Today's Brief 21-22/07/2024
- M.R Mishra
- Jul 22, 2024
- 7 min read
Youtube English: https://youtu.be/tGcFiXId07o?feature=shared
Youtube Hindi:
Rogue Waves: A new artificial intelligence model developed by mechanical engineers Thomas Breunung and Balakumar Balachandran from the University of Maryland can predict rogue waves—massive water ridges that can surprise ships and beachgoers—up to five minutes in advance, ScienceNews reported yesterday.
Rogue waves are freakishly large ridges of water known for rising out of the blue to ambush hapless ships and beachgoers. But a new artificial intelligence model can predict most of these surprising swells up to five minutes in advance, mechanical engineers Thomas Breunung and Balakumar Balachandran, of the University of Maryland in College Park, report July 18 in Scientific Reports.
The AI was trained using 16 million data points from 172 ocean buoys, successfully forecasting 75% of rogue wave arrivals one minute ahead and about 70% at five minutes, the source mentioned.
Remarkably, the model performed well even at locations without prior training data. This breakthrough tool could enhance maritime safety, as rogue waves have previously resulted in 386 fatalities and the sinking of 24 ships between 2011 and 2018.
The researchers believe that improved AI architectures and more data could further increase prediction accuracy.
"Freak" waves,
also known as rogue waves or extreme waves, are unusually large and unexpected ocean waves that can be extremely dangerous to ships and offshore structures. Here are some key points about them:
Size and Characteristics: Freak waves are typically more than twice the height of surrounding waves. They appear suddenly and can last only a short time before dissipating.Causes: They can be caused by various factors, including:
Constructive interference, where multiple smaller waves combine to form a larger wave.
Changes in ocean currents that can amplify wave heights.
Wind conditions that can increase wave energy.
Occurrence: They can happen in any open sea, but they are more commonly reported in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the North Atlantic and off the coast of South Africa.
Impact on Shipping: Freak waves are hazardous for ships and have been responsible for many maritime accidents. They can cause severe damage to vessels and, in some cases, lead to sinking.
Research and Detection: Advances in satellite technology and wave modeling have improved the detection and study of freak waves. However, predicting their occurrence remains challenging.
Historical Incidents: Notable incidents involving freak waves include the sinking of the MS München in 1978 and the damage to the Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1995.
Ocean Buoys:
Ocean Buoys: Ocean buoys, both moored and drifting, serve as crucial data collectors in the vast expanse of the ocean.
The information they gather is vital for a wide range of reasons, including:
Improved weather forecasting: Buoys collect data on wind speed, air pressure, and wave height, which are essential ingredients for accurate weather predictions, especially for maritime environments. This helps keep people safe at sea and on the coast.
Safer maritime operations: With real-time data on currents, waves, and visibility, buoys help ships navigate safely, avoid hazardous conditions, and optimize routes. This translates to fewer accidents and smoother sailing.
Marine research and climate studies: Buoys provide continuous measurements of sea surface temperature, salinity, and other parameters. This data is critical for understanding ocean health, monitoring climate change, and tracking fish populations.
Early warning systems: Certain buoys are specifically designed to detect tsunamis and other potential threats. Their real-time data allows for faster and more effective warnings to be issued, saving lives and property.
Search and rescue: Buoy data can be used to locate distressed vessels and predict their drift patterns, aiding search and rescue efforts at sea.
2.BRICS: BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Significance of BRICS:
Economic Benefits:
Increased Trade and Investment: BRICS members aim to facilitate trade and investment among themselves. This can open doors to new markets and attract foreign direct investment for crucial sectors like infrastructure and technology
Access to Funding: The BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) provides loans for infrastructure projects and sustainable development initiatives in member countries. This can be a valuable source of funding, especially for developing economies.
Political Benefits:
Global Influence: BRICS represents a significant portion of the world's population and economic output. Membership allows a country to have a stronger voice on the global stage and potentially influence international decision-making.
Strategic Partnerships: BRICS fosters collaboration on various issues like climate change, global governance, and counter-terrorism. This can lead to strategic partnerships and knowledge sharing among members.
Other Advantages:
Knowledge Sharing: BRICS promotes cooperation in areas like science, technology, and innovation. This can lead to knowledge transfer and collaborative research projects.
Diversification: Membership in BRICS can help a country lessen its economic dependence on traditional partners and diversify its trade relationships.
3.Basmati rice: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) plays a significant role in the world of Basmati rice.
Developing Basmati Varieties: IARI is a leading force in developing new Basmati rice varieties. They've released numerous high-yielding and disease-resistant Basmati strains, such as Pusa Basmati 1121, 1460, 1509, and many more. These varieties are known for their extra-long slender grains, strong aroma, and excellent cooking characteristics.
Improving Basmati Production: IARI conducts research on improving Basmati cultivation practices. This includes developing methods for weed control, optimizing water usage, and minimizing disease outbreaks. Their work helps farmers produce high-quality Basmati rice more efficiently.
