Author: Bhakti Narayanan

The Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system was effectively tested by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated along the coast of Odisha. The SMART system, a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system, aims to enhance the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities beyond conventional ranges. Comprising advanced sub-systems like a two-stage solid propulsion system and precision inertial navigation system, SMART carries an advanced lightweight torpedo payload released via a parachute-based system. Launched from a ground mobile launcher, the test validated various state-of-the-art mechanisms such as symmetric separation and velocity control. Defence Minister…

A new AI Task Force initiated by the US-India Business Council (USIBC) sees Bala Subramanian (UPS), Akash Shah (BNY Mellon), and Inderpreet Sawhney (Infosys) joining to foster collaboration and innovation. The task force aims to shape AI policy and innovation through cross-sector collaboration, as discussed in its inaugural virtual meeting on April 25. The USIBC’s objective is to align U.S. and Indian leadership in the AI ecosystem, promoting common AI concepts and principles and ensuring industry competitiveness. The event gathered leaders from various sectors like logistics, semiconductor design, biotechnology, and financial services to explore cooperation and synergy. USIBC President Atul…

In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema, Katrina Kaif, a prominent figure in the industry, is adapting to the changing trends. The year 2023 witnessed a shift, with the top 10 Indian films dominated by star-driven blockbusters, including Kaif’s involvement in “Tiger 3,” a Bollywood action spectacle alongside Salman Khan. However, 2024 marked a paradigm change, with five of the top 10 films prioritizing strong storytelling over grandeur, known locally as “content films.” While Hindi-language Bollywood remains globally visible, it often overshadows other regional industries, such as Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada. Kaif’s journey in 2024 began with the critically acclaimed…

Aditya Kunjapur, an Indian American biomolecular engineer, has been awarded the 2024 BioInnovation Institute & Science Prize for Innovation for his groundbreaking research aimed at improving the effectiveness of bacterial vaccines. This prestigious prize recognizes scientists who excel in bridging the gap between life sciences and entrepreneurship. Kunjapur’s research addresses the challenge of bacterial proteins evading the body’s immune response, particularly in diseases like staph infections. His team developed a novel strategy to enhance the visibility of these proteins to the immune system by incorporating a key amino acid into bacterial proteins. The innovative approach devised by Kunjapur and his…

Google announced the commencement of applications for the ‘Startups Accelerator: AI First’ program in India, offering three months of equity-free support to startups addressing diverse industry challenges through artificial intelligence (AI) applications. In a blog post, the tech giant highlighted the program as part of its global initiative, providing early-stage startups leveraging AI, machine learning (ML), and Cloud technology with essential tools to tackle pressing global issues. Selected startups will benefit from mentorship focused on developing AI solutions centered on human needs and ethical considerations, alongside gaining access to Google’s extensive mentor network. Additionally, participants will undergo training in design,…

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to conduct the second test flight of the uncrewed Gaganyaan mission on April 24, marking another significant stride in space exploration, as stated by ISRO Chairman S Somanath during an Astronautical Society of India (ASI) event in Ahmedabad. Scheduled for April 24, the airdrop test is part of the Gaganyaan project, with two more uncrewed missions slated for next year and a manned mission potentially by the end of the following year, provided all goes smoothly, as announced by Somanath on April 17. The Gaganyaan initiative aims to showcase India’s capability in…

New research suggests that diabetes tests commonly used in the UK could be providing inaccurate results for tens of thousands of South Asian individuals, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses. This study identified a genetic variation prevalent among South Asians, affecting the outcomes of a diabetes test commonly used for type 2 diabetes in the UK. The HbA1c test, measuring average blood sugar levels, may yield falsely lower results in South Asian individuals with this genetic variation, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, as indicated by the research. Given the significant South Asian population affected by diabetes and prediabetes in England, with…

Parineeti Chopra’s portrayal of Amarjot Kaur in Imtiaz Ali’s “Amar Singh Chamkila” has garnered significant praise. Reflecting on her career journey, she admitted to making errors and expressed a desire not to be unfairly criticized for them. In an interview with India Today, Parineeti acknowledged being influenced by misguided advice, leading her to choose projects that were commercially viable but not necessarily the best fit for her. She lamented not trusting her instincts and succumbing to external pressures, which resulted in missteps. Despite the influence of industry trends and advice from those around her, Parineeti recognized the need to reclaim…

Nikki Haley assumes the Walter P. Stern Chair at the Hudson Institute, a conservative think tank in Washington, D.C. John P. Walters, the President and CEO of the institute, lauds Haley’s leadership in global and domestic affairs, praising her commitment to freedom and American interests. Following her withdrawal from the Republican primary race after a significant defeat by ex-president Donald Trump on Super Tuesday, Haley transitions to her new role. Despite her moderate campaign strategy, Haley garnered support across various voter demographics. During her tenure as the US Ambassador to the UN under the Trump administration, Haley gained prominence for…

The most recent update from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry indicates that India’s total export of goods and services in March 2024 stands at USD 70.21 Billion. This figure represents a decline of (-) 3.01% compared to March 2023. Similarly, the overall import for March 2024 stands at USD 73.12 Billion, indicating a negative growth rate of (-) 6.11% over March 2023. For the fiscal year 2023-24 (April-March), India’s combined exports are estimated at USD 776.68 Billion, showing a marginal positive growth rate of 0.04% over the previous fiscal year. However, imports for the same period are estimated at…