Science and Technology (S&T) Digest (16-31 July 2024), Issue 42

Dr Saroj Bishoyi, Research Fellow, VIF

August 14 , 2024 Views: 319 Comments: 0

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

Sudarshan S-400 'Shot Down' Almost Entire 'Enemy' Package in Exercise

The S-400 weapon system, Sudarshan S-400 air defence missile system achieved a major success in a recent exercise where it 'shot down' 80 per cent of the 'enemy' fighter aircraft package while forcing others to retreat, aborting their missions. The exercise was carried out by the Indian Air Force in a theatre where the force has deployed one of its squadrons of the long-range air defence missile system, defence sources told ANI. The exercise was conducted by the Indian Air Force to showcase full integration of air defence missile system into the force, they said. Click here to read...

India Tests Missile Shield against 5,000 km Class Ballistic Missiles

India successfully flight-tested the Phase-II of the Ballistic Missile Defence System on 24 July 2024. Under the test done by the DRDO, the Target Missile was launched from LC-IV Dhamra at 16:20 hours, mimicking adversary Ballistic Missile, which was detected by weapon system radars deployed on land and sea and activated the AD Interceptor system. The Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile was launched from LC-III at ITR, Chandipur, at 16:24 hours, the DRDO said in a statement. The test has demonstrated the nation's indigenous capability to defend against the Ballistic Missiles of the 5000 km class. Click here to read...

DRDO's Advanced Tech Collaborations in AI, Robotics, and Cybersecurity

Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth visited the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Bhawan in New Delhi, where he was informed about DRDO's collaborations with the private sector, MSMEs, and academia, with a focus on sectors like artificial intelligence, robotics, and cyber security. Seth was also apprised about the DRDO-developed cutting-edge state-of-the-art technologies and systems being used by the Armed Forces and those under development. Meanwhile, the DRDO has awarded seven new projects to industries under the Technology Development Fund scheme for various requirements of the Armed Forces and aerospace and defence sectors. Click here to read...

DAC Clears Various Capital Acquisition Proposals

A meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, took place in which various capital acquisition proposals were considered. According to the Ministry of Defence, Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded to the procurement of an Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) for Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) of the Indian Army. The system is spoof-proof with high levels of encryption. The ALNS Mk-II is compatible with Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System, using Indian Constellation (IRNSS, NavlC), India in addition to Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). Click here to read...

MoU Signed to Facilitate Fund Access to Defence Sector MSMEs

The Ministry of Defence and National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate capital market access to the MSMEs. The MoU intends to facilitate MSMEs in the defence sector to raise productive capital for their growth plan in an efficient and transparent manner through NSE platform 'NSE Emerge', which offers new and viable options for raising equity capital from investors. This will help MSMEs and emerging companies in defence sector to scaleup their business operations, explore new markets and fund their R&D activities. Click here to read...

II. STI in Space Sector

A Venture Capital Fund of ₹ 1,000 Crore to Expand the Space Economy

The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has announced several measures to step up adoption of technology towards digitalization of the economy. While presenting the Union Budget 2024-2025 in the Parliament on 23 July 2024, the Union Minister said that the country has successfully used technology for improving productivity and bridging inequality in the economy during past 10 years. The Finance Minister also said that with continued emphasis on expanding the space economy by 5 times in the next 10 years, a venture capital fund of Rs. 1,000 crore will be set up. Click here to read...

Rock Varnish May Help Identify Habitable Environments in Space

Magneto-fossils-- fossil remains of magnetic particles produced by magnetostatic bacteria have been spotted in rock varnish layers in Ladakh. The study suggesting biotic processes in the formation of rock varnish indicates how life can exist in extreme environments, providing valuable insights for astrobiology as well as for planning future space missions targeting to identify habitable environments in space. They collected samples of rock varnish from the Ladakh region, chosen and employed XPS to analyse the surface chemistry of the rock varnish. Click here to read...

