Current Affairs - Technology

Sarla Aviation, a Bengaluru-based aerospace startup, unveiled ‘Shunya,’ India’s first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi. Designed for short trips of 20-30 km, it can carry six passengers at speeds up to 250 km/h. This prototype aims to address urban congestion and provide a sustainable alternative to ground transportation. Sarla Aviation also plans to launch ‘Shunya’ in Bengaluru by 2028, with future expansions to cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. Additionally, they have partnered with Sona SPEED to manufacture essential components for the eVTOL.

CheQ, a company founded by former Flipkart executive Aditya Soni, has launched Wisor, India’s first AI-powered credit card expert. Wisor offers personalized insights, smart spend analysis, and reward optimization to simplify credit card management for users. By providing enhanced clarity and saving time, Wisor is designed to revolutionize how people handle their credit cards. Currently in its beta phase, Wisor is part of CheQ’s innovative expansion, which already serves a user base of over 3 million.

Telangana has signed MoUs for major investments in the energy and space sectors. The state partnered with Skyroot Aerospace to establish a ₹500 crore private rocket manufacturing unit, strengthening Hyderabad's position as a global hub for private space activity. Additionally, MEIL will invest ₹13,000 crore in three energy projects, including a 2,160 MW pumped storage plant. These initiatives are expected to generate approximately 4,000 jobs, showcasing Telangana's commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth.

The first astronomical observatory in Eastern India was inaugurated atop Panchet Hill in the Garpanchkot area of Purulia district, West Bengal. This observatory, named after the renowned physicist Satyendra Nath Bose, is a significant milestone in advancing astronomical research in the region. It is the sixth astronomical observatory in India, contributing to the country's efforts in promoting research in astronomy, astrophysics, and atmospheric sciences. The observatory is managed by the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences in collaboration with Sidhu Kanu Birsa University.

Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its New Glenn rocket on its maiden test flight. The launch took place at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and marked a significant milestone for the company. Named after John Glenn, the rocket was designed to compete in the growing space exploration industry, joining players like SpaceX and NASA. The mission carried a prototype satellite into orbit, marking a key achievement for Blue Origin’s future space ventures.