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Climate Change

World Soil Day 2024: ICAR-RCER Patna Highlights Sustainable Soil Management for a Greener Future

by Editor's Desk December 5, 2024

Team TrickyScribe: The ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna, celebrated World Soil Day on Thursday with the theme “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage.” The event aimed to increase awareness of soil and water health’s pivotal role in sustainable agri-food systems.

Farmers and Students Join Forces for Healthy Soil

The event brought together around 70 participants, including farmers, students from the IARI Patna hub, and ICAR-RCER staff. Attendees were educated on maintaining soil health through eco-friendly practices, emphasizing sustainable agriculture’s future. Farmers from Dulhin Bazar village received soil health card reports, along with recommendations and improved fertilizers like Naro Urea and Sagarika, to promote practical and sustainable farming solutions.

Experts Share Insights on Soil Health Management

Dr. Anup Das, Director of ICAR-RCER, underlined soil health as a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture and food security. He advocated regular soil testing and conservation techniques like crop rotation. Dr. A.K. Singh, Director of Research at BAU Sabour, encouraged balanced fertilizer usage for better crop yields, while Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyaya, Head of the Division of Land and Water Management, elaborated on strategies for maintaining soil and water quality.

Interactive Sessions Enhance Learning

Farmers and students engaged in vibrant discussions with experts, addressing soil and water management challenges. These exchanges bridged the gap between scientific research and practical farming needs, fostering actionable solutions for sustainable agriculture.

The program’s success was a collective effort led by Dr. Prem Kumar Sundaram, Dr. Kirti Saurabh, and other dedicated staff, whose commitment ensured the event’s impact and reach. The celebration of World Soil Day by ICAR-RCER Patna stands as a testament to the importance of soil health in shaping a sustainable agricultural future.

Total Views: 53,685

December 5, 2024

Climate Change

Pune Convening Highlights Strategies for Equitable EV Transition in Maharashtra’s Auto Sector

by Editor's Desk November 27, 2024

written by Editor's Desk

Team TrickyScribe: In its commitment to enabling a just transition to electric vehicles (EVs), WRI India, in collaboration with the State Climate Action Cell, Government of Maharashtra, organized a convening on Wednesday to deliberate on the challenges and opportunities posed by Maharashtra’s shift from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs.

During the event, WRI India announced a knowledge partnership with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) aimed at enhancing India’s green skilling ecosystem. This collaboration will support livelihoods and sustainability across various sectors. The initiative focuses on supporting automotive MSMEs in transitioning from the ICEV to the EV ecosystem by providing access to finance, infrastructure, and workforce skilling.

The convening brought together over 100 participants, including representatives from the automotive industry, government, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), industry associations, academia, and sectoral experts.

“Maharashtra is leading the country’s EV transition. However, an unplanned shift could disrupt the supply chain, which is mostly made up of MSMEs employing a large number of contractual and informal workers. This initiative by the SCAC in partnership with WRI India will bolster the sector, particularly the small businesses and workers in the automotive sector of Maharashtra, towards an EV-ready future. To complement this, the state is developing a Just Transition Policy to protect the workers from displacement, by creating social safety net and a skilling ecosystem for a future-ready workforce,” said Abhijit Ghorpade, director of the SCAC.

Dr. Archana Patankar, Vice President of Research & Impact at the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), highlighted government programs focused on skilling across various stages of the EV supply chain, including OEMs and battery manufacturing.

The event also saw the launch of a publication by WRI India and the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), Creating Holistic and Skilled Enterprises for a Smooth and Just Transition to Electric Vehicles, which builds on WRI India’s previous report, Enabling a Just Transition for MSMEs and Workers in the Indian Automotive Industry, which outlines the key challenges and interventions for ensuring that MSMEs and workers are supported and can leverage the EV transition for better jobs and business competitiveness. The new publication draws from workshops held in Pune, Nashik, and Kolhapur earlier this year. It offers strategies such as product diversification, skill development, innovation hubs, viable financing mechanisms, and policy support to enable an equitable transition.

