Latest news with #agriculturalproductivity
Sustainability Times
15-07-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'They Cloned a Yak in the Himalayas!': Chinese Scientists Defy Nature with First-Ever Livestock Copy at 12,000 Feet
IN A NUTSHELL 🔬 Chinese scientists have successfully cloned the world's first yak, marking a significant milestone in biotechnology . . 📈 This breakthrough aims to enhance agricultural productivity and improve food security in high-altitude regions like Tibet. and improve food security in high-altitude regions like Tibet. 🧬 The cloning utilized somatic cell cloning , a technique that allows for the propagation of animals with desirable traits. , a technique that allows for the propagation of animals with desirable traits. 🌍 The innovation draws inspiration from the iconic cloning of Dolly the sheep, highlighting both scientific potential and ethical considerations. In a groundbreaking scientific achievement, Chinese researchers have successfully cloned a yak, marking a significant milestone in livestock breeding technology. The cloned calf, delivered via C-section on July 11 in Tibet, weighs in at an impressive 73.9 pounds and is reportedly in excellent health. This advancement not only underscores China's growing capabilities in biotechnology but also opens new doors for enhancing agricultural productivity in high-altitude regions like Tibet. As traditional livestock breeding faces numerous challenges, innovations like these offer promising solutions for sustainable development. The Cloning Process: A New Frontier in Biotechnology Chinese scientists employed a fascinating technique known as somatic cell cloning to produce the world's first cloned yak. This method involves transferring DNA from a body (somatic) cell into an egg cell that has had its nucleus removed. The ability to reprogram adult cells to develop into a full organism is a remarkable feat of genetic engineering, echoing the pioneering work done on Dolly the sheep in the 1990s. Somatic cell cloning allows researchers to select and propagate animals with desirable traits, such as increased size and enhanced milk production, through whole-genome selection. This precision breeding technique is particularly crucial in Tibet, where yaks play an indispensable role in the local economy and ecology. By creating yaks that are stronger, more productive, and disease-resistant, scientists aim to bolster food security and improve the livelihoods of communities dependent on these animals. 'Wild Spinach Saves the Day': Scientists Discover This Ordinary Plant Could Stop Catastrophic Fungus From Destroying US Farmlands The Importance of Yaks in Tibetan Culture and Economy Yaks are vital to life on the Tibetan Plateau, having been domesticated for thousands of years. Their unique ability to thrive at high altitudes where other livestock cannot makes them essential for the survival of local communities. These animals provide meat, milk, and fuel, and serve as reliable pack animals, enabling the transportation of goods across Tibet's challenging terrain. Beyond their economic contributions, yaks are integral to the region's cultural heritage. They support traditional herding lifestyles and participate in religious and cultural practices. Furthermore, yaks contribute to maintaining the ecological balance of Tibetan grasslands, grazing sustainably, and promoting biodiversity. The introduction of cloned yaks could enhance these roles, ensuring that yaks continue to support both the cultural and economic fabric of Tibetan society. Apple Origins Uncovered: Stunning New Study Maps 60-Million-Year Journey From Ancient Forests to Worldwide Domination Lessons from Dolly: Pioneering Cloning Technology The successful cloning of a yak in China draws inspiration from the iconic achievement of cloning Dolly the sheep in 1996. Dolly was the first mammal to be cloned using somatic cell nuclear transfer, a process that demonstrated the potential of cloning technology. Her birth proved that specialized adult cells could be reprogrammed to create a new organism, challenging existing notions in the field of genetics and biotechnology. Dolly's creation spurred global interest in cloning, highlighting both its scientific potential and ethical implications. Her legacy continues to influence modern cloning research, as scientists explore ways to harness this technology for agricultural and medical advancements. The cloning of a yak in Tibet is a testament to the enduring impact of Dolly's pioneering journey, demonstrating how lessons from the past can shape the future of science. 'Farmers Freak Out': This Wild New AI Warns of Crop Diseases Before You Even See a Single Rotting Leaf Future Prospects: Cloning and Sustainable Development The advent of yak cloning opens up new possibilities for sustainable development in high-altitude regions like Tibet. By enhancing the genetic traits of yaks, researchers aim to improve agricultural productivity and ensure food security for local communities. Cloning technology could also play a crucial role in preserving endangered species and biodiversity, offering a lifeline for ecosystems threatened by climate change and human activity. As cloning technology advances, it is essential to consider the ethical dimensions of its application. Balancing scientific innovation with ethical responsibility will be key to ensuring that cloning contributes positively to society. How can we harness the power of cloning to address global challenges while respecting the complex ethical questions it poses? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (24)
