Cult Current E-MAGAZINE (Jan, 2025 Issue) ; National News Roundup
Young Farmer’s Journey to Save 300 Rare Seeds
A t the age of 32, Arun Salai, a seed protector from a small village called Mangalam in Tamil Nadu, embarked on a remarkable journey to save over 300 rare seeds of fruits and vegetables. With his life savings of just 300 rupees, Arun set out to create an indigenous seed bank that would preserve these invaluable varieties for future generations. From a young age, Arun had a deep connection with farming. After losing his mother, he grew up with his grandparents, often helping his grandfather in the fields. However, his love for agriculture transformed into a passionate mission after he met renowned organic farming scientist, G. Nammalvar, in 2011. Under Nammalvar's guidance, Arun became an expert in organic farming and dedicated himself to teaching other farmers the art of sustainable agriculture. During this time, Arun realized that many farmers lacked access to indigenous vegetable seeds.
RAJ KAPOOR: BOOSTING INDIA’S SOFT POWER THROUGH CINEMA
Raj Kapoor, through his films, not only strengthened India’s cultural identity but also enhanced the country’s soft power abroad. His 1955 film “Shree 420” featured the iconic song “Mera Joota Hai Japani”, which reflected the aspirations and realities of Indian society at the time. Penned by lyricist Shailendra, the song portrayed an Indian who, despite being surrounded by foreign influences externally, always had India in his heart. Raj Kapoor’s films resonated with global audiences and curiosity about India. The storyline of “Shree 420” was more than just entertainment; it captured the struggles of Indians living in a newly independent country facing economic hardships.
WHY YES MADAM’S PUBLICITY STUNT WAS UNETHICAL
Yes Madam is not the first company to resort to deceptive tactics to grab attention, but it raises serious ethical questions about marketing. Is lying acceptable for popularity? In the Hindi dubbed version of Pirates of the Caribbean, Jack Sparrow says, “If we are infamous, won’t we still be famous?” Many Indian companies seem to have adopted this philosophy. They make absurd or shocking claims, and when people start talking, they reveal it was all to “raise awareness.”
EXPERTS SKEPTICAL ABOUT AI IN EDUCATION
The EdTech sector saw rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic when schools were closed, and children were studying in front of screens at home. With this shift, the demand for technological solutions surged. However, as schools reopened, the demand dwindled, prompting EdTech companies to pivot towards integrating AI and using aggressive marketing strategies to attract investors. Big companies like Microsoft, Meta, and OpenAI are promoting AI products for schools or partnering with startups. Microsoft even launched its first AI education program in India.
MISUSE OF WOMEN’S SAFETY LAWS: A GROWING CONCERN?
In a tragic incident, Atul Subhash allegedly took his own life, accusing his wife and in-laws of extortion. According to his suicide note, he claimed that they filed a false dowry harassment case against him and later demanded money to withdraw it. Subhash also mentioned a judge’s involvement in the conspiracy, stating that his wife and her family harassed him and his family to the point where he saw no way out but suicide. While the investigation is ongoing and it’s too early to draw conclusions, this case has reignited the debate on the misuse of the law.
WHAT IS OCCRP, AND WHY IS BJP UPSET?
The BJP has raised concerns over the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), claiming that it receives funding from entities like the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and billionaire George Soros, who are part of an alleged “deep state” network.
STATES TO DRAFT LAWS FOR OFFICE WORKERS’ PROTECTION
In response to the tragic death of a young Ernst & Young (EY) employee, Maharashtra and Karnataka are now planning to introduce strict regulations to safeguard office workers. The employee’s family blamed excessive workload and stress for her death, prompting state governments to focus on white-collar employees who often face long hours, high pressure, and unjust dismissals. Historically, labor laws in India have prioritized blue-collar workers.
UNRESOLVED QUESTIONS SURROUNDING ‘ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION’ PLAN
According to media reports, the Union Cabinet has approved two bills related to the “One Nation, One Election” plan. These bills are expected to be introduced in the ongoing session of Parliament, though no official announcement has been made yet.Three months ago, the Cabinet accepted recommendations from a high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind. These bills reportedly follow the committee’s proposed framework. The ‘One Nation, One Election’ plan is an ambitious agenda of the BJP, first proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It aims to synchronize Lok Sabha, state assembly, and local body elections. The Kovind committee recommended implementing the plan in phases, starting with Lok Sabha and assembly elections together.The two bills would amend several constitutional provisions, though media reports suggest the changes wouldn’t require approval from all state assemblies. Local body elections remain outside the scope for now.
ASI’S CLAIMS ON SHAHI JAMA MASJID SPARKS LEGAL AND SOCIAL CONTROVERSY
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted its response to the court regarding the survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal. In its affidavit, the ASI stated that several unauthorized constructions have been made in the mosque, and the ASI team has faced difficulties during regular inspections. According to the affidavit, the mosque was declared a protected monument in 1920.
BEEF CONSUMPTION BANNED IN HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, AND PUBLIC PLACES IN ASSAM
The Assam government has imposed an immediate ban on public consumption of beef. On Wednesday, December 5, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) announcing the decision. He wrote, “In Assam, we have decided that no restaurant or hotel will serve beef, nor will it be allowed at any public gathering or public place. From today, we have decided to completely ban the consumption of beef in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces.” The Chief Minister further explained that the state enacted a law to prevent cattle slaughter three years ago.