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All Indian <keyword id="19926225" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="salt" source="keywords">salt</keyword> and <keyword id="20109149" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sugar" source="keywords">sugar</keyword> brands, whether big or small, packaged or unpackaged, contain <keyword id="19970180" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="microplastics" source="keywords">microplastics</keyword>, according to a study published on Tuesday. The study, titled "Microplastics in Salt and Sugar" and conducted by the <keyword id="22774411" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmental-research-organisation" source="keywords">environmental research organisation</keyword> <keyword id="21593811" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Toxics-Link" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Toxics Link" meta.hostid="281" meta.entityid="Toxics Link">Toxics Link</keyword>, tested 10 types of salt -- including table salt, rock salt, <keyword id="158885" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sea-salt" source="Orion">sea salt</keyword> and local raw salt -- and five types of sugar purchased from both online and local markets. The study revealed the presence of microplastics in all salt and sugar samples, in various forms, including fibre, pellets, films and fragments. The size of these microplastics ranged from 0.1 mm to 5 mm. The highest levels of microplastics were found in <keyword id="630077" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="iodised-salt" source="Orion">iodised salt</keyword>, in the form of multi-coloured thin fibre and films. Toxics Link founder-director Ravi Agarwal said, "The objective of our study was to contribute to the existing scientific database on microplastics, so that the global plastic treaty can address this issue in a concrete and focused manner." "We also aim to trigger policy action and attract researchers' attention to potential technological interventions that could reduce exposure risks to microplastics." Toxics Link associate director Satish Sinha added, "Our study's finding of substantial amounts of microplastics in all salt and sugar samples is concerning and calls for urgent, comprehensive research into the long-term health impacts of microplastics on human health." The concentration of microplastics in the salt samples ranged from 6.71 to 89.15 pieces per kilogramme of dry weight, the report said. Iodised salt had the highest concentration of microplastics (89.15 pieces per kilogramme) while organic rock salt had the lowest (6.70 pieces per kilogramme), according to the study. In sugar samples, the concentration of microplastics ranged from 11.85 to 68.25 pieces per kilogramme, with the highest concentration found in non-organic sugar. Microplastics are a growing global concern because they can harm both health and the environment. These tiny plastic particles can enter the human body through food, water and air. Recent research has found microplastics in human organs such as the lungs, heart, and even in breast milk and unborn babies. Previous studies found that the average Indian consumes 10.98 grams of salt and around 10 spoons of sugar every day -- much higher than the <keyword id="19896311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-health-organization" source="keywords">World Health Organization</keyword>'s recommended limits.

All Indian salt and sugar brands have microplastics, notes a recent study

<ul><li>The <keyword id="8194701" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="refurbished-smartphone" source="Orion">refurbished smartphone</keyword> market has recorded rapid growth in India.</li><li>While the unorganised sellers dominate the market, the organised sellers are also growing.</li><li>Affordability and shorter upgrade cycles are among the factors fueling the refurbished smartphone market.</li></ul> India's refurbished smartphone market is experiencing significant growth, outpacing the new smartphone sector. This reflects a maturing market which is increasingly catering to consumers looking for affordable yet reliable options. According to a report by Counterpoint Research, unorganised sellers dominate the refurbished smartphone market, accounting for 77% of transactions. The Indian refurbished smartphone sector has traditionally been dominated by unorganised players, offering devices at a fraction of the cost of the new models. However, the introduction of value-added services like warranties, quality assurance, and after-sales support by emerging e-commerce platforms is beginning to formalise this market, enhancing consumer trust and driving further growth. <h2>What’s fueling the refurbished smartphone market</h2><h3>Affordability</h3><keyword id="2698558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="refurbished-smartphones" source="Orion">Refurbished smartphones</keyword> offer consumers access to higher-end hardware at lower costs, making premium technology more accessible to a broader audience. This aspect is particularly appealing in a price-sensitive market like India. <h3>Shorter upgrade cycles</h3>With technology evolving rapidly, many users prefer to upgrade their phones more frequently. Refurbished devices provide an avenue for this without the high cost associated with new purchases. <h3>Environmental impact</h3>There's a growing awareness of the environmental benefits of using refurbished products, which reduces electronic waste and the demand for new manufacturing, which is resource-intensive. <h3>Consumer confidence</h3>The entry of organised players who provide guarantees and quality checks on refurbished devices has significantly boosted consumer confidence. These services add a layer of reliability to what was once a market fraught with uncertainty about product condition and longevity. Despite the growth in the unorganised sector, there's a noticeable trend towards formalisation. E-commerce platforms specialising in refurbished goods are expanding, providing consumers with the convenience of online shopping backed by credible service commitments. The report also notes that this growth is not just contained within India. Globally, the refurbished smartphone market is on an upward trajectory, with similar trends observed in markets like Latin America, suggesting a broader international shift towards sustainable consumption in electronics. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/moto-g35-5g-with-120hz-5000mah-battery-launched-at-9999/articleshow/116172283.cms">Moto G35 5G with 120Hz display, 5,000mAh battery launched at ₹9,999</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/redmi-note-14-pro-and-redmi-note-14-pro-launched-in-india-starting-at-24999/articleshow/116134415.cms">Redmi Note 14 Pro and Redmi Note 14 Pro+ launched in India starting at ₹24,999</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/vivo-x200-and-x200-pro-camera-centric-to-launch-in-india-on-december-12/articleshow/115930004.cms">Vivo X200 and X200 Pro camera-centric smartphones to launch in India on December 12</a>

