[Newsbits] 8-11.02.2024: Deep Tech, Fentanyl Crisis, & More

newsbits mindmap notes
Annual Death Penalty Report 2023 mind map
Recent News
Shift in Public Opinion
More Americans Believe
Death Penalty Applied Unfairly
Gallup Crime Survey
Opinions Since 2000
Exonerations
John Huffington
Jesse Johnson
Glynn Simmons
Total Years in Prison
109 Years Combined
When
Report Released
Year 2023
Why
Highlight Developments
Death Penalty Globally
Specific Emphasis
India and United States
What
United States Perspective
Supreme Court Decisions
Limited Intervention
State Actions
Florida's New Legislation
Alabama's Nitrogen Gas Plan
Indian Context
Appellate Courts
Only One Death Sentence Confirmed
Supreme Court
No Death Sentences Confirmed
Death Row Population
Increase in Numbers
Majority of Cases
Sexual Offences Related
Where
Geographical Focus
United States
India
Who
Organizations/Personalities
Death Penalty Information Center (DPIC)
Project 39A
National Law University, Delhi
Gallup Organization
Supreme Court
United States and India
How
Data Collection and Analysis
Surveys
Legal Proceedings Review
Death Sentence Records
Significance
Awareness Increase
Legal System Fallibility
Public Opinion Shift
Reduced Support for Death Penalty
Challenges
Judicial Oversight Concerns
State Legislation Contradictions
Legal System Vulnerabilities
Innocent People Risk
Way Forward
Continued Monitoring
Death Penalty Trends
Public Opinion Influence
Legal and Political Decisions

The Annual Death Penalty Report 2023 reveals significant shifts in public opinion and judicial practices regarding the death penalty. In the United States, there’s a growing perception of the death penalty being unfairly applied, with the Supreme Court showing limited intervention in death penalty cases. Meanwhile, in India, a notable decline in death sentence confirmations by appellate courts is observed, indicating a cautious approach towards capital punishment. The report underscores a global trend of decreasing support for the death penalty, driven by concerns about legal system fallibility and the risk of executing innocent individuals.

7th Indian Ocean Conference mind map
When
February 9-10, 2024
Where
Perth, Australia
Who
Organisers
India Foundation
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia
S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore
Perth-US Asia Centre, Australia
Attendees
Over 300 delegates
More than 50 foreign ministers
Heads of multilateral groupings
Notable Attendees
External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S Jaishankar
Sri Lankan President, Ranil Wickremesinghe
Foreign ministers from
Bangladesh
Maldives
Bhutan
Nepal
Foreign ministers from Africa, Pacific, Europe
Why
Strengthening regional cooperation
Discussing challenges in Indian Ocean
Maritime traffic threats
Piracy and terrorism
International law challenges
Freedom of navigation concerns
Sovereignty safeguarding
Trans-national threats
Illegal activities spectrum
Addressing grey areas
Climate change impacts
Natural disasters
Fuel, food, fertilizer crises
Unsustainable debt
Opaque lending practices
Unviable projects
Injudicious choices
Globalization challenges
Over-concentrations of manufacturing and technology
Covid-19 impact on production and supply-chains
Digital era and artificial intelligence implications
Future drivers
Digital technology
Electric mobility
Green hydrogen
Green shipping
What
Theme
"Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean"
Discussions
Regional security enhancement
Economic development strategies
Environmental sustainability
Perth as Venue
Major city along Indian Ocean
Western Australia's largest city
Proximity to India
Indian-origin population significance
How
Consultative forum
Policy dialogues
Strategic discussions
Significance
Geopolitical importance
Global trade transit route
Chokepoints like Strait of Malacca, Bab-el-Mandeb strait
Economic importance
Fast-growing economies
Rich in natural resources
Foreign investment destination
64% global population coverage
60% global GDP contribution
Security importance
Regional security threats
Military activity increase
Environmental importance
Marine ecosystems preservation
Climate change impact mitigation
Previous Editions
1st Edition in Singapore, 2016
6th Edition in Dhaka, Bangladesh, 2023
Other Locations
Sri Lanka
Vietnam
Maldives
UAE

The 7th Indian Ocean Conference, held on February 9-10, 2024, in Perth, Australia, aimed at fostering regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean and addressing various challenges such as maritime threats, climate change, and globalization impacts. Organized by the India Foundation and other international bodies, the conference gathered over 300 delegates, including foreign ministers and heads of multilateral groupings. Discussions focused on enhancing regional security, economic development, and environmental sustainability, emphasizing the Indian Ocean’s geopolitical and economic significance. The event also sought to chart a roadmap for future drivers like digital technology and green energy sources.

