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As urbanization accelerates, with projections indicating over 70% of the global population will reside in cities by 2050, the demand for sustainable food production intensifies. Vertical farming, which utilizes stacked layers to grow crops in urban settings, is emerging as a viable solution, particularly when powered by solar energy. This method employs technologies like hydroponics and controlled-environment agriculture, optimizing space and reducing the need for arable land. Solar energy plays a crucial role by providing artificial lighting, climate control, and efficient water management, making vertical farms energy-independent and environmentally friendly. While challenges such as high initial costs and limited rooftop space persist, innovative solutions like leasing models and government subsidies are being explored. Successful examples from companies like AeroFarms and Sky Greens highlight the potential of solar-powered vertical farms, paving the way for a sustainable urban agriculture future that addresses food security and climate change. 
Published: Dec 28 2024, 10 ameznews.inA tragic aviation disaster unfolded on December 29, 2024, at Muan International Airport in South Korea, where a Jeju Air passenger plane carrying 181 people caught fire after its landing gear reportedly malfunctioned. The aircraft skidded off the runway and collided with a concrete fence, resulting in the deaths of at least 85 individuals, including 46 women and 39 men. Emergency services deployed 32 fire trucks and helicopters to combat the blaze, managing to rescue two crew members. The plane was returning from Bangkok, and among the passengers were two Thai nationals, prompting condolences from Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This incident marks one of South Korea's deadliest air disasters since 1997, occurring amid a significant political crisis involving the impeachment of acting President Han Duck-soo. Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok has taken charge of the response efforts.
Published: Dec 29 2024, 10 ameznews.inAs climate change escalates, the agricultural sector faces increasing scrutiny due to its significant role in greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Regenerative agriculture has emerged as a crucial solution, focusing on restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and building resilience against climate challenges. Research indicates that implementing regenerative practices on 40% of global cropland could potentially reduce emissions by 600 million tonnes annually. Key methods include no-till farming and cover cropping, which improve soil structure and sequester carbon. Beyond environmental benefits, regenerative agriculture can enhance crop yields and profitability, with studies showing a 15-25% return on investment for farmers. However, transitioning to these practices poses challenges, including initial costs and the need for technical training. Government policies and collaboration among stakeholders are vital for scaling this movement, which not only addresses climate issues but also fosters sustainable food systems and revitalizes rural economies.
Published: Dec 29 2024, 9 ameznews.inAs agricultural supply chains face increasing challenges, including price volatility and post-harvest losses, collateral management emerges as a vital tool for enhancing resilience and ensuring food security. This structured approach involves securing loans through the management of stored commodities, which helps mitigate risks by safeguarding quality and providing transparency in transactions. Key strategies include using technology for real-time monitoring, implementing comprehensive insurance, and conducting regular quality checks. The integration of innovations such as ERP systems and AI algorithms further strengthens these practices, promoting trust among stakeholders. To fully realize the benefits of collateral management, collaboration among farmers, traders, and financial institutions is essential, alongside government support for regulatory frameworks. By fostering skill development and financial literacy, the agricultural sector can leverage collateral management to create a more stable and efficient ecosystem, paving the way for a sustainable agricultural future.
