Science and Technology (S&T) Digest (1-15 December 2024), Issue 51

Dr Saroj Bishoyi, Research Fellow, VIF

January 15 , 2025 Views: 9 Comments: 0

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security

In-House Innovations to Mitigate Existing Capability Voids

The Indian Army conducted the Idea & Innovation Competition and Seminar, named Inno-Yoddha 2024-25 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi in presence of General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff. Inno-Yoddha is an annual event conducted by the Indian Army. It identifies in-house innovations to mitigate existing capability voids, enhance the Operational, Logistics, Training capabilities and increases operational effectiveness. The operational challenges faced by the Indian Army are varied, aggravated by the vagaries of terrain, weather and adversarial threats. The Indian Army promotes In-house innovations, which are based on the challenges experienced by the troops in the field army.Click here to read…

Making India Self-Reliant in IC Chip Manufacturing

Considering the immense importance of IC manufacturing technology, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) organised a one-day Workshop on the theme “Energizing Semiconductor Ecosystem to Make India Self-Reliant in IC Chip Manufacturing” at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi on 13 December 2024. The event was chaired by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Deputy Chief of IDS (Perspective Planning and Force Development). He propounded the need to develop an ‘Indian Defence Semiconductor Policy’, stating that ‘India was on the cusp of a trans-formative change driven by demand and the Government’s policy’. Integrated circuits are the backbone of modern technology, used in smartphones, computers, medical device, automotive systems, military systems, communication networks and critical infrastructure.Click here to read…

Commissioning of Nirdeshak the Second Ship of Survey Vessel (Large) Project

The Indian Navy is all set to commission its latest survey ship, Nirdeshak, at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, on 18 December 24. The ship, built at GRSE Kolkata, boasts over 80% indigenous content, reaffirming India’s expertise in ship design and construction & Indian Navy’s focus towards Aatmanirbharta. The 110-meter-long vessel, with a displacement of approximately 3800 tons, is powered by two diesel engines and is equipped with state-of-the-art Hydrographic and Oceanographic Survey Equipment. Nirdeshak, the second ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, is designed to conduct hydrographic surveys, aid in navigation, and support maritime operations. With an endurance of over 25 days at sea and a top speed exceeding 18 knots, INS Nirdeshak is set to enhance India’s Maritime capabilities.Click here to read…

Indian Light Tank (ILT) Achieves a Milestone by Firing at High Altitude

Indian Light Tank (ILT) has achieved a major milestone by firing a number of rounds at different ranges at an altitude of more than 4200m, at a High-Altitude Location with consistently accurate results. This was subsequent to the Phase I trial in desert environment in September 2024. This light tank has been defined, designed and developed by Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment, the Chennai-based laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) against the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements of Indian Army. It is manufactured by the Industry Partner Larsen & Toubro Precision Engineering & Systems. ILT is being designed as a 25-ton class armoured fighting vehicle to meet the requirements of the Armed Forces for High altitude applications.Click here to read…

Launch of Seventh MCA Barge, LSAM 14 (Yard 82)

Launch ceremony of seventh MCA Barge, LSAM 14 (Yard 82) was held on 12 December 24 at Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra, west coast launch site of M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd Visakhapatnam. The contract for construction of eight Missile Cum Ammunition Barges was concluded with M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, Visakhapatnam on 19 February 21, a MSME Shipyard. The Shipyard has indigenously designed these Barges in collaboration with an Indian Ship Design firm and subsequently successfully model tested at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam to ensure seaworthiness. These Barges are proud flag bearers of “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives of Government of India.Click here to read…

II. STI in Space Sector

Efforts to Make India a Developed Nation by 2047 in Space Sector

Government of India has been making significant efforts towards achieving the goals outlined in India’s Space Vision 2047. These efforts focus on technological advancements, international partnerships, increasing the participation of private players and advancing space exploration missions. The major initiatives taken up are: Government of India has carried out Space sector reforms in 2020 to allow participation of Indian private sector in space activities. As a part of these reforms, Government has delineated the roles of various entities viz., IN-SPACe, ISRO and NSIL. Government of India has announced the Space Vision 2047 which targets establishing BharatiyaAntariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and landing of an Indian on Moon by 2040.Click here to read…

