Setback in the Satellite Launched by ISRO’s 100th Rocket
Due to a technical malfunction, ISRO reported that it was unable to transfer the NVS-02 satellite, launched aboard its 100th rocket, from one geostationary orbit to another.
The NVS-02 satellite was designed by ISRO under India’s Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) project, which aids in land, air, and sea transportation and defense applications.
Weighing 2,250 kg, this satellite monitors transportation across land, air, and sea while providing precise information during disasters.
ISRO launched this satellite into space on January 29 using the GSLV F15 rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
With this, ISRO achieved a milestone by successfully launching its 100th rocket into space.
Foreign Fish Introduced to Control Mosquitoes
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) reviewed a petition regarding the release of two foreign fish species into water bodies across various states to control mosquitoes.
The two foreign fish species in question are Gambusia affinis (mosquito fish) and Poecilia reticulata (guppy).
The National Biodiversity Authority has classified these two fish species as invasive because they negatively impact native fish species by creating food shortages, severely affecting local aquatic ecosystems.
Experts have stated that mosquito fish are among the world’s 100 worst invasive species. Countries like Australia and New Zealand have already banned them.
However, mosquito fish have been released into water bodies in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh.
Similarly, guppy fish have been released in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, and Odisha.
Plan to Improve Ramsar Sites
Tamil Nadu already has 18 Ramsar sites, and now the Sakkarakottai and Thoothankudi Bird Sanctuaries in Ramanathapuram district have also been declared Ramsar sites.
These sanctuaries serve as crucial breeding and feeding grounds for water birds.
The Tamil Nadu government has been taking various measures to protect and develop Ramsar sites in the state.
In the first phase, an integrated management plan has been prepared for 13 Ramsar sites.
Following this, efforts are underway to develop the newly designated Ramsar sites and the remaining five sites by preparing an integrated management plan.
BCCI Awards
Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar received the BCCI’s C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.
Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was awarded the Best Cricketer of the Year for the previous year.
The Best Woman Cricketer of the Year (2023-24) award went to Smriti Mandhana.
Recently retired star spinner Ravichandran Ashwin received a special award from the BCCI.
Best Debut Cricketer in International Matches – Sarfaraz Khan
Best Debut Woman Cricketer in International Matches – Asha Sobhana
Highest wicket-taker in ODIs – Deepti Sharma (received a medal)
Best Performer in Domestic Cricket – Dhanush Kotian
Best Cricket Association – Mumbai Cricket Association
Best Umpire in Domestic Cricket – Akshay Todtre
Information Highlights
The National Ayurveda Institute, operating under the Central AYUSH Ministry, has introduced natural cosmetic products free from plant-based chemicals.
Chairman of the National Green Tribunal: Justice Prakash Shrivastava
Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT): Ravi Agarwal
The Union Budget announced that the income tax exemption limit under the new tax regime would be raised from ₹7 lakh to ₹12 lakh. Additionally, tax slabs and rates will be revised for individuals earning above ₹12 lakh annually.
A newly opened Murugan temple in Jakarta, Indonesia, is set to be recognized as a golden era of heritage.
President of the UN General Assembly: Dennis Francis
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced the construction of a new ₹10 crore headquarters with modern training facilities for the state’s Scout and Guide Movement.
Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi received the “Silver Elephant Award” for his contribution to the Bharat Scouts and Guides Movement, while Trichy District Collector M. Pradeep Kumar was honored with the “Silver Star Award.”
Every year, February 2 is observed as World Wetlands Day. In line with this, Sakkarakottai and Thoothankudi Bird Sanctuaries in Ramanathapuram district have been newly designated as Ramsar sites.
An international standard water sports academy will be established in Prapanvalasai village, Ramanathapuram district.
A ₹42.90 crore Olympic water sports training center is being set up on the Prapanvalasai coastline in Ramanathapuram district.
Tamil Nadu’s Benedict Rohit won the gold medal in the 50m butterfly category in the National Games swimming competition.
