Latest news with #andFisheries
Barnama
7 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
Japan to Supply Lower-Priced Reserve Rice to Rural Areas Amid Price Surge
TOKYO, May 28 (Bernama-Kyodo) -- The Japanese government has pledged to supply reserve rice to rural areas at lower prices, in response to soaring retail costs and high demand from major retailers, Kyodo news agency reported. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries said on Wednesday that it will ensure the stockpiled rice is distributed more broadly and stably by giving priority to small retailers, after suspending bulk orders from large chains. 'We will continue with our efforts to make sure reserve rice will reach people living in rural areas as much as possible,' said Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi during a parliamentary session, hinting at potential purchase limits for large retailers. bootstrap slideshow The move came after around 70 major retailers submitted requests totalling over 200,000 tonnes -- two-thirds of the 300,000 tonnes made available -- just one day after the launch of the new release scheme on Monday. The ministry has since stopped accepting new orders from major retailers and will allocate the remaining 100,000 tonnes to small supermarkets and local rice shops. Applications are expected to reopen as early as Friday, with the government covering transport costs. Currently, only major retailers that handle over 10,000 tonnes of rice annually can make bulk purchases under the ministry's criteria. The government has been under pressure to stabilise food prices, as the average price of retail rice has doubled compared to a year ago. Earlier stockpile releases through auction failed to curb the spike, prompting the government to adopt direct sales to retailers. Major players such as Aeon Co, Ito-Yokado Co and Rakuten Group Inc have purchased rice under the new scheme. However, most opted for 2022 harvest stocks, leaving the 2021 rice supply for smaller businesses.
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Report uncovers disturbing truth behind monkeys sold for 'corrupt' industry: 'There can be no dispute'
A groundbreaking report from Sandy River Research asserted that large swaths of so-called "captive-born" macaques from Southeast Asian breeding facilities might actually be poached wild monkeys. Endangered long-tailed macaques, native to Southeast Asia, have likely been poached and sold en masse to U.S.-based research facilities. According to Mongabay, Cambodia exported captive-born monkeys for biomedical research purposes during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the numbers reported by these breeding facilities don't add up. In 2022, Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries reported over 73,000 captive macaque births in just one month. This is way outside the norm. Mongabay reported that, just two years prior, the total population in these facilities was a little over 69,000. Sandy River suggested that wild monkeys have been captured and sold to breeding facilities, which then forge the birthing rates on official records. Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries refuted Sandy River's claims. However, an anonymous poacher told Mongabay that he's been catching and selling long-tailed macaques to middlemen who bribed authorities and transported them to breeding farms in Cambodia and Vietnam. "There can be no dispute that the deficit has been filled by macaques obtained illegally and likely laundered into and out of the K-F site [monkey farm] for export for many years," Sandy River said. This is about more than long-tailed macaques. The anonymous poacher told Mongabay that he's encountered fewer monkeys each year. Though that evidence is anecdotal, long-tailed macaques are already an endangered species. Due to deforestation and trade demand, their population has declined by about 40% in the last 40 years. When a species declines or goes extinct, its ecosystem can be thrown out of balance, harming biodiversity. Humans across the world depend on biodiversity for fresh water, reliable food systems, and about half of modern medicines, according to the World Health Organization. If this report is correct, it seems that the biomedical research industry fuels this illegal trade of endangered species for animal testing. Do you think we use too much plastic in America? Definitely Only some people Not really I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Lisa Jones-Engel, a primate scientist with PETA, said in an email to Mongabay that the biomedical research industry is clearly complicit in supporting "a transnational criminal network that illegally sources wild primates for the violent and corrupt international primate trade." Sandy River suggested that global authorities suspend primate imports until Cambodia and Vietnam can provide proper legal documentation. It also recommended more thorough law enforcement. So far, these actions have not been taken. If you would like to help on an individual level, you can try donating to causes that support endangered species, like the World Wildlife Fund. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
NDTV
22-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Why Forest Bathing Is A Wellness Trend In Focus
In March 2024, when Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, revealed in a video that she had been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer - a revelation shook the world. However, a year later, Kate shared that she is now in remission. On May 20, she made her first appearance at a Buckingham Palace garden party, where she helped host the event. Over the past year, Kate has opened up about various aspects of her journey and the many things that have helped her get through it - from chemotherapy to surgeries. But beyond medical treatment, Kate has also offered glimpses into what seems like forest bathing. "Don't forget to nurture all that which lies beyond the disease," she shared in one of her posts. The accompanying picture showed her standing beneath a willow tree in Windsor, gazing up at the sky. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales) Kate has often posted photos of herself surrounded by nature and forested landscapes - a practice that's becoming increasingly popular, inspired by the Japanese tradition known as Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. So why is this trend gaining traction now, and what exactly does it involve? Let's find out. What Is Forest Bathing? Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains that forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, is about spending quiet, mindful time in a natural setting - usually a forest. "It's not about intense hiking or physical activity," says Dr Tayal. "Instead, it's about slowing down, tuning into your senses, and connecting with nature." The idea of forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980s, as a response to the rising stress and disconnection caused by urban lifestyles. The term was coined by Tomohide Akiyama, then Director of Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. The practice encourages individuals to immerse themselves in forest environments to enhance their overall well-being. Though popularised in the 1980s, the notion of healing through nature has much deeper roots in Japanese culture. Spiritual traditions like Shugendo, practised by mountain ascetics, highlight the sacredness of nature. According Dr Tayal, the practice is gaining popularity across the globe, and scientific research increasingly supports its positive effects on health and well-being. Dr Urvi Maheshwari, Internal Medicine expert at Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai, adds that forest bathing is trending in India too. "Various studies have shown that walking in nature is beneficial for both physical and mental health," she says. It seems what Japan discovered in the 1980s, the world is yearning for today - a pause from the relentless pace of modern life. Benefits Of Forest Bathing NDTV spoke to several experts to understand whether forest bathing is backed by science or just another fleeting trend. Lowers Cortisol Levels Dr Tayal explains that time spent in nature helps reduce stress. "Research shows that being in forests lowers cortisol - the stress hormone - and helps calm your heart rate and blood pressure," he says. This calming effect is tied to the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and balance. Enhances Mental Health Dr Maheshwari notes that forest bathing can reduce anxiety, stress, and symptoms of depression. "It boosts mood, improves focus, aids sleep, encourages emotional stability, and brings mental clarity," she says. You can invite your partner to join you in forest bathing too. Photo: Unsplash Dr Tayal agrees. He adds, "Those who practise forest bathing often feel more relaxed and content. Nature helps us slow down, breathe deeply, and be present-something that naturally lifts mental well-being." Neurological Benefits Dr Manish Chhabria, senior consultant in neurology at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, highlights the neurological advantages. "Nature exposure through forest bathing has been linked to better cognitive function and reduced stress," says Dr Chhabria. He notes that it can enhance memory, attention, and creativity. "Forest environments reduce stress hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol. Regular exposure also supports improved focus and problem-solving skills," he adds. Boosts The Immune System Dr Tayal points out that forest bathing can strengthen the immune system. "Trees release compounds called phytoncides. When we breathe these in, our immune cells-particularly natural killer cells - become more active. This may help fight viruses and reduce the risk of illness," he says. Improves Your Sleep Cycle Spending time outdoors, especially in natural light and away from screens, helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm. "This makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep," adds Dr Tayal. How To Do Forest Bathing The Right Way Unlike hiking or jogging, forest bathing is a slow, sensory experience that encourages mindfulness. It's about being present in the moment and absorbing your natural surroundings. Here's a simple guide to get started: Choose a quiet natural space - a forest, park, or garden. The key is to find a spot rich in greenery and low in noise. Silence your devices to minimise distractions. Walk slowly and attentively. Observe the colours, textures, sounds, and scents around you. Engage your senses. Touch tree bark, listen to birdsong, inhale the earthy air. Breathe deeply and allow nature's calm to settle within you. In A Nutshell Forest bathing offers a chance to unplug from daily stress and reconnect with the present. It encourages mindfulness, reduces mental fatigue, and fosters a sense of inner peace - something people in the 21st century need more than ever.
The Hindu
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Officials told to take measures to achieve 15% growth rate in allied agricultural sectors in A.P.
Andhra Pradesh Minister for Agriculture, Cooperation, Marketing, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries Kinjarapu Atchannaidu has asked the officials of agriculture and allied departments to promote not only quality paddy cultivation but also horticultural crops. 'Take measures to achieve 15% growth rate in allied agricultural sectors,' he said during a video conference with the officials of agriculture and allied departments held at the Secretariat to assess the kharif preparedness. He stressed the need for encouraging natural farming and crop rotation while reducing the use of fertilizers. The farmers should be encouraged to shift their attention from traditional crops to horticultural and commercial crops. New technologies and artificial intelligence should be introduced on a large scale to reduce cultivation costs in allied agricultural sectors, increase quality yields, and expand marketing facilities. The Minister called for robust arrangements so that farmers face no difficulties during the kharif season. He instructed that all types of seeds and fertilizers required for kharif be made available to farmers in a timely manner. 'Implement natural farming fully in the regions where it is currently practised and expand it gradually to other areas. Soil testing reports must be provided to farmers. Applications related to agricultural mechanisation should be resolved within four to five days. The 50% subsidy under this scheme is being provided in advance, and officials must focus on ensuring the farmer's share is arranged through bank loans,' the Minister said. The officials should stay alert to prevent the sale of spurious seeds and fertilizers. Special attention should be paid to traceability (to track the history, location, and application of agricultural products as they move through the supply chain—from farm to fork), certification, volume, and marketing aspects, he said. The Minister emphasised the promotion of micro-irrigation and achieving 100% targets. All services must be made available to farmers in time through the Rythu Seva Kendras (Farmer Service Centres). 'All tenant farmers should be issued CCRS cards and be made eligible for bank loans,' he said. B. Rajashekar, Special Chief Secretary (Agriculture) said that the government pinned high hopes on developing the primary sector. 'Hence, a 15% growth rate target has been set for the allied agricultural sectors,' he said and urged all officials to work together to achieve the target. He emphasised that crops and yields should be optimised in line with local conditions and opportunities, making extensive use of new technologies and artificial intelligence. Special apps should be developed for this purpose, he said.
Qatar Tribune
20-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar, Benin sign six pacts to bolster ties
QNA Doha The State of Qatar and the Republic of Benin on Tuesday signed six joint cooperation agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), on the sidelines of the working visit of HE President of the Republic of Benin Patrice Talon to the country. The signed agreements and MoUs include: An agreement to exempt both countries' diplomatic and special passport holders from visa requirements, an MoU to establish a mechanism for political and diplomatic consultations, an MoU between Qatar's Ministry of Municipality and Benin's Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries to cooperate in the fields of agriculture and food security, a cooperation agreement in the fields of education, higher education, and scientific research and an MoU on the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates, along with an MoU to cooperate in tourism and business 15
