The international agricultural community is in a stir as the seven primary economic powers, known as the Group of Seven (G7) agriculture ministers, express their collective thoughts on the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI). The BSGI is a deal brokered in July 2022 by the United Nations and Turkey, permitting Ukraine to export over 27 million tonnes of grain via its Black Sea ports. However, opposition from Russia, who invaded Ukraine earlier in 2022, threatens the continuity of this initiative.
The G7 ministers vocally disapprove of Russia’s use of food as leverage, seeing it as an attempt to manipulate Ukraine’s policies and actions. Being steadfast, they have pledged their allegiance to Ukraine, promising support particularly for the segments of population most affected by Russia’s tactics. Additionally, the G7 has committed to assist in Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction efforts, including technical assistance in clearing agricultural lands from mines and repairing agricultural infrastructure, following the conflict with Russia.
Basava Jayanthi: Honoring a Social Reformer
Basava Jayanthi is a notable event celebrated in remembrance of Jagadguru Basaveshwara, a philosopher, statesman, social reformer, and saint prominent in the Shaivism Bhakti movement during the 12th century. His teachings are renowned for advocating gender equality, promoting societal reforms, and eradicating social discrimination and unjust practices.
Celebrated on the third day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaisakha, the event holds a significant place in the hearts of Lingayats in Karnataka. It marks the birth anniversary of Basaveshwara, who introduced Ishtalinga necklace wearing, symbolic of Lord Shiva, to Lingayats. He is also credited with establishing Anubhava Mantapa, which is considered the cornerstone of social democracy.
Earth Day: A Global Environment Initiative
Earth Day is a globally recognized occasion celebrated on the 22nd of April every year. EARTHDAY.ORG, previously known as the Earth Day Network, coordinates this event to instigate a global movement for instigating transformative changes beneficial for the Earth and its inhabitants.
In 2009, the United Nations declared 22nd April as ‘International Mother Earth Day,’ stressing the urgency for environmental conservation. The theme for the 2023 Earth Day calls for substantial investment in our planet, appealing to businesses, investors, financial markets, and governments for their proactive involvement.
Earth Day was first observed in 1970 to address environmental issues like smog, polluted rivers, and oil spills. The signing of the Paris Agreement on Earth Day 2016, aimed at reducing global greenhouse emissions, is a testament to the impact that Earth Day has had on driving substantial change.
National Panchayati Raj Day: Acknowledging Grassroots Governance
National Panchayati Raj Day, commemorated each year on the 24th of April, marks the enforcement of the 73rd amendment to India’s constitution in 1993. This amendment primarily grants constitutional status to panchayats, thereby acknowledging them as the third tier of local self-governance.
Although the system of panchayats was already recognized in states like Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal, the 73rd and 74th amendments made it a pan-India phenomenon by bringing uniformity. The Panchayati Raj system has been particularly successful in providing fair representation to women, with one-third of seats being reserved for them in local bodies.
However, there exists variation in autonomy across states, with some having greater devolution of financial powers than others. For example, Kerala and Maharashtra are noted as being the most progressive, while Odisha and Assam lag in implementation of devolution policies.
