Current affairs 20 March 2025

ISRO Develops 32-bit Microprocessors for Space Applications.

• ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Chandigarh have developed two 32-bit microprocessors, Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201, for space applications.
• Vikram 3201 is India's first fully indigenous 32-bit microprocessor, qualified for use in launch vehicles.
• This processor advances from the 16-bit Vikram 1601, operational since 2009 in ISRO's avionics systems.

Trump Uses Alien Enemies Act to Speed Up Deportations.

• Trump invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan migrants with ties to the Tren de Aragua gang, despite a federal judge's order blocking the action.
• The law allows the president to expel foreign nationals defined as alien enemies during wartime or invasion.
• The move has led to a constitutional clash, with courts questioning the president's authority.

Cabinet Approves Incentive Scheme for Low-Value BHIM-UPI Transactions.

• The Cabinet approved an incentive scheme for low-value BHIM-UPI transactions (P2M) for small merchants, with a budget of Rs. 1,500 crore for FY 2024-25.
• Small merchants will receive a 0.15% incentive for transactions up to Rs. 2,000, supporting the government's goal of a less cash economy.
• The scheme promotes UPI adoption in rural areas & ensures efficient, round-the-clock payment services.

Indian Student Uses CBP App for Self-Deportation from US.

• Rajani Srinivasan, an Indian student, became one of the first to use the CBP Home App for self-deportation after her F-1 visa was revoked.
• The app, introduced by the Trump administration, facilitates voluntary exit for undocumented immigrants.
• The app simplifies the process of filing a notice of intent to leave the US, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to formal deportation.

SEBI Partners with DigiLocker to Reduce Unclaimed Assets.

• SEBI collaborated with DigiLocker to enable investors to store demat and mutual fund holdings, reducing unclaimed assets in the Indian securities market.
• The initiative includes a nomination facility for legal heirs, allowing smooth asset transition upon the investor's demise.
• KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs) will verify and notify nominees, ensuring seamless access to financial information.