India is a land of diverse culture, traditions, and ways of life. Amongst all these, there are numerous stories, initiatives, and events taking place across the country on any given day. Today, we explore one such concerning issue: the introduction of the Gambusia fish in the state of Andhra Pradesh for mosquito control, along with the celebration of the bicentenary year of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah in Kolkata. Additionally, we delve into the inauguration of the ‘CRCS-Sahara Refund Portal’ and learn about how Russia’s halting of the Black Sea Grain Initiative impacts global food security.
The Gambusia Fish: Biological Control Agent or Invasive Species?
Recently, the government of Andhra Pradesh has released approximately 10 million Gambusia fish, famously known as mosquitofish, into the state’s water bodies. This initiative is aimed at combating mosquito-borne diseases, given that the Gambusia fish can consume 100 to 300 mosquito larvae per day. While this fish, native to the southeastern United States, is widely used as a biological agent to control mosquito larvae, there are growing concerns over its introduction as an invasive alien species. This is particularly due to the potential harm it may cause to native species and the balance of the ecosystem. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has declared the Gambusia fish as one of the 100 worst invasive alien species globally. Despite the fish being invasive, several countries, including India, continue to use it in their malaria control programs.
Homage to Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
In another part of the country, Kolkata is gearing up to celebrate the bicentenary year of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last king of Awadh who was deposed by the British. The Nawab was later exiled to Metiabruz, a suburb of Kolkata, where he spent his remaining years. Known for his love for art, music, dance, poetry, and cuisine, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was a generous patron to many performers and artists in his court. He was also an accomplished writer, having composed under the pen-name ‘Qaisar’ and the pseudonym ‘Akhtarpiya’.
CRCS-Sahara Refund Portal: A Step towards Justice
In New Delhi, the Ministry of Cooperation recently inaugurated the ‘CRCS-Sahara Refund Portal’. This platform marks a significant move towards redressing the grievances of the depositors of the Sahara Group of Cooperative Societies. The primary aim of this portal is to streamline the process of disbursement of Rs. 5000 crores, which have been transferred from the ‘Sahara-SEBI Refund Account’ to the Central Registrar of Cooperative Societies (CRCS). This step has been taken following the directive of the Supreme Court. Deposit holders can now conveniently submit their claims via this online platform.
Russia’s Suspension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative
The recent halt in the Black Sea Grain Initiative by Russia raises concerns over global food security. The agreement, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022, permitted Ukraine to ship grain to countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. However, Russia’s decision to suspend this deal has disrupted essential food supplies, particularly in regions grappling with the threat of hunger. The suspension also exacerbates the issue of high food prices, pushing an increasing number of people into poverty.
