Month: September 2023

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024:IISc Placed First in India; 91 Indian Institutions Featured in The Ranking According to the ‘Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2024′, the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru (IISc Bengaluru) in Karnataka has become the top Indian institution among Indian universities.

• With 91 Indian institutes included in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024, India is the fourth most-represented country on the list. In 2023,75 institutes from India were featured in the list.
• University of Oxford of United Kingdom(UK) ranked 1st in THE World University Rankings 2024 for the eighth consecutive year, while Stanford University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT) of  United States of America(USA) in second and third places respectively.

About Times Higher Education (THE):
Formerly The Times Higher Education Supplement (The Thes), it is a British magazine reporting on news and issues related to higher education.
CEO– Paul Howarth
Headquarters– London, United Kingdom (UK)

Highlights of 45th Session of World Heritage CommitteeThe 45th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, concluding on September 25. This session witnessed the addition of 42 new sites to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s World Heritage List, alongside other significant decisions.

• The committee was chaired by H.H. Princess Haifa Al Mogrin, Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia(KSA) served as the host country for 45th session of WHC.
• Of the 42 newly inscribed sites, 33 are cultural and 9 are natural.  This brings the total number of UNESCO World Heritage sites to 1199 (993 cultural, 227 natural, 39 mixed) across 168 countries. .The Committee also approved the extension of below 5 existing World Heritage sites
• India’s Santiniketan in West Bengal and the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas in Karnataka have been added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage list…Click here for complete information…

About World Heritage Committee

• Chairperson: Dr Abdulelah Al-Tokhais (Saudi Arabia)
• Rapporteur: Ms. Shikha Jain (India)

UNCTAD’s Review of Maritime Transport 2023: Decarbonizing Shipping to Cost Over USD 100bn/yearUnited Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)’s Review of Maritime Transport 2023 urged to take action and system-wide collaboration to decarbonize maritime transport. The report warns that the decarbonising shipping would cost over USD 100 billion per year as the emission continue to increase.

• UNCTAD urges the need for cleaner fuels, digital solutions and an equitable transition to address ongoing carbon emissions and regulatory uncertainties in the shipping industry.

i.Full decarbonization could raise annual fuel expenses by 70% to 100%, affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) heavily reliant on maritime transport.
ii.The Review emphasizes the need for a transition to cleaner fuels in the shipping sector as nearly 99% of the global fleet still relies on conventional fuels.
About United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD):
It is an intergovernmental organization which promotes the interests of developing countries in world trade.
Secretary-General– Rebeca Grynspan
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland

IATA Allots three-letter Code ‘DXN’ for Upcoming Jewar International Airport in Noida
International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for the world’s airlines, has allotted the three-letter code ‘DXN’ for the upcoming greenfield airport at Jewar in New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (Noida), Uttar Pradesh (UP). The code ‘DXN’ symbolises the airport’s proximity to Noida, Delhi, and western UP.

• This three-letter code assigned by the IATA will be the designator, that airlines and travel agencies will use, internationally, to identify Noida International Airport.
• This ensures that travelers can easily identify the airport across various platforms. It will help travelers and aviation professionals to identify and communicate destinations swiftly and accurately, avoiding any confusion and mistakes.
• By the end of 2024, this initiative will be fully implemented. The code will become active once airport operations start.
• Once completed, the Noida airport is composed to become the largest airport in India, spanning an expansive 5,000-hectare area and developed in 4 phases.
• The first phase is scheduled to be completed with one runway and a 12 million passenger capacity terminal building by September 2024.
• The airport for the UP government is being built by Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL), a fully-owned subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG, Switzerland.

Note: IATA represents some 300 airlines or 83% of total air traffic.

Vande Bharat Trains Project: Indian Railways Signed Supply Contract with Indo-Russian JV Kinet Railway Solutions
The Indian Railways has signed a supply contract with the Indo-Russian Joint Venture (JV) Kinet Railway Solutions for manufacturing Vande Bharat trains. As per the contract, Kinet Railway Solutions will manufacture 120 Vande Bharat trains, along with maintenance services for 35 years.

• Kinet Railway Solutions is a JV between Metrowagonmash (MWM) and Locomotive Electronic Systems (LES), Russia, and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), India for the production of Vande Bharat trains. MWM is a subsidiary of rail equipment manufacturer, Transmashholding JSC Group (Transmash).
• The collaboration between MWM, LES, and RVNL for the Vande Bharat train project faced persistent challenges from the start, primarily over the issue of majority ownership between Indian and Russian partners.
• The dispute delayed the contract signing with the Indian Railways till September 2023. The Indian Railways had invited bids for Vande Bharat train sets in December 2022 and they were opened in March 2023.
• On September 14, 2023, the United States of America’s (US) Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed sanctions on Russian entities including elites, industries, financial institutions, and technology suppliers.

RBI issues New Prudential Regulations for AIFIs; Cancels Licence of Nashik Zilla Girna Sahakari Bank Limited, Nashik i.The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the RBI (Prudential Regulations on Basel III Capital Framework, Exposure Norms, Significant Investments, Classification, Valuation and Operation of Investment Portfolio Norms and Resource Raising Norms for All India Financial Institutions) Directions, 2023 which will be applicable w.e.f. April 1, 2024.
ii.These were issued by RBI in exercise of powers conferred by Section 45L of the RBI Act, 1934.
iii.RBI cancelled the licence of the Nashik Zilla Girna Sahakari Bank Limited, in Nashik, Maharashtra, since the bank did have an adequate capital and earning prospects. Following this, the bank ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from 26th September 2023.
About Reserve Bank of India (RBI):
Governor – Shaktikanta Das
Deputy Governors – Swaminathan Janakiraman, Michael Debabrata Patra, M. Rajeshwar Rao, T. Rabi Sankar
Establishment – 1st April 1935
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra

KBL-Swarna Bandhu: Karnataka Bank launches Door Step Gold Loan Facility in collaboration with SahiBandhu Karnataka Bank Limited (KBL) introduced an innovative Door-Step Gold Loan service called “KBL-Swarna Bandhu” for its customers in collaboration with SahiBandhu.

• It enables complete digitalization of gold loan processes, allowing the bank to offer gold loan services directly to customers at their doorstep.  It also expands its Gold Loan Portfolio.
• SahiBandhu, a leading aggregator platform for gold loans supported by The Manipal Group.

Key Points:
i.As a part of this collaboration, SahiBandhu will serve as a Corporate Business Correspondent and Lending Service Provider, adhering to the established digital lending guidelines.
ii.This collaboration will strengthen the bank’s gold loan portfolio and highlight the digital expertise of both Karnataka Bank and SahiBandhu.
iii.Initially, the service will be available in select bank branches and will gradually be extended to all branches.
About Karnataka Bank Limited(KBL):
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer– Srikrishnan Hari Hara Sarma
Headquarters– Mangaluru, Karnataka
Tagline– Your Family Bank Across India
Establishment– 1924
About SahiBandhu:
Co-Founder and CEO– Rajesh Shet
Headquarters– Gurugram, Haryana

Kantar BrandZ Top 75 Most Valuable Indian Brands Report: TCS Retains Its Number One PositionIn the 10th anniversary edition of the Kantar BrandZ Top 75 Most Valuable Indian Brands Report conducted by Wire and Plastic Products (WPP) and Kantar, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) retained its top position as India’s most valuable brand for the second consecutive year with a brand value of USD 43 billion.

• Housing Development Finance Corporation(HDFC) bank and Infosys occupies  2nd and 3rd position with a brand value of  USD 33,612 and USD 24,170 respectively.

Data & Analytics:
India’s top 75 brands have a combined brand value of USD 379 billion, a decline of 4% from 2022.
About Kantar:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Chris Jansen
Headquarters – London, United Kingdom(UK)

Gokul Subramaniam Appointed as Intel India President
Intel Corporation, a leading digital chipmaker based in the United States of America(USA), has appointed Gokul Subramaniam as the President of Intel India.

• As Intel India President, he will be responsible for Intel’s overall engineering and design operations in India, including driving innovation, cross-group efficiencies, and execution of Intel products from the site.
• He is currently a Vice President (VP) of the Client Computing Group (CCG) and serves as general manager of Client Platforms and Systems. He will be assuming the Intel India president role in addition to the existing leading client platforms and systems in CCG.
• Before joining Intel in 2012, Subramaniam worked with Texas Instruments. He is the inventor of 6 patents with an additional 5 filed in the areas of computing, wireless, power management, industrial design, systems, and software.

In June 2023, Nivruti Rai, Intel India country head and vice president of foundry services, resigned from her post. Later in July 2023, she was appointed as Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Invest India, the investment promotion and facilitation agency of the Indian Governemnt.

• Intel India is the company’s largest design and engineering center outside the United States of America (USA), with state-of-the-art design facilities in Bengaluru (Karnataka) and Hyderabad (Telangana).

KN Madhusoodanan Appointed as Part-Time Chairman of Dhanlaxmi Bank
Reserve Bank of India(RBI) has approved the appointment of KN Madhusoodanan as the Part-Time Chairman of Thrissur (Kerala)-based Dhanlaxmi Bank for a period of 3 years with effect from September 26, 2023. He has been an Independent Director on the Board of the Bank with effect from 9 November 2022.

• KN Madhusoodanan succeeded G Subramonia Iyer, Part-time Chairman and Independent Director of the bank, who resigned in December 2021. Following his resignation, the bank had been without a Chairman for 21 months.
• KN Madhusoodanan is the Managing Director of various private limited companies including Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) companies. He ventured into civil construction in 1983.
• He founded the Mavanal group of companies and established 2 crushed units Mavanal Granites Private Limited and Vajra Rock Mining Industries in Pathanamthitta, Kerala. He is the promoter and MD of M/s. Mavanal Granites Private Limited.

Previously, RBI rejected the proposal to appoint G Rajagopalan Nair as its part-time chairman. He has been serving as an independent director with the bank since August 2020.

Iran’s IRGC Launched Military Imaging Satellite Nour 3 Into Orbit Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has successfully launched a third military imaging satellite Nour 3  from the Shahroud spaceport of Iran into the orbit.

• The satellite was launched by the three-stage Qased carrier which was developed by the IRGC.
• In Persian, Noor means “light” and Qased means “Messenger”.

Points to note:
i.The Noor-3 was placed in Lower Earth Orbit(LEO) at the height of 450km (280 miles) from the surface of the Earth.
ii.Nour-3 satellite will be used to collect data and images for IRGC’s intelligence purposes.
Previous versions of Nour:
i.Nour 1 is the first military reconnaissance satellite launched by Iran after several failed attempts.

• It was launched in April 2020 at a height of 425km (265 miles) above the Earth.

ii.Nour 2 was launched in March 2022 in a low orbit of 500km (310 miles).
Other Satellite of  Iran:
In August 2022, Iran’s high-resolution, remote-sensing Khayyam satellite was launched by Russia’s  Soyuz-2.1b rocket, from the Russia-controlled Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
About Iran:
President – Ebrahim Raisi
Capital – Tehran
Currency – Iranian Rial

Padma Awardee MS Swaminathan, Father of India’s Green Revolution, Passed AwayIndian agricultural scientist and Padma Awardee Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan (MS Swaminathan), who is popularly known as the Father of India’s Green Revolution, passed away at the age of 98 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu(TN). He was born on 7th August 1925 in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. He is a native of Mankombu, Alappuzha District, Kerala.
About MS Swaminathan:
i.In 1954, Dr. Swaminathan joined the faculty of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, Delhi. He served as the Director of IARI from 1961 to 1972.
ii.He served as the Director General (DG) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Secretary to the Government of India (GoI), Department of Agricultural Research and Education from 1972-79.
iii.In 1988, he became the president of the International Union of the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
iv.He has also served as the Member of the Parliament (MP) of India (Rajya Sabha – Nominated) from 2007 to 2013.
v.He founded M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), a research centre in Chennai in 1988 and served as its Chairman, Emeritus Chairman, and Chief Mentor.
Awards/Honours:
i.GoI honoured him with the Padma Shri (1967), Padma Bhushan (1972) and Padma Vibhushan (1989) for Science and Engineering.
ii.He was named the first World Food Prize Laureate for developing and spearheading the introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties into India during the 1960s. He received the award in 1987.
iii.He won numerous international awards such as:

• The 1994 United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Sasakawa Environment Prize;
• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Gandhi Gold Medal in 1999;
• The 1999 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development; and
• The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Award in 2000.
• The Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 1971.

iv.TIME Magazine honoured him as one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century.

• He was the 3rd Indian to receive this honour after Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore.

v.The government of Kerala conferred him the ‘Kerala Shastra Puraskaram 2021, for his achievement in agricultural research

• Kerala Shastra Puraskaram, instituted jointly by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) and the Department of Science and Technology.

Ashwin Dani, former Executive Chairman of Asian Paints Passed AwayAshwin Suryakant Dani, former Executive Chairman of Asian Paints Limited, India’s leading paint and decor company, has passed away at the age of 79. He was born on September 26, 1944, in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

• He is the son of Suryakant Dani, one of the co-founders of Asian Paints.

Note: Asian Paints is now among Asia’s biggest paint companies with operations in 19 countries.
About Ashwin Suryakant Dani:
i.In 1967, Ashwin Dani initiated his career as a development chemist at Inmont Corp, now BASF in Detroit, the United States of America (USA).
ii.Ashwin Dani joined Asian Paints in 1968 as a senior executive.
iii.He joined the Asian Paints’ Board in 1970 and held the position of Vice Chairman and Managing Director (MD) of Asian Paints from 1998 to 2009.
iv.He served as the founder director on the board of PPG Asian Paints, a Joint Venture (JV), formed in 1997 between Asian Paints Limited and PPG Industries Inc., USA.
v.Since 2009, he continued on the board as the non-executive director & vice chairman of the board and the company.
vi.He served as the Non-Executive Chairman on the board of Asian paints from 2018 to 2021. He stepped down from his post in 2021.

International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2023- September 29 The United Nations (UN) International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW) is annually observed across the globe on 29 September to raise awareness of the importance of the food loss and waste issue and promote global efforts towards resolving it.

• The day is co-convened by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the day’s global events are led jointly by the two organisations.

29 September 2023 marks the observance of the 4th IDAFLW.

• The 2023 theme of IDAFLW is, “Reducing food Loss and waste:  Taking Action to Transform Food Systems”.

With this theme, IDAFLW serves as a powerful call to action for both public and private entities to take action to reduce food loss and waste (FLW) toward transforming agrifood systems to contribute to the achievement of the 2030 agenda.
Background:
i.On 19 December 2019, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in its 74th session adopted the resolution A/RES/74/209 and designated the 29 September of every year as the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste.

• The resolution recognizes the fundamental role that sustainable food production plays in promoting food security and nutrition.

ii.The first IDAFLW was observed on 29 September 2020.
About Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN:
Director-General– QU Dongyu
Headquarters– Rome, Italy
Established in– 1945

World Heart Day 2023 – 29th September 2023World Heart Day(WHD) 2023 is observed across the globe on 29th September 2023 to raise awareness about heart health and accelerate actions to prevent, detect and manage cardiovascular diseases(CVD).
Theme:
The theme for the World Heart Day 2023 is “Use Heart, Know Heart.”

• The theme emphasises the crucial process of getting to know one’s own heart first; It intends to think and act towards the reduction of CVD.

i.WHD was established in 2000 by the World Heart Federation(WHF) in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO).
ii.Numerous South East Asian nations, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Timor-Leste, have committed to improving hypertension and diabetes management in primary healthcare by 2025 through the SEAHEARTS initiative.
About World Heart Federation(WHF):
World Heart Federation is a global Non-Governmental Organization(NGO) dedicated to the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases.
President – Daniel Piñeiro
Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland

Arunachal Signed MoU with NGI to Harness Geothermal PotentialsOn the occasion of World Tourism Day (WTD) 2023 (27th September 2023), Arunachal Pradesh government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) to explore and develop its geothermal potential through hot springs available in the state.

• The aim of the MoU coincides with the theme of WTD 2023 “Tourism and Green Investment.”

The Royal Norwegian Embassy, New Delhi, Delhi will technically support the project through NGI.
Delegates:
i.On behalf of Arunachal Pradesh the MoU was signed by Repo Ronya (Secretary of  Science & Technology in the state) and  Rajinder Bhasin (a technical expert from NGI) signed for NGI.
ii.The MoU was signed  in the presence of Arunachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister(CM) Pema Khandu and Vivek Kumar who is the Senior advisor of the Norwegian embassy in New Delhi, Delhi.
Aim of the MoU:

• Aims to provide facilitating mechanism for both to work on mutually agreed, progressive and supportive activities.
• Aim to further the development in the field of Geotechnics and Rock Engineering through dealing complex sub-surface geological and geotechnical issued of Arunachal Pradesh.

FSSAI Introduces ‘Special Category’ to Promote Gender Equality in Food Biz

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) introduced a new provision of ‘Special Category’ in the online Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal to promote gender equality and equal opportunities for women and transgender entrepreneurs in the food business sector.
Key Points:
i.According to this provision, licensing and registration authorities will prioritize ‘Special Category’ applications in a manner that ensures a one-to-one ratio with regular applications until there are no pending applications in either category.
ii.The identification of these individuals will be done during the application submission process through Aadhaar/PAN (Permanent Account Number) authentication.
About FoSCoS:
i.FoSCoS, introduced in 2020 by FSSAI, is an enhanced version of Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS), launched in 2012 for issuance of pan-India FSSAI Licenses and Registration.
ii.FoSCoS is a cloud-based online platform offering multiple services to Food Business Operators (FBOs), including licensing, registration, and regulatory compliance.
About Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):
FSSAI is a statutory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare established under under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
Chairperson– Sudhansh Pant
Parent Ministry– Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Headquarter– New Delhi, Delhi
Established in 2008

IBM Signed 8 MoUs with departments of MoE & MSDE to Scale Digital Skills Training in IndiaOn September 27, 2023, IBM (International Business Machines Corporation) signed  8 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)  with the departments under the Ministry of Education (MoE), and Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to offer tailored courses to empower the Indian youths with future-ready digital skills.

