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US-India Drone Deal Holds "Significant Potential": White House

The United States and India have announced a drone deal that holds significant potential for both countries. The deal, which was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit last year, marks a substantial growth in the US-India defence partnership over the past decade. The US State Department expressed optimism about the proposed drone deal with India, emphasizing its potential to advance strategic technology cooperation and enhance military collaboration in the region. Expanding US-India Defence Partnership: The US-India defence partnership has witnessed significant growth over the past decade, and the proposed drone deal is another milestone in strengthening bilateral ties. The deal aims to enhance strategic technology cooperation between the two countries and bolster military collaboration in the region. Congress's Crucial Role: The US State Department acknowledges the crucial role of Congress in the arms transfer process. Routine consultations with members of Congress on foreign affairs committees are conducted before formal notifications to address any questions or concerns they might have. The timing of the formal notification for the drone deal remains uncertain. Strengthening India's National Security: The proposed drone deal between the United States and India is part of broader efforts to strengthen India's national security and surveillance capabilities. With vast maritime and land boundaries and adversaries like Pakistan and China, India requires constant monitoring to safeguard its national security interests. The agreement would extend beyond the Indian Ocean and encompass the border region with China, enhancing India's surveillance capabilities. Implications for India's Defence: The acquisition of Predator drones from the US will significantly boost India's defence capabilities. The MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones, assembled in India, will enhance India's ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) capabilities across various domains. The drones' long endurance, ability to fly up to 36 hours continuously, and focused monitoring capabilities will provide valuable intelligence to the Indian armed forces. Quad Grouping's Involvement: The Quad grouping, consisting of the United States, India, Australia, and Japan, all operate or have operated the MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones. This collaboration highlights the shared interest in maintaining regional security and stability. India, currently leasing the MQ-9Bs for intelligence-gathering purposes, will soon acquire 31 Predator drones to be operated jointly by the tri-services. Comprehensive Global MRO Facility: As part of the drone deal, General Atomics, the manufacturer of the Predator drones, will establish a comprehensive global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India. This facility will not only support the maintenance and repair of the acquired drones but also contribute to India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. Expanding Defence Industry Cooperation: In addition to the drone deal, India and the United States have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the manufacture of GE F-414 jet engines in India. This collaboration will support the production of engines for the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Light Combat Aircraft Mk 2, further strengthening India's defence industry and self-reliance. The US-India drone deal signifies the growing strategic partnership between the two countries. The agreement holds significant potential to advance strategic technology cooperation and enhance military collaboration. With the acquisition of Predator drones, India's national security and surveillance capabilities will be strengthened, extending beyond its borders. The collaboration between General Atomics and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited further boosts India's defence industry and self-reliance. 

2 Feb 2024
Good News

Textile Triumph: India To Host the World’s Largest Textile Exposition!

India is poised to become a dominant and competitive global sourcing destination within the textile industry as it is gearing up to host the world’s largest textile event - "Bharat Tex 2024." It is anticipated to be a comprehensive representation of India's rich cultural heritage, traditional textile practices, and the latest technological innovations, Bharat Tex 2024 will encompass the entire textile industry value chain. With projections of over 1,000 exhibitors and an expected attendance of more than 30,000 visitors from 40 countries, the event will showcase knowledge sessions, seminars, conferences, CEO roundtables, and strategic investment announcements. This gathering is set to foster global collaborations that will reshape the textile industry landscape. In addition, the event will feature live demonstrations, cultural events, fashion presentations, exhibitions by designers and brands, fashion shows, sustainability workshops, and expert talks. According to Rachna Shah, Secretary of the Ministry of Textile, the textile industry has a substantial opportunity to increase exports, making "Bharat Tex 2024" a timely and essential event.This industry-led initiative will be organized jointly by 11 Textile-related Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and other industry bodies, showcasing detailed plans for the upcoming fair. "Bharat Tex 2024" signifies India's commitment to reshape the global textile landscape, showcasing its multifaceted strengths, sustainable practices, and unparalleled creativity on a global stage.