India's refurbished smartphone market witnesses accelerated growth

The <keyword id="116095" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="indian-space-research-organisation" source="Orion">Indian Space Research Organisation</keyword> (ISRO) is gearing up for an "extremely challenging" experiment of controlled re-entry of a decommissioned orbiting satellite on Tuesday. The low <keyword id="6359982" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="earth" source="Orion">Earth</keyword> satellite, Megha-Tropiques-1 (MT1), was launched on October 12, 2011, as a joint satellite venture of ISRO and the French space agency, CNES for tropical weather and climate studies. An uninhabited area in the Pacific Ocean between 5°S to 14°S latitude and 119°W to 100°W longitude was identified as the targeted re-entry zone for MT1, weighing about 1000 kg. About 125 kg on-board fuel remained unutilised at its end-of-mission that could pose risks for accidental break-up, an ISRO statement noted. This left-over fuel was estimated to be sufficient to achieve a fully controlled atmospheric re-entry to impact the uninhabited location in the Pacific Ocean. Controlled re-entries involve deorbiting to very low altitudes to ensure impact occurs within a targeted safe zone. Usually, large satellites/rocket bodies, which are likely to survive aero-thermal fragmentation upon re-entry, are made to undergo controlled re-entry to limit ground casualty risk. However, all such satellites are specifically designed to undergo controlled re-entry at <keyword id="336838" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="eol" source="Orion">EOL</keyword>. "MT1 was not designed for EOL operations through controlled re-entry which made the entire exercise extremely challenging", ISRO said. Furthermore, the on-board constraints of the aged satellite, where several systems had lost redundancy and showed degraded performance, and maintaining subsystems under harsher environmental conditions at much lower than originally designed orbital altitude added to the operational complexities. Innovative workarounds were implemented by the operations team based on the study, deliberations, and exchanges among the mission, operations, flight dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion, controls, navigation, thermal, and other sub-system design teams across the ISRO centres, who worked in synergy to surmount these challenges. Since August 2022, 18 orbit manoeuvres have been performed to progressively lower the orbit. In between the de-orbiting, aero-braking studies at different solar panel orientations were also carried out to gain better insights into the physical process of atmospheric drag affecting the orbital decay of the satellite. The final de-boost strategy has been designed after taking into consideration several constraints, including visibility of the re-entry trace over ground stations, ground impact within the targeted zone, and allowable operating conditions of subsystems, especially the maximum deliverable thrust and the maximum firing duration of the thrusters. The final two de-boost burns followed by the ground impact are expected to take place between 16:30 IST to 19:30 IST on March seven, ISRO said. Aero-thermal simulations show that no large fragments of the satellites are likely to survive the aerothermal heating during the re-entry. Although the mission life of the satellite originally was three years, it continued to provide valuable data services for more than a decade supporting regional and global climate models till 2021, Bengaluru-headquartered national space agency said. UN/IADC (Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee) space debris mitigation guidelines recommend deorbiting a <keyword id="91911" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="leo" source="Orion">LEO</keyword> (Low Earth Orbit) object at its end-of-life (EOL), preferably through controlled re-entry to a safe impact zone, or by bringing it to an orbit where the orbital lifetime is less than 25 years, according ISRO. It is also recommended to carry out "passivation" of on-board energy sources to minimise the risk of any post-mission accidental break-up. The orbital lifetime of MT1 would have been more than 100 years in its 20 deg inclined operational orbit of 867 km altitude, according to ISRO. "As a responsible space agency committed to safe and sustainable operations in outer space, ISRO proactively takes efforts for better compliance with the UN/IADC space debris mitigation guidelines on post-mission disposal of LEO objects", the statement said. The re-entry experiment of MT1 has been undertaken as a part of the ongoing efforts as this satellite with sufficient left-over fuel presented a unique opportunity to test the relevant methodologies and understand the associated operational nuances of post mission disposal by direct re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere, it was stated. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/news/a-unique-cricket-match-for-wheelchair-bound-players-in-kolkata/articleshow/98446407.cms">A unique cricket match for wheelchair bound players in Kolkata</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/women-are-shaping-new-real-estate-trends-like-preference-for-bigger-homes-anarock/articleshow/98446173.cms">Women are shaping new real estate trends like preference for bigger homes: Anarock</a>

ISRO gears up for 'extremely challenging' experiment of controlled reentry of aged satellite

A recent survey conducted by <keyword id="64925" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="CSIR">CSIR</keyword> (Council of Scientific Industrial Research), <keyword id="6377129" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="government-of-india">Government of India</keyword>, has revealed that <keyword id="6575406" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="smokers">smokers</keyword> and vegetarians are less likely to contract <keyword id="8864712" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="covid-19-infection">Covid-19 infection</keyword>. The survey suggested smoking may be protective, despite Covid-19 being a respiratory disease, due to its role in increasing the mucous production that may be acting as the first line of defence among the <keyword id="3174643" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="smoking-population">smoking population</keyword>. It indicated that vegetarian food rich in fibre may have a role to play in providing immunity against COVID-19 due to its anti-inflammatory properties by modification of gut microbiota. The pan India survey was conducted by an eminent team of 140 doctors and research scientists to study the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, and their neutralization capability to infer possible risk factors for infection. The study assessed 10,427 adult individuals working in more than 40 CSIR laboratories and centers in urban and semi-urban settings spread across and their family members. These people voluntarily participated in the study. Earlier, two studies from France and similar reports from Italy, New York, and China reported lower Covid infection rates among smokers. A study by America's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<keyword id="6379474" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="cdc">CDC</keyword>), which examined over 7,000 people who tested positive for COVID-19, also vindicated the above findings. Interestingly, the study found that only 1.3 per cent of survey participants were smokers, compared to the CDC report that 14 per cent of all Americans smoke. Similarly, UCL (<keyword id="174869" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="University-College-London">University College London</keyword>) academics that looked at 28 papers across the UK, China, US, and France found the proportions of smokers among hospital patients were 'lower than expected. One of its studies showed that in the UK the proportion of smokers among COVID-19 patients was just five per cent, a third of the national rate of 14.4 per cent. Another found in France the rate being four times lower (7.1 per cent vs 32 per cent among all population). In China, a study noted that only 3.8 per cent of patients were smokers - despite more than half of the population regularly smoking cigarettes. In a separate study by Jin-jin Zhang to understand the influence of smoking behaviour on the susceptibility to <keyword id="1754604" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="coronavirus">Coronavirus</keyword> observed that only 9 (6.4 per cent) patients had a history of smoking, and 7 of them were past smokers. The study found that smoking populations were less likely to be infected with SARS-CoV-2. These findings were also confirmed by a French study of public health data that showed people who smoke, were 80 per cent less likely to fall prey to COVID-19 than non-smokers of the same age and sex. The Council of Scientific &amp; Industrial Research (CSIR), known for its cutting-edge R&amp;D knowledge base in diverse S&amp;T areas, is a contemporary R&amp;D organization. Having a pan-India presence, CSIR has a dynamic network of 40 national laboratories, 39 outreach centers, 3 Innovation Complexes, and 5 units. CSIR's R&amp;D expertise and experience are embodied in about 4,600 active scientists supported by about 8,000 scientific and technical personnel. CSIR covers a wide spectrum of science and technology - from radio and space physics, oceanography, geophysics, chemicals, drugs, genomics, biotechnology, and nanotechnology to mining, aeronautics, instrumentation, environmental engineering, and information technology. It provides significant technological intervention in many areas with regard to societal efforts which include environment, health, drinking water, food, housing, energy, farm and non-farm sectors. Further, CSIR's role in S&amp;T human resource development is noteworthy. CSIR is ranked at 84th among 4851 institutions worldwide and is the only Indian organization among the top 100 global institutions, according to the Scimago Institutions Ranking World Report 2014. CSIR holds the 17th rank in Asia and leads the country at the first position. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/the-covid-19-crisis-would-be-much-worse-without-these-good-samaritans-of-india-providing-home-cooked-food-financial-assistance-and-medicines/slidelist/82230244.cms#slideid=82230293">The COVID-19 crisis would be much worse without these good samaritans of India providing home-cooked food, financial assistance and medicines</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/indian-corporates-vcs-and-startups-are-now-looking-to-charter-flights-and-import-oxygen-cylinders-and-concentrators-into-the-country/articleshow/82230785.cms">Indian corporates, VCs and startups are now looking to charter flights and import oxygen cylinders and concentrators into the country</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/thelife/news/zerodha-nithin-kamath-says-its-time-to-pack-up-and-move-from-indias-large-cities-and-permanently-work-from-home/articleshow/82230947.cms">An Indian billionaire says it’s time to pack up and move from India’s large cities and permanently work from home</a>

