One more year in our life passes and we are at the dawn of another year. Quizway.in wishes you a tremendous new year which would bring your dream job, happiness and a lot of success.
Now let us see how we can improve ourself in the new year.
Consistency plays a major role in being productive. Most of the people who are average in studies, work related skills, out perform those brilliant people or toppers at the end because of their consistency.
Whatever you do , do it consistently and add skill to it. There should be betterment in your work. We learn many new things and tricks on how to do it easily or in a better way when we get experience.
Health is another major factor for being productive. If you are healthy, you would have more energy and enthusiasm to work for longer hours and the time to fret on your ailments and visits to hospitals gets reduced. So, give ample time for yourself to get good health.
Take frequent breaks from work routine: Whatever we do, we feel it monotonous over time, and the flat plateau of our productive graphs in at one level. Taking breaks, changing the pattern of work gives some relief and energy to restart pir work. Add creativity to your work, and the urge to be creative makes you a tireless warrior.
Have targets: When we achieve targets we would be elated and pur joy is limitless. If we fix some deadlines or targets for our work, that builds a road map at micro level and we can finish of work in the stipulated time and maximise out potential.
Gift your self :
Whenever you achieve a deadline or target, gift yourself with a small present like a delicious lunch, an outing or a gadget, a movie etc. It need not be a costlier one, but enough to keep you motivated. If you want to change your mobile handset or buy a laptop, wait till you reach certain higher level goal. The urge to get a new thing and restricting yourself for work would work wonders.
Learn new things: Learning is what makes successful people away from ordinary people. One can learn at every stage of our life. Just explore the vistas in you work area and try to incorporate those techniques and tactics, which would give you an edge over others and you will exceed others in productivity.
Kisan e-Mitra: Union MoS Kailash Choudhary Launched AI Chatbot for PM-KISAN SchemeKailash Choudhary, Minister of State (MoS) for the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW), launched “Kisan e-Mitra”, an AI (Artificial Intelligence) Chatbotfor the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme in New Delhi, Delhi.
The chatbot will enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the PM-KISAN scheme, providing farmers with rapid, clear, and easily accessible responses to their inquiries.
Points to note: i.The MoA&FW successfully integrated the AI chatbots into government schemes. This is the first AI Chatbot integrated with a major Union government flagship scheme. ii.This initiative is in line with the Government of India’s (GoI) vision of leveraging technology for the betterment of farmers’ lives and governance. About Kisan e-Mitra: Objective:The introduction of the AI chatbot in the PM-KISAN grievance management system is aimed at empowering farmers with a user-friendly and accessible platform. Features: i.The AI Chatbot acts as a comprehensive guide for the beneficiaries, providing them with timely and accurate responses to their queries related to the scheme. ii.It has been developed and improved with the support of the EKstep Foundation and Bhashini. iii.In the initial phase, the AI chatbot assists farmers with:
Application status queries.
Payment details.
Ineligibility status.
Scheme-related updates.
iv.The AI Chatbot, accessible through the PM KISAN mobile app, is integrated with Bhashinifor multilingual support, addressing the linguistic and regional diversity among PM KISAN beneficiaries.
Currently, the Chatbot is available in English, Hindi, Bengali, Odia, and Tamil. In a short period, it will be made available in all 22 official languages of India.
Benefits: The AI Chatbot will help in accessing scheme information and resolving grievances.
The scope of this service needs to broaden with other related issues like weather information, soil conditions bank payments, and others.
Pradhan MantriKisanSamman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme: i.The PM-KISAN is a central sector scheme launched in February 2019 to support the financial needs of land-holding farmers in India (with 100% funding from GoI). ii.The scheme offers an annual financial benefit of Rs 6,000, in 3 equal installments to eligible farmers’ families through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
Department of Social Justice & Empowerment and All World GayatriPariwar signed MoU for NMBA awarenessOn September 22, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been inked between the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E), and All World Gayatri Pariwar at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, Delhi for spreading the message of NMBA among the youth, women, students and the community under the banner of All World Gayatri Pariwar.
