Uttar Pradesh

• 20 Nov 2024

Excavation to Uncover Buddha's Relics

Why in News?

Recently, the Union Minister of State for Finance inaugurated an archaeological excavation at Ramgram in Maharajganj district of Uttar Pradesh.

• The project, spearheaded by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), seeks to uncover evidence of Lord Buddha's eighth relic, which is believed to be buried at the site.

Key Points

• Historical and Spiritual Significance:
  • The site is among the eight places where Lord Buddha's relics were enshrined, holding immense importance in Buddhist traditions.
  • It is situated within the Sohgibarwa Wildlife Division and is historically associated with the ancient Kolia kingdom.
    • Kolia was an ancient Indo-Aryan clan of north-eastern South Asia whose existence is attested during the Iron Age.
• Potential for Regional Development:
  • The excavation is expected to transform the location into a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage site.
  • This development is anticipated to boost tourism and stimulate economic growth in the region.
• Focus on Global Recognition:
  • The project aims to integrate the site into the global Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.
  • Local authorities foresee increased visits from international pilgrims and scholars, enhancing the region's cultural profile.

Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary

• About:
  • It is situated in the Maharajganj district of Uttar Pradesh.
  • In the north, the Sanctuary shares the international boundary with Nepal, and in the east shares the border with Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
  • It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in June 1987.
• Drainage:
  • It is drained by the great Gandak, the little Gandak, Pyas and Rohin rivers.
• Flora:
  • Nearly 75% of the area consists of Sal forest, and other humid areas are covered with Jaamun, Gutal, Semal, KhairTrees, etc.
  • The lower region of the sanctuary, which is water logged during rains, consists of Grasslands and patches of Cane forests.
• Fauna:
  • It is inhabited by a variety of animals which mainly includes Leopard, Tiger, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Langur, Deer, Blue Bull, Wild boar, Porcupine etc.

27th IEEE WPMC 2024

Why in News?

Recently, India hosted the 27^th IEEE International Symposium on Wireless Personal Multimedia Communications (WPMC) 2024 in Greater Noida.

• Indian officials highlighted the country’s rapid strides in telecommunication innovation, and transitioning from 5G deployment to envisioning the future of 6G technology.

Key Points

• Objective and Theme:
  • It provides a platform for researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss advancements in wireless communications.
  • The theme, “Secure 6G – AI Nexus: Where Technology Meets Humanity,” focuses on the intersection of 6G and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Venue:
  • The event was hosted at Sharda University and has brought together experts and thought leaders from various countries.
• India's Role in Wireless Communication:
  • An expert highlighted India's growing innovation ecosystem and its potential to contribute significantly to the global telecommunications sector.
  • India is expected to file approximately 10 patents related to 6G technology soon, further enhancing its economic and technological stature.
• Vision for 6G Technology:
  • The government envisions achieving unprecedented speeds of up to 1 terabit per second with ultra-low latency, marking a transformative step in global connectivity and socio-economic development.
  • This initiative aligns with national goals to position India as a global leader in the telecommunications sector.
• Transformative Potential of 6G:
  • Experts emphasized the potential of 6G to enable portable devices with advanced capabilities, focusing on high-frequency utilization and minimal latency.
  • The technology is expected to revolutionize rural ecosystems by facilitating remote healthcare, education, and agriculture, aligning with India's mission to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth.

India’s initiative for providing safer and better telecom services:

• Telecommunication Act, 2023
• Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
• National Cyber Security Strategy
• Bharat 6G Alliance
• BharatNet Project