[Newsbits] 1-7.11.2024: Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR, Census 2025 & more

Summary: Zolgensma, a costly gene therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), offers hope to affected families in India by replacing the defective SMN1 gene to improve motor function. SMA is a rare disorder causing severe muscle weakness and loss, often apparent in infancy. Awareness and early diagnosis are essential for better outcomes, though treatment costs and limited access present significant challenges. Many families rely on crowdfunding and community support for this life-saving drug, while ongoing research seeks to lower costs and improve access.

Summary: Zimbabwe launched its second satellite, ZIMSAT-2, from Russia’s Vostochny Cosmodrome, marking a significant step in the nation’s space ambitions. Equipped with a multispectral camera, this low-Earth orbit satellite aids agriculture, resource management, and environmental monitoring. Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education confirmed the satellite’s successful orbit and optimal functionality. Local engineers and students actively contributed to the project, enhancing national technical expertise. ZIMSAT-2 is expected to boost Zimbabwe’s economic development in sectors like agriculture and mining, supporting data-driven decision-making and bolstering the nation’s role in space technology.

Summary: The Karnataka Waqf Board recently declared ownership of 17 monuments within Bidar Fort, including significant sites like the 16-Khamba mosque and Bahmani tombs, sparking tensions with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which manages the fort. Local farmers voiced concerns after receiving notices and seeing changes in land records, leading Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to assure they would not face eviction. The Joint Parliamentary Committee is now involved to address farmers’ grievances, with BJP MP Tejasvi Surya advocating for transparent land dispute processes. This situation underscores the challenge of balancing heritage conservation with local land rights.

Summary: India is showcasing its tourism potential at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London from November 5-7, 2024. With a significant Indian diaspora in the UK, India’s Ministry of Tourism is encouraging diaspora engagement through the “Chalo India” initiative, which promotes inbound tourism with incentives like gratis e-visas. The India Pavilion, inaugurated by officials including High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami, emphasizes MICE, Mahakumbh, and wedding tourism. India’s sustainable tourism goals, supported by digital tools like the Incredible India Content Hub and new infrastructure, align with the G20 roadmap for eco-friendly destinations, positioning India as a key player in global tourism.

Summary: India signed a $200 million loan with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to improve urban services in Uttarakhand through the Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project. Targeting key cities, the project will enhance water supply, sanitation, and urban mobility with climate-resilient infrastructure and support disaster preparedness. With a focus on empowering women through job training in transport and water management, the project also involves co-financing from the European Investment Bank ($191 million). This initiative aims to make Uttarakhand’s cities more sustainable and livable while boosting economic resilience and gender inclusivity.