) related to indiscriminate firing upon security personnel on 22 April 2022, during a joint search operation in the area of Sunjwan, Jammu, in which an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) attained Veergati(fell in the battle), and several others were injured.
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces eliminated two terrorists, including a JeM commander, in Pulwama

On 11 July 2022, security forces killed two terrorists, including a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) commander, in an operation in Wandakhpora village in Awantipora in Pulwama district. The JeM commander was identified as Kaiser Koka and was active in South Kashmir for the last four years.
For more information: Click here to read…

“In last four years, 700 local youths were recruited by terror groups in UT of J&K”: MHA

According to the data available with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), as on 05 July 2022, a total of 82 foreign terrorists were operating in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), while there were 59 local terrorists. In last four years, terrorist groups managed to recruit 700 local youths into their fold, while 141 terrorists, are currently active in the Valley. Such large number highlighted the unabated infiltration from terror launch pads across the border. Mostly, terrorists belong to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its offshoot— The Resistance Front (TRF), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM).
For more information: Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism

Police arrested a Maoist wanted in SP’s killing case, from Jharkhand

In a joint operation, Jharkhand Police and CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) arrested a Maoist— Nandlal Soren aka Hitesh, a member of the Special Area Committee of the CPI (Maoist), from Giridih district in Jharkhand. Nandlal Soren was carrying a bounty reward of ₹ 25 lakh.

Soren was wanted in the killing of then-Superintendent of Police (SP) Amarjeet Balihar, and other police personnel in an ambush in 2013.
For more information: Click here to read…

Over 600 explosives and 495 detonators recovered in anti-Maoist operation in Bihar

In an anti-Maoist operation carried out during 04-11 July 2022 in Bihar, more than 600 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and around 500 detonators have been recovered by CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), a special jungle-warfare commando unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The recoveries were made from the jungles of Gaya district in Bihar.
For more information: Click here to read…

50 IEDs seized from Aurangabad in Bihar

On 11 July 2022, the CRPF’s CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), the Special Task Force (STF), and the district police carried out a joint operation on Ajnawa mountain range in Aurangabad district and recovered 50 IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) and other equipment. Other equipment included over two dozen gelatin rods, electric wires, batteries, pipes used in manufacturing of bombs were recovered.
For more information: Click here to read…

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

NIA Special Court (Ernakulam) convicted three Islamic State members in “ISIS Valapattanam case”

On 12 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, Ernakulam convicted three Islamic State (IS) members— i) Midlaj, ii) Abdul Razak, and iii) Hamsa, for providing support and conspiring a plan to travel out of India to join the terrorist organisation in Syria.

After thorough investigation, the case— RC-02/2017/NIA/KOC was taken over by the NIA for further investigation by the NIA on 16 December 2017. A chargesheet was filed by the NIA on 21 April 2018 against the IS members.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA searched multiple locations in Rajasthan in “Udaipur killing” case

On 12 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched nine locations in Udaipur district in Rajasthan in “Udaipur killing case”. The case— RC-27/2022/NIA/DLI pertains to the killing of Shri Kanahiya Lal Teli in Udaipur, Rajasthan, by two Islamic extremists armed with sharp weapons at his shop located in Maaldas street, Udaipur, Rajasthan. On 29 June 2022, the NIA re-registered the case and taken over the investigation. During the search at the premises of both Islamic extremists, digital devices, including mobile phones, laptop and SIM cards, and other indiscriminating material was seized.
Earlier, on 09 July 2022, the NIA arrested Farhad Mohammad Sheikh aka Babla, in relation to Shri Kanahiya Lal Teli’s murder conspiracy. Farhad Mohammad was a close associate of one of the main perpetrator— RiyazAttari.
For more information: Click here to read… ; Click here to read…

NIA conducted search at multiple locations in Maharashtra in “Umesh Kolhe’s killing” case

On 06 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 13 locations in Amravati district in Maharashtra in the case of killing of Shri Umesh Kolhe in Amravati on 21 June 2022.

