Backhoe loaders inherently come with various potential hazards due to their design and the environments in which they operate.

 Backhoe loaders inherently come with various potential hazards due to their design and the environments in which they operate. 

Struck-by incidents represent a major concern, as pedestrians, other workers, and improperly positioned vehicles may be hit by the moving bucket. Crushing injuries can occur when workers find themselves caught between the machine and stationary objects. The risk of overturning is heightened by factors such as uneven terrain, overloading the bucket, operating on steep slopes, and abrupt directional changes, all of which can lead to serious injuries. Additionally, digging activities carry a significant risk of damaging underground utilities, including gas lines, electrical cables, water pipes, and communication lines. Noise and vibration also pose common hazards.

To reduce these risks, it is essential to implement several safety measures. Regular safety briefings on backhoe loader operations should be conducted. Site inspections must be performed consistently to identify and mitigate potential hazards before work begins. It is crucial to ensure that only trained and authorized personnel operate backhoe loaders. Active monitoring of work practices is necessary to guarantee compliance with safety protocols, and corrective actions should be taken when needed. 

Effective communication between operators and ground personnel regarding potential hazards and changes in site conditions is vital. Thorough pre-start checks of the machinery should be diligently carried out to confirm that all components are functioning properly, with any defects reported immediately. Periodic inspections by safety teams and third-party evaluators should also be standard practice.

From management's dedication to providing necessary resources and establishing a safety-oriented culture, to supervisors enforcing safe work practices and operators following established procedures, a proactive approach to safety can significantly minimize the risks associated with backhoe loaders. It is important to remember that safety is not merely a collection of rules; it is a mindset that everyone must adopt.

To prevent occupational hazards, employers and employees should implement a multi-faceted approach, including risk assessment, hazard identification, training, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

 To prevent occupational hazards, employers and employees should implement a multi-faceted approach, including risk assessment, hazard identification, training, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

1. Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification:

Identify potential hazards: Conduct regular assessments of the workplace to identify potential hazards, such as chemical exposure, noise, physical risks, and ergonomic issues. 

Evaluate the risks: Determine the likelihood and severity of potential harm from each hazard. 

Implement control measures: Develop and implement control measures to eliminate or minimize risks, using the hierarchy of controls (elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE). 

2. Training and Education:

Provide comprehensive training: Educate employees about workplace hazards, safe work practices, and the use of PPE.

Ensure competency: Verify that employees understand and can apply the training they receive.

Regular refresher training: Conduct regular refresher training to reinforce safety knowledge and procedures. 

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Provide appropriate PPE: Ensure that workers have access to and use the necessary PPE for the hazards they face.

Train on PPE use: Teach employees how to properly select, use, maintain, and dispose of PPE.

Regularly inspect PPE: Ensure that PPE is in good working condition and replace it as needed. 

4. Ergonomics:

Assess workstations and tasks:

Evaluate workstations and tasks to identify ergonomic risks, such as repetitive movements, awkward postures, and excessive force.

Implement ergonomic solutions:

Implement solutions to reduce ergonomic risks, such as adjustable workstations, proper lighting, and training on safe lifting techniques. 

5. Health Surveillance:

Implement health surveillance programs: Conduct regular health surveillance programs to monitor employee health and identify potential occupational health problems.

Provide early intervention: Provide early intervention and treatment for occupational health problems. 

6. Management Leadership:

Demonstrate commitment to safety:

Management should demonstrate a strong commitment to safety and health by setting the example and providing the necessary resources.

Promote a safety culture:

Foster a culture where safety is valued and employees feel comfortable reporting hazards and concerns.

Regularly monitor safety performance:

Regularly monitor safety performance and take corrective action when necessary. 

7. Worker Participation:

Involve workers in safety initiatives:

Involve workers in the identification of hazards, the development of safety procedures, and the implementation of safety programs.

Encourage open communication:

Create an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting hazards and concerns. 

8. Establish Prevention and Health Promotion Programs:

Promote health and well-being: Implement programs that promote employee health and well-being, such as wellness programs and stress management initiatives. 

Address hazardous drug exposures: In healthcare settings, implement procedures to prevent hazardous drug exposures. 

Establish health supervision policies: Implement health supervision policies for the workplace. 

Industrial hygiene focuses on identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards to protect worker health and safety, while the Indian Factories Act, 1948, aims to ensure safety and welfare in factories through regulations and inspections.

 Industrial hygiene focuses on identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards to protect worker health and safety, while the Indian Factories Act, 1948, aims to ensure safety and welfare in factories through regulations and inspections. 

Industrial Hygiene:

Definition:

Industrial hygiene is the science dedicated to anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling environmental stressors in the workplace that can cause harm to workers. 

Focus:

It aims to prevent and control workplace health risks and stressors, ensuring a safe and healthy environment. 

Key Areas:

Chemical hazards: Managing exposure to toxic substances. 

Physical hazards: Addressing noise, vibration, temperature extremes, and radiation. 

Biological hazards: Controlling exposure to bacteria, viruses, and other biological agents. 

Ergonomic hazards: Preventing injuries from repetitive motions, awkward postures, and heavy lifting. 

Importance:

Industrial hygiene helps protect workers from various injuries and illnesses, including respiratory conditions, skin diseases, poisoning, hearing loss, and repetitive stress injuries. 

Tools and Techniques:

Industrial hygienists use various tools and techniques, including:

Air sampling: Assessing air quality and identifying contaminants. 

Noise monitoring: Measuring noise levels and identifying potential hazards. 

Ergonomic assessments: Evaluating workspaces and identifying potential ergonomic risks. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Implementing and ensuring proper use of PPE. 

Principles:

The core principles of industrial hygiene are anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control. 

The Factories Act, 1948 (India):

Purpose:

This Act aims to ensure adequate safety measures and promote the health and welfare of workers employed in factories. 

Scope:

It covers a wide range of aspects, including safety, health, and working conditions in factories. 

Key Provisions:

Health: The Act addresses issues like cleanliness, ventilation, temperature, lighting, and drinking water. 

Safety: It includes provisions for fencing machinery, working on or near machinery in motion, and the use of dangerous substances. 

Welfare: The Act addresses issues like latrines, urinals, and first-aid facilities. 

Enforcement:

State Governments and Union Territory Administrations frame rules under the Act and enforce its provisions through their factory inspectorates. 

Relevance to Industrial Hygiene:

The Factories Act provides a legal framework for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions, which aligns with the principles of industrial hygiene. 

Other Labour Laws:

Besides the Factories Act, other labor laws like the Workmen's Compensation Act and the Employees' State Insurance Act are also relevant to industrial health and safety. 

Industrial hygiene is the science and art focused on anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace environmental factors

 Industrial hygiene is the science and art focused on anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace environmental factors that can cause sickness, impaired health, or discomfort among workers. Industrial acts, like the Factories Act, aim to protect workers from industrial and occupational hazards. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Industrial Hygiene:

Definition: Industrial hygiene is a field that focuses on protecting the health and safety of workers in the workplace by identifying, assessing, and controlling workplace hazards. 

Key Principles: The core principles of industrial hygiene include:

Anticipation: Identifying potential hazards before they occur. 

Recognition: Identifying existing hazards in the workplace. 

Evaluation: Assessing the risks associated with identified hazards. 

Control: Implementing measures to eliminate or minimize exposure to hazards. 

Methods: Industrial hygienists use environmental monitoring, analytical methods, and various control methods, including engineering controls, work practice controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE), to manage workplace hazards. 

Examples of Hazards:

Chemical hazards (fumes, vapors) 

Biological hazards (viruses, bacteria) 

Physical hazards (heat, radiation) 

Ergonomic hazards (lifting heavy objects) 

Air contaminants (fibers, aerosols) 

Industrial Acts (e.g., Factories Act):

Purpose: These acts are legal frameworks designed to protect workers employed in factories from industrial and occupational hazards. 

Examples:

The Factories Act, 1948: This Act aims to ensure safe and healthy working conditions in factories. 

Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020: This Act consolidates and amends laws related to occupational safety, health, and working conditions. 

Key Provisions:

Setting standards for workplace safety and health. 

Mandating employers to provide a safe and healthy working environment. 

Establishing inspection and enforcement mechanisms. 

Prescribing penalties for non-compliance. 

ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems, designed to help organizations manage risks and improve their OH&S performance,

 ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems, designed to help organizations manage risks and improve their OH&S performance, ultimately aiming to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Purpose:

ISO 45001 provides a framework for organizations to establish, implement, and maintain an effective OH&S management system. 

Scope:

It's applicable to organizations of all sizes and across various industries, aiming to promote a safe and healthy workplace for employees and other stakeholders. 

Key Elements:

OH&S Policy: Defining the organization's commitment to OH&S. 

Objectives: Setting measurable goals for OH&S performance. 

