[Newsbits] 19-30.11.2024: Nanozymes, E-Daakhil Portal & more


Exercise AgniWarrior 2024, a joint India-Singapore military drill focusing on artillery operations, takes place from November 28-30 at the Devlali Field Firing Ranges in Maharashtra. The exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation, share operational practices, and deepen cultural ties. It follows enhanced bilateral defense agreements, including a five-year Joint Military Training extension. India-Singapore ties were upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during PM Modi’s visit, emphasizing trust and collaboration in defense, technology, and education. This exercise reinforces their partnership and sets the stage for future initiatives, including celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2025.

TRAI has implemented new traceability guidelines effective December 1, 2024, to combat spam and phishing and ensure secure OTP delivery. The rules require banks, e-commerce platforms, and promotional message senders to track and confirm the message delivery chain using the Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) framework. Messages must include call-back numbers and URLs for transparency. TRAI aims to enhance messaging security and reduce fraudulent activities, though initial challenges like compliance and system adaptation may arise. These measures are expected to improve cybersecurity, promote accountability, and ensure user trust in communication systems.

The National Seed Congress (NSC) emphasizes updating India’s seed policies, such as the Seeds Bill of 2004, to reflect agricultural advancements and address farmers’ challenges. Key discussions include enhancing seed quality assurance, fostering public-private collaborations, and supporting smallholder farmers. Experts advocate educating farmers about quality seeds and increasing investment in research for hybrid development. Challenges like outdated laws, funding gaps, and balancing proprietary technologies with farmers’ rights remain. Strengthening stakeholder partnerships and revising policies can bolster India’s seed sector, aligning it with modern standards and ensuring sustainable agricultural growth.

The Arunachal Pradesh government launched Mission Arun Himveer to improve market access for agricultural and horticultural products by partnering with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Farmers, SHGs, and FPOs will supply locally sourced fruits, vegetables, meat, and poultry directly to ITBP under a streamlined payment system backed by a ₹4 crore revolving fund. The initiative builds on a similar 2022 collaboration with the Indian Army and aims to generate ₹10 crore annually while boosting rural economies and women’s empowerment. Despite logistical challenges, the mission is a vital step in connecting remote farmers with sustainable markets.
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