Smokers and vegetarians may be less vulnerable to COVID-19 infection, says a government research organisation

Chennai, <keyword id="116095" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Space-Research-Organisation">Indian Space Research Organisation</keyword> Chairman K Sivan on Saturday said the space agency was developing '<keyword id="9090354" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-propulsion">green propulsion</keyword>' for its <keyword id="10498627" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="ambitious-human-space-flight-mission">ambitious human space flight mission</keyword>, 'Gaganyaan'. He also said it may be adopted for use in every stage of a rocket. He was speaking at the 16th convocation of SRM Institute of Science and Technology, near here. Sivan, also the Secretary, <keyword id="245720" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Department-of-Space">Department of Space</keyword>, advised the new graduates to take up 'calculated risk' in their life as it may safeguard them from 'absolute failure'. "As India continues to focus on economic growth, it needs to ensure that environmental damage is limited by adopting green technologies. ISRO has made space grade lithium-ion batteries and this technology is useful for mass adoption of electric vehicle", he noted. On the green propellant, Sivan said, "Even in the rocket propulsion, ISRO is developing green propulsion for its human space flight mission. In future, all the propulsion stages may adopt green propulsion," he said. According to ISRO, <keyword id="622933" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Polar-Satellite-Launch-Vehicle">polar satellite launch vehicle</keyword> (PSLV) a trusted workhorse of the space scientists -- is a four stage rocket filled with fuel which pushes the rocket to ensure that the satellite it carries is placed in the intended orbit. GSLV or a geo-stationery launch vehicle (GSLV) is a three stage rocket with a cryogenic upper stage. The Bengaluru-headquartered space agency had planned to launch its maiden human space flight mission 'Gaganyaan' by December 2021. But early this month, ISRO indicated that it is likely to be delayed by one year due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing students through virtual platform, the ISRO chief encouraged them to take up calculated risk as it would safeguard them from 'absolute failure.' "You may fail, but each failure would provide a valuable lesson. I can say with great confidence that India's space programme has been built on spectacular failures and each failure has resulted in improvements in our system", he said. Asking the students to innovate, Sivan said, innovation was not just having great idea on paper. "Innovation comes with a high risk of failure. You may be called crazy. Initial outcome of innovation may be imperfect. You must realize that you are not failing means you are not trying anything hard", he said. Referring to the space sector reforms announced by the Centre in June, he said, "the government has already announced space sector reforms for greater participation of non- governmental entities in space activity". "Our next PSLV (polar satellite launch vehicle) launch will have satellite from start-up agencies which will be the first product of this reform." he said. On the SRM Satellite 'SRMSAT' launched by ISRO in 2011, he said it was in 'healthy condition' and urged the university to come forward and make use of the space sector reform as announced by <keyword id="1576501" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="The-Government-of-India">the government of India</keyword>. "ISRO is very much open to you all. I request SRM to come forward with their innovative idea of making space activities as required by the Government of India. I am sure that SRM will do this work", he said. The Digital India initiative by the Centre was a key area to leverage and ISRO has already initiated reforms to make digital assets available easily to industry as well as for startups for making innovative applications in navigation, earth observation as well as disaster management, he said. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/top-stocks-to-watch-mrs-bectors-ril-bharti-airtel-vodafone-idea-ilfs-interglobe-aviation-future-group-deepak-nitrite-jubilant-foodworks-and-others/articleshow/79933826.cms">Top stocks to watch – Mrs Bectors, RIL, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, IL&amp;FS, InterGlobe Aviation, Future Group, Deepak Nitrite, Jubilant FoodWorks, and others</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/there-are-one-of-only-17-indian-companies-out-of-500-that-aced-the-du-pont-test/articleshow/79911627.cms">There are one of only 17 Indian companies out of 500 that aced the Du Pont test</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/wipro-buyback-offer-details-and-700-million-metro-ag-deal-drives-share-price/articleshow/79911875.cms">Wipro offers 10% more to buy back shares and signs a $700 million deal with Metro AG – everything that’s driving the IT services stock higher today</a>

