Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

  • Plant Proteins Linked to Lower Heart Disease Risk

    Plant Proteins Linked to Lower Heart Disease Risk

    The study aims to pioneer the investigation of an ideal ratio of plant to animal protein and how it impacts health, specifically heart health…reports Asian Lite News

    Eating more plant-based protein than animal-based protein may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease (CHD), according to a new study on Monday.

    The study, led by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, showed that the risk reductions are likely driven by the replacement of red and processed meats with plant proteins and eating more legumes and nuts.

    “Such a dietary pattern is beneficial not just for human health but also the health of our planet,” they said in the study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

    The study aims to pioneer the investigation of an ideal ratio of plant to animal protein and how it impacts health, specifically heart health.

    “The average American eats a 1:3 plant-to-animal protein ratio. Our findings suggest a ratio of at least 1:2 is much more effective in preventing CVD,” said lead author Andrea Glenn, Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at New York University. Glenn worked on the study as a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard Chan School.

    To prevent CHD, a ratio of 1:1.3 or higher should come from plants, Glenn said.

    The team used 30 years of data on diet, lifestyle, and heart health among nearly 203,000 men and women. Throughout the four-year study period, 16,118 CVD cases, including over 10,000 CHD cases and over 6,000 stroke cases, were documented.

    The results showed that people who consumed a higher ratio of plant to animal protein (about 1:1.3) had a 19 per cent lower risk of CVD and a 27 per cent lower risk of CHD.

    Further, people who had their 21 per cent of energy coming from proteins and adhered to a higher plant-to-animal protein ratio saw a 28 per cent lower risk of CVD and a 36 per cent lower risk of CHD.

    According to the researchers, replacing processed meat with several plant protein sources, particularly nuts and legumes can improve blood lipids and blood pressure as well as inflammatory biomarkers. It is partly because plant proteins are often accompanied by high amounts of fibre, antioxidant vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

    ALSO READ-Plant-Based Milks Fall Short on Nutrition

  • Plant-Based Milks Fall Short on Nutrition

    Plant-Based Milks Fall Short on Nutrition

    In the study, the team examined 10 different plant-based drinks and compared them with cow’s milk to understand whether chemical reactions during processing affect their nutritional quality…reports Asian Lite News

    While oat, almond, and soy milk have emerged as popular alternatives to cow’s milk, a new study showed it may be lacking in proteins and essential amino acids.

    Over the last decade, these plant-based beverages have also seen remarkable growth in the global market due to their environmentally-friendly approach. But extensive processing is causing chemical reactions that cut down the protein quality and, in some cases, produce cancer-causing compounds, claimed researchers from the University of Copenhagen.

    Lead author Professor Marianne Nissen Lund, from the varsity’s Department of Food Science said that plant-based drinks cannot “replace cow’s milk” in terms of “proper nutrition”.

    In the study, the team examined 10 different plant-based drinks and compared them with cow’s milk to understand whether chemical reactions during processing affect their nutritional quality.

    Lund stated that “plant-based drinks undergo more intense heat treatments than the milk to extend their shelf life” — known as ultra-high temperature (UHT) treatment, This triggers a chemical reaction between protein and sugar — called “Maillard reaction” — and reduces the nutritional quality of the proteins.

    Further, she noted that while most plant-based milks contain significantly less protein than cow’s milk, the heat treatment also “leads to the loss of some essential amino acids”.

    Notably, the heat treatment may also produce cancer-causing compounds, said the expert in the paper, published in Food Research International journal.

    The researchers found acrylamide in four of the plant-based drinks made from almonds and oats. Acrylamide is a known carcinogen that is also found in bread, cookies, coffee beans, and fried potatoes, including French fries.

    While acrylamide was found at low levels, posing no danger, its consumption “in small amounts from various sources, could add up to a level that does pose a health risk,” Lund said.

