Science and Technology (S&T) Digest 16-31 January 2024, Issue 30

Dr Saroj Bishoyi, Research Fellow, VIF

March 12 , 2024 Views: 170 Comments: 0

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

MoD Signs Contract with MDL for 14 Fast Patrol Vessels for ICG

The Ministry of Defence has signed Contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), Mumbai on 24 January, 2024, for acquisition of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The value of the contract is Rs 1070.47 cr. These multi role FPVs will be indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by MDL under Buy (Indian-IDDM) Category and will be delivered in total 63 months. Along with several high tech advanced features and equipment, these FPVs will be equipped with multipurpose drones, wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoy and AI capability etc. enabling greater flexibility and operational edge to the ICG to face new age multidimensional challenges. Click here to read…

Launch of ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 19 (Yard 129)

The launch of ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 19 (Yard 129)’, 5th Barge of 11 x ACTCM Barge Project, built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane for Indian Navy, was undertaken on 24 January 2024. The contract for building 11 X ACTCM Barge was signed between MoD and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane on 05 March 2021. The availability of these Barges would provide impetus to operational commitments of Indian Navy by facilitating Transportation, Embarkation and Disembarkation of articles/ ammunition to IN Ships both alongside jetties and at outer harbours. Click here to read…

Collaborative Efforts of BEL and Start-ups in Defence Production

Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane inaugurated ‘Abhigyaan’, the state-of-the-art auditorium at the Central Research Laboratory (CRL) of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Defence Public Service Unit (DPSU) on 10 January 2024 in Ghaziabad, UP. He termed the Abhigyan auditorium as an asset to the scientific community. Interacting with the scientists and engineers of BEL, the Defence Secretary urged them to have more collaborations with the domestic start-ups and incubators with the aim to provide state-of-the-art technologies/products to the armed forces. He emphasized that more initiatives should come from the scientists and engineers of BEL. Click here to read…

Inauguration of Clean and Green CO2-Based AC Plant

Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, inaugurated the unique CO2 based Air Conditioning plant at INS Shivaji on 17 January 2024. The AC Plant is first of its kind and is set to replace HFC (Hydro Fluro Carbons) and HCFC (Hydro Chloro Fluro Carbons) based air conditioning systems onboard ships. This step is in line with India's commitment towards Kigali Agreement of 2016 to phase down HFC and HCFC based synthetic refrigerants from 2028 onwards and Transcritical CO2 based air conditioning plant is the first step towards it. This technology aligns with the global efforts to combat climate change and supports Indian Navy's initiative towards sustainable green alternatives. Click here to read…

II. STI in Space Sector

Space Tech Industry Urges the Government to Expand GST Exemption

In the upcoming Interim Budget, the space tech industry is urging the government to expand the GST exemption to satellites, launch vehicles and ground equipment manufacturing. In July 2023, following the 50th meeting of the GST Council, the government granted GST exemption on satellite launch services provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Antrix Corporation, New Space India Limited, and startups in the space sector. The Indian Space Association, representing over 39 space tech startups and major companies including Bharti-backed OneWeb, Airtel, and Larsen and Toubro, has requested the government to grant tax holidays and exemptions for firms in the space sector. Click here to read…

Call for Collaborative Push to Make India a Global Space Leader

Indian Space Association, the industry association representing private space companies in the country, has proposed recommendations for the Union Budget 2024-25, with a focus on enhancing the financial well-being of the industry. The past year has witnessed remarkable achievements by ISRO, generating national pride. Initiatives like technology transfer to the private sector, international cooperation agreements (Artemis Accords, iCET, INDUS-X), and increased private investments have shaped India’s space industry. A 10-year vision by IN-SPACe targets a US$44 billion space economy by 2033. Click here to read…

India Satellite Communication (Satcom) Symposium 2024

Addressing at the India Satellite communication (Satcom) Symposium 2024, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Abhay Karandikar, said that there will be a convergence of satellite connectivity, terrestrial network broadcasting and cellular mobile communications in the 6G era. Satcom market globally is growing significantly and in fact, it has been growing with a CAGR of almost 13%. The Secretary said, the broadband communications segment continues to grow in India and we will look at where satellite connectivity can be harnessed for a variety of use cases relevant to our country. The space broadband demand for various applications, whether it is navigation or defense or internal security, coastal surveillance and others. Click here to read…

Students Innovation Festival-Space Hackathon at IISF 2023

The second day of the Student Innovation Festival - Space Hackathon of IISF 2023 witnessed an address by S Somanath, Secretary, Department of Space, and Chairman, ISRO. Engaging with students from across the country, Dr Somanath shared his insights and motivation, encouraging participants to explore the endless possibilities in space technologies. He emphasized the pivotal role of space technologies in various sectors, ranging from agriculture and remote sensing to navigation, transport, water resources, infrastructure, and more. He highlighted the significance of the Bhuvan portal and its applications for the common man, fostering innovation and societal development. Click here to read…

Space Race Heats Up as US & China Eye Orbital 'Parking Spots'

