1. Flu cases rising in India, Two suspected H3N2 deaths
Tags: Science and Technology National News
The Union Health Ministry has confirmed one death each in Haryana and Karnataka due to H3N2 subtype of flu virus in March.
An overview of the news
Figures from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program show that at least nine people died of the flu in January.
What is the H3N2 virus?
Influenza virus, which causes the infectious disease called flu, is of four different types – A, B, C and D.
Influenza A is classified into different subtypes and one of them is H3N2.
Influenza A is an RNA virus. It is classified into subtypes based on the type of two proteins found on its surface.
Influenza D virus is found in cattle and pigs.
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), H3N2 caused the flu pandemic of 1968, which caused the death of about one million people worldwide and about 100,000 in the US alone.
Symptoms of H3N2
Symptoms are similar to that of any other flu.
Cough, fever, body ache and headache, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, and extreme fatigue are common symptoms.
In some cases, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are also seen.
Transmission
H3N2 influenza is highly contagious and can spread from person to person when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes.
It can also spread by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching someone's mouth or nose.
People at higher risk of complications from the flu include pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions.
Treatment
Getting proper rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and using pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever are all parts of H3N2 influenza treatment.
Doctors may also recommend antiviral drugs like oseltamivir and zanamivir if a patient has severe symptoms.
2. Global Millets Conference to be inaugurated by PM Modi in New Delhi
Tags: Summits National News
The Global Millets Conference will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 19, 2023 in New Delhi
An Overview of the News
Agriculture ministers from six countries, international scientists, nutritionists, health experts, start-up leaders and other stakeholders from over 100 countries will participate in the conference.
The Prime Minister will unveil a customised postage stamp and currency coin on the International Year of Millets (IYM) - 2023 during the event.
The two-day conference will have sessions on a wide range of issues related to millets, including publicity and awareness, value chain development, health and nutrition, market linkages and research and development.
An exhibition-cum-buyer-seller meet will also be organised with a focus on millets with the participation of over 50 domestic and international buyers, importers, exporters and processors.
The exhibition will showcase millet and millet-based ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat products, by millet-based startups and exporters, and live cooking sessions by various international and national chefs.
Based on India's proposal, the year 2023 was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Millet Year.
Engaged all Ministries and Departments of the Central Government, States and Union Territories, farmers, start-ups, exporters, retail businesses and other stakeholders to promote and spread awareness about the benefits of millets to the farmer, consumer and the climate.
About Millet
India is the largest producer of millets in the world and the second largest exporter of these grains.
Millets have been an integral part of India's food culture for centuries, and several types of millets are grown in the country, including jowar, ragi, bajra, kuttu, ramdana, kangni, kutki, kodo, china, and sama.
Millets are known for their many health benefits, including being a good source of protein, fibre and micronutrients.
Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttarakhand being the top 10 states in terms of millet production.
Together, these 10 states account for almost 98% of millet production in India during the 2020-21 period.
3. Cabinet approves listing of IREDA on Stock Exchanges
Tags: Economy/Finance National News
The Union Government on 18 March approved the listing of the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) on the stock exchanges.
An overview of the news
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) decided to approve an Initial Public Offer (IPO) by way of partial sale of the government's stake in CPSEs to raise funds by issuing fresh equity shares.
The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) will carry out the listing process.
Earlier in the year 2017 also IREDA was given approval to bring IPO.
According to the government, in March 2022, it was decided to invest Rs 1500 crore in IREDA.
This has changed the capital structure of the company, due to which it has become necessary to bring an IPO.
Significance of the move
The approval will help the IPO unlock the value of the government's investment and provide an opportunity to the public to own a stake in national assets and earn from it.
This will help IREDA to raise a part of its capital requirement for carrying out development plans without depending on the exchequer.
The move will improve governance through greater market discipline and transparency arising out of listing requirements and disclosures.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)
It was incorporated as a Public Limited Company in the year 1987 as a 'Non-Banking Financial Institution'.
It is a Miniratna (Category 1) type company functioning under the administrative control of 'Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.
Its function is to encourage projects related to new and renewable energy sources and to provide them financial assistance for their development.
It has been notified as a 'Public Financial Institution' under section 4'A' of the 'Companies Act, 1956'.
Chairman and Managing Director - Pradip Kumar Das
4. India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline to be jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and Sheikh Hasina
Tags: International News
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline through video conference on March 18, 2023.
An Overview of the News
The India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline is a proposed 130 km long pipeline for high-speed diesel transport from Siliguri in India to Parbatipur in Bangladesh.
