[Newsbits] 15-29.08.2024: Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Whitetopping Technology & More

Summary: The Union Cabinet has approved the development of 12 new industrial smart cities, with a budget of ₹28,602 crore. Aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing, the project is aligned with the “Viksit Bharat” vision and follows PM GatiShakti principles for sustainable and balanced development. These cities will offer ready-to-use facilities and promote a “Walk-to-Work” model to enhance work-life balance. Expected to generate significant employment and attract ₹1.5 lakh crore in private investment, this initiative is set to drive economic growth, strengthen the manufacturing sector, and contribute to India’s GDP.

Summary: ISRO’s 2025 Gaganyaan mission will feature Vyomitra, an AI-based humanoid robot designed to assist in space tasks and monitor spacecraft systems. Vyomitra, made with advanced materials like AlSi10Mg and using additive manufacturing, will act as a prototype to gather data on the effects of space travel and support future crewed missions. This mission marks a significant step in ISRO’s journey towards human space exploration, building on its legacy of achievements such as the Mars Orbiter Mission and the PSLV program.

The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is an intergovernmental organization of 18 Pacific nations, established in 1971 to promote economic growth, political cooperation, and regional security. The 2024 annual meeting in Tonga focuses on climate change, which poses existential threats to member countries, and the geopolitical competition between China and the US in the Pacific. The Forum seeks to enhance climate action and manage the delicate balance between these global powers while continuing to strengthen regional unity and development efforts.

Whitetopping Technology involves overlaying existing bituminous roads with Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) to extend the lifespan of roads, reduce maintenance, and improve performance. Proposed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to upgrade India’s aging national highways, this technology offers benefits such as better road durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental advantages. MoRTH is seeking stakeholder feedback to refine the policy and ensure its effective implementation.

Food traceability refers to the ability to track food from its origin to consumption, ensuring safety, especially during disease outbreaks. Post-COVID concerns have heightened the demand for such transparency, with India focusing on strict food safety regulations enforced by the FSSAI. Traceability not only reduces food waste by identifying supply chain issues but also helps prevent allergic reactions by ensuring clear labeling. Organizations like CII, FACE, and APEDA play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and enhancing food safety, particularly in exports.

A study by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) found that using nano diammonium phosphate (DAP) instead of traditional DAP led to a 16.1% decrease in wheat yields. The study also showed reduced plant growth and lower nutrient uptake with nano DAP. Despite government promotion of nano DAP as a cost-effective alternative, the study raises concerns about its effectiveness in supporting sustainable agriculture. More research is needed to understand the long-term impact of nano fertilizers on crop productivity and soil health, highlighting the need for a careful reevaluation of India’s fertilizer strategies.

A study led by Riya K. Alex at Cochin University reveals the widespread presence of microplastics, particularly polyethylene (PE), in Indian personal care products (PCPs). The study analyzed 45 products, finding that microbeads, often invisible to the naked eye, make up an average of 1.34% of product weight, with shower gels containing the largest amounts. These microplastics pose significant environmental risks as they enter the food chain and absorb pollutants, while the unclear regulations in India and the practice of greenwashing exacerbate the issue. The study warns of increasing microbead pollution by 2030, raising serious concerns about public health and environmental sustainability.

The Himachal Pradesh government has launched the ‘Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana,’ allocating Rs 53.21 crore annually to support vulnerable families, including widows, divorced women, and parents with disabilities. The scheme provides a monthly grant of Rs 1,000 per child under 18 for education, health, and nutrition, along with additional financial aid for higher education. Eligible applicants must have a family income of Rs 1 lakh or less. The program, inspired by a similar initiative in Haryana, aims to create a supportive environment for children’s education and well-being.

The Philippines has accused China of aggressive actions in the South China Sea, escalating tensions between the two nations. This dispute centers on conflicting territorial claims in the region, particularly China’s assertion of the “Nine-Dash Line,” which covers about 90% of the sea. Despite a 2016 international tribunal ruling against China’s claims, China has continued to assert control, including building military bases on artificial islands. The situation involves global powers like the U.S., which seeks to maintain regional stability, and raises concerns about the potential for a larger confrontation.

Solar paraboloid technology uses a Parabolic Trough Collector (PTC) system with curved mirrors to focus sunlight onto a tube, generating heat and electricity more efficiently than traditional solar panels. Operating at temperatures up to 300°C, this technology offers higher efficiency but faces challenges due to high setup costs and complex infrastructure. While still in its early stages, solar paraboloids have the potential to revolutionize renewable energy, contributing significantly to global sustainability goals. Continued research, innovation, and supportive policies are essential for this technology to become cost-competitive and widely adopted by 2050.

