Category Archives: Business & Economy

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: SATELLITES: India’s 52-satellite initiative: Enhancing surveillance on adversaries including China and Pak

In what augurs well for India’s security capabilities, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has reportedly approved Phase III of the Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) mission. This decision will pave the way for the launch of 52 surveillance satellites in low earth and geostationary orbits.

The Modi government’s move is likely to give sleepless nights to adversaries such as China and Pakistan, as the two neighbours among others will be under continuous monitoring once the capabilities are fully operational.

With this ramped-up capability, India will be able to detect enemy submarines operating in the Indo-Pacific region, sources familiar with the development said. In addition to this, India will improve and upgrade its ability to monitor and closely watch any illegal infrastructure development by China near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The government’s decision to give a major boost to India’s space-based surveillance capabilities comes at a very significant time. This has come amid growing tensions and shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. As China continues to be overassertive in a bid to expand its footprints and presence in the region, the decision aimed at bolstering India’s security measures, such as deploying surveillance satellites, to effectively monitor and respond to Beijing’s actions, is a timely action.

In response to China’s belligerence in the region, the Modi government is implementing effective measures to safeguard the country’s maritime and other security regional interests. It will also ensure that potential threats from hostile submarines are quickly detected and dealt with. Beyond maritime security, experts indicate that these satellites will also monitor infrastructure development by adversaries along India’s land borders.

The move includes monitoring along the disputed Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, where the construction of new roads, airstrips, and military outposts has raised major concerns over the past several years. In addition to this, increased surveillance along the Pakistan border will enable India to keep an eye on new defence-related infrastructure projects that could pose risks to national security.

Sources say that India will be able to share the information and key inputs gathered from these satellites about Chinese illegal and expansionist activities with other countries as well.

The surveillance satellite project aimed at improving land and maritime domain awareness for both civilian and military purposes is being managed by the National Security Council Secretariat in collaboration with the Defence Space Agency under the Defence Ministry’s integrated headquarters. The project, with a budget of Rs 26,968 crore, entails the construction and launch of 21 satellites by ISRO, while the remaining 31 will be developed by private companies.

source/content: ianslive.in (headline edited)

NATIONAL: METAL INDUSTRY: India’s ship recycling industry expected to grow at 10 pc CAGR by 2028

The ship recycling industry in India is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10 per cent by 2028, according to a new report.

India accounted for 33 per cent of the global gross tonnage (GT) dismantled in CY23, second only to Bangladesh, which handled 46 per cent, according to a report by CareEdge Ratings.

The ship recycling industry is expected to grow to 3.8-4.2 million GT in 2025, as against an estimated 2.3-2.6 million GT in 2024.

In India, Alang-Gujarat stands among the largest ship recycling facilities in the world, boasting over 140 recycling yards.

According to the report, India’s ship-recycling industry is a crucial part of the global maritime sector.

The top four countries including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey dominate the ship-recycling industry, dismantling over 90 per cent of the global ship recycling volume.

India and Bangladesh consistently led the industry, while contributions from other countries were variable and generally lower.

According to Sajni Shah, Assistant Director, CareEdge Ratings, cooling-off of Baltic Dry Index (BDI), stabilisation of heavy melting scrap prices, and increase in obsolete ships in operations, suggest more ships to enter the recycling market from CY25 onwards.

Countries having better infrastructure and green recycling facilities are expected to attract a larger portion of ships in future, Shah added.

According to the report, prices for heavy melting scrap in Bhavnagar surged from Rs 28,800 per tonne in August 2020 to a peak of Rs 54,400 per tonne in April 2022, driven by supply chain disruptions and heightened demand for steel amid post-pandemic economic recovery efforts.

However, after peaking, scrap prices began to decline, settling at Rs 39,900 per tonne in December 2023. Since January 2023, prices have stabilised between Rs 36,000 per tonne and Rs 44,000 per tonne, the report added.

source/content: ianslive.in (headline edited)

NATIONAL: BEACON of INDIA INC. : Ratan Tata family tree: From Jamsetji Tata to Maya Tata, know all the members here

Ratan Tata Family tree: Here’s a look at the family lineage of the Tatas.

