[Newsbits] 10.01.2024: Shark Meat Consumption in India, Fungi Bio-Pesticide, Work4Food & more

newsbits mindmap notes

Fungi Bio-Pesticide mind map
Recent News
Scientists develop bio-pesticide
Target
Eucalyptus snout beetle
Location
Colombia
Fungi Types
Beauveria pseudobassiana
Metarhizium brunneum
Use
Control beetle
Protect Eucalyptus plantations
Research
Characterized for insecticidal activity
UV-B radiation tolerance
Future Plans
Trials in Eucalyptus forests
When
Discovery
Not specified
Why
Pest Control
Protect crops
Environmentally friendly
What
Types of Bio-Pesticides
Biofungicides
Bioherbicides
Bioinsecticides
Other Biopesticides
Indian Context
Market Segmentation
Crop Type
Cash Crops
Horticultural Crops
Row Crops
Key Players
Andermatt Group AG
Central Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
Coromandel International Ltd.
Others
Where
Use Regions
Colombia
Potential global use
Who
Researchers
University of Eastern Finland
Insects Affected
Eucalyptus snout beetle
How
Fungus Pathogenicity
Collect from naturally infected beetles
Adapt to environmental conditions
Production
Mass culture
Stabilization
Formulation
Significance
Environmental Safety
Less harmful than synthetic pesticides
Targeted Effects
Specific to certain pests
Resistance Reduction
Reduces pesticide resistance
Residue
Less residue than synthetics
Challenges
Photodecomposition
Susceptible to UV light, radiation
Specificity
Targets only certain species
Cost
Some types expensive
Storage
Shorter lifespan
Specialized storage required
Way Forward
Continued Research
Explore broader applications
Funding
For further trials
Global Implementation
Expand to other affected regions

Fungi bio-pesticide refers to a type of environmentally friendly pest control that uses fungi to target specific pests, such as the Eucalyptus snout beetle. This form of bio-pesticide, developed through research efforts like those by the University of Eastern Finland, offers an alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. It’s characterized by its adaptability to environmental conditions, targeted pest control, and lesser environmental impact. In India, the bio-pesticide market includes various forms, segmented by crop type and is supported by companies like Andermatt Group AG and Coromandel International Ltd. The main advantages of fungi bio-pesticides include their environmental safety, specific targeting of pests, reduced resistance, and minimal residue. However, challenges include their vulnerability to photodecomposition, limited pest targeting, higher costs, and specialized storage requirements. The future of fungi bio-pesticides lies in ongoing research, securing funding for further trials, and expanding their use globally.

/ Geography, Tourism Sector
Lakshadweep Islands mind map
Recent News:
January 2024:
PM Modi's visit:
Inauguration and laying foundation:
Projects worth Rs 1,150 crore
In Kavaratti
Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands:
Submarine Optical Fiber Connection:
Cost: Rs 1,150 crore
Purpose: High-speed wireline broadband
Connectivity: 11 Lakshadweep Islands
Impact: Increase internet speed
Funded by: USOF, DOT
Executing Agency: BSNL
Developments:
Low Temperature Thermal Desalination plant:
Location: Kadmat
Production: 1.5 lakh litres daily
Functional Household Tap Connections:
Islands: Agatti and Minicoy
Solar power plant:
Location: Kavaratti
Primary healthcare facility:
Renovation: Kalpeni
Model Anganwadi centres:
Construction: 5 islands
Connectivity:
Flights:
From: Cochin International Airport
To: Agatti Island
Frequency: Six days a week
Sea route:
Passenger ships: Six
Between: Cochin and Lakshadweep
Entry Permit:
Requirement: For visiting islands
Process: Clearance certificate, ID, photos
Fee: Rs 50
Duration: 10-15 days
Tourism Potential:
Fragile ecology
Development strategy:
Harmony with economy
Why:
Overall development
Boost tourism
What
High-speed internet
Infrastructure development
Water resources management
Healthcare improvement
Educational initiatives
Where
Lakshadweep Islands
Kavaratti
Who:
Narendra Modi: Prime Minister of India
Praful Patel: Administrator of Lakshadweep
How:
Government initiatives
Public-private partnerships
Technology and infrastructure investments
Significance:
Improved connectivity
Enhanced public services
Potential logistics hub
Challenges:
Ecological fragility
Sustaining tourist boom
Way Forward
Ecologically sustainable tourism
Global connectivity expansion
Infrastructure strengthening

In January 2024, the Lakshadweep Islands witnessed significant developments led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on overall development and boosting tourism. Key initiatives included inaugurating projects worth Rs 1,150 crore in Kavaratti and establishing the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection for high-speed internet. The project aims to connect 11 Lakshadweep Islands, improving internet speed and enhancing public services like healthcare, education, and digital banking. Additionally, infrastructural developments such as a desalination plant, tap connections, a solar power plant, and healthcare facilities were initiated. The focus remains on balancing ecological sustainability with economic growth in this fragile archipelago.