Use of Space Technology in Agricultural Sector

Currently, the he Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare is using space technology for its various programmes/ areas, such as, Forecasting Agricultural Output using Space, Agro-meteorology and Land based Observations (FASAL) project, Coordinated programme on Horticulture Assessment and Management using geoinformatics (CHAMAN) project, National Agricultural Drought Assessment and Monitoring System (NADAMS), Rice-Fallow Area Mapping and intensification, proper implementation of Crop Insurance etc. Click here to read...

NASA Aims To Unblock Space Station Congestion

NASA is grappling with an impending congestion at the International Space Station (ISS) due to recent delays and technical issues involving SpaceX and Boeing, as the space agency works to restore smooth traffic flow to and from the orbiting laboratory. NASA officials indicated that the next month is likely to see increased traffic at the ISS. This comes after a period of operational challenges that had temporarily stalled the agency's ability to transport astronauts. However, NASA officials have framed the situation positively, describing the expected congestion as a sign of progress. Click here to read...

Russia, China Taking Space into Dangerous Territory, US says

U.S. military and intelligence agencies warn that Russia and China are edging ever closer to unleashing space-based weapons, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for America’s ability to defend itself. Adding to the concern, they say, is what appears to be a growing willingness by both countries to set aside long-running suspicions and animosity in order to gain an edge over the United States. Concerns about the safety of space surged earlier this year when House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Turner called for the declassification of “all information” related to what was described as a new Russian anti-satellite capability involving nuclear weapons. Click here to read...

III. Nuclear Technology

India's Installed Nuclear Power Capacity to Triple by 2031-32

India's installed Nuclear Power Capacity to triple by 2031-32. “The present installed nuclear power capacity is set to increase from 8180 MW to 22480 MW by 2031-32” stated Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply to an unstarred question in Rajya Sabha on 25 July 2025. Highlighting India’s energy transition to Net Zero by 2070 Dr. Jitendra Singh said, “Various studies have projected the need to have a national nuclear capacity of the order of 1 lakh MW by 2047, recommendations of those studies are being viewed for possible future adoption.” Click here to read...

No Discrepancies in Operational Safety of Nuclear Power Plants

“There are no discrepancies in operational safety of nuclear power plants. The Nuclear power plants are operated by highly trained personnel licensed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), in line with laid down procedures. These procedures are periodically reviewed and upgraded as required” says Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh while replying to an unstarred question in Lok Sabha on 31 July 2024. The Minister shared that there are currently nine nuclear power reactors with a total capacity of 7,300 MW under construction and additionally, plans are in place for twelve more reactors, underscoring a robust expansion strategy. Click here to read...

Quad Nations Condemn North Korea for Using Ballistic Missile Technology

The Quad Foreign Ministers criticised North Korea for using ballistic missile technology and continuing its pursuit of nuclear weapons in defiance of UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs), and urged the country to comply with all UNSCRs. In a joint statement released by the US Department of State from the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting, "We condemn North Korea's destabilising launches using ballistic missile technology and its continued pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of multiple UNSCRs." The joint statement emphasised the need to prevent any proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies related to North Korea in the region and beyond. Click here to read...

Third Global Forum for Nuclear Innovation (GFNI) Held

The third Global Forum for Nuclear Innovation (GFNI) organized in cooperation with the IAEA, attracted more than 150 professionals from over 20 countries last month in Miami, Florida in the USA. The forum provided participants with a diverse toolkit to overcome barriers to nuclear innovation, including a course on hosting and facilitating workshops and a handbook on tackling challenges within the nuclear sector. This year it aimed to help turn ‘Ambition into Action’ by bringing together global influencers and decision makers at all organizational levels, including several outside the nuclear industry. Click here to read...

Nuclear Security Implications of Uncrewed Systems Technology

The IAEA has launched a new research project dedicated to uncrewed systems technology (UxS), commonly known as drones. It will explore the benefits and challenges of UxS technology in the area of nuclear security, and include uncrewed aerial-, ground-, and marine-based vehicles. “The collection of projects under this coordinated research project (CRP) will offer actionable insights and strategies to fortify the global nuclear security framework,” said Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Security, adding that “a comprehensive analysis of the evolving technological landscape.” Click here to read...