Ratan Tata complete family Tree: Ratan Naval Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai Wednesday night. He was admitted following age-related health issues and was undergoing treatment at the hospital. Tata, a beacon of India Inc, steered his group amid India’s economic liberalisation and, subsequently, guided its global expansion.

Conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, Tata was considered one of the greatest philanthropists in the country who touched lives of millions through his work in the field of healthcare, education, drinking water and many other areas.

Here’s a look at the family tree of the Tatas

Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group was born to Nusserwanji Ratan Tata and Jeevanbai Kavasji Tata, in 1939. apart from Jamsetji, Nusserwanji had four other children — Ratanbai, Maneckbai, Virbaiji, Jerbai.

Born into a family of Parsi priests, Jamsetji broke the tradition as he started his own trading firm in 1868 at a young age of 29. He started with a textile mill in central India in the 1870s. His vision later set the foundation for technical education in India and helped the nation to be counted among the industrialised nations.

Jamsetji married Hirabai Daboo and had three children — Sir Dorabji Tata, Dhunbai Tata and Sir Ratan Tata. 

Dorabji, the elder son of Jamsetji, was instrumental in translating his father’s vision into reality. It was under his leadership that the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust was created, propelling the Tata tradition of philanthropy. Jamsetji’s younger son, Ratan, was a philanthropist who created a trust to fund educational development, alleviate human sufferings and other public utility works.

Sir Ratan Tata married Navjbai Sett and adopted Naval H Tata. Naval married Sonoo Commisariat and had two sons — Ratan N Tata and Jimmy N Tata. But Naval and Soonoo divorced when Ratan N Tata was only 10 years old. Naval later married Simone Dunoyer and with her, had a son, Noel Tata. Noel is Ratan and Jimmy’s half brother.

While Ratan and Jimmy never married, Noel tied knot with Aloo Mistry, sister of late Cyrus Mistry, who served as Chairman of Tata Group. Noel and Aloo have three children — Leah Tata, Maya Tata and Neville Tata.

Neville is married to Manasi Kirloskar and together they have two children – Jamset Tata and Tiana Tata.

Again, Jeevanbai Kavasji Tata’s brother Dadabhai Kavasji Tata (adopted son of Kavasji Maneckji Tata) had a son with his wife Bhikhibai. Dadabhai’s son Ratanji Dadabhai Tata married a French woman Suzanne Briere. They had five children — Syla Petit, Jehangir Ratanji Dababhai Tata, Rodabeh Tata, Darab Tata and Jimmy Tata. 

Jehangir or JRD Tata, who went on to become Tata Chairman, pioneered civil aviation on the subcontinent in 1932 by launching the airline which is now known as Air India.

source/content: indianexpress.com (headline edited)

GLOBAL: WORLD’s HIGHEST: Ladakh gets world’s highest MACE Observatory, largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia

This observatory underscores India’s advancements in space and cosmic-ray research capabilities.

The Union Territory of Ladakh gets the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) observatory, the world’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located at an altitude of over 4,300 metres in Hanle.

This observatory underscores India’s advancements in space and cosmic-ray research capabilities.

Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, the secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, officially inaugurated the MACE observatory here, an official spokesperson said.

Built indigenously by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited and other Indian industry partners, the MACE is the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia, he said.

The inauguration ceremony, held as part of the DAE’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, included the unveiling of commemorative plaques by Dr Mohanty at the Hanle site.

Addressing the importance of balancing tourism and scientific activities within the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), Additional Secretary Ajay Ramesh Sule encouraged the students to pursue career in science and technology.

BARC’s Physics Group Director, Dr SM Yusuf, underscored the MACE telescope’s significance in advancing India’s capabilities in space and cosmic-ray research.

A pictorial compilation documenting the MACE project journey was released during the ceremony.

Dr Mohanty also felicitated the village leaders, the school headmaster, and the lama of the Hanle Gompa.