Incentives for Homegrown Space Products

The Government provides GST exemption on ‘Satellite Launch Services’ as well as ‘on transfer of communication assets [Spacecraft (including satellites)]’ to encourage the domestic players. GST exemption for Ground Systems, components of Launch vehicles/Satellites, have been demanded by Industry in various meetings/forums. However, a formal proposal from Industry is awaited, detailing the nature/scope of the exemption sought. An ‘Investment Incentive Scheme’ has been worked out for Space Sector in lieu of Production-Linked Incentive Scheme. In order to encourage use of space technology, IN-SPACe devised a seed fund scheme and provided grant to the six Indian start-ups to develop products and services in the sectors i.e. Agriculture, Disaster management and Urban Development using space technology.Click here to read…

Bhartiya Antriksh Space Station and Crewed Lunar Mission

The vision for space in the Amrit kaal envisages including other things, establishing an operational BharatiyaAntariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and Indian Crewed Lunar Mission by 2040. BAS will be the first National Space Laboratory to conduct multidisciplinary microgravity experiments and studies in the fields of Science, Technologies, Medicine, Agriculture, Space manufacturing, among others. BAS will also be acting as platform for global & national collaboration, gateway to lunar exploration & beyond and to help boosting the Space Economy of the country. ISRO has initiated development of various technologies for the BharatiyaAntariksh Station.Click here to read…

Significance of Space Debris Management

Recognising the growing importance of Space Situational Awareness (SSA) for space sustainability, ISRO System for Safe and sustainable Space Operations Management (IS4OM) has been established to focus all efforts related to spaceflight safety and debris mitigation and for dealing with the emerging challenges in operating in a congested space environment. Network for Space object TRacking and Analysis (NETRA) has been approved by GOI for SSA capacity building. ISRO adheres to the internationally accepted space debris mitigation guidelines recommended by UN -COPOUS and Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) to the maximum possible extent.Click here to read…

The 63rd Annual Conference of Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine Institute

The 63rd annual conference of Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine Institute (ISAM) was held at Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), Old Airport Road, Bengaluru from 05 to 07 December 2024. The conference themed 'Collaborate for Research', portrays the determination of the Aerospace Medicine Society to explore new horizons with collective efforts of associated partners and yet remain connected to origins. Air Marshal SP Dharkar, Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS), in his inaugural address emphasized the criticality of collaboration in achieving 'Atmanirbharta' in the defence forces. He also felicitated the young academic achievers in Aerospace Medicine.Click here to read…

III. Nuclear Technology

India Announces its Plans to Deploy Small Modular Reactors

India has only recently announced its plans to deploy Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) (220 MWe PHWRs) and develop Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs). In this context, Research & Development has been initiated for BSMRs. The deployment of these reactors will be aimed at sector which have captive power requirements. Many countries have shown interest in collaborating with India for SMRs. The various options are in exploration stage at present. The Government has announced initiatives to set up Bharat Small Reactor and involve Private sectors in the nuclear energy programme of the country. Supply Chain of BSRs are already established in the country with several in operation with excellent safety features and record continual operation.Click here to read…

India’s Nuclear Power Generation Capacity Grown

India’s Nuclear power generation capacity has grown significantly in last one decade, nearly doubling from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024. This was informed in the Lok Sabha by Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, in response to a discussion on nuclear power. The Minister highlighted the significant progress and future potential of India's atomic energy programme. He elaborated on key developments and outlined a roadmap for achieving greater self-reliance in nuclear power generation. He emphasized the revision of India’s power distribution framework, which has increased the home state’s share of electricity from atomic plants to 50%, with 35% allocated to neighboring states and 15% to the national grid.Click here to read…