Planning: Identifying hazards, assessing risks, and developing control measures. 

Implementation: Putting the OH&S management system into practice. 

Operation: Ensuring the OH&S management system functions effectively. 

Auditing: Regularly assessing the OH&S management system's performance. 

Review: Continuously improving the OH&S management system. 

Benefits:

Reduced Accidents and Illnesses: By proactively managing risks, organizations can reduce the incidence of work-related injuries and illnesses. 

Improved Workplace Safety: ISO 45001 helps create a safer and healthier environment for employees and other stakeholders. 

Enhanced Performance: A well-managed OH&S system can lead to increased productivity and efficiency. 

Demonstrated Commitment: Implementing ISO 45001 demonstrates an organization's commitment to OH&S, which can enhance its reputation and attract stakeholders. 

Legal Compliance: ISO 45001 helps organizations comply with relevant health and safety regulations. 

Relationship to OHSAS 18001:

ISO 45001 replaced OHSAS 18001 as the international standard for OH&S management systems. 

In India, occupational health and safety (OSH) is primarily regulated by the Factories Act 1948 and the Mines Act 1952, with the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 consolidating and streamlining related labor laws.

 In India, occupational health and safety (OSH) is primarily regulated by the Factories Act 1948 and the Mines Act 1952, with the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 consolidating and streamlining related labor laws. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Key Legislation and Regulations:

Factories Act, 1948: This act provides for the health, safety, and welfare of workers in factories, including provisions for pre-employment and periodic medical examinations in hazardous areas. 

Mines Act, 1952: This act focuses on the health, safety, and welfare of workers in mines. 

Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020: This code consolidates and replaces 13 labor laws related to safety, health, and working conditions, including the Factories Act, Mines Act, and others. 

Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948: This act provides for social security benefits, including compensation for work-related injuries or illnesses. 

Workmen's Compensation Act, 1923: This act provides compensation for workers who suffer injuries or diseases as a result of their employment. 

Dock Workers (Safety, Health and Welfare) Act, 1986: This act focuses on the safety, health, and welfare of dock workers. 

Other Relevant Acts: The Contract Labor (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970, the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979, and others are also relevant. 

Regulatory Bodies and Their Roles:

Ministry of Labour and Employment:

This ministry is responsible for the overall policy and implementation of OSH regulations. 

Directorate General of Factory Advice Service and Labour Institutes (DGFASLI):

This is a technical arm of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, assisting in formulating national policies on OSH in factories and ports. 

Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS):

This body assists the Ministry in technical aspects of occupational health and safety in mines. 

State Governments:

State governments are responsible for the implementation of OSH regulations within their respective states. 

Occupational Safety Boards:

The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, sets up occupational safety boards at the national and state levels to advise on standards and regulations. 

Key Areas of Focus:

Prevention of occupational risks: This includes identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace.

Health surveillance: Monitoring the health of workers to detect potential health problems early on.

Training in safe working methods: Ensuring that workers are trained on how to work safely.

First aid: Providing adequate first aid facilities in the workplace.

Advising employers: Providing guidance to employers on aspects of occupational health and safety. 

The primary goal of a capacity-building initiative is to enhance the skills, knowledge, and resources of individuals, organizations

 The primary goal of a capacity-building initiative is to enhance the skills, knowledge, and resources of individuals, organizations, or communities to enable them to achieve their goals and objectives more effectively and sustainably. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Empowerment and Sustainability:

Capacity building aims to empower individuals and organizations to take control of their own development and achieve sustainable results. 

Skill Development:

It focuses on developing and strengthening skills, abilities, and knowledge, which can be both hard skills (like technical expertise) and soft skills (like leadership and communication). 

Resource Enhancement:

Capacity building also involves providing access to necessary resources, including financial, technological, and human resources. 

Organizational Growth:

It supports organizational growth and development by strengthening institutional frameworks, processes, and systems. 

Adaptability and Resilience:

Capacity building helps organizations and communities adapt to changing circumstances and become more resilient to challenges. 

Addressing Skill Gaps:

It aims to address skill gaps and knowledge deficiencies that hinder progress and development. 

Improved Performance:

Ultimately, capacity building leads to improved performance, increased efficiency, and better outcomes in various areas, such as sustainable development, climate action, and economic growth. 

A Chief Medical Officer (CMO) is a senior-level, licensed physician who oversees and manages the medical and clinical aspects of a healthcare organization, ensuring quality care, patient safety, and adherence to regulations.

 A Chief Medical Officer (CMO) is a senior-level, licensed physician who oversees and manages the medical and clinical aspects of a healthcare organization, ensuring quality care, patient safety, and adherence to regulations. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Responsibilities:

Leadership and Guidance: Provides leadership and guidance to medical staff, fostering collaboration and improving patient outcomes. 

Policy and Protocol Development: Develops and implements medical policies and protocols. 

Clinical Operations: Oversees the daily operations of medical centers and hospitals, ensuring smooth and efficient healthcare delivery. 

Patient Safety and Quality: Ensures patient safety and quality of care, adhering to healthcare regulations and safety standards. 

Innovation and Technology: Drives innovation and leverages technology to improve healthcare delivery. 

Budget Management: Develops and manages a clinical facility's budget. 

Staff Training and Development: Responsible for the ongoing training and development of physicians and other healthcare providers. 

Hiring and Evaluation: Hires and evaluates physicians and other medical staff. 

Regulatory Compliance: Ensures staff adheres to healthcare regulations and safety standards. 

A Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) fortnightly report & LIST OF STANDARDS FOR REFERENCE

 A Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) fortnightly report & LIST OF STANDARDS FOR REFERENCE

A Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) fortnightly report is a document that provides a summary of the health and safety incidents, environmental incidents, and near misses that have occurred within a given period of time, usually two weeks. It is used to monitor the safety performance of an organization and to identify areas for improvement. The report typically includes the following information: 

1. Number of incidents reported, including injuries, illnesses, environmental incidents, and near misses. 

2. Details of each incident, including date, time, location, type of incident, and a brief description. 3. Root cause analysis of incidents to identify the underlying causes of incidents and prevent recurrence.

 4. Details of any corrective and preventive actions taken in response to incidents, including the responsible person and target completion date. 

5. Details of any HSE training or awareness activities conducted during the reporting period. 

6. A summary of key safety performance indicators, such as the number of lost-time injuries, incident rate, and near-miss rate. 

7. A brief overview of the HSE management system and any updates or changes made during the reporting period. 

The HSE fortnightly report is an important tool for organizations to monitor and improve their safety performance and to ensure that they are meeting their legal and regulatory obligations. It is usually reviewed by senior management, the HSE committee, and other relevant stakeholders. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) fortnightly reports are important for several reasons: 

1. Improved Safety Performance: HSE fortnightly reports help organizations monitor their safety performance, identify areas for improvement, and track the effectiveness of their safety management systems. This helps organizations to reduce the number of incidents, injuries, and illnesses, and improve their overall safety culture. 2. Compliance with Regulations: Many organizations are required by law to maintain records of safety incidents and to report on their safety performance. HSE fortnightly reports help organizations to meet these legal and regulatory obligations and demonstrate their commitment to safety. 

3. Early Identification of Trends: By analyzing the data contained in HSE fortnightly reports, organizations can identify trends in incidents and near misses. This information can be used to develop proactive measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. 

4. Improved Communication: HSE fortnightly reports help to improve communication between different departments and levels within an organization. By sharing information about safety incidents and near misses, organizations can increase awareness and understanding of safety risks, and encourage a culture of reporting and learning from incidents. 

5. Better Decision Making: HSE fortnightly reports provide management with valuable information that can be used to make informed decisions about safety improvement initiatives and to allocate resources effectively. 

Overall, HSE fortnightly reports are an important tool for organizations to monitor and improve their safety performance, to ensure that they are meeting their legal and regulatory obligations, and to promote a culture of safety within their organization.