This MoU is a boost towards achieving the objective of drug sensitized India.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar, MoSJ&E, Dr. Chinmay Pandya, All World Gayatri Pariwar, among others.
Key Points: i.Alcoholis the most frequently used psychoactive substance in India, followed by Cannabis and Opioids, according to the first comprehensive National Survey on Substance Use conducted by the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment through the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) at AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), New Delhi. ii.MoSJ&E is actively combating drug demand through the implementation of the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR).
NAPDDR is an umbrella scheme that provides financial assistance to State Governments and Union Territories (UTs) for various initiatives, including Preventive Education and Awareness Generation, Capacity Building, Skill Development, Vocational Training, and support for the livelihood of former drug addicts.
About NashaMukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA): In August 2020, MoSJ&E has formulated and launched NMBA in 272 Districts across 32 State/Union Territories identified as most vulnerable in terms of usage of drugs. Its aim is to create awareness about ill effects of substance abuse among the youth, with special focus on higher education institutes, university campuses, schools, among others. About All World GayatriPariwar Head/Mentor– Dr. Pranav Pandya Headquarters– Haridwar, Uttarakhand
SIMBEX 2023: Indian Navy Conducts Maritime Exercise with Singapore at South China SeaThe Indian Navy (IN) and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) participate in the 30th edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX 2023), a joint naval combat exercise, from 21st to 28th September 2023 in the southern parts of the South China Sea off the coast of Singapore. Two Phases: SIMBEX 2023 is conducted in two phases including the land phase and the sea phase. Land Phase:
The land phase will include table-top activities and planning meetings.
It is held from 21st to 24th September 2023 at RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base, Singapore.
Sea Phase:
The sea phase will see the navies engage in various naval drills, including anti-submarine warfare and live weapon firing.
It is held from 25th to 28th September 2023 in the southern reaches of the South China Sea in international waters.
The Harbour Phase will witness a wide range of professional interactions, cross-deck visits, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE) and sports fixtures, aimed at enhancing interoperability and mutual understanding between the two navies.
Participants: i.Indian Navy’s Rajput-class destroyer INS Ranvijay, Kamorta-class corvette INS Kavaratti, Sindhughosh class diesel-electric submarine INS Sindhukesari and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft are taking part in this exercise. ii.The Republic of Singapore Navy’s two Formidable-class frigates Republic of Singapore Ship (RSS) Stalwart and RSS Tenacious, an S-70B naval helicopter, and the Victory-class missile corvette RSS Valour are taking part in this exercise.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is also participating in the exercise with a Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft and four F-15SG fighter aircraft.
Higlights: During the opening ceremony, RSN’s Fleet Commander Colonel (COL) Kwan Hon Chuong and India’s Eastern Naval Command Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkarunveiled the commemorative logo of its 30th edition of the bilateral exercise. Note:
SIMBEX, first held in 1994, is the longest continuous naval exercise that India has had with any other country.
Indian Navy hosted the 29th edition of SIMBEX in October 2022 at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh(AP), India.
Highlights of SIMBEX 2023: i.The Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy will also sign a submarine rescue joint standard operating procedures (JSOP) agreement. ii.During the shore phase, sailors from both navies will conduct joint planning, professional exchanges, and sporting activities. iii.During the sea phase, both fleets will perform a series of naval serials in the air, surface, and underwater domains, including gunnery firing, air defence, anti-submarine, communication, and navigation exercises.
The exercise will be concluded with a sail-past of participating ships.
UPNEDA and SIDBI Signed MoU to Promote Green ProjectsA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been inked between the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA), and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) for solarization of residential units at Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (UP) and for bio-energy and renewable project financing.
The agreement was inked during an event organised in the SIDBI’s Lucknow Office in UP.
This MoU will help in promoting solar energy, and encourage innovations for environment friendly projects.
