Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Andhra Pradesh has launched India’s first quantum test facilities under the Amaravati Quantum Valley initiative on the occasion of World Quantum Day (April 14). The facilities include two Quantum Reference Facilities at SRM University, Amaravati and Medha Towers, Gannavaram, creating India’s first quantum test and certification ecosystem. The systems operate at extremely low temperatures (near −273°C) and support advanced quantum research and innovation. The initiative promotes collaboration among academia, startups, and industry, with support from institutions like Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

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Researchers from the University of Cambridge have developed a hafnium-oxide memristor, a brain-inspired nanodevice that can significantly reduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) energy consumption. A memristor (memory + resistor) is an electronic component whose resistance depends on past current flow, enabling it to “remember” previous electrical states. Unlike a conventional resistor, a memristor has variable resistance and retains its state even when the current is switched off. Memristors are nanoscale devices with low energy requirements and are commonly made using materials like titanium dioxide (TiO₂) between metal electrodes.

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Researchers from Central University of Rajasthan discovered a new cyanobacterium species named Pushkarmema curajae from Pushkar Lake, Rajasthan. The genus and species names honor Pushkar Lake and the university’s contribution to research. P. curajae has potential applications in pharmaceuticals, biofertilizers, and nutrient-rich supplements that enhance immunity and health. Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic, microscopic organisms found in aquatic environments worldwide.

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India achieved a milestone with a 500 MWe (Megawatt Electric) Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam attaining first criticality on April 6, 2026. Developed by Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research and built by BHAVINI. It marks Stage-II of India’s 3-stage nuclear programme using uranium-plutonium mixed oxide fuel. Fast Breeder Reactors produce more fuel than they consume. India will become the 2nd country after Russia to operate commercial Fast Breeder Reactors.

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DAMPE Satellite has made observations on the acceleration of cosmic rays. The findings show that the intensity of cosmic radiation decreases sharply beyond a certain high-energy threshold. DAMPE stands for Dark Matter Particle Explorer and is also known as “Wukong.” It was developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). It is China’s first astronomical satellite designed for high-energy observations. The satellite was launched in 2015 into a polar sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of about 500 km. It detects high-energy gamma rays, electrons, and cosmic rays.

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A suspected outbreak of hantavirus on a Netherlands-based cruise ship has caused deaths and illnesses. Hantavirus is a rodent-borne virus transmitted to humans through inhalation of airborne particles from rodent droppings, saliva, or urine. It causes two major diseases: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), affecting the lungs, and Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), affecting the kidneys. Symptoms begin with flu-like signs such as fever and fatigue, followed by respiratory distress after a few days. There is no specific treatment, and management mainly involves supportive care such as rest and fluids.

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Scientists have warned that rising temperatures due to climate change may increase the spread of the Brain-Eating Amoeba, scientifically known as Naegleria fowleri. The amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater bodies such as lakes, rivers, ponds, hot springs, and moist soil. It enters the human body through the nose and attacks brain tissues. Infection by Naegleria fowleri causes Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but highly fatal disease of the central nervous system. Higher temperatures create favourable conditions for the amoeba’s growth and survival. The warning highlights the possible health impacts of climate change on infectious diseases.

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Dhruva Space secured ₹105 crore under the Research, Development & Innovation Fund for “Project Garud.” Project Garud is a satellite platform programme focused on developing a flat-pack 500 kg-class satellite platform for scalable and high-volume manufacturing. The project aims to bridge the gap between small experimental satellites and large traditional spacecraft systems. The platform is designed for applications in telecommunications, national security, Earth observation, and data-driven services. Its flat-pack architecture enables efficient launch stacking, faster integration, and quicker deployment timelines.

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The SMILE Mission is a joint mission of the European Space Agency and the Chinese Academy of Sciences to study how Earth’s magnetic shield protects the planet from harmful solar wind. Recently, the mission gained attention as ESA and China prepared for its launch to investigate Earth’s defence system against solar storms and charged particles from the Sun. SMILE stands for Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer. The mission will capture the first X-ray images of Earth’s magnetosphere in action. It will operate around 1.21 lakh km above Earth’s north pole and carry four scientific instruments for X-ray, ultraviolet, and in-situ observations.

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Department of Biotechnology organised the UMMID event in New Delhi. UMMID stands for “Unique Methods of Management of Inherited Disorders” and focuses on diagnosis, counselling, screening, and management of rare genetic diseases. The programme aims to promote genome-based, precision-driven, and personalised healthcare in India. It was launched by the Department of Biotechnology to improve access to genetic diagnostics and treatment for inherited disorders. During the event, the UMMID Compendium and UMMID Dashboard were also launched to strengthen monitoring, diagnostics, and outreach. The initiative has benefited nearly three lakh individuals and established around 30 NIDAN Kendras for advanced diagnostics and counselling.