IV. Emerging Technologies and Applications

Making India a Global Manufacturing Hub for Electronics

NITI Aayog has launched the report titled “Electronics: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains”. The Report extensively analyses India’s electronics sector, emphasizing its potential and challenges. It also outlines specific interventions needed for India to emerge as a global manufacturing hub for electronics. Global Value Chains (GVCs) are critical in modern manufacturing, involving international collaboration across design, production, marketing, and distribution. They represent 70% of international trade, highlighting India’s urgent need to enhance its participation, especially in electronics, semiconductors, automobiles, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Click here to read...

Classical and Quantum Communications for 6G

Dr Neeraj Mittal, Secretary (Telecom) has inaugurated a centre of excellence on “Classical and Quantum Communications for 6G” at IITM Research Park, Chennai. This is a sub-centre of Telecom Centers of Excellence (TCoE)-India and it will spearhead the development and deployment of 6G technology, promising unprecedented speeds, ultra-low latency, and enhanced connectivity. The centre will serve as a hub for innovation, bringing together academic and industry experts to collaborate on cutting-edge projects. This collaborative environment will foster the development of new applications and services that leverage 6G's capabilities. Click here to read...

Steps To Support the MSME Sector and Create an Enabling Environment

Government has recently taken a number of steps to support the MSME sector in the country and create an enabling positive environment including new criteria for classification of MSMEs with higher threshold, based on Investment and Turnover, to widen the ambit of the MSME sector; and, No global tenders for procurement up to Rs. 200 crores. According to the information provided by Reserve Bank of India, low interest loans are extended to the Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). Click here to read...

Safeguarding India’s Digital Landscape

India has emerged as a global leader in the digital landscape, with a staggering 936 million Internet subscribers till December 2023, as per TRAI data, transforming it into one of the largest connected nations worldwide. Termed as 'Digital Nagriks', Indians are increasingly integrating the internet into their daily lives, relying on it for essential needs such as business transactions, education, financial activities, and accessing government services digitally. Recognizing the critical importance of a secure digital environment, the Government of India has been implementing robust policies aimed at safeguarding its vast online community. Click here to read...

Start-up Ecosystem in the Agricultural Sector

Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare is implementing “Innovation and Agri-Entrepreneurship Development” programme under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), with the objective of promoting innovation and agri-entrepreneurship, by providing financial and technical support for nurturing startups. Five Knowledge Partners (KPs) and 24 RKVY Agribusiness Incubators (R-ABIs) have been appointed for training & incubation of startups and implementation of this programme. Under the programme, financial support upto Rs. 5 lakh is provided at the idea/pre seed stage and upto Rs. 25 lakh at the seed stage to entrepreneurs/ startups in agriculture & allied sector. Click here to read...

V. International Cooperation

India-UK Defence and Technology Cooperation

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy paid an official visit to New Delhi, where India and the UK agreed to further intensify bilateral collaboration in areas of defence, security, trade and investment. Both sides also welcomed the launch of the UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI), spearheaded and agreed upon by the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of both countries, to expand collaboration in critical and emerging technologies (CET) across priority sectors including telecom, critical minerals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum, biotech, and advanced materials. The collaboration under TSI will include the government, private sector, academia, and R&D institutions. Click here to read...

India-US Defence Technology Cooperation

As part of the US $3.1 billion 31 MQ-9B Predator drone deal between India and the US, American side is proposing to provide consultancy to Indian entities for developing an indigenous advanced unmanned aerial vehicle. India and the US have been holding discussions for the drone deal for the last few years, under which the three services will get the 31 drones, with the Navy getting 15 drones and the Air Force and Army and Air Force getting eight each. The American offer to provide consultancy to Indian entities for developing an advanced Indian drone as part of the project is expected to be taken up for discussion and clearance at the DAC meeting, defence sources told ANI. Click here to read...

