This podcast episode explores various topics, including the profitability and regulation of app stores, the increasing costs and impact of elections in India, and the challenges and potential solutions for tackling desert locust invasions. The app store duopoly held by Google and Apple is being scrutinized by regulators who aim to introduce more competition and fairness into the marketplace. The Indian election is expected to be the world's most expensive, with rising costs due to factors such as aggressive campaigning and the adoption of digital marketing. These spending patterns have consequences, such as the potential for corruption and the attraction of wealthy candidates who may not truly represent their constituencies. The population of desert locusts is growing due to human actions like climate change and land use changes. Solutions discussed include R&D initiatives, the use of drones and biopesticides, and the prioritization of environmentally-friendly approaches. Preventing desert locust invasions through low-tech methods and sufficient funding for field officers is also highlighted.