A recent study led by Ewan Macdonald from Oxford University, published on August 21, 2024, highlights the urgent need for better protection of Sunda clouded leopards in Borneo. With the population reduced to around 3,800 due to habitat loss from deforestation, the study reveals that current protected areas often miss critical habitats. By focusing on high-risk areas, protection could increase leopard habitats by 53% and save 82 million tonnes of carbon. The study recommends implementing financial incentives like REDD+ and stricter regulations to combat deforestation, urging collaboration among governments, conservationists, and local communities.

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme, a major initiative to strengthen India’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem. With a budget of Rs 10,579.84 crore for 2021-22 to 2025-26, ‘Vigyan Dhara’ combines three major science schemes into one unified framework. The scheme focuses on enhancing STI infrastructure, supporting research and development, and advancing new technologies. It aims to contribute to India’s long-term development vision for 2047 by promoting diverse research, improving human resources, and boosting international collaboration in the science sector.

Summary: India successfully launched its first reusable hybrid rocket, Rhumi-1, on August 24, 2024, from Thiruvidanthai, Chennai, as part of Mission Rhumi. This mission, a collaboration between Space Zone India and Martin Group, represents a major technological advancement in India’s space exploration efforts. Rhumi-1, equipped with a hybrid propulsion system, deployed three cube satellites and 50 Pico satellites, showcasing its capabilities. The mission also emphasized education through the ‘Edutech for Space’ programme, involving young students like 13-year-old Satrajit Samy, aiming to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts and promote widespread space education across India.

Summary: INS Mumbai, a Delhi-class destroyer of the Indian Navy, is set to make its maiden visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka, from August 26 to 29, 2024. This visit highlights the strengthening naval cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, with key activities including the delivery of spare parts for the Sri Lankan Air Force’s Dornier aircraft and joint exercises with the Sri Lankan Navy. The visit underscores India’s commitment to regional security and the growing partnership between the two nations in maritime security.

Summary: The Union Cabinet of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the BioE3 policy on August 25, 2024. The “Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment” (BioE3) policy aims to integrate biotechnology into traditional supply chains to enhance sustainability, drive economic growth, and create new jobs. The policy focuses on technological development, recycling innovations, and fostering integrated research networks. It is expected to position India as a global leader in biomanufacturing, creating over 8,000 biotechnology startups and contributing significantly to India’s GDP by 2047. The BioE3 policy envisions a sustainable and innovative future by addressing critical global challenges like climate change and resource depletion.

India and Indonesia recently condemned Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism, specifically targeting Jammu and Kashmir, during their sixth joint working group meeting on counter-terrorism in Jakarta. The meeting focused on strategies to tackle terrorism, including addressing the misuse of technology and enhancing international cooperation. Both nations emphasized the need for stronger bilateral and global efforts to combat terrorism and improve regional security. The delegations were led by K D Dewal from India and Andhika Chrisnayudhanto from Indonesia, who discussed the importance of sharing information and working together in forums like the UN and ASEAN.

India and Denmark have launched the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) project as part of their Environmental Strategic Partnership. The initiative focuses on restoring the Varuna River, which flows through Varanasi and is considered sacred in Hinduism. Funded by India’s Ministry of Jal Shakti and Denmark, the project uses advanced technology, real-time monitoring, and hydrogeological modeling to improve river health, enhance local communities’ economies, and address pollution. The collaborative effort aims for sustainable river management and highlights the importance of teamwork among governments, universities, and local communities.

India is hosting the first-ever World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Goa from November 20-24, 2024, organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. This global event aims to strengthen India’s position in the Media and Entertainment (M&E) industry by focusing on entertainment economics, new technologies, and international partnerships. The rise of OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime has allowed Indian content to reach global audiences, positioning India as a significant hub for media production. During the summit, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will launch the ‘Create in India Challenge,’ with 25 new initiatives to encourage innovation in the sector. The summit is expected to boost India’s economy, showcase its culture globally, and enhance international collaborations, despite challenges such as maintaining quality and retaining talent.