2 Dec 2023
Good News

Discover the One and Only Unrivaled Environment Film Festival!

Prepare for an extraordinary experience this December as ALT EFF, the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival, returns for its fourth edition. It promises an immersive journey into the heart of environmental narratives. Scheduled from December 1st to 10th, this festival stands to champion the cause of sustainability, environmental consciousness, and global collaboration through the power of film. ALT EFF isn’t just another film festival; it’s a movement, a call to action. It’s a platform dedicated to weaving the art of storytelling with the urgent need for environmental advocacy. This year, ALT EFF is set to astound audiences with a carefully curated selection of 62 films. From compelling documentaries to poignant short films and thought-provoking fictional pieces, each production echoes the pulse of environmental awareness. This year’s lineup boasts remarkable Indian films, shining a spotlight on local environmental challenges. Films like "Changing Landscape," "Herd Walk," and "Against the Tide" delve deep into issues affecting Indian ecosystems, showcasing struggles and resilience within communities. A groundbreaking moment awaits with the Indian premiere of "We Are Guardians," a gripping documentary supported by Leonardo DiCaprio. Directed by a talented team, this film journeys through the Amazon rainforest, narrating the courageous battle of Indigenous forest guardians against deforestation and illegal logging. Notable Indian short films like "Mulostan - The Rooted" and "Fight with Care" add depth, spotlighting the trials and triumphs of marginalized communities in their fight for rights and sustainability. The festival also features renowned filmmaker Kartiki Gonsalves on the jury panel, further emphasizing its dedication to highlighting films that echo environmental concerns. ALT EFF isn't just confined to screens; it's a decentralized movement, reaching audiences across India through over 40 on-ground screenings. This inclusive approach merges virtual and in-person events, fostering connections and conversations. Founder Kunal Khanna's impassioned commitment underscores the festival's purpose: inspiring collective engagement and learning in the face of our climate crisis. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage firsthand with thought-provoking films. Join the virtual screenings or local showings and be part of a movement driving environmental consciousness through cinema. Visit https://www.alteff.in/ for screening schedules and be a part of the change!

27 Nov 2023
Good News

A Novel Way To End Child Labor

The week-long Baliyatra festival is on in Cuttack and the district administration is using this opportunity to check child labor with the effect that it is yielding good results. A special pavilion has been set up at the fair for child laborers by the administration. The children are provided food, education, entertainment and vocational training completely free of cost. Nearly 50 children who were forced to work are visiting the pavilion attracted by the activities. District child protection officer Pragati Mohanty said every year officials and volunteers would rescue the children engaged in different odd jobs at the Baliyatra and convince their parents not to involve them in menial jobs. Yet their efforts went in vain as parents would engage the children in selling some items at the fair or begging. They contended that they didn’t have a safe place to keep their children and hence force the kids to work with them. Mohanty said that special day care centre for child laborers at the Baliyatra and have been set up to resolve this issue. The initiative has worked as child laborers, who have come from Bihar, West Bengal and other parts of the country, are coming to the centre on their own.   The children are provided basic education and mid-day meals. They play different games and trained to make items from paper and clay. Besides, the children are sensitized about child labor and abuse at the centre.

8 Nov 2017
Good News

Laboratory to study climate change to come up in Bengaluru

Taking into consideration the effects of globalization and how it has severely affected the climate, Bengaluru will soon come up with a dedicated climate change laboratory. Climate change has been taking a toll over people’s health and it has very badly affected the nature. In this changing state of nature, it is important to tackle the nature better. This laboratory will study, research and find ways to tackle the climate change. The Environmental Management and Policy Research Institute (EMPRI), located near JP Nagar, will be housing the centre under the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change with the help from department of science and technology (DST). This laboratory is expected to be set up in next two-three months. The process for procuring the equipment for laboratory has been already started. Various parameters pertaining to climate change in Karnataka will be the study in this laboratory. This state-of-the-art laboratory is expected to cost Rs 1.5 crore. The tenders for greenhouse gas (GHG) analyzer, digital electronic balance, dissolved oxygen meter, compound microscope and photo micrography are already out. All these technically sound equipment will help in reading accurate climate change and its impact on environment and communities. This laboratory will also help to train officials on the impact of climate change.  