• The signing of these MoUs were presided over by the Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, MoE and MSDE.

Focus of the Collaboration:
This partnership focus on the co-creation of curriculum and access to IBM SkillsBuild,  learning platform of IBM, for learners across school education, higher education, and vocational skills on emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence(AI) (including generative AI), Cybersecurity, cloud computing, and professional development.
What is in the MoUs?
IBM’s collaboration with MoE and MSDE spans following three levels of education:
i.School Education: Provide access to digital content and skills training from IBM SkillsBuild for high school students, teachers, and trainers in schools selected by Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) and NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling).

• This will be offered online (webinars) and in-person workshops.
• IBM will also work on CBSE’s AI curriculum for Grades 11 and 12, develop a cyber skilling and blockchain curriculum for high school students to be hosted on IBM SkillsBuild.

ii.Higher Education: IBM, through its CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) implementation partners, will work with the Department of Higher Education, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (NIELIT), National Institute of Technical Teachers’ Training & Research (NITTTR), Chandigarh and state skilling missions to offer digital content and skills development opportunities to students and faculty in technical fields through IBM SkillsBuild.
iii.Vocational Skills: Working with MSDE, Directorate General of Training (DGT), and state vocational departments to empower job seekers, including the long-term unemployed and school dropouts, with technical and professional skills through IBM SkillsBuild for workforce re-entry.

CBG, Biogas Plants Registered on GOBARdhan Portal to Get Financial Assistance
The Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plants and biogas plants registered on the Unified Registration Portal for Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan)  are eligible for financial assistance under the Market Development Assistance (MDA) scheme of the Department of Fertilizers under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers(MoC&F).

• Unified Registration Portal for GOBARdhan was introduced by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, to streamline the registration of CBG plants and biogas plants across India. The DDWS is the Nodal Department for GOBARdhan.
• As of September 2023, 1,163 biogas plants and 426 CBG plants registered on the portal.

The MDA scheme has been launched with a budget of Rs. 1451.82 crore over a three-year term (FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-26) to encourage the production and use of organic fertilizers derived from GOBARdhan plants.

• Through the scheme, these plants get Rs. 1500 per metric ton(MT) for the sale of Fermented Organic Manure (FOM)/ Liquid Fermented Organic Manure (LFOM)/ Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM) produced at their BG/CBG plants under the GOBARdhan initiative.

Indian Army Participates Counter Terrorism Field Training Exercise 2023 of ADMM Plus EWG Indian Army participates in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations(ASEAN) Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Plus Expert Working Group (EWG) on Counter Terrorism Field Training Exercise (FTX) 2023.

• The exercise takes place from 25th to 30th September 2023 in Primorsky Region of Russia.
• The main objective of the exercise is strengthening and promoting regional cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism.
• Indian Army is represented by a Contingent consisting of 32 personnel from 14th Battalion affiliated with the Rajputana Rifles.
• The ADMM-Plus is a platform for ASEAN and its eight Dialogue Partners Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States of America(USA).

About Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN):
Secretary General – Dr Kao Kim Hourn
Headquarters – Jakarta, Indonesia
Established – 1967

UNDP Launches Innovative e-Learning Programme on Sustainable FinanceThe United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched an innovative e-Learning Programme as a proactive response to the increasing global need to support and enhance sustainable finance.

• This initiative, led by the Sustainable Finance Hub’s (SFH) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Finance Academy, aims to share UNDP’s extensive knowledge on sustainable finance with global practitioners.

Sustainable Finance:
Sustainable finance is the basis of SDG ambitions, empowering individuals worldwide to align funds with national SDG targets and crafting a universal sustainable finance framework for the benefit of all.
About the e-Learning Programme:
i.The open-access e-Learning Programme is available to anyone with an Internet connection.
ii.It comprises 10 comprehensive module that offers fundamentals of sustainable finance and advanced explorations in key areas of SDG.

• The modules include budgeting, taxation, thematic bonds and insurance for the SDGs, accessing capital for SDG investment, establishing SDG investment project pipelines, and more.

iii.The SDG Finance Academy envisions broadening collaboration channels for a global sustainable finance community in the next phase, to support development financing’s impact.
Click here to know more
Sustainable Finance Hub (SFH):
i.The UNDP’s SFH has played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable finance initiatives.
ii.SFH introduced the SDG Finance Academy, a strategic program aimed at equipping its extensive workforce and national partners with sustainable finance knowledge.
iii.As a direct outcome of the SDG Finance Academy, Uruguay became the first-ever nation to issue a sovereign bond aligned with the UN SDGs.
Analysis to achieve SDG targets:
i.The UN SDG Report 2021 revealed a distressing increase in extreme poverty, reversing decades of progress. This increase in poverty is a significant setback to achieving SDG 1 (“No Poverty”).

• Projections suggest that the global poverty rate may rise to 7%, further complicating efforts to eliminate poverty by 2030.

UNFPA India and IIPS Releases India Ageing Report 2023 United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India, along with the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), unveiled ‘Caring for Our Elders Institutional Responses: India Ageing Report 2023’.
i.The India Ageing Report 2023 represents a thorough review of the living conditions and welfare of older individuals in India.
ii.Senior citizen occupies 10% of India’s population. By 2036, it will be 14.36%. In 2050 it will be 20.8%
iii.The report highlights  that women had higher life expectancy at the age of 60 and at the 80, when compared to men( with variations across States and Union Territories)
iv.The report suggest for enhanced geriatric care to address the unique healthcare requirements of old aged people.
v.This report is an important resource for scholars, policymakers, program managers, and all stakeholders involved in elder care.
About United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA):
Executive Director – Natalia Kanem
Headquarters – New York, United States of America (USA)
Established in –  1969 (as the United Nations Fund for Population Activities. Later its the name was changed to the United Nations Population Fund in 1987)

ECI & Election Commission of Seychelles Signed MoU for Cooperation in Electoral Management
Electoral Commission of Seychelles (ECS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Election Commission of India (ECI) for cooperation to enhance electoral management and administration.

The MoU was signed by Danny Lucas, Chairperson of the ECS, and Rajiv Kumar, chief election commissioner of ECI.

• This MoU will support improving electoral management and administration, building on shared experience, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge.
• This will also strengthen exchange of best practices in election management and training of officials.

Previously,  CEC Rajiv Kumar visited Bhutan on 26th April 2023 and held Bilateral discussions with Dasho Sonam Topgay, Chief Election Commissioner of Bhutan, on the collaboration on human resource development, research & training, and leveraging technological advancements to strengthen election management.

Kotak Mahindra AMC Partners With CBSE to launch Investor Education and Awareness InitiativeKotak Mahindra Asset Management Company Limited(KMAMCL) in collaboration with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched an Investor Education and Awareness Initiative called “Seekho Paiso ki Bhasha”. 

• The initiative aims to promote financial literacy among CBSE teachers in affiliated schools nationwide by conducting a series of educational and awareness programs.

Working:
i.As part of the initiative, 75,000 educators(50% of them being women educators) will be inculcated with the financial knowledge.

• To raise awareness among teachers, 1,000 financial literacy programs  will be conducted in  September and October 2023 in 100 different locations across India.
• To promote equitable growth and development, female educators are given equal consideration.

ii.The program will be taken care by 500 skilled trainers from the Centre for Investment Education and Learning (CIEL) which is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
iii.Upon completion of the program, Kotak Mutual Fund aims to reach over 75,000 CBSE teachers.
About Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company Limited:
Group President & Managing Director – Nilesh Shah
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established in – 1985
About Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE):
Chairperson – Nidhi Chhibber
Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi
Established in –1929 (started as the Board of High School and Intermediate Education. In 1952, it reached the national level and  was reconstituted as CBSE in 1962)

Motilal Oswal Nifty 500 ETF: Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund launches India’s 1st Nifty 500 ETF Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund launched India’s first Nifty 500 ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) “Motilal Oswal Nifty 500 ETF”, an open-ended scheme replicating/tracking the Nifty 500 Total Return Index.

• Its New Fund Offer (NFO) is available for subscription until September 29, 2023.
• The scheme will benchmark its performance against the Nifty 500 Total Return Index.
• It will be managed by Swapnil Mayekar and Rakesh Shetty.

Objective:
To closely match the Nifty 500 Total Return Index’s returns, while accounting for tracking error but before accounting for expenses.
Key Points:
i.This fund is ideal choice for investors seeking long-term capital growth.
ii.Investors can join with just Rs 500 per plan/option and invest in multiples of Re 1, with no upper investment limit.
iii.The minimum amount for purchase/redemption would be in creation unit size of 20,00,000 units and in multiples thereof. Units once redeemed/repurchased will not be re-issued.
iv.Typically, the scheme will primarily invest in Nifty 500 Index constituents, making up 95-100% of total assets. It may also allocate up to 5% to low-risk instruments like liquid schemes and money market instruments.
iv.There are no charges for investing, and no exit load applies.
Additional info:
The scheme will re-open for continuous sale and repurchase within five business days from the date of allotment.
About Motilal Oswal Asset Management Company Ltd. (MOAMC): 
It is the Investment Manager to Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund.
MD & CEO– Navin Agarwal
Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra

Google Introduces Android Earthquake Alerts System in IndiaGoogle has introduced its Android Earthquake Alerts System in India in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), and the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

• This partnership will aid in Central Government efforts in providing timely earthquake alerts and safety information.

About Android Earthquake Alerts System:
i.Android users with devices running Android 5 or newer will receive the feature.

• To receive alerts, users must have Wi-Fi and/or cellular data connectivity, and both Android Earthquake Alerts and location settings enabled.

ii.This system utilizes the built-in sensors in Android smartphones, which are known as accelerometers, which can function as mini seismometers.
How does it work?
When a plugged-in and charging Android phone detect earthquake tremors, they send data to a central server. If multiple phones in the area detect similar shaking, the server estimates the earthquake’s details and sends rapid alerts to nearby Android devices. These user-friendly alerts, available in multiple Indian languages, often reach users before stronger shaking.

• These alerts travel along the internet at the speed of light

Key Points:
i.There are two types of alerts: Be Aware and Take Action. Be Aware alerts provide information for light shaking. Take Action alerts to get your attention for moderate to heavy shaking.
ii.Previously, Google has collaborated with the NDMA to offer users safety information regarding natural disasters such as floods and cyclones through Google Search and Maps.
About National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):
Headed by the Prime Minister (PM) of India, it is the apex body for Disaster Management in India.
Chairperson– Narendra Modi
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi

Narwhal/Hai Kun: Taiwan launches its 1st Domestically Made Submarine On 28th September 2023, President of Taiwan Tsai Ing-wen launched Taiwan’s 1st domestically built submarine named “Hai Kun” during a ceremony at the submarine’s shipyard in its southern Kaohsiung city, Taiwan.

• Hai Kun means “mythical sea creature” in Chinese and it is dubbed as ‘Narwhal‘ in English.

Highlights:
i.Hai Kun is built with an outlay of Taiwan Dollar (T$) 49.36 billion (USD1.53 billion).
ii.It will use a combat system by Lockheed Martin Corp and carry US (United States)-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes.
iii.The diesel-electric powered submarine will undergo several tests and will be delivered to the navy by the end of 2024.

• Hai kun will undergo a harbor acceptance test on October 1 2023, followed by a sea acceptance test.

iv.The submarine will enter service in 2025, and join the fleet of two existing submarines purchased from the Netherlands in the 1980s.
Additional info:
i.Taiwan’s Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS) program has targeted to buil one domestically developed submarine by 2025 and another by 2027.
ii.These will be deployed in the waters around Taiwan and the area from Suao in Yilan to Yonaguni Island in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture.
About Taiwan:
President– Tsai Ing-wen
Capital– Taipei
Currency– New Taiwan dollar

China launches “Yaogan-33 04” Remote Sensing Satellite
China launched a remote-sensing satellite, “Yaogan-33-04,” also known as Yaogan 33D carried off by a Long March-4C carrier rocket from the Jiuquan satellite launch center in northwest China.

• Yaogan-33 04 was developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology. The Long March-4C is a three-stage launch vehicle fueled by liquid propellant.
• The information from the “Yaogan-33 04” satellite will be used for scientific experiments, land resource surveys, crop yield estimates, and disaster prevention and relief work.
• The launch marks China’s 45th rocket launch in 2023 and the 489th flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series.

Remote Sensing Satellite is a satellite designed to gather data about the Earth’s surface and atmosphere using sensors to detect and measure various characteristics such as temperature, vegetation, and pollution.

Scientists Discover New Pangolin Species Named “Manis Mysteria”
Scientist has identified a new Pangolin species, tentatively named “Manis mysteria” through the analysis of 27 scales confiscated in Hong Kong in 2012 and 2013. This new species becomes the 9th pangolin species and the 5th Asian pangolin.

• The 8 extant species of pangolins, classified into three genera: Manis(Asia), Phataginus(Africa), and Smutsia(Africa).
• The finding was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences(PNAS).

Pangolins are nocturnal mammals that dig burrows, feed on ants and termites, and have scales made of keratin that cover their entire body.

• Pangolin is the world’s most trafficked mammal and its scales are coveted for use in traditional medicine.
• Since 2014, all 8 pangolin species are classified as threatened with extinction on The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

World Rabies Day 2023- September 28 World Rabies Day (WRD) is annually observed across the globe on 28 September to raise awareness of rabies prevention and to highlight progress in defeating this horrifying disease. The day also aims to advocate for rabies elimination globally.

• 28th September 2023 marks the 17th observance of WRD.

The 2023 theme of WRD is, “Rabies: All for 1, One Health for All“.
Background:
i.In 2007, World Rabies Day was established by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), a non-profit organization aimed to eliminate human deaths from dog rabies by 2030, and later endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• It is an event designed to be inclusive, uniting people, organizations, and stakeholders across all sectors against rabies.

ii.The first WRD was observed on 28 September 2007.

World Maritime Day 2023- September 28The United Nations (UN)’s World Maritime Day (WMD) is annually observed on the last Thursday of September  to recognize the contribution of the people who work in the maritime industry.

• World Maritime Day (WMD) 2023, the 46th World Maritime Day, observed on 28th September 2023.

The theme for World Maritime Day 2023 is ” MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on”.

• The WMD 2023 marks 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Govt Introduced New Set of National Awards in the Field of Science, Tech & Innovation
The Government of India(GoI) introduced Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP), a new set of National Awards in the field of Science, Technology and Innovation.

• The objective of the award is to recognize the notable and inspiring contribution made by scientists, technologists, and innovators individually or in teams in various fields of science, technology and innovation.
• RVP is set to be given in four distinct categories: Vigyan Ratna (VR) award; Vigyan Shri (VS) award; Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY–SSB) award and Vigyan Team (VT) award

About Ministry of Science and Technology:
Ministers of State (independent Charges) – Dr. Jitendra Singh (Constituency – Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir)

WHO Report: India’s Ultra Food-Processing Sector grew at 13.37% CAGR  from 2011-2021i.According to the  World Health Organization (WHO)’s report titled “Growth of ultra-processed foods in India- An analysis of trends, issues and policy recommendations”,  India’s Ultra-Processed Food Sector grew at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.37 % in retail sales value from 2011 to 2021.
ii.This report has been developed by the WHO Country Office for India in collaboration with the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER).
iii.As per the British Heart Foundation, Ultra-processed foods are items with long shelf lives that usually contain five or more ingredients, including preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and artificial colors and flavors.
About World Health Organization (WHO):
Director-General– Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
Establishment– 1948

INS ‘Nireekshak‘ Successfully Conducts Vital Mixed Gas Diving Training Sessions As Part Of IN-SLN Divex 23Indian Naval Ship (INS) Nireekshak(A-15), the Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel (DSRV) of the Indian Navy successfully conducted vital Mixed Gas Diving training sessions.

• This is a part of eight-day diving training deployment exercise(14-21st September 2023) IN-SLN Divex 23 between India and Sri Lanka.
• This is aligned with India’s ‘Neighborhood First‘ policy for capacity building in neighbouring nations.

Mixed Gas Diving:
Mixed gas diving involves the use of breathing gases other than the standard air mixture of approximately 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen.

• The purpose of using mixed gases in diving is to extend dive times, increase safety, and allow divers to explore deeper underwater environments.

Other Activities Carried Out:
The diving teams of both the Navies participated in diving exercises towards enhancing interoperability, cohesiveness and exchange of Best Practices.
About INS Nireekshak:
i.The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art diving systems and is capable of undertaking Saturation and Submarine rescue dives.

• INS Nireekshak is well-equipped with two six-man recompression chambers and a three-man diving bell.

ii.It is fitted with a Dynamic Positioning System (DPS)  to maintain precise position during Submarine Rescue/ Diving and Salvage operations.
iii.The ship was built by Mazgaon Shipbuilders in 1985 &  has been in service with the Navy since 1989.

