The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made a notable Announcement of Opportunity (AO). This initiative invites scientists and researchers to analyze data from India’s first astronomy mission, AstroSat. The AO is specifically proposing proposals for the 13th cycle of observations from AstroSat.
This opportunity extends to both Indian and international Principal Investigators (PIs) to utilize the AstroSat observatory time. The observations are scheduled to be carried out between October 2023 and September 2024.
The announcement caters to Indian scientists and researchers residing in India, dedicating 55% of the observing time to them. It also extends to non-Indian scientists, researchers, and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), working at global space agencies, universities, and colleges, assigning them 20% of the observation time.
AstroSat, launched in 2015, aims to study celestial sources in X-ray and UV spectral bands simultaneously. It offers a space astronomy observatory operated by ISRO. AstroSat celebrated seven years in orbit in September 2022.
Innovation in Courtroom Proceedings: Live Transcription using AI
In a recent development, the Supreme Court (SC) of India started a unique project to transcribe its proceedings live using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The platform ‘Teres’ used for transcribing arbitration proceedings is being utilized for this task. The transcript will be shared with lawyers who argued cases for verification and is likely to be uploaded on the SC website every evening.
This step towards transparency follows the SC’s decision to live stream its proceedings before Constitution Benches. In 2022, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) introduced the digital platform FASTER (Fast and Secured Transmission of Electronic Records). FASTER enables the communication of Supreme Court orders to concerned authorities through a secured electronic communication channel.
The Supreme Court has further embraced technology by incorporating AI-based portal ‘SUPACE’ into the judicial system to assist judges with legal research.
World Day of Social Justice: Promoting Equitable Globalization
Recognized annually on February 20, the World Day of Social Justice stands as a global observance to promote awareness of social injustice. Established in 2007 by the General Assembly, this day seeks to break down barriers based on gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, or handicap.
In 2008, the International Labour Organization endorsed the ILO Declaration on Social Justice for Equitable Globalization. This statement marks the ILO’s third major declaration of principles and policy since its inception in 1919.
Educational institutions, such as schools, colleges, and universities, often host numerous activities and events on this day to foster a broader understanding of social justice values.
Anubhuti Inclusive Park: A Beacon of Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities
In Nagpur, Maharashtra, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways recently laid the Foundation Stone for the world’s largest and unique Divyang Park – Anubhuti Inclusive Park. This park, a project designed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, will be globally distinctive as the first inclusive disabled park.
The park will cater to all 21 types of disabilities, offering facilities like a touch and smell garden, hydrotherapy unit, water therapy, and an independent room for mentally challenged children and their mothers.
Following the passage of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act in 2016, the central government has been dedicated to creating similar Divyang Parks in South India and Madhya Pradesh. The Act underlines the right of persons with disabilities to live with dignity, hence providing impetus for initiatives like these.
