Current Affairs - Technology

BIRSA 101 is India’s first fully indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy developed to treat Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), marking a major milestone in the nation’s genomic medicine capabilities. Launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh and dedicated to Birsa Munda on his 150th anniversary, the therapy represents a significant step toward India’s mission to eliminate SCD. It is designed as a low-cost alternative to global treatments that currently cost ₹20–25 crore, making advanced gene therapy accessible to a wider population. This innovation strengthens public health efforts while boosting India’s position in advanced biomedical research and healthcare technology.

ColoNoX is a nitric-oxide-releasing wound dressing introduced by the Department of Atomic Energy through BARC to address diabetic foot ulcers, a condition that often requires advanced therapeutic solutions due to slow healing and high infection risk. This innovation marks a major step in integrating nuclear research with biomedical applications, enabling controlled nitric oxide release that supports antimicrobial action, improved blood flow, and enhanced tissue repair. Its development strengthens India’s medical technology capabilities and demonstrates the potential of cross-disciplinary research in creating effective healthcare interventions for chronic and complex wounds.

Chandrayaan-4, India’s first lunar sample-return mission, is scheduled for launch in 2028 as part of ISRO’s expanded roadmap for deep space exploration. The mission is expected to collect and bring back lunar soil and rock samples, placing India among the few nations capable of executing such a technically advanced operation. The timeline aligns with ISRO’s broader goals, which include tripling spacecraft production, increasing launch frequency, advancing human spaceflight through the Gaganyaan program, and establishing the initial module of an Indian Space Station by 2028. These efforts collectively strengthen India’s scientific capabilities and elevate its position in the global space sector.

India has reached the 6th position globally in patent filings, marking a major leap in its innovation journey. With over 64,000 patent applications submitted—more than half by resident innovators—the country is strengthening its intellectual property ecosystem. This rise reflects the impact of a vibrant start-up culture, supportive government policies, and increased emphasis on applied sciences and skill development. The improvement in India’s rank on the Global Innovation Index, from 81st to 38th, further reinforces this upward trajectory. Collectively, these achievements demonstrate India’s transition from being primarily a consumer of technology to an emerging global creator and contributor in research, innovation and IP generation.

The Indian Railways has introduced an advanced AI-powered system called DRISHTI to enhance the safety and monitoring of freight operations. This system uses real-time surveillance supported by computer vision technology to keep track of the locking status of wagon doors, ensuring better security and operational efficiency. DRISHTI was created through collaborative innovation between the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and IIT Guwahati – TIDF. By integrating artificial intelligence with railway logistics, the system aims to reduce human error, improve monitoring accuracy, and offer a proactive approach to safeguarding freight movement across the network.