Agrivoltaic Farming
Practical implementation of agrivoltaic systems showcased in 7th session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
- Practice of growing crops underneath solar panels.
- Uses land for both agriculture and solar photovoltaic energy generation.
- Also referred to as agrisolar, dual use solar, low impact solar.
VINBAX 2024
5th edition of VINBAX has started at Ambala (Haryana).
- Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise
- Witnessed Bi-Service level participation for first time by personnel of Army and Air Force from both countries.
CARICOM (Caribbean Community)
Recently, 2nd meeting of the India-CARICOM Joint Commission was held virtually.
- Regional organization to promote economic integration and cooperation in the Caribbean Region.
- Established in – 1973.
- Secretariat at – Georgetown, Guyana.
- Enjoys observer status in UNGA since 1991.
Markhor
Efforts are urgently needed to protect the habitat of the endangered Markhor
- World’s largest wild goat
- UN General Assembly proclaimed 24 May the International Day of the Markhor, and it is celebrated for the first time in 2024.
- Distinctive features – Spiral horns, thick fur in shades of brown and gray
- Habitat – Mountainous regions in Pakistan, Afghanistan, India (J&K), and Tajikistan.
- Conservation status – Near Threatened under IUCN Red List
Allulose
South Korea has emerged as a key market for allulose
- A new sugar substitute
- Natural source – Found naturally in figs, kiwis, and other fruits.
- Almost 0 calories, making it ideal for low-calorie diets.
- Regulatory status – Approved in the U.S. and South Korea, but still classified as a “novel food” in the EU and Canada, with limited global regulatory approval.
- Challenges – High production costs and need for further research on long-term safety.