General Awareness

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY - February 2019

Feb 2019

Nov 03, 2026

1st International Maize Conference highlights maize research priorities

The 1st International Maize Conference 2026 began in Hyderabad on 2 November and runs through 4 November. Themed Maize Revolution for Food, Feed, Fodder, Fuel and Sustainability in the Changing World (M4FS), it brings scientists, policymakers and industry players to discuss high‑yield varieties, nutrition, mechanisation and seed systems. Speakers noted India’s maize output around 55 million tonnes, with a goal to reach 75 million tonnes in the next decade through better management and productivity gains. The meeting also emphasised farmer‑centric research and a five‑fold framework (Food, Feed, Fodder, Fuel, Farmers) to align research with field needs.

Conference runs 2–4 November 2026 in Hyderabad.
Theme M4FS focuses on maize productivity and sustainability.
India’s maize production about 55 million tonnes; target 75 million.
Advocates farmer‑centric research and stronger seed systems.
Call for cross‑sector collaboration among researchers and industry.

Nov 02, 2026

IIT Kanpur develops bamboo-based vibration barriers

Researchers at IIT Kanpur have developed a bamboo-based vibration barrier technology titled A Passive Vibration Screening Arrangement with Bamboo In-filled Wave Barriers. The system uses underground bamboo-filled barriers to dampen ground-borne vibrations from traffic, construction, and industry, protecting nearby buildings and infrastructure. Created by Priyanka Ghosh and Sreyashrao Surapreddi of the Civil Engineering Department, the method emphasizes environmental sustainability and low maintenance. Tests show significant attenuation of vibration transmission in dense urban corridors, with potential adoption in cities seeking quieter, safer environments and reduced structural fatigue for sensitive facilities.

Technology name: Bamboo In-filled Wave Barriers.
Developed by IIT Kanpur; Priyanka Ghosh and Sreyashrao Surapreddi.
Purpose: reduce ground-borne vibrations from urban activities.
Material: bamboo; emphasis on eco-friendliness and low maintenance.
Impact: potential adoption to protect buildings and infrastructure.

Oct 30, 2026

ISRO GSLV-F18 Launch with NVS-03 Satellite

On 31 October 2026, ISRO successfully launched the GSLV-F18 rocket carrying the NVS-03 satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The mission weighed about 2,232 kilograms and included an indigenous atomic clock and enhanced L1 navigation signals to strengthen India's NavIC system. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists and engineers, emphasising the mission's role in advancing self‑reliance in space technology and improving navigation services for civil and strategic users. The NVS‑03 satellite expands the NavIC constellation, improving regional coverage and signal robustness. Analysts see the launch as a milestone for India's space programme amid growing domestic demand for space‑enabled services.

GSLV-F18 launch carried NVS-03 on 31 October 2026
Satellite weight ~2,232 kg; indigenous atomic clock
Enhanced L1 signals to strengthen NavIC
PM Modi congratulated ISRO; emphasis on self‑reliance
NVS-03 expands NavIC constellation and regional coverage

Oct 29, 2026

SBI Inaugurates CyRIS Cybersecurity Centre in Mumbai

On 26 October 2026, the State Bank of India inaugurated CyRIS, its Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, in Mumbai. The centre was inaugurated by Department of Financial Services Secretary Sanjay Lohiya in the presence of SBI Chairman C. S. Setty. CyRIS operates on three pillars—THINK, INNOVATE and DEFEND—and will focus on cyber threat intelligence, digital forensics, malware analysis, ethical hacking, artificial intelligence security, and quantum-safe technologies. The centre aims to strengthen banking cyber resilience, protect customer data, and advance security capabilities through research, industry partnerships, and staff training. It signals a sustained push to bolster domestic cyber infrastructure.

CyRIS Centre of Excellence inaugurated 26 Oct 2026
Three pillars: THINK, INNOVATE, DEFEND
Focus areas: threat intelligence, forensics, malware analysis
Includes AI security and quantum-safe technology
Aims to strengthen banking cyber resilience in India

Oct 28, 2026

PM Modi Inaugurates ESTIC 2026 in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 in New Delhi on 27 October 2026. The three‑day event is at Bharat Mandapam and involves scientists, industry leaders and policymakers. ESTIC covers twelve thematic areas, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and space science. The conclave aims to strengthen scientific research, promote innovation and boost industry‑academia collaboration to accelerate India’s development. Officials say ESTIC supports the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by turning ideas into products and creating new jobs. Delegates discussed funding, startups and international partnerships, with emphasis on inclusive growth and sustainable technology. Must‑know items from the last 48 hours are noted below.

ESTIC 2026 inaugurated on 27 October 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
Twelve thematic areas include AI, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and space science.
Aims to strengthen research, innovation and industry‑academia collaboration.
Supports Viksit Bharat 2047 through product development and job creation.
Last 48 hours must‑know: 26 Oct 2026 Ballon d'Or Socrates Award won by Bukayo Saka; 26 Oct 2026 Indian contingent announced for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games; 27 Oct ESTIC inauguration.

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