Who is a Nihang?
Nihang is an order of Sikh warriors.
They are characterized by blue robes, antiquated arms such as swords and spears, and decorated turbans surmounted by steel quoits.
Etymologically the word nihang in Persian means an alligator, sword, and pen. The characteristics of Nihangs seem to stem more from the Sanskrit word nihshank. Which means without fear, unblemished, pure, carefree and indifferent to worldly gains and comfort.
Sources trace their origin to Guru Gobind Singh’s younger son, Fateh Singh (1699-1705). Who once appeared in the Guru’s presence dressed in a blue chola and blue turban. A dumala (a piece of cloth forming a plume) was also with him.
On seeing his son look so majestic, the Guru remarked that it shall be the dress of Nihangs,
slogans: ‘chhardi kala’ (forever in high spirits) and ‘tiar bar tiar’ (state of ever preparedness)
popular drink: shardai or sharbati degh (sacrament drink), sukhnidhan (treasure of comfort) and shaheedi deg with A higher dose of cannabis
Nihangs had a major role in defending the Sikh panth after the fall of the first Sikh rule (1710-15). When Mughal governors were killing Sikhs and during the onslaught of Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Durrani (1748-65).
What is a floor test?
Context: The Supreme Court has upheld Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon’s March decision.
A floor test is a determination on the floor of the House (in this case, the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha) whether the Chief Minister commands the support of the majority of the MLAs.
This can be done through a voice vote, or by recording the vote of each MLA in the House.
What is the pool testing of COVID-19?
Multiple samples of the suspected Coronavirus patients are now being examined in a single Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT PCR) test.
Stating that the number of COVID-19 cases in India is rising, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is now advising the feasibility of using pooled samples for molecular testing of patient samples.
A pooled testing algorithm involves the PCR screening of a specimen pool comprising multiple individual patient specimens, followed by individual testing (pool de-convolution) only if a pool screens positive. As all individual samples in a negative pool are regarded as negative, it results in substantial cost savings when a large proportion of pools tests negative.
What is Atal Innovation Mission?
Atal Innovation Mission housed at NITI Aayog is the Government of India’s flagship initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
- At the school level, AIM is establishing ATLs in all districts across India.
- AIM has selected a total of 14,916 schools across the country spread across 33 different states and union territories, for the establishment of ATLs.
US-India Missile Deal
The U.S. State Department has approved two potential missile deals with India, for an estimated $92 million and $63 million.
- AGM-84L Harpoon Block II air-launched missiles and related equipment – These missiles can be fitted onto Boeing’s 8-PI (Poseidon Eight India) maritime patrol aircraft and are intended to enhance India’s capability in anti-surface warfare while defending its sea lanes.
- The other deal contracted with Raytheon Integrated Defense System, is for
- MK 54 All Up Round Lightweight Torpedoes (LWT).
- MK 54 Exercise Torpedoes.
- Recoverable Exercise Torpedoes (REXTORP).
What is Fra Mauro formation?
The Fra Mauro formation (or Fra Mauro Highlands) is a formation on the near side of Earth’s Moon that served as the landing site for the American Apollo 14 mission in 1971.
- It is named after the 80-kilometer-diameter crater Fra Mauro, located within it.
- The formation, as well as Fra Mauro crater, take their names from a 15th-century Italian monk and mapmaker of the same name.