The case— RC-02/2022/NIA/MUM relates to the killing of a pharmacist— Shri Umesh Kolhe allegedly on account of certain social media posts. The NIA re-registered the case on 02 July 2022 and taken over the investigation. During the search, the officials recovered digital devices, including mobile phones, SIM cards, memory cards, and DVRs), pamphlets spreading hate messages, knives, and other incriminating documents and materials.
For more information: Click here to read…

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

NIA filed chargesheet against four KTF associates accused of conspiring the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar

On 04 July 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet at the NIA Special Court (Mohali) against four Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) associates— i) Kamaljeet Sharma, ii) Arshdeep Singh, iii) Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and iv) Ram Singh, for conspiring the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar, Punjab.
The case— RC-27/2021/NIA/DLI pertains to an attack on a Hindu priest— Kamaldeep Sharma, native of Bhar Singh Pura village in Phillaur, Jalandhar district. According to the investigation, the conspiracy was hatched by Arshdeep Singh and Harshdeep Singh Nijjar, both based in Canada, to disturb peace and communal harmony in Punjab by killing a Hindu priest. The arrested duo, Kamaljeet Sharma and Ram Singh, had shot the victim (Kamaldeep Sharma), on behest of Arshdeep Singh.
For more information: Click here to read…

MEA raised concerns over the participation of Australian Sikh soldiers at pro-Khalistan event in New South Wales, Australia

As the reports about Australian Army Sikh delegation’s participation in pro-Khalistan event in New South Wales, Australia, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on 07 July 2022, has taken up the concern over the matter with the Australian government.

“We came to know that there had been an instance in Australia. We have taken up the matter with the Australian government,” said MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.
For more information: Click here to read…

Pro-Khalistan elements vandalized Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Canada

On 13 July 2022, allegedly pro-Khalistan supporters vandalised the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Vishnu temple in Toronto, Canada. The statue had existed at the Vishnu temple in the area of Yonge Street and Garden Avenue for over three decades.
“We are deeply anguished by this hate crime that seeks to terrorise the Indian community. It has led to increased concern and insecurity in the Indian community here. We have approached the Canadian government to investigate and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly,” observations made by the High Commission of India in Ottawa.
For more information: Click here to read…

Police arrested a pro-Khalistan supporter from Jalandhar

On the intervening night of 14-15 June 2022, police arrested Manjeet Singh, resident of Patiala, for reportedly writing pro-Khalistan slogans on the walls in Jalandhar. According to police, similar cases had been registered against Manjeet in Karnal, and other districts in Punjab. During the probe, Manjeet revealed that an unknown person approached him through social media and offered money for writing pro-Khalistan comments on Facebook (now Meta), YouTube and other channels.
For more information: Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, July 19, 2022

July 19, 2022 vd@admin

Chinese vice premier stresses innovation-driven development of Xinjiang: Xinhuanet

July 18, 2022

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He on Monday called for efforts to boost industrial vitalization and innovation-driven development in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Click here to read…

Top political advisor calls for greeting 20th CPC national congress with steady progress: Xinhuanet

July 18, 2022

China’s top political advisor Wang Yang on Monday called for steady progress to greet the convocation of the 20th national congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) later this year. Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), urged steady progress in improving the quality and efficiency of the CPPCC’s work in the second half of the year. Click here to read…

Beijing issues coupons to boost catering consumption: Xinhuanet

July 18, 2022

Beijing began issuing coupons worth a total of 100 million yuan (14.82 million U.S. dollars) on Monday to spur catering consumption, according to the municipal commerce bureau. Funded by the government and platform enterprises that provide catering services, the promotional campaign is expected to cover more than 70,000 restaurants, the bureau said. Click here to read…

China reaffirms determination to wipe out mafia gangsters, protectors: Global Times

July 18, 2022

China will wipe out all gang-related crime, reaffirmed the top prosecutor on Monday, saying that China has indicted 230,000 people who were engaged in mafia-like gangs and other crimes, and 2,987 people who acted as their protectors, in the three-year national crackdown on gang crimes from 2018 to 2021. Click here to read…

