On September 19, 2023, the 12th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) meeting was held in New Delhi. The meeting was a platform to discuss the outcomes of two subcommittee meetings – the Sub-Committee on Military Cooperation held on July 27, 2023 and the Joint Sub-Committee on Defence Science Technology and Industry Cooperation held on September 18, 2023.
During the convocation, the Defence Secretary of India proposed an 8-point agenda to the Malaysian side. This proposal aimed at expanding cooperation between both countries in various areas including Government to government-level engagement, Tri-Service cooperation, Training, UN Peacekeeping, Bilateral Services Engagement, Defence Industrial Cooperation, Research & Development and Regional/ Sub-Regional Engagements.
Both India and Malaysia reaffirmed their commitment towards solidifying the Enhanced Strategic Partnership based on mutual trust, common interests, democratic values, and respect for the rule of law.
Biohacking: Evolution of Self-Modification
Biohacking is now drawing attention as an innovative technique of modifying one’s own body or biology. This practice involves using a variety of methods like diet changes, supplements, devices, implants, or even genetic engineering to attain a particular goal. These targets range from improving health, performance, well-being, appearance to exploring the potentials and limits of human nature.
The most recognized type of biohacking is genetic engineering which employs new technologies to augment physical appearances or capabilities. However, biohacking doesn’t come without its risks. It raises moral and safety questions, especially when individuals participate in hazardous or unverified procedures.
String Technology: Future of Lithium Production
Lithium is an essential component for manufacturing batteries for smartphones and electric vehicles. However, lithium production is a resource-intensive and time-consuming process, predominantly extracted from Brine Reservoirs located in salt flats. A new and promising technology called “String” could streamline lithium extraction.
The String Technology employs porous fibres, twisted into strings and meticulously engineered with a water-loving core and a water-repelling surface. The working principle involves immersing one end of the string in a saltwater solution. The capillary action is initiated, replicating how trees transport water from roots to leaves. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind salts like sodium and lithium. Over time, these salts get concentrated, forming sodium chloride and lithium chloride crystals which are then easy to harvest.
Nagorno-Karabakh: Centre of Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict
Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountainous and heavily forested region recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan, has been under Armenia’s control due to the majority ethnic Armenian population there. This region has been a major bone of contention between Armenia and Azerbaijan, leading to two wars.
In a recent incident, Azerbaijan initiated an anti-terrorist operation in the breakaway enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, backed by Armenia. The last significant conflict in this region lasted for six weeks in 2020 until a Russian-brokered ceasefire was implemented. This truce resulted in Armenia ceding large areas of territory that it had controlled since the 1990s. Despite being considered a part of Azerbaijan by international law, the ethnic Armenians who dominate the population reject Azeri rule.