The MACE telescope, observing high-energy gamma rays, will contribute to global efforts to study phenomena like supernovae, black holes and gamma-ray bursts, he said

He added it aims to foster international collaborations, bolstering India’s role in multimessenger astronomy.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL:WORLD’S LARGEST / HEALTHCARE: India has launched world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, says Minister J P Nadda

WHO SEARO Regional Director Saima Wazed underlined that the best antidote for crisis is cooperation and underscored the need for collaborative regional action to build on the public health gains and overcome new threats in the region.

India has launched the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana, which covers over 120 million families, providing an annual hospitalization benefit of USD 6,000 per family, said Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Monday.

“This expansion will benefit around 45 million families, including 60 million elderly population, by providing them free health insurance coverage. It underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring universal and inclusive healthcare for India’s growing elderly demographic,” said Nadda at the 77th session of the Regional Commission of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Southeast Asia Region, which kicked off here.  

Nadda, who was elected as the chairperson of the session, highlighted that the government has recently expanded the scheme to all citizens aged 70 years and above.   

Recognizing the growing public health challenges posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Union Health Minister said “India is implementing the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs since 2010 to address conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This initiative has led to the establishment of 753 NCD clinics, 356 Day Care Centers, and 6,238 Community Health Centers to focus on preventive measures at an early stage.”  

India as a lighthouse country in the digital health arena, is poised to share its Digital Public Infrastructure (DPIs) such as Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, e-Sanjeevani, Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), SAKSHAM, etc. by providing technical and financial support through the Global Initiative on Digital Health – a WHO-managed network, launched during India’s G20 Presidency, he said.  

“Following the remarkable success of the CoWIN digital platform during the COVID-19 pandemic, India has conceptualized the online digital platform-UWIN, for the Universal Immunization Programme. The portal will register, track, and monitor all vaccination events,” he added at the three-day event.  

Understanding the important role that traditional and complementary medicine plays across numerous Southeast Asian member states, Nadda emphasized that India has backed the WHO in creating the Global Traditional Medicine Centre, aimed at promoting these systems on a global scale. 

“India’s experience in integrating this system with the conventional system of medicine has led to the provision of holistic healthcare, promoting overall well-being and expanding the range of healthcare services,” he added.  “Our Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs that are community Health & Wellness Centres are significant in providing comprehensive healthcare through both traditional and conventional systems of medicines, ensuring the physical and mental well-being of our citizens,” Nadda said. 

“We believe that collective experiences can drive transformative actions across countries. Health transcends borders, necessitating a holistic and collaborative approach. By learning from each other’s successes and challenges, we can enhance the resilience of health systems,” he said at the annual governing body meeting of WHO in the Region, which was attended by the member nations including Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Indonesia, the Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste. The SEARO region has 11 member nations, including India.  

He emphasized unity in addressing global challenges, fostering inclusive, human-centric growth, building trust by acknowledging aspirations, and harnessing each nation’s strengths for the global good.  

WHO SEARO Regional Director Saima Wazed underlined that the best antidote for crisis is cooperation and underscored the need for collaborative regional action to build on the public health gains and overcome new threats in the region. 

“In 1948, when the first Regional Committee for South-East Asia was formed, the infant mortality rate globally was around 147. Today it is 25. Then, the antibiotic age had just begun. Today, we are faced with antimicrobial resistance. Think of how far we have come, and how far we still have to go. And so, as we conquer old threats, we are faced with new ones. It is upon us to confront the perils of today, with the collective wisdom of all who came before us – and with the tools of the 21st century. This is why we are here today,” she said.  

In his message to the Regional Committee, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus lauded the Region for its many achievements in disease elimination and reiterated WHO continued support to Member States on addressing the challenges.  

“Notwithstanding your many successes, the region faces many challenges, as you know: the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and mental health; the unfinished business of reducing neonatal and under-5 mortality; the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance; inequitable access to health services and essential medicines; the continuing burden of tuberculosis,” he said.  

Ministers of Health, senior health officials, public health experts, and representatives from non-governmental organizations are attending the annual governing body meeting being held in New Delhi from October 7-9. 

