The Army Medical Corps (AMC) commemorated its 260th Raising Day (3rd April 2024) reflecting on centuries of dedication and sacrifice in serving the nation. The AMC, originally known as the Indian Medical Service, was founded in India in 1764 during the British colonial era. With the motto of 'Sarve Santu Niramaya' (let all be free from disease) through selfless service. The Indian Army Medical Corps (IAMC) was established on 3rd April 1943, following the Royal Army Medical Corps model (United Kingdom). It was created by merging the Indian Medical Service (IMS), Indian Medical Department (IMD), and Indian Hospital Corps (IHC) into a unified corps of officers and men.
According to a survey released by Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC), India's Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) reached a 16-year peak of 59.1 in March 2024. PMI is an economic indicator, which is derived after monthly surveys of different companies. It shows trends in both the manufacturing and services sector. A PMI above 50 represents an expansion when compared with the previous month.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed e-commerce food business operators (FBOs) to correctly categorise food products on their websites. The Authority observed cases where licensed "proprietary foods," such as dairy-based, cereal-based, and malt-based beverage mixes, were incorrectly labelled and sold on e-commerce platforms as health or energy drinks. The food products are considered proprietary food if there are no existence of standards for them in FSSAI regulations.
The Steel Ministry is developing a comprehensive green steel policy, encompassing the manufacturing process, required skill set, and funding support, as part of a complete decarbonization strategy. Green steel is the eco-friendly production of steel with lower greenhouse gas emmision, possibly reducing costs and enhancing quality compared to traditional methods.
Recently, a team of scientists from various countries, including India, has uncovered compelling evidence suggesting the existence of ozone on Callisto, one of Jupiter's moons. Previously thought of as a barren celestial body, scientists now consider that this icy moon could harbour conditions conducive to supporting life.
Recently, forest officials learnt that the bark of an Indian laurel tree or Indian Silver Oak (Ficus microcarpa) stores water, particularly in the summer, as claimed by the Konda Reddi tribe. The Indian laurel tree is native to Southeast Asia and regions of India, it thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. A glossy, dark green-leaved evergreen tree, its latex sap is used in making rubber products. Konda Reddi tribe is a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group inhabiting the Papikonda hill range (Andhra Pradesh) in the Godavari region. Their mother tongue is Telugu with a unique accent.
