[Newsbits] 1-14.08.2024: Neelakurinji, Africa Mpox Outbreak & more

Summary: The Continuous Emission Monitoring System (CEMS) is crucial for tracking pollution in India’s industries, especially after the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) mandated its installation in 2014. To address concerns over the reliability of these systems, the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) launched a certification process to ensure CEMS meet national and international standards. This certification includes a comprehensive quality assurance framework, involving multiple levels of testing and regular checks. The process aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of pollution data, ultimately encouraging wider adoption of CEMS in industries across India.

The Indian government is planning to integrate AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) into the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), a major health insurance scheme covering 55 crore citizens. This initiative aims to provide a more holistic health coverage by including traditional medical systems alongside modern treatments. The integration involves developing standardized treatment guidelines, onboarding AYUSH hospitals, and assessing financial sustainability. While the move could broaden healthcare access and promote wellness, challenges include ensuring treatment consistency and financial viability. The process is ongoing with decisions expected soon.

India concluded the Paris Olympics 2024 with a total of six medals, comprising one silver and five bronze. This performance marked a slight decrease from the seven medals achieved at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. India’s 117-athlete delegation showcased particular strength in shooting and field hockey. Key highlights included Neeraj Chopra’s silver in javelin throw and a bronze by the Indian Men’s Hockey Team. Despite the fewer medals and no golds this time, India’s participation underscored its ongoing competitive spirit and potential for future success.

The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) has achieved significant recognition by ranking 12th in the 2024 National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), up from 14th in previous years, making it the highest-ranked institution from Telangana. IITH excels in innovation, research, and engineering, reflecting its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education and global collaboration. The institute’s vibrant campus in Kandi, Telangana, is a hub for advanced research and startup incubation, contributing to its growing reputation and influence in the Indian higher education landscape.

Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 was a joint air exercise held from August 5 to 9, 2024, at Kuantan Air Base, Malaysia, involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). The exercise aimed to strengthen cooperation, share experiences, and improve interoperability between the two air forces. Both forces used similar Sukhoi fighter jets for air combat missions and engaged in technical discussions on aircraft maintenance. The exercise enhanced military relations, operational readiness, and technical knowledge exchange, with the potential for continued collaboration through future exercises and expanded personnel exchange programs.

NASA recently shared a striking image of Earth’s terminator, the line dividing day from night, as seen from the International Space Station (ISS). This line, created by Earth’s rotation and tilt, moves across the planet, causing sunrise and sunset, and plays a key role in seasonal changes. The ISS, a joint project of five space agencies, orbits Earth at 28,000 km/h and has been continuously occupied since November 2000. The terminator’s position changes throughout the year, influencing the length of days and sunlight distribution across the globe.

The U.S. has deployed the USS Georgia, a nuclear-powered guided missile submarine, to the Middle East amidst escalating tensions following the assassination of key Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. This move, alongside the accelerated arrival of the Abraham Lincoln strike group, aims to support Israeli defenses and deter potential Iranian retaliation. The situation has heightened regional instability, with significant risks of further conflict, as the U.S. balances military readiness with diplomatic efforts.

On August 9, 2024, the Union Cabinet of India approved eight new railway projects with a total investment of ₹24,657 crore to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and support environmental goals by cutting logistics costs and carbon emissions. These projects will add 900 kilometers of rail lines across seven states, improving logistical efficiency and economic growth. The initiative is part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on integrated infrastructure development and sustainable growth. The projects are expected to generate significant employment and reduce environmental impacts, though challenges such as timely completion and coordination remain.

The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced in Lok Sabha by Minister Pankaj Chaudhary, aims to provide customers with more banking options and improve bank governance. Key provisions include allowing up to four nominees per account, revising the ‘substantial interest’ threshold, giving banks control over auditor payments, and updating regulatory reporting dates. The Bill seeks to amend various major banking laws and reflects India’s evolving economic landscape. Despite opposition concerning state rights over cooperative societies, the Bill is geared toward enhancing bank efficiency and governance.

