[Newsbits] 25-31.10.2024: PM-YASASVI Scheme, ULPIN & more

Brazil has opted out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), joining India as the second BRICS country to make this decision. Citing sovereignty and autonomy concerns, Brazil’s government aims to control its infrastructure priorities while still seeking strategic, non-binding partnerships with China. The decision marks a shift towards balanced collaboration and could influence other BRICS countries’ approaches to the BRI. Brazil’s choice highlights a move towards a more independent, diversified investment strategy, potentially reshaping its global economic role.

The Climate and Health Africa Conference (CHAC 2024), held in Harare, Zimbabwe, brings together 400+ leaders from 54 African countries to address climate-related health challenges. With themes like climate impact on health, equitable research, and adaptive policies, CHAC 2024 aims to create scientific publications, an African Health and Climate Declaration, and secure funding for resilience initiatives. Hosted by CeSHHAR, the event highlights Africa’s high climate vulnerability, aiming to foster collaborative health policies and research under the theme “Cultivating Resilience in Health.”

Mount Fuji recorded its latest snowless date in history in October 2024, reflecting shifting seasonal patterns attributed to unusually warm weather and potential climate change impacts. Snowfall, typically seen by early October, is crucial for the mountain’s ecosystem and tourism appeal. Warm summers and high temperatures into autumn have delayed snowfall, creating environmental concerns for the flora and fauna reliant on seasonal snow. Mount Fuji’s regulatory changes for climbers, aimed at reducing overtourism, also saw fewer visitors this season. This snowless condition underscores broader climate change impacts, with implications for future weather patterns globally.

Aandhi village in Jaipur district is implementing a zero-waste model using green technology to convert food, agricultural, and medical waste into resources. Key innovations include an Organic Waste Bio-Methanation Plant, Vermifiltration for wastewater, and Constructed Wetlands for eco-friendly filtration. This community-led initiative aligns with India’s environmental goals, emphasizing waste-to-wealth models and sustainability. With active local involvement, the project aims to inspire other rural areas to adopt sustainable waste management practices, setting a precedent for a cleaner and self-sustaining future.

India’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), in partnership with FAO and USAID, launched Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines (SVTGs) to standardize animal health care. Designed for veterinarians, these digital guidelines cover large and small ruminants, poultry, and other livestock, detailing disease treatment options, vaccination schedules, and responsible antibiotic use to counter antimicrobial resistance. Updated every 2-3 years, SVTGs aim to enhance animal health nationwide and support policy and budget allocation for veterinary services, reinforcing India’s commitment to rationalized animal healthcare.

The Indian Navy’s Swavlamban 2024 Innovation Seminar, held in New Delhi, marks a push for local innovation in defence through collaboration with private sectors. Key technologies displayed include autonomous systems, AI, and surveillance advancements, while the iDEX scheme supports start-up engagement in defence projects. This third edition features 115 exhibitors, emphasizes young entrepreneurs’ role, and showcases results from past initiatives, with over 2,000 proposals leading to 155 prototypes. Swavlamban 2024 aims to enhance India’s self-reliance in defence technology, strengthening both national security and the economy.

India’s first biomanufacturing institute, BRIC-NABI, launched on October 30, 2024, promotes innovation in the agri-food sector through advanced biotechnology. Aligned with the BioE3 policy and Viksit Bharat vision, it aims to support sustainable farming, boost farmer incomes, and enable eco-friendly production methods. Key features include the BioNest Incubation Centre, which supports startups, and research focused on high-yield crops and biopesticides. The initiative encourages private sector investment, addresses brain drain, and strengthens India’s global scientific presence. An upcoming workshop in December 2024 will focus on biomanufacturing across multiple sectors.

The clouded leopard, which became extinct in Taiwan due to poaching, habitat loss, and prey depletion, could soon be reintroduced. Recent studies show that 38% of Taiwan’s land is suitable for the species, with 46% of this area already protected. Conservation efforts, led by the Clouded Leopard Association of Taiwan with international collaboration, aim to restore the population by reintroducing the species into its former habitat. These plans are supported by habitat recovery and a hunting ban, providing hope for the re-establishment of the clouded leopard in Taiwan.

The Pune Forest Department has proposed the Mizo-Carnivorous Conservation Project, aimed at conserving five species—wolf, jackal, fox, civet, and hyena—facing threats from habitat loss, pollution, and conflicts with stray dogs. The project takes a species-specific approach and includes establishing a wolf breeding center. This initiative involves three phases: data collection, threat analysis, and developing mitigation strategies. It represents a critical effort to restore populations and protect these species from further decline.

