SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

ISRO will launch Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8)

• The Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) will be launched on August 15 by the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3.

• The mission will focus on designing a microsatellite and developing payload instruments compatible with it.

• Payloads for EOS-8 include the Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), GNSS-R, and a SiC UV Dosimeter.

• The EOIR payload will capture images in the mid-wave and long-wave infrared bands.

• The GNSS-R payload aims to use GNSS-based remote sensing for analyzing ocean surface winds, soil moisture, and inland water bodies.

• EOS-8 will feature advancements in satellite mainframe systems, including the Communication, Baseband and Positioning (CBSP) Package.

• The EOIR will focus on capturing detailed thermal images in both mid-wave and long-wave infrared.

• The GNSS-R payload will demonstrate remote sensing capabilities for various environmental applications.

NATIONAL NEWS

Government to introduce Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha

• The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, will be introduced in the Lok Sabha by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

• This bill proposes 40 amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995.

• One key change involves replacing the term ‘Waqf’ with ‘Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development.’

• The bill aims to reduce the discretionary powers of Waqf Boards.

• It introduces the district collector into the process, granting them authority to resolve disputes between Waqf Boards and the government.

• The amendments will address the issue of Waqf Boards claiming properties without proper verification.

• A separate Board of Auqaf will be established for the Bohras and Aghakhanis under this bill.

• The bill will also create a central portal and database to streamline Waqf registration.

• The proposed changes aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in Waqf management.

AWARDS

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar has been announced by the government.

• The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar recognizes significant contributions in science, technology, and innovation in India.

• The Vigyan Team Award will honor the ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team for their achievements in space research and technology.

• Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will receive the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime contributions to biological sciences.

• The Vigyan Ratna Award celebrates notable lifetime achievements in any field of science or technology.

• The Vigyan Shri Award recipients include Rahul Mukherjee, Sanjay Behari, Adimurthi Adi, Bhim Singh, Anandharamakrishnan C, and Syed Wajh Ahmad Naqvi.

• The Vigyan Yuva Award will be given to Dr. Bappi Paul, Dr. Abhilash, Radha Krishnan Mahalakshmi, Purabi Saikia, Digendranath Swain, Prabhu Rajagopal, and Prashant Kumar.

• The award ceremony is scheduled for August 23, coinciding with National Space Day.

• Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar aims to honor both individual and team achievements in various scientific disciplines.

• These awards celebrate exceptional contributions by scientists, technicians, and inventors across

DEFENCE

The Army conducting exercise 'Parvat Prahar' in Ladakh

• The Indian Army is conducting the 'Parvat Prahar' exercise in Ladakh, focusing on high-altitude operations.

• The exercise, named 'Parvat Prahar' (Mountain Strike), is designed for mountainous and rugged terrains like those in Eastern Ladakh.

• It aims to enhance the readiness and effectiveness of forces in the strategic area close to the India-China border.

• Over a fortnight, soldiers will face simulated real-world warfare scenarios to address unique high-altitude challenges.

• The exercise involves multiple Army units, including infantry, armored, artillery, and support elements.

• The Mountain Strike Corps of the Northern Command, responsible for operations near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), is leading the exercise.

• This training is crucial for maintaining operational preparedness in this critical and challenging region.

• 'Parvat Prahar' ensures comprehensive readiness for high-altitude warfare scenarios.

SPORTS

Novak Djokovic Clinches First Olympic Gold Medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics

• Novak Djokovic won his first Olympic gold medal by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the men's singles final at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

• At 37 years old, Djokovic became the oldest man to win Olympic singles gold since 1908.

• Djokovic now holds a record 24 Grand Slam titles and the most weeks at No. 1 in the ATP rankings.

• With this win, Djokovic joins a select group of players, including Andre Agassi, Rafael Nadal, Steffi Graf, and Serena Williams, who have achieved both a Career Grand Slam and Olympic gold.

• The victory adds to Djokovic’s illustrious career and achievements in tennis.

• Djokovic’s Olympic gold marks a significant milestone in his career, highlighting his longevity and continued dominance in the sport.

• His win at Paris 2024 solidifies his status as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

• Djokovic’s achievement reflects his exceptional performance and enduring presence in the sport of tennis.