The Central Water Commission (CWC), a part of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, recently introduced a mobile application known as “FloodWatch”. This innovative app is designed to provide up-to-date, real-time information about floods throughout the nation.
Main Features of FloodWatch
An exciting aspect of FloodWatch is its capacity for real-time flood monitoring. Utilizing the near real-time river flow data gathered from various sources, this app offers improved accuracy in predicting flood situations nationally. In addition, it boasts an Interactive Map feature which allows users to view the CWC Flood Forecast (24-hour forecast) or Flood Advisory (7-day advisory). Users can access this information either by selecting stations on the map directly or using a convenient search box. The integration of advanced technologies like satellite data analysis, mathematical modelling, and real-time monitoring results in accurate flood forecasts.
Department of Telecommunications: Fighting SIM Card Fraud
In an initiative to combat cyber fraud and scam calls related to SIM cards, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India has put forward new measures, including compulsory registration and verification of SIM dealers. This move aims to curb fraudulent activities and enhance mobile security. Over 67,000 SIM dealers have been blacklisted and 52 lakh connections discontinued due to these efforts. Moreover, over 300 First Information Reports (FIR) have been registered.
Sanchar Saathi Portal: Strengthening Mobile Security
Supporting these developments, the rollout of the Sanchar Saathi portal (SSP) solidifies India’s commitment to combating telecommunications-related fraud. Developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) under DoT, the SSP addresses prevalent telecom frauds such as identity theft and banking fraud. The portal has effectively identified over 40 lakh fraudulent connections and disconnected 36 lakhs of them.
Anduri Utsav: Uttarakhand’s Celebrated Butter Festival
Recently, Dayara Bugyal of the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand witnessed the Anduri Utsav, also popularly known as the Butter Festival. Perched at an altitude of 11,000 feet above sea level, Dayara Bugyal is one of the pristine meadows of the state. The festival is commonly referred to as Butter Holi as participants playfully smear each other with butter, milk, and buttermilk. The celebration is a form of expressing gratitude to Lord Krishna, who is believed to have protected the cattle from evil forces while they grazed in the bugyal.
Matti Banana: Geographical Indication Tag for Tamil Nadu’s Native Fruit
Matti banana, native to the Kanniyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, recently achieved recognition with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This unique variety of banana, also known as ‘Baby Banana’, boasts six different types that differ in aspects such as colour, aroma, taste, and texture. The fruit, which is suitable for both baby food and medicinal use, thrives in the specific climate and soil conditions of the Kanniyakumari region.