    ALSO READ-Proper Nutrition in Pregnancy Key to Preventing Bone Loss

  • SNF receives approval to set up polymer production project in Oman

    SNF receives approval to set up polymer production project in Oman

    The facility, designed to produce high-performance anionic polymers, will play a key role in enhancing chemical EOR capabilities and meeting the fast-growing needs of regional clients.

    Muscat: Eight months after announcing an ambitious $250 million expansion plan in Oman, SNF, world’s leading provider of integrated solutions for chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR), announced that it has received approval to set up a polymer production project in Oman.

    “Oman is emerging as a key player in the Middle East polymer market and I am delighted to inform Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) has given the company the go ahead for setting up the plant recently,” said Jimmy Nesbitt, General Manager of SNF Oman, at a press conference in Muscat on Thursday.

    “With more than 20 years of in-country presence in the Sultanate of Oman, this project, is a testament to the company’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and in-country value,” he claimed.

    He further said that the facility, designed to produce high-performance anionic polymers, will play a key role in enhancing chemical EOR capabilities and meeting the fast-growing needs of regional clients. “The plant is also expected to produce local employment opportunities, generate in-country value, and establish Oman as a key player in the Middle East polymer market,” he added.

    “This is an extraordinary step forward,” he said. “We’ve moved from concept to tangible progress on the ground. The support from the Omani government and our local partners has been instrumental in reaching this stage.”

    He also said that SNF’s Regional SNF Technical Centre (RSTC Oman) in Muscat has entered its final stages of development. “The delivery of highly advanced laboratory equipment is well underway. The RSTC is set to open in the first months of 2025, fulfilling its vision of serving as SNF’s GCC R&D hub. The centre will support oil and gas innovation in the region, focusing on polymer research for EOR, specialising in carbonate reservoirs, Water Shut-Off, and other cutting-edge technologies. The facility will also provide critical technical support throughout the lifecycle of SNF’s projects, ensuring efficiency and sustainability,” he added.

    In line with its commitment to in-country value, SNF has prioritized local recruitment and talent development. Through collaborations with Omani universities and institutions, SNF is fostering the next generation of experts in oilfield technologies and sustainability practices. “The RSTC is more than just a technical facility,” he said. “It’s a hub for knowledge exchange and skill development, creating long-term value for Oman’s workforce and industry.”

    ALSO READ: Sabries Group expands to Oman with premium healthcare services

  • Sabries Group expands to Oman with premium healthcare services

    Sabries Group expands to Oman with premium healthcare services

    The group launched its first projects, including Sabries Healthcare, Sabries Polyclinic, and Sabries Visa Medical Services, alongside a speech therapy center and pharmacies strategically located across the country.

    MUSCAT : The Sabries Group, a rapidly growing business conglomerate, has officially commenced operations in Oman, marking a new era in premium healthcare delivery. Under the visionary leadership of Sabri Harid and Shaly Sabri, the group launched its first projects, including Sabries Healthcare, Sabries Polyclinic, and Sabries Visa Medical Services, alongside a speech therapy center and pharmacies strategically located across the country.

    The group’s dedicated visa medical services branch in Al Hail is set to officially open on Friday, offering specialised visa medical examinations. Speaking about the milestone during a press conference recently, Sabri Harid, the owner of Sabries Group, said, “Our mission is to redefine healthcare standards in Oman by combining innovation, expertise, and a patient-centered approach. We are committed to serving the community with excellence and care. In addition to healthcare, the group plans to diversify its activities further into specialized engineering, contracting, frozen food distribution, and the restaurant industry in the near future. With its focus on innovation, quality, and community engagement, the Sabries Group is poised to become a trusted healthcare and business partner in Oman, paving the way for a brighter and healthier future.

    The group’s initial ventures include Mutrah, a state-of-the-art health center providing GP services, pediatric care, dental services, and visa medical examinations and at Nizwa in the next few months, a polyclinic offering comprehensive services such as visa medicals, PDO medical services, general healthcare, dental care, and pediatrics.

