Kerala Affairs
Waterbird census in Keralas Ramsar sites
Kerala <a href="https://exam.pscnotes.com/Agriculture-notes-for-state-psc-exams”>Agriculture University (KAU) has launched a waterbird census and monitoring in wetlands declared as Ramsar sites in the state. The year-long study will be conducted in 20 select spots in Ashtamudi Kayal, Sasthamkotta lake, Vembanad Kayal, Kuttanad and the kole lands in Thrissur.
The study is expected to throw Light on the specificities and status of these sites. It will also seek to explore if there is any link between the avian influenza and the arrival of migratory birds. A KAU release said the study proposes to draw up an action plan for conserving the unique ecosystem of the wetlands and the birds there, through a participatory approach.
The study will be conducted in collaboration with the state governments Directorate of Environment and <a href="https://exam.pscnotes.com/Climate-change”>Climate Change and the State Wetland Authority.
National and International Affairs
HP Government Aims to Formulate Green Hydrogen Policy
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has informed that aGreen Hydrogen policywould be formulated to promote the use of green hydrogen and establish the state as a leading hub for its production. Resources, including ample sunlight, water, and wind, make the state an ideal location for generating green hydrogen. The primary objective of the Green Hydrogen Policy is to attract investments in large-scale renewable energy projects, ensuring a consistent and sustainable supply of green electricity for electrolysis.
The chief minister stated that the government is actively encouraging young entrepreneurs to invest in the state and the new green energy policy will include various provisions to facilitate their participation.
By giving leverage to the natural advantages, the state aims to create a favorable Environment for the production of green hydrogen.
Mumbai Ranks Sixth In Annual Housing Price Growth Among 46 Cities Globally
Mumbaihas moved up to the sixth rank among 46 global cities in terms of annual price Growth of high-end residential properties, with an appreciation of 5.5%, according to a report by real estate consultantKnight Frank India.
The report, titled Prime Global Cities Index Q1 2023, notes that Bengaluru and New Delhi have also registered an increase in Average annual prices in the first quarter of 2023.
ThePrime Global Cities Indexis a valuation-based index tracking the movement of prime residential prices across 46 cities worldwide, tracking nominal prices in local currency.Dubaiclinched the top position globally in terms of the increase of 44.2% in prime residential properties values.
Farmers Producers Organisation (FPO): 1100 FPOs have been allocated to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)
The formation and promotion ofFarmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)has gained significant attention in recent years, as it holds immense potential to transform the agricultural landscape. FPOs are essentially collective entities formed by farmers, enabling them to join forces, pool Resources, and enhance their bargaining power. Under the central scheme titled Formation and Promotion of 10,000 FPOs, the government has allocated 1,100 FPOs to theNational Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)to bolster the cooperative sector and provide comprehensive support to small farmers.
FPOs serve as a platform for farmers to come together, share knowledge and experiences, and collectively address common challenges. These organizations offer end-to-end Services that encompass various aspects of cultivation, including inputs, technical support, processing, and Marketing. By leveraging economies of scale, FPOs help small producers access better prices, reduce transaction costs, and enhance overall productivity.
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to open first overseas office in Abu Dhabi
TheAsian Investment Bank (AIIB)has recently signed an agreement to create its first Interim Operational Hub inAbu Dhabi Global Market, marking its initial foray into establishing an overseas office. AIIB is a multilateral Development Bank that focuses on financing infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainability. As the host country for COP28 later this year, theUAEhas emphasized the importance of Climate finance, a key concern for nations as they strive to increase their efforts and commitments towards climate action.
The AIIB has established its first Interim Operational Hub in Abu Dhabi Global Market, which will serve as its initial overseas office.
The office will have a strategic location in theMiddle East and the world, and will support the Banks development agenda by financing infrastructure projects that prioritize sustainable economic Growth, particularly in areas where it is most needed.