It should be noted that the State Government of UP has nominated Ayodhyato be developed as a Solar City. Key Points: i.During the event, emphasis were laid on creating awareness about digital and latest initiatives being undertaken by SIDBI through ‘Promotional campaign for Financing Solar/ Green Projects’ for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. ii.It should be noted that the Central Government is installing solar rooftop panels in 2500 MSMEs, and also targets 30% electrification of vehicles by the year 2030, under the EV30@30 mission.
SIDBI is supporting both missions of the Government.
iii.Through this event, information was shared among MSMEs regarding the solar and green projects and direct financing products being offered by SIDBI. About Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA): It is an autonomous institution functioning as nodal agency for implementation of various schemes in the state. Director– Anupam Shukla Headquarters– Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh Establishment– 1983 About Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI): It was established under an Act of Parliament in 1990. Chairman & Managing Director– Sivasubramanian Ramann Headquarters– Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Axis Bank launches ‘NEO for Business’ for MSMEsOn September 21, 2023, Axis Bank launched ‘NEO for Business’, a distinctive one-stop Transaction Banking platform for Indian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This is a first-of-its-kind comprehensive digital proposition that supports real, current, and emerging Transaction Banking needs of MSMEs.
It has contemporary UX (User Experience)/UI (User Interface) along with bank-grade security features.
“NEO for Business” is the latest launch as part of “NEO by Axis Bank” branding. NEO by Axis Bank is the digital banking proposition for its corporate banking customers/clients.
About NEO for Business: i.It offers a wide array of Banking and Beyond Banking features such as: Digital self on-boarding, Bulk Payments, GST Compliant Invoicing, Payment Gateway integration, 360° Customer View, End to End Transaction Tracking, Auto Reconciliation, Recurring Collections, Cash Flow Reports, among others. ii.These features make banking easier for MSMEs, allowing them to do transactions without going to a bank branch. iii.Axis Bank’s existing Current Account holders can access NEO for Business on mobile through an app or web registration. Initially, it serves sole proprietors and individuals in the MSME sector, with plans to expand to companies, partnerships, and LLPs (Limited Liability Partnership). About Axis Bank: Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Amitabh Chaudhry Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra Established in – 1993 (begun operations in 1994) Tagline – Badhti ka Naam Zindagi
Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Launched Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) Using UPI on ATMsUtkarsh Small Finance Bank Limited (USFBL) launched Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) service with an aim to allow Unified Payment Interface (UPI) enabled cardless cash withdrawal from Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Automated Teller Machine (ATM).
This is in line with notification ‘ICCW at ATMs’ released by Reserve Bank of India(RBI) in 2022 under Section 10(2) read with Section 18 of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (Act 51 of 2007).
ICCW is also known as UPI-ATM; It enables withdrawal through Quick Response(QR) code.
About ICCW: i.Card-less cash withdrawal through ATMs is a permitted mode of transaction offered by a few banks in India on an on-us and Off-us basis. ii.UPI users can withdraw cash from any participating banks’ ATMs (enabled for UPI-ATM) via UPI mobile application instead of using a physical card. iii.By scanning single-use dynamic QR code displayed on the ATM screen and authorising the transaction with UPI PIN, a customer can withdraw money from an ATM. iv.As far as transaction Limits is concerned, customers can enjoy up to two ICCW transactions per day per account, with a withdrawal limit of Rs. 10,000/- per transaction. Key Features of ICCW: i.ICCW allows customers to withdraw cash from any ATM, regardless of which bank they use. This is especially convenient for people who have multiple bank accounts. ii.Since the whole transaction is cardless, the card-related frauds like skimming, cloning etc can be reduced. iii.The process is considered to be more secured as it uses dynamic QR code for each transaction. iv.Customers need not carry multiple credit/debit cards. v.It will be useful for customers who have completed KYC (Know Your Customer) but have not yet received a physical card. vi.ICCW allows Cash withdrawal from Multiple UPI-Linked Accounts along with streamlined interaction with ATM Machines. About Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Limited (USFBL): Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Govind Singh Headquarters – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Incorporated in – 2016
Highlights of Raj Bhasha Kirti Puraskar 2022-23
The Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar 2022-23 ,the most prestigious award offered by the Indian government for “achievements in implementing the official language” was presented at the Hindi Diwas Samaroh 2023.This prestigious award ceremony was part of the 3rd All-India Official Language Conference (Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha Sammelan)took place at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi, Pune, Maharashtra, from September 14-15.
