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Renewable energy to create 35 million power sector jobs: Report

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New Delhi (NVI): A recent study predicted that solar and other renewable can provide a global energy jobs revolution. A system based on a 100% share of renewable energy would be cleaner, cheaper and better equipped to fight climate change, use of renewable energy would rely on million more new jobs than those provided by conventional power generation technologies.

The solar industry will provide 22 million jobs by 2050, according to the study, ‘Job creation during the global energy transition towards 100% renewable power system by 2050’. The report considers jobs in a range of sectors including manufacturing, construction and installation, operation and maintenance, fuel supply, decommissioning and transmission, as well as factoring in potential job losses.

According to the key findings of the study, , produced by a group including Christian Breyer, professor of solar economy at Finland’s Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT), the global power sector employment will rise to 35 million positions in 2050, up from 21 million in 2015, with renewable supplying 80% of future opportunities.

Professor Christian Breyer said, “The jobs will be rather similar to existing jobs, except that these jobs are sustainable ones, which is not true any more for coal, fossil gas and oil jobs. Most jobs are for the operation and maintenance of power plants, similar to today.”

Additional jobs are created for manufacturing of the technical equipment and in addition, jobs are created for the construction and installation of all these new power plants.

The overall energy sector is expected to support 35 million jobs in 2030, up from 21 million in 2015. The number of people employed by the electricity sector will dip to 30 million after 2030 before recovering to 35 million by 2050. “This is mainly due to large [generation] capacities being replaced and reinvested in, as they would reach end of their lifetimes, with decommissioning contributing around 2% of total jobs by 2050,” the research states.

The study is based on data collected from 13,863 thermal power plants above 50 MW in size, with an aggregate capacity of 4,182 GW. That represents approximately 95.8% of the world’s total thermal power generation capacity, the researchers said. Their best policy scenario, based on the LUT Energy System Transition modeling tool, was developed to assess water consumption for thermal and nuclear power generation for the 2015-50 period.

By 2050, however, the water consumption of the world’s power plant fleet could be decreased by 97.7% and water withdrawal by 95.1%, if the best policy scenario becomes reality. The water that would be not used for power generation could then be diverted into food production or aquatic ecosystems.

The results of the research can potentially help in further studies on global food security to achieve a sustainable water-energy-food nexus.

100 new malls to be built in India by 2022

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New Delhi (NVI): Around 100 new malls are scheduled to come up across the country by 2022-end, according to a research.

The mall developers have remained bullish on the growth potential of organised retail, despite low consumer spending in the recent times, says the research by ANAROCK property consultants.

The demographics of the malls to be built are divided into 3 tiers. In Tier 1, the top 7 cities alone will see 69 new malls, of the total new mall supply. The remaining 31 malls will come up in Tier 2 & 3 cities such as Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Indore, Surat and Nagpur, among others.

Region-wise, west and south Indian cities will see almost equal new supply. West India will get 36 new malls, followed closely by South India with 35 new malls. The North India region will see a supply of 22 new malls spanning over 11 mn sq. ft. area. East India will see a much more modest supply of 7 malls spread.

“2019 was defined by significantly lower retail leasing, so this generous new upcoming mall supply over the next three years testifies to the confidence of private equity investors in Indian retail’s pent-up potential,” says Anuj Kejriwal, MD & CEO, ANAROCK Retail.

“The retail sector drew over $2.8 billion private equity (PE) inflows from 2015-2019-end, 59% by foreign investors alone. Despite overall weak consumer spends, F&B, family entertainment centres, cinemas and beauty/wellness service outlets continue to flourish and demand new retail spaces. Consumer spending will rebound as the government’s concerted intervention to push consumption bear fruit over the upcoming quarters,” Anuj added.

Besides the Tier 1 markets, we are seeing major growth unfolding in Tier 2 & 3 cities. Markets such as Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Nagpur and Indore are seeing high demand from retailers.

Ahmedabad stands out with as many as 6 new malls slated to come up in the city by 2022-end. Both domestic and international brands are gung-ho on Ahmedabad; besides scoring high on consumerism, the city has a growing young population of entrepreneurs, IT professionals and factory employees.

Lucknow presents a similar picture and has plans for 4 new malls to be added by 2022-end. The western cities of Surat and Nagpur will see new supply of 2 malls each.

WFP launches ‘HungerMap’ to monitor real-time food security situation

New Delhi (NVI): In an attempt to end hunger by 2030, the World Food Programme today launched a new tool — HungerMap Live — that will help in monitoring food security in more than 90 countries and issue predictions for places where data is limited.

In simple terms, this will be a digital map to track food-security issues across the globe. The ‘HungerMap Live’ will use artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics to predict and track the magnitude and severity of hunger in more than 90 countries on a real-time basis.

