December 16, 2025 - Current Affairs

Google’s Project Suncatcher Aims to Scale AI Data Centres in Space

December 16, 2025

Google has launched the Project Suncatcher, a long-range research project that seeks to investigate the possibilities of AI data centers located in space, which are provided with an ample supply of solar energy. The project involves deploying solar-powered satellites equipped with Google-designed Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) into low-Earth orbit to determine whether AI computing can be sustainably performed outside of Earth's infrastructure. In a major advancement towards future space-based, scalable AI computational systems, Google aims to launch two prototype satellites by early 2027 in collaboration with Planet Labs, which could tap into continuous sunshine and eliminate the dependence on the power grid.

Key Highlights: Points of Google’s Project Suncatcher

The Project Suncatcher is an experimental project of Google to test AI data centres in space.

It is concerned with the solar-powered satellite implementation to sustainably execute AI workloads.

The intended project will involve the deployment of satellites that have Google-designed Tensor Processing Units (TPUs).

Low-Earth, sun-synchronous satellites will be used to provide near-contemporary solar energy.

The high-speed data transfer between space and the Earth will be made possible with the help of optical communication links.

The prototype satellites are proposed to be launched in early 2027 and will be used to test the feasibility.

PYQs had been Asked So Far

Question	Answer	Exam	Year
Who is the co-founder of Google?	Larry Page and Sergey Brin	SSC CGL	2019
Google was founded in which year?	1998	SSC CHSL	2020
Google’s parent company is called	Alphabet Inc.	SSC CPO	2021
Who is the CEO of Google (Google LLC)?	Sundar Pichai	SSC GD	2022
Google's headquarters is located at	Mountain View, California	RRB NTPC	2021
Alphabet Inc. was formed in which year?	2015	SSC MTS	2022
Google Chrome is a	Web browser	Banking PO	2020
The Android operating system was developed by	Google	SSC CHSL	2023

Expected MCQs About Google’s Project Suncatcher

Consider the following statements:

Project Suncatcher is part of Google’s long-term AI infrastructure research.
The project aims to completely replace Earth-based data centres by 2025.

Which of the statements is correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A. 1 only
The initiative is experimental and does not aim for the immediate replacement of ground data centres.

The main advantage of space-based AI data centres, as explored in Project Suncatcher, is:
A. Zero maintenance cost
B. Unlimited internet speed
C. Continuous access to solar power
D. Absence of hardware failures
Answer: C. Continuous access to solar power
Sun-synchronous orbits allow satellites to receive near-constant sunlight.

Which technology is planned to be used for AI computing in Project Suncatcher satellites?

A. GPUs from NVIDIA

B. Quantum processors

C. Google’s Tensor Processing Units (TPUs)

D. ARM processors

Answer: C. Google’s Tensor Processing Units (TPUs)

TPUs are Google’s custom chips designed specifically for AI and machine learning tasks.

Project Suncatcher aims to address which major challenge of Earth-based data centres?

A. Software licensing

B. Data privacy

C. Power and energy constraints

D. Internet bandwidth

Answer: C. Power and energy constraints

Space offers near-continuous solar energy, reducing dependence on terrestrial power grids.

Conclusion

Project Suncatcher by Google is an ambitious move to an environmentally-friendly AI infrastructure, as it investigates the use of space-based data centres. The project will use the power of constant sun rays and satellite computing in an attempt to alleviate the energy strain on the planet and re-conceptualize the way that large-scale AI workloads can be energized in the future.

India Launches Its First Indigenous 1.0 GHz Microprocessor DHRUV64

December 16, 2025

India has launched its first domestically developed 1.0 GHz, 64-bit, two-core microprocessor, which is the country's first 64-bit chip, named DHRUV64. This marks a significant milestone in India's semiconductor history. Fully designed and manufactured in India by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) as part of the Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP), DHRUV64 enhances the local processor ecosystem and reduces reliance on imported chips. Its deployment supports national initiatives such as the Digital India RISC-V Programme, aiming to make India a global hub for electronic system design and manufacturing. The future plan includes next-generation processors like Dhanush and Dhanush+.

DHRUV64 Microprocessor Marks Milestone in Atmanirbhar Bharat

DHRUV64 is the first native indigenous 1.0 GHz and 64-bit microprocessor made in India by C-DAC.
It greatly decreases the reliance on imported semiconductor technologies.
The chip favours the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission through domestic designing and innovation.
It is constructed as a part of the Microprocessor Development Programme and enhances the chip ecosystem of India.
DHRUV64 is capable of providing secure computing to strategic, civilian and industrial applications.
It provides the base for high-performance Indian processors and SoCs in the future.

Expected MCQs Based on DHRUV64 Microprocessor

DHRUV64 microprocessor is developed by which organization?

A. ISRO

B. DRDO

C. C-DAC

D. BEL

Answer: C. C-DAC

DHRUV64 is developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing under the MDP programme.

What is the clock speed of the DHRUV64 microprocessor?

A. 500 MHz

B. 800 MHz

C. 1.0 GHz

D. 2.0 GHz

Answer: C. 1.0 GHz

It is India’s first indigenous microprocessor to achieve 1.0 GHz speed.

Q3. DHRUV64 is based on which architecture?

A. ARM

B. x86

C. MIPS

D. RISC-V

Answer: D. RISC-V

DHRUV64 supports the open-source RISC-V architecture promoted under Digital India.

Q4. DHRUV64 is a ______ bit microprocessor.

A. 32-bit

B. 64-bit

C. 16-bit

D. 128-bit

Answer: B. 64-bit

It is a 64-bit dual-core processor designed for advanced computing needs.

Q5. Which national initiative is strengthened by the launch of DHRUV64?

