The India pavilion was a highlight at the World Mining Congress, recently held in Brisbane, Australia. The pavilion emphasized India’s technological advancements in the mining and energy sectors, along with its commitment to sustainable development practices.
World Mining Congress: A Global Gathering for Mining Experts
The World Mining Congress (WMC) serves as the premier international forum for global mining and resource industries. This event started in 1958 by Prof. Bolesław Krupiński, a renowned Polish scientist and mining engineer. WMC aims to promote scientific and technical cooperation in the sustainable development of mineral and energy resources. It also provides a platform to showcase latest innovations and best practices in these sectors. This congress takes place every three years around the world, with a permanent secretariat situated in Katowice, Poland, and a United Nations affiliation.
‘Report Fish Disease’ App: A Boost for Aquaculture
Moving on from the mining industry, the Indian Union Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, and Dairying has launched a new mobile application named ‘Report Fish Disease’. This app aims to assist fish farmers and enhance disease management in aquaculture. Diseases among aquatic animals are a significant challenge to aquaculture growth. And, disease surveillance is key for early detections, which helps in eradicating and containing these diseases. The ‘Report Fish Disease’ app will empower farmers to report diseases among finfish, shrimps, and molluscs to field-level officers and fish health professionals.
Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Route: A Game Changer for India-Russia Ties
India and Russia are eager to operationalize the Chennai – Vladivostok maritime route. This route traverses the Sea of Japan, the South China Sea, and the Malacca Strait. A Memorandum of Intent on ‘Development of Maritime Communications between the Port of Vladivostok and the Port of Chennai’ was signed by the Indian Prime Minister during his 2019 visit to Russia. This route can significantly reduce transport time and costs by almost a third, compared to the current popular route from St Petersburg to Mumbai. Besides, it would grant India access to the Far East, including countries like Mongolia, enhancing India’s presence in Southeast Asia.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: A Safe Haven for Wildlife
Lastly, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Odisha’s Bargarh district, is now entirely free from human settlements. The State Forest and Environment department have proposed it as a tiger reserve due to its high prey base. The sanctuary hosts a range of animals, including the Indian Bison, Wild Boars, Sambhar, and Peacocks. Moreover, the four-horned antelope, listed as vulnerable on the IUCN red list, also resides here. Adjacent to the sanctuary lies the Hirakud Reservoir, a Ramsar Site, and International Bird Area. The sanctuary holds historical significance as the base of Veer Surendra Sai, a renowned freedom fighter who fought against British colonial rule.