Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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India has signed an agreement with Russia to acquire the Klub-S missile system for its submarine fleet. It is developed by Russia defence company NPO Novator. The Klub missile, also known as Kalibr, entered service in 1994. The Klub-S missile has a 400 kg warhead and can strike targets up to 300 km away, including surface ships, submarines, and land targets. It includes a fire control system, vertical launcher unit, and ammunition. It is known for its effectiveness in combat, it can reach supersonic speeds in the terminal phase, making interception difficult. The missile cruises at 10-15 meters, minimizing enemy defense response time.

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A University of Birmingham study found that vancomycin, an antibiotic for diarrhea, may treat a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) linked to autoimmune liver disease. Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic used for severe bacterial infections like MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and C. difficile-associated diarrhea. It treats infections in the bloodstream, skin, heart valves, bones, and joints. It does not work against viral infections like colds or flu. Vancomycin kills bacteria by preventing proper cell wall formation, making them weak and leading to their death.

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Meta introduced Project Waterworth, the world’s longest undersea cable system. It spans 50,000 km, connecting the U.S., India, Brazil, South Africa, and other regions. The cable reaches depths of up to 7,000 meters in deep waters. Advanced burial methods will protect it in high-risk coastal areas. It strengthens global digital connectivity by opening three new oceanic corridors. The project enhances economic cooperation, digital inclusion, and internet reliability worldwide.

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Russia has developed an mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccine, set for free distribution by early 2025. mRNA vaccines provide genetic instructions to help the body produce antigens that trigger an immune response. Unlike traditional vaccines, this is not preventive but treats existing cancer by targeting tumor-specific antigens. It trains the immune system to attack cancer cells by producing proteins similar to tumor antigens.

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Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella showcased Project Farm Vibes in Baramati, Maharashtra, demonstrating AI-driven solutions that improved crop yields by 40% and reduced fertilizer use by 25%. The Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, in collaboration with Microsoft, is expanding the project from 1,000 to 50,000 farmers. Project Farm Vibes is an AI-driven agricultural technology suite developed by Microsoft Research to improve farming efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. The project involves partnerships with Microsoft Research, Azure AI Team, and Oxford University AI researchers.

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Maharashtra’s state minister is suffering from Bell’s Palsy, a condition causing temporary facial paralysis. It results from inflammation or irritation of the facial nerve (seventh cranial nerve) controlling facial muscles. It is often linked to viral infections, but the cause is usually unknown (idiopathic). It can affect anyone, but is more common in adults. Symptoms include facial drooping, difficulty with facial expressions, drooling, and issues with closing the eyelid or smiling.

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A Lancet Global Health study found that over a third of newborns with sepsis could die. Neonatal sepsis is a blood infection in infants under 90 days old, caused by bacteria like E. coli, Listeria, and Streptococcus. It is classified into early-onset (within 72 hours) and late-onset (after 3 days). Symptoms include temperature changes, breathing issues, and diarrhea. Treatment involves intravenous antibiotics in hospitals. Neonatal sepsis causes 5,50,000 deaths globally yearly, with India accounting for nearly one-fourth of these deaths.

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A mysterious crying disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has caused over 60 deaths and infected more than 1,096 people in Western Congo. The disease was first identified in three children who ate bat and has spread rapidly. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, internal bleeding, diarrhea, body ache, intense thirst, joint pain, incessant crying, nose bleeding, and vomiting blood. The disease can kill within 48 hours, raising serious concerns. Tests ruled out Ebola, dengue, Marburg, and yellow fever, but the exact cause remains unknown. WHO is investigating whether it is an infection or a toxic agent.

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ISRO is developing a LOX-methane engine for the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) with a reusable booster stage and two expendable upper stages. The engine will have multiple restart capability to enhance mission flexibility and booster recovery. Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) is developing a spark torch igniter for higher ignition reliability and cleaner combustion. On March 3, a successful test of the igniter was conducted using GSLV Cryogenic Upper Stage vernier engine. Further tests will be conducted to improve performance and advance development.

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China deployed a powerful Large Phased Array Radar (LPAR) in Yunnan province near the China-Myanmar border. It has a surveillance range of over 5,000 km, covering the Indian Ocean and deep into Indian territory. It can detect and track ballistic missile launches in real time. Unlike traditional radars, it uses electronically controlled antennas for instant scanning. It can track multiple targets, including ballistic missiles, with high precision. LPARs play a key role in early warning systems and air defense networks.