Why in the News?

The Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways recently launched the dredging project on National Waterways 44 in the Ichamati River of West Bengal.

About the Ichamati River:

• The Ichamati River crosses both India and Bangladesh.
• It serves as a natural boundary between the two nations India and Bangladesh.
• It has three main sections.
• The longest part originates from the Mathabhanga River, a branch of the Padma River, flowing for 208 kilometers before merging with the Kalindi River near Hasnabad in North 24 Parganas and Debhata in the Satkhira District of Bangladesh.
• Additionally, the Ichhamati River and its tributaries together create a large oxbow lake complex in the North 24-Paraganas district, near Bangaon.

Why in the News?

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science's Materials Research Centre (MRC) have recently created a novel enzyme mimic known as NanoPtA.

About NanoPtA:

• The research team at the Materials Research Centre (MRC), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), has created a unique platinum-based nanozyme called NanoPtA.
• This nanozyme can be turned into a powder for use in industries.                                                                                                                                                                                                        
• When NanoPtA encounters wastewater, the molecule's benzene rings and long alkyl chains engage in multiple non-covalent interactions.
• Individual NanoPtA molecules link together to form tape-like structures that emit light, which is the source of its oxidizing capability.
• In the presence of sunlight, this nanozyme can break down pollutants in wastewater, reducing its toxicity.
• Remarkably, the nanozyme can rapidly degrade even small amounts of common contaminants like phenols and dyes (micromolar levels) within ten minutes when exposed to sunlight.
• The researchers also observed that the NanoPtA complex remained stable for up to 75 days at room temperature.

Applications:

• Besides wastewater treatment, this nanozyme could find applications in healthcare and serve as a valuable diagnostic tool for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.

Why in the News?

An international team of scientists has recently published a paper that explains how the prototype BlueWalker 3 satellite has affected the field of astronomy.

About the BlueWalker 3 satellite:

• The BlueWalker 3 satellite is a prototype that's part of a constellation owned by AST SpaceMobile.
• Launched in September 2022, it's notable for being one of the brightest objects in the night sky, even outshining the brightest stars.
• This satellite represents the largest-ever commercial communications array in low-Earth orbit, specifically designed to directly communicate with cellular devices at 5G speeds using 3GPP standard frequencies.
• Interestingly, the satellite operates at wavelengths close to those observed by radio telescopes, which could potentially interfere with radio astronomy.

Why in the News?

Arunachal Pradesh, a northeastern state, achieved a noteworthy milestone as the distinctive and culturally important yak milk product known as 'Yak Churpi' has received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

About 'Yak Churpi':

• Yak Churpi is a special dairy product crafted from the milk of the indigenous Arunachali yak breed.
• It's produced by Brokpas, tribal yak herders who migrate with their yaks to higher altitudes (above 10,000 ft) during summers and return to mid-altitude mountainous areas in winters.
• These exceptional yaks are primarily found in the West Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Churpi is a naturally fermented dairy item with a high protein content.
• It plays a vital role in the diets of tribal communities living in the cold, mountainous regions of the state.
• It's often used as a vegetable substitute and is a common ingredient in vegetable and meat dishes, frequently enjoyed with rice.
• The GI tag for Yak Churpi has significant benefits, including the conservation of yaks and the improvement of the socio-economic status of yak herders.
• Arunachali yaks are unique in terms of their body characteristics, size, strain, and weight, making them the only registered yak breed in India.

Why in the News?

The Government of India recently announced the formation of the National Turmeric Board.

About the National Turmeric Board:

• The National Turmeric Board has a specific focus on developing and expanding turmeric and its products in India.
• It's especially dedicated to helping turmeric growers improve their skills and capabilities to add more value to their products.
• The Board also works to ensure high-quality and safe turmeric products.
• The composition of the Board includes a Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, members from various government departments such as AYUSH, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry, as well as senior representatives from three states (on a rotational basis).
• Additionally, it includes representatives from national/state research institutions, turmeric farmers, and exporters.
• The Department of Commerce appoints a Secretary for the Board, and this department provides funds and infrastructure support.
• The NTB's main responsibilities include boosting demand, production, research, market connections, and exports related to turmeric.