Organized and Presented Annually by: Department of Official Language, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Key points:
Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare Receives First Prestigious Raj Bhasha Kirti Puraskar, 2022-23.
Power Finance Corporation (PFC) received the prestigious ‘Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar’ in the ‘A’ category for the year 2022-23. PFC secured the third position in this category.
Banking Institutions such as Punjab National Bank,Bank of Baroda,Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) ,Central Bank of India, UCO Bank and Bank of Maharashtra have been recognised in different categories.
India set to Host 17th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement in 2027 in New Delhi India won the bid to host the 17th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (ICCC) in 2027 in New Delhi, Delhi. The decision was announced during the ongoing 16th ICCC (2023) in Bangkok, Thailand held from 18 to 22 September 2023. Besides India, other bidders were from Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
India’s bid was made by National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM / NCB) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. The bid was presented by Dr L P Singh, Director General, NCCBM; Dr S K Chaturvedi, Joint Director, NCB and Dr Shashank Bishnoi, Professor (Civil Engg.), IIT Delhi.
The 17th ICCC will offer India a unique opportunity to bring together global leaders, experts, and innovators in the cement sector. India previously hosted the 9th Congress in 1992.
The event highlights India’s research and academic expertise in the cement and concrete sector and as the host city New Delhi will showcase its vibrancy with world-class conference facilities, including Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi to the global industry.
About ICCC: The ICCC is regarded as the largest and most prestigious event in the area of Cement and Concrete. These congresses have been held approximately every 4 to 6 years since 1918, serving as a crucial bridge between academia and the cement industry. Note:
NCB, then Cement Research Institute of India (CRI) was founded on 24 December 1962. It is the premier body under the administrative control of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
India’s cement industry, the second-largest in the world, has a low carbon-di-oxide (CO2) footprint and is energy efficient.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Appoints Four New Women Vice-Chairpersons; Panel to Discuss Women’s Reservation BillThe Vice President of India, ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha Jagdeep Dhankhar has reconstituted the panel of vice-chairpersons with the eight member panel with 50 percent(4 members) of women parliamentarians with effect from 13th September 2023.
For the first time in the history of Rajya Sabha (the Upper House of the Indian Parliament) has given equal representation to women members in the panel.The four new women Vice-Chairpersons are: Kanta Kardam(Uttar Pradesh), Sumitra Balmik(Madhya Pradesh), Mamata Mohanta (Odisha) and Geeta alias Chandraprabha(Uttar Pradesh).
13 Women Vice-chairpersons Panel for a Day to Discuss Women’s Reservation Bill
The Vice President of India, ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha Jagdeep Dhankhar has constituted 13 women Parliamentarians to the panel of vice-chairpersons.The panel was reconstituted for a day to discuss the Women’s reservation Bill or Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam 2023.
The panel of vice-chairpersons was constituted for a day specifically to discuss the Women’s Reservation Bill in 2023. This suggests that the panel was formed temporarily to address this particular legislative matter or session to discuss the bill.
Indian-origin NiharMalaviyaAssumes Permanent CEO of Penguin Random House NiharMalaviya, an Indian-origin American publishing executive, has been named permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Penguin Random House, the New York (United States of America, USA)-based international publishing group.
Nihar Malaviya has been serving as the interim CEO for 9 months since January 1, 2023.
Since his appointment as interim CEO, he has been a member of Bertelsmann’s (the parent company of Penguin Random House) Group Management Committee (GMC).