    The Sabries Group’s expansion into Oman reflects its dedication to meeting the diverse healthcare needs of local communities. The Al Hail grand opening is expected to attract distinguished guests and residents, symbolising the group’s commitment to accessibility and reliability in healthcare.

    ALSO READ: Residents of Darsait celebrates 54th Oman’s National Day with friendship and brotherhood

  • A Night of Empowerment and Transformation: SRLC Mission Africa Gala 2024

    A Night of Empowerment and Transformation: SRLC Mission Africa Gala 2024

    The city of London came alive with purpose and hope as Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) hosted a breathtaking Gala in support of SRLC Mission Africa. The Gala, attended by over 200 philanthropists, thought leaders and changemakers, showcased the powerful impact of SRLC’s work across 16 African nations. Guests expressed their wonder at the breadth of charitable work being done, and many felt fellow philanthropists should get to know more about the remarkable projects being implemented across some of the most deprived regions of African countries.

    The event was graced by the Founder of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, Enlightened Master, spiritual visionary, and humanitarian leader, Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji.

    SRLC: A Global Movement of Compassion

    SRLC is a global humanitarian initiative inspired by the teachings of Shrimad Rajchandraji and guided by Pujya Gurudevshri. Operating through a unique 10-fold Benevolent Care Programme, SRLC addresses the needs of underserved communities in areas such as healthcare, education and community development. With 206 global centres and a track record of transforming over 21 million lives, SRLC has become a beacon of hope for marginalised communities. Mission Africa is an extension of SRLC’s vision, committed to overcoming hunger, poverty and unemployment across 16 African nations, including Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, and Uganda. By implementing innovative programmes like school feeding initiatives, water supply solutions and vocational training, Mission Africa has touched over 5 million lives in a short span of time.

    Mission Africa Opening Ceremony

    Impactful Insights and Stories of Transformation

    The Gala evening featured a captivating keynote address by Atmarpit Nemiji, Vice President of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur. His heartfelt speech brought to life Mission Africa’s grassroots initiatives, including the adoption of 55 schools in Makueni, Kenya, feeding 30,000+ meals to school children daily and the creation of 2,000,000 litres of water harvesting capacity annually. Amu Shah, Chairman of Advisory Board of SRLC Mission Africa and Atmarpit Mansiji, Head of Paediatrics at Shrimad Rajchandra Hospital and Research Centre and Advisory Board Member of SRLC Mission Africa, shared stories from their personal experiences in Africa. Their moving accounts highlighted how SRLC’s efforts are fostering resilience and empowerment. Attendees were deeply touched by their clarity and dedication, as well as the enthusiasm of SRLC’s volunteers, reflected in the meticulous organisation of the event.

    Amu Shah – Chairman SRLC Mission Africa

    The Gala successfully raised significant funds to support Mission Africa’s initiatives. Donations will go towards feeding children, drilling borewells, building schools and adopting entire villages to create self-sustaining communities.

    An Immersive Evening of Inspiration

    The event also featured an engaging art exhibition, “Brushed by Dreams,” showcasing paintings by African children alongside immersive elements such as a water walk and uji tasting.

    Keynote Speaker – Atmarpit Nemiji – Vice President of SRMD

    Captivating performances added a vibrant touch to the night. Globally renowned mentalist and magician, Marc Spelmann dazzled the audience with his unique blend of illusion and mind-reading, while the Gold Vocal Collective delivered an electrifying a cappella performance.

    Guests expressed admiration for the evening’s message and impact. Founder and Chairman of London Town Group of Companies, Koolesh Shah, reflected, “Africa is a continent that needs all our love and affection. The Gala amplified this and inspired us to be part of this journey.”

    Atmarpit Nemiji L & Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji R

    Sam Tully, Visiting Fellow at Cambridge Judge Business School, remarked, “It’s my privilege to see funds raised generously for a cause rooted in spirituality and impactful action.”

