Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, currently on the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission, had a telephone conversation with ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan and other senior officials. The ISRO Chairman inquired about Shukla's well-being and the scientific experiments being conducted. He emphasized the importance of meticulously documenting all experiments and activities for valuable insights into India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. Shukla's ISS mission is executed under the ISRO-Axiom Spaceflight agreement. The Gaganyaan programme aims to demonstrate India's capability to launch a crewed spacecraft into low earth orbit, and the experience gained from this mission is crucial for its success. Shukla expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ISRO team.
- Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, on the ISS via the Axiom-4 mission, conversed with ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan and other officials.
- The discussion focused on Shukla's well-being and the scientific experiments being conducted on the ISS.
- Documentation of experiments is crucial for India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India, during its BRICS presidency in 2026, will work to give the grouping a "new form," emphasizing "Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability." He stated that India would take the forum forward in the spirit of "people-centricity and humanity first," mirroring its approach during the G-20 chairmanship where Global South issues were prioritized. Modi highlighted the need for global cooperation to combat common threats, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an example where solutions require joint efforts. He also shared India's position on Artificial Intelligence governance, advocating for equal priority to addressing concerns and encouraging innovation. Modi held bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit, discussing trade linkages, digital technology, critical minerals, healthcare, and space.
- India will assume the BRICS presidency in 2026 and aims to redefine the grouping with a focus on "Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability."
- The Indian approach will prioritize "people-centricity and humanity first," similar to its G-20 chairmanship.
- PM Modi stressed the importance of global cooperation to address common threats, drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kerala has recently detected two Nipah virus cases, including one fatality, highlighting the urgent need for a robust "One Health" programme. Nipah is a highly transmissible viral infection with a mortality rate of 40-75%, making prevention and awareness crucial as there is no effective treatment. Fruit bats are the natural reservoirs, and contaminated fruits are suspected to spread the virus. The article stresses the importance of monitoring climate change-related factors and anthropogenic activities that destroy natural habitats, as these contribute to zoonotic spillover. India has experienced several Nipah outbreaks since 2001, with Kerala regularly reporting cases. A comprehensive One Health approach is needed to address Nipah and other pathogens capable of transitioning from animals to humans.
- Recent Nipah virus cases in Kerala underscore the critical need for a "One Health" programme to prevent zoonotic spillover.
- Nipah virus is a highly transmissible infection with a high mortality rate (40-75%), emphasizing prevention as the primary course of action.
- Fruit bats are natural reservoirs for Nipah, with transmission often linked to consuming contaminated fruits.
The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study for the ₹72,000-crore Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project (GNIP) downplays the risk of future mega-earthquakes and tsunamis, stating the probability is "low." This contradicts some scientists who point to uncertainties in earthquake prediction and insufficient site-specific studies in the highly geo-dynamic Andaman-Sumatra fault line region. While the EIA cites a 2019 IIT-Kanpur study on return periods for mega-earthquakes (420-750 years), it omits the study's caveat about uncertainty due to a 2,000-year gap in sediment history. Experts like C.P. Rajendran emphasize the non-linear nature of earthquake recurrence and the presence of unknown parallel rupture lines, urging site-specific analysis for vulnerable infrastructure projects like the proposed transshipment port and international airport.
- The EIA for the Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project (GNIP) assesses the probability of mega-earthquakes and tsunamis as "low," despite the region's high seismic activity.
- Scientists express concern over the EIA's downplaying of risks, citing uncertainties in earthquake prediction and insufficient site-specific studies.
- The EIA selectively uses findings from an IIT-Kanpur study, omitting caveats about the unpredictability of future earthquakes.
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) a five-year license to operate two indigenously developed 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat. This decision follows rigorous multi-tiered safety reviews of the reactor design and commissioning results, a process that spanned almost 15 years. KAPS-3 received full power operation permission in August 2023, and KAPS-4 in August 2024. The issuance of this license is a significant boost for NPCIL's efforts to build 10 more 700 MWe PHWRs in fleet mode across the country, reinforcing India's self-reliance in nuclear technology.
- AERB has licensed NPCIL to operate two indigenously developed 700 MWe PHWRs at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat.
- The licensing process involved rigorous multi-tiered safety reviews of the reactor design and commissioning, taking nearly 15 years.
- KAPS-3 and KAPS-4 received permission for full power operation in August 2023 and August 2024, respectively.