The United States has approved a $52.8 million sale of sonobuoys to India, designed to enhance India’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities, especially in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions. This sale includes various types of sonobuoys, along with technical support. The deal reflects the strategic partnership between the two countries, aimed at boosting defense cooperation and ensuring regional stability. While the equipment will strengthen India’s naval operations, particularly with MH-60R helicopters, the sale could also impact the military balance in the region. The United States and India are committed to maintaining peace and stability, with the sale being part of a broader strategy to fortify ties and support security in South Asia.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has banned the use of “A1” and “A2” labels on dairy products, such as milk and butter, to prevent misleading health claims. These labels refer to different types of beta-casein proteins found in milk, with A2 marketed as a healthier option. However, scientific evidence remains inconclusive, leading FSSAI to act. Dairy producers must comply within six months. This move aims to protect consumers and ensure labeling accuracy while prompting more research into the health effects of these proteins.

The Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT) are urging the Sikkim government to decommission controversial hydropower projects, including the NHPC Stage V and III dams, following a landslide near Singtam that caused significant damage. ACT attributes the landslide to tunnels created for the Teesta Stage V project, raising concerns about the environmental and safety impacts of these hydropower developments. They call for a reassessment of the region’s reliance on hydropower and advocate for the cancellation of the NHPC 520 MW Stage IV project. The debate highlights the negative consequences of the dams, including displacement, infrastructure damage, and environmental degradation, despite the projects being promoted as eco-friendly.

India and the US recently discussed energy cooperation during a high-level meeting between Union Power Minister Manohar Lal and John Podesta, a senior adviser to the US President. The talks focused on enhancing clean energy initiatives, including grid modernization, manufacturing capacity, energy storage systems, and energy efficiency. The discussions highlighted the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP) and the commitment of both nations to work together on a sustainable energy future. Continued collaboration, technical exchanges, and investment-driven partnerships are central to deepening this bilateral cooperation and achieving clean energy goals.

Non-native species pose a significant threat to Antarctic marine ecosystems, primarily due to climate change, increased shipping, and human-made debris. These species, such as southern bull kelp, can outcompete native species and disrupt the region’s unique biodiversity. Research shows that floating debris from nearby and distant regions could carry organisms to Antarctica, making it critical to monitor and address these threats to protect the fragile Antarctic environment.

The southern region of Madeira, an island in Portugal, has been severely impacted by wildfires that have burned more than 5,000 hectares of forest, threatening the unique UNESCO-protected laurel forest. The fires started on August 14, 2024, and quickly spread across the island due to high temperatures and strong coastal winds. Firefighters are struggling to contain the flames, particularly in remote areas with difficult terrain. Evacuations of over 160 people have occurred, and tourists, a crucial part of Madeira’s economy, have been stranded. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely, with efforts focused on protecting populated areas and minimizing further damage.

A recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed that unemployed adults in India face a significantly higher risk of heart disease, influenced by factors like high blood sugar and obesity. The study, involving 4,500 adults aged 40-69, found that men are twice as likely as women to have elevated heart disease risks, with urban populations showing higher vulnerability compared to rural ones. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health strategies addressing unemployment, lifestyle changes due to urbanization, and healthcare access, especially in rural areas.

The Ulchi Freedom Shield 24 Exercise, held from August 19 to 23, 2024, is a major annual joint military drill between the U.S. and South Korea, focusing on strengthening military preparedness and operational readiness. This year’s exercise includes the 51st Fighter Wing (FW) at Osan Air Base integrating its readiness drills, emphasizing air combat, agile combat employment, and command and control. The exercise reinforces the U.S.-South Korea defense partnership and highlights their ability to respond quickly to regional security threats, ensuring peace and stability in the Pacific region.

Sri Lanka has introduced a new visa-free policy for citizens from 35 countries, starting on October 1, 2024, for an initial six-month period. The policy aims to attract more tourists, simplify travel, and boost the country’s economy by capitalizing on tourism, which is a key sector for Sri Lanka. This initiative also seeks to strengthen international relations and build upon existing visa-free policies for several nations. While the policy offers economic and diplomatic benefits, challenges include managing the expected surge in tourists, monitoring compliance, and determining long-term sustainability.

Researchers have developed a miniature CRISPR tool, TnpB, for plant genome editing, addressing the challenges posed by the large size of traditional CRISPR proteins like Cas9 and Cas12. Derived from the bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans, TnpB is more effective due to its smaller size and precise editing capabilities, with a success rate of 33.58% in plants. Alongside TnpB, a hybrid base editor was created to expand editing possibilities. Although early results are promising, further research is needed to confirm the tool’s effectiveness in different crops, potentially leading to stronger, more nutritious plants capable of adapting to climate change.