11 Apr 2017
Good News

NCL to help tribals in Maharashtra with water purifiers, oxygen machines

Nearly 40,000 tribals from Thane and Palghar districts in Maharashtra will get access to clean drinking water, along with affordable healthcare, at local hospitals due to the initiative of  Mumbai based CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) which will be distributing water purifying machines and oxygen enriching units in tribal schools and government hospitals free of cost. With the view to develop the backward areas of the country using technological interventions, 38 Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) labs in the country were mandated to set up Gramin Vigyan Kutir (CSIR tech village) as part of the  CSIR 800 programme.  Programme in-charge and senior NCL scientist P K Ingle said that this initiative will make a difference in the lives of people who are deprived of the basic amenities. That's why they decided to make machines to provide pure drinking water for tribals and oxygen enriching units for use in rural hospitals. Thane, being the 10th largest district in the state, 14 per cent of its population comprise of tribals who  live in highly inaccessible areas which makes it difficult to provide them with power supply and other basic amenities. The  cost-effective oxygen enriching machines are developed by Genrich Membranes Pvt Ltd and procured by NCL. The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Rajendra Kharul said that the  machine is capable of supplying up to 35 per cent concentrated oxygen enriched air which will be of great assistance to patients with severe lung disorders, asthma or COPD.  The lab is also providing water purifying machines to government hospitals and ashram schools in the tribal belt . The NCL is also sponsoring the construction of 20 toilets, particularly for girl students, in the ashram schools of Palghar.

23 Mar 2017
Good News

Star Citizens

A Groundbreaking Robotic Innovation That Offers Solution to Cotton Farmers' Woes!

A team of students from the Institute of Aeronautical Engineering in Hyderabad has introduced a groundbreaking innovative solution to address the challenges faced by cotton farmers. Their creation, CultivOx by Agrodroid, is a rover robot designed to automate and simplify various cotton farming activities, from sowing to harvesting. Cotton cultivation in India has been grappling with a shortage of labor, leading to increased wages and reduced profit margins for farmers. Recognizing this issue, the team behind CultivOx embarked on a mission to alleviate the burden faced by cotton farmers. The robot is equipped to perform tasks such as weeding, fertilization, pesticide spraying, and harvesting, significantly reducing the dependency on manual labor. CultivOx not only streamlines the cotton farming process but also offers economic benefits. The robot aims to slash commercial margins by 81.45% and traditional margins by 76.06%. Additionally, it operates on solar-powered and CO2-neutral technology, promoting sustainable farming practices. The team plans to fine-tune the prototype using data collected at various stages of plant growth. Field testing is expected to commence in December 2023, with the launch of Minimum Viable Products scheduled for 2024. Recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of the Government of India, the final product is set to hit the market in July 2025, complete with certifications. Despite lacking business backgrounds, the team members—G Naveen, Vuppu Mahesh, K Jeshwanth Reddy, and Md. Adhnan—are driven by their vision to create employment opportunities and generate revenue for the country. Their pioneering robotic solution, CultivOx, holds immense potential to revolutionize cotton farming and alleviate the woes of cotton ryots across India.

