Why in the News?
China has announced plans to build the world’s first hybrid fusion-fission nuclear plant named Xinghuo by 2030, aiming for a Q factor above 30 and a power output of 100 MW.

360° Info:
The Xinghuo project merges fusion and fission technologies to maximize energy efficiency. Fusion reactors produce abundant neutrons but less power, while fission reactors produce power but are neutron-limited. A hybrid system uses fusion neutrons to sustain fission and breed fuel from uranium-238 or thorium-232, enhancing fuel supply and reducing long-lived nuclear waste. 

Why in the News?
India has taken a major step towards constructing its first home-built Polar Research Vessel (PRV) through an MoU between GRSE and Norway’s Kongsberg, bolstering polar capabilities and shipbuilding.

360° Info:
The PRV will support India’s scientific missions in the Arctic and Antarctica, including Maitri, Bharati, and Himadri research stations. It will be equipped with advanced oceanographic tools for marine ecosystem research and deep-sea exploration. The vessel will be operated by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa. This project aligns with India’s larger maritime goals under SAGAR, MAHASAGAR, and Sagarmala 2.0

Why in the News?
The Supreme Court, in Nandini Sundar & Ors. vs. State of Chhattisgarh, ruled that laws enacted by legislatures—even if contradictory to past court orders—do not amount to Contempt of Court (CoC).

360° Info:
Legislatures can overturn judgments via legal amendments without contempt (Articles 129, 215). Contempt means disrespecting or disobeying court authority (Contempt of Courts Act, 1971). Free speech can be limited to prevent contempt under Article 19(2), with safeguards for fair criticism and accurate reporting.