Hunger, malnourishment and food scarcity are some of the serious issues have affected people in the world, especially in third world countries.

Using the latest metrics on conflict, climate shocks, populations and the weather, HungerMap LIVE aims to identify areas that are currently food insecure or are sliding towards food insecurity, says a WFP report.

Where there is limited data available, HungerMap LIVE uses artificial intelligence to supply what have been dubbed ‘nowcasts’—virtually real-time, granular estimates of the food security situation, the report states.

With the IA-enabled digital map, the users will be able to ‘overlay’ information to see how different phenomena are interlinked.

For example, data about conflict can be overlayed with hunger or seen through the prism of disasters or hazards. HungerMap can hone in on how both national and subnational contexts are faring, says the report.

For indicators and metrics, the HungerMap asks simple questions such as, “What do you do when you don’t have enough food or don’t have enough money to buy food?”; and, “Do you know where your next meal will come from?”.

Besides food security, the map will also offer information on other topics like currency exchanges, inflation and nutrition.

Tata Altroz launched in India at Rs 5.29 Lakh

New Delhi (NVI): Tata Motors has launched the all new Altroz premium hatchback in India, with the starting price at Rs. 5.29 Lakh.

The Altroz prices for the petrol variant start at Rs. 5.29 lakh and go up to Rs. 7.69 lakh, while the diesel ranges from Rs. 6.99 lakh to Rs. 9.29 lakh (ex-showroom India).

Tata Altroz is the first vehicle which is developed on the new ALFA modular platform (AMP) and the second vehicle showing the Impact 2.0 design language.

The new Altroz has cruise control, auto headlamps as well as keyless entry with push-button start-stop. Besides, the safety equipment consists of Anti-Locking Braking System (ABS) 9.3 version that prevents wheel lock-up during panic braking.

Simultaneously during the event Tata Motors also facelifted Tiago, Tigor (safest in their category) and the Nexon.

These three cars are not just fully BSVI ready but offer lot more to the aspiring Indian customers.

Additionally, with the introduction of the Altroz and the Nexon, Tata Motors also becomes the first OEM to launch BS VI ready diesel variants in their respective segments.

China confirms coronavirus can be spread by humans

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New Delhi (NVI): Officials in China are racing to contain the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), that has left many people dead and sickened more than 440 people, after it was confirmed the infection can be passed between humans.

The virus can be transmitted between humans, a Chinese government-appointed expert has said, fueling fears about the possibility of a deadly epidemic as millions prepare to travel for the Lunar New Year holiday.

Sun Weidong, Chinese Ambassador to India, tweeted, “China will continue to deepen international cooperation and work in concert with the international community to deal with the epidemic and safeguard regional and global health security.”

Weidong also added, “Upon invitation from WHO, China will join other affected countries at an International Health Regulations Emergency Committee meeting on January 22. Relevant countries, WHO & experts will share information & come up with a science-based evaluation.”

President Xi Jinping has ordered resolute efforts to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus that caused cases of pneumonia. Instructing on the work related to the pneumonia situation, Xi, stressed putting people’s safety and health as the top priority.

Coronavirus cases confirmed worldwide

Around a month after the virus was first identified in Wuhan, it has already spread well beyond mainland China.

In Asia, cases have been detected in Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand and Japan, while authorities in the US confirmed their first case on Tuesday and there have been reports of potential cases in Australia.

Despite initial reports that the virus was unlikely to spread between humans, Chinese health authorities have now said there is “definitely human-to-human transmission.” One patient is believed to have infected as many as 14 medical staff in one hospital, suggesting the disease can be spread far more easily than previously thought.

Army pays homage to soldier killed in Kashmir encounter

(Image Source: @ChinarcorpsIA)

Srinagar (NVI): The Army today paid homage to Sepoy Rahul Rainswal who was killed in an encounter with militants in Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district yesterday.

25-year-old Rahul, who hailed from Champawat in Uttarakhand, was killed in action against militants in Khrew area of Awantipora. He was posted with Rashtriya Rifles.

A J&K Special Police Officer (SPO), identified as Shabaaz Ahmad of Rajouri, was also killed in the gun battle yesterday.

A wreath-laying ceremony with full honours was organised at Srinagar’s Badami Bagh Cantonment.

“#ChinarCorpsCdr & all ranks paid homage to Sepoy Rahul Rainswal in a solemn ceremony at BB Cantt, Srinagar. The gallant soldier made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty in Pulwama. Deepest condolences to the bereaved family” said a tweet by Srinagar-based Chinar Corps.

Both had suffered injuries during the encounter and later succumbed to their injuries, according to reports.

J&K Police said that security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Khrew area of Awantipora yesterday, following information about the presence of militants in the area. The hiding militants fired upon forces leading to the encounter.

