Home Tags Posts tagged with "India"
Tag:

India

Space Exploration

India and Other Countries Gear Up for Exciting Space Missions: Mars, Moon, and Beyond

by Peter
written by Peter

India and Other Countries’ Upcoming Space Missions

Mars Missions

India is not the only country with ambitious plans for Mars exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to send a satellite to the Red Planet in November 2013. The satellite will study Mars’ climate and geology from orbit.

NASA is also planning another Mars mission, called the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) mission. MAVEN will study how Mars’ atmosphere interacts with the Sun. The mission is set to launch in 2013.

Moon Missions

The European Space Agency (ESA) is planning to put an unmanned lander on the Moon in 2018. The lander will study the lunar south pole, which is a relatively unexplored region.

China is also planning to land a probe on the Moon in the second half of 2013. China has had a successful string of recent space missions, including their own Earth-orbiting space lab and the Chang’e 1 lunar orbiter.

Other Space Missions

Iran is planning to launch a rhesus monkey into space in the next month. This will be Iran’s first space mission involving a living creature.

NASA’s Curiosity Rover Landing

All eyes are on NASA’s Curiosity rover, which is scheduled to land on Mars in just a few days. The rover will study the Martian surface and search for signs of past or present life.

How to Catch the Curiosity Rover Landing

If you’re interested in watching the Curiosity rover landing, there are a few ways to do so. You can watch it live on NASA TV, or you can follow along on social media. NASA will be providing updates on Twitter and Facebook throughout the landing process.

More from Smithsonian.com:

  • Going to the Moon… Or Not
  • Hello Mars – This is the Earth!
  • A Bumpy Road to Mars

Additional Details on Upcoming Space Missions

  • India’s Mars mission: The Indian satellite is designed to study Mars’ climate and geology from orbit. It will launch in November 2013 and travel for 300 days before reaching Mars.
  • China’s Moon mission: China’s probe is designed to land on the Moon’s surface and collect samples of lunar soil. It is scheduled to launch in the second half of 2013.
  • ESA’s Moon mission: ESA’s lander is designed to study the lunar south pole. It will launch in 2018 and land on the Moon’s surface.
  • Iran’s space mission: Iran’s space mission will involve launching a rhesus monkey into space. The monkey will be equipped with sensors to monitor its vital signs.
  • NASA’s MAVEN mission: NASA’s MAVEN mission will study how Mars’ atmosphere interacts with the Sun. It will launch in 2013 and orbit Mars for one Martian year (about two Earth years).
0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized

Ross Island: India’s Abandoned Island of Colonial Oppression and Disaster

by Peter
written by Peter

India’s Abandoned Island of Colonial Horror: Ross Island

A Tale of Oppression and Disaster

The Penal Colony

In the wake of the Indian Mutiny of 1857, British colonists established a penal colony on the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to quell rebellion. Ross Island, the smallest of the archipelago’s 576 islands, became the administrative headquarters due to its strategic location.

Indian convicts and political prisoners were forced to clear the island’s dense forests and construct an opulent colonial complex, including a commissioner’s bungalow, a Presbyterian church, and manicured gardens. Despite the luxurious surroundings, life on Ross Island was anything but comfortable.

Inmates were overworked, disease-ridden, and emaciated. Malaria, cholera, and other tropical diseases were rampant. The British even conducted illicit medical trials on convicts, force-feeding them experimental malaria drugs with severe side effects.

The Cellular Jail and Indian Independence

As the Indian struggle for independence intensified, the need for a proper prison led to the construction of the Cellular Jail at nearby Port Blair. This notorious prison witnessed unspeakable atrocities against Indian freedom fighters and political prisoners.

The Cellular Jail’s closure in 1937 marked a turning point in the history of the Andamans. However, the tumultuous past of the islands continued.

Earthquake and Japanese Occupation

In 1941, a magnitude 8.1 earthquake struck the islands, causing widespread damage and over 3,000 deaths. One year later, Japanese forces occupied the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Unable to defend the islands, the British fled. Over the course of three years of Japanese occupation, Ross Island was pillaged for raw materials and vandalized to build bunkers.

Abandonment and Tourism

After the Allied forces recaptured the islands in 1945, the penal colony was permanently disbanded. Today, Ross Island is administered by the Indian government and exists as a tourist attraction.

Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings, now enveloped in gnarly trees. The island’s eerie atmosphere and forgotten history evoke the horrors of colonial oppression.