    Accomplished thought leader, writer, lecturer and broadcaster, Professor Atul K Shah PhD FCA shared, “I’m a Professor of Finance but I learned something new; this idea that in charity, you can actually profit maximise, not in a material sense, but in the sense of having purpose and meaning in life, which lifts you to levels that you never knew you could go to.”

    Water Walk

    A Legacy of Hope and Action

    Under Pujya Gurudevshri’s guidance, SRLC’s grassroots approach ensures that every contribution translates into measurable impact. By combining compassion and action, Mission Africa continues to ignite the spirit of empowerment and independence for millions. This Gala was more than an event—it was a powerful reminder of the boundless possibilities when humanity comes together with compassion and action.

    Proceeds from the evening will directly support SRLC Mission Africa’s transformative initiatives. For more information or to contribute, visit srlcmissionafrica.org, email uk@loveandcare.srmd.org, or contact Manthan Taswala at 07835 237 325.

    Atmarpit Mansiji – Head of Paediatrics at Shrimad Rajchandra Hospital and Research Centre and Advisory Board Member of SRLC Mission Africa
    Brushed by Dreams – Art Exhibition
    Exhibition
    Marc Spelmann
    The Gold Vocal Collective

  • Bangladesh court revises ULFA leader’s verdict 

    Bangladesh court revises ULFA leader’s verdict 

    The ULFA is an outlawed organization which has been banned by the Ministry of Home Affairs. ..reports Asian Lite News

    The High Court Division of the Bangladesh Supreme Court on Wednesday commuted the sentence of United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) leader Paresh Baruah, changing his sentence from the death penalty to life imprisonment in the 10-truck arms smuggling case, lawyers said. 

    Paresh Baruah, the head of the military wing of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) was previously sentenced to death by a lower court in Bangladesh for his involvement in the arms shipment of 10 trucks seized in Chittagong in 2004, they said. 

    The ULFA is an outlawed organization which has been banned by the Ministry of Home Affairs. 

    The High Court also acquitted six people, including the former Minister of State for Home Affairs of Bangladesh, Lutfuzzaman Babar, who were sentenced to death in the case. The court reduced the sentence of six other accused people, who were sentenced to death in the case, to 10 years, lawyers added. 

    ULFA split into two factions in 2011 when the pro-talk faction, led by Arabinda Rajkhowa, decided to return to Assam from “abroad” and participate in peace talks. Meanwhile, the other faction, ULFA (Independent), led by its commander Paresh Baruah, opposed negotiations. (ANI) 

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  • Open letter urges Bangladesh to protect minorities 

    Open letter urges Bangladesh to protect minorities 

    The initiative, coordinated by India’s former High Commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri and former ambassador Bhaswati Mukherjee, points out that the worst brunt of the chaotic situation…reports Asian Lite News

    An ‘open letter’ signed by nearly 500 people – including dozens of former diplomats, public servants, senior government officials, armed personnel and members of the civil society – has urged all individuals and institutions in Bangladesh to work towards restoring democracy and secularism, including the rights of Hindus and other religious minorities in the country while emphasising that the current situation is “intolerable and unacceptable” to the people of India. 

    The initiative, coordinated by India’s former High Commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri and former ambassador Bhaswati Mukherjee, points out that the worst brunt of the chaotic situation prevailing in Bangladesh is being borne by the 15 million strong minority communities of Bangladesh – including Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, as well as the Shias, Ahmadiyyas and others. 

    “For over four months, fundamentalist Islamist groups have unleashed violent, terrorist attacks on religious minorities across the country in almost every district, involving desecration and vandalisation of places of worship, abductions and rape, lynchings, extra judicial executions, killings, forced conversions, along with wanton destruction of homes and business establishments. Even where there is irrefutable evidence, no action has been taken against the culprits,” the letter mentions. 