The Type 1 Diabetes Grand Challenge, supported by the Steve Morgan Foundation, Diabetes UK, and JDRF, announced £2.7 million in funding for six global research projects. These initiatives, launched on August 12, 2024, focus on developing advanced insulin therapies that mimic the pancreas’s natural function, improving blood sugar control. Key research includes creating Glucose Responsive Insulins (GRIs), ultrafast insulins, and combining insulin with glucagon therapy. Researchers from institutions in Australia, the U.S., and China aim to address challenges in current insulin treatments, providing hope for better diabetes management.

Kerala has launched KITE GNU Linux 22.04, a customized version of Ubuntu designed specifically for public schools, to enhance digital education in the state. The free operating system replaces costly licensed software, saving the state ₹3,000 crore and providing access to a wide range of educational applications, including AI tools and Malayalam language support. The initiative, spearheaded by KITE and officially launched by Minister V. Sivankutty on August 23, 2024, aims to deploy the OS across 300,000 school computers, accompanied by training for school IT coordinators.

The First Policy Makers’ Forum Summit, launched by Union Minister J.P. Nadda in New Delhi, introduced key digital healthcare tools to enhance drug safety in India. The Indian Pharmacopoeia Online Portal provides easy access to drug standards, while the Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring System (ADRMS) enables real-time tracking of medication issues. This initiative reflects India’s commitment to digitizing healthcare and ensuring the safety and affordability of medicines. The forum, involving policymakers from 15 countries, will continue until August 2024, aiming to improve global healthcare collaboration.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Mukhyamantri Bal Paushtik Aahar Yojana, an initiative to provide additional nutrition to schoolchildren in government schools, supplementing the existing midday meal scheme. The program targets children from nursery to Class 8 across 15,181 schools, offering them boiled eggs or fruits once a week. The scheme, with an allocated budget of Rs 12.75 crore, aims to combat malnutrition and improve educational outcomes. The government also focuses on modernizing education through digital tools for teachers and a three-tier strategy for overall education enhancement, including funding, international exposure for teachers, and day-boarding schools.

The India-Japan 2+2 Summit is a key diplomatic dialogue focusing on strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Japan, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This dialogue reflects both nations’ commitment to enhancing security cooperation, driven by shared concerns over China’s growing influence and military activities. The partnership spans defence, economic collaboration, cybersecurity, and disaster relief. The dialogue underscores the importance of maintaining regional stability and aligning both countries’ strategies with global democratic values, while also promoting India’s “Act East” policy and Japan’s vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

The Dhangars, a nomadic shepherd community in Maharashtra, are demanding a “grazing corridor” to protect their traditional herding routes, which are vital for their livelihood and cultural practices. Their demand is linked to long-standing conflicts with the Forest Department, which has restricted access to these routes by designating protected forests. The community also seeks Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which would provide them with reservation benefits but faces resistance from existing ST communities. With significant political influence in Maharashtra, the Dhangars aim to secure policy changes that recognize their rights and address their ongoing struggles.

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has opened applications for the Australia-India Agritech Program under the RISE Accelerator. This nine-month program invites Indian and Australian startups and small businesses to develop climate-smart agritech solutions, focusing on improving farming methods, building climate resilience, and expanding internationally. Participants will receive market insights, mentorship, grants, and opportunities to conduct field trials. This program promotes Indo-Australian collaboration in sustainable agriculture. Applications close on September 15, 2024.

The Union Cabinet has approved three major Metro projects in India to enhance urban transportation: Bengaluru Metro Phase-3, Thane Integral Ring Metro, and Pune Metro Extension, with a combined cost of ₹30,765.5 crore. These projects aim to reduce urban congestion, improve public transportation, and promote sustainability through eco-friendly designs. Key features include advanced tunneling for Bengaluru, energy-efficient trains for Thane, and extensive connectivity for Pune. The projects are expected to serve millions of passengers by 2045, boosting urban mobility, reducing travel times, and stimulating economic growth.

Forests in Khandwa and North Betul, Central India, face a growing risk of fires due to a combination of human activities, such as burning undergrowth for resource harvesting, and natural factors like flammable tree species. A study published in August 2024 highlights an increasing trend in forest fires, with Khandwa seeing a rise of three fires per year and North Betul one per year. Predictive modeling identifies the most vulnerable areas, emphasizing the need for targeted fire management and community education. Immediate action is required to safeguard these forests and the biodiversity and cultural heritage they support.