ISRO developing green propulsion for human space mission 'Gaganyaan', says Chairman K Sivan

By the end of 2022, more than 650 million COVID infections had been reported to the <keyword id="6356311" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="world-health-organisation" source="Orion">World Health Organisation</keyword>. With the true number likely much higher, and the tally increasing by hundreds of thousands every week, the scientific community has been focused on understanding the impact of COVID on our physical health, mental health and brain function. In the early stage of the pandemic, sleep scientists charted the costs and benefits of lockdowns on sleep patterns. The main finding was that we slept more in lockdown but the quality of our sleep was worse. Now a second wave of data is beginning to explain how becoming infected with COVID is affecting our sleep and even intruding into our dreams. The most recent meta-analysis, a review of all the currently available scientific literature, estimates that 52% of people who contract COVID suffer from sleep disturbances during the infection. The most common type of sleep disturbance reported is insomnia. People with insomnia typically find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, and often wake up early in the mornings. Worryingly, sleep problems sometimes persist even after recovery from the infection. A study in China found that 26% of people who were admitted to hospital with COVID showed symptoms of insomnia two weeks after discharge. And a US study showed that people who had been infected with COVID were more likely than people who had never been infected to have trouble sleeping, even up to a month after a positive COVID test. Sleep difficulties and long COVID While most people recover from COVID quickly, some continue to have symptoms in the longer term. People suffering from long COVID seem very likely to face persistent sleep problems. A 2021 study surveyed more than 3,000 people with long COVID. Almost 80% of participants self-reported sleep problems, most commonly insomnia. A more recent study collected data on both sleep duration and quality using smart wristbands. Participants with long COVID slept less overall and got less deep sleep than participants who had never had COVID. Loss of deep sleep is particularly concerning, as this type of sleep reduces how tired we feel and strengthens concentration and memory. Lack of deep sleep may be partly responsible for the commonly reported "brain fog" during and after COVID. The fact COVID often interferes with sleep is also worrying because sleep helps our immune system to fight infections. Why does COVID affect our sleep? There are many reasons why a COVID infection might lead to poor sleep. One review identified physiological, psychological and environmental factors. COVID can have a direct impact on the brain, including the areas that control both wake and sleep states. We don't yet have a clear understanding of how this works, but possible mechanisms could include the virus infecting the central nervous system or affecting the brain's blood supply. Typical symptoms of COVID include fever, coughing and breathing difficulties. These are also well known to disturb sleep. Poor mental health can lead to sleep problems and vice versa. There's a strong link between catching COVID and mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety. This can be caused by worries about recovery, loneliness or social isolation. Such anxieties may make sleeping harder. Meanwhile, hospitalised COVID patients can face additional difficulties trying to sleep in busy hospital environments where sleep is often disturbed by noise, treatment and other patients. What about dreams? The International COVID-19 Sleep Study, a global research project involving sleep scientists from 14 countries, recently released its findings into dreaming. The study surveyed infected and uninfected participants about their dreams. Both groups had more dreams after the start of the pandemic than before. Intriguingly, the infected participants had more nightmares than the uninfected participants, while there was no difference between the groups before the pandemic. There's no simple explanation for why catching COVID may increase nightmares, but mental health may again play a role. Poor mental health is often accompanied by nightmares. The International COVID-19 Sleep Study team found the infected group showed more symptoms of conditions such as anxiety and depression. Getting help The close links between sleep and both mental and physical health mean that prevention and treatment of disturbed sleep have never been more important, and will require creative solutions from governments and healthcare providers. If you've had trouble sleeping during or after COVID, or are having more bad dreams than you used to, you're not alone. Both short- and long-term insomnia can often be treated with cognitive behavioural therapy (<keyword id="207775" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="cbt" source="Orion">CBT</keyword>) that you may be able to access through your doctor. For less severe sleep problems, the European Academy for Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Insomnia has compiled recommendations, some based on principles applied in CBT, that you can follow at home. These include: <ul><li>keeping a regular sleep-wake schedule </li><li>restricting thinking about things that make you feel stressed to specific times of day </li><li>using your bed only for sleep and sex </li><li>going to bed and getting up when you naturally feel inclined to do so </li><li>sharing feelings of stress and anxiety with family and friends</li><li>reducing sleep disruption due to light exposure by making sure your bedroom is as dark as possible </li><li>exercising regularly in daylight </li><li>avoiding eating close to bedtime.</li></ul> SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/banks/news/sbi-hdfc-bank-axis-bank-among-other-private-and-public-bank-earnings-could-see-a-further-ramp-up-in-q3-2022/articleshow/96768992.cms">Bank earnings could see a further ramp up in Q3, say analysts</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/skippi-ice-pops-what-this-hyderabad-popsicle-brand-is-doing-after-raising-rs-1-crore-from-shark-tank-india-season-1/articleshow/96759786.cms">Skippi Ice Pops – how the Hyderabad-based popsicle brand fared after bagging a ₹1 crore deal on Shark Tank India S1</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/tcs-infosys-wipro-and-other-it-companies-earnings-preview-for-q3-fy23/articleshow/96731891.cms">December quarter likely to be a weak one for the IT sector – Infosys amongst top analyst picks</a>