• It was re-commissioned in 1995(after the modifications).

iv.INS Nireekshak holds the record for the deepest dive (to a depth of 257 metres) carried out in India.
v.The Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Harikumar awarded the ship an ‘on the spot’ Unit Citation, a first in the Indian Navy.
ICG Pollution-Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prahari’ Carries Out Pollution Response Table-Top Exercise in Bangkok
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Pollution-Control Vessel(PCV) ‘Samudra Prahari’ carried out a Pollution Response Table-Top exercise and demonstration at Khlong Toei Port in Bangkok, Thailand.

• The exercise is part of events held during the four day visit(17-20th September 2023) of the vessel to Bangkok.
• The exercise devised and tested Thailand’s Maritime Pollution Response contingency plan in collaboration with the ICG.
• The exercise fostered knowledge sharing and an interactive environment among the services, to cooperate during real-life oil pollution scenarios.

Other Events:
The beach cleaning activity  was carried out as a part of the Puneet Sagar Abhiyan.

• It a nationwide flagship campaign of National Cadet Corps (NCC) to clean sea shores of plastic & other waste material, while raising awareness about the importance of cleanliness.

About Samudra Prahari:
i.The Indian Coast Guard Ship Samudra Prahari has embarked on an overseas deployment to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries from 11th September 2023 to 14th October, 2023.
ii.The Samudra-class Pollution Control Vessel is a class of three vessels built by the ABG Shipyard Limited in Gujarat for ICG.

• The ship was commissioned in 2010.

iii.The vessel is outfitted with advanced pollution control gear, including containment tools like Hi-Sprint Booms and river booms to contain oil spills recovery devices.
iv.The ship is also equipped with a Chetak Helicopter in Pollution Response configuration.

India Global Forum and World Governments Summit Launch Emerging Economies ProgramOn September 20, 2023, London, United Kingdom (UK)-based India Global Forum (IGF) and World Governments Summit (WGS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop an Emerging Economies Programme.

• This partnership will also allow the IGF to join WGS’s knowledge partners around the Globe.
• It will also foster international cooperation and sharing best practices.

Signatories:
It was signed by the Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman of IGF and Mohamed al Sharhan, Managing Director(MD) of WGS, in the presence of Omar Sultan Al Olama, United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence(AI) and Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, Vice-Chair of the WGS Organization.
About Emerging Economies Programme:
i.High-level discussions: The initiative will facilitate discussions on sustainable economic growth, geo-economic perspectives, and innovative solutions, involving government officials, business leaders, economists, and experts.
ii.Global South development: It aims to promote sustainable economic growth and development in the Global South.

• Research will be conducted on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the Global South, progressively enhancing regional data for future governments.

iii.The initiative seeks to integrate global efforts, keeping pace with new trends and enabling effective responses to evolving challenges.
About World Governments Summit (WGS) Organization:
It is a global, neutral, non-profit organization dedicated to shaping the future of governments.
Chairman– Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi
Headquarters– Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Establishment– 2013

Meta Launches UPI Payments For WhatsApp Business Messaging in India
Meta(formerly known as Facebook) Chief Executive Officer(CEO) Mark Zuckerberg announced the launch of Unified Payment Interface (UPI) payments for WhatsApp Business in India. This allows customers to pay businesses directly on the Whatsapp Chat application using their preferred UPI option.

• The announcement was virtually in the Meta Conversations event focusing on WhatsApp Business, held at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• The accepted payment methods include Pay on WhatsApp, credit/debit cards, netbanking, Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm and more UPI options.
• The initial payment partners are RazorPay and PayU.

WhatsApp’s payments solution was released in Singapore(May 2023) and Brazil(April 2023).

SJVN & PFC Signed MoU for RE & Thermal Projects Worth Rs 1.18 Lakh Crores
SJVN Ltd (formerly known as Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Power Finance Corporation Ltd (PFC), India’s leading Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC), to finance renewable and thermal energy Projects worth Rs. 1,18,826 crore.

• The project includes renewable energy(RE) ventures (Solar, Hydro and Pumped Storage) with a total capacity of around 12178 Megawatt(MW) along with 660 MW Thermal generation project.
• PFC will fund around 67-76% of the project tentatively. The proposed fun in the form of term loan will range from  Rs 80000 crore to Rs 90000 crore. The funds may be further increased to accommodate the specific requirements of the RE projects as per project requirements.
• The MoU was signed by Manoj Sharma, Director (Commercial), PFC, and Akhileshwar Singh, Director (Finance), SJVN.

i.SJVN Ltd is a Mini Ratna Schedule A Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Power. It is involved in hydroelectric power generation and transmissionin.

• SJVN, established in 1988 is a joint venture (JV) between the Government of India (GOI) and Government of Himachal Pradesh.

ii.PFC Ltd is a Maharatna CPSE incorporated on July 16th, 1986, under the Ministry of Power.

NMC India Gets World Federation for Medical Education Recognition Status for 10 YearsThe National Medical Commission (NMC) of India has been awarded the Recognition Status by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) for a period of 10 years with immediate effect.

• As part of this recognition, all the 706 existing medical colleges in India will become WFME accredited and the new medical colleges, set up in the coming 10 years will automatically become WFME accredited.

Note: The WFME programme of Recognition of Accrediting Agencies was established following the 2005.
Significance of WFME Recognition Status:
This will enhance the quality and standards of medical education in India and align Indian medical education with global best practices and benchmarks.
This status will boost the international standing and reputation of Indian medical schools and healthcare professionals.
This will facilitate academic collaborations, and exchanges, and encourage continuous improvements and innovations in medical education.
Benefits:
This recognition allows Indian medical graduates to pursue postgraduate (PG) training and practice medicine in countries that require WFME accreditation including the United States of America (USA), Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
This will make India as an attractive destination for international students due to its globally recognized standards.
With NMC being WFME accredited all Indian students become eligible to apply for the Education Commission on Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
WFME Recognition Programme:
i.The WFME Recognition Programme follows the same principles as a medical school accreditation system: evaluation of documentation, policies and procedures; a site visit; and a decision taken by an independent committee with reference to pre-defined criteria.
ii.This aims to raise the standards of medical education worldwide, through ensuring that national and regional accrediting agencies are acting in an appropriate, robust and transparent way.
About Education Commission on Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG):
i.Established in 1956, ECFMG is a world leader in promoting quality health care and the primary body responsible for overseeing policies and regulations related to licensing International Medical Graduates (IMGs).
ii.ECFMG Certification is a requirement for IMGs to take the USMLE and obtain an unrestricted license to practice medicine in the USA.
About National Medical Commission (NMC):
Chairman– Dr. Suresh Chandra Sharma
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
NMC has been constituted by an act of Parliament known as the National Medical Commission Act, 2019 which came into force on September 25, 2020.
About World Federation for Medical Education (WFME):
President– Professor Ricardo León-Bórquez
Registered office–  Worcester, England (United Kingdom) and Ferney-Voltaire, France
WFME is the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) in official relation with the World Health Organization(WHO) representing medical education and medical schools worldwide.
WFME was founded in 1972 by the World Medical Association (WMA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

CCI Approvals on September 20, 2023On September 20, 2023, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the following proposals:

• CCI approves acquisition of additional unit holding in Highways Infrastructure Trust by 2452991 Ontario Limited and acquisition of equity stake in Highway ConcessionsOne Private Limited (HC One) by 2743298 Ontario Limited
• CCI approves certain shareholding in TVS Credit Services Limited by PI Opportunities along with certain Individuals
• CCI approves acquisition of approximately 24.16% of total equity shareholding in Quality Care India Limited by Centella Mauritius Holdings Limited
• CCI approves acquisition of 72.49% stake (approx.) in Quality Care India by BCP Asia II

About Competition Commission of India (CCI)
CCI is a statutory body within the Ministry of Corporate Affairs
It is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act, 2002
Chairperson – Ravneet Kaur
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi
Established – 2009

HDFC AMC Gets RBI Approval to Acquire Upto 9.5% Stake in KVB, DCB BankHDFC Asset Management Company Limited(HDFC AMC) received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to acquire additional holdings of up to 9.5% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of Karur Vysya Bank Limited(KVB) and DCB Bank Limited.

• The approval has been granted with reference to the application made by HDFC AMC to RBI.
• The holding of HDFC AMC in both the banks should not exceed (individually) 9.5 % of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of the Bank at all times.

Conditions in acquisition of KVB:
RBI instructed HDFC AMC not to reduce the shareholding below 5% without prior approval from RBI.

• If the aggregate holding falls below 5%, prior approval of RBI will be required to increase it to 5% or more of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of the Bank.

Conditions in acquisition of DCB Bank:
The RBI has given HDFC AMC one year time to buy the shares of DCB Bank.

• If HDFC AMC does not buy the shares within one year, the RBI’s approval will be cancelled.

Compliance:
The approval granted by RBI is subject to compliance with

• Relevant provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949
• RBI’s master direction and guidelines on the acquisition and holding of shares or voting rights in banking companies dated January 16, 2023
• Provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999
• Regulations issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

About Karur Vysya Bank Limited:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – B. Ramesh Babu
Headquarters – Karur, Tamil Nadu
Established in – 1916
Tagline – Smart Way to Bank
About DCB Bank Limited:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Murali M. Natrajan
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established in – 1930
Tagline – We Value You
About HDFC Asset Management Company(AMC) Limited :
HDFC AMC was established in 2000 and firm registered with Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
Joint Venture Formation: In 2001, a strategic joint venture was established between HDFC Limited and abrdn Investment Management Limited (formerly Standard Life Investments Limited).
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Navneet Munot
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra

Agri Secretary Manoj Ahuja Launches Mobile App & Web Portal for GCES to Revolutionize Farming PracticesOn September 21, 2023, Manoj Ahuja, Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoAFW) launched the mobile application and the web portal for General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES) to transform agricultural practices across India.

• This development has been made to enhance the reach, scope, and outcome of government actions in the course of development.
• The piloting of the app and portal is planned in 12 States and will be rollout by 3rd week of October 2023.
• All states are urged to adopt GCES portal and application to ensure creditability.

Developer:
The portal and the mobile application of GCES has been developed by the DA&FW.
Key Points:
i.With this launch, GCES will become automatic as field data will be collected using GPS (Global Positioning System) enabled mobile application and will be stored in the server which ensures on time reporting of crop statistics.

• Till date data collection, compilation and yield estimation is fully manual process which cause delay in reporting by states.

ii.GPS-enabled devices offer precise latitude and longitude coordinates, ensuring data integrity and eliminating manipulation in location-based data collection
iii.The portal and app store detailed yield data by village, including crop experiment information and harvest weights.

• Agencies involved in conducting Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) in different states are Revenue Department, Agriculture Department and Directorate of Economics &Statistics.

iv.The app’s geo-referencing feature ensures data accuracy and transparency by mapping plot boundaries and uploading photos.

Hindustani Classical Vocalist Malini Rajurkar Passed Away
Malini Rajurkar, a noted Hindustani classical vocalist and one of the foremost exponents of Gwalior Gharana passed away at the age of 82 in Hyderabad, Telangana. She was born in 1941 in Ajmer, Rajasthan.

• She has received several awards, including the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi award in 2001 for her contribution to Hindustani vocal music.
• She has performed in major music festivals in India, including Gunidas Sammelan (Mumbai), Tansen Samaroh (Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh), Sawai Gandharva Festival (Pune, Maharashtra), and Shankar Lal Festival (Delhi).
• Her collaboration with Pune-based Alurkar Music House resulted in numerous noted albums like “Birj Yuvati Sang Racho Rang Raas” in Raga ‘Maru Bihag’ that describes the traditional “Raas Leela”.
• In the 1990s, she immortalised the traditional slow-tempo composition “Peer Na Jaani”, in Raga ‘Malkauns’.

ECI releases Comic Books to Create Awareness About Elections Among Children
The Election Commission of India (ECI) under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation(SVEEP) program released a  comic book  ‘Chacha Chaudhary aur Chunavi Dangal’ to spread awareness about elections, voting and the electoral process to children. The comic features 10 shot stories on electoral aspects.

• The comics book is a joint initiative of ECI & Pran Comics.
• The book uses the comic characters such as Chacha Chaudhary, Sabu, Raaka, Dhamaka Singh and Billoo.
• ECI will distribute 30,000 copies for free among children.The copies of the comic books will also be available digitally.

SVEEP is a flagship program of the ECI for voter education, spreading voter awareness, and promoting voter literacy.

• Its primary goal is to build a truly participative democracy in India by encouraging all eligible citizens to vote and make an informed decision during the elections.

World Rhino Day 2023- September 22 World Rhino Day is annually observed across the globe on 22 September to raise awareness about the terrible situation of Rhinoceros or Rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) and emphasise the steps to conserve its population.

• The day is dedicated to celebrating all 5 species of Rhinos namely white and black rhinos in Africa, and the greater one-horned, Javan, and Sumatran rhino species in Asia.

Background:
i.In 2010, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – South Africa announced World Rhino Day, a national crisis to create awareness about the importance of saving these animals.
ii.Since 2011, World Rhino Day has been celebrated internationally on September 22nd every year.
iii.The observance was initiated by two dedicated conservationists namely Lisa Jane Campbell from the Chishakwe Ranch in Zimbabwe and Rhishja Cota-Larson from Saving Rhinos in the United States of America (USA).

World Rose Day for Cancer Patients 2023 – September 22 World Rose Day, also known as the Day for Welfare of Cancer Patients is annually observed across the globe on 22 September and is dedicated to cancer patients all across the globe and also encourages and acknowledges cancer survivors all over the world.

• The day aims to bring happiness and hope into the lives of such patients and reminds them that they can emerge victorious in their battle against cancer through determination and positivity.

Note: Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue.
Background:
i.The origin of World Rose Day is credited to a 12-year-old Canadian girl named Melinda Rose, who was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer (Askin’s Tumor) in 1994.
ii.The day is reportedly observed in memory of Melinda Rose, who passed away from the disease in 1996.

World Car-Free Day – September 22World Car-Free Day is annually observed the cities across the globe on 22nd September to encourage motorists to give up their cars for a day. The day also highlights the benefits of being car-free such as reduced air pollution and the promotion of walking and cycling in a safer environment.
History of World Car Free Day
i.The idea for World Car Free Day came after the petroleum crisis of 1973, when people started to look for ways to reduce their dependence on cars.
ii.The first national car-free day campaign was launched in Britain in 1997.

• In 2000, World Car Free Day went global with programs launched by Carbusters (now World Carfree Network) and the Earth Day Network.

iii.An international carfree day was organised in Europe in 1999, which was the pilot project for the European Union’s “In Town Without My Car” campaign. This campaign continues as European Mobility Week.
About West Bengal:
Chief Minister – Mamata Banerjee
Governor – C. V. Ananda Bose
Wildlife Sanctuary – Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary, Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Reserve – Buxa Tiger Reserve, Sundarban Tiger Reserve

27th September

Introduction:
Every year on September 27th, the world comes together to celebrate World Tourism Day. This special day is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of tourism and its impact on our lives, economies, and cultural exchange. It’s a time to appreciate the joy of exploring new places, immersing ourselves in different cultures, and experiencing the wonders this world has to offer. So, let’s dive into the significance of World Tourism Day and why it’s a celebration of wanderlust and adventure.

Embracing Cultural Exchange:
World Tourism Day is a reminder of the intrinsic value of cultural exchange. By venturing to new destinations, we have the chance to learn, appreciate, and be inspired by diverse customs, traditions, and people. Whether it’s savoring exotic cuisines, engaging in local festivals, or participating in age-old rituals, travel allows us to break free from our comfort zones and embrace the beauty of humanity’s rich tapestry.

Boosting Local Communities:
Travel and tourism play a vital role in stimulating local economies worldwide. From bustling cities to remote villages, World Tourism Day reminds us of the economic benefits that come with the influx of visitors. Tourism provides employment opportunities, boosts local businesses, and rejuvenates communities. By exploring lesser-known destinations and supporting local artisans, we can make a lasting impact and help foster sustainable development.

Preserving Natural and Cultural Heritage:
As we marvel at magnificent landmarks and breathtaking landscapes, World Tourism Day highlights the importance of responsible tourism. It urges us to embrace sustainable practices, reducing our ecological footprint, and safeguarding the delicate balance of nature. By being conscious travelers, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience the wonders of our world.

Unleashing the Adventurer Within:
Travel ignites the spirit of adventure within us. It allows us to break free from our routines and venture into the unknown. World Tourism Day encourages us to embrace the thrill of exploration, unravel hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories. From backpacking through serene mountains to strolling along sun-kissed beaches, the possibilities for discovery are endless.

The Power of Travel in Shaping Our Perspectives:
Travel goes beyond simply visiting new places – it has the power to broaden our horizons and shift our perspectives. It demolishes stereotypes, fosters empathy, and enhances our understanding of the world. World Tourism Day celebrates the transformative power of travel, urging us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.

Conclusion:
As World Tourism Day arrives, let us celebrate the joy, wonder, and personal growth that comes with travel. As we explore new destinations and immerse ourselves in different cultures, let us remember to be responsible, respectful, and mindful of our impact. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations can continue to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this world we call home. So, here’s to World Tourism Day and the boundless adventures that await us!