LIST OF STANDARDS FOR REFERENCE

a) International Standards Organisation (ISO).

b) International Electro-technical Commission (IEC).

c) American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

d) American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

e) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

f) American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).

g) American Welding Society (AWS).

h) Architecture Institute of Japan (AIJ).

i) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

j) National Electrical Manufacturer's Association (NEMA).

k) Japanese Electro-technical Committee (JEC).

l) Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

m) Federal Occupational Safety and Health Regulations (OSHA).

n) Instrument Society of America (ISA).

o) National Electric Code (NEC).

p) Heat Exchanger Institute (HEI).

q) Tubular Exchanger Manufacturer's Association (TEMA).

r) Hydraulic Institute (HIS).

s) International Electro-Technical Commission (IEC) Publications.

t) Power Test Code for Steam Turbines (PTC).

u) Applicable German Standards (DIN).

v) Applicable British Standards (BS).

w) Applicable Japanese Standards (JIS).

x) Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

y) Standards of Manufacturer's Standardization Society (MSS).

z) Bureau of Indian Standards Institution (BIS).

aa) Indian Electricity Rules.

bb) Indian Boiler Regulations (IBR).

cc) Indian Explosives Act.

dd) Indian Factories Act.

ee) Tariff Advisory Committee (TAC) rules.

ff) Emission regulation of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

gg) Pollution Control regulations of Dept. of Environment, Govt. of India

hh) Central Board of Irrigation and Power (CBIP) Publications.

ii) The Air Prevention and Control of Pollution Act.

jj) The Environmental Protection Act

kk) The Public Liability Insurance Act.

ll) The Forest Conservation Act

mm) The Wildlife protection Act.

nn) The EIA Notification, 1994.

oo) IS: 14665-Specification for Electric Traction Lift

pp) Any other statutory Codes/S

tandards/Regulation

With best regards 

Dr. Amar Nath Giri 

PRITHVI Vigyan (PRITHVI) programme

Ministry of Earth Sciences

PRITHVI Vigyan (PRITHVI) programme

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:28PM by PIB Delhi

The various components of ongoing research projects, such as ACROSS, O-SMART, PACER, SAGE, and REACHOUT, under the PRITHVI scheme are inter-dependent. The overarching scheme of PRITHVI holistically addresses all the components to improve the understating of the Earth System Sciences and to provide reliable services for the country. These integrated R&D efforts will help in addressing the grand challenges of weather, ocean, climate, seismological and geological hazards and explore the living and non-living resources for their sustainable harnessing.

Ministry of Earth Sciences supports international collaborative projects of mutual interest under PRITHVI scheme. For the evaluation of collaborative proposals from global scientific institutions, a joint expert committee is set up, which evaluates and recommends the proposal.

Deep Ocean Mission was launched in 2021 with a total budget outlay of Rs 4,077 crores to be implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. It is a multi-disciplinary programme with activities encompassing six verticals, namely a) Development of Technologies for Deep Sea Mining and Manned Submersible, Underwater Vehicles and Underwater Robotics for exploring and harnessing ocean resources, b) Development of Ocean Climate Change Advisory Services, c) Technological innovation for exploration and conservation of deep-sea biodiversity, d) Deep Ocean Survey and Exploration, e) Energy and Freshwater from the Ocean, and f) Advance Marine Station for Ocean Biology. Survey has been conducted at potential sites of multi-metal hydrothermal sulphide mineralization along the Indian Ocean mid-oceanic ridges using autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) in March 2024 at ten locations, of which two locations of active and two locations of inactive vents showing sulphide mineralisation have been identified.

In order to enhance India’s capacity to address climate change impacts through improved understanding of the atmosphere-ocean-pole interactions, a number of activities have been carried out, including augmentation of the existing observational networks on land, poles and in oceans, augmenting the High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility, improving understanding of weather and climate processes and enhancing prediction capabilities by developing improved earth system models, Training and Research at MoES Institutes, as well as Collaborative Research. Further, the Ministry has recently launched Mission Mausam with the goal of making Bharat a "Weather-ready and Climate-smart" nation to mitigate the impact of climate change and extreme weather events and strengthen the resilience of communities.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

*****

Cabinet approves setting up of a new Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex Namrup IV Fertilizer Plant within the existing premises of Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Namrup, Assam

azadi ka amrit mahotsav

Cabinet approves setting up of a new Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex Namrup IV Fertilizer Plant within the existing premises of Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Namrup, Assam

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:09PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has today approved the proposal for setting up of a new Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex of 12.7 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) annual capacity of Urea production within the existing premises of Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Namrup Assam, with an estimated total project cost of Rs.10,601.40 Crore with Debt Equity ratio of 70:30 through a Joint Venture (JV), under the New Investment Policy, 2012 read with its amendments on 7th October, 2014. The tentative overall time schedule for commissioning of Namrup-IV Project is 48 months.

Additionally, the Cabinet also approved the National Fertilizers Limited (NFL)’s equity participation of 18% in relaxation to the limits prescribed in Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) guidelines; and constitution of an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to oversee the process of setting up of Namrup-IV Fertilizer Plant.

In the proposed JV, equity pattern will be as under:

(i) Government of Assam: 40%

(ii) Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL): 11%

(iii) Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL): 13%

(iv) National Fertilizers Limited (NFL): 18%

(v) Oil India Limited (OIL): 18%

BVFCL’s share of equity shall be in lieu of tangible assets.

The project will increase the domestic Urea production capacity in the country especially in the North-Eastern region. It will meet the growing demand of Urea fertilizers of North East, Bihar, West Bengal, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. The establishment of Namrup-IV unit will be more energy efficient. It will also open avenues for additional direct and indirect employment opportunity to the people of the area. It shall help achieve the vision of self-reliance in Urea in the country.

To safely load and unload an autoclave, ensure the cycle is complete, pressure and temperature are safe, and allow the autoclave to cool and vent for 10 minutes before carefully opening the door and unloading items with heat-resistant gloves

 To safely load and unload an autoclave, ensure the cycle is complete, pressure and temperature are safe, and allow the autoclave to cool and vent for 10 minutes before carefully opening the door and unloading items with heat-resistant gloves. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the process:

Before Unloading:

Ensure Cycle Completion:

Make sure the autoclave cycle has finished and the temperature and pressure have returned to a safe range.

Allow Cooling and Venting:

Open the door slowly, no more than 1 inch, to allow residual steam to vent and pressure to normalize within the chamber and containers. Allow the load to stand for 10 minutes to allow steam to clear and trapped air to escape from hot liquids.

Wear Appropriate PPE:

Wear heat-resistant gloves, an apron, and a face shield if removing liquids. 

A gravity displacement autoclave, also known as a gravity autoclave, is a type of steam sterilizer that uses the natural buoyancy of steam to displace air from the chamber, allowing steam to directly contact and sterilize items.

 A gravity displacement autoclave, also known as a gravity autoclave, is a type of steam sterilizer that uses the natural buoyancy of steam to displace air from the chamber, allowing steam to directly contact and sterilize items. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

How it works:

Steam is pumped into the autoclave chamber, which initially contains air. 

Because steam is less dense than air, it rises to the top of the chamber, displacing the air. 

The air is forced out through exhaust valves, allowing the steam to saturate the chamber and sterilize the contents. 

This process is sometimes referred to as "downward displacement" because the cooler, denser air falls to the bottom and is forced out. 

When to use it:

Gravity displacement autoclaves are suitable for sterilizing items that can tolerate direct steam contact, such as laboratory media, water, pharmaceutical products, regulated medical waste, and nonporous articles. 

They are a common and cost-effective option for basic sterilization needs. 

Limitations:

Gravity displacement autoclaves may not be ideal for porous items or items where complete air removal is critical, as the process of air displacement can be less efficient than in vacuum autoclaves. 

They can also take longer to sterilize items compared to vacuum autoclaves. 

Alternative: Vacuum Autoclaves:

Vacuum autoclaves, also known as pre-vacuum autoclaves, use a vacuum system to remove air from the chamber before steam is introduced, ensuring thorough and rapid sterilization, especially for porous items. 

Other Considerations:

The effectiveness of a gravity displacement autoclave depends on factors like temperature, pressure, and exposure time. 

Proper loading and packaging of items are crucial for successful sterilization. 

Regular maintenance and validation of the autoclave are essential to ensure its continued effectiveness. 

Autoclave cycle times vary, but for effective sterilization, a minimum of 30 minutes at 121°C (250°F) in a gravity displacement sterilizer or 4 minutes at 132°C (270°F) in a prevacuum sterilizer is generally recommended.

 Autoclave cycle times vary, but for effective sterilization, a minimum of 30 minutes at 121°C (250°F) in a gravity displacement sterilizer or 4 minutes at 132°C (270°F) in a prevacuum sterilizer is generally recommended. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Gravity Displacement Sterilizer:

Requires a minimum of 30 minutes at 121°C (250°F) for wrapped healthcare supplies. 

These cycles are generally longer as they rely on gravity to displace air and allow steam to penetrate the load. 

Prevacuum Sterilizer:

Requires a minimum of 4 minutes at 132°C (270°F) for wrapped healthcare supplies. 

Prevacuum cycles use a vacuum to remove air, allowing steam to penetrate the load more quickly and efficiently. 

Factors Affecting Cycle Time:

Load Type: The type of items being sterilized (e.g., wrapped instruments, liquids, textiles) can influence the required cycle time. 

Load Volume: Larger volumes of liquids or items may require longer sterilization times. 

Autoclave Type: Different autoclave types (gravity displacement, prevacuum) have varying cycle times and requirements. 

Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the specific sterilization time and temperature recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the items being sterilized. 

General Guidelines:

Liquids: May require longer sterilization times, with some guidelines suggesting 40-60 minutes at 121°C (250°F) depending on the volume. 

Wrapped Items: Generally require longer sterilization times than unwrapped items. 