How Covid can disturb your sleep and dreams and what could help

<ul><li>In the last few years, we have seen many brands become more environment-friendly. There has been an increasing focus on sustainability. </li><li>Globally, brands like Diageo, Unilever Limited have started reevaluating their packaging to put the environment first. </li><li>However, so far, even limited-edition packaging from big brands this Diwali is all either plastic-based or made for one-time-use. </li><li>We speak to experts to find out if brands are making sustainability a priority in their business plans, infrastructure gap that India needs to fill in to become sustainable and when can we expect to see big Indian brands becoming 100% environment-friendly.</li></ul>For Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies and beauty brands, packaging is the final point of contact with customers. Having an unforgettable packaging design and <keyword id="10254633" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="eco-friendly-packaging">eco-friendly packaging</keyword> in today’s environment can help in communicating a disruptive image and stand out in the cluttered, competitive shelves. In the last few years, we have seen many brands become more environment-friendly and increase their focus on sustainability. Due to the lockdown and increased in-home consumption, consumers became more environmentally-conscious as they saw a higher than normal packaging in their own home trash that cannot be reused or recycled. Consumers, especially Millennials and GenZ, want companies to take sustainability and greater purpose more seriously and take action towards the betterment of our country. They are even willing to shell out more money or switch to a smaller brand. According to Capgemini’s latest research study on sustainability and changing consumer behaviour, 79% of consumers are changing their purchase preferences based on social responsibility, inclusiveness, or environmental impact. 53% of consumers and 57% in the 18-24 age group have switched to lesser known brands because they were sustainable. More than half of the consumers (52%) say that they share an emotional connection with products or organisations that they perceive as sustainable. Moreover, COVID-19 has increased consumer awareness and commitment to buying sustainably: 67% of consumers said that they will be more cautious about the scarcity of natural resources due to the COVID-19 crisis, and 65% said that they will be more mindful about the impact of their overall consumption in the “new normal”. This reinforces the need for big companies to increase their commitments towards responsible business practices and migrate to sustainable solutions to contribute to a circular economy. As a result, during the pandemic, brands like Diageo and Dettol launched limited edition eco-friendly packaging to test the waters indicating that more brands in India have started reevaluating their packaging strategy to put the environment first. HUL also brought Unilever’s ‘Love Beauty and Planet’ range of skincare products to India after observing an increasing demand for <keyword id="6955069" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sustainable-products">sustainable products</keyword>. According to media reports, companies such as Marico, Bacardi, ASICS, HUL, Nestle India, Future Consumer, Coca-Cola, Pepsi-co, Parle Agro will move to 100% recyclable packaging by 2025 helping towards a sustainable future. On the other hand, Diwali is also that time of the year when brands pour in extra money to launch limited-edition festive packaging. From Kurkure to Mondelez, all packaging from big companies is either plastic-based or one-time-use this year. So we reached out to experts to find out if companies are investing in launching eco-friendly packaging on a larger scale, what are some of the hurdles that are stopping brands from launching permanent eco-friendly packaging today and when can we expect to see India a plastic-free country. Infrastructure aid Talking about resources the country needs to inch closer towards circular economy, Arnab Ray, Creative Director, Landor said, “I think resources can be created if the mindset is there. Our thinking for plastic-free/recyclable products is normally limited to a small range of products, sometimes boutique and not something associated with mass brands. India is a large country, so it also means the Government playing a large role along with corporates. According to reports, FMCG companies are aiming to go for 100% recyclable plastic packaging by 2025 in accordance to the Government’s initiatives on plastic waste management. Also, in my view, change in perspective and innovation can be answers to creating more resources on a large scale basis. One of the largest sources of plastic waste, Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles used for beverage products, are being re-purposed to make apparels, footwear, and furniture by many companies. Intelligent use of recyclable material can ensure a more sustained effort towards creating products that are good for the planet.” Radha Ghai, Creative Director &amp; Senior Partner, Alok Nanda &amp; Company, said that India has enough resources for small-scale production but not for large-scale yet. She said, “We do have the resources and lots of new materials, which are environment friendly, that are being explored but not at a large scale level yet. Plastic free/recyclable solutions are being explored at smaller scale levels especially in cities where people are becoming more aware of being sensitive to the environment and are willing to pay extra for these solutions. We have the technology to produce recyclable packaging, but again not at a large-scale level yet, as in India we don’t have the infrastructure to produce for large-scale products. Cost of materials and technology is expensive unlike China, which has been the biggest market till now. The government has to support the manufacturers big time to create these solutions.” Ashwini Deshpande, Co-founder and Director, Elephant Design pointed out that we need to take a holistic view here and look at the entire packaging process. Deshpande said, “Going plastic-free is a significant and high-impact step, but we must look at all the emerging concerns like packaging materials, printing inks, distribution logistics, consumption, and recycling. Each of these decisions impacts the planet. Going plastic-free is not the end of responsibility. Nor is believing the packaging will be recycled if we put a logo on it. Sustainability is a mindset. Any change needs to start with the intent that can then convert to policy. So, this is not about having enough resources or appropriate technology. The question is whether companies selling products in plastic packaging in India (whether MNCs or Indian) have enough genuineness to move towards replacing existing practices, processes &amp; materials with sustainable ones.” Speaking about how change will only come if clients change their mindset, Deshpande added, “If there is a strong intent, they will be able to spend resources on research, innovation, and integration to meet the objectives. If replacing materials seems like a long shot, smaller measures like reducing packaging sizes to appropriate dimensions, reducing number of inks or area of ink coverage to reduce negative impact can also prove effective first steps. Recovering solvents from ink usage, greener fuels for transporting goods, incentivizing consumers for recycling would be some of the other ways to become more sustainable.” Becoming a part of usual packaging process Designers are constantly in search of materials that provide long-term hygiene efficacy, materials or processes that do least harm to the ecology. The topic of sustainability has also become a part of boardroom conversations between agency and client. “Interestingly, this subject is becoming a large part of the many conversations we have with our existing and prospective clients. From a leading Art and Stationery brand to big FMCG clients to even our clients in the Alcohol industry, environment-friendly packaging is definitely a topic of discussion, and we constantly see opportunities collaboratively with our client partners to see where discussions can turn to reality. Globally, Landor &amp; Fitch have launched a joint initiative called The Good Squad, which is a collaborative effort of all the offices in the area of sustainability, where we research, share knowledge and also map out future prospects for all categories over and above our sharp focus on FMCG. So, in my view, the topic is no longer in the back burner but very much need of the hour. The pandemic did put the subject to the background a bit but also made us realise how important protecting the earth and its environment is for a better and more sustainable future,” said Ray. Deshpande, on the other hand, shared with us that conversation on eco-friendly packaging is still not a priority. She said, “Conversations about environment-friendly materials are increasing. Most MNCs also have sustainability experts involved in the packaging design process. But honestly, it is far from becoming a priority. Marketers, designers, print converters, logistics partners, retailers, consumers, and recycling agencies must come together to form the policy and develop practices to reach the common goals. It is a challenge now because all these stakeholders are not on the same platform yet. But I see that as the only way forward.” While clients do consider environmental-friendly options, they are still not willing to loosen their purse strings. Ghai said, “When we do get packaging briefs and when we start giving packaging solutions eco-friendly options are appreciated for sure. The environmental concern is there for sure but costs become a big hurdle for clients to produce materials that are eco friendly. Hence, limited edition products do get launched for a small set of audience, but for a larger scale demand the clients are forced to continue with more cost effective options.” Can India become a 100% eco-friendly country anytime soon? According to Bain &amp; Company, 65% of global consumers are ready to shell out more for brands which use sustainable products and nine in every ten customers are also ready to switch to eco-friendly brands if price and quality were equal. While consumers are willing to shell out more money for eco-friendly products, the audience is still very small and sustainable market is still at its nascent stage in India. Speaking about some of the hurdles that are stopping India from becoming eco-friendly at a larger scale, Ghai said, “Unfortunately, there’s still a large audience that doesn’t really pay much attention to these issues. Sensitivity to the environment is there but still not very active in their head. General perception is that if it is plastic free it will not be durable or if it's organic it must be expensive. Also, other products are readily available at shops nearby or at a supermarket, so ease of picking up takes preference over specially going to a shop or to look out for eco friendly products online. Though a few brands are moving towards recyclable materials that are still not 100% eco friendly, it is going to take time.” Ray thinks it is challenging but possible. He said, “India is a large country, hence the sheer volume of products can make moving to a 100% environment-friendly market a daunting task, but not really an impossible one. Unilever, globally has reduced one-third of its packaging waste. If the government and the big companies work hand-in-glove to mobilise and fast-track the initiative, then change is certainly possible. Consumers are becoming more and more aware of the problem and are switching to eco-friendly alternatives. But again, these numbers are small, so it becomes imperative for the large companies along with the government, to raise awareness and help sustainable living become more achievable and a reality.” Deshpande opines it is a far-fetched idea but right support from the government and brands can make it happen. “While 100% is too idealistic, it will happen sooner than we all imagine if the government proactively makes it mandatory. On their own, very few Indian brands would take the steps. Also, why should the consumers bear the costs alone? The onus is also on the corporates. They cannot hope to maintain their bottom-line and recover the entire expense of saving the planet out of their consumers,” said she.

