The deaths of 10 elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR) have been linked to acute poisoning from fungal toxins, according to findings from the School of Wildlife Forensics and Health (SWFH) in Jabalpur. While the SWFH report ruled out Herpesvirus as a cause, the Sagar Forensic Laboratory found no traces of pesticides or fertilizers in the samples they tested. The investigation, initially focused on agricultural chemical contamination or poisoning, now points towards the consumption of fungus-infected kodu crops as the likely cause. The SWFH report, however, did not specify the exact nature of the toxins involved, leaving authorities with unanswered questions. The forest department is continuing its investigation, awaiting further reports from laboratories across the country, including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Hyderabad and the Center for Wildlife Conservation, Management, and Disease Surveillance at ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly. The IVRI report confirmed the presence of cyclopiazonic acid, a potent fungal toxin, in the elephant samples, exceeding 100 ppb. While the investigation continues, the focus now shifts to identifying the specific fungus responsible for the contamination and the precise levels of toxins involved.
09.11.2024
JMM Candidate Deepak Birua: Blaming Centre for Kolhan’s Woes Ahead of Jharkhand Elections
Deepak Birua, a three-time MLA from Chaibasa and the only Ho tribal minister in the previous Jharkhand government, is seeking re-election. He attributes the economic woes of the Kolhan region, particularly the closure of mines and rising unemployment, to the policies of the BJP-led central government. Birua dismisses the impact of Champai Soren’s switch to the BJP on JMM’s support base, claiming that Soren’s recent statements contradict his past actions and are alienating voters. He highlights the JMM government’s welfare schemes and dismisses the BJP’s “infiltration narrative” as an election tactic. Birua criticizes the Centre’s inaction on reopening mines and its alleged withholding of coal mining royalty dues, claiming that the BJP is using pressure tactics to harm the state’s economy. He also blames the Centre for hindering the implementation of the PESA Act and the distribution of Van Pattas. Birua expresses confidence in the JMM’s victory, citing the party’s popular welfare schemes and the public’s dissatisfaction with the BJP’s policies.
Himachal Pradesh CM Emphasizes Efficient Implementation of Flagship Schemes
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed district officials to prioritize the implementation of the state government’s flagship schemes, ensuring that citizens benefit from them. He stressed the importance of good governance and transparency, urging officials to focus on improving services and addressing public grievances. To achieve this, the CM has instructed all DCs and SPs to dedicate two days a week to addressing public concerns in their offices, rather than prioritizing tours. He also encouraged officials to submit suggestions for enhancing governance and ensuring prompt service delivery. This directive reflects the government’s commitment to efficient administration and citizen-centric service delivery.
Smooth Paddy and Millet Procurement in Haryana, Concerns Arise in Other States
Haryana’s paddy and millet procurement process is running smoothly, with over 98% of the arrived paddy already procured and payments directly deposited into farmers’ bank accounts. The state government has introduced an online gate pass system to streamline the process. However, concerns are emerging in other states. Telangana’s Civil Supplies Minister has directed officials to ensure a smooth procurement process, while Punjab’s opposition leader criticizes the AAP government’s handling of paddy procurement, citing a farmer’s suicide due to unsold crops as evidence of inaction.
Vadodara’s Long-Awaited Jungle Safari Nears Reality
The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has revived its long-stalled jungle safari project at Ajwa, aiming to launch the first phase by early 2024. After a failed public-private partnership, the VMC is now taking on the project independently, allocating Rs 10 crore for its development. The safari, spread across 150 acres, will initially feature herbivorous animals like spotted deer, blackbucks, and chinkaras, with visitors transported in open jeeps. The VMC is also exploring the possibility of introducing exotic animals, including wolves, hyenas, and swamp deer, to the safari and Sayajibaug Zoo.
Goa Extends IT Policy to 2027, Establishes Empowered Committee for Growth
The Goa government has extended its IT Policy, originally implemented in August 2018, until August 2027. This decision, made at a cabinet meeting on September 30th, aims to further boost the state’s IT sector. To facilitate this growth, a 17-member empowered committee, headed by the Chief Minister, has been established. This committee will play a crucial role in guiding and approving grants for IT firms and startups in Goa. The committee will also be responsible for monitoring the progress of these companies and ensuring the effective implementation of the IT Policy and Startup Policy. The notification emphasizes the committee’s authority in deciding incentives for companies and startups, expediting approvals for grants, and ensuring the smooth operation of both policies.
Goa’s District Mineral Foundation Seeks to Reduce “Directly Affected” Area for Mining
The Goa government is considering a proposal to reduce the area considered directly affected by mining operations from 15km to 10km from the boundary of mining leases. This change, proposed by the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), aims to allow 70% of its funds to be allocated to areas directly impacted by mining, with the remaining 30% going to indirectly affected areas. The DMF argues that Goa’s small size necessitates a smaller “directly affected” area. The proposal, if approved by the governing council and state government, will require a revised definition of affected areas. The DMF, established in 2015, utilizes funds collected from mining operations to finance development projects and welfare programs in mining-affected areas. Additionally, the Directorate of Mines and Geology is conducting a study to assess the quantity and quality of low-grade iron ore dumps in the state, with the aim of granting permissions for their handling.
Venerable Agnelo de Souza’s 97th Death Anniversary to be Celebrated at Pilar
The 97th death anniversary of Venerable Agnelo de Souza will be celebrated at Pilar on November 20th, with a novena held from November 11th to 19th. Devotees are praying for de Souza’s beatification, with the canonization process ongoing in Rome. The celebrations will include special Masses led by Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, Simiao Fernandes, and Bishop of Baroda, Fr Sebastiao Mascarenhas. The novena will feature Masses in various languages, including Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi, reflecting the diverse community that venerates de Souza. Traffic flow will be one-way, with shuttle services available for those arriving by bus. Parking arrangements have been made behind the Pilar seminary. De Souza, born in 1869, was a renowned preacher who dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel in Goa. He passed away on November 20th, 1927, leaving behind a legacy of faith and devotion.
Chhattisgarh University Partners with CCMB to Combat Sickle Cell Anemia
Pt Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Health Sciences and Ayush University in Raipur has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hyderabad-based Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) to conduct genetic research and testing for sickle cell anemia in Chhattisgarh. This collaboration aims to improve diagnosis, identification, and prevention strategies for the inherited blood disorder. The agreement includes genetic testing and carrier analysis, enabling early detection and providing crucial information for at-risk populations. The partnership will foster knowledge exchange between faculty, researchers, and students, promoting academic and research excellence. Collaborative educational initiatives, such as seminars, workshops, and training programs, will raise public awareness and encourage participation in genetics and healthcare sectors. This collaboration is expected to significantly improve public health outcomes by providing access to diagnostic tools and essential health education in Chhattisgarh.
Chhath Puja Concludes with Sunrise Prayers in Bihar
The final day of Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival celebrated in Bihar, saw lakhs of devotees gather on Friday morning to offer prayers to the rising sun. The celebrations took place on the banks of the Ganga river and other water bodies across the state, with devotees offering ‘arghya’ (water offerings) to the sun god. Prominent figures like Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union Minister Chirag Paswan also participated in the festivities. The Patna district administration implemented safety measures at various ghats along the Ganges, including medical camps and increased security personnel, to ensure a safe environment for the devotees. The four-day festival, which began on November 5th with the ‘nahay-khay’ ritual, concluded with the sunrise prayers on Friday, marking the end of the auspicious occasion.