The Union cabinet has recently approved the establishment of the Sarakka Central Tribal University in Telangana. The institution is named after Sammakka-Sarakka, a revered tribal figure in Telangana State. Simultaneously known as Medaram Jatara, it ranks as the second-largest fair in India, surpassed only by the Kumbh Mela.
Significance of Sammakka-Sarakka and Celebrations by Koya Tribe
Sammakka-Sarakka or Medaram Jatara is a four-day long festival celebrated by the Koya tribe, the second-largest tribal community residing in Telangana. Commemorating the struggle of mother and daughter duo of Sammakka and Saralamma against an oppressive regime, the event takes place biennially in February (Magha). It’s organized in Medaram, a remote location within the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary – forming a part of Dandakaranya, the largest surviving forest tract in the region.
The Koya Tribe: The Largest Adivasi Tribe of Telangana
The Koya tribe, listed as a Scheduled Tribe in Telangana, is primarily found in the Telugu-speaking states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Their chosen epithets include “Dorala Sattam” (Lords group) and “Putta Dora” (original lords) in their dialect.
Indian Institute of Science’s Breakthrough Development: NanoPtA
Recently, scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Materials Research Centre made an innovative breakthrough by developing a sunlight-driven enzyme mimetic called NanoPtA. Upon contact with wastewater, it forms tape-like structures and emits light to degrade pollutants. It is capable of treating common effluents within 10 minutes under sunlight and retains its stability for up to 75 days.
The Promising Role of Nanozymes in Healthcare
In addition to its use in water treatment, the nanozyme might have potential applications in healthcare, especially concerning neurological diseases. Despite their efficacy, natural enzymes come with disadvantages such as sensitivity, complexity of production, and storage issues. This is where nanozymes come to the rescue, providing a means of overcoming these limitations by mimicking the function of natural enzymes.
Energy Vault’s Contribution to Solving Power Problems Using Gravity
To address renewable energy intermittency and interruption, Energy Vault is in talks with Indian companies like NTPC, Tata Power, and ReNew Power to utilize gravity-based energy storage. Through the EVx platform, Energy Vault uses gravity and mechanical elevators to store and release energy using substantial 25-tonne blocks.
India’s Journey Towards Renewable Power and Energy Storage
As India strengthens its push for renewable power, the importance of energy storage becomes crucial. Challenges for grid managers arise due to renewable energy growth. Currently, most energy storage globally relies on pumped hydro, but new alternatives are continuously sought. The Indian government is reportedly considering hydrogen and hybrid generation models for its energy storage, researching potential sites for pumped hydro, including opencast mines.
Facing Online Conspiracy Theories: Understanding 15-Minutes Cities
Despite false accusations and conspiracy theories online about 15-minute cities aiming to restrict people’s freedom, the reality is different. Coined by Carlos Moreno in 2016, the term “15-minute cities” refers to a planned urban development ensuring all essential services are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from home. Conspiracy theorists often misconstrue low-traffic neighborhoods (LTNs), integral to 15-minute cities, as being part of an expansive “war on drivers”.