The world's first private mission to land on the moon took off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on 8 January 2024. The solar panels failed to orient themselves, and a fuel leak occurred, delaying efforts to send humans into space for at least a year. In contrast, China has had a successful track record in space exploration, with multiple missions to the lunar orbit and surface, including the far side. The competition between China and the United States extends beyond Earth, as both countries vie for strategic positions in space. Bill Nelson, NASA's top official and a former astronaut and US senator, warned of China's intentions to gain a foothold on the moon. Click here to read…

III. Nuclear Technology

Neutron Imaging Create Opportunities for Low Power Research Reactors

Neutron imaging is a non-invasive technique for examining internal structures that is carried out using research reactors or accelerator-based neutron sources. Molly-Kate Gavello, Associate Project Officer at the IAEA, said that “It is an amazing tool, with endless possibilities for scientific and industrial research and development, as well as for forensics and the study of cultural artefacts”. Neutron imaging can be used to test motors, shock absorbers and turbine blades. It can show how water moves within a living plant, or examine the inside of a fossilized dinosaur skull filled with ferrous rock. Click here to read…

Japan’s Discharge of Treated Water in Line with Safety Standards

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Task Force conducting a safety review of Japan’s discharge of treated water into the sea at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS) on 30 January 2024 issued its first full report since the water discharge began in 2023. In its observations, the Task Force found the discharge to be consistent with international safety standards and reaffirmed the conclusions from the Agency’s comprehensive safety report issued on 4 July 2023. During its mission from 24 to 27 October 2023, the Task Force reviewed the facilities and equipment installed at FDNPS to discharge the ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System) treated water. Click here to read…

IAEA Report on Estonia’s Development of Nuclear Power Infrastructure

The IAEA has handed over to Estonia the final report of a peer review mission that assessed Estonia’s development of the infrastructure needed for a safe, secure and sustainable nuclear power programme. The Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission was conducted from 23 to 30 October 2023 at the invitation of the Government of Estonia. An IAEA team of experts reviewed the status of nuclear infrastructure development as outlined for Phase 1 of the IAEA's Milestones Approach. Click here to read…

The Philippines Forges Ahead with Radiation Technology for Plastic Recycling

A project in the Philippines, supported by the IAEA’s NUTEC Plastics initiative, aims to reduce the amount of plastic waste the country generates by using radiation to strengthen the discarded plastic and make it suitable for recycled materials and products. “The Philippines generates an estimate of 61 000 metric tons of solid waste daily, up to 24 per cent of which is plastic.” Marine plastic pollution is threatening the fisheries and aquaculture industry of the Philippines — the 11th largest in the world. To tackle this problem, the Philippines recently introduced an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, which means companies are now responsible for the plastic packaging they use to protect, transport, and sell their products. Click here to read…

IV. Emerging Technologies and Applications

PLI Schemes Witness over Rs. 1.03 lakh Crore of Investment

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes witness over Rs. 1.03 lakh crore of investment till November 2023, which has led to production/ sales of Rs. 8.61 lakh crore and employment generation (direct & indirect) of over 6.78 lakhs. PLI Schemes have witnessed exports surpassing Rs. 3.20 lakh crore, with significant contributions from sectors such as Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Food Processing, and Telecom & Networking products. As of 17 January 2024, 746 applications have been approved in 14 Sectors with expected investment of over Rs. 3 lakh crore. 176 MSMEs are among the PLI beneficiaries. Click here to read…

Startups Playing a Pivotal Role in India

Startups are playing a pivotal role in India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. While addressing the Startup Awards & State Ranking Awards function in New Delhi on 16 January 2024, the Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Piyush Goyal highlighted the diverse sectors in which startups are making substantial contributions, ranging from MedTech, FinTech, AgroTech to the aviation sector, drones, and simulators. The Minister noted that India has emerged as the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, realizing the dreams of countless entrepreneurs and introducing innovative ways of doing business. Click here to read…

Finalisation of Implementation Strategy and Timelines of NQM

The first meeting of Mission Governing Board (MGB) of National Quantum Mission (NQM) under the chairmanship of Dr. Ajai Chowdhry discussed implementation strategy and timelines of NQM as well as the formation of Mission Coordination Cell (MCC). The MCC will be set up as a coordinating agency for the Mission and will work in coordination with the Mission Secretariat, DST. The MCC will be set up in an institution identified by DST, based on merit and existing infrastructure and will function under the overall supervision and guidance of Mission Technology Research Council (MTRC). Highlighting the genesis of quantum technology in India Dr. Ajai Chowdhry said that NQM will leapfrog in this area and that manpower and startups are two major things that need to be focused on. Click here to read…

MeitY Launches Two Flagship Programmes, IIoT Sensors and IICG

On 17 January 2024, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, launched two flagship programs – “Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Intelligent Internet of Things (IIoT) Sensors” and India’s first Graphene Centre “India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG)” at Maker Village, Kochi, Kerala. The CoE in IIoT Sensors to catalyze the development of sensors within the realm of Intelligent IoT systems covering a broad spectrum of applications of intelligent sensors in networks, devices and sensor systems. The India’s first Graphene Centre IICG to foster R&D, product innovation and capacity building in the area of Graphene and 2D material systems. Click here to read…