A Forgotten Legacy

Ross Island, once touted as the “Paris of the East,” stands as a poignant reminder of the brutality of British imperialism and the resilience of the Indian people.

Despite its idyllic surroundings, the island’s history is one of suffering and oppression. Yet, amidst the decay and desolation, Ross Island offers a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of Indian history and the enduring legacy of colonialism.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Zoology

Snake Bite Prevention in India: The Big Four Mapping Project

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Snake Bite Prevention in India: The Big Four Mapping Project

Understanding the Problem

India is home to over 270 snake species, of which 60 are venomous. Encounters with snakes are frequent in rural areas, where most of India’s population resides. Snakebites claim 46,000 lives annually in India, compared to just five in the United States.

The Big Four Mapping Project

In the absence of a government snakebite mitigation initiative, the Big Four Mapping Project was launched to map out human-snake conflicts in India. The project focuses on the four most common venomous snake species: spectacled cobra, saw-scaled viper, Russell’s viper, and common krait. These four species are responsible for the majority of snakebite-related deaths in India.

How It Works

The project relies on an Android app and a network of over 1,200 volunteer snake rescuers. When a person encounters a snake, they can contact a rescuer from the IndianSnakes.org website. The rescuer takes a picture of the snake using the Big4 Mapper app, which also records the GPS location. The rescuer then bags the snake and releases it into the wild, logging important details such as the species and condition of the house where it was found.

Findings

Since its inception in early 2017, the Big4 Mapper app has recorded over 5,000 snake-human conflicts. This data has revealed important insights into snake distribution and behavior in India. For example, 70% of encounters in houses involve cobras, and kraits tend to be more active after dark.

Snake Rescuers

Volunteer snake rescuers play a crucial role in the Big4 Mapping Project. They rescue snakes, educate the public, and provide first aid instructions in case of snakebites. Subhadra Cherukuri, a snake rescuer in Bangalore, emphasizes the importance of engaging with people during snake rescues to dispel myths and prevent snake killings.

Challenges

The Big4 Mapping Project faces challenges in data collection, particularly in the East Coast of India where there are fewer snake rescuers. To address this, the project is actively recruiting more volunteers.

Future Plans

The next version of the Big4 Mapper app will include features such as GPS-based rescuer locator, messaging, and a database of hospitals with antivenom stocks. The app will also provide educational information on snake identification and safety measures in local languages.

Conclusion

The Big Four Mapping Project is a significant effort to address the problem of snakebites in India. By mapping out snake-human conflicts and educating the public, the project aims to reduce snakebite fatalities and promote snake conservation.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Culture and Tradition

Cow Dung Patties: India’s Newest Internet Sensation and a Nostalgic Throwback

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

India’s Newest Internet Sensation: Cow Dung Patties

Nostalgia in a Pile of Cow Poo

For those who have recently migrated to India’s bustling megacities, nothing evokes nostalgia quite like the pungent aroma of cow dung. Cow dung patties, also known as cow cakes, hold a special place in the memories of many Indians. In rural areas, these fragrant cakes have been traditionally used for ritual fires and to provide warmth during festivals like Diwali and Lohri.

The Power of Smell

Research has shown that aromas have a powerful ability to trigger memories. For some Indians, the distinct smell of cow dung instantly transports them back to their childhood. This nostalgia has fueled the recent surge in popularity of cow dung patties on websites like Amazon.

Urban Demand for Rural Fuel

As more and more people move from rural areas to urban centers, the demand for cow dung in cities has increased. Urban dwellers who lack access to a ready supply of cow dung are now turning to online retailers to satisfy their nostalgic cravings.

India’s Bovine Bounty

India boasts a massive bovine population, with nearly 300 million cows as of 2012. This vast livestock population produces a significant amount of cow dung, which is traditionally used as both fertilizer and fuel. Chris Copp of Full Stop India writes that dung is “a commodity so intertwined with daily survival that it is nearly impossible to think of life without it.”

Cow Dung as a Renewable Resource

India is thought to consume approximately 400 million tons of cow dung for cooking fuel alone each year. Additionally, around 30% of rural fuel production relies on animal waste. Cow dung’s versatility and abundance make it a valuable renewable resource, particularly in rural areas.

The Allure of Nostalgia

The recent surge in demand for cow dung patties in urban areas can be attributed to the power of nostalgia. The peaty smell of burning cow dung evokes fond memories of childhood and rural life for many Indians.