Maitri Pipeline is the first cross-border energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh with an estimated cost of Rs 377 crore.
The pipeline has a capacity to transport 1 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of high-speed diesel (HSD), and will be constructed by India's Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) at an estimated cost of USD 1.6 billion.
Initially, the pipeline will supply high-speed diesel to seven districts in northern Bangladesh.
The operationalization of the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline will provide a sustainable, reliable, cost-effective and environment-friendly mode of HSD transportation from India to Bangladesh.
The pipeline will enhance cooperation in energy security between India and Bangladesh.
This is part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Bangladesh in April 2017 to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector.
The pipeline will help Bangladesh meet its growing energy demand and reduce its dependence on imported fuel, while providing an opportunity for India to expand its energy exports to neighbouring countries.
About Bangladesh
Prime Minister - Sheikh Hasina
Currency - Bangladeshi Taka
Capital - Dhaka
5. Union Home Ministry announced 10% reservation for former Agniveers
Tags: Defence National News
The Union Home Ministry has announced a 10% reservation for former Agniveers in the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
An Overview of the News
Its objective is to provide opportunities to a specific group and promote their participation in the Armed Forces.
This reservation is similar to the reservation announced for former Agniveers in the Border Security Force (BSF).
Former Agniveers will get relaxation in the upper age limit and will also be exempted from Physical Efficiency Test.
The upper age limit for candidates of the first batch of Agniveers shall be relaxed by up to five years, whereas the other batches shall get age relaxation by up to three years.
The Agnipath scheme has been launched by the central government for recruitment in the Armed Forces.
The Agnipath scheme was approved by the Indian Government in June 2022.
The scheme aims to induct youth between 17-and-a-half years of age and 21 years of age on a four-year short-term contractual basis.
The scheme has been designed to ensure a youthful profile of the Armed Forces.
6. Indian Railways to become Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030
Tags: National National News
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav recently said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha that the Indian Railways is working on a mission mode to become the largest green railway in the world and towards becoming a "net zero carbon emitter" by 2030.
An overview of the news
Indian Railways has taken several initiatives to reduce carbon emissions which include the use of energy efficient technologies.
Indian Railways is starting production of three phase electric locomotives with regenerative features, use of Head on Generation (HOG) technology, use of LED lights in buildings and coaches, use of star rated equipment.
In addition, key strategies identified to achieve the net zero carbon emission target are procurement of electricity through renewable energy sources, transition from diesel to electric traction, promotion of energy efficiency, and afforestation.
The projected energy demand of Indian Railways
The estimated energy demand of Indian Railways is expected to be around 8,200 Megawatts (MW) in 2029-30.
To achieve net zero carbon emissions, the expected requirement of renewable capacity by 2029-30 would be around 30,000 MW.
By February 2023, about 147 MW of solar plants and about 103 MW of wind power plants have been commissioned.
In addition, about 2150 MW of renewable capacity has also been tied up.
Indian Railways plans to progressively procure renewable energy through various power purchase modes for its future energy requirements.
Contribution of railways towards combating Climate Change
Indian Railways has adopted an integrated approach to green transport to increase the total share of Indian Railways in land based freight traffic from the present 36 per cent to 45 per cent by 2030.
Indian Railways is setting up Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) across the country.
Its first phase is estimated to reduce emissions by about 457 million tonnes over a period of 30 years.
The traction diesel fuel will use 5 percent blending of biofuels.
Water use efficiency will be improved by 20 percent by 2030.
Plantation will be done to increase carbon absorption, there will be emphasis on waste management and pollution control.
The Minister of Railways - Ashwini Vaishnaw
7. Indian Railways to become Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030
Tags: National National News
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav recently said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha that the Indian Railways is working on a mission mode to become the largest green railway in the world and towards becoming a "net zero carbon emitter" by 2030.
An overview of the news
Indian Railways has taken several initiatives to reduce carbon emissions which include the use of energy efficient technologies.
Indian Railways is starting production of three phase electric locomotives with regenerative features, use of Head on Generation (HOG) technology, use of LED lights in buildings and coaches, use of star rated equipment.
In addition, key strategies identified to achieve the net zero carbon emission target are procurement of electricity through renewable energy sources, transition from diesel to electric traction, promotion of energy efficiency, and afforestation.
The projected energy demand of Indian Railways
The estimated energy demand of Indian Railways is expected to be around 8,200 Megawatts (MW) in 2029-30.
To achieve net zero carbon emissions, the expected requirement of renewable capacity by 2029-30 would be around 30,000 MW.
By February 2023, about 147 MW of solar plants and about 103 MW of wind power plants have been commissioned.