“The shift from ICE vehicles to EV presents both tremendous opportunities and significant challenges for MSMEs and workers in Maharashtra, a state that plays a pivotal role in India’s automotive manufacturing sector, contributing 21% to the total automotive component manufacturing. Through our research, engagement and on-ground implementation, in partnership with the SCAC, as well as cluster associations and the industry, we aim to support a just, equitable and inclusive ICE to EV transition pathway for Maharashtra’s MSMEs,” Ashwini Hingne, Associate Director, Climate, Economics & Finance at WRI India, said.

WRI India has conducted several engagements with stakeholders, including MSME owners, workers’ associations and OEMs across 7-8 clusters in the state in the past few months. Additionally, cluster-level EV transition plans are being formulated for MSMEs in two automotive manufacturing clusters, where at least one solution will be implemented.

Abhay Daptardar, Assistant Director of the MSME Development and Facilitation Office, Ministry of MSME, stated that 41 MSME clusters have been identified in Maharashtra since 2006. “We are committed to supporting automobile clusters in addressing challenges during the EV transition,” he said, adding that measures will be taken to ensure financing for EV transition in the state.

Sanak Das, Assistant General Manager at the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), stated that SIDBI offers financing for charging infrastructure, battery swapping stations, and collateral-free loans for manufacturing units, along with interest subsidies for women entrepreneurs.

“India’s EV transition is in line with our ambition to be a net-zero economy by 2070. As a leader in the auto manufacturing sector, Maharashtra can leverage the transition such that it contributes to job creation and economic growth in the state. State and cluster level planning can also support auto sector OEMs and MSMEs in Maharashtra to diversify in a timely manner for higher value addition and productivity,” said Chaitanya Kanuri, Program Associate Director- Electric Mobility, Sustainable Cities & Transport at WRI India.

“WRI India conducted a significant study on the EV cluster in Tamil Nadu. Similar assessments of the needs of MSMEs undergoing transition are essential and should provide strategic recommendations for an inclusive and equitable shift,” said Prashant Girbane, Director General, Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture, adding that policies of central and state governments should align with the support required for EVs.

Arindam Lahiri, CEO of the Automotive Skill Development Council, emphasized the importance of upskilling workers to meet the growing demand for service technicians in the EV sector.

Ajay Agarwal, Chairman, MITCON Pune said the transition in EV sector is leading to the creation of new opportunities, such as entrepreneurial mindset in youths through skilling.

Total Views: 2,16,512

November 27, 2024

Climate Finance on Bihar’s Agenda: New Finance Cell & RE Policy on the Anvil

by Editor's Desk October 29, 2024

written by Editor's Desk

Prakash Pankaj | Team TrickyScribe: Bihar government announced a series of initiatives to advance its climate finance and sustainability goals, including the formation of a climate finance cell within the finance department and the anticipated launch of the state’s Renewable Energy (RE) Policy in November. These announcements were made during the Bihar Climate Finance Summit, held on Monday by the finance department in collaboration with WRI India.

Strengthening Climate Commitments: Insights from Key Leaders

Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, Samrat Choudhary, emphasized the state’s proactive approach to climate finance and green initiatives. “Despite challenges, Bihar has managed to significantly expand its green cover from 10% to approximately 16%,” he shared, noting additional climate efforts such as solar energy promotion, electric vehicle incentives, and improved waste management practices.

Deepak Kumar, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, echoed these sentiments, calling for discussions on establishing the Climate Finance Cell. Kumar highlighted landmark projects like the construction of rubber dams in the Falgu River in Gaya and the Ganga Water Lift Scheme, which serves multiple cities in Bihar. He stressed the importance of curbing groundwater extraction and introducing environmental studies in primary education.

Collaboration and Private Sector Involvement

Bihar’s Development Commissioner, Pratyaya Amrit, stressed the need for private sector engagement to supplement government initiatives. “Bihar’s green budget component has risen from 7% to 10%, demonstrating our commitment through initiatives like Jal Jeevan Hariyali and Bihar Vikas Mission,” Amrit noted.

The proposal to form the Climate Finance Cell, presented by Anand Kishore, Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, will be submitted for state approval soon. This cell is set to play a critical role in identifying green projects, securing financing, and supporting departments in obtaining climate funds.