Unwrapped Items: Can be sterilized in shorter cycles, but it's crucial to ensure the items are fully exposed to the steam. 

Temperature and Pressure:

Autoclaves use saturated steam under pressure to achieve high temperatures, which are necessary for killing microorganisms. 

The pressure helps to maintain the temperature at the required level for sterilization. 

The pressure is typically around 15 psi (pounds per square inch) to achieve a chamber temperature of at least 250°F (121°C). 

To operate an autoclave safely in a laboratory, always wear appropriate PPE, ensure proper loading and sealing, select the correct cycle, and follow specific procedures for opening and unloading,

 To operate an autoclave safely in a laboratory, always wear appropriate PPE, ensure proper loading and sealing, select the correct cycle, and follow specific procedures for opening and unloading, while also being mindful of potential hazards like steam burns and spills. 

Before Operation:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Always wear a lab coat, heat-resistant gloves, eye protection (safety glasses or goggles), and closed-toe shoes. 

Inspect the Autoclave:

Check the door gasket for cracks or bulges, and ensure the drain strainer is clean. 

Prepare Items:

Material Compatibility: Verify that the materials to be autoclaved are safe for high temperature and pressure. 

Glassware: Inspect glassware for cracks before autoclaving. 

Liquids: Use a liquid cycle and leave caps loose or cover with foil to prevent explosions. 

Bagged Items: Loosely tape or tie closed bags, leaving an opening for steam penetration. 

Sharps: Place sharps in a designated container and handle with caution. 

Loading:

Proper Loading: Do not overload the autoclave, and ensure items are not in direct contact with the bottom. 

Secondary Containment: Place individual glassware pieces and infectious waste bags within a heat-resistant secondary container to retain any leakage. 

Placement: Place items on shelves or racks, not directly on the bottom. 

During Operation:

Close the Door: Ensure the door is fully closed and latched before starting the cycle. 

Select the Correct Cycle: Choose the appropriate cycle for the items being sterilized (e.g., gravity, liquid, vacuum). 

Monitor the Cycle: Observe the autoclave for any unusual behavior, such as steam leaks or pressure fluctuations. 

After Operation:

Opening the Autoclave:

PPE: Wear heat-resistant gloves and arm sleeves. 

Slow Opening: Open the door slowly, keeping your head, face, and hands away from the opening. 

Cooling: Allow materials to cool before unloading. 

Unloading:

Careful Handling: Handle hot materials with heat-resistant gloves and tongs if necessary. 

Cooling: Allow materials to cool before transporting. 

Spills: Immediately clean any spilled material or condensate. 

Monitoring:

Use heat-sensitive sterilization indicator tape to confirm the sterilization process was effective. 

Reporting:

Report any problems with the equipment or accidents to the appropriate authorities. 

Carbon dioxide levels in atmosphere reach 800,000-year high

  Carbon dioxide levels in atmosphere reach 800,000-year high

UN meteorological agency says signs of human-induced climate change reached ‘new highs’ last year

Signs of human-induced climate change ‘reached new heights’ last year, according to the UN’s World Meteorological Organization © Artem Priakhin/SOPA/Getty Images

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Attracta Mooney and Jana Tausc6

The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is at its highest point in 800,000 years, according to UN research that found 2024 was likely to have been the hottest year on record and the first to surpass 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. 

In an annual assessment of the climate, the UN’s World Meteorological Organization said signs of human-induced climate change “reached new heights” last year, with record greenhouse gas levels — combined with the El Niño weather phenomenon and other factors — causing record heat. 

“Our planet is issuing more distress signals,” said UN secretary-general António Guterres, urging world leaders to step up climate action. 

His comments came after President Donald Trump launched a sweeping attack on environmental policy, including pulling the US out of the Paris climate agreement for the second time.

The global average surface temperature was 1.55C above the 1850-1900 level, with a 0.13 C margin of uncertainty either way — making last year the warmest in a 175-year observational record, according to the research, which draws together data from member countries and partner agencies.

The record temperatures have led to intensified storms and weather-related disasters, with at least 151 “unprecedented” extreme weather events in 2024.

“Millions of people are increasingly suffering the consequences” of climate change in the form of heatwaves, floods, droughts, storms and rising seas, said Stefan Rahmstorf, head of the research department at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.

“We can only stop the warming trend by getting out of fossil fuels, and we must do it fast,” he said. “Ignoring reality, denying the laws of physics and silencing scientists can only lead to harm, and ordinary people will pay the price for that.”

The latest temperature milestone is not a breach of the Paris agreement’s goal of limiting the long-term temperature rise to 1.5C, which measures the average temperature over decades. 

However, the report suggested long-term warming has accelerated rapidly in recent years, and is now 1.34-1.41C above pre-industrial levels. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said in 2020 that the world had warmed by 1.1C above the 1850-1900 reference period.

“While a single year above 1.5C of warming does not indicate that the long-term temperature goals of the Paris Agreement are out of reach, it is a wake-up call that we are increasing the risks to our lives, economies and to the planet,” said WMO secretary-general Celeste Saulo.

The report also warned of a huge climate impact on the world’s seas, which are warming twice as fast as they were before 2005. The oceans reached a record heat level for the eighth consecutive year in 2024.

Meanwhile, the rate of sea-level rise has doubled over the past three decades. The WMO said it would take hundreds to thousands of years to reverse the this rise and that of ocean warming.

The cryosphere — the frozen parts of the Earth’s surface — is “melting at an alarming rate”, added Saulo, with record glacier loss between 2022 and 2024.

The amount of ice on the world’s seas reached an all-time low early last month and the daily level remained below the previous minimum until mid-March. The Arctic’s sea ice hit a regional record low in the month of February.

The report said carbon dioxide concentration levels were 420 parts per million (ppm) in 2023, the last year for which final data are available — 2.3 ppm more than the year before. The pre-industrial level was 280 ppm, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrative.

Organic matter, often measured in parts per million (ppm) as oxygen (O), is a crucial component of soil and water, composed of carbon-based compounds from living organisms and their remains, playing a vital role in nutrient cycling and soil health

 Organic matter, often measured in parts per million (ppm) as oxygen (O), is a crucial component of soil and water, composed of carbon-based compounds from living organisms and their remains, playing a vital role in nutrient cycling and soil health. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

What is Organic Matter?

Definition:

Organic matter refers to the carbon-based compounds derived from the remains of living organisms (plants and animals) and their byproducts. 

Importance:

It's a vital component of healthy soils and aquatic ecosystems, influencing various physical, chemical, and biological processes. 

Composition:

Organic matter consists of a complex mixture of compounds, including plant residues, microbial products, and other organic substances. 

Types:

Soil Organic Matter (SOM): The fraction of soil that consists of plant or animal tissue in various stages of breakdown (decomposition). 

Particulate Organic Matter (POM): Organic matter that is not dissolved in water and is typically larger than 0.45 μm. 

Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM): Organic matter that is dissolved in water and can pass through a filter with a pore size typically between 0.22 and 0.7 micrometers. 

Functions:

Soil Health: SOM improves soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and aeration. 

Nutrient Cycling: Organic matter plays a key role in the cycling of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. 

Water Quality: In aquatic ecosystems, organic matter can influence water clarity, oxygen levels, and the growth of aquatic organisms. 

Energy Source: Organic matter serves as a food source and energy source for microorganisms and soil animals. 

Measuring Organic Matter:

Total Organic Carbon (TOC):

A common method for measuring organic matter is by determining the total amount of carbon in the sample. 

Organic Matter as Oxygen (O):

While organic matter is primarily measured in terms of carbon, oxygen is also a key component, and in some contexts, organic matter concentration is expressed as oxygen (O) in parts per million (ppm). 

Other Methods:

Other methods for characterizing organic matter include Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. 

Examples of Organic Matter in Different Environments:

Soils:

Healthy agricultural soils typically contain between 1% and 6% organic matter by weight. 

Aquatic Systems:

Dissolved organic matter can be present in concentrations of 1-2 mg/L in the ocean and up to 100 mg/L in some surface waters. 

Atmosphere:

Particulate organic matter (POM) in the atmosphere can affect solar radiation, atmospheric chemistry, and environmental effects. 

Potassium hydroxide is incompatible with strong acids, certain metals (like aluminum, zinc, tin), water, reducing agents, halogenated hydrocarbons, organic chemicals, nitrocarbons, and ammonium salts, potentially leading to violent reactions, fire, or explosions.

 Potassium hydroxide is incompatible with strong acids, certain metals (like aluminum, zinc, tin), water, reducing agents, halogenated hydrocarbons, organic chemicals, nitrocarbons, and ammonium salts, potentially leading to violent reactions, fire, or explosions. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the incompatible chemicals and their potential reactions:

Acids:

Potassium hydroxide reacts violently with strong acids (like hydrochloric, sulfuric, and nitric acid), generating heat and potentially causing explosions. 