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates ‘Udaan Bhawan’ and ‘E-wallet’ Facility in DelhiOn 18th September 2023, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), inaugurated ‘Udaan Bhawan,’ an Integrated Office Complex at Safdarjung Airport in Delhi and an e-wallet (Bharatkosh Advance Deposit) facility for MoCA.
Key People:
General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.), MoCA and Ministry of Road Transport, and Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, MoCA were also presented at the inauguration.
Regulatory Authorities of Indian Civil Aviation Sector:
i.Regulatory Authorities such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), play a vital role in the Civil Aviation sector by framing and implementing rules and regulations as per standards.
ii.Airports Authority of India (AAI) is the major airport operator responsible for construction, operations, providing Air traffic control (ATC) and Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) Services & maintenance at various airports across India.
About Udaan Bhawan:
i.The Udaan Bhawan, the New Integrated Office would allow all organisations to work together under the same roof and this would lead to better coordination between various regulatory authorities under MoCA such as DGCA, BCAS, AAIB, AERA, and AAI.
ii.The New Integrated Office Complex has G+3 levels constructed above ground and the rest 3 as basement levels and can accommodate 1270 officials.

• The total built-up area of the building is 71257 square meters (Sqm), built at a cost of Rs. 374.98 crore.

iii.The new building, emphasising its alignment with the Prime Minister’s call for ‘Sankalp se siddhi.’
Features:
i.The Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA)-5 rated building incorporating a range of eco-friendly features that align with environmental conservation.
ii.The building is designed for utilization of Daylight to the maximum extent possible.
iii.The environment-friendly features of the building include the use of efficient Light-Emitting Diode (LED) fixtures, glazed curtain-wall assembly, and a double-skin Façade System to minimize heat gain and recycling of wastewater.
iv.It also features modern amenities such as conference rooms, an Audio-Visual (AV) system, Information Technology (IT) infrastructure, a parking management system, a yoga room, a creche facility, and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging, among others.
E-Wallet Facility:
i.The e-wallet will be particularly useful for processing fees for various regulatory approvals in the Bharat Kosh portal.
ii.It will act as a prepaid wallet that would enable registered users to add funds in advance.

• Initially, only National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT)/Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) mode will be allowed for adding funds.

iii.The Bharat Kosh portal would allow a faster, quicker, more secure payment system through our civil aviation ministry.

Central Govt launches Kisan Rin Portal, WINDS Manual and Door to Door KCC CampaignOn September 19, 2023, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman , Ministry of Finance; and Union Minister  Narendra Singh Tomar, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoAFW), inaugurated Kisan Rin Portal (KRP), Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) Manual, and Door-To-Door Kisan Credit Card (KCC) campaign (Ghar-Ghar KCC Abhiyaan) during an event at Pusa Complex, New Delhi, Delhi.

• These initiatives are focused on Agri-credit (KCC & MISS) and Crop Insurance (PMFBY/RWBCIS).
• MISS stands for Modified Interest Subvention Scheme, PMFBY for Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and RWBCIS for Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme.

About Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA & FW):
Union Minister– Narendra Singh Tomar (Constituency-Morena, Madhya Pradesh)
Ministers of State– Sushri Shobha Karandlaje; Kailash Choudhary

UN WFP and IIT Bombay Partner to Improve Food Security, Nutrition, Climate Resilience, and Livelihoods
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IITB) in Mumbai( Maharashtra) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve food security, nutrition, climate resilience, and livelihoods in India.
Purpose of MoU:
i.To Establish a comprehensive knowledge management system to identify, analyze, and generate evidence related to food and nutrition security.
ii.To Develop an ecosystem for technology and innovations to support government food safety net programs.
iii.To Create real-time monitoring systems and dashboards using administrative data sets to generate actionable evidence on food and nutrition security.
The UN WFP, headquartered in Rome, Italy, was established in 1961. The current Executive Director of the WFP is Cindy H. McCain.

Swavlamban 2023: 2nd edition of Indian Navy’s NIIO Seminar Scheduled for 4&5 Oct 2023
The 2nd Edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation(NIIO) Seminar ‘Swavlamban 2023’ is scheduled to be held on October 4-5, 2023 in New Delhi, Delhi.

• The seminar will showcase 75 prototypes of indigenous technologies/products developed by start-ups under the ‘SPRINT Challenges’ initiative.

Note: The 1st edition of the seminar was held in July 2022 in New Delhi, Delhi. Prime Minister Modi launched 75 challenges for the start-ups/ MSMEs as a part of the ‘SPRINT’ initiative.
SPRINT is a collaborative initiative between the Indian Navy, Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), NIIO, and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC).

• It aims to boost the usage of indigenous technology in the Indian Navy.

Niche technologies being developed under the SPRINT Challenges include

• Blue-green lasers for underwater applications;
• Autonomous weaponized swarms and underwater swarm drones;
• Multiple firefighting aids;
• Introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for various uses;
• The development of an ultra-endurance small drone for maritime missions.

World Bank & UNICEF Report: Every second extreme poor in the world is a childAccording to the report “Global Trends in Child Monetary Poverty According to International Poverty Lines” prepared by the World Bank Group and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in 2022, children accounted for 52.5% of the total extreme poor population in the world i.e., every 2nd extreme poor person in the world is a child.

• About 11.5 %(52 million) of Indian children live in extremely poor households.

About the Report:
i.This was the third report by the World Bank and UNICEF, including their two reports in 2016 and 2020.
ii.The report presented estimated trends in child poverty from 2013 to 2022, based on three international poverty lines: USD 2.15 (extreme poverty), USD 3.65 (lower middle income), and USD 6.85 (upper middle income).

• The report was based on the new global poverty line adopted in September 2022, with the World Bank updating data on its Poverty and Inequality Platform.

Increasing Trends in Children Poverty:
i.The share of children in the extreme poor population is continuing to increase. it has increased from 47.3 in 2013 to 52.5% in 2022.
ii.In 2022, estimates of children in poverty around the world show

• 333 million children living in extreme poverty (USD2.15)
• 829 million children living in lower middle income (USD3.65)
• 1.43 billion children living in upper middle income (USD6.85)

Comparison of Poverty among Different Ages:
i.In 2022, 15.9 % of the world children population lived in extremely poor households as compared to 6.6 % of adults.
ii.Among the children, the poverty rate is the highest for the 0-5 year age group which is around 8.3 % (99 million) children living in extreme poor households.
iii.The average poverty gap for children under the age of 18 is higher (5.1%) than for adults (1.9%) at the USD 2.15 threshold.
Region Wise Analysis:
i.Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia have the highest numbers of poor children.

• Sub-Saharan Africa has the world’s highest rate of poverty among children, at 40%, whereas South Asia has 9.7%. 
• These two regions account for 90 % of the world’s extremely poor children.

Note:
Under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the world made a promise to end extreme child poverty by 2030.
Impact of Covid-19 on Child poverty:
i.Covid-19 breaks the trend of consistent decline in child poverty.

• As per the report, there would be a reduction of 68.4 million children in extreme poverty between 2013 and 2020, but only actually witnessed an estimated reduction of 29.2 million children, due to pandemic disruptions.

About United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF):
Executive Director – Catherine M. Russell
Headquarters – New York, United States of America(USA)
Established – 1943

IREDA Signs MoU With BoM to Finance Renewable Energy ProjectsIndian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)  has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) to promote and facilitate co-lending and loan syndication for renewable energy projects nationwide.

• Under this agreement, Bank of Maharashtra can invest in the Bonds issued by IREDA (in accordance with the specified terms and conditions of the offering).
• The MoU was signed in the presence of Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director(CMD) of IREDA.
• IREDA, a Mini Ratna (Category – I) Government of India enterprise under the administrative control of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

About MoU:
i.The MoU aims to provide a financial ecosystem for Green Energy projects along with several services including

• Co-lending and co-origination support for all renewable energy projects.
• Facilitation of loan syndication and underwriting.
• Management of Trust & Retention Account for IREDA borrowers.
• Commitment by BoM to lend IREDA with fixed interest rates spanning a period of 3-4 years.

ii.This collaboration will help to boost India’s green energy sector and support the country’s climate change goals.

• It paves a path to achieve India’s goal of Net Zero emissions by the year 2070.

India’s renewable energy Commitment:
i.India’s goal is to fulfill 50% of its energy demands using renewable sources by 2030.
ii.Achieving 500 GW(Giga-watt) of non-fossil electricity capacity and to reduce emissions by 1 billion tons by 2030
iii.India also aims to reduce the emissions intensity of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 45%.
Additional Info:
IREDA also signed many  MoUs with Public Sector Banks and Financial Institutions  to satisfy the funding requirement of the Renewable Energy projects like Green Hydrogen and Offshore Wind.
About Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)
Chairman and Managing Director(CMD) – Pradip Kumar Das
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi
Established in – 1987
About Bank of Maharashtra(BoM):
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – A S Rajeev
Headquarters- Pune,Maharashtra
Established in- 1935
Tagline – Ek Parivaar, Ek Bank (One Family One Bank)

Bharti AXA Life Insurance Launches New Mid-Cap Scheme Emerging Equity FundBharti AXA Life Insurance launched its new fund offering (NFO) called Bharti AXA Life Emerging Equity Fund. This is Bharti AXa’s first mid-cap fund launched with an aim to provide long-term capital appreciation through investing in a portfolio of mid-cap companies.

• Bharti AXA Life Insurance launched mid-cap fund after 13 years; The last launch of mid-cap fund was in 2010.

Process:
i.Investors can invest in Bharti AXA Life’s Emerging Equity Fund through three of Bharti AXA Life’s Unit Linked Insurance Plan(ULIP):

• Bharti AXA Life Wealth Pro
• Bharti AXA Life Grow Wealth
• Bharti AXA Life Wealth Maximizer

ii.Investors get access to the investment market with a relatively small initial investment and take advantage of the NFO’s base price, with the potential to earn significant long-term capital gains.
What is NFO?
NFO is the first subscription offering for any fund being launched by an investment company.
During an NFO, investors can purchase units of the mutual fund scheme at the face value, which is typically set at a fixed price usually of Rs. 10 per unit.
Mid-Caps:
i.According to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), companies that are ranked from 101 to 250 in terms of market capitalization are known as mid-cap companies.

• Mutual funds that hold stocks from the mid-cap are called ‘Mid-cap funds’.

ii.Mid-caps represent the future’s emerging blue-chip companies.
iii.Mid-cap funds are involved with more risk than large-cap funds but will yield good returns in the long run.
iv.Mid-cap stocks can complement both high-risk and low-risk investment strategies, offering investors a balance of stability and growth.
About Bharti AXA Life Insurance:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Parag Raja
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established in  – 2006

SBI Introduces Digital Opening of NRE/NRO Account Setup through YONO The State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced a digital facility for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to effortlessly open Non-Residential External (NRE) and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts (both savings and current accounts) through SBI’s mobile app YONO.

• This service is designed for New to Bank (NTB) customers as a one-stop solution for NRI banking needs to provide them with simplified, efficient, and accurate account opening process.

Note:
An NRE account is opened in India in the name of an NRI for his/her foreign earnings, while an NRO account is for managing income earned in India, such as rent, dividend, pension, and interest.
Key Points:
i.This service can be availed by the NRIs from their homes, eliminating the need for an in-person visit to India.
ii.Customers can track the status of their applications in real-time.
iii.SBI is the largest commercial bank in terms of assets, deposits, branches, customers, and employees.

• As of June 2023, the bank has a deposit base of over Rs. 45.31 lakh crore with a CASA (Current Account and Savings Account) ratio of 42.88% and advances of more than Rs. 33 lakh crores.

Process:
i.Download YONO SBI app
ii.Choose NRE/NRO account opening
iii.Submit KYC:

• Option 1 – at an SBI branch in India
• Option 2 – Attest the KYC documents by a Notary, Indian Embassy, High Commission, SBI Foreign Office, Representative Office, Court Magistrate, or Judge and mail to a designated branch.

About State Bank of India (SBI):
Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
Headquarters – Mumbai
Tagline – The Banker to Every Indian
Establishment – 1955

RBI Approved Re-appointment of Sashidhar Jagdishan as MD & CEO of HDFC BankReserve Bank of India(RBI) has approved re-appointment of Sashidhar Jagdishan as Managing Director(MD) and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of HDFC Bank  Limited  for a period of 3  years with effect from 27th October 2023 to  26th October 2026.

• He has been MD and CEO of the Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) Bank since October 2020, after he took charge from Aditya Puri(the bank’s longest serving CEO (26 years- since September 1994).

About Sashidhar Jagdishan:
i.Sashidhar Jagdishan joined HDFC Bank in 1996 as a Manager in the Finance function and became Business Head of finance in 1999.

• He was appointed as Chief Financial Officer in 2008.

ii.Prior to his appointment as MD & CEO, he was serving as the Group Head of Finance, Human Resources, Legal & Secretarial, Administration, Infrastructure, Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility.
Note:
HDFC Limited merged with HDFC Bank Limited in July 2023 and became India’s 2nd biggest company, behind Reliance Industries with respect to market capitalization.
About Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) Bank:
Chairman – Mr. Atanu Chakraborty
MD & CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan
Headquarters – Mumbai,Maharashtra
Established in – 1994
Tagline – We Understand Your World

Srinivasan K. Swamy elected as Chairman of Audit Bureau of Circulations
Srinivasan K. Swamy, Executive Chairman of R.K. Swamy Hansa Group, has been elected as the Chairman of the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) for the term 2023-2024. He replaced Pratap Pawar who served as Chairman for the term 2022-23.

• Srinivasan K. Swamy was the Deputy Chairman of the Bureau for the year 2022-2023.
• He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Advertising Agencies Association of India(AAAI) in 2016.
• He is currently serving as Chairperson of Asian Federation of Advertising Association.

Riyad Mathew, Chief Associate Editor and Director of Malayala Manorama Co. Ltd representing publisher members on the council, has been elected as the Deputy Chairman of ABC for 2023-2024.
The ABC founded in 1948 is a not for profit, voluntary organisation consisting of Publishers, Advertisers and Advertising Agencies.

‘Vibhav’: Indian Army Inducted 600 Self-neutralising Anti-tank Mines with Safety Mechanism The Indian Army has inducted Six hundred indigenously manufactured self-neutralising anti-tank mines, known as “Vibhav”, to provide mobility kill against all enemy armoured vehicles.

• The introduction of Vibhav into the Indian Army’s armoury enhanced their defences against enemy armoured vehicles and strengthened their overall operational capabilities.
• Vibhav, the point-attack anti-tank munition, was developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) in India. This mines have safety and actuation mechanisms to ensure operator safety.
• Vibhav is being manufactured by the Kalyani Group for the Indian Army.

Feature and Benefits of Vibhav:
i.The Vibhav anti-tank mine is composed of modern plastic, which gives it sufficient strength and durability to withstand storage, handling, and operating conditions in varying field environments.
ii.“Vibhav” can be laid either manually or mechanically, providing flexibility in deployment.
iii.Safety and actuation mechanisms have been incorporated into these mines to ensure operator safety and reliability.
iv.These mechanisms, along with integrated explosive, mechanical, and electronic features, make the Vibhav mines lethal against targets and effective against both current and future armoured vehicles.
v.The munition also incorporates an Electronic Anti-Handling and Anti-Lift Device (EAHALD) that, once armed, is operational for 120 days.
New Inclusion:
i.One significant improvement in the Vibhav mines is the inclusion of mechanical timers, allowing self-neutralization after 120 days.

• This feature adds an extra layer of safety and prevents the accidental handling or lifting of armed mines after their intended lifespan.

ii.The Vibhav mines have a storage life of 10 years and no unique storage needs.
MoD Clears Proposal to Buy ‘Pralay‘ Ballistic Missiles for Indian Army
The Ministry of Defence(MoD) has approved the proposal to procure a regiment of ‘Pralay’ tactical ballistic missiles with a range of 150 to 500 kilometers(Km) for the Indian Army.

• These missiles will be deployed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC), that is borders with China and Pakistan respectively.
• The missiles were developed by the DRDO. These missiles with conventional warheads will be using in tactical roles.
• ‘Pralay’ is powered by a solid propellant rocket motor and other new technologies. The missile guidance system includes state-of-the-art navigation and integrated avionics.

Features:
i.Pralay is a quasi-ballistic and will be the longest-range surface-to-surface missile in the inventory of the Army. It is capabale of being launched from a mobile launcher.
ii.The advanced missile has been developed in a way to be able to defeat interceptor missiles. It has the ability to change its path after covering a certain range in mid-air.
iii.It is capable of carrying a conventional warhead of about 350 to 700 kilograms (kg), which gives it a deadly punitive capability.
iv.It can also carry a high explosive preformed fragmentation warhead, Penetration-cum-Blast (PCB) and Runway Denial Penetration Submunition (RDPS).
Key Points:
i.The procurement follows a similar approval granted to the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the acquisition of these missiles.
ii.This missile system’s development commenced around 2015 and the acquisition of these missiles is part of a broader strategy to develop a strategic rocket force, a concept advocated by Chief of Defence Staff Late General Bipin Rawat.
iii.The missile was successfully tested twice on consecutive days on 21 and 22 December 2022.
iv.Pralay, along with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, will form the crux of India’s planned Rocket Force.
Note: It can be compared to China’s Dong Feng 12 and the Russian Iskander missile that has been used in the ongoing war with Ukraine.

Carlos Sainz Jr. wins the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023 Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz Vázquez de Castro (Carlos Sainz Jr.) of Spain won the Formula 1 (F1) Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2023 held in Marina Bay Street Circuit, Singapore.

• McLaren driver Lando Norris of the United Kingdom(UK) finished second while Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton of UK finished third position.

Winners of Singapore Grand Prix 2023:

• So far Max Verstappen has won 12 F1 Grand Prix in 2023 and still leads the season’s championship.
• The Singapore GP 2023 marks the first GP where Red Bull has been off the podium since the Brazilian Grand Prix in November 2022.

ii.This victory marks Carlos Sainz Jr. second career win in F1 including his victory at the 2022 British Grand Prix.
About Singapore Grand Prix 2023:
i.The 14th edition of the F1 Singapore Grand Prix was held from 15th to 17th September 2023.