Huawei to launch HarmonyOS 3.0 soon, to shake off US export ban: Global Times

July 18, 2022

Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei is set to launch an updated version of its self-developed operating system (OS), the HarmonyOS 3.0, on Saturday, putting the firm on the fast track to shake off reliance on Google’s Android, while also paving the way for it to recover from a hobbled handset business amid years of the US’ ruthless sanctions. Click here to read…

Wristbands, big data used to monitor people who commit ‘less serious’ crimes in China: South China Morning Post

July 18, 2022

Chinese prosecutors say they have been using electronic wristbands and big data to monitor people who have committed offences that are not serious enough to warrant arrest. It is part of a move to make fewer arrests and be more cautious about prosecutions under a new criminal justice policy, prosecutors told reporters in Beijing on Monday during a review of progress over the past decade. Click here to read…

Afghan minister holds talks with Chinese mining firm, progress to be expected: Global Times

July 18, 2022

An Afghan government official from the mining sector met with the representative of a Chinese mining company Sunday, and they discussed issues ranging from technical to financial operations of the Aynak copper project, the second-largest copper ore body in the world. But an insider said that no substantive progress was made. Click here to read…

EU, China to hold trade dialogue amid simmering tensions: Reuters

July 19, 2022

The European Union and China will hold a high-level economic and trade dialogue on Tuesday amidst tensions over a number of issues including the war in Ukraine, Xinjiang and an as yet unratified investment agreement. Click here to read…

Japan, China cut holdings of U.S. Treasuries to multi-year lows –data: Reuters

July 19, 2022

Japan and China pared back holdings of U.S. Treasuries in May to multi-year lows, data from the U.S. Treasury department showed on Monday. Japan’s holdings fell to $1.212 trillion, the lowest since January 2020, when the country’s stash of Treasuries was $1.211 trillion. In April, Japan’s holdings were at $1.218 trillion. China’s hoard of U.S. government debt dropped as well to $980.8 billion in May, still the lowest since May 2010 when its holdings were at $843.7 billion, data showed. In April, China had $1.003 trillion in Treasuries. Click here to read…

China’s military puts advanced rocket launch system to the test at high altitude: South China Morning Post

July 19, 2022

China’s military has put the precision strike capability of its new rocket launch system to the test at high altitude, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The People’s Liberation Army used the PCL191 multiple launch rocket system – which is mounted on a truck – to hit a target several kilometres away at a desert shooting range in the west of China during a recent test, Sunday’s report said. Click here to read…

Shanghai enforces new virus testing: Taipei Times

July 19, 2022

Several large Chinese cities, including Shanghai, are on alert due to new clusters of COVID-19 infections, rolling out repeated mass testing or extending lockdowns on millions of residents, with some measures triggering a public outcry. China has reported an average of about 390 local daily infections in the seven days ending on Sunday, higher than about 340 seven days earlier, according to Reuters calculations based on official data as of yesterday. That is tiny compared with a resurgence in other parts of Asia. Click here to read…

China refutes U.S. report on Xinjiang-related issues: Xinhuanet

July 19, 2022

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday that the issues related to Xinjiang are not about human rights, ethnicity or religion, but about fighting terrorism and separatism, and the Chinese government’s counterterrorism and deradicalization measures have substantially turned the security situation around in Xinjiang. Click here to read…

China, Vietnam agree to strengthen inter-party exchanges: Xinhuanet

July 19, 2022

Chen Xi, a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), held talks with Truong Thi Mai, head of the Organization Commission of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), via video link on Monday. Click here to read…

Researchers propose new AI model to better understand human expectations: Xinhuanet

July 19, 2022

A research team has proposed an artificial intelligence (AI) system in which robots not only serve as listeners but also speakers, providing an opportunity for AI to better understand human expectations. Click here to read…

Eight injured in apartment building gas explosion in north China’s Tianjin: Xinhuanet

July 19, 2022

Eight people were injured after a gas explosion in a residential building in Beichen District, north China’s Tianjin Municipality Tuesday morning. The explosion, which took place at around 7:15 a.m. and damaged the six-story building, has not led to life-threathening injuries, according to local authorities. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 199 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

July 19, 2022

The Chinese mainland Monday reported 199 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 134 in Guangxi and 32 in Gansu, the National Health Commission said Tuesday. Altogether 500 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified in 14 provincial-level regions on Monday. Click here to read…