Metals:

It reacts with metals like aluminum, zinc, and tin, forming flammable hydrogen gas. 

Water:

Contact with water can generate significant heat, potentially igniting nearby combustible materials. 

Reducing Agents:

Potassium hydroxide is incompatible with reducing agents (like lithium, sodium, aluminum, and their hydrides). 

Halogenated Hydrocarbons:

It reacts with halogenated hydrocarbons (like methylene chloride and trichloroethylene), potentially causing fire or explosion. 

Organic Chemicals:

It reacts with many organic chemicals, including acrolein, acrylonitrile, chlorinated hydrocarbons, maleic anhydride, nitroparaffins, and tetrahydrofuran (containing peroxides). 

Nitrocarbons:

It reacts with nitrocarbons, potentially forming shock-sensitive salts. 

Ammonium Salts:

It reacts with ammonium salts, potentially producing ammonia and generating a fire hazard. 

Oxidizing Agents:

It is incompatible with oxidizing agents. 

Specific Examples:

1,2-dichloroethylene and potassium hydroxide can form chloroacetylene, which is explosive and spontaneously flammable. 

Reaction between n-nitrosomethylurea and potassium hydroxide in n-butyl ether can result in an explosion due to the formation of diazomethane. 

Potassium persulfate and potassium hydroxide can ignite a polyethylene liner of a container by release of heat and oxygen.

Potassium hydroxide gel is a corrosive substance that can cause severe burns and damage to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Always wear protective equipment, avoid contact, and follow safety procedures for handling and disposal. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the safety information:

Hazards:

Corrosive: Potassium hydroxide is a strong alkali that can cause severe burns and damage to skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Ingestion: Ingestion can cause severe burning and pain in the mouth, throat, and stomach.

Inhalation: Inhalation of mists can cause irritation and damage to the respiratory tract.

Skin Contact: Prolonged or repeated contact can cause skin damage and burns.

Eye Contact: Contact with the eyes can cause severe damage and blindness. 

Safety Precautions:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing. 

Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation when handling potassium hydroxide. 

Avoid Contact: Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. 

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from incompatible materials. 

Spills: Absorb spills with a non-combustible material and dispose of properly. 

First Aid:

Skin Contact: Immediately flush the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. 

Eye Contact: Immediately flush the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, holding the eyelids apart. 

Ingestion: Rinse the mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention. 

Inhalation: Remove the person to fresh air and seek medical attention. 

Additional Information:

Fire: Fight fire with normal precautions from a reasonable distance. Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full chemical protective clothing. 

Environmental Precautions: Do not allow spills to enter drains or waterways. 

Disposal: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations.  

Liquid ammonia is incompatible with various chemicals, including halogens, strong acids, oxidizing agents, and certain metals, potentially leading to violent reactions, fires, or explosions.

 Liquid ammonia is incompatible with various chemicals, including halogens, strong acids, oxidizing agents, and certain metals, potentially leading to violent reactions, fires, or explosions. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of incompatible chemicals:

Halogens:

Ammonia reacts violently with halogens like fluorine, chlorine, and bromine. 

Strong Acids:

Ammonia reacts violently with strong acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid. 

Oxidizing Agents:

Ammonia is incompatible with oxidizing agents like peroxides, permanganates, chlorates, and nitrates. 

Certain Metals and their Salts:

Ammonia can react with heavy metals and their salts, forming explosive compounds and flammable hydrogen gas. 

Other Incompatible Chemicals:

Cholorformates 

Cyanides 

Dimethyl sulfate 

Nitrosyl chloride 

Chromyl chloride 

Triooxygen dichloride 

Nitrogen dioxide 

Nitrogen trichloride 

Bromine pentafluoride 

Chlorine trifluoride 

Calcium hypochlorite 

Liquid ammonia, a colorless, pungent-smelling gas compressed into a liquid state, is a versatile chemical used in fertilizers, refrigeration, and various industrial processes, but it's also a hazardous substance requiring careful handling. 

Key Properties and Uses:

Appearance: Colorless, pungent-smelling gas that becomes a clear liquid under pressure. 

Chemical Formula: NH3 

State: Exists as a gas at room temperature and pressure, but is commonly stored and transported as a compressed liquid. 

Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forming ammonium hydroxide (a weak base). 

Uses:

Fertilizers: A primary component in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers. 

Refrigeration: Used as a refrigerant in industrial and commercial cooling systems. 

Industrial Chemicals: A precursor to many other chemicals, including plastics, dyes, textiles, detergents, and explosives. 

Household Cleaners: Found in some household cleaning products in lower concentrations. 

Hazards:

Corrosive: Concentrated ammonia can cause severe burns to skin and eyes. 

Toxic: Inhalation of ammonia gas can cause respiratory irritation and, at high concentrations, can be fatal. 

Frostbite: Contact with the unconfined liquid can cause frostbite. 

Flammable: While not highly flammable, ammonia gas can burn within certain vapor concentration limits, and containers may explode when exposed to high heat. 

Incompatible Materials: Ammonia is incompatible with certain oxidizing agents, cyanides, and some metals. 

Storage and Handling:

Stored and shipped in pressurized containers with safety devices. 

Must be handled with proper ventilation and safety equipment. 

Empty containers can still be hazardous and should be handled with care. 

Natural Occurrences: Ammonia occurs naturally in the environment as a result of the breakdown of organic matter and animal waste. 

Electrical Safety: 10 Key Points to Remember

 Electrical Safety: 10 Key Points to Remember

Electricity is a powerful tool, but safety must always come first! Here are 10 essential electrical safety tips to follow:

1) Use safety circuits

2) Inspect electrical equipment regularly

3) Keep electrical equipment dry

4) Follow Lockout/ Tagout (LOTO) procedures

4) Avoid overloading circuits

5) Ensure proper grounding

6) Stay cautious around high voltage areas

7) Maintain good housekeeping✓

8) Invest in ongoing training

9) Report electrical hazards immediately!

• Safety is everyone's responsibility-stay alert, stay safe!

How to Prevent Workplace Accidents???

Safety First !!!🥇

How to Prevent Workplace Accidents???

Accidents occur for many reasons. Understanding why an accident happens is the first step in prevention. 

Unsafe acts cause four times as many accidents and injuries as unsafe conditions. This list will cover seven behaviors that can cause workplace accidents.

1. Over Confidence: Having confidence is a good thing but being over confident can be dangerous. Thinking "it can never happen to me" is an attitude that can lead to improper procedures or methods used while working.

2. Ignoring Safety Procedures: Failing to observe safety procedures can endanger all workers. Rules and procedures are in place for a reason and it's important for them to be followed. Having a casual attitude about safety rules leads to danger.

3. Shortcuts: As we try to be more efficient we tend to take shortcuts that can lead to unsafe conditions and increased chances for injuries. Will implementing a time-saving idea compromise safety? Is it worth it?

4. Not having complete instructions when starting a task: Many times a worker will be shy or intimidated about asking for better instructions and will just try to "wing it" instead of knowing exactly how to do things correctly. New employee training is a must to prevent accidents. Don't just assume that everyone knows how to do his or her job correctly.

5. Poor Housekeeping: A well maintained work area sets a standard for all. Poor housekeeping creates all types of hazards and sets the stage for accidents. Good housekeeping encourages pride and a safe environment.

6. Mental Distractions: Doing a task safely requires mental attention. Things that distract a person from work creates a hazard and can pull focus away from tasks at hand. It's important to stay focused and leave problems at home. Even casual conversations can be distracting.

7. Pre-Planning: Not thinking through a process to complete a task can be a hazard. Being hasty and just starting on a job without giving a thought to what how to go about it can be asking for problems. Remember the saying, "Plan Your Work and Work Your Plan."

Safety First !!! 💯

CLASS F OR CLASS K - These are fires involving cooking fats and oils. The high temperature of these types of fats and oil when on fire far exceeds that of other flammable liquids which means that normal fire extinguishers should not be used.

CLASS F OR CLASS K - These are fires involving cooking fats and oils. The high temperature of these types of fats and oil when on fire far exceeds that of other flammable liquids which means that normal fire extinguishers should not be used.

In order to effectively fight a fire you need to know how it was started and what is making it burn. Often the fuel is important and dictates how the flames should be fought. Class K fires burn a specific type of fuel, namely cooking fat and oils, and can spread quickly, causing damage and potential injury.

Class K flames are technically a subclass of class B flames, since it involves flammable liquid. However, because of some unique characteristics related to this type of fire, it was designated separately and requires a distinct battling method.

Class K FiresWhat Types of Cooking Substances Are Dangerous?