Uday Kant Misra, Vice Chairman of the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA), showcased the BSDMA’s collaborative efforts with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to monitor floods and flood-protection infrastructure. In a pioneering step, BSDMA is also working with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) on “digital twin” technology to forecast urban flooding.

Funding Green Projects Through Policy Integration

Additional Chief Secretary of the Panchayati Raj Department, Mihir Kumar Singh, underscored the importance of linking climate policies with funding sources. “Bihar could consider introducing a cess on transactions involving natural resources to finance green initiatives,” Singh suggested.

Santosh Kumar Mall, Principal Secretary of Water Resources, highlighted the rising frequency of climate-related disasters, referring to recent heavy rainfall in Nepal as an example of the growing need for effective flood management. “Mitigation efforts must scale up to match these challenges,” he emphasized.

Proposed Budget Allocations for Green Projects

Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Secretary of Transport, advocated for a dedicated budget for green projects, proposing a fixed percentage allocation for climate initiatives. “This approach would bring clarity and consistency to green funding, potentially attracting private sector contributions,” he stated.

Pankaj Kumar Pal, Secretary of the Energy Department, confirmed the New Renewable Energy Policy is slated for release in November. “Around 33% of agriculture feeders have already been solarized, and this policy will accelerate our renewable energy targets,” he announced.

Urban Development Secretary, Abhay Kumar Singh, called for greater synergy between the finance and urban development departments to drive urban green projects. Singh highlighted projects such as waste-to-energy in Patna, sewage treatment plants along the Ganga, and rainwater harvesting as transformative urban green initiatives.

Public-Private Climate Finance Partnerships

Ashima Jain, Secretary (Expenditure), Finance Department, discussed the necessity of private sector engagement in climate finance, suggesting support in building public-private partnerships and financial capacity. “Leveraging green bonds and carbon credits can provide new avenues for private climate investments,” she pointed out.

Patna’s Development Commissioner, Mayank Warwade, reaffirmed Bihar’s commitment to reaching Net Zero by 2070. “We are already witnessing significant progress in sustainability efforts across the state,” he said.

Enhancing Green Cover and Afforestation

S Chandrasekar, Chief Conservator of Forest, emphasized the need to expand Bihar’s green cover, promoting afforestation in forest areas and agro-forestry in rural regions. “A sustained green cover increase is vital for Bihar’s climate resilience,” he stressed.

Ulka Kelkar, Executive Director of Climate, Economics, and Finance at WRI India, highlighted the relevance of this summit ahead of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. “Climate finance remains central, and workshops like these enable states to align their priorities with global climate goals,” she stated.

Bihar’s multi-faceted approach, including the Climate Finance Cell and new Renewable Energy Policy, underscores its commitment to climate resilience and sustainable growth, positioning it as a leader in India’s green transition.

Total Views: 1,33,653

October 29, 2024

Business & Commerce Climate Change

VR Training to Curb Coimbatore Auto Sector’s Emissions

by Editor's Desk October 25, 2024

written by Editor's Desk

Prakash Pankaj | Team TrickyScribe: A virtual reality (VR) training program aimed at helping Coimbatore’s automotive sector reduce emissions was launched, marking a pioneering step in sustainable manufacturing.

The first-of-its-kind training workshop that was held under joint auspices of WRI India, Facilitating MSMEs in Tamil Nadu (FaMe TN), and Coimbatore District Small Industries Association (CODISSIA), seeks to equip local auto component manufacturers with the tools and training needed for energy efficiency.

The VR-based workshop focused on enabling micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt sustainable practices by offering hands-on training in energy conservation. VR technology, which allows users to engage with real-time simulations and life-like scenarios, has proven invaluable for industries looking to integrate complex concepts into practical applications. By incorporating VR into training, workers gain a clearer understanding of technical processes and how to optimize energy use on the shop floor.

This initiative aims to tackle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption in India’s automotive sector, which is under increasing pressure to evolve due to the rapid advancement of global technologies. Through VR-based simulations, MSME workers in Coimbatore learn to identify energy-saving opportunities within their units, contributing to a substantial reduction in operational costs and environmental impact.