New archaeological and DNA evidence from Neolithic cemeteries in China, particularly from the Yangshao culture (616-200 BC), suggests the existence of a matrilineal society. Researchers analyzed mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome data from burials, revealing that individuals buried together were often related through the maternal line. This finding challenges previous assumptions about patriarchal structures in early Chinese societies and offers insights into ancient social organization and kinship patterns.
- Evidence from Neolithic cemeteries in China suggests a matrilineal society.
- Mitochondrial DNA analysis indicates maternal lineage among buried individuals.
- The findings challenge previous assumptions of patriarchal societies in early China.
The Nipah virus has resurfaced in Kerala, with two confirmed cases causing fresh alarm. An 18-year-old girl succumbed to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) in Kozhikode, and a 38-year-old woman from Palakkad tested positive and is undergoing treatment. The National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, confirmed the infection. Following these cases, 345 people have been identified as contacts and quarantined across Malappuram, Palakkad, and Kozhikode districts. The Health department has initiated control measures and released a route map for the Nipah-positive person in Palakkad, putting the affected districts on high alert.
- Nipah virus has re-emerged in Kerala, leading to one death and one active case.
- The National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, confirmed the Nipah infection.
- Health authorities have quarantined 345 contacts and implemented control measures.
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has launched the BHARAT study ('Biomarkers of Healthy Aging, Resilience, Adversity, and Transitions') to establish India-specific healthy ageing parameters. This initiative aims to map physiological, molecular, and environmental indicators of ageing in the Indian population, addressing the current reliance on Western data which may not be optimal for Indians. The study will create a comprehensive database including genomic, proteomic, metabolic, and environmental biomarkers. Utilizing AI and machine learning, BHARAT seeks to identify early warning signs of age-related changes, enabling proactive interventions and improving the quality of lawmaking and healthcare for India's diverse population.
- The BHARAT study by IISc aims to establish India-specific biomarkers and parameters for healthy ageing.
- It seeks to address the inadequacy of Western-centric ageing data for India's diverse population.
- The study will create a comprehensive database of genomic, proteomic, metabolic, and environmental indicators.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that the Axiom-4 (Ax-04) mission to the International Space Station (ISS), involving Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, will provide valuable inputs for India's upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. This mission offers hands-on experience in international crew integration, medical and psychological preparation, real-time health telemetry, experiment execution, and crew-ground coordination. These insights will directly influence Gaganyaan's mission planning, safety validation, and astronaut readiness. ISRO is also preparing for abort missions and targets the first uncrewed test flight for Q4 2025, with the first crewed flight expected by Q1 2027. Shukla will carry Indian handicrafts to the ISS as a tribute to India's cultural heritage.
- The Axiom-4 mission to the ISS will provide critical experience and data for India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.
- The mission offers hands-on learning in crew integration, medical preparation, and real-time coordination.
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will carry Indian handicrafts to the ISS, symbolizing India's cultural heritage.
The Union Health Ministry has declared that there is no direct link between COVID-19 vaccination and reports of sudden deaths in India, based on comprehensive investigations by multiple agencies. Studies conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) found no major changes in death patterns compared to previous years, with genetic mutations identified as a likely contributing factor in unexplained cases. Myocardial infarction remains a leading cause of sudden death in young adults. The Ministry emphasized that sudden cardiac deaths result from various factors like genetics, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, and post-COVID complications, cautioning against speculative claims linking vaccines to sudden deaths.
- The Union Health Ministry, based on ICMR and NCDC investigations, found no direct link between COVID-19 vaccination and sudden deaths.
- Studies indicate that genetic mutations are a likely contributing factor in unexplained sudden deaths, and myocardial infarction remains a leading cause.
- Sudden cardiac deaths are attributed to a range of factors including genetics, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, and post-COVID complications.
India aims to be a global leader in AI governance, championing an inclusive and human-centric approach. However, this aspiration is undermined by the absence of a comprehensive, democratically anchored national AI strategy, with current initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission being insufficient. Unresolved questions about national priorities, governance values, and institutional structure pose risks of strategic dependencies and lack of democratic legitimacy. The author highlights critical risks in defense, critical infrastructure, employment disruption (e.g., 65,000 job cuts by top IT firms in 2024), and significant energy implications. A national strategy, developed through open public deliberation and parliamentary oversight, is crucial for harnessing AI for national leadership and public good.