/ Fisheries
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) mind map
Recent News
Approved by Union Cabinet
Announced in February 2024
When
2023-24 to 2026-27
Why
Address challenges in fisheries sector
Informal nature
Lack of crop risk mitigation
Poor access to credit
Sub-optimal safety and quality
What
Total outlay
Rs. 6,000 crore
Funding model
50% public finance
Including World Bank, AFD financing
50% private sector/beneficiaries
Implementation
Across all States and Union Territories
Intended Beneficiaries
Fishers, Fish Farmers, Fish Workers
Micro and Small enterprises
Proprietary Firms, Partnership Firms, Companies
Societies, LLPs, Cooperatives, Federations
Village Level Organizations
Self Help Groups, FFPOs, Startups
Where
All States and Union Territories
Who
Government of India
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying
How
Formalization of fisheries sector
Access to institutional financing
Aquaculture insurance
Performance grants
National Fisheries Digital Platform
Significance
Boost income in fishery sector
Formalize unorganized sector
Improve value chain efficiency
Enhance fish quality and safety
Create employment opportunities
1.7 lakh new jobs
Emphasis on employing women
Challenges
Transition from subsidies to incentives
Implementing digital platform
Formalizing unorganized sector
Way Forward
Emphasize sustainable practices
Encourage women's empowerment
Expand market and business opportunities

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) is an initiative by the Indian government, aimed at transforming and formalizing the fisheries sector. Launched with an outlay of Rs. 6,000 crores, it focuses on supporting fisheries micro and small enterprises. The scheme targets a range of beneficiaries including fishers, aquaculture farmers, and related micro-enterprises. It aims to address sectoral challenges like informal operations, risk mitigation, and access to credit. A key feature is the implementation of a National Fisheries Digital Platform to streamline processes. The PM-MKSSY is significant for its potential to boost income, formalize the sector, improve value chain efficiencies, and create numerous job opportunities, particularly for women.

/ Nutrition
World Pulses Day 2024 mind map
Theme
Pulses: Nourishing Soils and People
When
February 10, 2024
Where
Global Celebration
Hybrid Event
Sheikh Zayed Centre, Italy
Why
Highlight Role of Pulses
Sustainable Agrifood Systems
Healthy Soils
Nutritional Benefits
Climate Change Mitigation
What
Organized by FAO
Keynote Addresses
Mitsuaki Shindo
Importance in Japanese Diet
Leonard Mizzi
Call for Research, Investment
Jens Busma
Soil Health for Agrifood Systems
Vijay Iyengar
Pulses and Sustainability
Technical Presentations
"It's Soilicious" Cookbook
Anneke Trux
Pulses for Soil Improvement
Cecilia Baginsky
Enhancing Nutrition
Julianne Curran
Pigeon Pea
Damaris Odeny
Significance
Environmental Sustainability
Soil Fertility Improvement
Nutritional Value
Diverse Climate Adaptability
Nitrogen-Fixing Properties
Challenges
Addressing Climate Crisis
Biodiversity Loss
Soil Erosion and Degradation
Way Forward
Increased Awareness
More Research and Investment
Private Sector Involvement
Dietary and Production Habit Changes
Affordability and Nutrition Balance

World Pulses Day 2024, celebrated under the theme “Pulses: Nourishing Soils and People”, emphasizes the importance of pulses in improving soil health and providing nutrition. This global event, organized by the FAO, includes discussions on the environmental benefits of pulses, their role in sustainable agriculture, and their nutritional value. Experts from various fields contribute their insights, highlighting the need for more research, investment, and involvement from the private sector to promote pulses. The event also addresses global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and soil degradation, proposing pulses as a part of the solution.