India is set to launch a new electric microcar named “Robin” in April 2025, designed by the startup Wings EV. Robin, a two-seater electric vehicle, will be launched first in Bengaluru, with plans for nationwide expansion. The car will come in three variants, offering different features and price points, and aims to promote eco-friendly travel and reduce urban traffic congestion. Priced affordably between ₹2 to ₹3 lakh, Robin is expected to attract customers moving away from two-wheelers. The startup has conducted extensive market research and plans to produce 3,000 units in its first year, scaling up to 10,000 units at their Indore factory.

New Zealand is proposing new legislation to modernize its gene technology laws, aiming to make it easier to develop and use gene technologies like gene editing. The initiative, led by Minister Judith Collins, seeks to update current regulations that make research difficult and slow. Proposed changes include exemptions for low-risk gene editing techniques, removal of local bans on GMOs, and the establishment of a new regulatory body. These updates are expected to improve health outcomes, enhance climate adaptation, and boost economic growth. However, challenges like ethical concerns and public resistance remain. The process is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Researchers at Lund University in Sweden have developed PrecivityAD2, a new blood test that detects Alzheimer’s disease with 90% accuracy. This test simplifies early diagnosis by analyzing key Alzheimer’s-related proteins in blood samples, offering a less invasive and more affordable alternative to traditional methods like PET scans and lumbar punctures. Early detection is crucial to managing Alzheimer’s, which affects millions worldwide. Despite its promise, the test’s availability may vary by region, and further validation is necessary to ensure its global applicability.

Parvovirus B19, discovered in 1975, is a highly contagious virus primarily affecting children. It causes the fifth disease, known for a distinctive red rash on the face. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and can cause flu-like symptoms, joint pain, and anemia, especially in those with blood disorders or weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are at particular risk due to potential fetal complications. Currently, there is no vaccine, and treatment focuses on symptom relief. Health authorities have noted a recent increase in cases in the U.S. and Europe, emphasizing the need for better awareness and preventive measures.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2024, due to a significant rise in cases, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Mpox, a viral disease, mainly affects Central and West Africa but is now spreading in new regions due to a new strain called clade 1b. WHO has initiated response efforts, including funding and vaccines, but challenges remain in healthcare infrastructure and global coordination. The declaration under the International Health Regulations (IHR) aims to boost international cooperation and prevent a broader outbreak.

Archaeologists have discovered what may be the world’s oldest known Sun-and-Moon calendar at Göbekli Tepe, Turkey. Carved into a stone pillar and estimated to be nearly 13,000 years old, this calendar demonstrates early humans’ advanced understanding of solar and lunar cycles, including 365 symbols representing days and adjustments for lunar months. The site, which dates to 9600 BCE, features intricate carvings and offers profound insights into prehistoric timekeeping, cultural practices, and the impact of climate events like a major comet strike around 10,850 B.C. This discovery reshapes our understanding of early societies and their complex knowledge systems.

The Maharashtra government has officially protected ancient geoglyphs and petroglyphs in Ratnagiri under the Maharashtra Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1960. These prehistoric artworks, including large earth designs and rock carvings, date back thousands of years and provide valuable insights into ancient ecosystems and human life. With over 1,500 artworks spread across 70 sites, some of which are on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list, the move aims to preserve these cultural treasures. However, proposed industrial developments, like an oil refinery in Barsu, pose significant risks to these heritage sites, prompting ongoing efforts to balance preservation with economic growth.

On August 13, 2024, India’s DRDO successfully tested the Gaurav long-range glide bomb using a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet. Weighing 1,000 kg, this advanced air-launched weapon is designed for precision targeting over long distances, using sophisticated navigation systems. Developed by the Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad, this test demonstrates India’s growing self-reliance in defence technology. The project involved key private sector partners, including Adani Defence and Bharat Forge. With radar-evading capabilities, Gaurav strengthens India’s military arsenal, showcasing progress in indigenous defence innovation.

The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission is a collaborative effort between NASA and ISRO, aiming to monitor environmental changes and natural hazards through advanced radar technology. Despite recent delays, mainly due to satellite orbit issues and necessary antenna adjustments, the mission remains highly significant for global climate research and disaster management. The radar will track changes in ecosystems, ice sheet stability, and provide crucial data for natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. Efforts continue to finalize antenna adjustments and set a new launch date after February 2025, highlighting the strong partnership between NASA and ISRO.