CiCM 19th-20th August 2023

NEWS IN CHINA

Chinese scientists discover dwarf pulses: Chinese scientists using the FAST radio telescope have discovered a new type of pulsar emission named "dwarf pulses," as reported in the Nature Astronomy journal. Pulsars emit radio signals while rotating, but some undergo "nulling," where emissions pause. Using FAST's sensitivity, scientists from the National Astronomical Observatories, and Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC) found weak, sporadic, narrow pulses during pulsar B2111+46's nulling. These elusive dwarf pulses, distinct from regular pulses, maintain the same magnetic-field structure, implying unchanged magnetospheric structure when radiation diminishes. Unlike the particle "thunderstorm" causing normal pulses, dwarf pulses result from one or a few particles "raindrops." These findings offer insights into pulsar radiation and extreme plasma conditions within magnetospheres.
Provinces encourage SOEs to expand college graduate hiring: Numerous Chinese provinces and cities are encouraging state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to lead in stabilizing employment by expanding their hiring of college graduates. Policies have been implemented in places like Guangdong, Anhui, Hunan, Gansu, and Jiangxi, with some regions requiring that at least 50 percent of SOE hiring quotas be allocated to recent graduates. This move comes as the number of college graduates is estimated to increase by 820,000 and reach 11.58 million by the end of 2023. SOEs like PetroChina and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China are already reporting high rates of graduate hires. The effort aims to address youth employment challenges and align with the country's employment stabilization strategies.
China employs AI to refine weather prediction: China is employing artificial intelligence (AI) to refine weather predictions and cope with extreme weather events during what has proved to be a challenging summer. Shanghai AI Laboratory has utilized its Fengwu meteorological model, developed in collaboration with the National Meteorological Center and Shanghai Meteorological Service, to enhance typhoon forecasting. Typhoon Doksuri, the most powerful typhoon to impact China this summer, saw impressive forecasting accuracy from the Fengwu model. Its 24-hour prediction error was just 38.7 km, a marked improvement over the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) with 54.11 km and the U.S. National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) with 54.98 km. Fengwu employs deep learning technology and requires a single graphics processing unit for high-resolution global forecasts up to 10 days ahead. The model's creators envision broader applications for AI in various Earth science fields. Another Chinese model, Pangu Weather, also demonstrates superior forecasting accuracy.
Jack Ma launches new agro-fishery start-up: Jack Ma, the founder and former chairman of Alibaba Group, has shifted his focus to agriculture and fishery after retiring from the e-commerce giant. He recently established a start-up called "1.8 Meters Marine Technology (Zhejiang) Co," with interests in aquatic products, feeding, processing, agriculture, and offshore wind power systems. Ma's interest in agriculture has led him on international trips to learn about sustainable food production, and he holds a position as a visiting professor at Tokyo College, focusing on sustainable agriculture and food production. This move aligns with his commitment to promoting sustainable practices and improving the agriculture sector. Other Chinese tech founders, like Colin Huang of Pinduoduo, have also ventured into the agricultural sector post-retirement.
COVID-19 prevalence remains low as EG.5 variant cases rise in China: Despite the rise in EG.5 variant cases, China's overall COVID-19 prevalence remains low, according to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The EG.5-related cases have increased from 0.6 per cent in April to 71.6 per cent currently, making it the dominant variant in most provinces. The center expects this trend to continue for some time but notes that the strain's impact on local healthcare systems is moderate, and large-scale transmission is unlikely in the short term. The World Health Organization (WTO) classified EG.5 as a "variant of interest" due to its increasing proportion globally, yet it doesn't appear to pose more health risks than other variants. EG.5 has been detected in over 52 countries and regions worldwide.
Central Science and Technology Committee established: The newly established Central Science and Technology Committee held its inaugural meeting, signaling the heightened importance placed on science and technology by the Party Central Committee. The Committee's responsibilities include centralized leadership in scientific and technological endeavors, coordinating national innovation and reform efforts, strategic planning, and promoting military-civilian technology integration. This institutional reform aligns with China's goal of technological innovation and self-reliance. Tang Fuqiang, director of the Foreign Talent Research Center, emphasized the Committee's significance and stressed the need for improved political theory understanding, strategic research, and professional capabilities among its members. This reform is part of broader changes in the Party Central Committee, with similar structural adjustments seen in the financial, social work, and Hong Kong-Macau affairs sectors.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER IN CHINA

An elderly Chinese couple's remarkable collection of over 1,000 cacti has captured online netizens’ attention: A couple from Kunming City, Yunnan province, Liu Yonghong, and his wife have cultivated an impressive array of cacti in their 300-square-meter home, fueled by Liu's 16-year passion for plants. They invested two million yuan in constructing a 150-square-meter greenhouse to provide an ideal environment for the cacti, eventually dedicating their entire property to these spikey desert plants. Liu's positive outlook on life, despite his diagnosis of myasthenia gravis, has inspired many. The couple's unique collection and dedication have garnered widespread admiration on mainland social media, resonating with those who appreciate uncommon passions. The couple's tale has enraptured mainland social media, with users expressing their fascination. One commenter marveled, "I'm blown away by the incredible cactus haven they've created." Another remarked, "Liu's ability to transform challenges into a flawless way of life is incredibly motivating." Unusual collections frequently captivate Chinese netizens, reflecting the couple's remarkable story, which showcases dedication and enjoyment of life.

INDIA WATCH

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing weather forecasting, offering potential benefits across various sectors, especially agriculture. AI's integration requires substantial high-quality databases, allowing for tailored, hyperlocal predictions. Weather needs differ for various industries, such as paddy and cotton farmers, necessitating precision. While AI won't replace physical observation models or numerical models, it can aid in contextual analysis, enhance accuracy, and provide personalized information. India's Meteorological Department is collaborating with AI experts to improve short-term forecasts, eliminate irrelevant data, aid decision-making during severe weather, and develop user-specific products. AI-driven weather insights can revolutionize farming, livestock management, and disaster preparedness, aiding decision-making and enhancing productivity in climate-affected industries. By utilizing AI, IMD aims to enhance short-range predictions (spanning three hours to seven days) through higher-resolution forecasts at village or panchayat levels. A team of scientists focused on AI research has been established, collaborating with institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and private stakeholders. The IMD's extensive digital data since 1901, including temperature, wind, and satellite/radar information, offers a rich resource for AI to extract valuable insights. While AI won't replace numerical models, it will complement them, optimizing data utilization and refining predictions.

Prepared By

Akshita Pant

Akshita Pant is a post-graduate research scholar with a degree in Masters in International Relations from Amity University. Her expertise lies in the field of geopolitics, particularly focusing on China and East Asia. With a keen interest in India's foreign policy, national security, and culture, with a deep passion for understanding the complexities of international relations.