/ Awards & Honors
Bharat Ratna 2024 mind map
Recent News
Awarded to 5 people
Highest number in a single year
When
Announced in 2024
Why
Exceptional service
Achievements in respective fields
What
India's highest civilian award
Recognition of outstanding service
Includes posthumous awards
Where
National level
India
Who
Karpoori Thakur
Socialist leader
Former Bihar Chief Minister
Known for social justice
Implemented reservations
Lal Krishna Advani
Politician
Former Deputy Prime Minister
Shaped BJP
Advocated for Hindutva
Ram Janmabhoomi movement leader
PV Narasimha Rao
Former Prime Minister
Led economic reforms
Globalization advocate
Chaudhary Charan Singh
Former Prime Minister
Champion of Farmers
Focused on agrarian issues
MS Swaminathan
Agriculture Scientist
Father of Green Revolution in India
High-yielding wheat varieties developer
How
Selection by Prime Minister
Approval by President
Significance
National recognition
Inspires future generations
Upholds Indian values and contributions
Way Forward
Continuation of legacy
Inspiration for future awardees

The Bharat Ratna Awards in 2024 hold a special significance as it marks the highest number of recipients in a single year, with five distinguished individuals being honored. This year’s awardees include notable personalities like socialist leader Karpoori Thakur, former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani, former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan. These awards, which are India’s highest civilian honors, recognize exceptional service and achievements in various fields, contributing to the socio-political and economic fabric of the nation. The selection of these awardees is based on their outstanding contributions to society, and the honor serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.

/ Space
NASA DC-8 Flying Laboratory mind map
Overview
Highly modified Douglas DC-8 jetliner
Operates as flying science lab
Part of NASA's Airborne Science Program
Based at Armstrong Flight Research Center
Location
Palmdale, California
Mission History
Over 25 years of operation
Earth science missions
Covered six continents
Ice field studies in Antarctica
Mission Types
Sensor development
Testing prototype satellite instruments
Cost-effective instrument verification
Satellite sensor verification
Space vehicle launch/re-entry telemetry
Data retrieval
Optical tracking
Other research studies
Earth's surface
Atmosphere studies
Scientific Fields
Archaeology
Ecology
Geography
Hydrology
Meteorology
Oceanography
Volcanology
Atmospheric chemistry
Cryospheric science
Soil science
Biology
Specific Campaigns
Active Sensing of CO2 Emissions (AS-CENDS)
Winter 2016
Improved airborne lidar instruments
Atmospheric carbon dioxide measurements
Pyrocumulonimbus cloud sampling
Detailed study
Smoke distribution
Climate impact insights
Future and Alternatives
Age-related concerns
Potential replacements
Boeing 767-200ER
More floor-space
Greater payload capacity
Longer range
U.S. Navy P-8
Less fuel per mission
Comparable capabilities

The NASA DC-8 Flying Laboratory is a highly modified Douglas DC-8 jetliner that serves as a flying science laboratory under NASA’s Airborne Science Program. Operating for over 25 years from NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Palmdale, California, this aircraft has executed a variety of Earth science missions across six continents, including ice field studies in Antarctica. Its missions cover a wide range of scientific fields, such as archaeology, meteorology, and biology, focusing on activities like sensor development, satellite sensor verification, and data collection for space vehicle launches and re-entries. The DC-8 has been instrumental in campaigns like the AS-CENDS for atmospheric CO2 measurement and detailed studies of pyrocumulonimbus clouds. As it ages, there are considerations for potential replacements, with the Boeing 767-200ER and U.S. Navy P-8 being top contenders due to their capabilities and efficiencies.