Judicial system tightened to better protect minors: China Daily

July 19, 2022

Comprehensive judicial protection for minors is being improved, with some 2,900 people with criminal records and engaged in industries that have close contact with minors removed from their posts since 2020, senior prosecutors said on Monday. Click here to read…

Number of legal disputes rises: China Daily

July 19, 2022

The number of civil disputes related to bride prices surged from dozens in 2009 to tens of thousands at the peak in 2016, before leveling off in the thousands, according to China Judgments Online, an official government database that reports court decisions from across the country. Click here to read…

China, India agree at latest commander-level meeting to work out mutually acceptable resolution of remaining border issues at the earliest: Global Times

July 19, 2022

The resolution of the remaining issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) can help in the restoration of peace and tranquility of the region and enable progress in bilateral relations, China and India reaffirmed after a commander level meeting on Sunday, called by both as “frank and in-depth.” Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, June 23, 2022

June 23, 2022 vd@admin

China’s top political advisor calls for fostering green, low carbon development: Xinhuanet

June 22, 2022

China’s top political advisor Wang Yang has called for efforts to foster high-quality growth that embodies green and low-carbon development. Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), chaired the closing meeting of the 22nd session of the Standing Committee of the 13th CPPCC National Committee and delivered a speech on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Full Text: Chinese President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum: Xinhuanet

June 22, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony of the BRICS Business Forum in virtual format and delivered a keynote speech titled “Keep Abreast of the Trend of the Times to Shape a Bright Future” on Wednesday. Click here to read…

China’s central SOEs up investment in new infrastructure: Xinhuanet

June 22, 2022

China’s centrally administered state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are ramping up investment in new types of infrastructure to facilitate industrial transformation, data from the country’s top state-asset regulator showed. Click here to read…

Jing Junhai elected Party chief of China’s Jilin: Xinhuanet

June 22, 2022

Jing Junhai has been elected secretary of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Jing was elected to the post at the first plenary session of the 12th CPC Jilin Provincial Committee on Wednesday. Click here to read…

China, ASEAN vow to strengthen defense, security cooperation: China Military

June 22, 2022

The 13th China-ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Informal Meeting was held via video link on Wednesday. The meeting was co-chaired by Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe and General Tea Banh, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of Combodia, the rotating chair of ASEAN. Click here to read…

Plan promotes cultural digitalization: China Daily

June 23, 2022

The digital revolution has fundamentally altered the way in which culture and cultural services are produced, distributed and accessed. With its wealth of cultural resources, China is set to embrace this revolution with a grand plan: the digitization of culture. Click here to read…

China bans 31 misbehaviors by livestreamers in latest effort to clean up cyberspace: Global Times

June 22, 2022

China’s top media and culture authorities on Wednesday jointly issued behavior norms to guide livestreamers, prohibiting 31 kinds of misbehavior including smearing Chinese culture, historic figures and national heroes, and hyping sensitive issues, in a move to promote a healthy cyberspace amid public calls for more regulation due to wrongdoings in the booming industry. Click here to read…

2022 marks ‘year of launch’ for BRICS remote satellite network: Global Times

June 22, 2022

As the 14th BRICS Summit kicks off, China National Space Administration (CNSA) revealed to the Global Times the latest development and more details on cooperation in joint observation and data sharing of the remote sensing satellites among the five major emerging economies -Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Click here to read…

Two Chinese rights lawyers face trial for state subversion: Reuters

June 22, 2022

Two prominent Chinese rights lawyers are set to go on trial behind closed doors this week on charges of state subversion, campaign groups said, part of a clampdown on dissent and rights activism under President Xi Jinping. Hearings for Xu Zhiyong and Ding Jiaxi were scheduled in Linshu county court in the northeastern province of Shandong on Wednesday and Friday, respectively, relatives and friends told Reuters. Click here to read…

USTR Tai calls U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods ‘significant’ leverage: Reuters

June 22, 2022

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai on Wednesday said that she views tariffs on Chinese goods as “a significant piece of leverage” in the U.S.-China trade relationship and removing them would likely have a limited effect on controlling short-term inflation. Click here to read…

