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28th Sep Current Affairs News Analysis | Prelims & Mains 2020

Sandalwood Spike Disease
HEADLINES:
Sandalwood Spike Disease
WHY IN NEWS:
India’s sandalwood trees are facing a serious threat due to Sandalwood Spike Disease (SSD).
SYLLABUS COVERED: GS 3:Diseases
ISSUE:
SANDALWOOD SPIKE DISEASE
- It is an infectious disease which is caused by phytoplasma.
- Phytoplasmas are bacterial parasites of plant tissues .
- There is no cure as of now for the infection.
- Presently, there is no option but to cut down and remove the infected tree to prevent the spread of the disease.
- The disease was first reported in Kodagu, Karnataka in 1899.
- The present rapid spread of the infection is largely due to restrictions on green felling in forests, which has allowed vectors to spread the disease to healthy trees.
- Green felling (silviculture felling) is the felling of green trees of one or more types.
- Silviculture is the art and science of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, health, and quality of forests and woodlands to meet the diverse needs and values of landowners and society.
IASbhai WINDUP:
- More than a million sandalwood trees were removed in the Kodagu and Mysore region between 1903 and 1916.
- About 1% to 5% of sandalwood trees lost every year due to the disease.
- Scientists warn that it could wipe out the entire natural population if measures are not taken to prevent its spread.
- Another concern is, any delay in arresting the trend may result in the disease spreading to cultivated sandalwood trees.
SOURCES:THE HINDU & PIB | 28th Sep Current Affairs News Analysis
Guidelines on sale of loose sweets
HEADLINES:
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has released guidelines on sale of loose sweets.
WHY IN NEWS:
Hot from PIB !
SYLLABUS COVERED: GS 3: Adulteration : Food Safety
ISSUE:
- The food business operators (FBOs) might also display the date of manufacturing. It is not mandatory however.
- Food safety commissioners should ensure compliance.
IASbhai WINDUP:
ADULTERATION
- The decision was based on various complaints about the quality and adulteration of sweets, mostly during festive season.
- This regulation will help to ensure that the consumers are purchasing fresh products.
SOURCES:THE HINDU & PIB | 28th Sep Current Affairs News Analysis
DISCOVER MORE : Important Daily Current Affairs for UPSC PRELIMS 2020
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