Boosting Efficiency for a Competitive Edge

The event saw participation from over 30 auto component manufacturers and around 100 MSME workers. Alongside WRI India, partners included Laghu Udyog Bharati, the Southern India Engineering Manufacturers’ Association (SIEMA), the Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF), and the Scientific Industrial Testing and Research Centre (Si’Tarc). The initiative is part of the larger Empower MSMEs Program, a flagship initiative introduced by WRI India and FaMe TN during the Elektrotec 2024 trade exhibition in August. The program focuses on providing low-carbon transition support for MSMEs across Tamil Nadu through capacity building, knowledge sharing, and financial guidance.

Shantha Sheela, state business facilitation officer at FaMe TN, emphasized the economic and environmental importance of energy efficiency, noting that the program also helps MSMEs access subsidies and state-supported schemes. These schemes, such as the LTPT subsidy and PEACE Scheme, are designed to help MSMEs adopt energy-efficient technologies.

K Mohan Senthil Kumar, President of Si’Tarc, highlighted that MSMEs often rely on judgment rather than measurement for energy use, leading to increased costs. By enabling workers to accurately measure energy consumption, VR training empowers them to implement energy-saving measures more effectively. Kumar explained that WRI India supports this initiative by providing audits, consultations, and training aimed at driving efficiency improvements.

Aligning with India’s Net Zero Goals

Highlighting the critical role of MSMEs in India’s economy, P. Ponram, Treasurer of CODISSIA, pointed out that this sector contributes nearly 29% to the national GDP and employs approximately 110 million people. He emphasized that sustainable energy practices are essential for MSMEs to remain competitive and contribute to India’s 2070 Net Zero goal.

The training program also includes insights into green procurement policies, increasingly adopted by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Amitosh Gautam, senior program manager at WRI India, emphasized that reducing carbon emissions in MSME operations not only makes them more sustainable but also enhances their market competitiveness.

Paving the Way for a Greener Future

As Coimbatore’s automotive sector embraces VR-based training, it is well-positioned to adopt sustainable manufacturing practices and reduce its carbon footprint. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the city’s green transition, setting a precedent for MSMEs in other regions.

Total Views: 83,518

October 25, 2024

Climate Change India

Cyclone Dana Makes Landfall Along Odisha Coast, Landfall Process to Continue for Hours: ISRO Bulletin

by Editor's Desk October 25, 2024

written by Editor's Desk

Team TrickyScribe: Cyclonic storm “Dana,” currently making its presence felt along the northern coast of Odisha, entered the final stages of landfall earlier today, according to an update from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). As of 07:30 IST on October 25, 2024, the rear sector of the storm has begun entering land, with the landfall process expected to continue for the next 1-2 hours.

Cyclone Dana, moving north-northwest at a speed of 10 km/h, was centered at 21.10° N latitude and 86.80° E longitude, positioning it approximately 30 kilometers north-northwest of Dhamara and 50 kilometers north-northwest of Habalikhati Nature Camp, located in the Bhitarkanika National Park area. Earlier at 05:30 IST, the cyclone was located further southeast, at latitude 21.00° N and longitude 86.85° E, about 20 kilometers from Dhamara.

ISRO’s latest bulletin warns that the cyclone is expected to weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm by this afternoon as it continues to move west-northwestward across northern Odisha. Nevertheless, the damage potential remains high in coastal areas as the storm’s landfall process continues, bringing intense rain, strong winds, and a possible storm surge.

Local authorities have braced for the impact of Cyclone Dana, which has already brought heavy rainfall and gusty winds to parts of Odisha. Emergency teams have been on alert, and thousands of residents in vulnerable areas have been evacuated to safer shelters. Dhamara, located near the point of landfall, is expected to bear the brunt of the storm’s fury, along with other coastal areas in north Odisha.

The Odisha government has deployed disaster management teams across the affected regions to mitigate the storm’s impact and ensure timely rescue operations. Officials are also coordinating with ISRO and meteorological departments for real-time updates on the storm’s trajectory and strength.

As Cyclone Dana moves inland, it is crucial to stay updated on the weather bulletins and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. The situation remains dynamic, and the full extent of the damage will become clearer after the landfall process is complete.

