[Newsbits] 25-30.04.2024: Article 244(A), Phi-3-mini, Nilgiri Tahr Survey & More

The fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on plastic pollution, held in Ottawa, Canada, aims to refine the draft text of a treaty that addresses the full life cycle of plastics, including production, design, and disposal. This session is critical in setting the stage for the final treaty, to be completed by the end of 2024. Key issues include the phasing out of single-use plastics, reducing overall plastic production, and setting binding targets. Despite some opposition from the petrochemical industry, there is growing agreement on limiting single-use plastics, demonstrating progress towards a significant global agreement on plastic pollution.

The proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) by the World Health Organization (WHO) are a response to the weaknesses exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. These amendments aim to enhance early detection, strengthen response capacity, and improve international cooperation and information sharing. The process is led by the Working Group on Amendments to the IHR (WGIHR), with substantial progress reported in their recent meetings. The next steps involve a final session in May 2024 to finalize the amendments before they are presented at the World Health Assembly for adoption. If accepted, the changes will be implemented globally, aiming to make the IHR more robust and effective against future public health emergencies.

The Tamil Nadu government, in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Department and supported by international and national conservation bodies, is conducting a three-day synchronised survey of the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain ungulate endemic to the Western Ghats of India. This survey aims to accurately estimate the population of the Nilgiri Tahr to inform and improve conservation strategies, potentially leading to the species’ removal from the endangered status list. The survey, observed by an IUCN representative, employs advanced methodologies and covers significant habitats, making it a pivotal step in the conservation of this species.

Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in Earth’s stratosphere, primarily due to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances. A recent study has highlighted ongoing issues with the ozone hole above Antarctica, noting its unusual persistence and potential dangers to local biota, particularly during the vulnerable breeding season of many species. The Montreal Protocol has played a crucial role in mitigating this problem by phasing out the production of CFCs and aiming for a complete recovery of the ozone layer by the 2060s. The study underscores the importance of continued research and international cooperation to protect Antarctic ecosystems and manage the impact of UV exposure on its flora and fauna.

Article 244(A) of the Indian Constitution, which allows for the creation of an autonomous state within Assam, has been a focal issue in the recent Diphu Lok Sabha elections. This provision is intended to grant tribal areas greater autonomy, including their own legislature and council of ministers, especially in regions like Karbi Anglong, which are governed under the Sixth Schedule. The demand for such autonomy dates back to the 1950s, and despite various peace accords promising greater autonomy and financial control, full implementation remains a central issue for the tribal communities in these areas.

Microsoft has recently launched the Phi-3-mini, the latest addition to their family of small language models (SLMs). Despite its compact size, it boasts 3.8 billion parameters and exceptional performance capabilities, outshining larger models. It’s designed to be cost-effective, efficient, and capable of operating on smaller devices like smartphones and laptops without the need for cloud connectivity. The Phi-3-mini is ideal for applications that require quick processing and minimal data latency, making it a powerful tool for both personal and professional use.