Beyond the Norm: Unusual Scents

While the idea of embracing the smell of cow dung may seem peculiar to some, it is important to remember that olfactory preferences are subjective. Just as some people find pleasure in the scent of perfume that resembles a cat’s forehead or a cell phone that transmits smells, others find solace in the nostalgic aroma of cow dung.

Cultural Significance and Ritualistic Use

Cow dung has deep cultural significance in India. It is considered a purifying agent and is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. During Hindu festivals like Diwali and Lohri, people burn cow dung cakes for warmth and to create a sacred atmosphere.

Environmental Considerations

While cow dung is a valuable resource, it is important to use it sustainably. Excessive burning of cow dung can contribute to air pollution, especially in urban areas. Therefore, it is crucial to strike a balance between preserving tradition and protecting the environment.

Conclusion

The recent popularity of cow dung patties on the internet highlights the power of nostalgia and the multifaceted nature of resources like cow dung. As India continues to urbanize, it is likely that the demand for cow dung in cities will continue to grow. However, it is important to approach this trend with an awareness of its cultural significance and environmental implications.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Agriculture and Food

Solar Pumps: Empowering Indian Farmers with Sustainable Irrigation

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Solar Pumps: Empowering Indian Farmers with Sustainable Irrigation

Introduction

India’s agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including water scarcity, unreliable power supply, and high diesel costs. Solar pumps offer a promising solution to these problems, providing farmers with a clean, affordable, and reliable means of irrigating their crops.

Benefits of Solar Pumps

  • Reduced Water Scarcity: Solar pumps allow farmers to access groundwater without depleting aquifers, which is a major concern in many parts of India.
  • Improved Power Supply: Solar pumps eliminate the need for unreliable grid electricity or expensive diesel generators, ensuring uninterrupted irrigation.
  • Lower Costs: While solar pumps have a higher upfront cost than diesel pumps, they have significantly lower operating costs over the long term, as they do not require fuel or maintenance.
  • Increased Productivity: By providing farmers with a consistent and reliable water supply, solar pumps enable them to grow more crops and increase their income.
  • Reduced Carbon Emissions: Solar pumps generate clean energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to India’s climate goals.

Government Support

The Indian government recognizes the potential of solar pumps and is providing significant subsidies to farmers who install them. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy offers a 30% subsidy on the cost of solar pumpsets, while ten states have added their own subsidies.

Market Growth

The prospect of government support, combined with the vast potential market, has attracted global solar and pump manufacturers to India. Companies such as SunEdison, Lorentz, and Grundfos are competing for a share of the Indian market.

Success Stories

Ravi Kant, a farmer in Bihar, has experienced firsthand the benefits of solar pumps. He installed a 7.5-horsepower solar pump on his rice and wheat farm and now enjoys a reliable water supply, even on cloudy days. As a result, he has increased his annual income by 20,000 rupees and has been able to grow a third crop.

Environmental Impact

Solar pumps play a crucial role in reducing India’s carbon footprint. By replacing diesel generators, they eliminate the emission of harmful pollutants. Additionally, by reducing water scarcity, solar pumps help to preserve India’s ecosystems.

Long-Term Benefits

Solar panels have a lifespan of two decades or more, providing farmers with long-term benefits. The blue-tinted solar panels will empower future generations to irrigate their crops with sunlight, ensuring food security and sustainability for years to come.

Conclusion

Solar pumps are a transformative technology for Indian farmers. They provide a sustainable solution to water scarcity, improve power supply, reduce costs, increase productivity, and mitigate carbon emissions. With government support and the entry of global manufacturers, the Indian market for solar pumps is poised for significant growth, bringing numerous benefits to farmers and the nation as a whole.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Zoology

Cheetah Reintroduction in India: A Journey of Hope and Conservation

by Peter
written by Peter

Cheetah Reintroduction in India: A Journey of Hope and Conservation

Historical Extinction and Reintroduction Efforts

Cheetahs, the world’s fastest land animals, once roamed freely throughout India. However, they were declared extinct in the country in 1952, primarily due to habitat loss and hunting. In a historic move, India embarked on an ambitious reintroduction plan in 2022, welcoming eight cheetahs from Namibia to Kuno National Park.

Arrival and Quarantine

On September 17, 2022, the eight cheetahs, comprising five females and three males, arrived at Kuno National Park. They underwent a month-long quarantine period under the watchful eyes of veterinarians and wildlife officials. During this time, they were vaccinated, fitted with satellite collars for tracking, and monitored closely to ensure their health and well-being.