Heat is important when cooking, and oils and fats are often used to create that heat as they can be brought to a high temperature quickly. These highly flammable substances are used to fry and sauté foods, and when they catch fire, they must be brought under control immediately. Some examples of cooking oils and fats include:

Vegetable oils like canola, corn, and safflower

Olive oil

Butter

Margarine

Lard

Bacon grease

Class K fires are most often caused by cooking oils and fat that burst into flame on the stovetop, in the oven or on the grill. There is also a risk of causing such a fire when these substances are overheated in the microwave.

Fighting Class K Fires

Since this class of fire burns hotter than typical class B fires, the extinguishing methods used for B flames will not work on K flames. Some of the fire extinguishers rated for use with this type of cooking fire have a hood, which serves to cut off the oxygen and smother the flames.

Splashes of extremely hot cooking oil or fat can cause serious burns, even life-threatening injuries. Anyone attempting to put out the class K flames on their own should be well aware of the dangers. A firefighter must approach such a fire fully protected.

Firefighting Equipment

Saponification is the quickest and most effective way to fight class K fires. Fire extinguishers rated for use with class K dangers always contain a wet chemical extinguishing agent which turns the cooking oil and fat that is serving as fuel to soap. The substance is non-combustible and actually absorbs the heat from the flames, eliminating or reducing that element necessary for a fire to continue to burn. These extinguishers are often equipped with a physical component resembling a hood, which can be placed directly over the flames – if they are small enough – cutting off the oxygen and stifling the fire.

Protecting your Home or Business against Class K Fires

Industrial and commercial buildings that are equipped with kitchens need to be well-equipped against the dangers of class K fires. Businesses such as restaurants and cafeterias must follow the local building codes when designing and equipping their kitchens, and ensure that all staff members are fully trained in how to properly respond to a fire of any class.

In a residential setting, class K fires usually start in the kitchen, and can spread to cause major damage and injury. Having a properly rated fire extinguisher is important, and every member of the household should know the effective response to this type of fire.

FIRE - SAFETY FIRST!!! <3

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: TAP WATER AND SANITATION CAMPAIGN

Ministry of Jal Shakti

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PARLIAMENT QUESTION: TAP WATER AND SANITATION CAMPAIGN

Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 4:53PM by PIB Delhi

Government of India is committed to make provision for safe & potable tap water supply in adequate quantity, of prescribed quality and on a regular & long-term basis to all rural households in the country. Towards this end, the Government of India launched the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), to be implemented in partnership with State/ UTs, in August 2019. Government of India supplements the efforts of State/UTs by providing technical and financial assistance under JJM. For urban areas, the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), launched on 25.06.2015, focuses on ensuring universal household access to water and improving sewage treatment infrastructure. The Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) was later introduced as AMRUT 2.0 on 01.10.2021, for the period 2021-26, aiming to make cities self-reliant and water-secure.

Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) [SBM(G)] was launched on 2nd October, 2014 with the aim to eliminate open defecation in rural areas by 2nd October, 2019. SBM(G) has been implemented as Jan Andolan. Over 10 crore Individual household Latrines (IHHLs) constructed under Phase-I of SBM(G) and all the villages of the country declared themselves Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2nd October, 2019. Having achieved the ODF status, SBM(G) Phase-II is being implemented during the period from 2020-21 to 2025-26 with the aim to sustain ODF status and Solid and Liquid Waste Management (SLWM). Ensuring the success of water supply and sanitation initiatives requires the adoption of innovative strategies and advanced technologies. Several measures have been implemented, including the use of Hydro Geo-Morphological (HGM) maps for identifying groundwater sources, Geographical Information System (GIS) technology to locate existing water sources, and IoT-based monitoring systems for optimizing water distribution. These technological advancements allow for real-time monitoring, leak detection, and efficient water supply management. In regions experiencing severe water scarcity, the government has actively promoted rainwater harvesting and artificial groundwater recharge through programs like Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain Campaign and Atal Bhujal Yojana. Additionally, efforts have been made to encourage water-saving technologies in agriculture, such as drip irrigation and sprinkler systems, to ensure sustainable water usage. A key component of AMRUT 2.0 is the Technology Sub-Mission, which encourages start-ups and private entrepreneurs to develop and implement innovative, environmentally friendly solutions for water treatment, distribution, and water body rejuvenation.

The Operational Guidelines of Jal Jeevan Mission mandates the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), Govt. of India to carry out regular functionality assessment, evaluation and impact assessment. For the purpose, DDWS shortlists a third party through open tendering process. In such assessment(s), State/UTs are given a functionality score on the basis of functionality of samples on quantity, quality and regularity of water supply to rural households. The reports are shared with State/UTs to undertake measures for mid-course corrections to enhance the functionality of tap connections. For assessment and monitoring of work done under AMRUT in the States, there is a provision for setting up Independent Review and Monitoring Agencies (IRMAs) in all the State/UTs. For sanitation, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) conducts Swachh Survekshan Grameen (SSG) through a third-party survey agency to carry out the assessment of household sanitation parameters, including Faecal Sludge Management (FSM), biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste management, and Grey Water Management (GWM). As part of the SSG, States/UTs are ranked on the basis of their performance attained on key quantitative and qualitative Swachhata parameters.

 In addition to this, Operational Guidelines of SBM(G) Phase-II prescribe that the States/UTs may conduct periodical evaluation studies on the implementation of Phase II of SBM(G) and these evaluations could be used for course correction and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme. Further, the Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) of SBM(G) captures progress of the States/UTs against SBM(G) activities viz. construction of Individual and Community/Household Toilets, SLWM infrastructure, IEC, Capacity Building and administration related activities, including financial progress.

The mechanism of online monitoring is also in place for these programmes, such as JJM–Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) and JJM–Dashboard for JJM for monitoring of progress under the programme across the country.

As on 13.03.2025, as reported by the State, out of total 62.55 lakh rural households in Jharkhand, 34.25 lakh (54.76%) rural households have been provided functional household tap connections (FHTCs) under Jal Jeevan Mission.

Out of 29,322 villages in Jharkhand, 26,577 villages have been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus (Aspiring -18,964, Rising-514, Model-7,099) so far. Also, 8,878 villages have been covered with Solid Waste Management (SWM) and 26,487 villages have been covered with Grey Water Management (GWM) in Jharkhand so far.

This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR JAL SHAKTI, SHRI V. SOMANNA in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

*******

Sarbananda Sonowal Virtually Flags Off Electrolysers for Green Hydrogen Plant in Kandla

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

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Sarbananda Sonowal Virtually Flags Off Electrolysers for Green Hydrogen Plant in Kandla

Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 8:01PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant step towards energy transition and achieving the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, virtually flagged off electrolysers for the upcoming Green Hydrogen plant at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla port, today.

 

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, "This flagging-off marks a key milestone in DPA Kandla's mission to emerge as India's leading Green Hydrogen hub. Under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we are driving advanced green energy initiatives, reaffirming our commitment to decarbonising the maritime sector and setting a national benchmark for sustainable port operations."

 

*Key Highlights of the Initiative:*

 

- *Indigenous Technology*: The electrolysers were manufactured by L&T under the "Make-in-India" initiative for a 1 MW Green Hydrogen Plant being set up at DPA, Kandla.

- *Production Capacity*: The Green Hydrogen Plant at DPA Kandla will be operational by July 2025, producing 18 kg of hydrogen per hour, making it India's first port-based plant using indigenous electrolysers.

- *Expansion Plans*: DPA plans to expand into Green Ammonia production, advancing India's Net Zero goals. The initiative aims to establish a port-operated 1 MW Green Hydrogen Plant, with plans to scale it up to 10 MW in the future.

 

The flag-off ceremony was attended by Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways; Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman, DPA; and Shri Derek M. Shah, Senior Vice President & Head, L&T Green Energy. The electrolysers were flagged off from L&T's Hazira manufacturing facility.

***

IMPACT OF 10 GWh CAPACITY PROJECT

Ministry of Heavy Industries

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IMPACT OF 10 GWh CAPACITY PROJECT

Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 3:24PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) administers a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme namely “National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage”. Under the scheme, the total outlay is ₹18,100 Crore for a capacity of 50 GWh for a period of 5 years after gestation period of 2 years. A total of 40GWh in two tranches has been allocated to four PLI beneficiaries. Further, as per recommendation of EGoS in July 2024, MHI initiated the process for finalizing bid documents for balance 10 GWh capacity for Grid Scale Stationary Storage (GSSS) applications in consultation with Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The details of the scheme may be seen at:https://heavyindustries.gov.in/pli-scheme-national-programme-advanced-chemistry-cell-acc-battery-storage. The objectives of the PLI ACC scheme are:

Promoting indigenous manufacturing

Enhancing cost competitiveness

Boosting clean energy and sustainability

Encouraging investment and innovation

Developing a robust supply chain and generating employment and economic growth.

Fostering local manufacturing to decrease dependence on imported batteries, supporting the broader goal of self-reliance in the energy sector.

The "National Mission on Transformative Mobility and Battery Storage" is a government initiative in India which, inter-alia, aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and battery storage technologies by promoting manufacturing of Giga Scale battery manufacturing units.