He will succeed Markus Dohle, who left the position following Penguin Random House’s unsuccessful attempt to acquire Simon & Schuster in 2022.
Prior to his appointment as interim CEO, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Penguin Random House, USA since 2014.
He started his career at Bertelsmann in 2001 as a participant in the Bertelsmann Entrepreneurs Programme. In 2003, he moved within the group, joining Random House, where he excelled in various leadership roles.
He also serves on the board of directors of the Association of American Publishers (AAP) and Yale University Press in the USA. He is a two-time recipient of the Bertelsmann Entrepreneur Award for Strategy Execution.
Note: Penguin Random House, the world’s largest trade book publisher, has been undergoing company-wide reorganization since 2023.
Vivek Bhasin Appointed as 14th Director of BARC On 15th September 2023, Vivek Bhasintook charge as the 14th Director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), India’s premier nuclear research facility, headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Prior to this appointment, Vivek was serving as the director of the Nuclear Fuels Group(NFG) of the BARC.
He succeds Ajit Kumar Mohanty who was appointed as the Secretary to Department of Atomic Energy(DAE) under the Prime Minister’s Office(PMO) and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission in May 2023.
Vivek Bhasin joined the Reactor Engineering Division of BARC in 1988. He is known for his contribution towards APSARA-U Reactor (operational in BARC) and Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR)(Operational in Kalpakkam Nuclear Power Plant, Tamil Nadu)
BARC was founded by Homi Jehangir Bhabha in the name Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (AEET) in 1954. AEET was renamed BARC in 1966.
Delhi LG VK Saxenalaunches Vigilance Complaint Information Management System Portal The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar (VK) Saxena launches first of its kind Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS) portal enabling people to file graft complaints against government employees at anytime from anywhere.
Complaints can be related to the vigilance/corruption/demand of bribe.
With transparency and secrecy, this portal will monitor complaints and initiate speedy action.
This portal requires only one time registration.
Key Points: i.To ensure that only genuine complaints are filed on the portal, it is mandated for the complainants to submit an e-undertaking so that he/she can be prosecuted under section 182 of IPC ( Indian Penal Code) for giving false information to public servants. ii.Complaints against corruption received in physical form will not be accepted. iii.This tool will aid in achieving the goal of zero tolerance to corruption.
Batillipeskalami: New Marine Tardigrade Species Found in TN, Named after Former President A.P.J. Abdul KalamResearchers from the Department of Marine Biology of the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) in Cochin, Kerala, have identified a new species of a marine tardigrade, “Batillipeskalami” from intertidal beach sediments of the Mandapam coast in Ramanathapuram (southeast) Tamil Nadu (TN).
The new species is named after Late Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the 11th President of India (2002-2007) and an aerospace scientist, since the discovery was made close to his native place Rameswaram(TN).
The research findings have been published in the 18 September 2023 issue of the scientific journal, Zootaxa.
Genus and Species: i.The new Species ‘Batillipeskalami‘ of the marine tardigrade belongs to the Genus‘Batillipes‘. It is the 37th species of the genus Batillipes. ii.Batillipes kalami is the 2nd marine tardigrade to be discovered in Indian waters and the first one from the east coast.
“Stygarctus keralensis”, the 1st marine tardigrade species from India was discovered from Vadakara(West Coast) in Kerala in 2021.
iii.It is also the first taxonomically described species belonging to the genus Batillipes from India. Tardigrades: i.Marine Tardigrades, often referred to as “water bears”, are eight-legged micro-animals found in the water. They are extremely tiny animals whose size is measured in micrometers. ii.They are considered to be one of the toughest organisms on earth, having survived all five mass extinctions, and are also the first known animals to survive in space.
Tardigrades are semi-aquatic. They can survive in watery as well as terrestrial environments.