Centre’s outreach prog: Ravi Shankar Prasad to visit Kashmir today

Mubashir Bukhari

Srinagar (NVI): As part of Centre’s outreach programme, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will reach Srinagar today for a three day visit.

Around 36 Union Ministers will visit the Union Territory between January 18-24 to spread awareness on the Central Government’s development schemes in the Valley after the abrogation of Article 370 in August, last year.

The Union Law Minister, who will reach this afternnon, is going to innuagrate all women post office and parcel hub, besides launching landline voice plan of BSNL at GPO Srinagar.

On Thursday, the Union Minister will head to Baramulla, where he is going to inaugurate Indoor Sports stadium at Degree College Baramulla.

Later, he will interact with public, municipal councillors and other delegations at Dak Bungalow.

After a night stay at Baramulla, Prasad will head to Sopore on Friday.

He will visit Fruit Mandi, Sopore and NAFED centre.

The Union Minister will also e-inaugrurate ‘back to village’ programme at Degree College Sopore.

Later, he will interact with different delegations there.

Temperature dips in Delhi again 

New Delhi (NVI): Minimum temperature in Delhi today dropped to 7.1 degree celsius from 9.2 degree celsius recorded yesterday.

The maximum temperature today is expected to be around 20.0 degrees celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The weatherman stated that the temperature is expected to dip further over the next few days.

Meanwhile, the overall air quality in the national capital today remained in the “very poor” category.

According to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR),the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital stood at  344 which falls in the  “very poor” category.

The worst affected areas are Dhirpur, Delhi University, Chandni Chowk, Pusa, Lodhi Road, Mathura Road, IGI Terminal 3 and the neighbouring Noida.

Commerce Min to showcase ‘Startup India’ tableau at Republic Day Parade

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New Delhi (NVI): A tableau on ‘Startup India’ theme is going to be one of the main attractions on the Republic Day Parade at Rajpath which will be showcased by Commerce and Industry Ministry. The tableau aims to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.

‘Startups: Reach for the Sky’ tableau will showcase stages of the life-cycle of a startup and the all-round support provided by the government in this journey. The tableau will depict how ideas come to life and how the innovations that emerge positively affect the lives of the citizens of India.

The front of the tableau depicts a creative mind, full of ideas to solve real-world problems. The Startup India Tree, in the middle, represents the different kinds of support given to startups.

The staircase denotes the stages of growth – proving a concept, creating a prototype, preparing a business plan, building a team, launching into markets and eventually scaling up. The wheel at the rear depicts sectors of the economy where Indian entities have driven economic growth and created employment opportunities on a large scale.

The map of India represents the spread of the startup movement, steadily reaching the semi-urban and rural areas. The wheel and the map together depict the width and the depth of the Startup India movement in the country.

Startup India is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, intended to build a strong ecosystem to nurture innovation, drive sustainable economic growth and generate large scale employment opportunities.

Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first global Mega Science Exhibition in Delhi

New Delhi (NVI): India’s first-ever global Mega-Science Exhibition, ‘Vigyan Samagam’, finally reaches Delhi after its roaring success in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for PMO, inaugurated the final edition of the event at National Science Centre today in Delhi.

The exhibition attracts science and technology enthusiasts with a path-breaking contribution in India.

This prestigious science exhibition ‘Vigyan Samagam’ is being jointly organised under the aegis of Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM).

These three organisations will be hosting some of the world’s biggest science projects under one roof. The capital will be marking the completion of this caravan event.

The Exhibition is expected to ignite the minds of students, academia and industry to look for opportunities to pursue fundamental science and research as a strong career option. These projects will help our scientist to work and contribute to international collaborations on fundamental science and research.

The Exhibition has themed galleries consisting of infographics, working models and exhibits, informative audio-visual content, electronic displays and interactive kiosks for each of the Mega Science Projects.

Speaking on the occasion, Jitendra Singh said, “I congratulate all the departments for organising this mega science exhibition. With over 5.50 lakhs visitors at Vigyan Samagam in Mumbai, Bangalore and Kolkata, it is in New Delhi now. It will provide students, academia and industry a great opportunity for cross-fertilisation of ideas. Exposure about different aspects of these projects will help students to choose science as a career option and deriving innovative results.”

Singh also reiterated the importance of Science & Technology in country’s development at ground level and its overall progress in the country.

The inaugural function was also attended by R Chidambaram, Former Principal Scientific Adviser to Government of India (GoI), KN Vyas, Chairman, AEC and Secretary, DAE, Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Paul Ho, Director General, East Asian Observatory, Hawaii, USA and several other dignitaries and luminaries.

Grass-root level outreach programs across the city in schools and colleges to promote this exhibition will also be an integral part of the event. For tech-savvy people, regular updates will be shared across all digital and social media platforms of ‘Vigyan Samagam’.

The exhibition will be open to the public till 20th March 2020.

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