[Newsbits] 24-29.03.2024: Meme Coins, Beni Koji, Annual India TB Report & more

The Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024, introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, aim to enhance plastic waste management practices in India. This amendment to the 2016 rules expands definitions for producers, manufacturers, and importers to include a broader spectrum of entities involved in the plastic packaging industry. It emphasizes the responsibilities of local bodies to assess and manage plastic waste, introduces new categories for biodegradable plastics with specific labeling requirements, and sets forth pre-consumer waste processing obligations. The amendment also details the obligations for micro and small enterprises regarding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), introduces a minimum recycling target, and establishes price caps for EPR certificates​

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) is the only ocean current that encircles the Earth without being obstructed by any landmass. Recent studies have shown that during warmer phases, such as the last interglacial period, the ACC flows more rapidly. This change can significantly impact the global climate by affecting other ocean currents like the Gulf Stream, altering weather patterns in regions like Northwest Europe, and potentially decreasing the ocean’s capacity to absorb CO2. This could lead to higher atmospheric CO2 levels and accelerate global warming. Researchers emphasize the importance of understanding the ACC’s role in the global climate system and suggest that its behavior in response to warming trends could provide valuable insights for future climate change predictions and mitigation strategies.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is introducing a T+0 trade settlement cycle on an optional basis starting March 28, with a full instant settlement system expected by March 2025. This move aims to make trades more efficient by settling them on the same day, in response to the growing alternatives like cryptocurrency. The T+0 cycle is part of SEBI’s effort to keep the Indian stock market competitive and is implemented in phases, starting with optional T+0 settlement for trades completed by 1:30 PM. This shift marks a significant evolution from the previous T+5, T+3, and T+2 settlement cycles, showing a trend towards faster trading processes to enhance market liquidity and efficiency.

The International Myeloma Foundation launched Myeloma Action Month to raise awareness and take action for myeloma, emphasizing the power of personal stories and experiences to foster global awareness​. Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that begins in the plasma cells, which are an important part of the immune system responsible for producing antibodies to fight infections. It most commonly affects the bone marrow, leading to a variety of symptoms including infections, bone pain and fractures, kidney problems, and anemia. Risk factors include being male, Black, having a family history of the disease, obesity, and having certain precursor conditions like MGUS. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation through physical exams, blood and urine tests, imaging, and bone marrow biopsies. Treatment strategies are determined based on factors such as the suitability for bone marrow transplant, age, and overall health, and can include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, corticosteroids, chemotherapy, and managing complications. Research and support for multiple myeloma are ongoing, with a focus on understanding and treating the condition more effectively

the Annual India TB Report 2023 outlines India’s efforts and strategies to combat Tuberculosis, aiming for its elimination by 2025. It emphasizes the country’s highest-ever TB case notifications in 2022, showcasing the effectiveness of various initiatives like engaging private sectors, active case finding, and community engagements. The report also highlights the challenges posed by drug-resistant TB and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on TB control efforts. With ambitious goals and innovative approaches, India continues to strive towards a TB-free nation by enhancing diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods.

The recent news revolves around the extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland by the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs for another six months, effective from April 1, 2024. This decision was based on a review of the law and order situation in these regions. AFSPA grants the military significant powers, including arresting without a warrant and searching premises without a warrant, under the designation of “disturbed areas.” This extension specifically applies to Changlang, Tirap, and Longding districts in Arunachal Pradesh and certain areas within Namsai district, with detailed specifics on Nagaland districts not provided in the source .

The LCA Tejas Mark 1A is an advanced version of India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft, featuring several upgrades like an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile capability, and modern Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite, designed to meet the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force. It represents a significant step towards self-reliance in defense and is set to replace the ageing fleet of MiG-21 fighter aircraft, with the Indian Air Force planning to induct around 100 additional units. The project involves collaborations with various domestic and international partners, showcasing India’s growing aerospace capabilities.

The TikTok ownership controversy centers around the potential ban of the app in the United States unless it is sold to U.S. owners, sparking debates over data privacy, political misinformation, and the dynamics of power in the digital age. At the heart of the issue are concerns about China’s potential access to U.S. users’ data and the spread of political misinformation. Despite assurances from U.S. politicians that all U.S. TikTok data is stored domestically without Chinese access, questions about the validity of these concerns persist. Steve Mnuchin, a key figure, has shown interest in purchasing TikTok’s U.S. operations, raising questions about the motives behind the proposed ban. While TikTok is primarily owned by global investors and its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, has attempted to alleviate security concerns, the involvement of the Chinese government through a “golden share” adds complexity to the situation. The debate touches on broader issues of data security, foreign espionage, and the influence of Chinese technology companies, underscoring the need for a comprehensive strategy for dealing with such companies, enhancing algorithmic transparency, and improving privacy protections​.

Beni-koji, or red yeast rice, is a traditional Chinese dietary component known for its potential health benefits, particularly in lowering cholesterol levels. Produced by fermenting rice with the mold Monascus purpureus, it turns the rice red or reddish-purple. Recently, a health scare in Japan linked to supplements containing beni-koji has caused concern, leading to product recalls by Kobayashi Pharmaceutical after reports of illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths. Despite its health benefits, the safety and regulation of red yeast rice products remain contentious due to their variable content of active compounds like monacolins, and the presence of potentially harmful toxins such as citrinin. Clinical evidence suggests it can significantly lower LDL-cholesterol, but its safety over long periods and in certain populations (e.g., pregnant women, individuals with liver disease) is yet to be established. Moving forward, continuous monitoring and research into its long-term safety and efficacy are essential.

The Satellite-Based Toll Collection System in India represents a significant shift in how tolls are collected on national highways. Initiated by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, this new system aims to replace traditional toll plazas with a more efficient satellite-based mechanism that uses GPS and camera technology to directly deduct fees from the vehicle owners’ bank accounts based on the actual distance travelled. Currently in its pilot phase, with plans for full implementation by March 2024, this system is poised to reduce traffic congestion, save time and fuel for commuters, and ensure a more transparent collection of toll fees. The transition signifies the Indian government’s commitment to leveraging technology for improving infrastructure and services.