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Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the pilot of the upcoming Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Mr. Shukla, who is also one of the four astronaut-designates selected for India’s Gaganyaan mission, will become the first Indian astronaut to go to the ISS. The mission will be launched from the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
What is the Axiom-4 Mission?
About:
Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a private spaceflight to the ISS operated by Axiom Space (US-based space-infrastructure development company), using the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.
The SpaceX Crew Dragon is a reusable spacecraft that carries astronauts to and from the ISS.
It is the fourth flight in collaboration with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), following Axiom Missions 1, 2, and 3.
Mission Objectives:
Commercial Space Initiatives: Axiom-4 focuses on enabling commercial activities like space tourism in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
It aims to demonstrate the feasibility of commercial space stations as platforms for business and research.
International Collaboration: The mission features a diverse multinational crew, emphasising global cooperation in space exploration.
It aims to strengthen international partnerships and promote joint efforts in advancing space science.
Research and Development: The mission supports scientific experiments and technological advancements in microgravity.
Research areas include materials science, biology, and Earth observation, offering potential breakthroughs.
Key Features:
Spacecraft and Crew: The mission will deploy a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft launched by a Falcon 9 rocket, carrying professional astronauts, researchers, and private individuals.
Mission Duration and Activities: With an expected duration of 14 days, the crew will conduct experiments, technology demonstrations, and educational outreach aboard the ISS.
Commercial Space Station Development: Axiom-4 is part of Axiom Space’s vision to establish the first commercial space station, transitioning from ISS operations to an independent orbital platform.
Significance for India:
The Ax-4 marks a pivotal collaboration between the ISRO and NASA, highlighting India's growing presence in space exploration.
This mission will facilitate Indian astronauts' participation in activities aboard the ISS, enhancing India's capabilities in human spaceflight and international cooperation in space science.
About International Space Station (ISS)
International Space Station is a modular space station launched in 1998.
Modular stations can allow modules to be added to or removed from the existing structure, allowing greater flexibility.
It is a large laboratory in space that allows astronauts to come aboard and stay for weeks or months to carry out experiments in microgravity.
The first crew on the ISS arrived on November 2, 2000.
Objective:
To conduct scientific research in astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, physics, and other fields.
It is the largest artificial object in space.
It circles the Earth in roughly 93 minutes, completing 15.5 orbits per day.
Currently, the ISS has eight solar arrays generating about 160 kilowatts of power total.
Altitude: 400 km
Participating Space Agencies
It is a multinational collaborative project involving five participating space agencies:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (USA)
Roscosmos State Corporation for Space Activities (Russia)
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (Japan)
European Space Agency (Europe)
Canadian Space Agency (Canada)
The station is divided into two sections:
The Russian Orbital Segment (ROS) – Operated by Russia,
The United States Orbital Segment (USOS) – Operated by the US as well as many other nations.
The ownership & use of the space station is established by intergovernmental treaties & agreements.

Why in the News?
Tata Steel, one of India’s leading steel manufacturers, has achieved a significant milestone in the clean energy sector by developing India’s first hydrogen-compliant pipes. These pipes are specifically designed for transporting hydrogen, supporting India’s transition to green energy and aligning with the National Hydrogen Mission.
Key Takeaways:
First-of-its-Kind Innovation: Tata Steel is the first Indian company to develop hydrogen-compliant pipes, marking a major breakthrough in energy infrastructure.
Advanced Steel Manufacturing: The newly developed API X65 pipes were manufactured at Tata Steel’s Khopoli plant using steel from its Kalinganagar facility.
Hydrogen-Ready Technology: The pipes are designed to transport 100% pure gaseous hydrogen under high pressure (100 bar).
Boost to National Hydrogen Mission: This development contributes to India’s goal of producing 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
Global & Domestic Market Potential: The demand for hydrogen-compliant steel is expected to rise significantly, requiring over 350,000 tonnes of steel in the next five to seven years.
Do You Know?
Hydrogen as Clean Energy: Hydrogen is a zero-emission fuel that produces only water when used, making it a key component of the global clean energy transition.
Steel Pipelines: Steel pipelines are one of the most cost-effective and efficient methods for transporting hydrogen over long distances.
Tata Steel’s Expertise: The company has a long history of developing advanced steel grades, including the successful testing of ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) pipes for hydrogen transportation.
Static Points About Hydrogen-Transport Pipes:
Developed by: Tata Steel.
Type: API X65 pipes for transporting 100% pure gaseous hydrogen.
Pressure Capacity: Designed to withstand 100 bar pressure.
Manufacturing Facilities: Khopoli (pipe processing) and Kalinganagar (steel production).
Applications: Transportation, power generation, and manufacturing industries.
Alignment: Supports India’s National Hydrogen Mission and global clean energy goals.
Advantages of Hydrogen-Compliant Steel Pipelines:
Cost-Effective & Scalable: Compared to other transport methods, steel pipelines offer a lower-cost, efficient solution.
Ensures Safe Transport: Hydrogen-compliant steel resists corrosion and embrittlement, key challenges in hydrogen transportation.
Critical for Energy Transition: These pipelines enable the large-scale distribution of hydrogen, supporting industries like transport, power, and manufacturing.
Tata Steel’s Commitment to Innovation & Sustainability:
Expertise in Advanced Steel Grades: Tata Steel has pioneered steel innovation, including ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) pipes, which have been successfully tested for hydrogen transport.
Contribution to Green Energy Goals: The company is committed to developing sustainable solutions for India's growing clean energy sector.
Leadership in Clean Energy Transition: Tata Steel’s innovation positions India as a global leader in hydrogen transportation technology.
The Road Ahead for Hydrogen in India:
Building a Hydrogen Economy: The National Hydrogen Mission aims to develop a robust hydrogen ecosystem from production to utilization.
Public-Private Collaboration: Scaling up hydrogen adoption requires government, industry, and research partnerships.
Investment & Policy Support: Future success will depend on strong investments in R&D, infrastructure, and favorable policies.
Conclusion:
Tata Steel’s development of hydrogen-compliant pipes is a game-changer in India’s clean energy landscape. By pioneering advanced steel solutions for hydrogen transportation, the company is driving India’s transition to a hydrogen-based economy, fostering sustainability, innovation, and energy security.