Border issues with India should be resolved through dialogue: Reuters

June 22, 2022

China and India should resolve their border issues through dialogue and consultation as the two countries’ common interests outweigh their differences, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Wednesday. Wang spoke during a meeting with Pradeep Kumar Rawat, India’s new ambassador to China, according to a statement issued by China’s foreign ministry. Click here to read…

China’s electricity demand soars as heatwaves bake northern, central provinces: South China Morning Post

June 22, 2022

Heatwaves in northern and central China drove up electricity demand to record levels as millions switched on air conditioners to escape the sweltering conditions, while floodwaters in the south submerged villages and trapped city residents. On Wednesday, China’s meteorological administration issued orange alert warnings for high temperatures in regions across the provinces of Shandong, Henan and Hebei. Several cities in Shandong, China’s second-most populous province, have issued “red alert” high temperature warnings, which have pushed up demand for air conditioning among the region’s more than 100 million people. Click here to read…

G-7, NATO leaders to highlight China challenge, pressure Russia: Kyodo

June 23, 2022

The Group of Seven industrialized nations are expected to step up efforts to address China’s “coercive economic practices” when their leaders meet in Germany later in June, while increasing pressure on Russia to end the war in Ukraine, U.S. officials said Wednesday. Click here to read…

Beijing children must take COVID-19 tests to play in the park: Taipei Times

June 23, 2022

Beijing is tightening its hardline “zero COVID” rules, mandating that children show a negative test result to enter parks in China’s capital. Children older than three will need to show a green health code on the system that controls people’s movements, as well as a negative COVID-19 result no older than 72 hours, a statement from the Beijing Municipal Administration Center of Parks said. Click here to read…

7 injured of Tianjin gas explosion discharged from hospital; 9 held accountable under custody: Global Times

June 23, 2022

Seven people who were injured in the gas explosion in Baodi, North China’s Tianjin Municipality on Tuesday afternoon have been discharged from the hospital,while nine individuals responsible for the accident are under custody, the local authorities announced on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Culprits punished in Henan health code scandal: China Daily

June 23, 2022

Five people, including four officials, in Henan province have been punished after they were found to have abused their power to turn people’s health codes red for non-epidemic reasons, according to an investigation report on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Supercomputer, AI to speed up drug discoveries: China Daily

June 23, 2022

Using artificial intelligence and one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, Chinese scientists are engineering otherwise unknown chemicals designed for future clinical use. The Tianhe-2 supercomputer, located in the National Supercomputer Center in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, ranked as the world’s fastest supercomputer in June 2013, holding the top spot for three years and today still ranks among the world’s top 10. Click here to read…

China’s largest social media platform pledges crackdown on rumors: Global Times

June 23, 2022

WeChat, one of China’s most popular social media platforms, announced on Wednesday that it will launch a crackdown on accounts and content that create or spread online rumors and false information related to hot social security issues. Click here to read…

Xi stresses need to build basic data systems, enhance administrative division management: Xinhuanet

June 23, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged efforts to accelerate the construction of basic systems for data and improve work on administrative divisions. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks while chairing the 26th meeting of the central commission for deepening overall reform. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 13 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

June 23, 2022

The Chinese mainland Wednesday reported 13 locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, including nine in Shanghai, three in Beijing, and one in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the National Health Commission said Thursday. Click here to read…

China Digest

China: Daily Scan, March 10, 2022

March 10, 2022 vd@admin

China’s top political advisory body wraps up annual session: Xinhuanet

March 9, 2022

The fifth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China’s top political advisory body, held its closing meeting on Thursday. Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders attended the closing meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Click here to read more…

Chinese military spokesperson vows zero tolerance for “Taiwan independence” separatist acts: Xinhuanet

March 10, 2022

The Chinese military will never tolerate “Taiwan independence” separatist acts and the interference of external forces, a spokesperson has said. Relevant exercises and training activities of the People’s Liberation Army are by no means targeted at Taiwan compatriots, but “Taiwan independence” separatist activities and the interference of external forces, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for the delegation of the People’s Liberation Army and People’s Armed Police Force attending the fifth session of the 13th National People’s Congress, on Wednesday. Click here to read more…