Times of Oman
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Times of Oman
India-Argentina discuss drone technology partnership during PM Modi's visit
Buenos Aires: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his historic visit to Argentina, discussed with South American President Javier Milei avenues of cooperation in newer areas such as drone technology, according to details provided by External Affairs Secretary (East), P Kumaran. Addressing a press briefing after the bilateral meeting between the two leaders, Kumaran said that the conversation between PM Modi and Milei "significantly dealt with the use of drones and multiple purposes for which they can be put into." "There was discussion about using it to tackle IUU fishing- illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, especially encroaching fishermen into exclusive economic zones of Argentina. There was also talk about using drones for cattle management, increasing agricultural productivity for border surveillance and the Argentinian side also talked about how drones could help in the surveillance of high tension power transmission lines using drones instead of the traditional reliance on helicopters which is much more expensive," he said. In another novel area of cooperation, Kumaran said that PM Modi invited Argentina to join the International Big Cat Alliance. "The two leaders discussed cooperation under an initiative that India drives called the International Big Cat Alliance, which protects and promotes cooperation between the member states of the IBCA in protecting some six identified big cats- lions, tigers, and jaguars and so on, six of them. The Prime Minister welcomed Argentina to join the International Big Cat Alliance and to work with us on sharing experiences and capacity building in terms of conservation of the big cats." As per the Ministry of External Affairs, the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) was launched by PM Modi in 2023. It primarily aims for conservation of seven big cats namely Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar and Puma, with objectives like facilitation of collaboration and synergy amongst the concerned stakeholders, consolidation of successful conservation practices and expertise to achieve conservation of big cats around the globe and underscores India's leadership and commitment to global wildlife conservation. In a recap of the visit of PM Modi, the MEA Secretary said, "The Prime Minister last visited Argentina in 2018 for the G20 Summit. However, this is the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 57 years, making it a historical visit." He noted that PM had begun his engagements by laying a wreath at the bust of General San Martin, the revered Argentinian freedom fighter. "The tribute acknowledged his enduring legacy and pivotal role in Argentina's independence movement. Following the tribute, the Prime Minister was received at Casa Rosada by President Javier Milei, where he was accorded a ceremonial welcome. Subsequently, the two leaders had a brief tet-a-tet, followed by delegation-level talks, during which they reviewed the entire range of bilateral relations." The MEA Secretary said that PM Modi thanked President Milei for extending warm hospitality to him and his delegation, and also appreciated the gracious welcome. Prime Minister Modi's engagements in Buenos Aires not only reflected India's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Argentina but also showcased the enduring spirit of the Indian diaspora. Their heartfelt reception, marked by cultural performances and chants, underscored the deep bonds that connect Indian communities across the world with their roots.
Zawya
20-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nigeria: How Gov Ododo is leveraging multilateral partnership to transform road infrastructure?
In a bold move to bridge the gaps in Kogi State's road infrastructure and position it as a model of sustainable development, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has embarked on an ambitious strategy of leveraging multilateral partnerships to revitalize rural access, enhance connectivity, reverse environmental degradation, and boost agricultural productivity anchored on local content. While the state government is currently working on over 400 kilometers of township roads, including roads in Omala, Idah, Bassa in Kogi East, Mopamuro, Egbe, Ijumu in Kogi West and Okene, Okehi, and Adavi in Kogi Central, there are currently over 200 kilometres of rural roads connecting about 50 communities across most of the agricultural belts in several local government areas in the state, largely enabled by multilateral partnerships and strategic interventions. Central to this vision of innovative multilateral partnerships is the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL), with its unprecedented erosion control projects at Etahi in Okene, Olubiojo in Ankpa, and Omigbo in Kabba, representing Kogi Central, East, and Western Senatorial zones, respectively, worth 29.9 Billion Naira. Equally pivotal is the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), which has already initiated construction of over 200 kilometres of rural access roads across the state. These initiatives, implemented in collaboration with multilateral organisations such as the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Federal Government of Nigeria, among other donor agencies, are closely aligned with Governor Ododo's campaign promises anchored on a commitment of not only transforming Kogi's physical landscape but at the same time breathing new life into its economy by boosting agricultural output and creating jobs. RAAMP, an initiative by the World Bank, and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has emerged as a cornerstone of the administration's strategy to link rural and agricultural production communities with markets and essential services. In October 2024, Governor Ododo flagged off the construction of 65 kilometres of rural access roads connecting major agro-producing communities in Lokoja, Adavi and Okehi local government areas. Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at Apata, near Obajana, Governor Ododo emphasized that: 'These rural roads are not just transport links, they are lifelines that connect our traders, farmers, and communities, fostering economic growth and food security. By improving access, we are empowering farmers to compete in regional and national markets, thereby boosting incomes and reducing poverty.' The governor maintained that strategic connections to be enhanced by the project marked the beginning of a broader rural road network aimed at enhancing connectivity, lowering transportation costs for farmers, and improving access to markets. True to the governor's manifesto, which pledged to explore innovative financing models such as public-private partnerships for roads and other public infrastructure, the RAAMP initiative is a textbook example, blending international donor support with state-driven priorities to address critical infrastructure gaps in the state. While RAAMP tackles the rural connectivity challenge, ACReSAL focuses on another pressing concern: environmental degradation and the threat it poses to agricultural sustainability and peoples' wellbeing. In Etahi, Olubiojo, and Omigbo, years of unchecked seasonal erosion have carved deep gullies, devastating farmlands, and displacing communities. In response, the ongoing ACReSAL environmental remediation projects funded by its partners like the World Bank and implemented in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment aim to restore these landscapes through bioengineering and climate-resilient techniques. Governor Ododo harped on the significance of these projects when he noted: 'We are not only building roads and bridges; we are building trust, inclusion, and ownership by ensuring our people benefit directly from the process.' He further stated that the projects are not merely technical interventions but people-centered solutions designed for long-term impacts, as he stressed during the recent project inspection tour in Kogi Central, emphasizing that the administration has evolved a statewide scope of interventions. 'What we are doing in Kogi Central is also taking place in Kogi East and Kogi West. Our project monitoring teams are also conducting inspections in other parts of the state. We will continue to monitor, evaluate, and complete projects that matter to the people,' he said. A testament to all-inclusiveness in the development of road infrastructure in the state is visible in the several rural road projects by RAAMP including the 24.1KM Ilai-Ifeolukotun road in Yagba East local government; 19.55KM Aku-Uro-Obajana road, 6.59KM Osara-Atami road, 6.83KM Elubi-Etiaja-Ajakwu-Ulaja road in Dekina local government area, 4.13KM Odidoko-Ugbamaka-Ubojo-Oloyo-Emakpe road in Olamaboro local government area, 16.03KM Eganyi-FFN road in Ajaokuta local government area, 1.33KM EMMCO-Umuaga road in Okene local government area, 2.41KM Aku-UrukuOdoba road in Adavi local government area and the 18.95KM Ibado Akpacha-Ojiaji-Ogudu road in Omala local government area. These projects are serving as engines of economic empowerment, inclusion, and promoting local content in project delivery. Current data reveals that over 5,000 skilled and semi-skilled youths are employed across the state, from road construction sites in Obajana, Omala, and Aku to erosion control sites in Ankpa, Okene, and Kabba-Bunu. As Benjamin Oguche, a mason working on one of the ACReSAL project sites in Ankpa, shared:'I am working on the gully erosion control sites. They (the construction firm) taught us how to lay asphalt and use machinery. Now I can get similar jobs anywhere in the country.' The ripple effects are already apparent. In Etahi, ongoing construction of roads coupled with erosion control has revitalized community life almost overnight. In Olubiojo and Omigbo, ACReSAL's land restoration, now over 65% complete, has restored access to fertile lands previously lost to erosion, enabling a return to farming and food production. As these projects progress across the state, they herald a new era for Kogi. Upon completion, RAAMP's road networks will connect rural dwellers to schools, healthcare centres, and markets, while ACReSAL's restoration efforts, supported by over three billion Naira in community revolving loans as well as plans to plant trees for reforestation on 10,000 hectares of land in the state, will safeguard Kogi's agricultural productivity, the environment and the wellbeing of the people. Overall, Governor Ododo's administration is proving that strategic multilateral partnerships can turn campaign promises into tangible progress. By aligning international and national interventions with a clear, community-focused development agenda, he is not just bridging infrastructure gaps, he is building a new Kogi State where collective commitment to sustainability and shared prosperity become a reality for all.
