Let’s delve into a series of important events and policy shifts in the world. These include the 18th National Scout Guide Jamboree in India, the Japanese government’s efforts to stop demographic decline, the first-ever Wildlife Conservation Bond from the World Bank, and the significance of World Braille Day.
The 18th National Scout Guide Jamboree: Progress with Peace
Beginning on 4th January and running until 10th January 2023, the Bharat Scouts & Guides (a voluntary organisation) will be hosting the 18th National Jamboree in Rajasthan. The theme for this year is “Progress with Peace”. Forty-nine years ago, the inaugural National Jamboree took place in Andhra Pradesh. Held either every four years or on special occasions, this national level gathering provides Scouts and Guides the chance to interact with youth from various Indian states and beyond. In fact, about 35,000 scouts, guides, and adult leaders from across India and SAARC countries are set to partake in this significant event.
Tackling Population Decline: Japan’s New Initiative
Japan’s government is actively working towards reverting decades of demographic decline and economic migration by sweetening the deal for families willing to move out of Tokyo. They plan to offer financial incentives of up to 1 million yen per child, which is over three times the amount offered under the existing scheme operational since 2019. However, those who accept this offer must commit to living in the provinces for at least five years or else reimburse the state. Moreover, there are additional conditions to be strictly met to derive and keep the full benefits.
A First-of-its-Kind: The Wildlife Conservation Bond
In 2022, the World Bank rolled out the world’s debut Wildlife Conservation Bond, accumulating USD 150 million. The proceeds from this bond will partly fund the conservation efforts for black rhinos in South Africa. The Wildlife Conservation Bond is a unique financial tool designed to channel investments towards achieving measurable conservation outcomes—like an increase in the population of black rhinos. Due to the imminent threat to various other wildlife species, considerations are being made to expand this program.
World Braille Day: Advocating for Inclusion
Since 2019, World Braille Day has been celebrated every year on 4th January. Its inception was driven by the aim to accentuate the importance of Braille as an effective communication tool promoting the realization of human rights for visually impaired individuals. Invented by Louis Braille in 19th century France, Braille uses six dots to represent each letter, number, and even musical, mathematical, and scientific symbols. Braille helps visually impaired people to access the same literary resources as those with sight. As per the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006), Braille is crucial in the realms of education, freedom of expression and opinion, and social inclusion.