Plans to Increase the Nuclear Power Capacity to 22480 MW by 2031-32

Presently, a plan to increase the nuclear power capacity to 22480 MW by 2031-32 from the present capacity of 8180 MW is being implemented. Nuclear energy expansion is a part of the strategy to decarbonise country’s energy sector to transition the country’s energy mix towards Net Zero by 2070. It is envisaged that small modular reactor can be deployed in remote areas where the total energy demand can be met by small reactors. These plants can be deployed as captive power plants and hence connection to the main grid need not be criteria.Click here to read…

Safety of India’s Nuclear Power Plant

On 5 December, Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh assured the Rajya Sabha that India’s nuclear power plants are among the safest in the world, with stringent safety protocols and international oversight. Responding to a question on nuclear safety during Question Hour. The Minister emphasized the rigorous safety protocols followed at every stage of nuclear plant development and operation, assuring the nation that India’s nuclear energy programme is both secure and sustainable. India’s nuclear safety framework is further bolstered by international oversight. The World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and other global bodies periodically review India’s facilities, reinforcing their safety standards.Click here to read…

Total Number of Employees Working in Nuclear Power Plants

There are presently nine nuclear power reactors at various stages of construction/ commissioning. As on September 2024, a total 10,349 number of contractor’s employees were engaged at the operating stations of NPCIL under various job contracts. Total 300 number of contract employees are working in BHAVINI. The Nuclear Power Plants adheres to all the applicable laws pertaining to industrial establishments and regulations of Atomic Energy regulatory Board (AERB), thus providing safe and favorable working environment to its employees. At all Nuclear Power Plants, there are Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in different sections of the plant depending on their functions. These SOPs are followed strictly by the users and their compliance is verified as per established procedures.Click here to read…

IV. Emerging Technologies and Applications

Measuring Faint Cosmological Radio-Frequency Signals

Scientists at the Raman Research Institute, Bangalore, have come up with a novel antenna design which can perform sky measurements 2.5 - 4 Gigahertz (GHz), a frequency range with the best possibility of detecting the faint Cosmological Recombination Radiation (CRR) signals. These elusive and undetected signals hold vital clues capable of improving our understanding of the thermal and ionization history of the Universe. Our universe is about 13.8 billion years old. Soon after the Big Bang, the infant Universe was an extremely hot and dense place. So hot, that matter could not exist as atoms. It instead broke down into electrons, protons, and other light nuclei (Helium, Lithium).Click here to read…

Managing Insulin Resistance Related to Type II Diabetes

Researchers have identified the therapeutic potential of the seedpods from the traditional medicinal plant Subabul in managing insulin resistance related to type II diabetes and developed a marker-assisted fraction and four active compounds from it. Subabul or Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit is a fast-growing leguminous tree commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The leaves and immature seeds are eaten in the form of soups or salad, both raw and cooked, providing a rich source of protein and fibre, leading to its traditional usage in human and animal food by different ethnic communities. A team consisting of Abhipsha Saikia, Pranamika Sarma and Prof. Jagat C Borah have developed a bio-activity guided fraction and four active compounds, by selecting the most active fraction after screening all the fraction for their bio activity.Click here to read…

Promising Materials Identified for Next Generation Electronic Devices

Scientists have identified the potential of Janus Sb2XSX' monolayers as promising materials for next-generation spintronic devices and multifunctional electronic applications bringing potential solutions to pressing demands in energy-efficient electronics, flexible devices, and sensors. The rising demand for energy efficient materials with better electronic properties has triggered the growing need for advanced materials in spintronics and multifunctional electronics. 2D materials are crucial today due to their exceptional electronic, optical, and mechanical properties, which enable advancements in flexible electronics, energy storage, and nanotechnology. Their atomic thinness allows for highly efficient and miniaturized devices.Click here to read…

Himalayan Heights Potentially Perfect for India's ‘Quantum Leap’ to Space

In a pioneering study for the Indian subcontinent, scientists have mapped out optimal locations for beaming quantum signals into space. Satellite-based quantum communications including quantum key distribution (QKD) represent one of the most promising approaches toward global-scale quantum communications. To determine the viability of transmitting quantum signals through the atmosphere, it is essential to conduct atmospheric simulations for both uplink and downlink quantum communications and practicality of potential locations for the same need to be determined.Click here to read…

