German Scientists Discover Plastic-Eating Fungi for Waste Reduction
Scientists in Germany have found fungi that can eat plastic, which could help tackle the global problem of plastic pollution. Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste end up in the oceans.
Plastic-eating fungi, mainly from the genera Aspergillus and Pestalotiopsis, have shown the ability to break down polyurethane, a common type of plastic, in laboratory settings.
Exercise Udara Shakti 2024
On August 10, 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) team came back to India after taking part in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 in Malaysia. This exercise happened from August 5 to 9, 2024, in Kuantan and involved working together with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
JUICE Mission Sets to Break Records with Lunar-Earth Flyby
The European Space Agency (ESA) is about to perform a very important and new kind of move in its JUICE mission.
This move called a Lunar-Earth gravity assist, will use both the Moon and Earth to help change the spacecraft’s speed and direction. It’s the first time a spacecraft will use two different celestial bodies in this way. This maneuver is crucial and will greatly affect how the rest of the mission goes.
What is the JUICE Mission?
JUICE, which stands for JUpiter ICy moons Explorer, is a spacecraft created to study the moons of Jupiter, especially Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto, to see if they could support life.
Chhattisgarh Establishes Third Largest Tiger Reserve Amid Decline
Chhattisgarh has recently approved the creation of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve to address a sharp decline in the state’s tiger population.
The new reserve combines an existing national park and a wildlife sanctuary, to improve conservation efforts despite some legal and environmental challenges.
The number of tigers in Chhattisgarh has dropped significantly, from 46 in 2014 to just 17 by 2022, according to a report by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
Facts about the National Tiger Conservation Authority
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) was set up in 2005 in India.
It works to protect tigers using a complete approach.
It operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The NTCA manages Project Tiger, which started in 1973 to save tigers and their habitats.
It does tiger census every 4 years.
It works on protecting habitats, stopping poaching, and involving communities.
The NTCA works with different states to improve monitoring.
India’s First Grain ATM Launched in Odisha
Odisha government introduced the state’s first Grain ATM, a new technology designed to improve food distribution under the National Food Security Programme on August 08, 2024. This machine is part of the central government’s Annapurti programme and was developed with help from the World Food Programme (WFP) to enhance food security in the region.
What is a Grain ATM?
Grain ATMs are automated machines that provide food grains directly to people, aiming to reduce hunger. They are used in several countries, including India, and help people get essential food supplies more efficiently.
Indian Army Conducts ‘Parvat Prahaar’ Military Exercise in Ladakh
The Indian Army recently conducted a military exercise called ‘Parvat Prahaar’ in the Ladakh region, which is located near the India-China border. This exercise focuses on preparing soldiers for high-altitude warfare, which involves fighting in the difficult and mountainous terrains of Eastern Ladakh. The exercise is a key part of India’s military strategy, especially given the ongoing tensions with China.
Overview of ‘Parvat Prahaar’
The name ‘Parvat Prahaar’ translates to “Mountain Strike.” The exercise is designed to train soldiers to deal with the unique challenges they might face in mountainous areas. During the exercise, which lasts for two weeks, soldiers practice real-world combat scenarios, helping them to be better prepared for any potential conflicts.
Great Barrier Reef Faces Record Temperatures, Urgent Threats
The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is experiencing serious problems because of climate change. Recently, scientists have found that the ocean’s surface temperature is the highest it has been in over 400 years. This rapid increase in temperature has caused a lot of coral bleaching, putting the world’s largest coral reef ecosystem at great risk.
Understanding Coral Bleaching
Coral bleaching happens when corals get stressed due to warmer water, pollution, or other harmful factors. This stress causes them to expel tiny organisms called dinoflagellates that they need to survive. Corals can recover if the stress is short-lived, but if it lasts too long, the corals may die.
Nagaland Becomes First State to Implement Disaster Insurance
Nagaland has become the first state in India to start a disaster management insurance scheme by signing an agreement with SBI General Insurance.
This new program called the Disaster Risk Transfer Parametric Insurance Solution (DRTPS), is designed to protect against natural disasters.
What is Parametric Insurance?
Parametric insurance works by giving predetermined payouts based on specific events, such as the strength of a natural disaster.
This means that after a disaster, financial support is given quickly without the need for detailed damage assessments.
