Global Report on Trafficking in Persons 2024 has been released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). 

Key Findings 

• In 2022, the number of known victims worldwide rose to 25% above 2019’s pre-pandemic levels
• Women and girls account for the majority of victims (61 % in 2022).

About UNODC (1997)

• It is a UN agency that leads global efforts against illicit drugs, organized crime, and terrorism. 
• HQ: Vienna (Austria).

Kaveri engine, developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment under DRDO, has been cleared for inflight testing, marking a major step in India’s aerospace self-reliance.

About Kaveri Engine project

• Initiation: The Kaveri engine project began in the late 1980s to power the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
  • Later, DRDO focused on developing a dry version of the Kaveri engine for UAV applications.
• Current Capability: The dry Kaveri engine produces 49-51 kN of thrust, suitable for UAVs like the Ghatak stealth UCAV.
• Significance: Marks a strategic achievement, enhancing India’s self-reliance in aero-engine technology.

Russia is set to deploy the RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, known as ‘Satan 2’

About Satan 2

• It is a next-generation intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) considered one of the most powerful nuclear weapons globally.
• Equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-Entry Vehicles (MIRVs), allowing it to strike multiple targets simultaneously.
• The missile also has a range of 10000- 18,000 km and can carry a 10 ton payload. 

Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) develops an advanced version of SARAT.

• It will enhance accuracy and support Indian Search and Rescue (SAR) agencies, like Indian Coast Guard, in sea operations.

About SARAT

• Developed under Make in India in 2016, it aims to facilitate search and rescue operations at sea, locating individuals or vessels in distress quickly.
• This tool is also available as a mobile application for the users.

About INCOIS

• Genesis: Established as an autonomous body in 1999 under Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
• Mandate: To provide best possible ocean information and advisory services to society.
• Activities: Provides round-the-clock monitoring and warning services for coastal population on tsunamis, storm surges, high waves, etc.