[Newsbits] 9-13.05.2024: West Nile Virus, Vibrant Village Program & More

The West Nile Virus (WNV) has sparked a high alert in Kerala, India, with recent reports of twelve confirmed and four suspected cases. This mosquito-borne illness, primarily transmitted by the Culex mosquito from infected birds, was first identified in India in 1952. There is no vaccine for WNV, which can cause symptoms ranging from mild fever and headaches to severe neurological issues like encephalitis and meningitis. Preventative measures focus on reducing mosquito exposure. The virus, part of the Flavivirus family and first discovered in Uganda in 1937, poses an ongoing public health threat.

The Vibrant Village Program (VVP), initiated by the Indian government, aims to bolster infrastructure and stability in border areas adjacent to China. Launched on February 15, 2023, it focuses on enhancing the living conditions in 2,967 villages across five states by preventing out-migration, elevating living standards, and strengthening border security. A significant part of the ₹4,800 crore allocated for three years will be used for road construction, with an average cost of ₹2 crore per kilometer, reflecting the program’s emphasis on creating robust connectivity to facilitate easier livelihoods and enhanced surveillance capabilities.

NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, set to launch in 2026, aims to discover primordial black holes, remnants from the universe’s inception around 13.8 billion years ago. These black holes, which could range vastly in size and are theorized to be related to dark matter, might significantly alter our understanding of physics and the early universe. Recent research led by William DeRocco from the University of California, Santa Cruz, which was published in Physical Review D, describes methods the telescope will use to search for these ancient cosmic entities. This mission not only challenges existing theories, such as Stephen Hawking’s theory of black hole radiation but also promises advancements in astronomy and particle physics.

The Spices Board of India has introduced new guidelines to address the issue of ethylene oxide (EtO) contamination in exported spices following bans by Hong Kong and Singapore on popular Indian spice brands due to carcinogenic risks. The guidelines prohibit the use of EtO in the entire spice production chain, mandate regular testing and monitoring, and promote alternative sterilization methods. Additionally, they incorporate critical safety measures at all stages of spice processing and transportation. These measures aim to ensure the safety and quality of Indian spices, critical for maintaining and growing India’s significant share in the global spice market, valued at USD 4.25 billion. Ethylene oxide, a hazardous chemical used for sterilization, poses serious health risks, making these guidelines vital for consumer and workplace safety.

The Drishti-10 drone, also known as the Hermes-900 Starliner, is set to be delivered to the Indian Army on June 18, 2024, by Adani Defence Systems. This deployment is enabled by emergency powers from the Defence Ministry, promoting indigenous manufacturing in line with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The Hermes-900 Starliner can fly for over 30 hours and cover distances up to 2,000 km, equipped with advanced technologies like satellite communication and collision avoidance systems. This capability enhances surveillance over the western frontier with Pakistan, stationed at the Army’s Bhatinda base in Punjab. This strategic move aims to boost both the technological and security frameworks of the region.