/ Conservation Areas
Bannerghatta National Park mind map
Recent News
Elevated Highway Proposal
NHAI's Project
Plan Details
Six-Lane Elevated Highway
Cuts through Elephant Habitat
Involves Felling 1,288 Trees
Opposition
Activists' Concerns
Impact on Wildlife
Habitat Fragmentation
Online Petition
Over 5,000 Signatures
Urges FAC to Reconsider
NHAI's Mitigation Measures
Installation of Noise Barriers
Restricted Construction Hours
Safari Initiatives
Karnataka Forest Department's Decision
New Safari Route
Trial Basis Until May 31, 2021
Activists' Opposition
Impact on Wildlife
Increased Tourism Activity
Wildlife Conservation Efforts
Concerns over Wildlife Disturbance
Impact on Elephants, Tigers, Leopards
Alternative Solutions Suggested
Protection of Wildlife
Avoiding Habitat Disruption
When
Elevated Highway Proposal
Recent Proposal and Controversy
Safari Initiatives
Decision Made in 2020
Why
Elevated Highway
To Alleviate Traffic Snarls
Connect Bannerghatta and Jigani
Safari Initiatives
Boost Tourism
Generate Revenue
What
Elevated Highway
Total Length 8 km
Includes Eco-Sensitive Area
Safari Initiatives
Located in Outskirts of Bengaluru
Aims to Diversify Tourism Offerings
Where
Bannerghatta National Park
Located in Karnataka, India
Near Bengaluru
Who
Involved Parties
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
Karnataka Forest Department
Activists and Conservationists
Voicing Opposition
Proposing Alternatives
How
Elevated Highway Construction
Seeking Forest Advisory Committee Clearance
Proposed Soundproofing Measures
Safari Route Development
Identifying and Creating Safari Routes
Based on Trial Experiences
Significance
Elevated Highway
Improved Connectivity
Traffic Management
Safari Initiatives
Tourism Development
Economic Benefits
Challenges
Elevated Highway
Environmental Impact
Wildlife Disturbance
Safari Initiatives
Potential Increase in Poaching
Habitat Disruption
Way Forward
Elevated Highway
Alternative Planning
Protect Wildlife
Avoid Core Forest Area
Safari Initiatives
Assessing Impact on Wildlife
Considering Environmental Sustainability

Bannerghatta National Park, located in Karnataka, India, is currently at the center of a controversial proposal by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to construct a six-lane elevated highway. This project has raised significant concerns among activists and conservationists due to its potential impact on the park’s wildlife and ecosystem. The highway plan involves cutting through the elephant habitat and felling 1,288 trees. In response, an online petition has gathered over 5,000 signatures urging the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) to reconsider the project. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting the park’s wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards, and finding solutions that balance infrastructure development with environmental conservation.

Additionally, the Karnataka Forest Department’s decision to start new safari routes within the park has been met with opposition from activists. They argue that increased tourism activity could negatively affect the wildlife and natural habitats, raising concerns about the potential increase in poaching and habitat disruption.

Overall, the situation at Bannerghatta National Park illustrates the complex balance between development, conservation, and tourism, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the environmental impact of such projects.

/ Physics
Future Circular Collider (FCC) mind map
Recent News
Feasibility Study
Completed Midterm Review
Initiated in 2021
Full Report Due in 2025
CERN Council Discussions
Civil Engineering
Technical Infrastructures
Accelerators
Detector Concepts
Physics Research
Cost and Funding
Location Determined
France and Switzerland
Under Lake Geneva
91 Kilometres in Circumference
100 to 400 Metres Depth
When
Construction Start
Post-2035
Operational Phases
First Stage: Electron-Positron Collider, After 2045
Second Stage: Proton Collider, 2070s
Why
Succeed Large Hadron Collider
Explore Higher Energies
Extend Life of Infrastructure
Advance Particle Physics
What
FCC-ee (Electron-Positron Collider)
Operation Duration: 10 Years
Energy Range: 90 to 350 GeV
FCC-hh (Hadron Collider)
Operation Duration: 15 Years
Energy: 100 TeV
Technological Advancements
High-Field Magnets
Superconductors
Radio-Frequency Cavities
Cryogenic and Vacuum Systems
Beam Screen Systems
Detector Concepts
CLD and IDEA
Where
Tunnel Location
French Departments of Haute-Savoie and Ain
Swiss Canton of Geneva
Who
CERN
European Organization for Nuclear Research
European Strategy for Particle Physics
Recommending Body
International Scientific Community
Collaborators
How
Ground Assessments
Geological and Seismic Data
Fauna and Flora
Visual Inspection
Seismic Studies in 2024
Significance
Unprecedented Energy Levels
Advanced Research in Physics
Socio-Economic Benefits
Challenges
High Construction Costs
Energy Consumption
Political Hurdles
International Cooperation Challenges
Way Forward
Finalizing Feasibility Study
Member States' Decision in 2028
Continued R&D
Focus on Cost Minimization
Energy Efficiency

The Future Circular Collider (FCC) is an ambitious project undertaken by CERN to succeed the Large Hadron Collider. Its primary goal is to explore particle physics at much higher energies and intensities than its predecessor. The FCC consists of two main components: the electron-positron collider (FCC-ee) and the hadron collider (FCC-hh). The construction is planned to start post-2035, with the first stage of the collider operational after 2045 and the second stage in the 2070s. The project aims to extend the existing infrastructure’s life and deepen our understanding of the Universe. The FCC faces challenges such as high construction costs, energy consumption, and political and international cooperation hurdles.