AI Odyssey Program mind map
Recent News
January 2024
Microsoft's initiative
In India
When
Month-long
January 2024
Why
Skill 100,000 developers
In AI technologies
What
Two levels
Level 1
Azure AI services
Develop & deploy AI solutions
Access to resources
Code samples, guides
Level 2
Online assessment
Interactive lab tasks
Microsoft Applied Skills credentials
Where
Across India
Who
Microsoft
AI enthusiasts
All experience levels
Irina Ghose
Managing Director
Microsoft India
How
Register on AI Odyssey portal
Access learning modules
Significance
Empowering tech talent
Innovative AI solutions
Contributing to India's economy
Way Forward
Attend Microsoft AI Tour
Bangalore, February 8, 2024
Showcasing generative AI
Keynote sessions, demos
Workshops

The AI Odyssey program, launched by Microsoft in January 2024, aims to skill 100,000 developers in India in the latest AI technologies and tools. This month-long program is accessible to all AI enthusiasts, regardless of their background or experience. It is structured into two levels: the first focuses on using Azure AI services to develop and deploy AI solutions, providing participants with resources, code samples, and guides. The second level involves an online assessment with interactive lab tasks, leading to Microsoft Applied Skills credentials. Successful participants also have the opportunity to attend the Microsoft AI Tour in Bangalore. This initiative by Microsoft, under the guidance of Irina Ghose, Managing Director of Microsoft India, is significant in empowering India’s tech talent and contributing to the country’s economy through innovative AI solutions.

/ Labour Rights
Work4Food mind map
Developed by
IIT Delhi
Recent News
January 2024
Announced development
Why
Fair compensation
Minimize platform costs
Enhance customer satisfaction
What
Guarantees minimum wage
Government-mandated
Minimizes travel
Reduces air pollution
Income Guarantees
Fair, consistent income
Addresses gig work issues
Where
India
Who
Food delivery agents
IIT Delhi researchers
Prof. Abhijnan Chakraborty
Fairwork India
Global initiative
How
Ensuring local minimum wages
Onboarding flexibility
Novel solution approach
Significance
Fair labor standards
Reduced vehicular emissions
Challenges
Implementation barriers
Gig nature
Operational constraints
Delivery fee limits
Way Forward
Broader adoption
Addressing operational hurdles

“Work4Food” is an innovative program developed by researchers at IIT Delhi, launched in January 2024. It’s designed to ensure fair compensation for food delivery agents in India. The initiative guarantees that these workers receive a minimum wage as mandated by the government, addressing a major issue in the gig economy where workers often don’t earn enough after accounting for expenses like fuel. Work4Food also aims to minimize travel for delivery agents, thereby reducing air pollution. A critical component of this program is the income guarantee, allowing delivery agents to earn a fair and consistent income. This approach not only benefits the workers but also addresses operational challenges faced by food delivery platforms. While the program promises to enhance labor standards and reduce environmental impact, it also faces implementation barriers due to the nature of gig work and operational constraints in the industry.

Micro and nanoplastics, defined as tiny plastic particles less than 5mm and 1μm respectively, have become a significant concern for environmental and human health. Recent studies, including those conducted in 2024, reveal the alarming presence of these particles in everyday items such as bottled water, with reports indicating up to 240,000 nanoparticles per litre. Found in various locations like beaches and food products, these particles are a global issue. Key organizations like the Columbia Climate School are involved in researching their impact. The detection methods include novel microscopy techniques and data-driven algorithms. Micro and nanoplastics pose serious health risks including carcinogenic properties, genotoxicity, and metabolic disruption, and they also have detrimental effects on ecosystems, such as disruption and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. The way forward involves increased awareness, more research to address knowledge gaps, and thorough impact assessments.

/ Species
Shark Meat Consumption in India mind map
Recent News
Rising Popularity
Among Middle-Class
Among Foreign Tourists
In Restaurants
Study Highlights
9.8% Annual Catch
251.6 Tonnes Sold Annually
292 Restaurants Listed
When
Centuries-Old Tradition
Increased Since 1960s
2024 Data
Why
Affordability
Distinct Taste
Traditional Cuisine
What/Full Provisions
Consumed Species
Spadenose Shark
Milk Shark
Gray Sharpnose Shark
Reticulate Whipray
Legal Status
Banned Live-Finning
10 Species Protected
Global Trade Value
$4.1 Billion (2012-2019)
Where
Coastal Regions
Highest in Goa
Tamil Nadu
Maharashtra
Who
Consumers
Local Goans
Foreign Tourists
Researchers
Restaurant Owners
How
Served in Dishes
Ambotik
Butter Garlic Shark
Shark Fry
Marketed
Online Menus
Pros
Economic Importance
Cons
Threat to Species
Overfishing
Impact on Juveniles
Health Risks
Heavy Metals
Toxic Metals
Way Forward
Sustainable Alternatives
Consumer Awareness
Increased Prices
Bycatch Reduction
Better Fisheries Management

Shark meat consumption in India has been a traditional practice for centuries, primarily among tribal and coastal communities. Recently, there has been a significant rise in its popularity, especially among middle-class consumers and foreign tourists, with approximately 251.6 tonnes of shark meat being sold annually in Indian restaurants. This increase poses a threat to shark species, many of which are already facing extinction due to overfishing. A notable shift has occurred since the 1960s, with an expansion in the variety of sharks consumed, including endangered species. The consumption is highest in states like Goa, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. The rise in shark meat demand has led to concerns regarding sustainability and the impact on marine ecosystems, prompting suggestions for increased consumer awareness, sustainable alternatives, and better fisheries management.

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