India’s Spending on Semiconductor R&D Crosses ₹2859 Crore

India has emerged as a global leader in semiconductor design workforce, witnessing remarkable growth. Most of the leading international companies have established R&D (Research and Development) and innovation centres in India, drawn by the country’s exceptional design talent. As per the ‘SemiconIndia Future Skills Talent Committee report’, about 1.25 Lakh semiconductor design engineers were working in India in the year 2022. According to other estimates, such as the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA)/Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report on ‘Emerging Resilience in the Semiconductor Supply Chain’ (published in May 2024), Indian engineers accounts to about 19% of global design engineers.Click here to read…

UPI Revolutionized Digital Payments in India

In October 2024, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) achieved a historic milestone by processing 16.58 billion financial transactions in a single month, underscoring its pivotal role in India’s digital transformation. Launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI has revolutionized the nation’s payment ecosystem by integrating multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application. This system enables seamless fund transfers, merchant payments, and peer-to-peer transactions, offering users flexibility through scheduled payment requests. UPI has not only made financial transactions fast, secure, and effortless, but it has also empowered individuals, small businesses, and merchants, driving the country’s shift toward a cashless economy.Click here to read…

V. International Cooperation

International Cooperation in the Field of Space Research

Currently, space cooperative documents have been signed with 61 countries and 5 multilateral bodies. The major areas of cooperation are Satellite Remote Sensing, Satellite Navigation, Satellite Communications, Space Science and Planetary Exploration and Capacity Building. The Government has taken the following measures to encourage and incentivize private sector participation in space exploration and technology development in India: The space sector has been liberalized and private sector allowed to carry out end to end space activities. Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) was created in Department of Space for promoting, authorizing and overseeing the activities of Non-Government Entities (NGEs) in Space Sector.Click here to read…

NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Mission

NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture RADAR (NISAR) is an Earth science mission being jointly developed by NASA and ISRO under a collaborative agreement. The NISAR was earlier slated for launch in the first-half of 2024. However, during the assembly, integration & testing phase, NASA experts determined that the 12-meter Radar Antenna Reflector need some corrective actions and has to be taken to USA for rectification. Subsequently, the Radar Antenna Reflector, was delivered to ISRO by NASA in October 2024, which is re-integrated with the satellite and currently undergoing necessary tests. Also, due to the eclipse season, the conditions are not conducive for deployment of NISAR’s boom and the Radar Antenna Reflector.Click here to read…

India-Italy S&T, Innovation and Space Exploration

Senior Italian Minister Adolfo Urso, who holds multiple portfolios including Enterprises & Space, on 2 December called on Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh to discuss extension of bilateral cooperation. The meeting between the two Ministers focused on advancing collaborative efforts in science, technology, innovation, and Space exploration. Dr. Jitendra Singh warmly welcomed Adolfo, emphasizing the robust foundation of Indo-Italian ties. During the meeting, Italy’s interest in expanding cooperation with India across sectors such as Space technology and advanced manufacturing was prominently highlighted. Both nations recognized the potential for addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts and pioneering innovative solutions for a sustainable future.Click here to read…

India and Slovenia Announce Five-Year S&T Collaboration Plan

“We are happy to deepen our ties with Slovenia as we finalize the Programme of Cooperation (PoC) for five years, that is, 2024–2029. This initiative will open avenues for research and foster networks among scientists of both nations,” said Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh during his meeting with Slovenian Minister for Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr. Igor Papič in Delhi on 6 December. The dialogue underscored both nations’ commitment to strengthening their scientific and technological collaboration. The India-Slovenia partnership, rooted in a 1995 agreement, has grown through programs such as the Joint Working Group on Scientific and Technological Cooperation.Click here to read…