• Singapore Grand Prix 2023 was the 15th round of the 2023 Formula One (F1) World Championship.

About the Marina Bay Circuit:

• Number of Laps – 62
• Circuit Length – 4.94 Km
• Race Distance -306.143 Km
• The First Singapore Grand Prix held at Marina Bay Circuit was on 2008.

About Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA)
The F1 Grand Prix races are organised by Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
President –  Mohammed Ben Sulayem
Headquarters – Paris, France
Established – 1904

Renowned Flautist & Padma Shri Awardee ‘Sikkil’ Neela from Passes AwayRenowned Flautist and Padma Shri  Awardee Sikkil Natesan Neela, the younger of the renowned ‘Sikkil Sisters’ duo from Tamil Nadu, passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu(TN).  She was born on 9th September 1938.

• The Sikkil Sisters perfected the ’gayaki’ style of playing Carnatic music on the flute.
• Sikkil Neela along with her sister Sikkil Kunjumani were top grade artist of All India Radio(AIR) and Doordarshan(DD).

About Sikkil Natesan Neela:
i.Her father was Azhiyur Natesa Iyer, a reputed mridangist.
ii.Sikkil sisters learnt to play the flute from their uncle Azhiyur Narayanaswamy Iyer, but Sikkil Kunjumani is Neela’s principal mentor and guide.
iii.In 1942, the then Kingdom of  Mysore awarded Neela and Kunjumani with the title ‘Venugana Praveena’.
Awards & Honours:
i.In 2004, the government of India honoured Neela with ‘Padma Shri’, the 4th Highest Civilian Award in India for her contribution in the field of art.
ii.The Music Academy, Madras of Chennai, Tamil Nadu conferred “Sangeetha Kalanidhi” to Sikkil Sisters in 2002.

• For the first time in the history of the Music Academy, 2 artistes have been awarded the title in the same year.
• This was also the first time for the academy to honour women flautists

iii.In 1984, they received ‘President Award’ from Sangeetha Natak Academy
Under the Ministry of Culture and in 1989, they received Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Carnatic Music (Instrumental).
vi.She received ‘Kalaimamani‘ award from Tamil Nadu Iyal, Isai, Nataka Mandram in 1973.
Additional info:
i.Elder sister Sikkil Kunjumani passed away in 2010
ii.Sikkil Natesan Neela’s daughter Sikkil Mala Chandrasekar is also a flautist.

Renowned Indina American Writer-Filmmaker Gita Mehta Passed Away
Gita Mehta, a Renowned Indian-American Writer-Filmmaker,  journalist and Author, passed away in New Delhi, Delhi. She was born in 1943 to Biju Patnaik, an independent activist and the 3rd Chief Minister of Orissa (now Odisha).  She is the elder sister of Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister(CM) of Odisha.

• She has authored several books including “Karma Cola”, “Snakes and Ladders: Glimpses of Modern India”, “A River Sutra”, “Raj”, and “Eternal Ganesha: From Birth to Rebirth”.
• In 2019, she was honoured with Padma Shri, India’s 4th highest civilian honour, in the “Foreigners” category for her outstanding contribution to the field of art and literature. She declined the award citing its timing ahead of the May 2019 Elections.
• She served as a war correspondent in Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) of US TV network NBC in 1970-1971. She complied her experience in the documentary titled “Dateline Bangladesh”.
• She also produced and directed around 14 television documentaries for UK, European and US networks.

World Water Monitoring Day 2023- September 18 World Water Monitoring Day (WWMD) is annually observed across the globe on 18 September to raise awareness about the significance of monitoring water sources regularly and to educate and recognise the importance of protecting the world’s water resources.
Note: Every year, around 150 countries come together to honour WWMD on September 18.
Background:
i.World Water Monitoring Day (WWMD) was proclaimed by America’s Clean Water Foundation (ACWF) as an international outreach program in 2003.

• The outreach program is intended to educate and involve citizens in the protection of water resources around the world.

ii.WWMD is officially celebrated on September 18. It was initially chosen to be a month later on October 18 to recognize the anniversary of the United States of America (US) Clean Water Act, which was enacted by the US Congress in 1972 to restore and protect America’s water resources.
iii.The Water Environment Federation (WEF) and the International Water Association (IWA) coordinate WWMD internationally.
About EarthEcho International (EarthEcho):
Executive Director– Mia DeMezza
Headquarters– Washington, D.C., USA
Founded in– 2005

International Week of Deaf People 2023- September 18 to 24International Week of Deaf People (IWDP) is annually observed across the globe during the last full week of September and concludes on the final Sunday of September. The IWDP week raises awareness about the rights of people who are deaf or hard of hearing/hearing impaired.

• The IWPD 2023 is observed from 18 to 24 September 2023.

The IWDP 2022 was observed from 19 to 25 September 2022 and the IWDP 2024 will be observed from 23 to 29 September 2024.

• The theme for IWDP 2023 is “A World Where Deaf People Everywhere Can Sign Anywhere!”.

Background:
i.The International Week of Deaf People (IWDP) is an initiative that was first launched by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) in 1958 in Rome, Italy.
ii.It is celebrated annually by the global Deaf Community on the last week of September to commemorate the same month (23 September 1951), the first World Congress of the WFD was held.
iii.Each year the WFD promotes awareness of human rights and sign language of the respective Deaf Communities worldwide by hosting a variety of events around the globe.
About World Federation of the Deaf (WFD):
President– Dr Joseph J. Murray
Headquarters– Helsinki, Finland
Founded on– 23 September 1951
WFD is an international non-governmental organization representing Deaf people worldwide. It is a federation of deaf organisations from 135 nations

AH&D Along with WOAH Collaborates to Strengthen One Health Approach for Pandemic PreparednessThe Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (AH&D) under the Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry & Dairying in collaboration with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) organized a multi-sectoral workshop titled “Risk-based management of spill over events in wildlife in India”

• The workshop aimed to strengthen the importance of a One Health approach, cross-sectoral collaboration, and pandemic preparedness.

About the workshop:
i.Four main objectives:

• Enhancing stakeholder knowledge about wildlife-origin disease risk analysis
• Conducting a comprehensive gap analysis of India’s risk assessment and management
• Simulating disease spillover scenarios
• Promoting communication and awareness among relevant stakeholders.

ii.The workshop comprised seven sessions, including two dedicated to risk analysis simulations (one for disease X and one specific to India).
What is One Health?
‘One Health’ is an integrated, unifying approach to balance and optimise the health of people, animals and the environment.

• It is particularly important to prevent, predict, detect, and respond to global health threats such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additional info:
i.COVID-19 showed countries need to be better prepared for future pandemics.
ii.WOAH is working with Quadripartite, including the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), to address these critical issues.
About Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying:
Union Minister – Parshottam Rupala (Rajya Sabha – Gujarat )
Minister of State – Sanjeev Kumar Balyan (Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh) ; L. Murugan (Rajya Sabha – Madhya Pradesh)
About World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
Director General – Monique Eloit
Headquarters – Paris, France
Established in – 1924

Union Minister Parshottam Rupala Launches Shrimp Crop Insurance SchemeUnion Minister Parshottam Rupala, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD), launched Shrimp Crop Insurance scheme developed by Agriculture Insurance Company of India Limited (AIC) with the support of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA).

• The scheme was launched during the ICAR-CIBA’s  2nd edition of Shrimp Farmers Conclave 2023 at the Navsari Agricultural University Campus in Navsari, Gujarat on 14th September 2023.

Key people:
i.The conclave was inaugurated by union minister Parshottam Rupala.

• C.R. Patil, Member of Parliament(MP-Lok Sabha) (Navsari constituency) participated in the Conclave as Guest of Honour.
• Grija Subramanian, Chairman cum Managing Director of AIC, Dr. J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries) of ICAR, Dr. Kuldeep K Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA, and other senior officials were present during the event.

About AIC’s Shrimp Crop Insurance scheme:
i.AIC developed the Shrimp Crop Insurance scheme in collaboration with ICAR-CIBA.
ii.The AIC’s Shrimp Crop Insurance scheme is open for black tiger prawn, white leg shrimp, scampi and others.

• The insurance coverage extends from the first stage to 130 days, or until the shrimps are fully matured.

About the ICAR- CIBA’s Shrimp Farmers Conclave:
i.Shrimp Farmers Conclave provided a forum for aqua farmers to share insights, debate difficulties, and explore potential in the shrimp farming industry, aligned with the government’s goals to improve India’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

• The conclave was conducted with the financial support of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Govt. of India under the PMMSY scheme, NABARD, SCAFi and Agricultural Insurance Corporation Ltd.

Highlights of the Conclave:
i.During the conclave, CIBA signed 2 Memorandums of Understanding (MoU):

• CIBA signed a MoU with National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) for implementing the crop insurance for aquaculture with premium subsidy offered by the NFDB.
• CIBA also signed a MoU with Fish Farmers Producer Organization (FFPO) of Gujarat to offer technology support.

iii.Rupala handed over a cheque for Rs 40.05 lakhs in revenue earned by Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Cage Culture beneficiaries in the Navsari region through the adoption of CIBA technology for livelihood development supported by Navsari Gujarat Research Center (NGRC)-CIBA scientists.

• He also handed over the CIBA produced Asian sea bass fish seeds to the farmers.

iv.During the conclave, farmers were explained how to report emerging disease pathogens in the “Report Fish Disease APP”.
Additional info:
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampadan Yojana(PMMSY), ICAR-CIBA is implementing a project titled “Genetic improvement program of Penaeus indicus (Indian white Shrimp)-Phase-I” with a budget of Rs. 25 crores to create a National Genetic Improvement Facility for Shrimp breeding.
About Agriculture Insurance Company of India Limited (AIC):
Chairman-cum-Managing – Girija Subramanian
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi
 Incorporated – 2002

Andhra Pradesh’s Sweet ‘Atreyapuram Pootharekulu’ gets GI tagGeographical Indications Registry(GIR) has granted Geographical Indication(GI) tags to Andhra Pradesh’s ‘Atreyapuram Pootharekulu’, a sweet made of rice and jaggery.

• GIR under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade (DIPIT), the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) had registered ‘Atreyapuram Pootharekulu’ sweet variety under the ‘Food Stuffs’ category.
• Atreyapuram is a village in Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh.

Key points:
i.GI Certificate Handover Ceremony was held at the Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University(DSNLU), Visakhapatnam on the occasion of the  national workshop on “Geographical Indications and GI Certificate Handover Ceremony for Atreyapuram Pootharekulu”

• The event, organised by the Centre for Intellectual Property Rights and Technology Group, brought together experts and dignitaries.

ii.The GI tag was granted to Sir Arthur Cotton Atreyapuram Putharekula Manufacturers Welfare Association with a validation period from 14th June 2023 to 12th December 2031.
About Putharekula:

i.Putharekula is the wafer-thin rice starch layer resembling paper and is stuffed with sugar, dry fruits and nuts.

• Putharekula means ‘coated sheet’ in the Telugu. pootha means ‘coating’ and reku (plural rekulu) means ‘sheet’.
• The sweet makers prefer the MTU-3626 paddy variety locally known as ‘Bondalu’ which is extensively grown in the Konaseema region to make the sweet.

 About GI tags:
i.Geographical Indication (GI) marked items provide a guarantee of quality and distinctiveness that primarily relates to their origin.
ii.As a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), India adopted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which came into effect on September 15, 2003.
About Andhra Pradesh:
Chief Minister- Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy
Governor- S. Abdul Nazeer
Festivels – Ugadi,Makar Sankranti,Lumbini festival

India and Russia Agreed to Train Indian Seafarers in Polar and Arctic WatersIndia and Russia agreed to train Indian seafarers in polar and arctic waters at the Russian Maritime Training Institute in Vladivostok, Russia which is named after GI Admiral Nevelsky, and equipped with simulator facilities.

• The decision to train Indian seafarers took place during a meeting between the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and A.O. Chekunkov, the Minister of the Russian Federation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic in Vladivostok, Russia.
• Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also participated in the 8th Eastern Economic Forum meeting held in Vladivostok, Russia from 10th -13th September 2023.

Key points:
i.India and Russia are set to explore the possibility of using new transport corridors such as the Northern Sea Route (NSR) as well as the Eastern Maritime Corridor (EMC) between Vladivostok and Chennai to widen maritime cooperation.
ii.India also invited Russia to participate in the Global Maritime India Summit 2023, set to be held from 17th to 19th October in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Eastern Maritime Corridor(EMC):
i.Eastern Maritime Corridor is set to connect between Chennai(Tamil Nadu) and Vladivostok which is located on the Golden Horn Bay north of North Korea and a short distance from Russia’s border with China.

• The distance between the Chennai-Vladivostok sea route is about 5,600 nautical miles (10371 kilometers).
• EMC could reduce the transit time between Indian and Russian ports in the Far East Region by up to 40%, from 40 days to 24 days.

ii.Sonowal extended an invitation to an Indo-Russian workshop on the EMC, set to be held from 30th October to 1st November 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Northern Sea Route(NSR):
i.The Northern Sea Route runs along Russia’s northern coastline and is the shortest shipping route between East Asia and Europe.

• The Route, which spans 5,600 km, begins at the boundary between the Barents and Kara seas (Kara Strait) and finishes at the Bering Strait (Provideniya Bay).
• NSR saves travel distance by as much as 50% compared to the currently used Suez or Panama routes.

About Russia:
President – Vladimir Putin
Capital– Moscow
Currency– Russian Ruble

RBI releases list of 15 NBFCs in ‘Upper Layer’ under SBRi.On September 15, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the names of 15 Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the Upper Layer (UL)/NBFC-UL under Scale Based Regulation for NBFCs for the year 2023-24.
ii.In 2021, RBI issued the Scale Based Regulation (SBR): A Revised Regulatory Framework for NBFCs (the framework) which categorizes NBFCs in NBFC-BL (Base Layer), NBFC-ML (Middle Layer), NBFC-UL (Upper Layer), and NBFC-TL (Top Layer) as per their asset size and scoring methodology.
iii.The list of NBFC-UL for 2023-24 include LIC Housing Finance Limited, Bajaj Finance Limited, Shriram Finance Limited (formerly Shriram Transport Finance Company Limited), among others.
About Reserve Bank of India (RBI):
Governor – Shaktikanta Das
Deputy Governors – Swaminathan Janakiraman, Michael Debabrata Patra, M. Rajeshwar Rao, T. Rabi Sankar
Establishment – 1st April 1935
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra

Indian Bank Launched ‘IB SAATHI’ to enhance banking servicesIndian Bank has launched a new initiative called IB(Indian Bank) SAATHI (Sustainable Access and Aligning Technology for Holistic Inclusion), to provide basic banking services at all centres for a minimum of four hours per day in fixed outlets through the business correspondent (BC) channel.

• The initiative was launched by Shanti Lal Jain who is the Managing Director(MD) and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Indian Bank in Chennai, Tamilnadu.
•  The program makes it easier for customers to access and use banking services, and it also offers both basic and value-added services to customers.

Additional BCs & CBCs:
To implement the initiative, Indian Bank needs to have more than 5,000 newly appointed new BCs (by March 2024) along with 15 Corporate Business Correspondents (CBCs).

• Presently, they have only 10,750 BCs and 10 CBCs.
• Indian Bank offers 36 different services to customers through its BC channel.

Business Correspondent:
They are individuals or entities appointed by banks to bring banking services closer to people in remote or underserved areas.

• These agents play a crucial role in expanding the reach of banking services to communities that may not have easy access to traditional bank branches.

Additional info:
Indian bank is planning to introduce 60 more services through BCs by FY2024-25.
About Indian Bank:
Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Shanti Lal Jain
Headquarters – Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Established in – 1907
Tagline – Your own bank

Morning Consult Survey: PM Modi Retained the Most Popular Global Leader title with 76% rating
According to the “Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker” survey released by the United States of America(USA) based consulting firm Morning Consult, Narendra Modi, Prime Minister (PM) of India has been named the “Most Popular Global World Leader” with an approval rating of 76% (highest in the world). Modi received 18% disapproval and 5% did not give an opinion.

• Previously Modi topped the list in 2022 and 2021 as “Most Popular Global Leader ”.
• Alain Berset, President of Switzerland is ranked 2nd (64%) followed by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, President of Mexico at 3rd rank (61%).

Leaders among the Top 5 include Luiz da Silva, President of Brazil (4th – 49%); Anthony Albanese, PM of Australia (5th – 48%).

Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 Portal Launched to Reduce Pendency in Govt OfficesOn 14th September 2023, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge)  Science and Technology, launched dedicated website to monitor Swachhata Campaign 3.0 and Special Campaign for Disposal of Pending Matters (SCDPM) 2023 at National Media Centre, New Delhi, Delhi.

• The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions is the Nodal Department for the implementation of this Campaign.
• The portal is designed, developed & hosted by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY).

Note: The Swachhata campaign, a mass awareness campaign, was 1st launched by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on August 15, 2014.
Key People:
The launch ceremony was attended by Nodal Officers of Public Grievances and Appellate Authorities in all the 84 Ministries/Departments of Government of India.
Special Campaign 3.0:
i.The government will organise Special Campaign 3.0 on the lines of the Special Campaigns held in 2021 and 2022 on the same theme.
ii.Under this Special Campaign, the target has been set to undertake a cleanliness campaign at 1.5 lakh sites, freeing up 100 lakh square feet of space that is occupied by dump and junk items and generating revenue amounting to Rs. 400 crore from scrap disposal.