PM-KUSUM scheme
The PM-KUSUM scheme, started in 2019 to introduce solar energy in Indian agriculture, is facing difficulties. According to a report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), only 30% of the scheme’s targets have been met. With the 2026 deadline approaching, improvements are urgently needed.
Overview of the PM-KUSUM Scheme
The scheme has three main parts:
Component A: Installing mini-grids on barren lands.
Component B: Replacing diesel water pumps with off-grid solar water pumps.
Component C: Replacing electric water pumps with on-grid solar pumps and creating mini-grids for agricultural solarisation.
Government Declares New Peacock Sanctuaries in Karnataka, Kerala
Recently, Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Mr. Bhupender Yadav, announced the creation of two new Peacock Sanctuaries in India: Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala. This decision shows the government’s ongoing effort to protect wildlife and the national bird, the peacock.
Peacock Sanctuary Designation
Declaring Adichunchanagiri and Choolannuar as Peacock Sanctuaries is an important move to protect peafowl (peacocks) and their habitats. Sanctuaries offer a safe space where these birds can live and thrive without human disturbance.
Cause of Peacock Deaths in Delhi
In response to questions about peacock deaths in Delhi, the Minister explained that the deaths were caused by heat stroke, not bird flu. This clarification helps calm public fears about disease outbreaks among wildlife
Lesser-known facts about Peacocks: -
Unexpected Abilities and Behaviors
Snake hunters: Peacocks have a natural aversion to snakes and are often used as biological pest control in gardens.
Ground nesters: Unlike many birds, peacocks build their nests on the ground, often in hidden spots for protection.
Playful personalities: Peachicks, the young peacocks, are surprisingly playful and enjoy games with each other.
Non-swimmers: Despite their elegant appearance, peacocks cannot swim. Their feet are not webbed, making them ill-equipped for aquatic adventures.
Haryana Becomes First State to Procure All Crops at MSP
On August 4, 2024, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced that the state would buy all crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), making Haryana the first state in India to do this on such a wide scale. This move is seen as a strategic effort before the upcoming Assembly elections, especially after the ruling party’s poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections.
Key Announcements
Here’s a breakdown of the key announcements:
All-Crops MSP Procurement: Saini promised that the Haryana government would buy all crops at MSP. This is a significant expansion from the current practice, where only 14 crops were covered. Now, nine additional crops will also be included.
Waiving Irrigation Charges: The Chief Minister announced that Rs 133 crore in outstanding canal water irrigation charges would be waived. This is expected to save farmers about Rs 54 crore each year.
Pending Compensation Payments: He committed to paying Rs 137 crore in pending compensation to farmers who have been affected by natural disasters. The payments will be made quickly, within a week.
Expanded Motor Purchase Options: Farmers will now be able to buy three-star motors for their tube-wells from any registered company in India. This provides them with more options and better access to necessary equipment.
What is Legionnaires’ Disease?
A rising outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Victoria, Australia has caused concern among health officials. The number of confirmed cases has increased from 22 to 33, with an additional 10 cases suspected. Chief Health Officer Clare Looker has noted a troubling rise in cases, mostly in the northern and western suburbs of Melbourne.
Understanding Legionnaires’ Disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria. It usually happens when people breathe in water droplets contaminated with these bacteria. This contamination often comes from sources like air-conditioning systems, spas, and misting devices.
Transmission Information
The disease is not spread from person to person. Instead, people get infected through environmental sources, particularly from aerosols created by cooling towers or similar equipment.
CAR-T Cell Therapy Explained
What is it?
A type of cancer treatment that uses a patient's own immune cells to fight cancer.
It's like training your own body's soldiers to attack the cancer cells.
How does it work?
T cells, a type of immune cell, are taken from the patient's blood.
These T cells are changed in a lab to better recognize and attack cancer cells.
The changed T cells are then put back into the patient's body.
These supercharged T cells find and destroy cancer cells.
Why is it used?
It's used for some types of blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma that haven't responded to other treatments.
Side effects:
Can be serious, like a cytokine storm (body's immune system overreacts).
Other side effects might include fever, chills, and fatigue.
Is it a cure?
It can be very effective, but it's not a cure for everyone.