The scheme is creating ACC manufacturing ecosystem in the country by reducing battery costs, making EVs more affordable and accelerating adoption, enhancing energy storage solutions for renewable integration, improving grid stability and energy efficiency.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

****

India’s threefold NAP priorities - Strengthening Knowledge Systems, Reducing Exposure to Climate Risks and Enhancing Adaptive Capacity: MoS Shri Singh

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

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Union Minister of State Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh addresses the Inaugural Session of the National Workshop on India’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) on Climate Change

Adaptation is ‘Not Just an Option but an Absolute Necessity’ - a continuous cycle of planning, implementing, learning and refining: Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh

India’s threefold NAP priorities - Strengthening Knowledge Systems, Reducing Exposure to Climate Risks and Enhancing Adaptive Capacity: MoS Shri Singh

Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

“The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) we are building today will be a cornerstone of our march towards Viksit Bharat”, said Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, in his inaugural address today at the national level workshop on National Adaptation Plan on Climate Change. The workshop was organised by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, under the ongoing Green Climate Fund Readiness Programme.

The workshop focused on engaging with stakeholders in identifying sectoral adaptation priorities and understanding regional vulnerabilities across nine key sectors namely water, agriculture, disaster management & infrastructure resilience, health, forests, ecosystems & biodiversity, poverty alleviation & livelihoods, traditional knowledge & heritage and adaptation resourcing covered under India’s upcoming first National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The consultation also explored cross-cutting themes, including gender, traditional knowledge, and technology in adaptation strategies.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Singh said that under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has taken an important role in tackling Climate Change. He stated that now the country has emerged as an inspiration for nations around the world when it comes to tackling global issues pertaining to climate action, environmental protection, and sustainable development. He also stated that India’s ambition to achieve developed nation status by 2047 is fundamentally anchored in the vision of inclusive and sustainable development.

Shri Singh mentioned that India’s National Adaptation Plan is not just a document but a dynamic process, evolving with time, driven by science and innovation, and guided by grassroot realities. He highlighted that it will be a blueprint for how we integrate adaptation into national development plans and policies across economic sectors, ensuring a systematic and long-term approach. It will contribute to building resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate-related risks across various sectors such as agriculture, water resources, the Himalayan region, coastal regions, health, disaster management etc., the Minister added.

The Minister further emphasised that India aims to develop a comprehensive and inclusive Adaptation Plan that aligns with sustainable development goals and ensures climate resilience for all regions and sectors. He added that NAP priorities identified for India are threefold: Strengthening knowledge systems, reducing exposure to climate risks and enhancing adaptive capacity. Shri Singh stressed that Adaptation is not just an option but an absolute necessity. Rather than being a one-time exercise, it’s a continuous cycle - planning, implementing, learning and refining, the Minister added.

Secretary (MoEFCC), Shri Tanmay Kumar, emphasized that India’s adaptation plan would be guided by the latest climate data, validated research & risk assessments and aligned with existing policies and programmes. He also mentioned that India’s NAP will be based on the eight key principles i.e., Country-driven, Integrated & Multi-sectoral, Gender-responsive, Participatory & Transparent, Inclusive of Vulnerable Groups, Communities & Ecosystems, Science-driven & Informed by Traditional Knowledge, Iterative & Adaptive and through a coordinated ‘Whole of Government’ and ‘Whole of Society’ approach. He also emphasized upon the ‘Mission LiFE’, launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, for adopting environment-friendly lifestyle as an important step in combating climate change. The role of ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’, launched by the Prime Minister, was also emphasized in combating Climate Change.

Speaking at workshop, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India, Dr. Angela Lusigi, emphasized the critical role of the NAP in embedding climate adaptation across key sectors in India. She also highlighted that the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) is more than a policy document - it serves as a strategic roadmap to build climate resilience and ensure sustainable development.

Additional Secretary (MoEFCC), Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, mentioned that India’s NAP will guide our adaptation & resilience priorities and actions moving forward. Economic Advisor (MoEFCC), Ms. Rajasree Ray, presented India’s ongoing NAP process, vulnerability and adaptation needs.

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Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews Mission Mausam and Other Projects of IMD, Pushes for Enhanced Weather Forecasting

Ministry of Earth Sciences

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Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews Mission Mausam and Other Projects of IMD, Pushes for Enhanced Weather Forecasting

India to Expand Doppler Radar Network for Better Weather Forecasting: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Dr. Jitendra Singh Directs IMD to Boost Public Outreach of Weather Alerts via Social Media

Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:41PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, reviewed the progress of key meteorological initiatives, including "Mission Mausam", pushed for enhanced weather forecasting and assessed the status of Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) installations across India.

Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of real-time and impact-based weather forecasting, emphasizing that no weather hazard should go undetected or unpredicted. The expanding Doppler Weather Radar network of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) was a key highlight, with the Minister reviewing site selections for upcoming installations in Bengaluru, Raipur, Ahmedabad, Ranchi, Guwahati, Port Blair, and other locations.

 

With 73 Doppler Weather Radars set to be operational by 2025-26 and 126 by 2026, the network aims to enhance India’s capability in tracking extreme weather events, benefiting disaster response teams and the general public, the Minister was informed.

The Minister also instructed IMD to strengthen public outreach by leveraging social media for disseminating timely weather forecasts and warnings. Stressing the need for better citizen engagement, he directed officials to explore digital platforms and mobile applications such as Mausam, Meghdoot, and Umang, which provide weather updates and agro meteorological advisories.

Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to modernizing weather monitoring systems, highlighting the role of satellite meteorology, numerical weather prediction models, and radar-based forecasting in enhancing accuracy. The meeting also reviewed financial allocations and pending approvals for weather infrastructure projects, ensuring steady progress in India’s meteorological advancements.

With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, the government’s focus on expanding radar coverage and improving dissemination mechanisms marks a crucial step in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. The discussion at the review meeting set the stage for faster implementation of weather monitoring projects, reinforcing India’s leadership in climate resilience and disaster preparedness.

The review meeting, attended by Secretary, MoES, Dr. M. Ravichandran, DG, IMD Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra and other senior IMD officials, focused on improving weather forecasting accuracy and expanding outreach to the public.

Under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content

Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

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Under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content

The Government has provided special packages on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) over and above the NBS subsidy rates on need basis to ensure smooth availability of DAP at affordable prices to farmers

Urea is provided to the farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price; MRP of 45 kg bag of urea is Rs. 242 per bag (exclusive of charges towards neem coating and taxes as applicable) which has remained unchanged since 01.03.2018 to till date

Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 4:34PM by PIB Delhi

The Government has implemented Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme w.e.f. 01.04.2010 for Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. Under the NBS scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy, decided on an annual/bi-annual basis, is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content including Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP). Under NBS scheme, The P&K sector is decontrolled, fertilizer companies are allowed to fix MRP at reasonable levels which is monitored by the Government. The fertilizer companies manufacture/import fertilizers as per the market dynamics.

Further, in order to ensure smooth availability of DAP at affordable prices to farmers, the Government has provided special packages on DAP over and above the NBS subsidy rates on need basis. Recently, in 2024-25, due to geo-political situation, adversely affecting the viability of procurement of DAP by the fertilizer companies, the Government has approved One-time special package on DAP beyond the NBS rates on actual PoS (Point of Sale) sale of DAP for the period from 01.04.2024 till 31.12.2024 @ ₹ 3500 per MT which has now been extended till 31.03.2025 to ensure sustainable availability of DAP at affordable price to the farmers. Further, the guidelines on evaluation of reasonableness of MRPs fixed by the P&K Fertilizer companies also ensure availability of fertilizers at affordable prices to farmers across the country including Odisha.

Urea, is provided to the farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP). The MRP of 45 kg bag of urea is Rs.242 per bag (exclusive of charges towards neem coating and taxes as applicable) and the MRP has remained unchanged since 01.03.2018 to till date. The difference between the delivered cost of urea at farm gate and net market realization by the urea units is given as a subsidy to the urea manufacturer/importer by the Government of India. Accordingly, all farmers are being supplied urea at subsidized rates.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) under the All India Coordinated Research Project on ‘Long-term Fertilizer Experiments’ has assessed the impact of long-term use of chemical fertilizers in different soil types (fixed locations) under dominant cropping systems. Investigations carried out over five decades at fixed sites have indicated that there is no harmful effect of chemical fertilizers on soil fertility with balanced and judicious use. However, imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers coupled with low addition of organic matter over years may cause multi nutrient deficiencies vis-à-vis decline in soil health. Continuous use of nitrogenous fertilizer alone had deleterious effects on soil health and crop productivity showing deficiencies of other nutrients. The investigation over the last few decades indicated that even in the NPK fertilized system, nutritional disorders in terms of deficiency of micro and secondary nutrients surfaced after a few years affecting soil health and crop productivity. Highest decline in crop yield was observed in plots receiving only urea. In case of drip irrigation (fertigation), comparable crop yield can be obtained with less amount of water and fertilizers due to higher water and nutrient use efficiencies.