In a groundbreaking move, BIMTECH (Birla Institute of Management Technology) has launched BIMCOIN, India’s first blockchain-based campus currency. This innovative digital currency aims to facilitate secure, transparent, and efficient transactions within the campus ecosystem, marking a significant step towards integrating blockchain technology into academia.
Why in the News?
BIMTECH has introduced BIMCOIN, becoming the first business school in India to implement a blockchain-based campus currency.
The initiative aligns with global trends in digital currency adoption and provides students with hands-on experience in fintech and blockchain technology.
BIMCOIN’s launch reflects India’s growing focus on digital innovation and financial inclusion, in line with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Key Takeaways
BIMCOIN: A permissioned blockchain-based currency designed for secure and transparent transactions within the BIMTECH campus.
Purpose: To provide students with practical exposure to blockchain technology and digital currencies.
Pilot Phase: Over 1,100 transactions have been completed successfully, with plans for a wider rollout.
Security: Advanced encryption, data privacy protocols, and strict access controls ensure secure transactions.
Curriculum Integration: BIMTECH plans to offer specialized courses in blockchain, fintech, and digital innovation.
Do You Know?
Blockchain Technology: A decentralized digital ledger that records transactions securely and transparently.
Permissioned Blockchain: Unlike public blockchains, permissioned blockchains restrict access to authorized users, enhancing security and control.
Strategic Partnership: BIMTECH collaborated with the Kalp Decentra Foundation to establish a Blockchain Learning Centre on campus, fostering innovation and practical learning.
National Alignment: BIMCOIN aligns with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and draws inspiration from the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) model.
Static Points About BIMCOIN
Launched by: Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH).
Type: Permissioned blockchain-based digital currency.
Purpose: Facilitate secure and transparent campus transactions.
Pilot Phase: Over 1,100 transactions completed successfully.
Security Features: Advanced encryption, data privacy protocols, and access controls.
Future Plans: Wider rollout and integration into the curriculum.
Significance of BIMCOIN
Educational Impact: Provides students with real-world experience in blockchain and fintech, preparing them for the digital economy.
Security and Transparency: Ensures secure transactions with minimal risk of fraud or errors.
Innovation Hub: The Blockchain Learning Centre encourages students to work on blockchain-based projects, fostering creativity and technical skills.
National Relevance: Supports India’s digital initiatives, promoting financial inclusion and digital payments.
Conclusion
The launch of BIMCOIN by BIMTECH is a pioneering step in integrating blockchain technology into academia. By offering students hands-on experience with digital currencies, the initiative not only enhances their learning but also aligns with India’s broader goals of digital transformation and financial inclusion. As BIMCOIN moves beyond its pilot phase, it sets a new benchmark for educational institutions to embrace cutting-edge technologies and prepare students for the future.

Why in the News?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has restrained the Andhra Pradesh government from proceeding with six major infrastructure projects in the ecologically sensitive Kolleru wetland. The decision was made by the Southern Zonal Bench of the NGT, citing concerns over environmental and hydrological impacts. The ruling emphasizes the need for legal compliance and mandatory environmental clearances before proceeding with such projects.
Key Takeaways
The Andhra Pradesh government planned six infrastructure projects under the 'A.P. Krishna - Kolleru Salinity Mitigation Projects Corporation Limited' with a total capital outlay of ₹2,952 crore.
The NGT's intervention came after noted environmental activist T. Patanjali Sastry challenged the government's order (G.O. Ms. No. 63, dated December 2, 2020), arguing that the projects lacked ecological and scientific assessments.
The tribunal ruled that all necessary clearances must be obtained from regulatory bodies, including the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), the A.P. Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA), the A.P. Pollution Control Board (PCB), and the National Board for Wild Life (NBWL).
The projects involve constructing three regulators-cum-roads across the tidal water channel, Upputeru, which is a crucial part of the Kolleru ecosystem.
The NGT emphasized that potential negative impacts on the wetland's hydrology, biodiversity, and eco-sensitive zone must be thoroughly evaluated before proceeding.
Do You Know?
Kolleru Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, located in Andhra Pradesh, and serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds.
The lake falls under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation of wetlands, highlighting its global ecological importance.
Upputeru, the tidal water channel mentioned in the ruling, serves as a natural drainage system for the lake, playing a vital role in maintaining its water balance and biodiversity.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in 2010 for expediting environmental cases and ensuring strict enforcement of environmental laws in India.
Static Points about Kolleru Wetland
Location: Situated between the Krishna and Godavari deltas in Andhra Pradesh, Kolleru is one of India’s largest freshwater lakes.
Ecological Significance : It acts as a natural flood-balancing reservoir and supports rich biodiversity, including fish, birds, and plants.
Ramsar Site : Designated as a Ramsar site in 2002, Kolleru is protected under international agreements for its wetland conservation value.
Threats : Over the years, the wetland has faced threats from encroachments, pollution, and unsustainable development projects.
Conclusion
The NGT's ruling highlights the critical need for sustainable development, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like Kolleru wetland. While infrastructure projects are vital for economic progress, they must align with environmental protection laws to ensure long-term ecological balance. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of expert-driven, scientifically-backed conservation efforts in India’s wetlands.