    It is to be recalled that Muhammad Yunus had taken over as the Chief Advisor of the Bangladeshi interim government on August 8 following the fall of the government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 

    “The series of events in July and August 2024 had initially been described as the result of a spontaneous uprising by students across Bangladesh. However, September 24, 2024, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus publicly stated at a gathering of the Clinton Global Initiative in New York that the regime change operation, far from being spontaneous, was “meticulously designed”, planned well in advance and spearheaded by an Advisor in the Interim regime, who is also Special Assistant to Yunus,” the letter details. 

    Noted Indian scholars, former diplomats and retired Army Generals, who signed the ‘open letter’ have jointly voiced their alarm and concern at the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh. 

    “The agenda of the Islamists appears to be to terrorize and drive the religious minority population out of Bangladesh. It is noteworthy that Hindus and other minority communities across Bangladesh are stoutly resisting such attempts by Islamist groups. They are seeking protection of their rights as citizens of Bangladesh, as assured through the nation’s Constitution,” the letter states. 

    It adds that an “atmosphere of anarchy” prevails in Bangladesh, with “mobocracy the preferred method” of decision making. 

    The letter also refers to the arrest and jailing of Chinmoy Krishna Das, formerly with the globally renowned ISKCON spiritual organisation, together with his colleagues in the Sanatani Jagran Jote who had put together an eight-point demand on behalf of the religious minorities of Bangladesh, including seeking the enactment of a minority protection law in Bangladesh and formation of a ministry for the protection of minorities. 

    “There is no response from the Yunus administration on these demands. Chinmoy Krishna Das has been arrested on charges of sedition, denied bail without a hearing and his lawyers are facing organised intimidation in their efforts to defend him in court and obtain bail. He is being denied a free and fair trial,” says the ‘open letter’. 

    It adds that the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh have aroused deep concern in India, which has a long border with Bangladesh. It states that, apart from the purely humanitarian aspects, there is the danger that the volatile situation in Bangladesh could spill across borders, disrupt communal harmony and create serious law and order problems in India. 

    The signatories to the letter also urged the people of Bangladesh not to be swayed by “malicious anti-India campaigns” that seek to weaken the bedrock of mutually beneficial cooperation that has been steadily developed over the last five decades and more. 

    “There is concern that the representatives of Islamist political parties and organisations, several of whom have joined the interim administration, are enforcing decisions that go against the very essence of Bangladesh’s 1972 Constitution. Since such groups have seldom received any electoral support from the people of Bangladesh, the present situation is against the larger interest of the public. This crisis facing Bangladesh can only be overcome through early free, fair and inclusive elections,” the letter concludes while calling for an “immediate end” to attacks on minorities, their properties, business establishments and coercion to force them to leave. 

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  • 28 Indians detained in Bahrain repatriated 

    28 Indians detained in Bahrain repatriated 

    The Embassy further said that the fishermen were initially sentenced to six months, but their term was reduced to three months. ..reports Asian Lite News

    The Indian Embassy in Bahrain on Wednesday announced the repatriation of 28 Indian fishermen who were detained in the country. 

    The Embassy further said that the fishermen were initially sentenced to six months, but their term was reduced to three months. 

    Sharing a post on X, the Indian embassy in Bahrain wrote, “India in Bahrain is pleased to announce repatriation of 28 Indian fishermen who were recently freed after reduction in sentence from 6 to 3 months. The embassy facilitated legal assistance and travel under GoI’s Indian Community Welfare Fund. Well being of Indian nationals is our priority.” 

    The Indian Embassy also thanked the Bahraini authorities for “cooperation.” In another post on X, it wrote, “We thank the Bahraini authorities for cooperation & swift response including for providing consular access. Wishing them a safe return to their families in India.” 

    Earlier on September 26, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take immediate diplomatic initiatives to ensure consular access and legal assistance to secure an early release of 28 fishermen from the Idinthakarai fishing village of Tirunelveli district apprehended by the Bahrain Coast Guard on September 11. 

