The wheat-producing regions of Afghanistan are currently grappling with a significant Moroccan locust outbreak. This phenomenon, which has affected eight provinces, poses a real threat to the nation’s food security and economy.
The Extent of the Damage
The devastation is expected to result in the destruction of about 700,000-1.2 million tonnes of wheat, approximately a quarter of the annual harvest. If no control measures are implemented, the locust population could multiply by a hundredfold in the forthcoming year. Such an increase will exacerbate the food security crisis in Afghanistan and its neighboring countries.
Understanding Moroccan Locusts
Moroccan locusts, known scientifically as “Dociostaurus maroccanus”, belong to the Acrididae family, which includes grasshoppers and locusts. These insects are notorious for their ability to form swarms, causing substantial agricultural damage in the regions they infest.
Adult Moroccan locusts typically measure around 4-5 centimeters in length, with a robust body, short antennae, and powerful hind legs adapted for jumping. Their color can vary from greenish-brown to reddish-brown.
Implications for Agriculture
Moroccan locusts are considered one of the most economically damaging plant pests worldwide. Their impact extends beyond wheat, as they can consume over 150 species of plants, including tree crops, pastures, and various food crops grown in Afghanistan.
Bhopal: Taking the Lead in Sustainable Development
Bhopal has made significant strides towards localizing the United Nations-mandated sustainable development goals (SDGs). The city has become the first in India to adopt voluntary local reviews (VLR).
The Localisation of SDGs
The SDGs localisation translates the global agenda of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development into actionable local plans. Bhopal’s VLR is the result of a collaboration between the Bhopal Municipal Corporation, UN-Habitat, and various local stakeholders.
Tracking Development Progress
In 2015, all 193 member states of the UN adopted the Agenda 2030, comprising 17 SDGs and 169 targets. The progress towards these goals is tracked through voluntary national reviews (VNRs) submitted to the UN’s high-level political forum (HLPF).
World Migratory Bird Day 2023: Celebrating Water’s Importance
May 13, 2023 marked the celebration of World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD). The theme centered on the importance of water for migratory birds.
Action before World Environment Day
Various activities were organized across India as part of the Mission LiFE program in anticipation of World Environment Day. The events aimed to underscore the importance of biodiversity conservation and environmentally friendly habits.
Promoting Bird Conservation
WMBD is a bi-annual global campaign aimed at raising awareness about migratory birds, emphasizing the need to preserve their habitats.
INS Kavaratti in Batam for Samudra Shakti-23
The 4th edition of India-Indonesia Bilateral exercise, Samudra Shakti-23, started upon the arrival of INS Kavaratti, an indigenously designed and built ASW Corvette, in Batam, Indonesia.
Purpose of the Exercise
The exercise, which is taking place from May 14-19, 2023, aims to enhance interoperability, jointness, and mutual cooperation between the Indian and Indonesian navies.
Naval Assets involved
Alongside INS Kavaratti, an Indian Navy Dornier Maritime Patrol aircraft and Chetak helicopter are also participating. The Indonesian Navy is represented by KRI Sultan Iskandar Muda, CN 235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and AS565 Panther Helicopter.
Other India-Indonesia Naval Exercises
The other notable exercises between the two nations include Garuda Shakti, a joint military exercise, and India-Indonesia CORPAT, a coordinated patrol, aimed at enhancing maritime security and cooperation in the Andaman Sea and Straits of Malacca.