/ Drugs/Pharmaceuticals
Fentanyl Crisis in Mexico mind map
Recent News
U.S. fentanyl crisis
Mainly manufactured abroad
Mexico major fentanyl trafficking route
Mexican government's efforts to combat
When
1990s Prescription opioid overdoses
Early 2010s Heroin wave
Late 2010s Fentanyl rise
COVID-19 Overdose spike
Why
Cheaper production
Mixed with other drugs
Lack of awareness in users
What
Fentanyl Synthetic opioid
50 times stronger than heroin
Used in medical settings
Illegally manufactured for abuse
Where
Mexico Primary transit point
U.S. Major consumption market
China Key precursor chemical producer
India Emerging precursor source
Who
Jalisco New Generation Cartel
Sinaloa Cartel
Main traffickers
U.S. and Mexican governments Combat efforts
How
International mail services
Synthesis in Mexico
Trafficking to U.S.
Significance
Medical use Pain relief
Efforts reducing U.S. overdose deaths
Challenges
High addiction potential
Overdose risks
Strain on emergency services
Way Forward
International cooperation
Border security enhancements
Public awareness campaigns

The fentanyl crisis in Mexico is a significant challenge, affecting both Mexico and the U.S. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far stronger than heroin, has become a major cause of overdose deaths. The drug is primarily produced abroad, with Mexico being a key transit point for trafficking into the U.S. Both Mexican and U.S. governments are actively trying to combat this crisis, focusing on seizing illegal shipments and reducing drug consumption. The problem is compounded by fentanyl being mixed with other drugs, often without users’ knowledge, leading to a high risk of accidental overdoses.

SkyGuardian Drones mind map
Recent News
US approves $4 billion deal
To India
31 MQ-9B Drones
Canada's acquisition
Weaponized MQ-9B
Fleet purchase
Taiwan's accelerated timeline
MQ-9B acquisition
US Air Force procurement
General Atomics MQ-9B
When
US-India deal announced January 2023
Canada, Taiwan announcements (2023 - 2024)
Why
Enhanced maritime security
Domain awareness in Indian Ocean Region
Diverse mission requirements
What
MQ-9B SkyGuardian
Description
Descendant of MQ-9A Reaper
79-foot wingspan
Enhanced payload capacity
Open architecture system
Capabilities
Intelligence gathering
Survivability
Kinetic payloads
Deals
India
31 drones
$3.99 billion
Canada
Specific number not disclosed
Advanced RPAS
Taiwan
Accelerated procurement
Where
India
Canada
Taiwan
United States
Who
General Atomics
Manufacturer of MQ-9B
US Defense Security Cooperation Agency
Facilitates sales
Countries involved
India, Canada, Taiwan, US
How
Governmental agreements
Defense procurement processes
Inter-governmental negotiations
Significance
Enhanced security capabilities
Advanced surveillance and reconnaissance
Interoperability in coalition operations
Challenges
High cost
Geopolitical implications
Technological complexities
Way Forward
Implementation of deals
Training and integration into forces
Monitoring geopolitical impact

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones, developed by General Atomics, have recently garnered significant global interest, particularly from countries like India, Canada, and Taiwan. The US has approved a major $4 billion deal to sell 31 MQ-9B drones to India, enhancing its maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. Canada and Taiwan are also procuring these drones, reflecting their utility in diverse missions, including surveillance and reconnaissance. The MQ-9B, an advanced variant of the MQ-9A Reaper, features a 79-foot wingspan, enhanced payload capacity, and an open architecture system, making it suitable for complex operational environments. These acquisitions underscore the growing importance of advanced drones in global defense and surveillance strategies, despite the challenges of high costs and technological complexities.

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