Contributing to Basmati Exports: The Basmati varieties developed by IARI account for a whopping 95% of India's total Basmati rice exports! This translates to a significant source of foreign exchange for the country.
Seed Availability: IARI plays a crucial role in ensuring the availability of quality Basmati seeds for farmers. They partner with other organizations to distribute these seeds and promote the cultivation of improved Basmati varieties.
IARI:
The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) is a premier national institute for agricultural research, education, and extension in India.
Establishment: Founded in 1905, IARI was initially called the Imperial Agricultural Research Institute. It was renamed after India's independence.
Location: The main campus of IARI is located in Pusa, New Delhi. Hence, it is also commonly known as the Pusa Institute.
Affiliation: IARI is affiliated with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), which is an autonomous body responsible for coordinating agricultural education and research in India.
Research: IARI conducts research on various aspects of agriculture, including crop improvement, soil science, plant pathology, entomology, agricultural engineering, and horticulture. Its research efforts aim to develop sustainable agricultural practices and improve crop yields.
Education: The institute offers postgraduate and doctoral programs in various agricultural sciences. It is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and research-oriented education.
Achievements: Some of the notable achievements of IARI include the development of high-yielding crop varieties, particularly in wheat and rice, which played a significant role in India's Green Revolution during the 1960s and 1970s. These efforts significantly increased food production and ensured food security in the country.
Collaborations: IARI collaborates with various national and international organizations, including other research institutions, universities, and agricultural bodies, to enhance its research and outreach capabilities.
Facilities: The institute is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, research farms, libraries, and other infrastructure to support its research and educational activities.
IARI continues to be at the forefront of agricultural innovation in India, contributing to the advancement of agricultural science and the overall development of the agricultural sector in the country.
4.Asadh Purnima: also known as Guru Purnima, is a significant festival observed by Hindus and Buddhists on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Ashadha month in the Hindu calendar.
For Hindus:
Guru Purnima: This day is venerated as Guru Purnima, a day to honor spiritual teachers and gurus. Hindus express their gratitude to their teachers for their guidance and knowledge Guru Purnima celebrations
Worship of Deities: Devotees perform puja (worship) rituals on Asadh Purnima, particularly worshipping Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Shiva, and the Moon God. It is believed that worshipping these deities brings auspiciousness, removes negativity, and fulfills wishes.
Fasting: Observing a fast on Asadh Purnima is considered auspicious. Devotees believe it purifies the mind and body and brings spiritual growth.
For Buddhists:
Dhamma Chakra Day: Buddhists celebrate Asadh Purnima as Dhamma Chakra Day, commemorating the first sermon delivered by Gautama Buddha after attaining enlightenment. This sermon, delivered at Sarnath,
India, marked the establishment of the Sangha, the Buddhist monastic community.
5. Panama and Donkey Route: Panama's government expects to start deportation flights for migrants who crossed the country's dangerous Darien jungle in two to three months, the country's chief of migration Roger Mojica said Friday.
The flights will be paid by the United States under a recent agreement that the two countries closed earlier this month.
"We are establishing the needs, equipment and requirements that Panama has to face in order to start the program, and we are in conversations with the United States," Mojica said during a conference call. "We estimate we should be able to start the process in two to three months."
The Geography
Panama: A country located in Central America, bordering Costa Rica to the north and Colombia to the south. It's famous for the Panama Canal, a major maritime route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Darien Gap: A roadless stretch of dense rainforest and swamp on the border between Panama and Colombia. It disrupts the Pan-American Highway, the road network connecting North and South America. The Darien Gap is known for its challenging terrain, making it a natural barrier and a dangerous route for migrants.
Here's a closer look at this interesting connection:
The Darien Gap as a Break in the Pan-American Highway:
The Pan-American Highway stretches for over 30,000 kilometers, aiming to connect most of the Americas by land. However, the Darien Gap, spanning roughly 106 kilometers, creates a significant interruption. Building a road through this region has been attempted in the past but hindered by environmental concerns, logistical complexities, and high costs.
The Darien Gap as a Migration Route:
Despite its dangers, the Darien Gap has become a route for migrants seeking to reach North America. The dense rainforest, treacherous rivers, and lack of infrastructure make the journey perilous.
Challenges of Crossing the Darien Gap:
Migrants attempting to cross the Darien Gap face a multitude of challenges, including:
Dense Rainforest: The thick vegetation and lack of established trails make navigation difficult.
Wild Animals: The rainforest is home to various wild animals, some of which can be dangerous.
Flash Floods: The region experiences frequent heavy rainfall, which can lead to flash floods.
Limited Supplies: Access to food, water, and medical care is scarce along the route.
Criminal Activity: The Darien Gap has a reputation for criminal activity, including robbery and violence.
Panama and the Darien Gap:
The Panamanian government faces a complex situation regarding the Darien Gap. On the one hand, they are concerned about the environmental impact of building a road through the region. On the other hand, they grapple with the humanitarian crisis of migrants attempting the dangerous trek.
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