    In a letter, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister said, “It has come to my attention that 28 fishermen from Idinthakarai fishing village, Tirunelveli District, who were engaged in fishing labour in Iran, were apprehended by the Bahrain Coast Guard on September 11 for inadvertently crossing the border.” 

    CM Stalin further said in the letter that the boats belonged to Iranian nationals. 

    “The families of the fishermen, who are highly dependent on their income, have been severely impacted by the arrest,” he stated. 

    CM Stalin had also requested the EAM Jaishankar to take immediate diplomatic initiatives to ensure consular access and legal assistance to secure the early release of the arrested fishermen. (ANI) 

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  • Army launches AI incubation centre in Bengaluru 

    Army launches AI incubation centre in Bengaluru 

    This centre is set to develop cutting-edge data-driven solutions, improving decision-making, operational efficiency, and readiness for AI-driven warfare within the Army….reports Asian Lite News

    Indian Army chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday inaugurated the Artificial Intelligence Incubation Centre (IAAIIC) in Bengaluru. 

    The virtual inauguration was done by Gener Upendra Dwivedi, reflecting the Indian Army’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies and empowering its personnel with Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

    The establishment of the IAAIIC aligns with the Indian Army’s vision of technological evolution, aimed at enhancing operational capabilities, building an AI-ready force, and ensuring preparedness for modern security challenges. 

    This centre is set to develop cutting-edge data-driven solutions, improving decision-making, operational efficiency, and readiness for AI-driven warfare within the Army. The centre is being established in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). 

    The infrastructure and IT support will be provided by the BEL. The cell will be manned by personnel of the Indian Army. 

    The key objectives and features include: Hub for Innovation and Collaboration in AI Domain: The IAAIIC will serve as a platform for academia, startups, industry leaders, and domain experts to collaborate on developing indigenous AI solutions tailored to the Army’s unique needs. 

    Promotion of R&D: The centre will explore AI applications across critical areas such as Predictive Maintenance, Enhanced Surveillance, Decision Support Systems, and Autonomous Platforms. Supported by a 1-petaflop supercomputer from CDAC, the facility is well-equipped for AI modelling and training. 

    Indigenous Capacity and Talent Building: By nurturing local talent and reducing dependence on foreign technologies, the IAAIIC reinforces India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology. The centre will also help the ndian Army in building a cadre of AI experts. 

    Operational Edge: The IAAIIC is aimed to position the Indian Army at the forefront of defence technology, equipping it for multi-domain warfare. 

    By aligning with national priorities and fostering the spirit of self-reliance and Atmanirbharta, the IAAIIC promises to elevate India’s defence capabilities, setting benchmarks for innovation and excellence in military AI applications. 

    This initiative not only strengthens national security but also underscores the Indian Army’s endeavour for absorption of niche technology in the “Decade of Transformation”. (ANI) 

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  • Kwatra, Campbell meet Indian astronauts training at NASA 

    Kwatra, Campbell meet Indian astronauts training at NASA 

    In a significant development, plans were discussed to launch a jointly developed NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Earth Science (NISAR) satellite in 2025….reports Asian Lite News

    Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra along with US Deputy Secretary Campbell and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer travelled to Houston to note the advancements in the India-US space cooperation in recent months and discussed steps to further advance the space partnership between the two countries. 

    In a press statement by the US Department of State, it was noted that the officials met with representatives from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), including two ISRO astronauts who are training at NASA Johnson Space Centre in preparation to join a proposed mission the International Space Station in 2025. 

    In a significant development, plans were discussed to launch a jointly developed NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Earth Science (NISAR) satellite in 2025. The officials also met with representatives from the space industry private sector to explore innovative ways for strengthening the Indian and American commercial space sectors. 

    Taking it to X, Ambassador Kwatra said, “Wonderful to visit the Johnson Space Center of @NASA with @DeputySecState Kurt Campbell and Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer. Had the opportunity to discuss India and US space cooperation including in human space flight program and enhancing partnership between the two private sectors in the fields of innovation and technology. Was also glad to meet the Indian astronauts training at Houston.” 