The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0) on August 9, 2024, to provide affordable housing for one crore urban poor and middle-class families over the next five years. This scheme, an extension of the original PMAY launched in 2015, offers financial support, including interest subsidies and enhanced loan guarantees, particularly for economically weaker sections and low-income groups. The program will be implemented across urban areas, including towns from the 2011 Census, with a focus on sustainable construction and weather-resistant homes. Despite potential challenges such as delivery delays and urban land constraints, PMAY-U 2.0 aims to address India’s urban housing shortage and promote social and economic development through improved living conditions.

The U.S. State Department announced the release of $3.5 billion in military aid to Israel, which is part of a larger $14 billion supplemental bill approved by Congress in April 2023. This funding comes amidst escalating tensions due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, where significant casualties and a severe humanitarian crisis have occurred. The aid aims to bolster Israel’s military capabilities by purchasing U.S.-made weapons. While this move strengthens U.S.-Israel relations, it has drawn criticism for potentially escalating the conflict and worsening the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

India’s first Grain ATM was launched in Odisha on August 8, 2024, under the National Food Security Programme, supported by the Annapurti initiative and developed with the World Food Programme’s assistance. These automated machines aim to enhance food distribution efficiency, reduce corruption, and improve nutritional security by providing 24/7 access to food grains, with biometric authentication and fortified grains in some cases. The initiative aligns with global goals for fair food distribution and is expected to expand across Odisha to address hunger and malnutrition effectively.

The Indian Army recently conducted the ‘Parvat Prahaar’ military exercise in Ladakh, near the India-China border, focusing on high-altitude warfare. This exercise, lasting two weeks, involves various military branches, including infantry, armored units, artillery, and logistical support, and aims to prepare soldiers for combat in mountainous terrains. The exercise is significant due to ongoing tensions with China and highlights India’s strategic efforts to strengthen its military readiness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Mountain Strike Corps plays a key role in these operations, with a history of combating militancy in the Himalayan regions since 1987.

A study titled Managing Monsoons in a Warming Climate reveals that 84% of India’s districts are experiencing severe heatwaves, and 70% are seeing increased heavy rainfall, particularly during monsoon seasons. Conducted by IPE Global and ESRI India, the study highlights the alarming rise in extreme weather events over the past 30 years, predicting that by 2036, 8 out of every 10 Indians will be affected. Regions across India, including coastal, plains, and hilly areas, are witnessing these changes, which are linked to climate change. The study underscores the need for urgent action, such as strengthening infrastructure and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Nagaland has become the first state in India to implement a disaster management insurance scheme by signing an agreement with SBI General Insurance. The new program, called the Disaster Risk Transfer Parametric Insurance Solution (DRTPS), is designed to provide quick financial support after natural disasters by offering predetermined payouts based on specific disaster events, without the need for detailed damage assessments. This initiative aims to protect critical infrastructure, reduce economic losses, and improve disaster preparedness in Nagaland, setting a precedent for other states. Nagaland, located in northeastern India, is known for its cultural diversity, natural resources, and historical significance.

The PM-KUSUM scheme, launched in 2019 to integrate solar energy into Indian agriculture, is falling short, with only 30% of its targets met as the 2026 deadline approaches. The scheme comprises three components: installing mini-grids, replacing diesel pumps with solar ones, and converting electric pumps to on-grid solar pumps. While Component B has seen some success, challenges like the availability of cheap electricity, pressure on farmers to buy larger pumps, and inefficient centralised implementation are hindering progress. Recommendations include decentralising the implementation, improving financial viability for farmers, and increasing central assistance to meet the scheme’s goals.

The Upasthiti Portal, introduced by Jharkhand’s Chief Minister Hemant Soren, is a new biometric system designed to track daily attendance of health department staff, including doctors and paramedical workers. This initiative aims to improve accountability and healthcare service efficiency in Jharkhand. The government is committed to enhancing medical facilities, ensuring district hospitals operate 24/7 with specialist doctors, and improving communication between primary health centers and district hospitals. This will ensure comprehensive care within districts and reduce patient referrals. The portal is part of broader efforts to implement private hospital management practices in public healthcare facilities.