V. International Cooperation

India-France Scientific Cooperation

The second meeting of the Indo-French Joint Committee of Science and Technology (JCST) was held in New Delhi on 18 January 2024 where the two sides discussed ways of catalyzing a stronger and rejuvenated Indo-French scientific partnership. The scientific collaboration seamlessly aligns with the broader framework of the Indian and French strategic partnership, commemorated by Prime Minister Modi's visit to France on Bastille Day in July 2023, marking 25 years of collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indo-French roadmap “Horizon 2047”, signed on Bastille Day in Paris, underscores the commitment to bilateral scientific cooperation. Click here to read…

India-EU Semiconductor Cooperation

The Indian government has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 21st November, 2023 between the Government of Republic of India and the European Commission on Working Arrangements on Semiconductors Ecosystems, its supply chain and innovation under the framework of EU-India Trade and Technology Council (TTC). The MoU intends to strengthen cooperation between India and EU towards enhancement of semiconductor for the advancement of Industries and digital technologies. Both G2G and B2B bilateral Cooperation to boost the resilience of the semiconductor supply chains and leverage complementary strengths to promote collaboration in the field of semiconductors. Click here to read…

India-Cuba Digital Cooperation

An MoU has been signed between Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of the Republic Of India and the Ministry of Communications of the Republic of Cuba on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation on 19 January 2024 in New Delhi. The MoU intends to promote digital transformation (viz. INDIA STACK) through Capacity Building programs, exchange of best practices and other collaborative activities to mutually benefit the digital ecosystems of both countries. India will collaborate with Cuba by building upon development partnership on digital transformation leading to a smooth adoption of Digital Public Infrastructure in Cuba. Click here to read…

India-Kenya Digital Technology Cooperation

The Indian government has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Kenya on cooperation in the field of sharing successful Digital Solutions implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation. The MoU intends to promote closer cooperation and exchange of experiences and digital technologies-based solutions in the implementation of digital transformational initiatives of both the country. Both G2G and B2G bilateral Cooperation in the field of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) will be enhanced. MoU envisages improved collaboration leading to employment opportunities in the field of IT. Click here to read…

India-Oman Cooperation in Information Technology

The government has approved a MoU between India and Oman on cooperation in the field of Information Technology. The MoU intends to promote comprehensive cooperation between the Parties through mutual support, sharing of technologies, information and investments in the field of Information Technology. The MoU shall come into effect from the date of signature of the Parties and shall be remain in force for a period of 3 years. Both G2G and B2B bilateral Cooperation in the field of Information Technology will be enhanced. MoU envisages improved collaboration leading to employment opportunities in the field of IT. Click here to read…

VI. Regional and Global Trends

Japan’s Startup, NanoQT, Developing Quantum-Based Internet

Masashi Hirose was a high-schooler in Nagoya, Japan, when he first picked up a book about quantum physics. Most of the scientific phenomena he knew about until then seemed to have been studied thoroughly and were well-established entities. But quantum, with concepts like wave-particle dualities, captured Hirose’s imagination. To the teenager, the field felt more esoteric. Little did Hirose realize that the beginnings of an interest fueled by the “strange” field would lead him to launch NanoQT, Japan’s first quantum hardware-focused startup, fueling dreams of developing critical components for a quantum-based internet. Click here to read…

US Wants Cloud Service Providers to Flag Foreign Users in China AI Race

The US wants cloud service providers such as Amazon.com Inc. and Microsoft Corp. to identify and actively investigate foreign clients developing artificial intelligence (AI) applications on their platforms, part of a widening tech conflict between Washington and Beijing. The Biden administration proposal, released on 29 January 2024, requires the firms to reveal foreign customers’ names and IP addresses. Amazon and its peers, which include Alphabet Inc.’s Google, would need to develop a process to collect those details and report any suspicious activity. Click here to read…

South Korea’s SK Hynix Stuck in Limbo of US-China Rivalry

A memory chip plant located halfway between Seoul and Beijing illustrates the tough choices South Korean business leaders and policymakers face as they try to limit the damage from the US technology war with China. South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix Inc. bought its Dalian plant in northeast China from Intel Corp. in a $9 billion deal in 2020 that was supposed to help the world's No. 2 memory maker shore up capacity and expand into cutting-edge chips in the world's largest chip market. Instead, the factory has ensnared SK Hynix in a complex web of US restrictions aimed at limiting China’s access to materials and equipment considered key to dominating the battlegrounds and industries of the future. Click here to read…

Nvidia Chief Jensen Huang Visits China in Four Years

Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang Jen-hsun visited China for the first time in four years to attend annual company meetings, as mainland Chinese market challenges mount for the US chip giant amid Washington’s moves to tighten export rules. The Taiwan-born American entrepreneur visited Nvidia’s offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen over the past week, and appeared on stage at the company’s annual meetings, according to reports by Chinese media outlets. In October 2023, the US government further tightened chip export restrictions, blocking China’s access to graphics processing units (GPUs) that Nvidia had specifically designed for Chinese clients in response to earlier curbs. Click here to read…