In addition, about 2150 MW of renewable capacity has also been tied up.
Indian Railways plans to progressively procure renewable energy through various power purchase modes for its future energy requirements.
Contribution of railways towards combating Climate Change
Indian Railways has adopted an integrated approach to green transport to increase the total share of Indian Railways in land based freight traffic from the present 36 per cent to 45 per cent by 2030.
Indian Railways is setting up Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) across the country.
Its first phase is estimated to reduce emissions by about 457 million tonnes over a period of 30 years.
The traction diesel fuel will use 5 percent blending of biofuels.
Water use efficiency will be improved by 20 percent by 2030.
Plantation will be done to increase carbon absorption, there will be emphasis on waste management and pollution control.
The Minister of Railways - Ashwini Vaishnaw
8. IndiaAI ecosystem
Tags: Environment National National News
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The Ministry of Electronics and IT set up a task force for framing a draft roadmap for the artificial intelligence ecosystem by the end of April.
An overview of the news:
The Minister of State for Electronics and IT has announced the establishment of the IndiaAI platform, which aims to support research and provide tools for startups in the field of artificial intelligence.
This platform will focus on promoting Indian startups, research, and innovation, which could contribute to the growth of the Indian economy.
Estimates suggest that AI could potentially add USD 967 billion to the Indian economy by 2035 and USD 450-500 billion to India's GDP by 2025, which is a significant amount and could account for 10% of the country's USD 5 trillion GDP target.
About IndiaAI platform:
INDIAai stands for ‘The National AI Portal of India’ platform.
The platform was launched in 2018.
It is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM).
The primary objective of the IndiaAI platform is to create a collaborative ecosystem for AI in India by bringing together industry, academia, startups, and the government.
The platform provides a forum for stakeholders to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, share best practices, and access AI resources such as datasets, algorithms, and tools.
IndiaAI also aims to support the development of AI-based solutions that address societal challenges such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and urban development.
The platform provides access to funding, mentorship, and other resources to startups and entrepreneurs working on AI-based solutions.
IndiaAI has several initiatives like:
AI for All program: which aims to provide AI training to over 1 million citizens in India, and the AI research and innovation hub, which is a network of AI research centers and labs across the country.
9. IndiaAI ecosystem
Tags: Environment National National News
The Ministry of Electronics and IT set up a task force for framing a draft roadmap for the artificial intelligence ecosystem by the end of April.
An overview of the news:
The Minister of State for Electronics and IT has announced the establishment of the IndiaAI platform, which aims to support research and provide tools for startups in the field of artificial intelligence.
This platform will focus on promoting Indian startups, research, and innovation, which could contribute to the growth of the Indian economy.
Estimates suggest that AI could potentially add USD 967 billion to the Indian economy by 2035 and USD 450-500 billion to India's GDP by 2025, which is a significant amount and could account for 10% of the country's USD 5 trillion GDP target.
About IndiaAI platform:
INDIAai stands for ‘The National AI Portal of India’ platform.
The platform was launched in 2018.
It is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM).
The primary objective of the IndiaAI platform is to create a collaborative ecosystem for AI in India by bringing together industry, academia, startups, and the government.
The platform provides a forum for stakeholders to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, share best practices, and access AI resources such as datasets, algorithms, and tools.
IndiaAI also aims to support the development of AI-based solutions that address societal challenges such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and urban development.
The platform provides access to funding, mentorship, and other resources to startups and entrepreneurs working on AI-based solutions.
IndiaAI has several initiatives like:
AI for All program: which aims to provide AI training to over 1 million citizens in India, and the AI research and innovation hub, which is a network of AI research centers and labs across the country.
10. The US Senate appointed of Eric Garcetti as the United States Ambassador to India
Tags: Person in news International News
Eric Garcetti has been confirmed by the US Senate as the new ambassador to New Delhi, chosen by President Joe Biden for the role.
An Overview of the News
Garcetti was supported by a majority of Senators, with 52 in favour and 42 against.
Seven Republican Senators joined the Democrats in backing Garcetti for the role.
Eric Garcetti served as the mayor of Los Angeles, California in the past..
He is the first LA mayor in more than 50 years to be nominated for a diplomatic position.
About the US Senate
The US Senate is one of the two chambers of the US Congress.
It has 100 senators, each state is represented by two senators, who serve for six-year terms.
The Senate has significant powers, including the ability to approve presidential nominations and treaties, and to serve as a court for impeachment proceedings.
The Vice President of America is the leader of the Senate, but votes only in case of a tie.