How ready is India to launch permanent eco-friendly packaging and become a plastic free country?

<ul><li>On <keyword id="18996" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Environment-Day">World Environment Day</keyword>, it is important for brands to reflect on how sustainable their products are. </li><li>Ophira Bhatia, Director – Corporate &amp; Government Affairs, India, Mondelēz International writes how the brand has lived its purpose this year by doing its bit for the environment.</li></ul>2020 has been an unusual year to say the least! We are all living through the threat of Covid-19 impacting our lives and loved ones. Over the last few weeks we have experienced cyclones in Maharashtra, Gujarat and West Bengal or the locust invasion. All of this reinforces the power of nature and the need for us to urgently live in balance with our environment. At Mondelēz International, growing our positive impact on people and the planet is the core of who we are as a company. Our Purpose to empower people to snack right is deeply embedded in making snacking both sustainable and mindful by creating a future where people and planet thrive. More importantly consumers today expect their loved brands and companies to go beyond creating products. They want to know they can feel good about our snacks because they are made the right way, sustainably with high-quality ingredients and with respect to people and planet. Our approach to sustainability covers the efficiency of the farms where our raw ingredients grow, through the impact of the supply chain that produces and delivers our products, to the recyclability of the packaging that our consumers dispose of and to highlighting how our consumers can snacking mindfully. Using our Purpose as its framework, our 2019 Snacking Made Right report details our achievements and objectives as we seek to deliver the right snack, for the right moment, made the right way for consumers and customers all over the world. The report outlines Mondelēz International’s ongoing commitment to leverage its global scale to deliver positive change. Our success in snacking made right lies in our ability to drive impact at scale and, as such, we focus our efforts in the two areas where we can make the biggest positive impact on the wellbeing of people and planet: sustainable snacking and mindful snacking. Our India business has made significant strides as we live our purpose and stay tuned into local needs of our consumers and the environment. So how are we making a real difference to sustainability? It starts with our business approach which takes into consideration our ecological, social and economic environment. As we make our snacks the right way, I am so proud of the partnership we have with over 100,000 cocoa farmers in India to grow our key raw material for chocolates. This partnership goes back 55 years, when Cadbury brought the first cocoa sapling to be planted in Kerala. Cocoa is not a native crop to India and when we started this journey in the southern states of the county, little must we have imagined that today we provide 3 million seedlings annually to support farmers grow cocoa as an intercrop. Our team continues to support farmers in growing cocoa – with extension services, R&amp;D through academic and research partnerships. This whole partnership has been built on sustainability – leading to increase in farm productivity, income stability (since farmers grow cocoa as an intercrop, they get a dual income from their primary crop and cocoa) and generating employment which has positively impacted communities. From raw materials to packaging. Plastic packaging and Multi Layered Plastics (MLP) contribute to food safety by effectively addressing key issues like adulteration, contamination and infestation. Globally, 93.3% of our total packaging (both plastic and non-plastic) is designed to be recyclable – our goal is to make all packaging recyclable by 2025. In India, all our MLP is 100% recycled through our Extended Producer Responsibility commitments. This implies we work with NGO partners to collect, segregate and dispose of plastics equivalent to the quantity of plastic that we use in manufacture of our products, which unfortunately ends up as waste when consumers have consumed the product. Mondelez is perhaps one of the few companies in India which is certified by EY as being water and carbon positive and zero waste to landfill. We have been consistently working to increase the usage of alternate sources of energy. By end of 2019, Mondelez India manufacturing facilities ran on 44.4% renewable energy. For example, we have invested in a biodiesel project at our manufacturing plant at Induri, Maharashtra, where we have successfully reduced CO2 emissions at the plant by 1,450 tons (15%) per year. One of our largest plants in India, at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, has a captive solar plant. And just over the last two years, we have planted very 25,000 trees in our communities – many of them fruit trees. Sustainability also implies our support of society and community. For the last 6 years, our Shubh Aarambh community project across 8 states has been engaging with communities to improve feeding practices, health and hygiene, nutrition and childhood development services to strengthen the future resilience of our communities. The aim of the project is to promote healthy lifestyles and ensure regular play/sports helping the children and young people to stay active and fit. The project has also partnered with communities to provide clean water supply, developing kitchen gardens and playgrounds and green spaces across various locations. This work becomes more important post the Covid pandemic as health and hygiene take centerstage. With a strong foundation of beloved iconic brands, stakeholder partnerships and purposeful signature programs like Cocoa Life, I feel truly proud of the work we do. Very often purpose and values are words on a wall for organisations – but at Mondelez our business strategy is built around our purpose bringing benefits not only to our people, planet, communities but also driving business success.