Researcher Team: Vishnudattan N.K. (research scholar) and S. Bijoy Nandan (Professor) from the Dept. of Marine Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry at Cusat; and Marcus Rubal from the Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology at the University of Minho, Portugal. Features: i.B. kalami measures an average of 170 micrometers (0.17 mm) in length and around 50 micrometers (0.05 mm) in width. The females are slightly bigger compared to the males. ii.It is characterised by 4 pairs of legs, which possess sensory spines of varying lengths. iii.It has a trapezoid-shaped head with sharp-tipped filament-like appendages (cirri) extending from it. iv.It belongs to the phylum Tardigrada, which comprises more than 1,300 described species. Of them, just 17% are marine species. v.It can be differentiated from all its congeners by:
The presence of unconstricted primary clavae;
2 pairs of lateral body projections between leg II and leg III;
Long and blunt-ended lateral body projections between leg III and leg IV;
The shape of leg IV sensory organs and the presence of dorsal indentations in its head.
Padma Bhushan Awardee & Bharatanatyam Dancer Saroja Vaidyanathan Passed Away Bharatanatyam Dancer and Padma Bhushan Awardee Saroja Vaidyanathan passed away at the age of 86 due to lymphoma diseases in Delhi. About Saroja Vaidyanathan: i.Saroja Vaidyanathan was born on 19 September 1937 in Bellary, Karnataka, and grew up in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
She was married to Vaidyanathan, an IAS officer from the Bihar cadre.
ii.She established “Ganesha Natyalaya” in Delhi, where she teaches Bharatanatyam, Tamil, Hindi, and Carnatic music. iii.She served as the president of “Sanskar Bharathi”, a pan-Indian organisation working in the fields of art and literature, for the Delhi Chapter since 2021. Awards: i.Saroja Vaidyanathan was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2002 and the Padma Bhushan in 2013 in the Arts category.
She received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2008 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi fellowships (Akademi Ratna) award in 2023.
ii.She is also the recipient of Delhi’s government Sahitya Kala Parishad Samman(1991), Tamil Nadu’s government Kalaimamani title(1999),and the title of Bharata Kalai Sudar, from the Pollachi Tamil Isai Sangam.
She was also the recipient of Kalidas Samman(2009-10) of the Government of Madhya Pradesh.
Books Written: Saroja Vaidyanathan has authored a number of books on Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music, including ‘The Classical Dances of India’, ‘Bharatanatyam – An In-Depth Study’, ‘Carnataka Sangeetham’, and ‘The Science of Bharatanatyam’.
Sonal Goel IAS Unveils Her Book “Nation Calling” for IAS aspirants Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Ministry of Earth Sciences has launched a book ‘Nation Calling – Holistic Approach for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination’ authored by IAS officer Sonal Goel Resident Commissioner of Tripura Bhawan in New Delhi, Delhi.
The book was published by UPSC Guide.
The book was launched at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi, Delhi.
The book summarises Sonal Goel’s 15 year experience as an IAS officer which inspires young people to become a bureaucrat.
About Sonal Goel: Sonal Goel, hailing from Panipat, Haryana, is a 2008 batch IAS officer of Tripura Cadre. She joined the Haryana cadre in July 2016 and served as Commissioner of Municipal Corporation of Faridabad(Haryana) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Smart City Faridabad and Deputy Commissioner district Jhajjar(Haryana).
International Day of Sign Languages 2023- September 23The United Nations (UN) International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) is annually observed across the globe on 23 September to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users.
The day also aims to raise awareness of the importance of sign language in the full realisation of the human rights of people who are deaf.
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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 ‘SamudraPrahari’ Carries Out Pollution Response Table-Top Exercise in Bangkok Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Pollution-Control Vessel(PCV) ‘SamudraPrahari’ 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 PuneetSagarAbhiyan.
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 SamudraPrahari: 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 Statusby 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 KarurVysya 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 MaliniRajurkar Passed Away MaliniRajurkar, a noted Hindustani classical vocalist and one of the foremost exponents of Gwalior Gharanapassed 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 ChaudharyaurChunaviDangal’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 22World 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 22World 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
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!