- India's ambition to lead in AI governance is hampered by the lack of a comprehensive, democratically anchored national AI strategy.
- Current initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission are insufficient without clear national priorities and governance frameworks.
- Risks include strategic dependencies on foreign technologies, job displacement due to automation, and significant energy demands of AI.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched RailOne, a new all-in-one app developed by CRIS (Centre for Railway Information Systems), a PSU under the Railways. The app aims to improve the passenger interface by integrating various services like live train tracking, grievance redressal, e-catering, porter booking, and last-mile taxi services. It offers a 3% discount on unreserved and platform tickets and supports single sign-on with mPIN or biometrics. While reserved tickets will still be offered on IRCTC, RailOne is designed to streamline daily train travel, save device space by consolidating multiple apps, and enhance the overall digital experience for passengers.
- The Indian Railways has launched the RailOne app to provide an integrated platform for various passenger services.
- Developed by CRIS, the app aims to simplify ticket booking, live train tracking, and access to other travel-related amenities.
- It offers a 3% discount on unreserved and platform tickets, encouraging digital adoption for daily commuters.
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Tamal (F71), a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, in Kaliningrad, Russia. This commissioning is significant as Tamal is the last foreign-built major warship to be inducted into the Indian Navy, aligning with the government's "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" and "Make in India" initiatives focused on indigenisation. Tamal is the eighth ship in the Project 1135.6 series (Talwar class) and the second of the follow-on Tushil-class frigates. It symbolizes the deep Indo-Russian defence partnership, being the 51st ship produced under this collaboration over 65 years, and is equipped with dual-role BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
- INS Tamal, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, has been commissioned in Russia.
- It marks a pivotal moment as the last foreign-built major warship to be inducted by the Indian Navy, emphasizing a shift towards indigenisation.
- The commissioning highlights the long-standing and deep Indo-Russian strategic defence partnership.
The Indian Navy has inducted INS Udaygiri, the second stealth frigate of Project 17A, delivered in a record 37 months. This induction showcases India's growing military manufacturing capabilities and enhances its naval power. Project 17A frigates are successors to the Shivalik-class (Project 17) frigates and are being built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers. INS Udaygiri, a modern avatar of its predecessor, is equipped with enhanced stealth features and an advanced weapon and sensor suite, representing a significant leap in the Indian Navy's in-house design capabilities for blue-water operations.
- INS Udaygiri, the second Project 17A stealth frigate, has been delivered to the Indian Navy in record time.
- This induction signifies a major advancement in India's indigenous military manufacturing and naval design capabilities.
- Project 17A frigates are designed for blue-water operations, capable of handling conventional and non-conventional threats.
Over the past decade, the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) has leveraged technology to democratize access to rights, services, protection, and opportunities for women and children. Initiatives like Saksham Anganwadi, Poshan Tracker, SHe-Box portal, Mission Shakti dashboard, and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) have integrated digital tools for efficient service delivery, real-time monitoring, and transparency. These efforts have yielded tangible outcomes, including an improved Sex Ratio at Birth and a decline in Maternal Mortality Rate, showcasing how governance combined with technology can achieve social transformation and empower vulnerable populations.
- The MoWCD has significantly integrated technology into its programs to enhance access to services for women and children.
- Initiatives like Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan Tracker ensure efficient delivery of nutrition, healthcare, and education services at the last mile.
- Technology-led platforms such as SHe-Box and Mission Shakti provide safety and support, enabling online redressal and integrated assistance for women in distress.
Following insights from 'Operation Sindoor' regarding the need for enhanced precision surveillance, the Union government has fast-tracked the launch of 52 dedicated surveillance satellites. These satellites aim to provide round-the-clock monitoring of coastlines and land borders, with a particular focus on the Pakistan and China borders and the Indian Ocean Region. Under the SBS-III programme, ISRO will manufacture and launch the first 21 satellites, while private companies will handle the remaining 31. The new satellites will integrate artificial intelligence (AI) for smarter decision-making and improved performance, with the first set expected to be launched by 2026, enhancing India's self-reliance in surveillance.
- India is accelerating the launch of 52 dedicated surveillance satellites to bolster precision monitoring of its borders and coastlines.
- This initiative stems from the lessons learned during 'Operation Sindoor', which highlighted critical surveillance needs.
- The SBS-III programme involves ISRO launching 21 satellites and private companies launching the remaining 31.