On August 2, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the introduction of the Boilers Bill 2024 in the Rajya Sabha to replace the outdated Boilers Act of 1923. The new Bill modernizes boiler regulations to align with current industry and safety standards, decriminalizes three out of seven offences by replacing them with penalties, and simplifies compliance for businesses, particularly MSMEs. The Bill emphasizes safety by requiring only qualified professionals to conduct boiler repairs and structures the regulations into six clear chapters for better understanding. The goal is to enhance safety, reduce the administrative burden, and expedite issue resolution while maintaining strict oversight.

The 5th ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee meeting, held from July 29 to August 1, 2024, at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, aimed to review and update the AITIGA to enhance economic ties between ASEAN countries and India. Established in 2009, AITIGA seeks to reduce trade barriers and promote free trade. The recent meeting, attended by delegates from all ASEAN countries and India, focused on fitting the agreement to current trade conditions, with eight sub-committees addressing critical areas. The event also included bilateral talks and discussions with Indian businesses to ensure practical outcomes for stakeholders.

The Indian government has declared two new Peacock Sanctuaries in Adichunchanagiri, Karnataka, and Choolannuar, Kerala, to protect peafowl and their habitats. This initiative, announced by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, aims to preserve India’s national bird, contributing to biodiversity and cultural heritage. The sanctuaries will offer legal protection, restrict human activities, and implement conservation measures like breeding centers and habitat restoration to counter threats like habitat loss and hunting. While the move enhances peafowl protection, it also presents challenges, such as managing human-wildlife interactions and ensuring effective long-term conservation.

The e-Sankhyiki Portal, launched by India’s Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on June 29, 2024, is a major step in modernizing data management and sharing. It provides users with easy access to comprehensive and time-series data, along with improved tools for data filtering, visualization, and analysis. The portal emphasizes data security through cloud storage, regular audits, and cybersecurity measures supported by CERT-In. Designed to enhance transparency and efficiency, it allows real-time data access across various sectors, supports online submissions, and encourages collaboration among government agencies, ultimately aiding in evidence-based policy-making.

The potential leadership transition in Bangladesh poses significant risks to the strong relationship built with India under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since 2009. This relationship, grounded in counter-terrorism cooperation and shared economic and cultural interests, could be threatened, potentially affecting trade, connectivity, and ongoing discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Bilateral trade, which reached $13 billion in 2023-24, relies on key exports like cotton and petroleum from India and readymade garments from Bangladesh. The FTA could substantially boost trade if fully realized. However, leadership changes may disrupt these gains, complicating logistics, connectivity, and diplomatic efforts between the two nations.

Summary: The yen carry trade is a financial strategy where investors borrow Japanese yen at low interest rates and invest in higher-yield assets in other countries. The trade relies on stable interest rate differentials and favorable currency fluctuations. On August 05, 2024, a significant market downturn occurred, largely due to the unwinding of the yen carry trade following the Bank of Japan’s decision to raise interest rates and reduce its bond-buying program. This shift made the yen carry trade less profitable, leading to a rapid sell-off and severe declines in global markets. Additional factors, including fears of a US recession and geopolitical tensions, exacerbated the market instability.

Summary: The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024, introduced in the Rajya Sabha, seeks to stabilize policies in the oil and gas sector to attract more investment. The Bill proposes keeping lease terms consistent throughout their duration, allows for both domestic and international arbitration to resolve disputes, and extends lease periods by combining exploration licenses with mining leases. It also simplifies regulations by changing terminology and shifting penalties from criminal to financial. The Bill aims to reassure investors, streamline processes, and encourage both domestic and foreign participation in India’s oil and gas industry.

The “Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024” was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 5, 2024, by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. The Bill seeks to reserve seats for Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Goa Legislative Assembly, addressing the lack of representation for a significantly increased ST population. The Bill empowers the census commissioner to determine Goa’s ST population, allowing the Election Commission to adjust assembly seats and ensure fair representation for these communities. The Bill is crucial for providing constitutional benefits and improving governance representation for Goa’s STs.

The Indian Air Force has approved the production of 200 Astra Mark 1 air-to-air missiles, marking a significant advancement in India’s defense capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), the Astra Mark 1 is India’s first missile capable of hitting targets beyond visual range, with a range of up to 110 kilometers. This production approval follows thorough testing and a review process, signaling a boost to India’s homegrown defense manufacturing. Future plans include developing the Astra Mark 2 variant and a long-range version, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology.