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL: GI TAGS: Bodo Tribe’s Eight Products, Including ‘Aronai’, Secure GI Tags In Assam

In a major step towards preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Assam, eight products of the Bodo tribe, including the iconic ‘Aronai’, have secured Geographical Indication (GI) tags. This development not only acknowledges the unique craftsmanship of the Bodo community but also provides a boost to the local economy by safeguarding these products’ authenticity on a global platform.

The Bodo tribe, one of the largest indigenous groups in Northeast India, has a rich tradition of weaving and handicrafts. The GI tag will protect the intellectual property rights of these products, preventing unauthorized use and imitation, while also promoting the Bodo culture and heritage globally.

What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a certification provided to products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. This certification ensures that only products produced in a specific region can be marketed using that name, thereby protecting the authenticity and traditional knowledge associated with the product.

For the Bodo tribe, receiving GI tags for these eight products is a recognition of their centuries-old craftsmanship, which has been passed down through generations. This certification not only adds economic value but also helps preserve the traditional techniques and cultural practices unique to the Bodo community.

The Eight Bodo Products That Secured GI Tags

The eight products from the Bodo community that have been awarded GI tags include:

  1. Aronai: The most iconic product of the Bodo tribe, Aronai is a traditional scarf or shawl that is an integral part of Bodo culture. It is worn during important ceremonies, festivals, and even as a daily accessory. Made from high-quality silk or cotton, the intricate weaving patterns and vibrant colors of Aronai symbolize the identity and pride of the Bodo people.
  2. Dokhona: A traditional attire worn by Bodo women, Dokhona is a long wrap-around dress made from woven silk or cotton. It is often adorned with colorful patterns and is considered an essential part of Bodo cultural festivals and ceremonies.
  3. Gamsa: A handwoven fabric used as a towel or wrap, Gamsa is a versatile product that reflects the Bodo tribe’s skilled weaving techniques. Known for its durability and fine craftsmanship, it is often used in everyday life and during cultural rituals.
  4. Bodo Mekhela: Mekhela, another traditional attire for women, consists of two pieces of cloth draped around the body. The Bodo version of Mekhela is known for its unique designs, rich fabric, and vibrant colors, making it a staple in Bodo women’s wardrobes during cultural celebrations.
  5. Jwmgra (Traditional Shawl): This traditional shawl is another product of Bodo weaving craftsmanship, often made from cotton or silk and used during formal and cultural events.
  6. Silk Shawls: Bodo silk shawls are renowned for their softness and intricate patterns. These shawls are often made from Assam silk, a high-quality material, and are worn on special occasions.
  7. Endi Shawls: Endi, or eri silk, is produced in Assam and is known for its eco-friendly production process. Bodo artisans weave this silk into beautiful shawls that are highly sought after for their warmth and comfort.
  8. Bodo Handloom Textiles: This includes a variety of fabrics woven by the Bodo community, showcasing their rich tradition of handloom weaving. These textiles are used to create traditional attire, accessories, and home décor items.

Cultural and Economic Impact of GI Tags

The GI tagging of these eight products is a momentous achievement for the Bodo community and the state of Assam. It not only provides legal protection to the products but also elevates the status of traditional Bodo crafts on the global stage. With this recognition, these products can now be marketed more effectively, both in India and internationally, which will boost tourism and economic opportunities for local artisans.

The Bodo tribe has long been recognized for their skilled weaving techniques, which are deeply embedded in their cultural identity. The GI tag helps in preserving these traditional crafts, encouraging younger generations to continue the legacy of their ancestors.

Boost to Assam’s Handloom and Handicraft Industry

The handloom and handicraft industry in Assam is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, employing thousands of artisans, particularly women. With the GI tagging of these products, the Bodo tribe’s artisans can now sell their crafts at premium prices, increasing their income and improving their livelihood. This recognition also opens doors for export opportunities, enabling these products to reach a broader audience worldwide.

The GI tags will also promote sustainable tourism in the region, as visitors are likely to be drawn to the rich cultural heritage and unique crafts of the Bodo tribe. Tourists who visit Assam for its natural beauty and wildlife will now have an added reason to explore the traditional Bodo textiles and handicrafts, further boosting the local economy.

