Recently, the scientific community has been taken by storm through an exciting revelation from southeastern China. Paleontologists have unearthed fossils of a Jurassic era bird-like dinosaur, notably known as the Fujianvenator prodigiosus. This discovery is pivotal as it provides insights into the evolution and origins of avian species.
The newly discovered dinosaur featured elongated limbs, akin to wings, which suggests that it could either be very fast on its feet or follow a lifestyle akin to that of a wading bird of current times. The Fujianvenator prodigiosus finds classification under avialans, a group containing all bird species and their closest non-avian dinosaur relatives. Anatomically similar to a bird’s wing, its forelimb, however, boasts three clawed fingers, a trait not found in modern birds.
Innovation in Banking: India’s First UPI-ATM
Hitachi Payment Services made headlines on September 5, 2023, when they pioneered India’s first-ever Unified Payments Interface Automated Teller Machine (UPI-ATM). This venture was a collaborative effort with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and resulted in a groundbreaking White Label ATM (WLA).
The innovative ATM offering aims to ensure seamless cash withdrawals for users, thereby eliminating the necessity to carry physical ATM cards. Furthermore, the UPI-ATM is poised to propel financial inclusion by increasing the accessibility of banking services, particularly in regions with scarce traditional banking facilities.
Aadhaar Authentication Revolutionized at Global Fintech Festival
At the esteemed Global Fintech Festival held in Mumbai, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), seized the limelight by unveiling its advanced Face Authentication feature. Remarkably, this revolutionary feature has been developed using in-house Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies, embodying the motto “reimagining Aadhaar authentication.”
Under the Volunteer Guideline 2022 initiative, UIDAI is fostering collaborations with industry and fintech partners to expedite technology adoption and devise innovative solutions for residents. A significant alliance with Airtel Payments Bank has led to substantial improvements in face authentication, optimizing low-light conditions and fortifying fraud prevention measures.
Fostering Excellence: EMRS Principal Awarded National Teachers’ Award 2023
Dr. Yashpal Singh, Principal of the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS), Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, was bestowed with the much-coveted National Teachers’ Award for 2023. The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs honored him at the award ceremony.
Implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, the EMRS scheme was launched in 1997-98. The program’s objective is to set up residential schools offering free education to Scheduled Tribe children from class VI to XII in remote regions. This endeavor signifies the government’s dedication towards ensuring quality education to every child, irrespective of their geographical location.
