News In Shorts: 2024

Apache Attack Helicopter

About Apache Attack Helicopter

It is a Multi-Role Combat Helicopter

• Country of Origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Boeing
• Also Known As: Apache Guardian

Key Features:

• New integrated infrared laser: Enables easier target designation and improved infrared imagery.
• Open systems architecture: Allows for easy integration of the latest technology

Certified Security Professional for Artificial Intelligence (CSPAI) Program

About CSPAI program:

• It is the first-ever American National Standards Institute’s National Accreditation Board (ANAB) approved AI security certification programme.
• Skill Upgradation: The CSPAI program equips security professionals with the skills needed to effectively integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into business applications while adhering to sustainable practices.
• Cyber Nalanda Initiative Alignment: The CSPAI program aligns with SISA’s Cyber Nalanda initiative to address future cybersecurity challenges.
  • Cyber Nalanda is a cutting-edge cyber security research and development (R&D) centre in India, established by SISA, a global cybersecurity solutions firm. 

About CERT-In:  The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has been designated to serve as National agency for incident response under Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000. 

• Operates under: CERT-In is a Government organisation under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. 
• Functions: CERT-In operates 24×7 incident response Help Desk for providing timely response to reported cyber security incidents. 
  • It provides Incident Prevention and Response services as well as Security Quality Management Services.

About SISA: SISA is a global cybersecurity solutions provider specialising in forensics-driven security in the Financial Services Industry.

Exercise Eastern Bridge-7 

About Exercise Eastern Bridge VII 

• It is a joint military exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO).
• Objective
  • Enhance military cooperation between India and Oman.
  • Improve  coordination, and increase tactical and operational skills between the two air forces.
• Significance:
  • High regional Peace and Security in both countries. 
  • Increased Readiness to handle future challenges
  • Strengthened Partnership  between India and Oman through joint briefings and cultural exchanges.

Nagar Van Yojana (NVY)

About Nagar Van Yojana (NVY):

• Launched By: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India in 2020.
• Objective: To create Nagar Vans (urban forests) and Nagar Vatikas in urban and peri-urban areas to enhance urban greenery, improve biodiversity, and promote ecological balance.
• Target: Develop 1000 Nagar Vans by 2027.

Key Objectives:

• Enhance Tree Cover: Increase trees outside forest areas and enhance urban green cover.
• Improve Quality of Life: Provide recreational spaces, improve air quality, reduce urban heat islands, and increase biodiversity in cities.
• Promote Biodiversity Conservation: Plant native species to attract wildlife and promote ecological balance.
• Address Environmental Issues: Tackle air pollution, habitat degradation, and urban heat islands.
• Climate Resilience: Make cities climate-resilient by providing green spaces that help in climate adaptation.

Features:

• Nagar Van Areas: Cover urban and peri-urban areas with a size range of 10-50 hectares.
• Public Engagement: Citizens, students, and other stakeholders are encouraged to participate in tree planting, management, and maintenance of these green spaces.
• Components: Includes Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans, Butterfly Conservatories, Herbal Gardens, and Matri Van (under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam).
• Minimum Tree Cover: At least two-thirds of the area must be under tree cover.
• Community Participation: Emphasis on public involvement through tree planting, educational programs, and sustainable management.

Funding:

• Source: CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority) Fund.
• Financial Assistance: Rs. 4 lakh per hectare for the creation and maintenance of urban forests.