While the GI tags are a significant achievement, there are challenges in ensuring that the benefits reach the artisans at the grassroots level. Efforts must be made to establish strong supply chains, promote these products in international markets, and provide artisans with the necessary training to maintain quality standards.

The government, along with local organizations, must work together to create marketing platforms and digital avenues for promoting these products globally. E-commerce platforms and artisanal fairs can be valuable tools in reaching a broader audience and ensuring that the GI-tagged products achieve their full potential.

The GI tagging of eight traditional products from the Bodo tribe of Assam, including the beloved Aronai, is a proud moment for the community and the entire state. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Bodo people and their contribution to India’s vibrant handloom and handicraft traditions. As these products gain international recognition, they will not only boost the local economy but also serve as symbols of pride and identity for the Bodo community.

source/content: boroktimes.com (headline edited)

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: INTERNATIONAL TRADE: India-UAE bilateral trade set to surpass $100 billion target before 2030. UAE remains India’s 03rd Largest Trade Partner and 02nd Largest Export Destination

The bilateral trade between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on track to surpass the $100 billion target well before 2030, underscored by a notable 12.7 per cent (year-on-year) increase, according to a report on Tuesday.

The UAE remains India’s third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination (FY2022-23).

According to a report by Primus Partners, Bilateral trade reached $85 billion in FY 2022-23 and is expected to cross the 2030 target of $100 billion well before the expected timeline.

The India-UAE economic relationship strengthened with the recent visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to India. The two countries signed five MoUs, following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Crown Prince.

The India-UAE trade relations are entering a new era, driven by structural reforms like 2022 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that have dismantled long-standing barriers.

“This shows how this trade growth is not only strengthening existing sectors like gems, jewellery, and IT but is also paving the way for emerging industries such as green energy and food security,” said Nilaya Varma, CEO and Co-founder of Primus Partners.

Both countries lead the path for key collaborative ventures, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as well as the India-Israel-UAE-US (I2U2) coalition.

The India-UAE economic relationship is set to be further cemented with initiatives like the implementation of a master dashboard to oversee critical infrastructure projects; establishment of a bilateral e-commerce marketplace for goods and services, potentially leveraging India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) model and creation of an online digital repository highlighting investable projects in identified strategic sectors,

Nader Haffar, Director of Primus Partners UAE, said that the bilateral relationship has evolved into a multifaceted partnership that is reshaping the future of regional and global trade.

“This synergy between two of the world’s fastest-growing economies is creating new opportunities, fostering innovation, and building a foundation for long-term prosperity that could serve as a global model for emerging market partnerships,” Haffar added.

Gems and jewellery, traditionally a cornerstone of trade, have seen increased activity under the CEPA. The metals, stones, gems, and jewellery sector is among India’s key exports to the UAE.

Additionally, India’s agricultural exports to the UAE, including cereals, sugar, fruits, vegetables, and tea, contribute significantly to the trade basket, helping to address the UAE’s food security objectives.

–IANS

source/content: in.investing.com (headline edited)

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: RANKING: India Ranks as Third Most Powerful Nation in Asia, Surpassing Japan in Asia Power Index

India has become the third most powerful nation in Asia, surpassing Japan in the Asia Power Index. The Asia Power Index report for 2024 indicated that strong post-COVID economic growth has led India to increase its economic capability by 4.2 points. The report also highlights that India performed well across all other resource measures, especially in future resources, where its score rose by 8.2 points. This growth suggests that India’s youthful population may deliver a demographic dividend in the decades to come, unlike many other countries in Asia.

India’s Diplomatic Influence has also risen in the Asia Power Index. In 2023, India increased its tempo of diplomatic activity, participating in the sixth-highest number of dialogues with countries included in the Asia Power Index. This helped India surpass Japan, reinforcing its status as the third-largest power in the index and reflecting its increasing geopolitical stature.

The Asia Power Index ranks 27 countries and territories based on their capacity to shape their external environment, with its scope reaching as far west as Pakistan, as far north as Russia, and as far into the Pacific as Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

source/content: newsonair.gov.in (headline edited)

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: TREATIES: India signs High Seas Treaty for fair, equitable sharing of benefits (BBNJ) Agreement

The treaty follows an inclusive, integrated, ecosystem-centric approach based on the precautionary principle and promotes best available scientific knowledge.

