With the pressing issue of climate change, finding ways to develop climate-tolerant crops is becoming increasingly essential. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) are working on accelerated research to find solutions to this impending crisis.
In 2022, two types of seeds, those of arabidopsis (a plant from the cabbage family), and sorghum (jowar, cholam, or jonna), were sent to space. The aim was to expose these seeds to harsher environments and stimulate their genetic adaptation, making them more resilient to adverse climatic conditions. These seeds returned to Earth in March 2023 and are now being examined by scientists.
The researchers are mainly interested in understanding the impacts of cosmic radiation on these space-traveled seeds. Cosmic radiation comprises high-energy charged particles, x-rays, and gamma rays produced in space. Increased exposure to radiation can potentially induce genetic changes in the crops, helping them withstand higher temperatures, arid soils, and diseases. This can also prepare them for another threat posed by climate change – rising sea levels.
The urgency of this research is underscored by the fact that according to UN estimates, global food production has already shrunk by nearly 13% since 1961 due to rising temperatures and weather disruptions. The effects of global warming have made it challenging for farmers to maintain crop yields, thus aggravating food insecurity around the world.
Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council
In a recent development concerning the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, a significant resolution was passed unanimously. The council requested a ban on the entry of any media houses and individuals into Leh who attempted to tarnish the image of Dalai Lama, the foremost spiritual leader of the Gelug or “Yellow Hat” school of Tibetan Buddhism, as regarded by the Tibetan people. The LAHDC, which administers the Leh district of Ladakh, was established under the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act of 1995.
Global Unicorn Index
The Global Unicorn Index 2023, released by Hurun, places Swiggy, Dream11, and BYJU’S as India’s top unicorns. Unicorns refer to privately-owned companies boasting a market capitalization of over USD 1 billion. They are often associated with innovative solutions and groundbreaking business models.
The report indicates that, in terms of the number of unicorns, India stands as the third-largest country globally, behind the US and China. However, when talking about the most valuable non-state-controlled corporations worldwide (Hurun Global 500 companies), India ranks fifth. Intriguingly, the report reveals that more Indian unicorns are based outside India than within its national borders. India currently hosts 138 unicorns.
In addition to this, the report identifies India as the third-biggest player in terms of the number of gazelles. These are startups established in the 2000s, valued at over $500 million but not yet listed, and are expected to attain unicorn status within three years.
Exercise INIOCHOS-23
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to participate in Exercise INIOCHOS-23, a multi-national air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force of Greece. This comes after the IAF’s participation in Cope India with the US and the Orion exercise hosted by France.
The IAF plans to bring four Su-30 MKI and two C-17 aircraft to INIOCHOS-23. The main goal of participating in such exercises is to enhance international cooperation, synergy, and interoperability among the involved air forces.