Rapid Fire
Rapid Fire Current Affairs
- 05 Oct 2023
- 5 min read
New Study Challenges Existence of Lightning on Venus
A recent study, utilizing data from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s Parker Solar Probe, has raised doubts about the presence of lightning on Venus, a topic debated among scientists for decades.
- The study published in Geophysical Review Letters, suggests that the observed "lightning" near Venus may not be actual lightning but rather disturbances in the planet's weak magnetic fields.
- Previous scientific belief suggested constant lightning on Venus, but signals collected by various instruments over time challenge this notion.
- Another study suggests that previous observations of lightning may have been misinterpreted meteor burn-ups in the atmosphere.
- Venus is known for its inhospitable conditions, including extreme temperatures that makes it the hottest planet in the solar system and atmospheric pressure.
Read more: Active Volcanoes on Venus, Recent Findings about Venus
Military Nursing Service(MNS) celebrates 98th Raising Day
- The MNS recently celebrated its 98th Raising Day on 1st October, 2023. As one of the oldest and most distinguished all-women services in the Armed Forces, MNS has made significant contributions to healthcare in India.
- The MNS originated during the pre-independence colonial era when British and Indian soldiers served in the British Army. In 1888, the Indian Army Nursing Services (IANS) was formally established, marking the start of military nursing in India.
- During World War I and II, officers of IANS played a crucial role in providing medical care to wounded soldiers.
- On October 1st October 1926, the Permanent Nursing Service was raised in the Indian Army and designated as the Indian Military Nursing Service.
- Post-Independence, MNS was established as part of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS).
National Turmeric Board
Recently, the Government of India has established the National Turmeric Board. As India is the world's largest producer (75% of global turmeric production), consumer, and exporter of turmeric, this move aims to enhance the development and expansion of the turmeric industry within the country.
- The Board will consist of a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, members from key government departments including the Ministry of AYUSH, Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry of the Union Government, along with rotating senior State Government representatives from three states.
- The Board is expected to help develop and grow the spice market in India, which controls over 62% share of the turmeric world trade.
- The largest producing states of Turmeric are Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
- With its strategic approach, it aspires to propel turmeric exports to a staggering USD 1 Billion by 2030, ultimately benefiting both growers and consumers.
Read more: Spices Sector in India
New Fish Species Discovered in Nagaland's Milak River
Recently, researchers have identified a previously unknown fish species, Badis limaakumi, in Nagaland's Milak River.
- This newfound species, named after Limaakum, a zoology professor at Fazl Ali College in Nagaland, distinguishes itself with a unique opercular blotch near its opercular spine.
- The absence of spots on its sides and cleithrum, along with fewer lateral line scales, further sets it apart.
- Belonging to the Badidae or Badis family, a group of freshwater fish often found in slow or moderately flowing streams, this fish is also a culinary delight in various regions across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, and Myanmar.
- Fish from the Badis family are also known as chameleon fish for their ability to change colour. This helps them blend with the surroundings when under stress.