Living our purpose

<ul><li>India’s national capital region is choking under a thick blanket of smog with pollution levels as high as 1,000 units in some areas. </li><li>The growing awareness has increased the demand for jobs in energy sector among aspirants. </li><li>According to Indeed, there was a 76% surge in the demand for jobs such as air quality management — offering remunerations as high as 800,000 annually. </li></ul>Altruistic young people who want to help others would earlier opt for careers in the police force or the Army. Now, there is clean energy sector which is offering a new set of opportunities. In the last few days, the National Capital Region is choking under a thick blanket of smog with pollution levels as high as 1,000 units in some areas. The plummeting air quality levels has highlighted the need to address and fight pollution. The growing awareness has directed job aspirants towards this sector. According to Indeed, there has been a 76% surge in the demand for jobs such as air quality management — offering remunerations as high as ₹8 lakh annually. For job seekers who are keen on combating <keyword id="55910" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Air-Pollution">air pollution</keyword>, here are five such job roles to choose from, according to job search platform. 1. Job role: Vehicle Energy Analyst Annual Compensation: ₹8.3 lakh The job responsibilities of a Vehicle Energy Analyst involves research and analysis of pollution levels, global power and energy markets and consumer requirements and trends. The role demands strong knowledge of sustainable energy and resources. 2. Job role: Environmental Impact Specialist Annual Compensation: ₹8.3 lakh While elementary measures and implementation techniques are important to keep environmental hazards and pollution levels in check, studying the impact necessary too. The job focuses on studying the impact of human actions and approach towards the environment. An impact specialist can help influence the society and steer them towards sustainable ways and means. 3. Job role: Energy and Sustainability Manager Annual Compensation: ₹7.7 lakh As organisations move to adapt to sustainability goals across sectors, they need employees who can manage this change.An Energy and Sustainability Manager brings sustainable initiatives and uses energy optimisation ways to tackle <keyword id="668197" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmental-pollution">environmental pollution</keyword>. 4. Job role: Air Quality Research Analyst Annual Compensation: ₹3.6 lakh With <keyword id="2071721" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Air-Quality-Index">Air Quality Index</keyword> on an all time low in the country, the role of Air Quality Research Analyst is gaining popularity too. This job requires the candidate to analyse the air quality and layout a strategy to keep pollution levels in check. The job responsibilities include developing emission inventories and air pollution dispersion modelling. It will enable efforts to grow towards a low carbon economy. 4. Job role: Environmental Engineer Annual Compensation: ₹2.6 lakh As engineering is the most sought after job role among millenials, environmental engineering is gaining popularity too. An Environment Engineer develops solutions to problems like recycling processes and waste disposal techniques. 5. Job role: Electric Vehicle <keyword id="170245" type="POSITION" weightage="20" keywordseo="software-developer">Software developer</keyword> Annual compensation: ₹2.3 lakh Electric vehicles offer a potential solution to control air pollution caused by automobiles. The job of an Electric Vehicle Software developer includes analysing, developing and deploying software that can control air pollution. The salaries are based on Indeed’s analysis of employee salaries, users, and job advertisements.

Here are the five job roles in clean energy sector that can help control air pollution

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image">Bill Gates/YouTubeBill Gates visiting a ranch in Queensland, Australia, in 2017.</div></div></div><ul><li>Bill Gates wants to create the perfect cow.</li><li>This cow would produce as much milk as a European cow and withstand heat as well as an African one.</li><li>He has invested $40 million into a British non-profit that researches animal vaccinations and genetics.</li></ul> Bill Gates has funded genetic research into how to create the perfect cow - one that will produce more milk and be able to withstand temperatures beyond that of the average cow.The Microsoft founder has invested $40 million (£28 million) in the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), a non-profit organisation based in Edinburgh, Scotland, that conducts research into livestock vaccinations and genetics, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-42822110">the BBC reported</a>.Gates wants to help create the perfect cow that will produce as much milk as a European cow and be able to withstand heat as well as an African cow, <a href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/news/bill-gates-pumps-millions-into-quest-for-a-supercow-7swc6dntw">according to The Times newspaper</a>.He said: "The impact per dollar we spend is super-high in this area. You can have a cow that is four times as productive with the same survivability."Although it's unclear how exactly such cows will be created, <a href="https://www.gatesnotes.com/Development/What-Cowboys-Can-Teach-Us-About-Feeding-the-World">Gates has previously proposed</a> creating cows via artificial insemination.His endowment, made through his philanthropic organisation the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, forms part of a larger investment which includes cash from the UK's Department for International Development.Gates is expected to deliver a speech in Edinburgh alongside UK International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt later on Friday.He told the BBC ahead of his visit of his excitement "to see how the UK's leadership in research and innovation doesn't just benefit Britain, but also saves and improves lives in the poorest parts of the world."Although climate scientists have warned that cows and dairy products can lead to further environmental degradation, Gates says they can help mitigate global poverty and starvation.<a href="https://www.gatesnotes.com/Development/What-Cowboys-Can-Teach-Us-About-Feeding-the-World">He said in a blog post last July</a>: "While there are legitimate questions about whether the world can meet its appetite for animal products without destroying the environment, it's a fact that many poor people rely on cattle for both nutrition and income." <div class="margin-top"> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/german-brothers-make-drone-out-of-bathtub-and-fly-around-in-it-2018-1">2 German brothers made a drone out of their bathtub and flew around in it</a></h3> <div> </div> </div>