C-DOT & CSIR-NPL Signed an Agreement for Development of NavIC Based IST Traceable PRTC for Telecom Sector Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research(CSIR)-National Physical laboratory (NPL) in New Delhi, Delhi signed an agreement to develop Indian Standard Time (IST) traceable Primary Reference Time Clock (PRTC) to synchronise all the telecom services with one reference time.
The time clock will be based on a regional navigation satellite system called Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC).
The agreement was signed under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme of the Department of Telecommunication(DoT).
The agreement was signed in the presence of Rajkumar Upadhyay, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of C-DOT
: C-DOT is an autonomous telecom Research & Development(R&D) centre under the Department of Telecommunication under the Ministry of Communications. About Primary Reference Time Clock (PRTC): i.The device aims to provide direct IST traceability to all the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) within ± 20 nanoseconds. ii.The device provides several benefits such as reducing the dependency on Global Positioning System (GPS), shifting to NavIC (formerly known as Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)), Improving digital forensic analysis of transactions along with increased cyber secure networks and reduced call drops. Why PRTC? i.Time synchronisation of TSPs and ISPs is essential for a nation’s cybersecurity, as all financial transactions, stock market trades, and communication are routed through them. ii.The development of the PRTC is also an important step towards achieving the objective of “One nation One time“.
This is because it will ensure that all telecom networks in India are synchronised with the same time source.
About Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme: TTDF Scheme was launched in 2022 by Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), a body under the DoT.
TTDF Scheme (TTDF) aims to fund R&D in rural-specific communication technology applications.
It brings together academia, startups, research institutes, and industry to build and develop the telecom ecosystem.
Additional Info: i.Indian R&D has the potential to develop innovative solutions for the future. ii.To achieve the goal of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), the collaboration in areas of mutual interest is needed. About Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT): Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Rajkumar Upadhyay Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi Established in – 1984 About Council of Scientific and Industrial Research(CSIR) – National Physical laboratory (NPL): The National Physics Laboratory(NPL) was the first among the chain of national laboratories to be set up under CSIR. Director – Venugopal Achanta Located in – New Delhi, Delhi Established in – 1950
MSDE Minister DharmendraPradhan launches ‘Skills on Wheels’ with NSDC and IndusInd Bank to Promote SkillingUnion Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) launched ‘Skills on Wheels’ initiative in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and IndusInd Bank.MSDE minister and Shri Om Birla,Speaker, Lok Sabha have jointly launched the initiative during the inauguration of the program ceremony. Aim: To equip rural youth, especially women, with key digital skills and make them job and future-ready About Initiative: i.This initiative will empower 60,000 youth over a period of 5 years with relevant skills training to improving the livelihood of rural households. ii.To bring the Skill India Mission to the farthest areas of India, a specially equipped bus with retrofitted tools and resources known as ‘Skills On Wheels’ will travel to remote areas. iii.It will also spreading awareness at grass root level about free skill training programs. iv.It will empower youth with industry-relevant skill training, enhancing both theoretical and practical knowledge.
It will align candidates’ academic backgrounds, aptitudes, and skill sets with the right courses, thereby bridging the industry’s skill gap and reducing youth unemployment.
About Skill India Mission:
Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi launched the Skill India Mission in 2015 in accordance with his vision to help India become ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant).
This initiative was aimed to create and implement comprehensive skill development training programmes that would help bridge the gap between industry demands and skill requirements.
About National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC): NSDC was set up by Ministry of Finance as Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. The Government of India through Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) holds 49% of the share capital of NSDC, while the private sector has the balance 51% of the share capital. It is a not-for-profit public limited company under section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 (corresponding to section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013). CEO– Ved Mani Tiwari Establishment– 2008 Headquarters– New delhi, Delhi
Global Report on Hypertension: WHO Released 1st Report on the Impacts of Hypetension & Ways to Stop ItThe World Health Organization (WHO) released it’s first-ever report on the global impact of hypertension (high Blood Pressure –BP) titled, “Global Report on Hypertension: the race against a silent killer”, along with recommendations on the effective hypertension care to save lives.