Habitat and Prey Base Enhancements

Kuno National Park, chosen as the release site for the cheetahs, underwent extensive preparations prior to their arrival. The park’s prey base was enhanced through the introduction of species such as blackbuck, chital, and nilgai. The cheetahs’ natural hunting instincts and ability to thrive in open grasslands make Kuno an ideal habitat for their reintroduction.

Expansion Plans and Long-Term Goals

India’s cheetah reintroduction plan is a multi-phase project. Over the next five years, 50 cheetahs are expected to be released into various national parks across the country. Proposed locations include the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Shahgarh Bulge, and the Mukundara Tiger Reserve. The goal is not only to re-establish cheetah populations in India but also to enhance biodiversity and promote the health of Indian ecosystems.

Conservation Concerns and Challenges

While the cheetah reintroduction project has garnered widespread support, some concerns have been raised. Some biologists argue that the initiative diverts attention and resources from other pressing conservation needs, such as relocating Asiatic lions to help save them from extinction. Others worry about potential cheetah-human conflict, as well as the impact on prey populations and the overall balance of the ecosystem.

Monitoring and Adaptive Management

The cheetah reintroduction project is being closely monitored by wildlife experts and scientists. Satellite collars allow for real-time tracking of the cheetahs’ movements, providing valuable data on their habitat selection, hunting patterns, and interactions with other animals. The project team is also working closely with local communities to mitigate potential conflicts and promote coexistence between humans and cheetahs.

Ecological and Cultural Significance

The return of cheetahs to India holds immense ecological and cultural significance. Cheetahs play a crucial role as top predators, helping to control herbivore populations and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Their reintroduction not only enriches India’s biodiversity but also serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to wildlife conservation and ecological restoration.

Conclusion

The cheetah reintroduction project in India is a complex and ambitious undertaking that requires careful planning, collaboration, and ongoing monitoring. While there are challenges and concerns to address, the potential benefits to biodiversity, ecosystems, and the cultural heritage of India make this initiative a significant and hopeful step towards the conservation and restoration of one of the world’s most iconic species.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Culture and Traditions

India’s Dying Well of Death: A Daredevil Spectacle on the Decline

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

India’s Dying Well of Death: A Daredevil Spectacle on the Decline

The Thrill of the Well of Death

For centuries, daredevil stuntmen have captivated audiences with their perilous rides along the near-vertical walls of India’s “Well of Death.” This heart-pounding spectacle, rooted in American motordome racing, involves drivers in cars or on motorcycles zipping precariously around a circular pit.

Origins and Evolution

The Well of Death traces its origins to the American motordromes that dominated fairs in the early 20th century. These slanted tracks featured motorcycle racing, and their popularity spread overseas, becoming wildly popular in Britain. Around 1915, the motordrome evolved into the silodrome, a grain silo-shaped circle where riders would skirt around the edge, held in place by centrifugal force.

Eventually, the silodrome made its way to India, where it was readily adopted by carnival performers. Initially, they used manual bicycles, but these were later replaced by motorcycles and cars. Today, performers in India up the danger by grabbing money from spectators, holding hands with fellow riders, or switching between vehicles while driving around the wall.

Safety Concerns

While the Well of Death is an adrenaline-pumping spectacle, it is also inherently dangerous. In India, safety precautions are often not observed. Drivers typically don’t wear helmets, and cars and motorcycles are often in need of repairs. The wooden planks that construct the wells can be missing pieces, creating a precarious surface for vehicles reaching speeds of 40 miles per hour.

Decline in Popularity

In recent years, interest in the Well of Death has declined as a new generation turns to electronic diversions. Television and films, with their spectacular stunts and special effects, have replaced the Well of Death as the primary source of entertainment for many. Popular Indian films in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu feature amazing stunts that appeal to a wider audience.

Preserving a Dying Tradition

Despite the decline in popularity, the Well of Death remains a cultural tradition in India. Performers tend to be poor, but the audience comes from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The cheap tickets make it accessible to all who may have wandered into the park.

Legacy and Impact

The Well of Death has left a lasting legacy on popular culture. In 2010, the British rock group Django Django featured Well of Death riders from Allahabad in the music video for their song “WOR.” The spectacle’s daring stunts and unique history continue to fascinate and inspire audiences worldwide.

Ongoing Challenges

While the Well of Death faces challenges in maintaining its popularity, it also grapples with ongoing safety concerns. Ensuring the well-being of performers and spectators remains a paramount priority. Additionally, finding ways to adapt the spectacle to modern audiences while preserving its cultural heritage is crucial for its survival.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail