PIB Summary- 12th December, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

NAMASTE YOJANA

Context

The government launched the NAMASTE scheme to improve the lives of sanitation workers by promoting mechanization and safe sanitation practices.This initiative aims to ensure their safety and dignity while creating opportunities for economic empowerment.

NAMASTE scheme:

• Launched in 2023-24, NAMASTE aims to improve the lives of sanitation workers in India.
• Focuses on mechanization of sewer cleaning to eliminate hazardous manual scavenging.
• Provides sanitation workers with:
  • Safety gear and training
  • Access to machines
  • Capital subsidies to become ‘Sanipreneurs’ (sanitation entrepreneurs)
  • Skilled wage employment opportunities
• Promotes behavioral change among citizens to reduce reliance on informal workers for unsafe sanitation practices.
• Implemented across all 4800+ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India in convergence with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• Aims to create a safe and dignified ecosystem for sanitation workers, recognizing their crucial role in maintaining sanitation infrastructure.

NATIONAL QUANTUM MISSION

Context

India is investing heavily in quantum technology with its National Quantum Mission.This initiative aims to advance research and development in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials, positioning India as a leader in this emerging field.

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

• Aims to advance India’s capabilities in quantum technology across various domains.
• Approved with a budget of Rs. 6003.65 crores.

Objectives
Quantum Computing:

• Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with increasing qubit capacity (20-50, 50-100, 50-1000) using superconducting and photonic technologies.

Quantum Communication:

• Establish satellite-based secure quantum communication within India (2000 km range) and with other countries.
• Develop inter-city quantum key distribution (2000 km) with trusted nodes.
• Create a multi-node quantum network with quantum memories and repeaters.

Quantum Sensing & Metrology:

• Develop highly sensitive magnetometers and gravity measurement devices.
• Develop atomic clocks with exceptional stability for precision timing and navigation.

Quantum Materials & Devices:

• Design and synthesize quantum materials (superconductors, semiconductors, topological materials) for quantum devices.
• Develop single-photon sources/detectors and entangled photon sources for various applications.

Implementation

• Encourages participation of female scientists from all over India.
• Pan-India initiative with four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) and 14 Technical Groups across 17 states and 2 Union Territories.
• Focuses on technology development, human resource development, entrepreneurship, and international collaborations.