A. Startup India

B. Make in India

C. Atmanirbhar Bharat

D. Skill India

Answer: C. Atmanirbhar Bharat

The processor reduces import dependence and boosts indigenous semiconductor capability.

Q6. DHRUV64 was developed under which programme?

A. Semiconductor Mission

B. Digital India Programme

C. Microprocessor Development Programme

D. National AI Mission

Answer: C. Microprocessor Development Programme

MDP aims to build an end-to-end indigenous microprocessor ecosystem in India.

Conclusion

DHRUV64 is a historic product in terms of semiconductor self-reliance in India. Being the first indigenous 1.0 GHz microprocessor in the country, it enhances Atmanirbhar Bharat, improves domestic chip design, and predicts a strong foundation in the future of high-performance computing and safe digital infrastructure in the country.

Andhra Pradesh Receives National Energy Conservation Award from President Murmu

December 16, 2025

Andhra Pradesh has also received the National Energy Conservation Award 2025, which was bestowed on it by President Droupadi Murmu during the National Energy Conservation Day in Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, in recognition of the excellent performance of the state in energy efficiency and conservation. Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission (APSECM) won the first category, Group II of the competition, as it has been working consistently over the years in the areas of buildings, industry, agriculture, transport, and municipal services. This is one of the success stories of the state that has led in ensuring energy-related savings programs, thus demonstrating its efforts towards sustainable development and effective management of energy in the country.

Andhra Pradesh Wins National Energy Conservation Award 2025

Andhra Pradesh has received the National Energy Conservation Award 2025 as a result of its excellent work in energy efficiency.
This was awarded by President Droupadi Murmu on National Energy Conservation Day.
In Group II, APSECM (Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission) was the winner.
The award shows the state's activity in the areas of industries, agriculture, transport, structures, and municipal services to save energy.
The award highlights the efforts by Andhra Pradesh to focus on sustainable development, the adoption of renewable energy, and effective energy management in the country.

Expected Question: National Energy Conservation Award

The National Energy Conservation Award is instituted by which organisation?
A. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
B. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)
C. NITI Aayog
D. Power Grid Corporation
Answer: B. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)
BEE administers the award to promote energy efficiency across industries and states.

Statement-based Question:

The National Energy Conservation Award recognises efforts in energy efficiency across industry, transport, buildings, and agriculture.
It is presented annually on National Energy Conservation Day.

Which statement is correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
The award highlights comprehensive energy-saving initiatives nationwide.

National Energy Conservation Day in India is observed on:
A. 11th December
B. 14th December
C. 18th December
D. 22nd December
Answer: B. 14th December
This day marks the efforts of individuals and organisations in promoting energy efficiency.

Which state has a dedicated mission called APSECM related to energy conservation?
A. Andhra Pradesh
B. Telangana
C. Gujarat
D. Kerala
Answer: A. Andhra Pradesh
APSECM (Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission) implemented initiatives that won the award.

The main objective of the National Energy Conservation Award is to:
A. Promote renewable energy installation
B. Recognise outstanding energy efficiency efforts
C. Provide financial assistance to industries
D. Promote nuclear energy
Answer: B. Recognise outstanding energy efficiency efforts
It motivates states, industries, and organisations to adopt energy-saving measures.

Conclusion

Andhra Pradesh was awarded the National Energy Conservation Award 2025, highlighting why this state is at the forefront in ensuring that its activities are energy-saving and sustainable. The achievement was recognised by President Droupadi Murmu, and it demonstrates the stance of the state on implementing renewable energy, conserving resources and the national agenda on having a more sustainable, more eco-friendly future.

India Ranks Among Most Overworked Countries Globally, Reveals ILO

December 16, 2025

The recent statistics provided by the International Labour Organization (ILO) show that India has become one of the overworked nations around the globe. The report notes that the average indian employee works an average of about 46.7 hours per week, with more than fifty percent of the workforce recording 49 and above hours per week, which is among the highest in the world. This has created a work-life balance issue and employee welfare, with debates on labour reforms and healthier working practices.

ILO Data Highlights India’s Long Working Hours Crisis

India is one of the most overworked nations in the world, and the level of average working hours per week are 46.7.
Indian employees work 49 or above hours per week, one of the highest in the world.
Increased working hours are associated with stress, health problems, and low productivity.
The trend is widely spread in both formal and informal spheres and has an impact on the work-life balance.
According to the ILO statistics, labour reforms, flexible work policies and improved workplace regulations are necessary to safeguard the employees.
Continual work overload poses a question of mental and physical health in the country.

Recently Asked Questions About the International Labour Organization (ILO)

Question	Answer	Exam	Year
When was the International Labour Organization (ILO) founded?	1919	UPSC	2021
Where is the headquarters of the ILO located?	Geneva, Switzerland	SSC CGL	2020
Which UN body oversees the International Labour Organization?	UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)	RRB NTPC	2019
What is the main objective of the ILO?	To promote labour rights, social protection, and decent work	SSC CHSL	2022
India became a member of ILO in which year?	1919	UPSC	2022
Which convention focuses on the elimination of forced labour?	ILO Convention No. 29	SSC GD	2021
ILO’s annual report is known as?	World Employment and Social Outlook (WESO)	SSC MTS	2023
Who is the current Director-General of the ILO?	Gilbert F. Houngbo	UPSC	2023
Which ILO initiative addresses overwork globally?	ILO Working Time Convention	RRB Group D	2022
The ILO won the Nobel Peace Prize in which year?	1969	SSC CPO	2020

Conclusion

India has been ranked as one of the most overworked nations in the world, and systems demonstrate that more work-life balance and labour reforms are necessary. The work long hours influences the health, productivity, and well-being of the employees. The structural, economic, and social aspects should be tackled to ensure that the working environment of the entire country is sustainable, fair, and healthy.