• In the last two campaigns, revenue amounting to Rs. 600 crores was earned by disposing of office scrap.

Objective: To improve the overall cleanliness of government offices and enhancing public experience.
Phases: The Special Campaign 3.0 will be organised in 2 phases: Preparatory phase ( September 15 to 30, 2023) & Implementation phase ( October 2 to 31, 2023):

• During Preparatory phase, Ministries/Departments will mobilise the offices or officers and ground functionaries for the campaign, identify the pendency in selected categories and finalize the campaign sites and appoint nodal officers in each of their campaign offices, arrange training for the nodal officers, and assess the volume of redundant materials to be disposed of, and finalise the procedures for their disposal.
• The Implementation phase will focus on Swachhata and reducing pendency in Government Offices with a saturation approach. In this phase ministries and departments will utilise the campaign to improve record management and document the best practices that evolved during the campaign.

Note: The Cabinet Secretary addressed all Secretaries of the Government of India on 25th August 2023 and DARPG guidelines for the same were issued on 1st September 2023.
Highlights:
i.DARPG has launched a compendium of 300 Best Practices which will be implemented by all Government Ministries and Departments and published widely through media, highlighting the ‘Whole of Government’ and ‘Whole of Science’ approaches” .
ii.On the occasion, the Special Campaign 3.0 Guidelines and Special Campaign Progress from December 2022-July 2023 and Monthly Report of Secretariat Reforms for June-July, 2023 were also released.

Supreme Court of India onboards the National Judicial Data Grid PortalChief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud announced that the Supreme Court of India (SCI) has onboarded the National Judicial Data Grid  (NJDG) portal, a flagship project of the e-Courts initiative. The NJDG portal is a national repository of data relating to cases instituted, pending, and disposed of by various courts across India.

• The integration of the SCI into the NJDG portal signifies the successful completion of the e-Courts project, bringing all three tiers of the Indian judiciary onto the NJDG platform.
• NJDG is ‘sui generis‘ (meaning ‘of its own kind’ in Latin), so uploading data on the NJDG will ensure transparency and accountability in the judicial domain.

NJDG Portal:
i.It has been developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in close coordination with the in-house software development team of the SC Registry’s computer cell with an interactive interface and analytics dashboard.
ii.The entire database will be periodically updated on the NJDG portal on a real-time basis. The NJDG-SCI portal can be accessed through the SC website.
iii.To date, the NJDG portal remains unparalleled, providing citizens with easy access to crucial information about the Indian judicial system at the click of a button.
iv.Now, with the click of a button, one can see real-time information on the pendency and disposal of cases, year-wise, the total pendency of registered and unregistered cases, and also the number of cases decided quorum-wise.
Benefits of NJDG Portal:

• Increased transparency
• Accountability and responsibility
• Improved efficiency
• Increased coordination
• Informed decision making
• Optimum deployment of resources and manpower
• Single source of data
• Huge potential for high-quality research work

Key Points:
i.The information available on the NJDG-SCI portal would include the current pendency of civil and criminal cases, filing and disposal of cases in the previous month, number of cases pending before three-judge, five-judge, and even nine-judge Benches.
ii.NJDG is recognized as a significant innovation under the ease of doing business initiative of the Government of India.

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2023- September 16 The United Nations (UN) World Ozone Day or International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is annually observed on September 16 to raise awareness about the importance of the ozone layer and its depletion that leads to global warming and climate change across the world.

• The day also aims to bring attention to the significance of preserving the Ozone layer. This day is also known as “Global Ozone Day.”

The 2023 theme of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is, “Montreal Protocol: fixing the ozone layer and reducing climate change.”

• The theme highlights and reiterates the positive impact of the Montreal Protocol on ozone layer recovery and reducing climate change.

Background:
i.On 19 December 1994, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution A/RES/49/114 and proclaimed September 16 as International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.
ii.The first International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer was observed on 16 September 1995.

International Red Panda Day 2023 – September 16International Red Panda Day (IRPD) is annually observed across the globe on the 3rd Saturday of September to create awareness about the importance of the conservation of Red Pandas and to promote and encourage people to save them.

• International Red Panda Day (IRPD) 2023 was observed on 16th September 2023.
• The IRPD 2022 was observed on 17th September 2022. The IRPD 2024 will be observed on 21st September 2024.

Red Pandas are widely found in the forest mountains of Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and Myanmar.
About Red Panda Network (RPN)
Founder – Brian Williams
Headquarters – Oregon, United States of America(USA)
Established in – 2007

International Coastal Clean-up Day 2023 – September 16 International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) Day is annually observed across the world on the 3rd Saturday of September to raise awareness of the problem of marine litter. This day aims to encourage people to clean up the coastal line and raise awareness about the significance of preserving the oceans and waterways.

• It is a global event that promotes local clean-up actions on beaches, coastal areas, rivers, lakes, and other watercourses.

International Coastal Clean-up Day 2023 was observed on 16th September 2023.

• ICC Day 2022 was observed on 17th September 2022.
• ICC Day 2024 will be observed on 21st September 2024.

Background:
i.International Coastal Cleanup movement was first organised by the Ocean Conservancy, an organization to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges.
ii.The first-ever International Coastal Clean-up event was hosted by Linda Maraniss and Kathy O’Hara, the members of Ocean Conservancy on the west coast of Washington State, the United States of America(USA) in 1986.
About Ocean Conservancy:
Chief Executive Officer– Janis Searles Jones
Headquarters– Washington, D.C., USA
Founded in– 1972

Goa CM Pramod Sawant Launched Griha Adhar Scheme to Empower Homemakers Pramod Sawant, Goa Chief Minister (CM) distributed Griha Adhar sanction orders to numerous beneficiaries in an event held at Ravindra Bhavan, Sankhali (Goa), to financially support homemakers, promoting their independence and improving their quality of life.

• The initiative was organised by the Directorate of Women and Child Development.
• The CM also launched the Chavath-e-Bazaar, aimed at empowering Goan entrepreneurs and Self-help Groups (SHGs), a digital initiative under the Swayampura Goa Programme organised by the Directorate of Planning, Statistics, and Evaluation.
• The CM also flagged off the Chavath-e-Bazaar vehicle, symbolizing a new era of empowerment for rural artisans and entrepreneurs in Goa.

Griha Adhar scheme:
Griha Adhar is an exemplary scheme, that has now benefited a total of 1.5 lakh women beneficiaries. More than 3 lakh families benefit with Griha Adhar and Dayanand Samajik Suraksha Yojana schemes(DSSS).

• Goa Government provide Rs.2,000 under DSSS and Rs.1,500 under Griha Aadhar.

Chavath e-bazaar:
i.Chavath e-bazaar.com aims to empower women in line with the Government of India’s (GoI) vision of “Vocal for Local” by providing them with a unique opportunity to become an entrepreneur by starting and growing their businesses online.

• Under Swayampurna Goa 2.0, free-of-cost training will be given to women at their respective panchayats, for packaging the food items, selling, and other related things.

ii.It is an online portal integrated with the Swiggy app for seamless ordering, this innovative platform is set to revolutionize the way Goan entrepreneurs and SHGs sell their products online.
iii.Chavath e-bazaar is also accessible through its website, https://www.goaebazaar.com/ to support the rich tradition of Goan artisans and craftsmanship.
Goa CM Launched ‘Goa Taxi App’ To Elevate Travel Experience for Tourists
On 15 September 2023, Pramod Sawant, Goa CM launched the “Goa Taxi App“, a taxi service app through which people can book a cab online to travel anywhere within the coastal state.It is 24/7 booking service.

• This app will also bring down the traveling cost for tourists, to address the issue of extremely high taxi fares in Goa.
• “Goa Taxi App” has been operational at the Manohar International Airport (MIA), MoPA (Goa) for the last 6 months.

Key People:
The CM launched the “Goa Taxi App” in the presence of Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Goa; Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) and Suneel Anchipaka, Director of Tourism department.

TN CM Launches Women’s Rights Grant Scheme; Beneficiaries to get Rs 1000/month
Chief Minister (CM) of Tamil Nadu(TN) M K Stalin launched Kalaignar Magalir Urimai (Thogai) Thittam, a women’s rights grant scheme, to provide financial assistance of Rs 1000 per month for women, who are recognised as the heads of families.

• The scheme was launched on the occasion of the birth anniversary of former TN CM and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) founder C.N. Annadurai(15th September).

This was one of the 7 assurances given by Stalin in the run-up to the 2021 Assembly elections.
The grant of Rs 12,000 per annum is set to improve the livelihood of women, enhance their standard of living and enable them to live with self-respect in society.
Eligibility: 
i.Families earning annual income below Rs 2.5 lakh; holding less than five acres of wetland or less than ten acres of dryland; and consuming less than 3,600 units of electricity per year for domestic use are eligible for the scheme.
ii.A woman, from an eligible family, aged above 21 years of age (born before September 15, 2002), is qualified to be a beneficiary of the scheme. The Women beneficiary should be a Permanent Resident of Tamil Nadu.
iii.Families receiving Pension/Family pension from the Government are not eligible for the benefit under this scheme.

J&K’s Udhampur Railway Station Renamed after Capt. Tushar Mahajan
The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) administration has passed an order to rename the Udhampur railway station in Udhampur district of J&K as “Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Railway Station”. 

DAC Gives Nod to Rs.45,000 Crores Worth Proposals for Defence

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), in its meeting on 15th September 2023, under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals of various weapons systems and platforms amounting to Rs 45,000 crore ($5.41 billion). These proposals further strive to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Indian Defence Forces and increase the incorporation of indigenous content in defence projects.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted approval for nine procurement proposals, and all these procurements will be sourced from indigenous vendors under Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDMM) category.

Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics Launches to Provide Credible Data on Agriculture SectorProfessor Ramesh Chand, Member of National Institution for Transforming India(NITI) Aayog, launched Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics (UPAg) developed by Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare(DoA&FW), under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare(MoA&FW) to address data related governance challenges in agriculture.
About Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics(UPAg): 
i.Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics(UPAg) is an advanced agricultural data management platform that generates crop estimates and integrates with other systems providing Agriculture Statistics such as Price, Trade, Procurement, and Stock.

• It acts as a centralised hub for near real-time information on crop production, market trends, price, and other essential agricultural data.

ii.UPAg intends to help agriculture stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and farmers, by offering complete insights to enable informed decision-making.
iii.The initiative aligns with e-governance principles, bringing smartness, transparency, and agility to India’s agriculture sector.
Key Features of UPAg Portal:
The UPAg portal will offer features like data standardisation, data analysis, granular production estimates, commodity profile reports, and plug and play.
i.Data Standardization: The portal standardises data on prices, production, area, yield, and trade, making it available in a single location and removing the need to assemble data from numerous sources.
ii.Data Analysis: UPAg Portal will use advanced analytics to provide data including production trends, trade correlations, and consumption patterns to policymakers, allowing them to make more educated decisions.
iii.Granular Production Estimates: The portal will generate more frequent granular production estimates, boosting the government’s capacity to respond quickly to agricultural problems.
iv.Commodity Profile Reports: Commodity profile reports will be generated utilising algorithms, reducing subjectivity and offering customers comprehensive insights.
v.Plug and Play: Users will be able to create their own reports using the portal’s data, fostering data-driven decision-making.
Additional info:
As per the third advance estimate of the production of major crops for the agricultural year 2022-23, the top five rice production states are Telangana, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Odisha.

PM Narendra Modi dedicates Phase 1 of IICC-Yashobhoomi in New Delhi; Launches PM Vishwakarma Schemei.On September 17, 2023, i.e. on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, the Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi dedicated the Phase -1 of the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC), also known as Yashobhoomi to the nation located in Dwarka Sector 25, New Delhi, Delhi.
ii.He also launched PM Vishwakarma Scheme covering 18 focus areas of artisans and craftsmen along with its logo, tagline and portal.
iii.Built at a cost of approximately Rs. 5400 crore, IICC is one of the world’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, featuring India’s first indoor arena with a retractable roof.
iv.IICC is India’s largest convention and exhibition centre with a total indoor area of 300,000m2.
v.Department for Promotion of Industry and internal Trade (DPIIT) had set up a 100% Government owed company namely India International Convention & Exhibition Centre (IICC) Limited to implement, and develop the project.
About India International Convention & Exhibition Centre (IICC) Limited:
Managing Director & CEO–  Sumita Dawra ((Special Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry(MCI))
Headquarter– New Delhi, Delhi
Establishment– 2017

Karnataka’s Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas & West Bengal’s Santiniketan Inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage ListSantiniketan in West Bengal(WB) and Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas in Karnataka were inscribed on the  United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage list.

• Santiniketan is the 41st and Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas is the 42nd World Heritage site in India.
• Both were listed under the Cultural heritage category.

This was announced during the 45th extended session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO being held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 10 to 25 September 2023.
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO):
Director-General – Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters – Paris, France
Established in – 1945 (came into force in 1946)

India is Ranked 52nd in Digital Quality of Life Index 2023; France topsAccording to the 2023 Digital Quality of Life(DQL) Index, the 5th edition of the annual DQL Index by Surfshark Limited, India has raised to 52nd rank with a ranking index of 0.5154 from 59th rank in 2022.

• The Index featuring 121 countries is topped by France with a ranking index of 0.7902 followed by Finland, Denmark, Germany and Luxembourg.
• In Asia(regional ranking) India is ranked 13, with Singapore (global rank 10) at the top.

• Internet affordability
• Internet quality
• Electronic infrastructure (e-infrastructure)
• Electronic security(e-security)
• Electronic government (e-government)

These pillars have 14 indicators that help to measure the overall digital quality of life.
India’s ranking in these 5 pillars:
Internet Affordability – 28th rank, Internet Quality -16th rank, Electronic Infrastructure – 91st rank, Electronic Security – 66th rank and Electronic Government – 35th rank.
Take away from the survey:
The survey pointed out that India’s internet quality is 36% higher than the global average.
India is not prepared to fight against cybercrime, and It has very low data protection laws.
About Digital Quality of Life Index 2023
i.The Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index reveals insights into factors that impact a country’s digital wellbeing and areas that should be prioritised for future improvement.

• The study offers a unique perspective into a country’s digital quality of life.

ii.The study covers 90% of the world population.
iii.DQL Index 2023 includes 4 more countries than the previous edition. The new countries are Venezuela, Kuwait, Benin, and Burkina Faso.
iv.The results are comparable with the previous three editions. So that a country’s digital progress can be easily tracked.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Introduces Maxima Savings Account, Business Maxima Current AccountUjjivan Small Finance Bank Limited (Ujjivan SFB) has launched the Maxima Savings Account and Business Maxima Current Account which is designed exclusively for medium and large business entities.

• Both the accounts offer a RuPay Select Debit Card that provides access to wellness services, exclusive merchant offers, airport lounge access, and a premium health checkup.

Key features of the Maxima Savings Account:
i.Annual interest rate on the Maxima Savings Account up to 7.5%.
ii.Customers can open the account with  Rs 1 lakh.
iii.Flexibility to maintain Rs 15 lakh or more in Fixed Deposits(FD) to meet the balance eligibility criteria(this option is not available with other standard savings accounts).
iv.Complementary Health Prime Benefit is offered for eligible customers.
v.Other benefits: Higher transaction limits, Free cheque and Demand Draft (DD) issuances, Free transactions across all channels and unlimited cash deposits and withdrawals at any Ujjivan SFB branch.
Key features of the Business Maxima Current Account:
i.Business Maxima Current Account provides businesses and entrepreneurs with a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet their unique needs.
ii.The account offers facilities like online banking, instant fund transfers, and cash management options.
iii.It provides provision for customising cash deposit limits for businesses.
iv.ATM withdrawal limit per day is capped at Rs 5 lakhs per day.
v.Business account holders will have access to specialised relationship managers for personalised banking support
vi.Other benefits: Account services for merchants, Free installation and rental fees for POS (Point of Sale) services.
About Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited:
Managing Director – Ittira Davis
Headquarters – Bengaluru, Karnataka
Established in – 2017

NHAI Signs Agreement to Develop Multi Modal Logistics Park at Bengaluru
National Highways Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML), has signed an agreement for the development of Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in at Muddelinganahalli in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

• The agreement was signed between the Government Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Bengaluru MMLP Private Limited and  Concessionaire SPV PATH Bengaluru Logistics Park Pvt. Ltd.

Note: Bengaluru MMLP is a Government SPV incorporated between NHLML, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) and Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB).  NHLML is the  subsidiary of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
About Proposed MMLP:

• The proposed MMLP will be developed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) (Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model at an estimated cost of Rs 1,770 crore.
• This project is set to become the first and largest MMLP ever implemented in the country under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
• It will handle around 30 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo by the end of the 45-year concession period, offering a significant boost to industrial zones in the catchment region such as Bengaluru and Tumkur.

Why MMLP needed? 
MMLP is an initiative to enhance freight logistics by enabling effective inter-modal freight movement to reduce total freight costs and time, provide efficient warehousing, and improve consignment tracking and traceability.

33rd First Annual Ig Nobel Prize 2023: Team Including Indian Researcher Won 2023 Ig Nobel prizeThe 2023 Ig Nobel Prizes were awarded at the 33rd First Annual Ig Nobel Prize ceremony, on September 14, 2023. The Ig Nobel Prize is the prize for humorous scientific feats and aims to “honour achievements that first make people laugh, and then make them think.”

• A team of scientists from India, China, Malaysia, and the United States of America (USA) has won the 2023 Ig Nobels, in the ‘Mechanical Engineering‘ category for re-animating dead spiders and using them as mechanical gripping tools.

