1) Vanuatu’s law students & lawyer Julian Aguon win Right Livelihood Award
- The Right Livelihood Award (also called the “Alternative Nobel Prize”) has been awarded to law students from Vanuatu and Pacific human rights lawyer Julian Aguon.
- Recognition: For their fight against climate change, environmental justice, and indigenous rights in the Pacific Islands.
- Context: The award honors grassroots initiatives providing practical solutions to global problems.
2) Indian Army issues tender to buy Anant Shastra
- The Indian Army has issued a tender to acquire Anant Shastra, an indigenous air-defense system.
- Purpose: To strengthen India’s aerial defense capabilities on the Pakistan and China fronts.
- Significance: Part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance in defense) initiative to reduce dependence on imports.
3) First successful wheat cultivation in West Rajasthan using Desert Soil Creation Technology
- For the first time, wheat has been successfully cultivated in West Rajasthan using new desert soil creation technology.
- Technology: Converts arid sand into fertile soil by improving water retention and nutrient availability.
- Impact: Could revolutionize agriculture in desert regions, ensuring food security and sustainable farming.
4) RBI constitutes Six-Member Payment Regulatory Board
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formed a six-member Payment Regulatory Board.
- Function: To oversee digital payments, fintech growth, and consumer safety in India’s fast-expanding payments ecosystem.
- Importance: Ensures balanced regulation and innovation in India’s digital economy.
5) IISc Bengaluru develops Siphon-Powered Thermal Desalination System
- The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru has developed a siphon-powered thermal desalination system.
- Purpose: Converts sea water into clean drinking water using thermal gradients and siphon principles.
- Advantage: Low-cost, sustainable technology suitable for coastal and island regions facing drinking water scarcity.