‘US-India Defence Cooperation Act’ Introduced in US Congress

Republican Senator Marco Rubio has introduced a bill in the US Senate to strengthen ties between US and India; and, to bar Pakistan from receiving security assistance if it is found to have sponsored terrorism against India. The bill titled ‘US-India Defence Cooperation Act’ requires a report to Congress on Pakistan's use of offensive force, including through terrorism and proxy groups, against India; and bar Pakistan from receiving security assistance if it is found to have sponsored terrorism against India. "In order to strengthen this partnership, it is essential to enhance our strategic diplomatic, economic, and military relationship with New Delhi," Rubio said after he introduced the Bill. Click here to read...

India-Taiwan Cooperation in Semiconductor & Electronics Sectors

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday greeted Homer CY Chang, Director General of the Mumbai-based Economic and Cultural Centre of Taiwan in Gandhinagar. Chang expressed a keen interest in strengthening trade relations with Gujarat, particularly in the semiconductor and electronics sectors. Chang, who is also participating in the Gujarat Semi-connect Conference-2024, held a one-to-one meeting with Patel at Mahatma Mandir after the inaugural session of this conference. Click here to read...

India- Russia Cooperation in Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy

Government of India and Government of Russian Federation have expressed interest to expand the cooperation in the field of the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes including cooperation in the field of Small Modular Reactor, Dr. Jitendra Singh said. The Minister shared that Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent unit of Department of Atomic Energy, has found presence of Lithium resources in Mandya and Yadgiri districts, Karnataka. Highlighting the presence of lithium reserves Dr. Singh stated that presently, AMD is carrying out exploration for Lithium in the potential geological domains in parts of Korba District, Chhattisgarh. Click here to read...

VI. Regional and Global Trends

ASML's Order Book Expected To Jump on AI Chip Boom

ASML, the top equipment supplier to computer chip makers, is expected to report an influx of new orders when its new boss delivers second-quarter results, as customers expand capacity to meet booming demand for AI chips. Another focus will be whether Chinese firms have continued heavy purchasing of equipment used to make older generations of chips such as those used in electric cars, a concern for Western policymakers who have curbed buying of more advanced technology. ASML dominates the market for lithography systems, complex tools that use lasers to help create the tiny circuitry of computer chips. Click here to read...

Chinese EVs Nab Record 11 percent Share in Europe Ahead of Tariffs

Chinese brands last month captured 11 percent of the European electric vehicle (EV) market, notching record registrations as manufacturers raced to beat stiff EU tariffs that took effect early this month. SAIC Motor Corp led the charge, shipping its MG4 hatchback to dealers in volume, according to analysts at researcher Dataforce, which compiled the figures. Vehicles registered before 5 July could be sold to customers without the added duties on imported EVs. Chinese brands registered more than 23,000 battery EVs across the region during the month, the most ever, Dataforce figures showed. Click here to read...

Concern over Tighter US Curbs on Chip Sales to China Impacts TSMC

Concern over a pricey valuation and the risk of tighter US curbs on chip sales to China have poured cold water on TSMC’s bullish momentum. TSMC shares fell the most in three months yesterday upon trading resumption, joining a global technology rout as investors dramatically soured on the promises of artificial intelligence (AI). The shares declined 5.62 percent to close at NT$924 in Taipei, dragging down the benchmark TAIEX, which fell 3.29 percent to 22,119.21 points amid a technical correction, Taiwan Stock Exchange data showed. The latest technology rout adds further pressure on TSMC, whose record-breaking rally has been faltering since the middle of this month. Click here to read...

Nvidia Preparing a Version of New Blackwell AI Chip for China Market

Nvidia is working on a version of its new flagship AI chips for the China market that would be compatible with current U.S. export controls, four sources familiar with the matter said. The AI chip giant in March unveiled its "Blackwell" chip series, which is due to be mass-produced later in the year. Nvidia will work with Inspur, one of its major distributor partners in China, on the launch and distribution of the chip which is tentatively named the "B20", two of the sources said. Shipments of the "B20" are planned to start in the second quarter of 2025, a separate source told Reuters. Click here to read...