One of the foremost accomplishments of the Indian Navy is the successful development and testing of Varunastra, an indigenous heavyweight torpedo. This engineering marvel was brought to life by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), followed by its manufacturing at Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL).
In another remarkable feat, the AIIMS successfully defended a potential malware attack on its e-Hospital services. And yet another noteworthy event involved the Indian President commemorating 150 years of Indian arrival in Suriname. Simultaneously, an emerging threat looms as Cyclone “Biporjoy” gains intensity in the Arabian Sea.
The Indigenous Heavyweight Torpedo: Varunastra
The Varunastra, designed and developed indigenously, has proven its effectiveness through successful live tests. It encompasses state-of-the-art features including low drift navigational systems, acoustic homing, and autonomous guidance algorithms. Over the course of the trials, Varunastra demonstrated outstanding capabilities by accurately hitting an undersea target, thereby fortifying its position as the primary anti-submarine torpedo for naval warships.
With superior specifications such as a maximum speed of 40 knots and a maximum operating depth of 600 meters, Varunastra stands set to replace older models currently outfitted on naval warships capable of firing heavyweight torpedoes. Noteworthy is its long-range functionality coupled with multi-maneuvering features, making it highly efficient in locating and targeting covert underwater threats.
AIIMS Defends Against Malware Attack on e-Hospital Services
AIIMS, the leading health institution in India, triumphed over a potential malware attack targeted at its e-Hospital services. This type of harmful computer program can disrupt operations and gain unauthorized access to computers, networks, and devices.
The defense against this attack underscores the importance of robust security measures like antivirus software, strong passwords, ongoing updates, and prudent online behavior. All these strategies together can help prevent damaging outcomes such as data loss, financial devastation, privacy infringement, and system vulnerabilities.
150th Anniversary of Indian Arrival in Suriname
Marking a significant milestone in history, the Indian President and his Surinamese counterpart celebrated the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Suriname. The very first group of Indians reached Suriname on Lalla Rookh in 1873.
During the commemoration, the Indian President highlighted Suriname’s multicultural society, its integration of diverse communities, and its promotion of unity and inclusiveness. He also announced plans to broaden the eligibility for the OCI Card. Additionally, he was bestowed with Suriname’s highest civilian honor, “Grand Order of the Chain of the Yellow Star”, emphasizing the strength of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Cyclone “Biporjoy”: A Growing Threat
The Arabian Sea is under the threat of Cyclonic Storm “Biporjoy”, which is rapidly intensifying. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that it will grow into a severe cyclonic storm by June 8, 2023, with wind speeds of up to 115-125 kmph and gusts reaching 140 kmph.
While the formation of Cyclone “Biporjoy” in June is unusual, scientists attribute it to rising sea surface temperatures due to climate change. These elevated temperatures provide optimal conditions for cyclone intensification. This cyclone may also adversely affect the southwest monsoon in India by diverting moisture away from the region, potentially causing further delay in the monsoon onset. Long-term warming of the Indian Ocean and an emerging El Nino could also contribute to its weakening.