Israeli Startups to Collaborate on National Quantum Mission

Israel's Industry & Economy Minister Nir Barkat, currently on India visit, on 3 December called on Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh. Two leaders discussed collaboration in StartUps, particularly in Space and Quantum Technology. They also discussed collaborative innovation initiatives in agriculture and health sectors. The Israel Minister was accompanied by a high-level official delegation. Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the transformative potential of India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM), envisioning it as a cornerstone of the country’s technological aspirations. He invited Israeli startups, known for their pioneering work in quantum computing, to partner with Indian institutions to co-develop critical quantum technologies.Click here to read…

VI. Regional and Global Trends

Lithium-rich Bolivia Lags Behind in Race to Mine the Key Metal

In a patch of South America rich in lithium, used to make batteries for electric cars and other tech, Bolivia is lagging behind its neighbors in the race to mine the key metal. An area called the Lithium Triangle which spills over the borders of Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is home to 60 percent of the world's lithium reserves, according to the US Geological Survey. Bolivia claims to have Earth’s largest deposit of the metal, used to make rechargeable batteries for smartphones, laptops and other devices besides e-vehicles. But Bolivia has undertaken only four pilot projects and is running just one plant to produce the metal -- and at 20 percent of its capacity. In South America, lithium lies in salt flats. The cheapest way to extract it is to pump water up from underground deposits and let it sit in pools to evaporate, leaving the lithium carbonate from which the metal is derived.Click here to read…

US Reaches Deal with Bosch for $225 million in Chip Grants

The US Department of Commerce has said that it had reached a preliminary deal with German auto supplier Bosch for up to US $225 million in subsidies to build silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, a key component in electric vehicles (EVs), in California. The department said the funding would support Bosch’s planned US $1.9 billion investment to transform its manufacturing facility in Roseville, California for production of SiC power semiconductors. It is also offering Bosch approximately US$350 million in proposed government loans for the project. The department is tapping the US$52.7 billion fund, approved in 2022, to subsidize US semiconductor production and research.Click here to read…

Google Cracked a Quantum Computing Challenge with New Chip

Google said that it has overcome a key challenge in quantum computing with a new generation of chip, solving a computing problem in five minutes that would take a classical computer more time than the history of the universe. Like other tech giants such as Microsoft and International Business Machines, Alphabet's Google is chasing quantum computing because it promises computing speeds far faster than today's fastest systems. While the math problem solved by the company's Santa Barbara, California quantum lab does not have commercial applications, Google hopes quantum computers will one day solve problems in medicine, battery chemistry and artificial intelligence that are out of reach for today's computers. The results came from a new chip called Willow that has 105 "qubits," which are the building blocks of quantum computers.Click here to read…

Malaysia Says U.S. Tariffs Could Impact Semiconductor Supply

Malaysia said that any attempt by the incoming Trump administration to impose tariffs on BRICS countries for trying to create a new currency or use alternatives to the dollar could cause global semiconductor supply chain disruptions. The BRIC grouping of major emerging economies initially included Brazil, Russia, India and China, and has since expanded to take in other countries. Malaysia has applied to be part of the bloc, which aims to challenge a world order dominated by Western economies, but has not yet been officially accepted as a member. Trade minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz said Malaysia was closely monitoring developments after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said BRICS members would face 100% tariffs unless they committed to not creating a new currency or supporting another currency that would replace the United States dollar.Click here to read…

US Firms up $6.2 bn Micron Funding to Boost Chipmaking

US President Joe Biden's administration finalized nearly $6.2 billion in funding for Micron Technology, firming up a deal to boost domestic semiconductor production before Donald Trump returns to the White House. The Biden administration has been working to green-light agreements with firms in the chip making supply chain over recent months, hoping to cement it as part of his legacy before leaving office in January. Once a deal is finalized, funds can start heading to companies when they hit certain milestones. The Micron investment helps bring development and production of advanced memory semiconductor technology to US shores, said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. This "is crucial for safeguarding our leadership on artificial intelligence and protecting our economic and national security," she added.Click here to read…