2023 Ceremony:
i.The 2023 ceremony happened entirely as a webcast produced by a Magazine named ‘Annals of Improbable Research’.
ii.The prizes were awarded by genuine Nobel laureates. Each winner received a 10 trillion Zimbabwe dollar bill and a pack of “Ig Pseudo Cola.”
iii.A new additional companion event called ‘Ig Nobel Face-to-Face‘ has been organised for the 33rd First Annual Ig Nobel Prize winners on November 11, 2023, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Museum, Cambridge (USA).
List of Winners of 2023 Ig Nobel Prizes
10 Categories of Ig Nobel Prize:
Chemistry and Geology; Literature; Mechanical Engineering; Public Health; Communication; Medicine; Nutrition; Education; Psychology; Physics.
Indian Researcher Team:
i.A team from Rice University in Texas, USA won the Mechanical Engineering Prize for re-animating dead spiders to use as ‘necrobotic‘ mechanical gripping tools, able to grasp objects up to 130% of their own weight.

• The findings, published in the journal Advanced Science (July 2022), showed that spiders “are able to grasp objects greater than their own weight”.

Team members: Faye Yap, Zhen Liu, Anoop Rajappan (India), Trevor Shimokusu, and Daniel Preston.
ii.The team with a dead spider found that a dead spider’s legs naturally sit in a “closed” state like a clenched fist, but the legs can be extended, and the grip opened, by applying pressure.
iii.Using this “necrobotic” approach, the team created a spider-based gripper that could, grasp objects with irregular shapes.

• The gripper can also serve as a handheld device and innately camouflages in outdoor environments.

Key Highlights of 2023 Events:
i.Winners of the prizes represented 22 countries, including 5 researchers from the USA, 4 from the United Kingdom, and 3 from China.
ii.The theme of the 2023 ceremony, evinced in the non-opera and other bits, was: WATER.
iii.The 2023 event included the premiere of 7 songs on the topic of water, plus eminent researchers explaining their subjects in just 24 seconds, and then in only 7 words.
About Ig Nobel Prize:
i.It is awarded every autumn to celebrate 10 unusual or trivial achievements in scientific research.
ii.‘Ig Nobel Prize’ is a pun on the Nobel Prize, which it parodies and on the word ignoble, an achievement ‘characterised by baseness or meanness’, and is satirical social criticism that identifies absurd yet useful knowledge.
iii.This award is the brainchild of Marc Abrahams, editor of the magazine ‘Annals of Improbable Research’.
iv.The awards have been presented since 1991 by genuine Nobel laureates usually at Harvard University in the United States of America (USA).

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Conferred 84 artistes with Sangeet Natak Akademi Amrit Awards 2022On September 16, 2023, the Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar presented the one-time Sangeet Natak Akademi Amrit Awards 2022  to 84 artistes from varied fields of performing arts during a ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.

• The award was constituted to honour Indian artistes aged above 75 years who have not been accorded any national honour in their career so far.
• A total of 84 artists, comprising 70 men and 14 women, were bestowed with this prestigious award at the ceremony.

Key People:
Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Meenakashi Lekhi, Ministers of State(MoS) for Culture and Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi were present during the award ceremony.
Key Points:
i.The list features artists from various Indian states viz. 3 from Andhra Pradesh, 2 from Arunachal Pradesh, 6 from Maharashtra, 3 each from Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat,  2 each from Punjab, and Delhi.
ii.4 award recipients each are from Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, while 5 each from Assam and Rajasthan were recognized for their exceptional contributions.
Some of the Awardees:

• The award includes a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, a Tamrapatra, and an Angavastram.

About Sangeet Natak Akademi:
Sangeet Natak Akademi is an autonomous body of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
The Chairman of the Akademi is appointed by the President of India and serves a 5-year term.
Chairman– Dr. Sandhya Purecha
Parent Ministry– Ministry of Culture
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Establishment– 1953

AAI Inducts two Advanced B-360 Aircraft into Flight Inspection Fleet
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) has inducted two new B-360 aircraft with advanced state-of-the-art Flight Inspection system into its Flight Inspection Unit(FIU)’s Fleet to carry out calibration of ground navigation and landing aids.

• The induction of the new aircrafts was flagged off by Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister of Civil Aviation in the presence of General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, Minister of State(MoS) for Civil Aviation and  Sanjeev Kumar, Chairman of AAI, at Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi, Delhi.
• Flight inspection is crucial in achieving the best international standards specified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
• These aircraft will be used in Calibrating the Category I, II and III Instrument Landing Systems, Doppler Very High Frequency Omni Range(DVORs),Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), non-directional beacon (NDB), Radar, Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS), Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), Tactical Air Navigation System (TACAN) .

Note: FIU of AAI is a key component in the safety chain of Air Navigation Service provided by AAI in Indian airspace. FIU was established in 1959 in Bamrauli, Allahabad and was shifted to Safdarjung Airport in 1986.

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 Launches 22 Starlink Satellites to LEO
On 15th September 2023, Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX) launched 22 Starlink internet satellites into low-Earth orbit (LEO). A Falcon 9 rocket launched the Starlink spacecraft from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the United States of America(USA).

• This was the fifth flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-6, SES O3b mPOWER, and two Starlink missions.
• It returned to Earth about 8.5 minutes after liftoff on the SpaceX droneship ‘Just Read the Instructions’, which was stationed in the Atlantic Ocean off the Florida coast.
• This launch marks SpaceX’s 65th mission of 2023 and the 49th from Florida’s Space Coast launch station.

India Wins the 16th Edition of Asia Cup 2023 Finals Defeating Sri Lanka India have lifted the Asia Cup for a record-extending eighth time after beating defending champions Sri Lanka in the Finals of Asia Cup 2023, at  R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. 

• The 16th Edition of Asia Cup 2023 was Co-hosted by Sri Lanka as well as Pakistan for the 1st time from 31 August to 17 September 2023.
• With eight Asia Cup titles (seven ODI and one T20I), India becomes the most successful team in the history of tournament.
• Man of the Match (Final)- Mohammed Siraj
• Man of the Series- Kuldeep Yadav

About Asia Cup:
Inception Year– The Asia Cup cricket tournament commenced in 1984, in UAE (Winner – India).
Organizing Body- The Asian Cricket Council (ACC)
Asian Cricket Council President – Jay Shah

Diamond League 2023 Final: Neeraj Chopra Finishes Second in Javelin Throw
Tokyo 2020 Olympic Gold medallist Neeraj Chopra finished second place in the men’s javelin throw event at the Diamond League 2023 Final with a best throw of 83.80m.

• Czech Republic’s Jakub Vadlejch won the men’s javelin throw title with a best throw of 84.24m while Finland’s Oliver Helander came third with an 83.74m throw.
• The Diamond League 2023 Final was held in Eugene, Oregon, the United States of America(USA) from 16th to 17th September 2023.

Neeraj Chopra’s journey to the Diamond League 2023 Final:
i.Previously, Neeraj Chopra won the Doha(May 2023) and Lausanne legs(June 2023)of the 2023 Diamond League series while settling for the second position in the Zurich leg(August 2023).
ii.He was qualified for the Diamond League Final with 23 points from three meetings, whereas Jakub Vadlejch finished first with 29 points after competing in all four qualifying events.

• In Diamond leagues, Athletes are awarded points along with the medals and the top eight athletes at the end of the Diamond league will qualify for the Diamond League Finals.

Highlights:
i.The 2023 title for Jakub Vadlejch was his third title in the Diamond League championships after he won the 2016 and 2017 Diamond League championships.
ii.Neeraj Chopra’s record in Eugene: Neeraj Chopra holds the record best throw of 88.13m in Eugene when he won the world championship silver medal in 2022.
About Diamond League:
i.The Diamond League is a series of athletic meets, comprising track and field events, held annually from 2010, organised by Monaco headquartered World Athletics.
ii.It was established to replace the International Amateur Athletic Federation IAAF Golden League, which had been held since 1998.
iii.The 2023 Diamond League is the 14th edition(sponsorship reason it’s called Wanda Diamond League), held from May 5, 2023- September 17, 2023.
Points to Note:
i.Neeraj Chopra had won the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw in the World Athletics Championships 2023 which was held in Budapest, Hungary in August 2023.
ii.Neeraj Chopra became the first Indian to win a Diamond League Trophy in 2022 at the Javelin Throw event with a throw of 88.44m.

World Patient Safety Day 2023- September 17 World Health Organization’s (WHO) World Patient Safety Day is annually observed worldwide on 17 September to spread worldwide awareness about patient safety and promote actions to improve the safety of healthcare practices across the world.

• The theme of WPSD 2023 observed on 17th September 2023 is “Engaging patients for patient safety“.
• The slogan of WPSD 2023 is “Elevate the voice of patients!”.

The 2023 theme emphasises the pivotal role patients, families, and caregivers play in ensuring the safety of healthcare practices.
Background:
i.World Patient Safety Day was established in May 2019 by the 72nd World Health Assembly (WHA) through the adoption of resolution WHA72.6, “Global action on patient safety”.
ii.The resolution recognizes patient safety as a global health priority and endorses the establishment of World Patient Safety Day to be observed annually on 17 September.
iii.The first WPSD was observed on 17 September 2019.
Note: The 3rd WHO Global Patient Safety Challenge: Medication Without Harm, was launched in 2017 as a multiyear initiative with the goal of reducing severe, avoidable medication-related harm globally by 50% over a period of 5 years.
NATHEALTH, Healthcare Federation of India on the occasion of WPSD 2023, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), to promote and enhance patient safety and improve healthcare quality.

• This collaboration represents a significant step to ensure patient safety and improve the quality of healthcare services across India.

World Bamboo Day 2023 – September 18 World Bamboo Day is annually observed across the globe on September 18 to create awareness about bamboo and to bring the potential of bamboo to a more elevated exposure.

• The annual observance of World Bamboo Day is led by the World Bamboo Organisation (WBO), an international coordinating body for bamboo practitioners.

Background:
i.In 2009, during the 8th World Bamboo Congress in Bangkok, Thailand the WBO, with the support of the Royal Forest Department of Thailand, formally recognised 18th September as World Bamboo Day.

• The observance was initiated by Kamalesh Salam from Assam who served as the President of WBO from 2007 to 2009.

iii.The 1st ever Bamboo Day was celebrated on 18th September 2009 in Bangkok, Thailand.
The 18th of September is annually observed as the Royal Thai  Forest Day in Thailand.
About World Bamboo Organisation(WBO):
WBO was initially founded as the “International Bamboo Association (IBA)” in 1992 and later renamed as the “World Bamboo Organization”.
Executive director & CEO  – Susanne Lucas
Headquarters – Boston, Massachusetts,United States of America(USA)

International Equal Pay Day 2023- September 18The United Nations (UN) International Equal Pay Day is annually observed across the world on 18 September to represent the longstanding efforts towards the achievement of equal pay for work of equal value.

• The day also aligns with the UN’s commitment to human rights and the eradication of all forms of discrimination, including gender-based disparities against women and girls.

Kindness is an essential virtue that every person should possess. It is the act of being considerate, helpful, and caring towards others without expecting anything in return. Kindness requires empathy, sympathy, and compassion towards others; it is a selfless act of love that brings joy, happiness, and peace to others’ lives. Kindness is not restricted to any particular race, religion, or culture; it is a universal language that can be understood and appreciated by everyone.

Kindness has a significant impact on society. It promotes harmony, cooperation, and unity among people. Kindness helps to create a positive environment where people can live, work, and play together in peace and harmony. When people display acts of kindness towards each other, it creates a ripple effect that spreads throughout the community, inspiring others to be kind and compassionate towards one another.

Moreover, kindness is crucial in building strong and healthy relationships. It strengthens the bond between individuals and enhances their emotional and mental well-being. When we are kind to others, it makes them feel valued, appreciated, and loved. This, in turn, fosters trust, respect, and loyalty in relationships. Kindness promotes forgiveness, understanding, and acceptance, which are essential ingredients of a healthy relationship.

Furthermore, kindness is vital in promoting mental health and well-being. When we are kind to others, it brings a sense of satisfaction, purpose, and fulfillment. Kindness helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are prevalent mental health disorders in today’s society. When we help others, it boosts our self-esteem and confidence, making us feel good about ourselves.

In conclusion, kindness is a fundamental value that should be embraced by everyone. It promotes social harmony, healthy relationships, and mental well-being. Kindness is contagious and can inspire others to be compassionate and caring towards one another. Therefore, let us make kindness a habit and spread it wherever we go, and we will make the world a better place.

Moral values are principles that guide an individual or a society’s behavior and decision-making, based on what is considered right or wrong. These values help people distinguish between right and wrong, good and bad, just and unjust, and ethical and unethical behavior. Moral values are usually instilled in individuals during their childhood through teachings and experiences, and they play a significant role in shaping their personality, character, and perception of the world. These values are essential for creating a just and harmonious society and for building strong relationships based on trust, respect, and integrity. Some examples of moral values are honesty, kindness, empathy, fairness, respect, responsibility, and compassion.

Moral values are an essential aspect of human life, guiding our behavior and decision-making processes. They help us distinguish between right and wrong, good and bad, and acceptable and unacceptable behavior. These values are crucial for building and maintaining strong and healthy relationships, creating a just and harmonious society, and becoming responsible and ethical individuals.

Moral values are instilled in us during our childhood through teachings and experiences, and they continue to evolve throughout our lives. These values shape our attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions, influencing our behavior in every aspect of life. They help us develop empathy, compassion, respect, and integrity, which are essential for building strong and meaningful relationships with others.

One of the most crucial moral values is honesty. Honesty is the foundation of trust, and without trust, relationships and society cannot function properly. Being honest means being truthful and transparent, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. It means taking responsibility for our actions and admitting our mistakes, rather than trying to cover them up or blame others.

Another essential moral value is kindness. Kindness means treating others with respect, empathy, and generosity. It means being considerate of others’ feelings and needs and making an effort to help and support them whenever possible. Kindness creates a positive and supportive environment, fostering strong relationships and a sense of community.

Respect is another vital moral value that helps us develop positive relationships with others. Respect means treating others with dignity, regardless of their background, beliefs, or opinions. It means acknowledging their rights and needs and being courteous and polite in our interactions with them.

Responsibility is also an essential moral value that helps us become accountable and reliable individuals. Responsibility means taking ownership of our actions and decisions, being dependable and trustworthy, and fulfilling our obligations and duties.

Finally, compassion is a moral value that helps us develop empathy and understanding for others. Compassion means being sensitive to other people’s struggles and pains and making an effort to support and comfort them whenever possible.

In conclusion, moral values are a fundamental aspect of human life, guiding our behavior, and shaping our personalities and characters. They help us create strong and meaningful relationships, build a just and harmonious society, and become responsible and ethical individuals. Honesty, kindness, respect, responsibility, and compassion are some of the most crucial moral values that we should strive to embody in our lives, both individually and collectively.

Laziness is a disease that affects most of us in our daily lives. It is a condition where we lack the motivation to do something, to be productive and make a change for ourselves, and society. Our biggest enemy is not external forces but the internal forces that hold us back, which includes laziness.

Laziness can manifest itself in various ways such as procrastination or lack of ambition, and it can lead to negative results. One of the significant dangers of laziness is that it creates a sense of complacency in individuals. For instance, students who are lazy to study and prefer to procrastinate tend to perform poorly in their exams. Similarly, employees who procrastinate tend to miss deadlines, which could have a significant impact on the company they work for.

Laziness can also contribute to negative health impacts. When people don’t have the motivation to exercise or eat healthily, they are more likely to experience health complications such as obesity, high blood pressure, and other lifestyle diseases. This can also lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, which lower one’s quality of life.

Laziness can also deprive an individual of the opportunities they could have had if they had been more productive. For example, a person who lacks motivation may miss out on job promotions, scholarships, and other opportunities that require hard work and dedication. Moreover, laziness can be infectious and spread to other aspects of an individual’s life, leading to a lack of social interaction and ultimately isolation.

However, it is possible to overcome laziness and become more productive. The first step is to identify the cause of the laziness, whether it’s due to negative self-talk, fear of failure, or lack of motivation. Once identified, it is easier to tackle the issue head-on and adopt strategies to overcome it. This could include setting achievable goals, breaking down tasks into smaller steps, and incorporating rewards for accomplishing goals.

In conclusion, laziness is our biggest enemy. It is a condition that can lead to negative impacts on all aspects of our lives, from our physical and mental health to our productivity and career success. It is essential to recognize the symptoms of laziness and take steps to overcome it by setting achievable goals, breaking down tasks, and rewarding ourselves for our accomplishments. By doing so, we can overcome our biggest enemy and become more productive individuals who can achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world.

Discipline is defined as the practice of training oneself to do things in a controlled and orderly manner. It is essential to be disciplined to achieve success in any aspect of life. Be it in academics, sports, career, or personal life, discipline plays a crucial role in shaping our behavior and actions.

Discipline enables us to focus on our goals and work towards achieving them with determination and perseverance. A person who is disciplined follows a set routine and schedule, avoids distractions, and manages time efficiently. Such a person is more organized, productive, and motivated to succeed.

Discipline also helps in building good habits and breaking bad ones. It requires self-control and the ability to resist temptations. For instance, a student who is disciplined will not procrastinate and will complete assignments and study regularly. On the other hand, an undisciplined student may waste time on unproductive activities, leading to poor academic performance.

Discipline is also essential in sports. An athlete who practices discipline in training, nutrition, and rest is more likely to perform better and achieve their goals. They are less likely to get injured or burnout and can maintain their performance level consistently.