    Following President Biden and Prime Minister Modi’s June 2023 commitment to work together to “reach new frontiers across all sectors of space cooperation” and India’s signing of the Artemis Accords, our two nations reached an inflection point on collaboration across civil, security, and commercial space sectors,” the White House noted in a press briefing. 

    During the meeting in Houston, Indian and American officials also reflected on the accomplishments of the past few months and charted the next steps to take our partnership to the next level. These include the selection of two ISRO astronauts to train at NASA’s Johnson Space Center for the first-ever joint effort between American and Indian astronauts at the International Space Station, the launch of the Axiom-4 mission and celebrating the completion of a Strategic Framework for Human Spaceflight Cooperation to deepen interoperability in space and working toward the conclusion of a new arrangement on advanced astronaut training, the White House noted. 

    Notably, discussions were also held to promote defence space cooperation through the US-India Advanced Domains Defence Dialogue, India’s participation in US Space Command’s annual Global Sentinel exercise, launching of a space situational awareness joint challenge under the India-US Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) and advancing reviews of Missile Technology exports. (ANI) 

    ISRO starts assembling HLVM3 for Gaganyaan mission 

    Taking a major step towards the ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Wednesday commenced the stacking of HLVM3, at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota.  

    The mission is slated for launch in 2025, and it will be the first uncrewed flight under the ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. The data gained will be instrumental for the success of the manned missions. 

    The date coincides with the 10th anniversary of the LVM3-X/CARE mission, conducted on December 18, 2014. 

    “On the 10th anniversary of LVM3-X/CARE, ISRO begins assembly of HLVM3 for Gaganyaan’s first un-crewed flight! A major step toward India’s maiden human spaceflight and future space ambitions,” ISRO said. 

    “At 8.45 Hrs on December 18 at SDSC, the stacking of the nozzle end segment with full flex seal nozzle of the S200 motor took place, thus commencing the official launch campaign of the HLVM3-G1 / OM-1 mission,” it added. 

    During the 2014 mission, LVM3-X (which is now christened HLVM3) launched its maiden flight and “lifted a Crew Module of mass of 3,775 kg (LVM3-X/CARE mission) into a suborbital altitude of 126 km”. 

    Using thrusters it was oriented for a favourable re-entry, and later made a smooth splash down in the Bay of Bengal. It was retrieved by the Indian Coast Guard. 

    The Crew Module was developed as part of pre-project activities of the Human Spaceflight Project, well before the official Gaganyaan project was approved in 2019. 

    “It is a fitting coincidence that 10 years later, on the same day, ISRO is gearing up for the first un-crewed mission of Gaganyaan, by commencing the stacking of human-rated LVM3,” the ISRO said. Dr. S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO Mission was then the Director of the LVM3-X/CARE mission. 

    The new HLVM3, derived from LVM3, is designed with enhanced reliability to meet human safety considerations. 

    Importantly, to ensure crew safety it also features a Crew Escape System (CES), which is operational from the launch pad till its separation. The crew can safely eject from the Crew Module in case of an adverse situation. 

    “HLVM3 is a three-stage vehicle with a payload capacity of about 10 tonnes to LEO. The vehicle is 53 metres tall and weighs 640 tonnes. The vehicle is getting ready for launch with the Crew Module and associated systems undergoing final checks at ISRO centres,” ISRO said. 

    The LVM3-X/CARE mission’s success helped ISRO to shape the human spaceflight programme. 

    The space agency noted that the foundational data provided by the CARE mission was useful in developing the “iterations in the Crew Module design of the Ganganyaan mission, along with subsequent pad abort tests, air-drop tests, and test vehicle flights”. 

    The new Crew Module, designed with enhanced safety margins and multiple redundancies, will fly aboard the Human-rated LVM3, ensuring the safety of the Gaganyatris, ISRO said. 

    Further, the Gaganyaan programme will also play a vital role in the construction and operationalisation of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). 

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