The United States, Japan, and South Korea launched the Digital Infrastructure Growth Initiative (DiGi Framework) to enhance India’s digital infrastructure. In partnership with India’s private sector, this framework aims to develop key areas such as 5G, optical fiber, telecom towers, and smart city technologies. Financial institutions like the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), and Korea Eximbank are collaborating to promote high-quality investments in these sectors. This initiative supports India’s digital economy and fosters global cooperation.

The Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions, is under serious threat from fossil fuel expansion, as highlighted in a report presented at COP16. Over 100 operational offshore oil and gas blocks, alongside increasing liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, are damaging coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. With significant overlap between these activities and marine protected areas, marine biodiversity, including coral species and migratory marine life, is at risk. The report calls for urgent moratoriums, promotion of renewable energy, and enhanced protection measures to prevent further ecological and community damage.

Armenia has become India’s top defence export destination, contributing to a record Rs 21,083 crore ($2.63 billion) in exports during 2023-24. Dissatisfaction with Russia’s support, particularly during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, prompted Armenia to diversify its military suppliers. This shift led to significant defence deals with India, including advanced systems like Pinaka rockets, Akash-1S missiles, and surveillance aircraft. For India, this partnership strengthens its influence in Eurasia while expanding its defence exports. Both countries benefit from modernized military capabilities and strategic collaboration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new plant in Vadodara that will manufacture C-295 transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The project is part of a Rs 21,935 crore deal with Airbus, signed in 2021, to replace the IAF’s ageing Avro-748 fleet. The plant, operated by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, represents India’s first private-sector military aircraft assembly line. The first 16 aircraft will be delivered from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be made in India. This initiative strengthens India’s defence manufacturing and aims to enhance the IAF’s operational capabilities.

The 8th Uttarakhand Bird Festival, held from October 18-20, 2024, at Benog Wildlife Sanctuary near Mussoorie, highlighted the region’s rich bird diversity. With 95 bird species and 22 butterfly species recorded, notable sightings included the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide. The festival engaged 450 students and 170 experts in discussions about bird conservation, promoting sustainability and citizen science. Uttarakhand’s role as a birdwatcher’s paradise was underscored, while challenges such as conservation and habitat preservation were addressed. The event fosters a culture of environmental responsibility, inspiring future generations to protect avian species.

India launched a $25 million Pandemic Fund, focusing on enhancing animal health security and pandemic preparedness in the livestock sector. Spearheaded by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, the initiative is part of a broader strategy supported by the G20 to improve disease surveillance and control zoonotic diseases. The fund bolsters existing programs like the National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP), which targets Foot and Mouth Disease and Brucellosis. It emphasizes cross-border collaboration and developing laboratory infrastructure, with a long-term goal of strengthening India’s livestock resilience and economic growth.

Scientists at the Agharkar Research Institute in Pune have developed non-toxic molecules that could revolutionize Alzheimer’s treatment. These molecules, created using a rapid synthesis process, target cholinesterase enzymes, increasing acetylcholine levels to improve memory and learning capabilities. This approach offers a safer, long-term treatment option compared to existing drugs, which often have side effects. Further research, including human clinical trials, is needed to validate their efficacy. This breakthrough could also open new avenues for treating other neurodegenerative diseases, marking a significant advance in Alzheimer’s research.

The Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) is a key initiative under India’s Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP), designed to provide a 14-digit alphanumeric identifier for each land parcel. Launched in 2021, ULPIN aims to enhance transparency in land ownership and streamline land management. As of October 2024, 30% of rural land parcels have been assigned ULPINs. States like Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh are leading in implementation, while others lag behind. Continued state-level efforts and incentives are needed to ensure nationwide coverage and modernize land records effectively.

India is revitalizing the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) under the Ministry of Culture to preserve ancient texts. A new National Manuscripts Authority is proposed to address challenges such as private ownership, limited online access, and data discrepancies. Since 2003, NMM has digitized 300,000 manuscripts and compiled metadata for 5.2 million. Conservation efforts have preserved 90 million folios, but only 70,000 manuscripts are accessible online. The initiative seeks legal protection, international collaboration, and incentives for private owners to ensure long-term preservation of India’s manuscript heritage.

India ranks 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI) 2024, with a score of 45.5, making it one of the five worst performers globally. The NCI evaluates conservation efforts based on land management, biodiversity threats, governance capacity, and future trends. India faces challenges in land management, marine conservation, and biodiversity protection. High pesticide use, deforestation, and poor protection of marine areas contribute to its low ranking. The report calls for stronger conservation policies, expansion of protected areas, and addressing threats to biodiversity in order to improve future conservation efforts.

