Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 rocket successfully launched, placing payloads into orbit, a significant achievement for India's private space industry.
Key points
- Vikram-1 is India's first private sector rocket to reach orbit.
- The launch was conducted from ISRO's Sriharikota facility.
- The rocket utilized a 3D-printed engine, showcasing advanced manufacturing techniques.
- This achievement positions India alongside the US and China in private orbital launch capabilities.
Background & context
India has a long-standing space program led by ISRO, but this launch signifies the burgeoning capability of private Indian companies in the space sector, often referred to as 'NewSpace'. The Vikram series of rockets are developed by Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based startup.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Vikram-1 successfully placed payloads into an orbit approximately 450 km above the Earth.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Science and Technology - Developments in Science and Technology.
Why in news?
Several groups are protesting the proposal to include Kambala, a traditional buffalo race, in the Mysuru Dasara festivities, citing incompatibility with the heritage of the festival.
Key points
- A Joint Action Committee comprising various organizations opposes Kambala's inclusion in Mysuru Dasara.
- Protesters argue Kambala, while a respected sport in Tulu Nadu, doesn't align with Mysuru Dasara's cultural and religious significance.
- The committee has passed six resolutions, including urging the government to drop the proposed event and focus on existing Dasara programs.
- Demands also include transparency in administration, better recognition for local arts, and farmer assistance.
Background & context
Mysuru Dasara is a renowned cultural and religious festival in Karnataka, celebrated for its grandeur. Kambala is a traditional slush track buffalo race primarily held in the coastal districts of Karnataka, known as Tulu Nadu.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Kambala is a traditional buffalo race from the Tulu Nadu region of Karnataka.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Art and Culture - Festivals of India; GS Paper II: Social Justice - Issues related to cultural practices.
Why in news?
Activist Sonam Wangchuk was removed from the Jantar Mantar protest site by Delhi Police and taken to hospital, leading to accusations from protesters and opposition parties of a crackdown on peaceful dissent.
Key points
- Sonam Wangchuk was on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
- Delhi Police escorted him to Safdarjung Hospital for 'essential medical care' following High Court orders.
- Protesters and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) alleged police crackdown and lack of information about Wangchuk's whereabouts.
- The Congress criticized the government, calling the incident a 'blot' on democracy and comparing it to other suppressed protests.
Background & context
Jantar Mantar in Delhi is a historic site often used for public protests. Sonam Wangchuk is an engineer, inventor, and education reformist known for his activism, particularly concerning the Himalayas and environmental issues. The 'Hunger Strike for Ladakh' was to demand constitutional safeguards for the region.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Sonam Wangchuk is known for his activism related to environmental protection and the region of Ladakh.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Fundamental Rights (Right to Protest), Civil Liberties, Role of Civil Services.