21 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC
PIB Summary for UPSC
21-March -2024
1. Maiden test-firing of India’s first indigenously-made 1500 HP engine for Main Battle Tanks held at BEML in Mysuru.
Topic: GS3 – Internal Security From a UPSC perspective, this topic is crucial as it highlights India’s strides in indigenous defence technology development. |
Context |
● The news announces the successful test-firing of India’s first indigenous 1500 HP engine for Main Battle Tanks, marking a significant advancement in defence capabilities and showcasing the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technologies. |
Additional information on this news:
- Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane presided over the maiden test-firing of India’s first indigenous 1500 HP engine for Main Battle Tanks at BEML’s Engine division in Mysuru complex on March 20, 2024.
- This achievement signifies a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities, highlighting the country’s technological prowess and commitment to self-reliance in defence technologies.
- The 1500 HP engine boasts cutting-edge features including a high power-to-weight ratio and operability in extreme conditions like high altitudes, sub-zero temperatures, and desert environments.
- Defence Secretary termed it a transformative moment that will enhance the Armed Forces’ capabilities.
- The project, initiated in August 2020, is structured into generations, with Generation One focusing on technology stabilization and Generation Two slated for completion by mid-2025.
- The ‘Wall of Fame’ was inaugurated to recognize the BEML team’s extraordinary efforts in advancing the country’s defence capabilities through indigenous technological innovation.
- Senior civil and military officers, industry partners, and BEML officials attended the event, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this achievement.
A significant leap in technological capabilities in the defence sector: |
● Technological Advancement: India’s successful development and test-firing of the indigenous 1500 HP engine signifies a significant leap in technological capabilities in the defence sector. ●Self-reliance: The achievement underscores India’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for critical defence equipment, enhancing national security. ● Enhanced Military Performance: The engine’s cutting-edge features, such as high power-to-weight ratio and operability in extreme conditions, will bolster the performance of Main Battle Tanks, strengthening India’s military effectiveness. ● Strategic Independence: By developing indigenous defence technologies, India ensures strategic autonomy and reduces vulnerability to geopolitical pressures. ● Economic Implications: Domestic production of advanced defence equipment fosters economic growth, job creation, and technological innovation within the country. ● Global Recognition: India’s strides in indigenous defence technology development garner international recognition, positioning the nation as a formidable player in the global defence arena. |
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India’s successful test-firing of the indigenous 1500 HP engine for Main Battle Tanks in bolstering national defence capabilities. (150 Words /10 marks) |
2. NIXI and MeitY to unveil BhashaNet portal at UA Day tomorrow for Digital Inclusion across the nation
Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government policies The topic highlights India’s efforts to promote digital inclusivity, aligning with UPSC’s focus on technological advancements and governance. |
Context |
● This news announces the launch of the BhashaNet portal by NIXI for Universal Acceptance Day, emphasizing digital inclusivity and linguistic diversity. |
Additional information on this news:
- NIXI launches BhashaNet portal for Universal Acceptance (UA) Day on March 21, 2024, at Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
- Second event highlights joint commitment between NIXI and MeitY to promote UA and digital inclusion.
- ICANN and MeitY’s Internet Governance division actively support UA Day.
- Theme: “BhashaNet: Impetus Towards Universal Acceptance,” emphasizing inclusivity in the digital world.
- Aim: Mobilize stakeholders, raise UA awareness, ensure linguistic diversity in digital participation.
- Event features keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical workshops by distinguished speakers.
- Chief Guest and Joint Secretary from MeitY to attend, showcasing government support and dedication to UA initiatives.
- NIXI, under MeitY, facilitates internet ecosystem development, including IXPs, .IN Registry, IRINN, and Data Centre services.
Digital inclusion in India: |
Importance of Digital Inclusion in India: ● Economic Empowerment: Digital inclusion fosters economic growth by providing access to online job opportunities, entrepreneurship, and financial services. ● Education: It enables access to educational resources, online courses, and digital literacy programs, enhancing learning outcomes. ●Social Inclusion: Digital platforms facilitate social connectivity, access to government services, and participation in democratic processes. ●Healthcare: Digital inclusion improves healthcare access through telemedicine, health information dissemination, and remote consultations. ● Innovation: It fosters innovation and technological advancement by providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange. Challenges: ● Infrastructure: Insufficient internet connectivity and poor infrastructure in rural and remote areas hinder digital access. ● Affordability: High costs of devices, internet services, and digital literacy programs restrict access for low-income populations. ● Digital Literacy: Limited awareness and skills among marginalized communities hinder their ability to utilize digital resources effectively. ●Language Barriers: Limited content availability in regional languages restricts access for non-English speakers. ● Gender Disparities: Women face additional barriers due to cultural norms, limited access to resources, and digital skills gaps. Way Forward: ● Infrastructure Development: Expand broadband connectivity and improve digital infrastructure in rural and remote areas. ● Affordability Initiatives: Implement subsidies, community networks, and innovative financing models to make devices and internet services more affordable. ●Digital Literacy Programs: Launch comprehensive digital literacy campaigns targeting marginalized communities to enhance their skills and awareness. ●Multilingual Content: Encourage the creation of digital content in regional languages to improve accessibility and relevance. ● Gender-Specific Initiatives: Implement targeted programs to address gender disparities, including skill-building workshops and women-focused digital inclusion schemes. |
PYQ: What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2023) |
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of digital inclusion in India’s socio-economic development, highlighting key challenges and proposing effective strategies for enhancing digital accessibility and literacy across diverse populations. (250 Words /15 marks) |
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