15 Sep 2023
Star Citizens

Beyond the Pages: How One Youth Transformed a Village Through a Free Library

In the remote village of Halmathpora, nestled in the scenic landscapes of north Kashmir's Kupwara district, a young man named Mubashir Mushtaq embarked on a remarkable endeavor that would forever change the lives of children in his community. Driven by a desire to uplift society and eradicate child labor, Mubashir single-handedly established a free library, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. The seed of this noble initiative was planted when Mubashir witnessed numerous children from neighboring villages trapped in the clutches of child labor, deprived of education due to a lack of books. He was determined to make a difference when he realized how difficult it was to procure books during Covid-19 restrictions. Undeterred by the challenges ahead, Mubashir collected books from his friends, professors, and even the generous residents of Kupwara and his native village. These contributions laid the foundation for the establishment of the 'Let's Talk Library' in July 2022, an endeavor that garnered support from both near and far. Initially Mubashir met with skepticism from his parents, but his unwavering dedication soon won them over. They became staunch believers in his cause when they witnessed children from far-flung places flocking to study at the library. Mubashir's father even took up the responsibility of covering the library's annual rent of Rs 15,000. Currently, the library boasts a growing community of 52 registered students who has the opportunity to read over 3,000 diverse books. Ranging from competitive texts to English and Urdu literature, from Islamic writings to academic resources, the library offers a vast array of knowledge. Magazines and newspapers also grace its shelves, broadening the horizons of eager readers. Mubashir's efforts did not end with the provision of books alone. Under his 'Our Kids Our Future' initiative, over a hundred children gather at the library every Sunday, engaging in activities that nurture their personalities, foster English speaking skills, and cultivate public speaking abilities. Mubashir is determined to steer the youth away from the perils of drug addiction and instill in them a love for reading, enabling them to discover the true value of life. Furthermore, Mubashir envisions making study materials easily accessible to those who cannot afford private coaching, ensuring that knowledge becomes a gateway to a brighter future for all. Through his free library, Mubashir has opened doors to new worlds, empowering children and igniting a passion for learning that will shape generations to come.

20 May 2023
Star Citizens

The Journey of a Brick Kiln Child Laborer to a Master’s Degree Holder Is the Story of Triumph of the Human Spirit

Sivakumar, a resident of the Dharmapuri village of Karagoor faced many hardships as a child.  He was born into a poor Irular household and was compelled to work at a brick kiln with his uncle after his father, a daily-wage laborer, passed away. The youngster also took the brunt of the harassment and suffering that came from the kiln supervisors. He was rescued by an NGO and was later brought back home in 2003 when he was 10 years old. Lack of funds forced him to start working odd jobs once more, but with volunteers' assistance, he eventually joined the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) school and continued his education. Sivakumar completed his Class 10 through a correspondence course when he was 19 years old. He then enrolled in Class 11 at the age of 21. Despite all obstacles, Shivkumar was determined to learn. He was aware that the only way he could positively impact his community was through education. His sole motivation for earning a master's degree in social work was to be able to assist his community. He said that Irular youngsters were forced to work as laborers due to poverty, while girls ended up in child marriages. Shivkumar made up his mind to end such vices in society.  

9 Nov 2022
Star Citizens

How the Love of Farming Transformed a Kitchen Garden Into a Commercial Organic Farm

There are numerous kitchen gardens scattered around the Ukhrul countryside, but Lungmi Shingnaisui's garden stands out for a particular reason. It is richly laden with colorful flowers and healthy organic vegetables. However, things were substantially different seven years ago. Shingnaisui wanted to reduce her reliance on the market. Shingnaisui, like other new gardeners, started modestly and with familiar vegetables like cabbage, spinach, and celery. As the soil enriched with organic manure began to yield an abundance of vegetables, she realized she could sell part of the produce to supplement her family's income.  That was the beginning of her farming business which met with success due to her commitment to organic farming. What started as a simple task to supplement the family income and engage in healthy physical activity grew into a mini farm as more people who became increasingly conscious of healthy food and living, especially after the pandemic, started buying her produce. As production and demand for organic vegetables increased, Shingnaisui was in a dilemma - whether to choose commercial fertilizers for quick and higher turnover or stick to organic manure. She decided to go with the latter as that gave her great pleasure and satisfaction. She only uses natural fertilizers, such as cow and pig dung from her pig farm.  Over time, Shingnaisui introduced lettuce, bok choy, and Chinese cabbage (napa cabbage), which she says are a hit amongst youngsters. Shingnaisui supplies her produce to vegetable vendors, who daily purchase large quantities of her produce. Contentment is written large on Shingnaisui's face when she says that though it is labor-intensive and time-consuming, it is rewarding to see the garden full of organic vegetables, flowers, and plants. She adds that It gives her a lot of pleasure to watch the garden, especially in the morning.

9 Nov 2022
Star Citizens

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