Midday Newsfeed: Government focus

Here are some stories on government efforts to help stimulate positive change:

• Dialysis centres to tackle shortage

The health ministry is planning to open standalone dialysis centres across the country, much like pathological labs, where patients can undergo the life-saving procedure at a minimal rate.

• In the land of Blyth Tragopan

Khonoma, a Naga village and a site for Tragopan sanctuary in north-east India, has set an example for eco-friendly tourism. If the Centre for Environmental Education’s awareness programme was a catalyst, the real thrust came from the village council, which played a crucial role in the nature conservation effort.

• Farmers now need not worry about erratic rains

A modernisation programme by the Ministry of Earth Sciences will warn farmers about weather changes well in advance. The agro meteorological service centres of Indian Meteorological Department will be responsible for translating weather forecasts into farm advisories

•  SAARC to ensure regional food security

SAARC countries have recently launched the South Asia Food Security Programme with an estimated cost of US$ 25 million. Together Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will strive to improve crop production and nutrition in the region by pooling together scientific and natural resources.