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Know your Garden Microbes : Nostoc

  Know your Garden Microbes : Nostoc  As gardeners, we often focus on the macro aspects of our garden such as the plants, trees, and shrubs. But, what about the tiny microbes that play a vital role in the health of our gardens? Today, we are going to focus on a particular type of bacteria that is often overlooked: Nostoc. What is Nostoc? N ostoc is  a jelly-like microorganism commonly found growing on soggy lawns. While the discovery of the creature might be frightening for some gardeners, it poses no threat to plants or animals in the environment. Because the Nostoc grows in places where grass does not, it is likely to fill in any gaps left by the grass. Evidence of an imbalance in the ratio of fungus to bacteria can be easily identified.  Figure 1: Nostoc Growing in the Garden. It was once believed that these strange-looking masses of matter came from the dust of shooting stars, which gave rise to the nicknames star jelly, star shot, and star slime beca...

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Complex Co-Existence of Pakistan and India

 Intricacies of the Relationship Explored Pakistan and India share a rich yet intricate history that has spanned decades. These two nations have been entwined in a rivalry characterized by animosity and tension. The origins of this animosity lie deep within the historical narratives of both countries.  In the modern era, the propagation of misinformation and propaganda, primarily through social media and other digital avenues, has fueled and intensified this antagonistic sentiment. Propaganda's Disturbing Consequences:  Impact on Youth and Society The most disconcerting aspect of this propaganda is its influence on the younger generation. Pakistani children, from a tender age, are exposed to content that portrays India and its people in a negative light. These messages are carefully crafted to demonize  India and those who follow religions different from Islam. This deliberate manipulation plants seeds of enmity and hostility within impressionable minds, fostering a ...

Inequities in India's Taxation: Unfolding the GST Council's Ironies .

 Introduction: The GST Council in India convenes periodically to discuss and refine tax structures. Each meeting brings forth a mix of positive and negative developments, often revealing new ironies and fallacies within the economy.  This article sheds light on certain inconsistencies, focusing on the taxation of non-branded atta or wheat, the exemption of cricket games like IPL from GST, and the associated revenue generation. Taxing Essentials, Exempting Entertainment: One of the glaring ironies in the Indian tax system is the imposition of GST on non-branded atta or wheat, an essential commodity consumed by the poor. Despite the burden on those struggling to make ends meet, cricket, a form of entertainment, remains exempt from GST. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the governing body of cricket in India, enjoys tax-free status despite being the wealthiest cricket governing body globally. Example: A daily wage laborer, s...

India's Dilemma: The Laptop Import Ban and Its Implications

 Introduction: The Indian economy is currently grappling with a decision that has sparked debates across various sectors. The ban on laptop imports has ignited discussions on economic strategies, the role of competition, and the implications for both consumers and industries. This article dissects the ban's rationale, consequences, and potential impact on India's growth trajectory. The Laptop Ban's Irony: In a globalized world, India's export of software and IT services surpasses the oil export volume of many Middle Eastern countries. This feat is a testament to India's soft power and intellectual capital, made possible by the decentralized infrastructure of the technology industry. The paradox arises when a country renowned for its IT prowess bans laptop imports, raising eyebrows about the wisdom behind such a decision. Examples: While India's expertise in IT and software is internationally recognized, the laptop ban contrad...