Location: Purba Medinipur, West Bengal

Total Views: 1,01,951

October 25, 2024

Climate Change Public Health & Nutrition

Indoor Plants To Counter Air Pollution

by Editor's Desk July 6, 2020

written by Editor's Desk

RAVI RAJHANS | The TrickyScribe Editorial Volunteer Network: While discussing hobbies, the usual ideas tend to include things like building models, solving puzzles, crocheting and playing cards. Whether you’re looking for something to do indoors, indoor gardening as an activity is greatly underappreciated; and creating an indoor garden is definitely overlooked.

Indoor Gardening Promotes Better Physical Well-Being

Maintaining an indoor garden takes a fair amount of effort and attention to detail; two things that allow the practitioner to feel mentally engaged in the activity. It also promotes mental stimulation and helps maintain cognitive functions longer in life. That apart, the act of gardening is synonymous with relaxing and tranquility; two things most of us could stand to have more of — regardless of age.

**Indoor Gardening Specimen | Picture Credit: Indrani Kumari & Rajib Majumder**

While the mental benefits are substantial, there are numerous physical benefits as well. It might surprise you to learn that gardening offers just the right kind of low-impact exercise that doctors recommend to seniors in order to maintain a healthy heart and promote muscle growth.

What is Indoor Gardening?

Growing plants inside a building, on soil or hydroponics, is called Indoor Gardening and the method is done typically with artificial lighting. Indoor plants should be an essential component of every interior design. Not only does greenery brighten up indoor spaces and are known to have mood-boosting qualities, it also steps up the oxygen levels inside the closed space.

The idea is essentially good for metros that lament high concentrations of pollutants coupled with low oxygen levels.
Indoor plants are popular as they are relatively easy to take care of, provide health benefits and can be used in a variety of indoor décor themes. Indoor plants are a great option for those who have little yard space for an outdoor garden or for those who live in climates with severely cold winters.

Qualities of a good indoor plant

A good root system: Incredibly important while choosing an indoor plant. It’s not practical to pull a plant out of its pot to check its roots but if it is a small plant, this can be done. Healthy roots are thick and light in color.
Foliage: The thumb rule for checking the plant’s foliage is that if you can’t see through it, the foliage is thick enough.
Check for disease: White dots, sticky residue on the leaves and a bad odour are strict no-noes.
Low Requirement for Sunlight: Plants that need little to no sunlight can be good and fit locations where light is dim. Some plants that require low light are: Philodendron, Pothos or Devil’s Ivy, Dracaena and Peace Lily. Also, they will be less likely to deal with pests. Plus, they usually do not grow too much.

How to take care of indoor plants?

• Keep potting soil moist- It’s important to make sure soil is not too wet nor too dry
• Make sure the plant pot has drainage holes in the bottom of the pot
• Place your plant near a light source, whether it’s natural or artificial
• Determine what species of plant you have so you can more accurately care for it
• Don’t prune the plants if you have no reason to. If you notice your plant getting tally and spindly, only then pruning is recommended.

Common reasons indoor plants perish

• Overwatering or underwatering
• Light Levels (either not enough light or too much light)
• Negligence

Talking to The TrickyScribe, Bengaluru-based Rajib Majumder said: “The small garden in my balcony is the result of my hobby. When I sit in my small garden with a cuppa, it gives me a sense of accomplishment. While working in the garden not only I spend my time in a better manner but also improves my health as it makes me exercise albeit unwillingly. It also takes off work-related stress. Even I am an active member in our society’s Gardening Group and I involve myself in landscaping work.”

Speaking on the ardent need of turning to indoor plants for the lack of space in present-day pigeonhole apartment culture, home maker Indrani Kumari said: “Cities from all around the world are suffocating from one major side-effect of development, pollution. With more high-rise constructions in the cities and less land space for greenery in the urban space, it is felt that small-scale gardening by units of high-rise buildings can restrict pollution to less than fatal levels.”

[Ravi Rajhans is a Bengaluru-based professional with technical and hands-on expertise in clinical operations, Pharmacovigilance and Medical writing. He is part of The TrickyScribe’s Editorial Volunteer Network]

Total Views: 1,94,110

July 6, 2020

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