AMRUT 2.0, launched in 2021 by the NDA government, is a major initiative aimed at improving city infrastructure across India with a focus on essential services like water supply and sewage management. With a budget of ₹66,750 crore, the mission plans to provide tap water to homes in 4,800 towns by 2026. Currently, out of 8,205 planned projects, 4,065 have been awarded, and key projects are expected to be operational soon as part of a 100-day agenda. The initiative also emphasizes the development of green and smart cities, encouraging citizen participation to enhance urban living conditions and sustainability.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly generative tools like ChatGPT, has significantly influenced education since its launch in November 2022. While it offers numerous benefits such as personalized learning, real-time feedback, and enhanced support for students with special needs, it also presents challenges, including potential misuse, privacy concerns, and the difficulty of distinguishing AI-generated content from student work. As AI becomes more embedded in education, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders must collaborate to shape its role, ensuring it complements rather than replaces the human elements essential to effective teaching and learning.

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, typically contracted through inhaling contaminated water droplets from sources like air-conditioning systems and spas. A recent outbreak in Victoria, Australia has heightened concern, with cases rising primarily in Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs. Health officials are advising the public, particularly those over 40 or with compromised health, to watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, and muscle aches. Efforts to trace the outbreak’s source, suspected to be linked to a cooling tower, are ongoing, with public health measures being reinforced to prevent further spread.

The Madras High Court has declared Section 77-A of the Registration Act, 1908, unconstitutional. This section, introduced through a 2022 State amendment, granted District Registrars the power to cancel property documents based on fraud or forgery allegations. The court raised concerns about potential abuse of power, highlighting that property disputes should be settled by civil courts, not executive authorities like District Registrars. The ruling emphasizes the need for judicial oversight in property matters to protect the rights of rightful owners and maintain fairness in dispute resolution.

India has shortlisted two astronauts for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as the main pilot and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair as the backup. This mission, part of a broader collaboration between ISRO and NASA, is a significant advancement in India’s human spaceflight program. The astronauts will begin their training in August 2024, preparing for scientific research, technology demonstrations, and public outreach on the ISS. The mission marks a critical step in strengthening India’s space presence and international partnerships.

The National Institute of Technology-Calicut (NIT-C) has launched an innovative web portal called ‘Nivahika,’ designed to enhance the way the institute manages and reports data. Led by the Dean’s (Planning & Development) office and supported by various departments, Nivahika aims to improve the accuracy, consistency, and efficiency of data handling across the institute. This secure portal allows authorized personnel, including the Director, Registrar, deans, and department heads, to access and generate reports, thereby facilitating better decision-making and supporting the institute’s performance in national rankings. Established in 1961, NIT-C is a leading engineering institute in India, known for its successful alumni, research in renewable energy and materials science, and strong international collaborations.

In 2023, India retained its position as the eighth-largest exporter of agricultural products globally, with exports totaling $51 billion, down from $55 billion in 2022. This decline occurred amid broader decreases in agricultural exports among leading countries due to geopolitical factors such as the Red Sea crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war, as well as India’s export bans on wheat, non-basmati rice, and sugar. Despite these challenges, the European Union, Brazil, and Thailand saw growth in their agricultural exports. The World Trade Organization (WTO) introduced a new interactive platform for analyzing international trade data, offering valuable insights into global trade trends. Moving forward, India needs to address geopolitical challenges, manage export bans effectively, and explore new markets to diversify its agricultural exports.

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024, introduced by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu in the Lok Sabha, aims to replace the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934 with clearer, updated regulations for civil aviation in India. The new bill seeks to remove confusion from the previous law, which had been amended 21 times, and to align India’s aviation regulations with international standards. Key features include repealing the old Act, centralizing government control over aircraft operations, and emphasizing accident investigations and public health safety. The bill supports the ‘Make in India’ campaign by encouraging local aircraft design and production and improving maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Despite facing criticism for its Hindi title, the Minister defended it as representing a new identity for India while ensuring the content remains accessible in English. The Aircraft Act of 1934 originally established rules for civil aviation, leading to the creation of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and focusing on licensing, aircraft safety, and accident regulations. The new bill promises to enhance safety, efficiency, and support for India’s aviation infrastructure.

The Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) is under investigation for possible unfair practices in land compensation, with allegations that Parvathi Siddaramaiah, wife of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, received 14 residential plots improperly. This raises questions about the fairness and legality of the process. MUDA, responsible for urban planning in Mysuru, has faced financial and legal challenges in compensating landowners. In 2020, it introduced a 50:50 ratio scheme to address these issues, but allegations of misuse and involvement of middlemen have surfaced. Opposition parties demand a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, while the state government has announced a one-man judicial commission to investigate. The situation underscores the need for transparency and reform in land compensation practices.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to enhance solid waste and sanitation management in 100 cities across India as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, aimed at creating cleaner urban environments. This funding will improve waste management systems, focusing on better separation, collection, and disposal methods. The loan was signed by Juhi Mukherjee from the Finance Ministry and Mio Oka, ADB’s Country Director for India. Infrastructure development will include bio-methanation plants, composting plants, managed landfills, material recovery facilities, and plastic waste processing centers. The plan also incorporates climate protection, disaster readiness, gender equality, and social fairness, aiming to improve city management teams’ capabilities and encourage collaboration with the private sector. Launched in 2021, Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 emphasizes sustainable sanitation practices, community involvement, scientific waste processing, and building public toilets, aligning with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

India has been elected as the vice-chair of the Supply Chain Council (SCC) under the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). This significant role highlights India’s growing influence in global supply chain management and its efforts to reduce reliance on China. The IPEF, launched in May 2022, includes 14 member countries and focuses on trade, supply chain resilience, clean economy, and fair economy. The SCC aims to enhance supply chain security and efficiency, with future plans including the first in-person meeting in Washington in September 2024. The SCC, initially started in 2003 and later merged with APICS in 2014, developed the SCOR model for managing supply chains and offers training and certifications in supply chain management.

On July 30, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal and announced Rs 100 crore in stipends for apprentices. This initiative, part of the government’s effort to enhance the skills and job prospects of young people in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and automobiles, allows for easier registration and application for apprenticeships and helps industries manage job openings and contracts. The portal aims to attract more users and ensure that apprentices receive a monthly stipend through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Panel discussions highlighted the integration of degree programs with apprenticeships, industry-education collaboration, and technological improvements in the DBT system. Minister Pradhan emphasized the need for education to focus on employability, supported by the DBT system introduced in 2024. The NATS 2.0 Portal aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting vocational education and new guidelines for Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes (AEDP) by UGC and AICTE.

The Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC) initiative, under the Nirbhaya Fund, focuses on tackling cyber crimes against women and children through organized efforts like Safe City Projects. These projects, supported by local police and city authorities, aim to enhance public safety infrastructure and utilize advanced technologies for smarter policing. A key component is the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), which allows easy reporting of cyber crimes. The initiative includes partnerships, such as with the USA, to improve cooperation in combating online child exploitation and the establishment of Cyber Forensic cum Training Labs across India. Additionally, the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) and the Women Helpline (181) work together to provide immediate support for women in distress.

India hosted the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) in July 2024 in New Delhi, marking a significant event in its heritage conservation efforts. During the session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a $1 million grant to support UNESCO’s global conservation initiatives. India, a long-time supporter of the World Heritage Convention, has actively contributed to heritage conservation, adding 13 sites to the World Heritage list in the past decade, and now has 43 sites in total. The session saw the recognition of 24 new World Heritage Sites globally, including the Moidams from Assam as India’s 43rd site. Key discussions included heritage conservation projects, international collaborations, and the fight against illegal trade in cultural artifacts, underscoring India’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage.

India’s scientists at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology in New Delhi have developed a more precise and efficient DNA-editing system by enhancing the FnCas9 enzyme. This system aims to improve the accuracy of CRISPR technology while minimizing off-target effects. Modifications in the enzyme’s interaction with the PAM sequence have resulted in better DNA binding and editing capabilities, especially in difficult-to-access genome areas. Tests on human cells demonstrated higher precision and minimal off-target effects, highlighting potential for treating genetic disorders such as Leber Congenital Amaurosis 2. The new approach may also pave the way for safer, patient-specific stem cell therapies.