A recent study shows that semaglutide, used in diabetes medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, significantly reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Patients on semaglutide experienced a 40%-70% lower risk of developing AD compared to those on other diabetes treatments. Semaglutide works by reducing harmful proteins and inflammation in the brain. These findings are especially significant for India, which has a high prevalence of diabetes. Further research on GLP-1 receptor agonists could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing both diabetes and dementia.

The Asiatic golden cat was rediscovered in Assam’s Manas National Park in October 2024, marking its first sighting since 2007. This milestone, achieved through the collaboration of the Assam Forest Department and Aaranyak, highlights successful conservation efforts in the region. The Asiatic golden cat, a medium-sized wild cat found in Southeast Asia and Northeast India, is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN and protected under India’s Wildlife Act. The rediscovery underscores the importance of sustained conservation initiatives and offers hope for other endangered species in the area.

India’s first Writers’ Village, known as Lekhak Gaon, was inaugurated near Dehradun by former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank. This unique initiative provides a dedicated space for writers and artists to gather, collaborate, and create. Inspired by Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s vision to uplift the status of writers, the village offers amenities like a library, meditation center, and writing cottages. The inauguration event featured a three-day International Literature, Art, and Culture Festival, with participants from 65 countries. The Writers’ Village aims to become a hub for literary and cultural activities in India.

The 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) 2024 is taking place from 23 to 29 October in Visakhapatnam, India. Organized to strengthen naval cooperation between India and Singapore, the exercise includes a Harbour Phase with subject matter exchanges and cross-deck visits, followed by a Sea Phase involving advanced naval drills such as anti-submarine and anti-air warfare operations. The event underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations, aiming to enhance maritime domain awareness, interoperability, and regional security in Asia.

A rare sighting of 150-200 endangered Indian skimmer birds was recorded at the Lower Manair Dam (LMD) in Telangana, marking the first-ever sighting of these birds in the region. Typically, these birds migrate to Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, for the winter. The Indian Skimmer is classified as endangered by the IUCN, and its population has been declining due to habitat loss. The Karimnagar Birdwatchers Community and local forest officials are working to raise awareness and protect the species’ habitat. This sighting is a significant development in understanding the skimmers’ shifting migratory patterns and the need for enhanced conservation efforts.

The giant salmon carp, a fish thought to be extinct since 2005, has been rediscovered in the Mekong River, with three sightings recorded since 2020. This large predatory fish, distinguished by a yellow patch around its eyes, was monitored by biologists in Cambodia in collaboration with local communities. The rediscovery signals hope for the species’ survival amidst significant environmental threats such as overfishing and dam construction. Conservationists are now working to expand efforts in Thailand and Laos to better understand the carp’s range, while addressing the environmental challenges that threaten its habitat in the Mekong region.

In a groundbreaking conservation achievement, a baby great Indian bustard was born through artificial insemination at the Sudasari Great Indian Bustard Breeding Centre in Rajasthan. This marks the first successful artificial breeding of this critically endangered species. The male bustard, Suda, was trained for eight months to produce sperm, which was used to inseminate a female named Tony. The chick’s birth brings hope for the survival of this species, which is severely threatened by habitat loss and hunting. The successful use of AI offers new possibilities for breeding and conservation efforts for the great Indian bustard.

Urmila Chaudhary from Nepal has won the prestigious Global Anti-Racism Championship Award, presented by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Urmila, a former child servant, co-founded the Freed Kamlari Development Forum, advocating for the rights of former bonded laborers and marginalized communities in Nepal. Her efforts were pivotal in the abolition of the Kamlari system, which sold young girls into servitude. Through her activism, she has established 42 cooperatives, empowering survivors economically. Urmila’s ongoing legal studies strengthen her mission to fight systemic racism and create lasting change for Nepal’s marginalized populations.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna has been appointed the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice D Y Chandrachud, who retires on November 10, 2024. Justice Khanna, a seasoned Supreme Court judge, will take the oath of office on November 11, 2024, and serve until May 13, 2025, due to the retirement age limit of 65. His appointment follows constitutional procedures, with the President of India consulting the outgoing CJI. Justice Khanna’s brief tenure brings both continuity and challenges, with expectations high for his impact on critical legal and constitutional matters.

Israel deployed a SPICE 2000 bomb on a Hezbollah facility in Beirut during a military operation. The precision-guided bomb, known for its lethality and low collateral damage, is designed for accuracy and can adjust its flight path mid-air. Produced by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, SPICE bombs are part of Israel’s strategy to minimize civilian casualties, exemplified by their “knock on the roof” warning tactic. However, concerns persist over civilian harm, especially given past conflicts. The ongoing U.S.-Israel defense collaboration supports the bomb’s production, keeping the region’s tensions high amidst calls for humanitarian review.