National:
Swasth Vayu Non-invasive Ventilator:
- The “Swasth Vayu Non-invasive Ventilator” has been indigenously designed developed by CSIR-NAL, with additional features to treat Covid-19 patients.
‘Swasth Vayu Ventilator’ (स्वस्थ वायु वेंटिलेटर) may be used on Covid-19 patients who require oxygen supplementation up to 35%.
It is a microcontroller based precise closed-loop adaptive control system with a built-in biocompatible “3D printed manifold and coupler” with HEPA filter (Highly Efficient Particulate Air Filter).
Centralized network lab of Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations:
- The Minister for Science & Technology, Health & Family Welfare and Earth Sciences Dr Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the Centralized network lab of Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), via virtual plateform, in New Delhi, on 05 January 2021.
The CEPI centralized laboratory established at Translational Health Science & Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, is first of its kind in India and one of the seven in the world. THSTI is an institute of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
This is the only laboratory of such kind in India, and is also accredited by the ‘National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories’ (NABL).
International:
Project to improve the inland water transport infrastructure in Kolkata:
- The Government of India, the Government of West Bengal and the World Bank on 05 January 2021 signed a $105 million project to improve the inland water transport infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal.
The West Bengal Inland Water Transport, Logistics and Spatial Development Project will facilitate passenger and freight movement across the Hooghly river; undertake spatial planning to improve accessibility in the Kolkata Metropolitan Area; enhance the quality of life of its residents; and contribute to the growth of the state’s logistics sector.
Honorary Consul in Northeast India:
- Israel has appointed ‘Joyshree Das Vermas’ as its honorary consul in Northeast India. This appointment will further boost its presence and collaboration in the region.
Appointment:
- US President-elect Joe Biden on January 08, 2021, named Indian-American Sumona Guha as senior director for South Asia and Tarun Chhabra as senior director for Technology and National Security.
Death:
- American journalist & author Neil Sheehan has died in Washington on 07 January 2021. He was 84. He was conferred with Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award for his 1988 book “A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam”.