ICAR recommends soil test based balanced and integrated nutrient management through conjunctive use of both inorganic and organic sources (manure, bio-fertilizers etc.) of plant nutrients for judicious use of chemical fertilizers and to improve soil health. The ICAR also imparts training, organizes FLDs etc. to educate farmers on all these aspects. All these measures reduce chemical fertilizer use in the country.

Further, the Government has approved the Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/MT to promote organic fertilizers, i.e. manure produced at plants under GOBARdhan initiative covering different Biogas/CBG support schemes/programmes of stakeholder Ministries/Departments such as Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), ‘Waste to Energy’ programme of Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) of Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), etc. with total outlay of Rs. 1451.84 crore (FY 2023-24 to 2025-26), which includes a corpus of Rs. 360 crore for research gap funding, etc.

This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.

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MITIGATING THE IMPACT OF EXTREME CLIMATE

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

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MITIGATING THE IMPACT OF EXTREME CLIMATE

Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi

As per the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), the primary responsibility for disaster management, including disbursal of relief assistance on ground level, rests with the State Governments concerned. The State Governments undertake relief measures in the wake of natural calamities, from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) already placed at their disposal, in accordance with Government of India's approved items and norms. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments and provides requisite logistics and financial support. Additional financial assistance is provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), as per laid down procedure, in case of disaster of 'severe nature', which includes an assessment based on the visit of an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT).

Further, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) along with weather index based Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) provide a comprehensive insurance cover against failure of the crop to farmers suffering crop loss/damage arising out of unforeseen natural calamities.

The PMFBY/RWBCIS scheme is being implemented on Area Approach basis and claims are worked out as per designated formula based on the season end yield data submitted by the concerned State Government irrespective of reasons of crop loss/ claims. Claims are required to be paid within 21 Days from calculation of claims on NCIP irrespective of whether Insurance Companies have raised the demand for 2nd or final tranche of premium subsidy and whether the verification and Quality Check has been completed by Insurance Companies. Failing which, penalty shall be auto calculated and levied as per relevant provisions through NCIP.

Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme improves water use efficiency through Micro Irrigation technologies i.e. drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Rainfed Area Development (RAD) scheme focuses on Integrated Farming System (IFS) for enhancing productivity and minimizing risks associated with climatic variability. Under RAD, crops/ cropping system is integrated with activities like horticulture, livestock, fishery, agro-forestry, apiculture etc. to enable farmers, not only in maximizing farm returns for sustaining livelihood but also to mitigate the impacts of drought, flood or other extreme weather events. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Agroforestry & National Bamboo Mission also aim to increase climate resilience in agriculture.

The Government has set up National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008, which provide an overarching policy framework for climate action in the country. The NAPCC outlines a national strategy to enable the country to adapt to climate change and enhance ecological sustainability. One of the National Missions under NAPCC is the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) which evolves and implements strategies to make agriculture more resilient to the changing climate.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has launched a flagship network project namely National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA). The project conducts studies on the impact of climate change on agriculture including crops, livestock, horticulture and fisheries and also develops and promotes climate resilient technologies in agriculture for vulnerable areas of the country. The outputs of the project help the regions to cope with extreme weather conditions like droughts, floods, frost, heat waves, etc. During last 10 years (2014-2024), a total of 2593 varieties have been released by ICAR, out of these 2177 varieties have been found tolerant to one or more biotic and/or abiotic stresses. Risk and vulnerability assessment of agriculture to climate change has been carried out at district-level for 651 predominantly agricultural districts as per Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) protocols. Out of 310 districts identified as vulnerable, 109 districts have been categorized as 'very high' and 201 districts as 'highly vulnerable. District Agriculture Contingency Plans (DACPs) for these 651 districts have also been prepared to address weather aberrations and recommending location specific climate resilient crops and varieties and management practices for use by the State Departments of Agriculture. For enhancing the resilience and adaptive capacity of farmers to climate variability, the Concept of "Climate Resilient Villages" (CRVs) has been initiated under NICRA. Location-specific climate resilient technologies have been demonstrated in 448 CRVs of 151 climatically vulnerable districts covering 28 states/UTs for adoption by farmers. ICAR through its NICRA project, creates awareness about impact of climate change in agriculture among farmers. Capacity building programmes are being conducted to educate the farmers on various aspects of climate change for wider adoption of climate resilient technologies.

This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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A UV spectrophotometer's spare parts include the light source, monochromator (wavelength selector), sample compartment (cuvette holder), detector, and signal display system.

 A UV spectrophotometer's spare parts include the light source, monochromator (wavelength selector), sample compartment (cuvette holder), detector, and signal display system. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Light Source:

This provides the UV and visible light needed for the measurement. Common types include: 

Tungsten-halogen lamp: For visible and near-UV light. 

D2 lamp (deuterium lamp): For UV light. 

Monochromator:

This selects the desired wavelength of light. It can be based on: 

Diffraction gratings: These separate light into different wavelengths. 

Filters: Absorption, interference, or cutoff filters can be used to select specific wavelengths. 

Sample Compartment (Cuvette Holder):

This holds the sample for analysis. 

Cuvettes: These are the small, optical containers used to hold the sample solution. 

Detector:

This converts the light signal into an electrical signal. Common types include: 

Photomultiplier tube (PMT): Detects very weak light signals. 

Photodiode: Converts light into an electrical current. 

Signal Display System:

This amplifies and displays the signal from the detector. 

Demineralized (DM) water, also known as demiwater, is characterized by low conductivity (typically 0.1-1.0 µS/cm)

 Demineralized (DM) water, also known as demiwater, is characterized by low conductivity (typically 0.1-1.0 µS/cm) and low total dissolved solids (TDS) (less than 10 mg/L) due to the removal of minerals and salts. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of DM water quality:

What is DM Water? 

DM water is produced by removing minerals and salts (ions) from regular tap water. 

This process is achieved through techniques like ion exchange or distillation. 

Key Characteristics: 

Low Conductivity: DM water has a very low electrical conductivity, typically ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 µS/cm. 

Low TDS: The total dissolved solids (TDS) content is also very low, usually below 10 mg/L. 

Neutral pH: DM water has a neutral pH, typically between 6.5 and 7.5. 

Applications: 

DM water is used in various applications, including: 

Rinse water 

Boiler water 

Cooling water 

Test water 

Battery water 

Industrial processes 

Aquariums 

Comparison to Deionized (DI) Water: 

While both DM and DI water are highly purified, DI water is produced using more advanced methods like mixed-bed resins or electro-deionization (EDI) for even higher purity. 

DI water typically has a conductivity less than 0.5 µS/cm. 

Note:

While DM water is highly purified, it may still contain trace amounts of non-ionic impurities and organic contaminants like viruses or bacteria, which can be removed through further purification processes. 

In general, tap water in Gudari Gunta, Kakinada is considered safe for drinking, but it's always a good idea to be aware of potential contaminants and take precautions.

 In general, tap water in Gudari Gunta, Kakinada is considered safe for drinking, but it's always a good idea to be aware of potential contaminants and take precautions. 

Here's a more detailed look at tap water quality:

General Safety and Benefits:

Safe and Convenient:

Tap water is generally considered safe, convenient, and environmentally friendly compared to bottled water. 

Cost-Effective:

Tap water is a more affordable and sustainable option than bottled water. 

Fluoride:

Tap water from public sources often contains fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay. 

Regular Testing:

Water treatment facilities regularly test water for contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. 

Potential Contaminants and Precautions:

Lead:

Lead can leach into water from old pipes, even those labeled "lead-free". To minimize lead exposure, use cold water for drinking and cooking, and let the water run for a minute before using it. 

Other Contaminants:

Water can become contaminated due to breaks in water lines or other issues. 

Water Treatment:

Water treatment facilities use various methods to disinfect and filter water, including chlorine or chloramine and UV light. 

Byproducts of Disinfection:

Chlorine and other disinfectants can react with organic matter in the water, forming byproducts like trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids, which may increase cancer risk. 

Microbial Contamination:

Microorganisms can enter the water distribution system through compromised pipes. 

Recommendations:

Test Your Water:

If you have concerns about your water quality, consider getting your tap water tested by a certified laboratory. 

Use Cold Water:

Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula to minimize lead exposure. 

Run the Tap:

Let the water run for a minute before using it to flush out any stagnant water and potential contaminants. 

Maintain Filters:

If you use water filters, ensure they are properly maintained and replaced regularly to avoid bacterial growth. 

Stay Informed:

Stay informed about any water quality alerts or advisories issued by your local water authority. 

Note: While tap water is generally safe, it's crucial to be aware of potential contaminants and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your drinking water.