India has signed the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which seeks to promote the conservation of marine genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits.

“India is proud to join the BBNJ Agreement, an important step towards ensuring that our oceans remain healthy and resilient,” external affairs minister S Jaishankar said in a post on X after singing the treaty at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Wednesday.

The agreement, or the High Seas Treaty, is an international accord under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The high seas cover areas nearly two-thirds (64%) of the ocean – almost half the planet’s surface. It includes some of the most ecologically vital, but critically threatened and least protected areas on earth; less than 1% of what is fully or highly protected.

The treaty aims to address the growing concerns over the long-term protection of marine biodiversity in the high seas. It sets precise mechanisms for the sustainable use of marine biological diversity through international cooperation and coordination. Parties cannot claim or exercise sovereign rights over marine resources derived from the high seas and ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits.

The treaty follows an inclusive, integrated, ecosystem-centric approach based on the precautionary principle and promotes using traditional knowledge and the best available scientific knowledge. It seeks to minimise impacts on the marine environment through area-based management tools and establishes rules for conducting environmental impact assessments.

In March 2023, after five years of negotiations, the world reached a significant milestone in efforts to stem global biodiversity decline when nations agreed to the new High Seas Treaty to protect ocean life. Once it has been ratified by at least 60 countries, the treaty will provide the legal framework to address many of the governance gaps that have plagued the ocean and provide a roadmap to conserve biodiversity areas beyond national jurisdictions.

According to the High Seas Alliance, following two decades of discussions, the implementing agreement to UNCLOS on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction – or High Seas Treaty – is the world’s first cohesive, international and legally binding framework to specifically protect high seas biodiversity.

At a workshop on the BBNJ in Chennai last month, PK Srivastava, an advisor to the Union earth sciences ministry, said the ministry will establish a dedicated institutional mechanism to oversee the developments regarding the agreement. “This authority will deal with the necessary regulations, studies, and other activities related to the treaty,” Srivastava said.

He emphasised the need for detailed discussions and modifications to existing legislation to ensure compatibility with the requirements for the effective implementation of the treaty. Srivastava said the Environment Protection Act could be used for the environmental impact assessment of the BBNJ Agreement.

source/content: hindustantimes.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL: IT & MANUFATURING / MADE IN INDIA : PM Modi launches indigenously developed Param Rudra Supercomputers

Showcasing India’s technological prowess, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched three Param Rudra supercomputers worth Rs 130 crore and developed indigenously as part of the National Supercomputing Mission.

The three supercomputers have been deployed in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata to support cutting-edge scientific research.

“With Param Rudra Supercomputers and HPC system, India takes significant steps towards self-reliance in computing and driving innovation in science and technology,” PM Modi said while launching the supercomputers via video conferencing.

The Prime Minister also launched a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system for the fields of weather and climate.

Addressing the scientific community, PM Modi said there is no sector or industry which does not rely on technology and high-computing capability. He added that in this sphere, India’s share “should not be in bits and bytes but in terabytes and petabytes”.

“Therefore, this achievement proves that we are moving in the right direction at the right pace,” said the Prime Minister.

With the PARAM supercomputer, the Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) will boost research in material science and atomic physics in New Delhi while the S.N. Bose Centre in Kolkata will focus on areas including physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.

Meanwhile, the Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Pune will use the supercomputer to explore astronomical phenomena such as Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs).

According to the government, the Param Rudra supercomputer incorporates the latest cutting-edge hardware and software technologies. A significant portion of its components were manufactured and assembled in India.

Param Rudra is capable of handling complex calculations and simulations at a very high speed. These homegrown and developed supercomputers are prime examples of India’s technological advancements. These are used for research in fields such as weather forecasting, climate modelling, drug discovery, materials science, and artificial intelligence (AI).

The country’s National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) has been set up to provide the country with supercomputing infrastructure to meet the increasing computational demands of academia, researchers, MSMEs, and startups.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)