Chinese lawmakers raise 487 proposals to annual legislative session: Xinhuanet

March 9, 2022

Deputies to the 13th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s national legislature, had submitted 487 proposals as of noon Tuesday, the deadline for proposal submissions at the ongoing fifth session of the 13th NPC, said the secretariat of the session. Click here to read more…

NPC Constitution, Law Committee deliberates draft amendment to law on local legislatures, governments: Xinhuanet

March 9, 2022

The Constitution and Law Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) on Monday deliberated a draft amendment to the Organic Law of the Local People’s Congresses and Local People’s Governments. Click here to read more…

Chinese PLA cooperates with militaries of over 50 countries in COVID-19 fight: spokesperson: Xinhuanet

March 10, 2022

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has played an active role in the global fight against COVID-19 while fully supporting domestic epidemic containment, a military spokesperson said Wednesday. Click here to read more…

Saudi, Chinese firms sign deal on space technologies, satellites, AI cooperation: Xinhuanet

March 10, 2022

Three tech firms from Saudi Arabia and China on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of innovative space technologies, satellites, artificial intelligence (AI) and geospatial products. Click here to read more…

Chinese manufacturer unveils new generation of commercial maglev train: Xinhuanet

March 10, 2022

Chinese manufacturer CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co., Ltd. said Thursday that tests have been completed for its next generation of commercial maglev train. The train, with a designed speed of 200 km per hour, has achieved multiple tech breakthroughs such as unmanned driving and non-contact power supply, said Zhang Wenyue, deputy head of CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive’s maglev research institute. Click here to read more…

China, India to hold 15th Round of China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting: China Military

March 10, 2022

As agreed by both sides, the Chinese and Indian militaries will hold the 15th round of China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting on March 11, said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian at a daily press briefing on March 9. Click here to read more…

Blacklist’ targeting bribers to be unveiled: China Daily

March 10, 2022

Chinese courts will more strictly punish bribe-givers together with those who accept bribes, and set up a “blacklist” for those who offer bribes, a senior official of China’s top court said. Click here to read more…

Stable job market a priority: China Daily

March 9, 2022

The central government will do its utmost to stabilize the job market this year by continuing the employment-first policy, strengthening assistance to market entities and eliminating improper restrictions in the operation of the job market. Click here to read more…

Research seeks new techniques for aviation: China Daily

March 10, 2022

Researchers and engineers in China’s aviation industry are striving to develop new materials and manufacturing techniques to build the country’s next-generation aircraft, according to a senior researcher at Aviation Industry Corp of China, a State-owned aircraft giant. Click here to read more…

Advisors mustn’t be ambiguous in political stance, deviate from right direction, says CPPCC chief: Global Times

March 10, 2022

Wang Yang, chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, urged all political advisors to deepen understanding of the achievements of the times, enhance political understanding of the theories of the Communist Party of China, and shoulder the responsibility of uniting wisdom and strength of all Chinese, including those residing overseas, at the closing meeting of the fifth session of the 13th National Committee of the CPPCC on Thursday. Click here to read more…

Some 50 foreign students evacuated with the Chinese convoy from Sumy, says Chinese Embassy in Ukraine: Global Times

March 9, 2022

About 50 foreign students from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and other countries were evacuated with China’s convoy from northeastern Ukraine’s Sumy on Tuesday, as the last group of 115 Chinese students who had been stranded in the region were moved to safe areas by bus, the Chinese Embassy in Ukraine told the Global Times on Wednesday. Click here to read more…

China welcomes UN human rights chief’s visit to Xinjiang but rejects political tactics says FM: Global Times

March 9, 2022

China welcomes UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet’s visit to China and her planned trip to the country’s northwestern Xinjiang region, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday, reiterating China’s consistent stance on opposing certain countries’ use of this event for political manipulation. Click here to read more…

China sends first batch of humanitarian aid to Ukraine: Global Times

March 9, 2022

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the Red Cross Society of China had sent a batch of emergency humanitarian aid, including food and daily necessities, to Ukraine at its request. Click here to read more…