Daily Current Affairs : 16-April-2024

India has made an exciting addition to its presence in Antarctica by inaugurating a new post office at the Bharati research station. This occasion coincides with the 24th Foundation Day of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) in Goa. The establishment of this post office is significant, as it highlights India’s ongoing research and engagement in the polar regions.

The New Post Office

With the opening of the post office at Bharati, letters can now be sent from one of the most remote locations on Earth. Here are some key details:

  • New PIN Code: The Bharati post office has been assigned a unique PIN code—MH-1718.
  • Part of Goa Postal Division: This post office is integrated into the Goa postal division, which helps in maintaining communication.
  • Sending and Cancelling Letters: This facility allows for letters to be sent and officially ‘cancelled’ from Antarctica, which is a remarkable achievement.

Importance of the Post Office

The establishment of a post office in Antarctica holds significant importance for India:

  • Assertion of Presence: It reaffirms India’s presence on the Antarctic continent.
  • Support for Research: This facility supports researchers by enabling better communication and connection with the outside world.

Bharati Research Station

The Bharati research station was opened in 2012 and is India’s third Antarctic station, following Maitri and Dakshin Gangotri. Located near the Larsemann Hills, it focuses on:

  • Oceanographic Studies: Researchers conduct important studies related to oceanic conditions.
  • Geological History: The station also delves into the geological history of the Indian subcontinent, which is crucial for understanding climate and environmental changes.

Important Points:

New Post Office Opening: A post office was inaugurated at Bharati research station in Antarctica.

Foundation Day Celebration: The opening coincided with the 24th Foundation Day of NCPOR in Goa.

Unique PIN Code: The post office has been assigned the PIN code MH-1718.

Integration with Goa Postal Division: It is part of the Goa postal division, facilitating communication.

Sending and Cancelling Letters: Allows letters to be sent and officially cancelled from Antarctica.

Assertion of Presence: Reinforces India’s presence on the Antarctic continent.

Support for Researchers: Enhances communication and connection for researchers in Antarctica.

Bharati Research Station: Opened in 2012, it is India’s third Antarctic station.

Focus Areas: Conducts oceanographic studies and explores the geological history of the Indian subcontinent.

Significance: Highlights India’s commitment to polar research and global scientific collaboration.

Why In News

India Post recently inaugurated a post office at its Bharati station in Antarctica, coinciding with the 24th Foundation Day of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) in Goa. This addition enhances India’s communication capabilities in the region and builds on the existing post offices at Dakshin Gangotri Station, established in 1984, and Maitri Station, set up in 1990, reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to polar research and presence.

MCQs about India Post’s New Initiative in Antarctica

  1. What significant event coincided with the inauguration of the new post office at Bharati station in Antarctica?
    A. Launch of a new research project
    B. 24th Foundation Day of NCPOR
    C. Establishment of Maitri Station
    D. Opening of a new research vessel
    Correct Answer: B. 24th Foundation Day of NCPOR
    Explanation: The inauguration of the post office coincided with the 24th Foundation Day of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) in Goa.
  2. What is the unique PIN code assigned to the new post office at Bharati station?
    A. MH-1719
    B. MH-1717
    C. MH-1718
    D. MH-1720
    Correct Answer: C. MH-1718
    Explanation: The Bharati post office has been assigned the unique PIN code MH-1718.
  3. What are the primary focus areas of research at the Bharati research station?
    A. Marine biology and climate change
    B. Oceanographic studies and geological history
    C. Astronomy and astrophysics
    D. Renewable energy technologies
    Correct Answer: B. Oceanographic studies and geological history
    Explanation: Bharati station focuses on oceanographic studies and exploring the geological history of the Indian subcontinent.
  4. How does the establishment of the post office at Bharati station benefit researchers?
    A. It allows for quicker shipping of supplies.
    B. It enables better communication with the outside world.
    C. It provides accommodations for scientists.
    D. It offers transportation to other countries.
    Correct Answer: B. It enables better communication with the outside world.
    Explanation: The post office supports researchers by facilitating communication and connection with the outside world.

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