In career and personal life, discipline is critical for success. A disciplined person is reliable and responsible, and they can meet deadlines and fulfill commitments. They have better time management skills, reduce stress and increase productivity, leading to professional and personal growth.

In conclusion, discipline is the key to success. It is an essential aspect of our daily lives that helps us to achieve our goals, build good habits, and overcome challenges. Discipline requires commitment, self-control, and determination, but the rewards are worth it. By being disciplined, we can lead a successful and fulfilling life.

Creativity is the ability to think outside the box, to come up with original and innovative ideas, and to use imagination to innovate and create something new. It is an essential aspect of human nature that has the power to solve problems, inspire change, and bring new perspectives to the world.

Creativity is not just about artistic talents, and it can be expressed in various fields, such as science, business, technology, and even politics. Creativity at its core is about exploring ideas and creating something new out of them. It requires a combination of curiosity, imagination, and the ability to think critically.

The process of creativity starts by observing the world around us, identifying problems, and looking for opportunities. Once we have identified a problem, we need to analyze it, break it down into smaller components, and start generating ideas to solve it. This is where creativity comes into play. We need to think outside the box, to explore uncharted territories and to challenge what we already know.

Creativity is not just about generating ideas. It is also about the execution of those ideas. It requires perseverance, hard work, and an understanding of the resources available. It is important to note that creativity is not always about success. Failure is a vital part of the creative process. It is through mistakes that we learn how to improve and refine our ideas.

In today’s fast-paced world, creativity is more important than ever before. The rapid advancement of technology has brought many challenges and opportunities, and it is creativity that will help us navigate this new world. It is through creativity that we can create new products, services, and ideas that will change the world for the better.

In conclusion, creativity is an essential aspect of human nature that has the power to solve problems, inspire change, and bring new perspectives to the world. It is not just about artistic talents, and it can be expressed in various fields. Creativity starts by observing the world around us, identifying problems, and looking for opportunities. The execution of those ideas requires perseverance, hard work, and an understanding of the resources available. Creativity is more important than ever before, and it is through creativity that we can create new products, services, and ideas that will change the world for the better.

“Help ever and hurt never” is a simple yet powerful philosophy of life that has been advocated by many great leaders and teachers throughout history. It is a belief that emphasises the value of kindness, compassion, and empathy towards others. The essence of this philosophy lies in the belief that we should always strive to help others in need and avoid causing any harm or hurt to them.

The philosophy of “Help ever and hurt never” is deeply rooted in the principles of love and non-violence. It promotes the idea of treating others with respect and dignity, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background. It encourages us to embrace a spirit of kindness and generosity towards others and to seek their well-being, happiness, and success.

The philosophy of “Help ever and hurt never” is especially relevant in today’s world, where there are so many conflicts and tensions among people. We often see people acting selfishly, putting their own interests above those of others. This attitude not only causes hurt and harm but also creates a sense of distrust and division among people.

The philosophy of “Help ever and hurt never” reminds us of the importance of empathy and compassion towards others. It teaches us to be kind and helpful to those who are less fortunate than us, to be patient with those who may have different views and opinions than ours, and to be forgiving towards those who may have wronged us.

This philosophy is not limited to just individuals but can be applied to different aspects of society as well. For example, corporations can adopt a policy of social responsibility, where they prioritise the welfare of their employees, customers, and the environment over profit-making. Governments can focus on policies that promote social justice, equality, and human rights for all citizens.

In conclusion, the philosophy of “Help ever and hurt never” is a valuable guide to living a meaningful life. It reminds us of the importance of treating others with kindness, empathy, and compassion, and of working towards the well-being of all members of society. By adopting this philosophy, we can create a more harmonious and peaceful world where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

The phrase ‘Live and let live’ is a well-known proverb, which is repeated often in many cultures worldwide. It is a simple motto that reflects both a philosophy and an attitude towards life. It is an expression that emphasises the importance of tolerance, respect, and the idea that everyone has a right to live and be happy. The phrase suggests that we should allow others to live as they choose, without interference or imposing our beliefs on them.

The essence of ‘Live and let live’ is the idea of coexistence. It is a peaceful way of life, where everyone can coexist without any harm or conflict. It is a concept that encourages us to tolerate diversity in our society. By doing so, we create a peaceful and harmonious environment. Tolerance and acceptance of differences are essential for a healthy and prosperous society.

One of the primary reasons why ‘Live and let live’ is essential is that it promotes respect for individual rights. As human beings, we all have the right to freedom, and we should respect each other’s right to live according to our beliefs and principles. This motto provides the foundation for the creation of a society in which everyone can feel valued and accepted regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious, or cultural background.

Another reason why ‘Live and let live’ is significant is that it promotes peace and reduces conflict. When we allow others to live freely without interference or judgment, we eliminate the source of conflicts that arise from differences in beliefs, values, and ideologies. This expression reminds us to focus on our own lives and not to meddle in the lives of others. This helps to reduce the unnecessary tension and conflicts that can arise when we try to impose our beliefs on others.

Furthermore, the motto promotes empathy and understanding. It encourages us to put ourselves in other people’s shoes and understand their perspective. When we do that, we are less likely to judge others for their beliefs, attitudes, or lifestyles. This leads to greater tolerance, respect, and understanding among people of different backgrounds.

In conclusion, ‘Live and let live’ is a simple but powerful phrase that encourages us to respect and accept others’ differences. It promotes peace, tolerance, and harmony, making it an essential concept for a healthy and prosperous society. If we all adopt this principle and live by it, we will create a world where people can coexist peacefully, and everyone can live their lives as they see fit.

Punctuality refers to the habit of being on time or arriving at the scheduled time. It is an essential quality that helps individuals to be more efficient, productive, and respected. Punctuality is also a reflection of one’s personality and character, as it shows one’s level of commitment and responsibility towards others. Thus, punctuality is a vital trait that everyone should possess, whether in personal or professional life.

In personal life, punctuality is necessary to maintain healthy relationships with family and friends. Being late repeatedly can lead to frustration and disappointment in others, which can affect the relationship negatively. Being punctual shows respect for others’ time and effort, which can enhance the bond between individuals. Moreover, punctuality also indicates that one is dependable and trustworthy, which can help build trust and loyalty in relationships.

In the professional world, punctuality is crucial for success in any career. It is an essential trait that employers look for in potential employees. Being punctual at work shows that one is committed, dedicated, and responsible towards their job. Moreover, arriving on time is essential in maintaining productivity, meeting deadlines, and ensuring that work runs smoothly. Punctuality also demonstrates that one is respectful of others’ time and understands the importance of meeting deadlines for the success of the organization.

In addition, punctuality is also essential in social events and gatherings. Being punctual in social events shows one’s respect for the host’s efforts and goodwill. Moreover, it helps to avoid any awkwardness or inconvenience caused by late arrivals. Being punctual in such events requires planning and preparation, which shows one’s organizational skills and ability to manage time.

However, being punctual does not mean being rigid or inflexible. It requires one to be adaptable and flexible to changes in schedules or unexpected events. Moreover, it is essential to communicate in case of any delay or change in schedule to avoid any inconvenience caused to others.

In conclusion, punctuality is a vital trait that reflects one’s personality, character, and professionalism. It is essential in personal and professional life as it shows commitment, responsibility, respect, and trustworthiness towards others. Being punctual helps individuals to be more efficient, productive, and successful in their careers and personal relationships. Thus, everyone should develop the habit of punctuality to lead a more organized, disciplined, and fulfilling life.

Elections are an essential aspect of democracy, where people choose their representatives to make decisions that affect their daily lives. They provide citizens with an opportunity to participate in the political process, to express their views, and select the candidate who would best represent their interests.

The significance of elections cannot be overstated. They offer a chance for the public to hold their leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. Through elections, citizens can choose candidates who share their values and beliefs, and who they believe are capable of representing them, and working towards creating a better future for all.

However, elections are not just about selecting individuals to represent them. They are also a means for people to express their opinions on various issues ranging from social justice to economic growth, security, and international relations. Elections provide a platform for candidates to lay out their plans and policies, for voters to evaluate and decide who they believe would be the best leader.

Elections also serve as a mechanism for the peaceful transfer of power from one government to another. When the results of the election are accepted by all parties, it ensures that the transition of power is undertaken in a peaceful and orderly manner. This is vital for maintaining stability and preventing chaos and violence, which are a common occurrence in countries where democratic principles are absent.

However, for elections to be free and fair, there must be a level playing field, where all candidates have an equal opportunity to campaign and represent themselves to the voters. This requires a transparent and impartial electoral process, where the election commission is independent and unbiased, and all parties follow the rules as laid down in the constitution.

In conclusion, elections are a cornerstone of democracy. They provide the public with an opportunity to have a say in the political process, to elect representatives who would work towards creating a better future for all. They also serve as a mechanism for the peaceful transfer of power, ensuring that the will of the people is respected, and that the transition of power is smooth and peaceful. However, for elections to be truly democratic, they must be free and fair, with a level playing field for all candidates to compete on.

Fine arts are an essential aspect of human life. They are a form of self-expression that allows individuals to convey their emotions and thoughts through creative forms. Fine arts encompass different fields, such as painting, music, literature, dance, and sculpture. They are an integral part of our daily lives, adding value, beauty, and meaning to our existence. This essay explores the importance of fine arts in life and how they contribute to one’s overall well-being.

Firstly, fine arts play a significant role in nurturing our creativity and imagination. They allow us to explore different dimensions of our minds and enrich our thinking processes. For instance, painting, drawing, and other forms of visual arts stimulate the creativity of individuals and enable them to express their unique perspectives. Similarly, music and literature allow individuals to create new worlds of imagination, enabling them to experience emotions that they may not have felt before. Overall, fine arts help individuals to think outside the box and approach problems from different angles, thereby enhancing their critical thinking skills.

Secondly, fine arts provide an avenue for self-expression, helping individuals to understand and communicate their emotions effectively. The arts allow individuals to express their innermost feelings and thoughts in ways that words alone may not be able to capture. For example, music can evoke strong emotions of love, pain, and joy, helping individuals to connect with others and express their emotions in a universal language. Similarly, dance and other forms of movement allow individuals to express themselves through body language, enabling them to communicate even without words.

Thirdly, fine arts provide individuals with a sense of cultural identity and heritage. They allow individuals to connect with their cultural roots and understand their place in the world. For instance, traditional dance, music, and art forms provide individuals with a link to their cultural heritage and help preserve it for future generations. Additionally, the fine arts provide individuals with an opportunity to learn about other cultures and appreciate their unique perspectives and traditions.

Finally, fine arts contribute significantly to one’s overall well-being. They provide individuals with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, helping to reduce stress and promote mental health. Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities such as painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument can lower stress levels, improve mood, and increase self-esteem. Moreover, fine arts provide individuals with an opportunity to connect with others, promoting social cohesion and a sense of community.

In conclusion, fine arts are an essential aspect of human life, providing individuals with a means of self-expression, creativity, and personal growth. Fine arts stimulate the imagination, enable effective communication of emotions, promote cultural identity and heritage, and contribute to overall well-being. As such, it is crucial to promote and support the fine arts for the betterment of individuals and society as a whole.

Humour is a powerful tool that can make the journey of life less stressful and more enjoyable. It has the ability to uplift and inspire, to relieve tension and anxiety, and to bring people closer together. Humour is an essential part of our everyday lives and it plays an important role in shaping our attitudes and outlook towards life.

Firstly, humour can be a valuable coping mechanism during challenging times. When we face difficult situations or emotions, humour can provide a healthy way of dealing with stress and anxiety. A well-timed joke or a funny story can help us shift our focus away from our immediate problems and create a sense of perspective. In this way, humour can be a source of resilience that helps us maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity.

Secondly, humour has the power to bring people together. Sharing a laugh is a universal experience that can break down barriers and create a sense of community. Whether it is through a shared sense of humour or a mutual appreciation of satire, comedy can bring people from different backgrounds and cultures together. In doing so, humour can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.

Thirdly, humour can be a powerful tool for communication. Whether it is in personal relationships or in the workplace, a well-placed joke can diffuse tense situations and facilitate open communication. Humour can help to break down barriers and allow people to express their thoughts and feelings in a more relaxed and open way.

Lastly, humour can help to improve mental and physical health. Laughing can boost our immune system, reduce stress levels, and improve our mood. It has been shown to decrease pain levels, increase blood flow and improve cardiovascular health. Humour can also help to improve mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

In conclusion, humour plays an essential role in our lives. It can help us cope with challenges, bring people together, facilitate open communication, and enhance our overall health and well-being. In a world that can often be stressful and challenging, humour can provide us with a much-needed break from the seriousness of life and remind us of the joy and wonder that life has to offer.

Science fiction is a genre that has been captivating readers and viewers for centuries. It’s a genre that takes us beyond the realms of our imagination and presents futuristic possibilities. Science fiction has always been a fascinating concept, and it has played a vital role in shaping and inspiring scientific advancements.

Firstly, science fiction is a genre that invites readers and viewers to explore the world through a futuristic lens. It is a genre that presents a world beyond the imagination of the viewer. It involves the use of science and technology to create a world that is entirely different from what we know. The genre may involve time travel, space exploration, or even the creation of artificial intelligence. It presents a world that is different from what we know and challenges readers to explore beyond their current knowledge.

Secondly, science fiction has played a crucial role in inspiring scientific advancements. Many of the ideas presented in science fiction have become a reality today. Science fiction writers and filmmakers have created a world of possibilities that have inspired scientists and inventors to explore beyond the boundaries of what is currently known. For instance, science fiction writers have presented the concept of artificial intelligence and robots. Today, we have robots that can perform complex tasks and even interact with humans. Moreover, science fiction has also inspired the exploration of space, and we have made significant strides in space exploration.

Thirdly, science fiction is an essential genre in contemporary society. It allows us to explore the possibilities of the future and the impact of science and technology on our society. Science fiction encourages us to question the role of science and technology in our society and raises ethical questions about the use of science and technology. The genre creates a platform for debate and discussion, which is crucial in shaping our understanding of science and technology.

In conclusion, science fiction is a genre that challenges us to explore beyond our imagination. It has inspired scientific advancements and has played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of science and technology. The genre allows us to explore the possibilities of the future, and it is an essential tool in shaping our understanding of science and technology. Science fiction is not just a form of entertainment; it’s a genre that encourages us to question the world around us and envision a better future.

Knowledge is power is a popular proverb that means knowledge can give an individual a powerful advantage over others. The more someone knows, the better-equipped they are to handle situations. The power that comes with knowledge is unmatched, and it can make a positive difference in an individual’s life.

Knowledge is instrumental in shaping an individual’s life. It assists them in making informed decisions by providing them with accurate information on various issues. With the right information, an individual can choose the best course of action, avoid making mistakes, and stay ahead in life. For instance, if one obtains knowledge about investing, they can make wise decisions about their finances and secure a better future.

Moreover, knowledge is an essential tool for personal growth and development. When an individual acquires new knowledge, they become more aware of their surroundings, more empathetic towards others, and more open-minded in their thinking. Additionally, knowledge plays a crucial role in enhancing an individual’s skills and abilities. With the right knowledge, one can learn new skills, improve their existing expertise, and become more confident in their ability to succeed.

The acquisition of knowledge is not limited to academic learning. An individual can gain knowledge in various ways, such as reading books, attending workshops, watching documentaries, and engaging in conversations. The pursuit of knowledge is never-ending, and it offers an individual’s opportunities for growth and discovery.

In conclusion, knowledge is a powerful instrument that can transform an individual’s life. It provides them with an advantage in decision-making and personal growth while enhancing their skills and abilities. The pursuit of knowledge is a worthwhile endeavor that can lead to positive changes in an individual’s life, and it is a tool that should be embraced by everyone seeking success and fulfillment.

Child labour is a widespread problem all around the world. It is a practice in which children are made to work in order to earn money for their families. This practice has been going on for centuries and is still very much prevalent in many countries.

Child labour is a complex issue, and it can take many forms such as domestic help, factory work, mining, agriculture, and even prostitution. The problem is not just limited to developing countries but is also found in some developed countries. The United Nations defines child labour as “work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential, and their dignity, and that is harmful to their physical and mental development.”

The causes of child labour are many, and they vary greatly from one country to another. In many cases, poverty is the root cause of child labour. Parents who are unable to provide for their families due to lack of resources, turn to child labour as a means of survival. Lack of education is another factor that leads to child labour. Children who are not enrolled in schools are at a higher risk of being forced into labour. Discrimination and conflict are also known to exacerbate the problem of child labour.

The consequences of child labour are severe and long-lasting. Children who are made to work for long hours are deprived of their childhood and are not able to attend school. This, in turn, affects their physical and mental development, and they are often unable to reach their full potential. Children who work in hazardous conditions are at risk of accidents and injuries, and in some cases, their lives are put in danger.

To tackle the issue of child labour, various measures need to be taken. Governments need to implement laws that protect children from exploitation and abuse. Education should be made accessible and affordable to all children, so that they can have the opportunity to go to school and receive an education. Parents must be provided with financial assistance and opportunities so that they can provide for their families without relying on child labour. The public and private sectors must work together to create industries and businesses that provide decent working conditions for adults and do not rely on child labour.

In conclusion, child labour is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. While progress has been made in reducing child labour over the years, more needs to be done to eradicate this practice completely. We must all work together to ensure that children are protected, educated, and given the opportunity to fulfill their potential. Only then can we truly say that we have made progress in ending this injustice.