Bill Gates is funding genetic research into how to create the perfect cow

<ul><li><keyword id="48505" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="NCERT">NCERT</keyword> has <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/puducherry/no-homework-for-cbse-kids-till-class-ii-ncert/articleshow/63837831.cms">ordered</a> the 18,000-odd schools under the <keyword id="69419" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Central-Board-of-Secondary-Education">Central Board of Secondary Education</keyword> to not give <keyword id="6453721" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="homework">homework</keyword> to children up to Class II.</li><li>It has also condemned the practice of bifurcating classes on the basis of student proficiency, like ‘elegant’ and ‘amazing’ as it only promotes discrimination. </li><li>Earlier, the <keyword id="6356155" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="cbse">CBSE</keyword> had asked affiliated <keyword id="6356508" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="school">school</keyword>s to limit the weight of a school bag to be no more than 10% of the child’s body weight. </li></ul> The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/puducherry/no-homework-for-cbse-kids-till-class-ii-ncert/articleshow/63837831.cms">ordered</a> the 18,000-odd schools under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to not give homework to children up to Class II. Additionally, the amount of homework given to students from classes III to V should not exceed two hours a week. Homework for middle school students will be limited to an hour per day and those in high and higher secondary classes can be given homework for two hours a day. The NCERT filed a counter affidavit addressing a writ petition seeking a direction to CBSE-affiliated schools to strictly adhere to the syllabus prescribed by NCERT, and not to overload students. This petition was moved by advocate M Purushothaman in the <keyword id="6360667" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="madras-high-court">Madras High Court</keyword>. The National Curriculum Framework-2005 also limits books for students in classes I and II. These should only be language and mathematics now. Whereas, for students from class III to V, the NCERT prescribes language, environmental science and mathematics books. It has also acknowledged that the manner in which subjects like General Knowledge are taught only perpetuates useless rote learning. It suggested that children should be taught to access information instead of memorising their textbooks. The organisation has also condemned the practice of bifurcating classes on the basis of student proficiency, like ‘elegant’ and ‘amazing’ as it only promotes discrimination. The council said, “The demonising effect of such labelling is devastating on children. Therefore, parents need to be vigilant about these practices, and rather than taking pride of the fact that their wards are studying in a school where these discriminating practices prevail, they need to stand against these to prevent discrimination in the society on the basis of abilities.” That said, such directions have been given before. In September 2016, the CBSE asked affiliated schools not to assign homework to students of class I and II and to lighten the load of their school bags that was affecting their backs. The weight of a bag was directed to be no more than 10% of the child’s body weight. According to a <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/schoolbags-of-kids-too-heavy-smash-limit-by-20/articleshow/61176680.cms">TOI report</a>, these directives were clearly disregarded as kids were lugging 5-10kg bags, roughly 15% to 20% more than the weight they should have carried.

No more homework for classes I and II students: National Council of Educational Research and Training

<keyword id="2349466" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sanjaya-Rajaram">Sanjaya Rajaram</keyword>, a 71-year-old <keyword id="2355968" type="POSITION" weightage="40" keywordseo="crop-scientist">crop scientist</keyword>, was named as the recipient of the 2014 <keyword id="753977" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="World-Food-Prize">World Food Prize</keyword>. He was awarded $250,000 as prize by <keyword id="2355959" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nobel-Peace-Prize-laureate-Norman-Borlaug">Nobel Peace Prize laureate Norman Borlaug</keyword>. 
 Rajaram, who was born in a small village in <keyword id="6357713" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Uttar-Pradesh">Uttar Pradesh</keyword>, began research work with Borlaug in 1969. He successfully crossed varieties of winter and spring wheat with his own plant breeding techniques. This led to the development of plants that have higher yields and dependability under a wide range of environments. 
 The <keyword id="9662" type="POSITION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Scientist">scientist</keyword>, who is a citizen of <keyword id="3746" type="COUNTRY" weightage="40" keywordseo="Mexico">Mexico</keyword>, is credited with developing 480 varieties of wheat that have been released in 51 countries. 
 “It’s a great honour. I am honoured that the <keyword id="2355960" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="World-Food-Prize-committee">World Food Prize committee</keyword> has recognized me for the work I have done,” said Rajaram. According to him, the next big challenge is developing plants with more drought tolerance, staving off the effects of salt water intrusion as oceans rise and other issues related to climate change. 
 Rajaram expanded upon his mentor Borlaug’s work with his own achievements, said <keyword id="1297326" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="40" keywordseo="World-Food-Prize-Foundation">World Food Prize Foundation</keyword> president <keyword id="2355967" type="PERSON" weightage="40" keywordseo="Kenneth-Quinn">Kenneth Quinn</keyword>. 
 
“His breakthrough breeding technologies have had a far-reaching and significant impact in providing more food around the globe and alleviating world hunger,” said Quinn. 
 Quinn said it’s fitting that the prize be awarded to Rajaram as the Des Moines-based organization celebrates the centennial of Borlaug’s 1914 birth in Cresco, Iowa. Borlaug, who won the 1970 Nobel for boosting agricultural production in what has become known as the <keyword id="50335" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Green-Revolution">Green Revolution</keyword>, launched the World Food Prize in 1986. 
 The foundation also added Rajaram’s new varieties can be grown in marginal areas, such as small <keyword id="6439698" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="40" keywordseo="mountain">mountain</keyword> plots in Pakistan, remote areas in China and in the acidic soils of Brazil. Rajaram said he plans to give some of the money from the prize to private organisations in India who work with the poor and the remaining money could be used for plant breeding research. 
(Image: azteca noticias)

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