Published: Dec 29 2024, 10 ameznews.inThe Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has credited an interest rate of 8.2% for the financial year 2023-24 to its subscribers, while also announcing that 7.7 million Employees’ Pension Scheme members will be able to withdraw pensions from any bank starting next month. The Central Board of Trustees (CBT) has simplified the criteria for banks to collect EPF contributions, expanding eligibility to more Scheduled Commercial Banks. Additionally, the CBT has amended the EPF Scheme to allow interest payments up to the date of settlement. The Ministry of Labour reported that registrations on the e-Shram portal have exceeded 300 million, and the National Career Service portal has listed nearly 19 million job vacancies. Efforts are underway to develop a social security framework for gig and platform workers, with a report expected early next year. All states are anticipated to complete the harmonization of new labour codes by March 2025.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 6 pmeznews.inRussian President Vladimir Putin has expressed condolences to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev following the crash of an Azerbaijani airliner in Kazakhstan that resulted in 38 fatalities. While Putin referred to the incident as "tragic," he did not accept responsibility amid growing allegations that the plane was shot down by Russian air defences responding to Ukrainian drone activity near Grozny. The Kremlin confirmed that air defence systems were active at the time of the crash, but did not explicitly state that one of these systems hit the aircraft. Survivors reported hearing loud noises before the plane, which was attempting to land in Grozny, diverted to Kazakhstan. Both Russian and Azerbaijani authorities are conducting investigations, with Azerbaijan Airlines citing "physical and technical interference" as a potential cause. The incident has led to several airlines suspending flights to Russian cities due to safety concerns.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 9 pmeznews.inUnion Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, alongside Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, conducted a review of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) project in Lothal, Gujarat, on Saturday. The NMHC, part of the Sagarmala Programme, aims to celebrate India's maritime heritage through an innovative "edutainment" approach, utilizing advanced technology to attract international tourists. During their visit, the ministers inspected key project sites, including INS Nishank and the Lothal Jetty Walkway, and engaged with onsite workers to address their challenges. Sonowal reported that 65 percent of Phase 1A of the project is complete and remains on schedule, positioning Lothal, an ancient city known for its advanced dockyard and trade, as a global maritime heritage hub. The project is set to highlight India's rich maritime history from ancient to modern times.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 6 pmeznews.inForeign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have experienced a holiday slowdown, net selling ₹656 crore in Indian equities as of December 27, 2024, while simultaneously investing ₹17,331 crore in the primary market, indicating ongoing confidence in the Indian economy. Despite the recent outflows, FPIs have net invested ₹16,675 crore in equities this month, although this is significantly lower than the record ₹1.71 lakh crore invested in 2023. Analysts suggest that the trend of selling through exchanges and buying in the primary market reflects a cautious approach due to high valuations. Looking ahead to 2025, mixed sentiments prevail regarding FPI inflows, with potential recovery linked to corporate earnings growth, though challenges such as elevated valuations and a strengthening US dollar may hinder this. Meanwhile, FPIs have shown a strong preference for Indian debt markets, investing ₹1.12 lakh crore in 2024, bolstered by India's inclusion in global bond indices.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 8 pmeznews.inThe Indian auto industry is witnessing a shift in consumer purchasing behavior, with December sales of passenger vehicles (PVs) expected to surpass last year's figures. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), December sales have shown consistent growth over the past five years, except for a dip in 2021 due to the pandemic. This year, sales rose to 242,920 units, reflecting a positive trend. Consumers like South Delhi entrepreneur Vandana Khullar are now prioritizing immediate needs and discounts over long-term resale value, driven by attractive end-of-year offers and anticipated price hikes in January. This change in mindset is echoed by CS Vigneshwar, President of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations, who noted that buyers are now eager to capitalize on discounts and avoid price increases. The two-wheeler segment is also experiencing similar growth, with sales rising from 1,050,038 units in December 2022 to 1,211,966 units in December 2023.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 7 pmeznews.inIndia is on a transformative path to become a global leader in drone manufacturing by 2030, driven by initiatives like the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Originally limited to defense, drones are now revolutionizing sectors such as agriculture and healthcare, promising to create around 500,000 jobs and enhance economic prospects. The PLI scheme, with a budget of ₹120 crore, incentivizes local manufacturers with 20% financial support for value addition over three years, aiming to generate ₹5,000 crore in investments and ₹1,500 crore in incremental revenues. Additionally, the government has banned the import of commercial drones to bolster domestic production, while initiatives like the Namo Drone Didi scheme empower women-led Self-Help Groups with drone technology for agricultural services. This comprehensive strategy not only aims to boost innovation and competitiveness but also aligns with sustainable practices, positioning India as a key player in the global drone industry.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 10 ameznews.inThe shift towards private sector participation in India's electricity generation has significantly transformed the landscape, with private entities now accounting for 52% of the country's installed capacity, up from 15% in 2008. Notably, Rajasthan has emerged as a leader, experiencing a remarkable 125% growth in private electricity supply over the past five years, while Odisha and Chhattisgarh also saw increases of over 60%. In total, private sector electricity generation rose from 5.35 lakh million units (MUs) in 2019-20 to 6.9 lakh MUs in 2023-24. Gujarat remains the top producer, generating 97,000 MUs in 2023-24, followed by Chhattisgarh with 85,000 MUs. Experts attribute this growth to targeted policy reforms, infrastructure improvements, and a focus on renewable energy, particularly in states like Odisha and Rajasthan, which have enhanced their operational efficiencies and energy mixes.
Published: Dec 28 2024, 6 pm
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