Current Affairs - Technology

Telangana has introduced the AI Rising Grand Challenge as an innovative initiative to solve governance-related challenges through artificial intelligence. This effort aims to unify datasets across various government departments to facilitate the testing and implementation of AI-driven solutions. Supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the state’s IT Department, the challenge encourages collaboration among startups, academic institutions, and government bodies. Selected winners for each targeted sector—such as education, health, and transport—will receive funding of ₹15 lakh to deploy pilot AI projects. The initiative highlights Telangana’s proactive stance in integrating cutting-edge technology into governance.

Japan has achieved a global first by constructing a 3D-printed train station in Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture. Built by West Japan Railway Company in collaboration with Serendix, the Hatsushima Station was assembled overnight in just under six hours using prefabricated, reinforced concrete components. This project exemplifies cutting-edge construction techniques aimed at addressing challenges such as workforce shortages and ageing infrastructure. It represents a cost-effective and time-saving solution for future public works, especially in rural areas. The successful implementation of this model opens up new possibilities for scalable, rapid infrastructure development using 3D printing technology.

Bangladesh officially joined the Artemis Accords on April 8, 2025, becoming the 54th nation to commit to safe, transparent, and sustainable space exploration. This move positions Bangladesh as an emerging contributor to global space initiatives, including NASA’s Artemis program which aims to return humans to the Moon and pave the way for future missions to Mars. The signing ceremony in Dhaka featured key officials such as Ashraf Uddin and Muhammad Yunus, along with NASA Acting Administrator Janet Petro. The agreement reaffirms Bangladesh’s dedication to open and peaceful use of outer space in alignment with international treaties and collaboration.

The 3rd AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) consultation, organized by MeitY and UNESCO, is being held in Hyderabad on April 8, 2025. The event is a significant platform to discuss AI governance and readiness, aligning with India’s strategic push through the IndiaAI Mission. It features expert-led panel discussions and interactive breakout sessions covering crucial areas such as infrastructure, workforce, governance frameworks, and real-world AI applications. Choosing Hyderabad as the host city reflects its growing importance as a tech hub and its capacity to support high-level global discussions on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

The Fram2 mission is notable for being the first human spaceflight to follow a polar orbit, a path that takes the spacecraft over both the North and South Poles. Unlike equatorial orbits, which move from west to east, polar orbits travel in a north-south direction. This allows the spacecraft to observe nearly the entire surface of Earth as the planet rotates beneath it. Polar orbits are commonly used for Earth observation satellites due to their global coverage. Fram2's use of this trajectory enables unique data collection and scientific research, especially regarding human physiology in space away from the ISS environment.