Daily Current Affairs MCQ Dt.24.06.2025 for UPSC ,SSC, State PCS and Competitive Exam.
1. Which technology is NOT a component of the recently piloted mobile-based...
Context: India has been actively participating in Japan’s prestigious Sakura Science Exchange Programme, which promotes international collaboration in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through short-term student and researcher exchange visits.
What is the Sakura Science Programme?
- Sakura Science Programme (SSP) is a Japanese government initiative launched in 2014.
- It is led by Japan’s Science and Technology Agency (JST) under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
- The programme offers short-term exchanges (typically 1–3 weeks) for young researchers, students, and officials from Asia and Africa to visit Japan’s top universities, research institutions, and industries.
Objectives of the Programme
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Promote Global Science Links | Foster cross-border collaboration in emerging scientific domains |
| Support Young Researchers | Provide exposure to advanced technologies and research facilities |
| Knowledge Transfer | Encourage learning in areas like robotics, AI, quantum, biotech |
| Strengthen Diplomatic Ties | Enhance Japan’s soft power and build global S&T networks |
India’s Participation
- India is one of the top participating countries in the SSP.
- Over 1,200 Indian students and researchers have visited Japan under this initiative since 2014.
- Key Indian partners:
- DST (Department of Science & Technology)
- IITs, CSIR labs, IISERs, NITs
- Indian scholars often engage in fields like:
- Robotics & AI
- Clean energy technologies
- Material sciences
- Quantum technologies
UPSC Relevance
| Exam Paper | Linkage |
|---|---|
| GS Paper 2 | International Relations – Soft Power, Science Diplomacy |
| GS Paper 3 | Science & Technology – Innovation Ecosystems |
| Prelims Focus | Government Initiatives, JST, Sakura Programme, MEXT |
Why It Matters
- Boosts India’s integration in global science networks
- Enhances bilateral ties with Japan through science diplomacy
- Prepares Indian students for cutting-edge global research
- Strengthens India’s STEM workforce and R&D capacities
- Aligns with India’s Science, Technology & Innovation Policy (STIP 2020)
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