More research is being done to improve its success rate.
DRDO Successfully Tests Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’
Analysis of the news:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a maiden flight test of the long-range glide bomb (LRGB) named Gaurav.
The test was carried out from a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet of the Indian Air Force off the coast of Odisha. Gaurav is a 1,000 kg class air-launched glide bomb with long-range capability.
It uses a highly accurate hybrid navigation scheme to steer towards its target.
The bomb was designed and developed indigenously by the Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad.
During the test, Gaurav hit its target on Long Wheeler’s Island with pinpoint accuracy.
Neelakurinji: The Once-in-a-Decade Wonder
What is Neelakurinji?
A rare plant species found in the Western Ghats of India.
Known for its striking blue-purple flowers.
Scientific name: Strobilanthes kunthiana.
Unique Blooming Cycle:
Blooms once in 12 years.
This phenomenon is called 'Plietesial'.
Last bloomed in 2018, next expected in 2030.
Ecological Importance:
Crucial for the ecosystem of the Western Ghats.
Provides food and shelter for various wildlife.
Cultural Significance:
Holds special place in the traditions of local tribes.
Used as a natural calendar by some communities.
Threats:
Deforestation and habitat loss are major threats.
Climate change also poses a risk to its survival.
Conservation Efforts:
Protected areas and conservation initiatives are in place.
Awareness campaigns are being conducted to protect this unique plant.
Locarno Film Festival
What is it?
An annual international film festival held in Locarno, Switzerland.
Known for its open-air screenings and focus on independent cinema.
Shah Rukh Khan at Locarno Film Festival
Award: Received the prestigious Pardo alla Carriera (Career Leopard) award.
First Indian to receive this honor.
Recognition: Acknowledged for his significant contribution to Indian cinema.
Impact: Brought global attention to Indian cinema and the festival.
Performance: Sang the iconic song "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" with the audience.
Announcement: Revealed his upcoming film "King" directed by Sujoy Ghosh.
International Day of Indigenous People
Context Recently, International Day of Indigenous Peoples was observed on 9th August to promote advocacy for Indigenous rights.
International Day of Indigenous Peoples: - The day is celebrated every year on August 9th, established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1994.
It Commemorates the initial meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in Geneva, 1982. 2024
Theme: Focuses on “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact.” Global Facts about Indigenous Peoples Approximately 200 indigenous groups choose to live in voluntary isolation in countries like Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and India.
An estimated 476 million indigenous people reside across 90 different countries. Indigenous populations constitute less than 6% of the global population but represent at least 15% of the world’s poorest.
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity: These communities speak a majority of the world’s estimated 7,000 languages and embody 5,000 distinct cultures.
East Timor
Recently, President Horta of Timor-Leste awarded President Droupadi Murmu the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, recognizing her contributions to public service, education, and women’s empowerment.
Kasturi Cotton Bharat Programme
The Kasturi Cotton Bharat programme of the Ministry of Textiles is a pioneering effort in traceability, certification and branding of Indian cotton.
The Kasturi Cotton Bharat program, initiated by the Ministry of Textiles, is focused on improving the traceability, certification, and branding of Indian cotton.
This initiative is a joint effort between the Government of India, specifically the Cotton Corporation of India, along with various trade organizations and industry stakeholders, to enhance the traceability and certification processes of cotton.
Nandini Sahakar Yojana
Recently, the Minister of Cooperation informed the Rajya Sabha about the Nandini Sahakar Scheme.
The Nandini Sahakar Yojana is designed to support women cooperatives in initiating business model-based activities under the oversight of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC).
The program centers on women, offering a structured approach to financial aid, project planning, mentoring, and enhancing capacities.
Coal Gasification
The government has introduced a ₹8500 crore scheme to provide viability gap funding (VGF) for Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects, supporting both public and private sectors.
Coal and lignite gasification is a process that converts solid coal or lignite into a gaseous mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.
This is achieved through a high-temperature reaction with oxygen and steam in a gasifier. The resulting gas mixture, known as syngas (synthesis gas), can be used as a fuel for power generation, chemical synthesis, or as a feedstock for producing synthetic fuels and chemicals. Gasification offers a cleaner alternative to direct combustion of coal, with the potential to reduce emissions of sulphur dioxide and particulates.
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