Current Affairs - Technology

The Indian Space Research Organisation carried out the sea level hot test of the CE20 Cryogenic Engine at its Propulsion Complex located in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test was conducted at an enhanced thrust level of 22 tonnes, which is crucial for improving the payload capacity of future LVM3 missions. The successful 165-second test demonstrated the engine’s ability to withstand extreme thermal and mechanical conditions. Advanced systems such as a nozzle protection system and multi-element igniter were used, showcasing India’s growing technological capabilities in cryogenic propulsion systems and space exploration.

Perplexity launched the ‘Personal Computer’ AI agent, an advanced digital assistant designed to automate everyday productivity tasks. The system operates on a Mac mini and functions as a digital proxy that can research topics, draft emails, prepare daily briefings, and manage files across different applications and devices. It combines local system operations with cloud-based reasoning to handle complex user requests efficiently. The platform also integrates multiple large language models such as Claude, Gemini, and Grok, allowing them to collaborate during task execution. With built-in security safeguards and continuous operation, the AI agent aims to improve productivity by automating routine digital activities.

Honeywell partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay to establish the IITB-Honeywell Centre of Excellence for Future Skills & Innovation at the institute’s Powai campus. The centre is fully funded by the Honeywell Hometown Solutions India Foundation and focuses on advancing sustainability skills and innovation among students. The initiative aims to train more than 100,000 students by 2030 through specialised programs, research support, and advanced laboratory infrastructure. It will benefit undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students from across India. The centre will also offer certificate-based programs, hands-on projects, and research grants to address real-world sustainability challenges.

Razorpay introduced an artificial intelligence platform known as Agent Studio to transform how businesses manage payment infrastructure. The platform is built on Anthropic’s Claude Agent SDK and enables companies to automate several payment-related operations using AI agents. These agents can intervene when customers abandon purchases, initiate conversations to encourage payment completion, and integrate with platforms like Shopify, Shiprocket, and WhatsApp to access customer and transaction data. The system also supports a no-code tool that allows businesses to create custom AI agents by defining tasks in plain language. Additionally, Razorpay launched an Agentic Experience Platform that allows payment operations to be handled using natural-language commands.

Andhra Pradesh will host the world’s first autonomous maritime shipbuilding and systems centre near the Juvvaladinne fishing harbour on India’s eastern coast. The project is being developed by Sagar Defence Engineering with support from the state government. Spread across about 29.58 acres in the first phase, the facility will include autonomous shipbuilding infrastructure, testing facilities, a research and development centre, and a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) unit. The centre will focus on developing Unmanned Surface Vessels and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles for defence, surveillance, security, and research purposes, while also benefiting the local fishing community through training and technical support.