Exercise AIKYA

Source: TH Context: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Southern Command of the Indian Army launched a two-day national symposium, “Exercise AIKYA,” focusing on disaster management. The event includes simulations, technology discussions, and expert insights on disaster preparedness. It emphasized the role of defence forces and the importance of technology in managing disasters, …

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 September 2024

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16 September 2024 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles   InstaLinks :  Insta Links help you think beyond the  current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These …

Zorawar

Source: BS Context: The DRDO has successfully completed the first phase of developmental field trials for the Zorawar Light Tank, designed for high-altitude deployment, particularly in areas like Ladakh. Conducted in desert terrain, the trials tested the tank’s firing accuracy, with the tank meeting all performance goals. Developed by the Combat Vehicles Research & Development …

INDUS-X Summit

Source: PIB Context: The third edition of the INDUS-X Summit, highlighted growing collaboration between India and the U.S. in defence innovation. The event, organized by the S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and Stanford University, saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India’s iDEX and the U.S. Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) to enhance …

Project NAMAN

Source: PIB Context: The Indian Army launched Project NAMAN to support Defence Pensioners, Veterans, and their families, centred around the SPARSH digital pension system. The project aims to streamline pension processes and provide essential services through Common Service Centres (CSCs) across India. These centres, supported by HDFC Bank and managed by veterans or their families, …

‘Aravalli’ helicopter engines

Source: Economic Times  Context: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has partnered with SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. to jointly develop and manufacture a new high-power helicopter engine named ‘Aravalli’. This collaboration is focused on supporting the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being developed by HAL. Purpose: These …

ICG Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre

Source: PIB Context: Raksha Mantri inaugurated the new Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC). The Regional Marine Pollution Response Centre and the Coast Guard Air Enclave was also inaugurated. These facilities are designed to enhance maritime security and ensure efficient responses to emergencies.

Tarang Shakti

Source: The Statesman Context: India hosted its first-ever multinational air exercise, “Tarang Shakti,” showcasing the capabilities of indigenously manufactured aircraft, including the Sarang helicopters and LCA Tejas. The exercise is being conducted in two phases. The exercise was a significant achievement, emphasizing India’s focus on “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) and showcasing indigenous military capabilities. India’s Rafale, Sukhoi, …

Pralay Missiles

Source: EurAsian Times Context: Armenia is interested in acquiring India’s Pralay missile to counter Azerbaijan’s Israeli-origin LORA missiles. This potential deal would enhance India’s reputation as a missile exporter, following the success of the Brahmos missile export. The Pralay, developed by DRDO, has a higher percentage of indigenous content compared to the Brahmos, making it …

Camcopter S-100

Source: First Post Context: India is set to enhance its naval capabilities through a deal with Austrian company Schiebel for their Camcopter S-100 unmanned aerial system (UAS).   Features of Camcopter S-100: The system can operate in various extreme climates and has a high endurance, making it ideal for the Indian Ocean Region. The Indian …

NOMADIC ELEPHANT

Source: PIB Context: The 16th edition of the India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT began in Meghalaya. The exercise aims to enhance joint military capabilities for counterinsurgency operations under the United Nations Mandate Chapter VII, focusing on semi-urban and mountainous terrain. Key tactical drills include response to terrorist actions, the establishment of joint command posts …