1. Latest Update on Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)

The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) onboard Aditya-L1 recently detected an X6.3-class solar flare, categorizing it among the most powerful solar eruptions observed.

About SUIT

• A remote sensing payload on Aditya-L1, ISRO’s first dedicated solar mission launched on September 2, 2023.

• Developed by Pune’s Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in collaboration with ISRO centres.

• Designed to capture near-simultaneous full-disk and region-specific images of the Sun’s photosphere and chromosphere.

• Utilizes 11 calibrated filters (3 broad-band & 8 narrow-band) spanning 200-400 nm wavelength range.

• Located at Lagrange Point 1, enabling uninterrupted solar observations.

• Aims to study the dynamic interactions in the solar atmosphere, focusing on phenomena like jets, flares, and filament eruptions.

• For the first time, SUIT will monitor spatially resolved solar spectral irradiance, aiding in the understanding of the Sun's relationship with the climate.

What is a Solar Flare?

• A sudden and intense burst of solar energy is caused by the Sun’s dynamic magnetic field.

• Appears as a bright region on the Sun, lasting from minutes to hours.

• Releases energy in the form of light, radiation, and high-energy charged particles.

• Though visible in white light, solar flares are primarily detected via X-ray and ultraviolet emissions.

Impact on Earth

• It can disrupt satellite communications and radio signals.

• Increases the risk for astronauts due to high radiation levels.

• It may trigger geomagnetic storms, impacting power grids and causing auroras at lower latitudes.

Source: IE

2. Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) - Recent Development

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur.

About NASM-SR

• Features a Man-in-Loop system for in-flight retargeting.

• Operates in Bearing-only Lock-on after Launch mode, identifying and selecting targets among multiple objects.

• Uses Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker for terminal guidance.

• Equipped with Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based INS and Radio Altimeter for mid-course navigation.

• Employs solid propulsion with an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer.

• Developed by DRDO laboratories including Research Centre Imarat, DRDL, HEMRL, and TBRL.

• Features a high-bandwidth two-way datalink system for real-time image transmission.

Source: PIB

3. Biodiversity Leakage - Key Insights from Recent Study

A recent study published in Science journal highlighted the growing concern of biodiversity leakage across the globe.

What is Biodiversity Leakage?

• The displacement of environmentally harmful activities due to conservation efforts in specific regions.

• Occurs when restrictions on agricultural production in conservation areas lead to increased imports from biodiversity-rich regions.

• Undermines global biodiversity conservation efforts by shifting environmental degradation elsewhere.

Mitigation Measures

• Monitoring changes in food and wood production within conservation areas.

• Scrutinizing conservation projects for hidden production shifts.

• Incorporating biodiversity leakage considerations in national and international conservation policies.

• Reducing demand for high-leakage goods while improving production efficiency.

• Targeting conservation projects in areas with minimal production displacement.

Source: DTH

4. Amazon’s Ocelot Quantum Chip - Recent Announcement

Amazon unveiled its first in-house quantum computing chip, Ocelot, developed at the AWS Center for Quantum Computing at Caltech.

Key Features of Ocelot

• A nine-qubit chip fabricated internally by Amazon.

• Utilizes ‘cat qubits’ (inspired by Schrödinger’s cat) to suppress errors and enhance efficiency.

• Consists of two stacked silicon microchips bonded together.

• Incorporates five data qubits, five buffer circuits, and four error-detection qubits.

• Designed to optimize quantum error correction and enable more efficient computing.

Source: IE

5. SEBI Launches Bond Central - New Database for Corporate Bonds

SEBI introduced Bond Central, a centralized database portal to enhance transparency in India’s corporate bond market.

About Bond Central

• Developed by the OBPP Association in collaboration with Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs).

• Serves as an authentic and free information repository for corporate bonds.

• Offers comprehensive listings, price comparisons, and investor-centric data.

• Standardizes bond-related information, reducing asymmetry in the market.

Source: BS

6. Auroville Celebrates 57th Anniversary

Auroville, an international township in Tamil Nadu near Pondicherry, marked its 57th anniversary with a bonfire meditation at Matrimandir’s Amphitheatre.

About Auroville

• Founded on February 28, 1968, by Mirra Alfassa (‘The Mother’), a collaborator of Sri Aurobindo.

• Designed by French architect Roger Anger.

• Home to over 2,700 residents from 50+ nations.

• Focuses on sustainable living, peace, and harmony.

• Recognized by UNESCO through four resolutions (1966, 1968, 1970, and 1983).

• Governed by the Auroville Foundation Act, 1988.

Source: TH

7. Exercise Desert Hunt 2025 - A Tri-Service Military Drill

The Indian Air Force hosted Exercise Desert Hunt 2025 at Air Force Station Jodhpur from February 24-28, 2025.

About the Exercise

• Integrated Tri-Service Special Forces operation involving:

  • Para (Special Forces) - Indian Army

  • Marine Commandos - Indian Navy

  • Garud Commandos - Indian Air Force

• Focuses on airborne insertions, precision strikes, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and urban warfare.

• Aims to enhance interoperability and coordination among India’s special forces.

Source: PIB

8. Concerns Over Surveillance of Pardhi Community

Activists and lawyers have raised concerns over the Madhya Pradesh government’s directive to intensify monitoring of nomadic tribes, including the Pardhi community.

About the Pardhi Community

• Historically known as hunters, employed for royal and colonial game hunting.

• Primarily found in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, with smaller populations in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh.

• Formerly classified under the Criminal Tribes Act (1871), denotified in 1952.

• Many Pardhis now engage in agriculture and other livelihoods while maintaining distinct cultural traditions.

Source: NIE

9. Olive Ridley Turtle Population in India - Conservation Update

A 16-year study indicates a steady or growing population of Olive Ridley turtles in India.

Key Facts

• Smallest and most abundant sea turtle species.

• Named for its olive-green carapace.

• Known for mass nesting events (Arribada).

• Found in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable | Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule 1.

Source: TH

10. Border Roads Organisation (BRO) - Avalanche Rescue Operation

BRO successfully rescued 14 workers from an avalanche in Mana, Uttarakhand.

About BRO

• A road construction force under the Ministry of Defence.

• Established in 1960 to develop border infrastructure.

• Active in India and friendly neighboring countries.

• Notable projects include the Atal Tunnel (world’s longest highway tunnel at 9.02 km).

• Operates under the Border Roads Development Board (BRDB).

Source: DH