Hypertension, also known as high or raised blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood vessels have persistently raised pressure.
This comprehensive report features statistics underscoring the consequences of uncontrolled hypertension, ranging from heart attacks, strokes, and premature death to substantial economic loss.
About World Health Organisation (WHO): Director-General- Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland Established on- 7 April 1948
ISO and UNDP Partnership to enhance achievement of SDGThe International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a Statement of Intent(SoI) to use International Standards as a tool in advancing the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).
The collaboration also aims to develop the first international standard for the SDGs based on UNDP’s SDG Impact Standards and relevant ISO standards.
The partnership is in alignment with SDG17 – Partnerships for Goals.
About the partnership: i.The collaboration will develop a common basis for documentation and certification, making it easier for organizations and companies to align their efforts and document progress toward the SDGs. ii.The collaboration will design New management standards for the benefit of businesses and investors.
This is to make sustainability and the SDGs as intrinsic part of business instead of being as an add-on element.
Better practices in business will lead to better outcomes for business.
About United Nations Development Programme(UNDP): Administrator – Achim Steiner Headquarters – New York, United States of America (USA) Established in – 1966 About International Organization for Standardization (ISO): President – Ulrika Francke Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland Members – 169 national standards bodies. Established – 1947
RBI: Household Savings fall to 5-decade Low at 5.1% in FY23,RBI Imposes Penalties on Four Cooperative BanksNet financial savings of households declined to a historically low level, reaching 5.1% of GDP in FY23. This marked a notable decrease from the previous fiscal year, where it stood at 7.2% (FY22), as per RBI data.
National Financial Switch (NFS) usage was decreased from 11.5% in FY21 to 5.1% in FY23, as per data from RBI’s Flow of Financial Assets and Liabilities of Household released on September 2023.
Household financial liabilities saw a substantial increase, rising to 5.8% of GDP in FY23, up from 3.8% in FY22. This indicates that households have increasingly relied on borrowing to meet their consumption needs.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposes monetary penalties on four cooperative banks Lalbaug Cooperative Bank Ltd (Gujarat), Cooperative Bank of Mehsana Ltd (Gujarat), Harij Nagrik Sahakari Bank Ltd (Gujarat),and National Cooperative Bank Ltd (Maharashtra) citing its authority under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, specifically Section 47 A (1) I in conjunction with Sections 46 (4) (i) and 56.
About Reserve Bank of India (RBI): Governor– Shaktikanta Das Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra Established – April 1, 1935
ADB lowers India’s GDP projection for FY23 to 6.3%; India Ratings revises India’s FY24 GDP growth to 6.2%The Asian Development Bank (ADB) in its Asian Development Outlook (ADO) September 2023 lowered India’s gross domestic product (GDP) projection by one percentage point for Fiscal 2022-2023 (FY23) to 6.3% from 6.4% (ADO April 2023 estimate).
For FY 2023-2024 (FY24), the GDP projection is retained at 6.7%.
India Ratings Revises India’s FY24 GDP Growth Estimates to 6.2% India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) revised India‘s GDP growth estimate for FY24 to 6.2% from 5.9% projected in February 2023. .
This increase is due to the sustained government capital expenditure, deleveraged balance sheet of India Inc and banks, and the prospect of a new private corporate capex cycle.
About Asian Development Bank (ADB): President– Masatsugu Asakawa Headquarters– Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines, Establishment– 1966
S&P Global raises India’s FY24 Growth Projection to 6.6% On September 18, 2023, S&P (Standard & Poor’s) Global raised India’s growth prediction for FY24 to 6.6% from 5.9% predicted in August 2023 amid strong growth in the April-June quarter (Q1FY24).
In FY25, it will increase at a rate of 6.2% as compared to 6.1% projected in August 2023.
Key Points: i.India’s inflation rate will grow sharply to 6% in 2023 as compared to 5.1% prediction in August 2023.
India’s inflation rate is anticipated to be high, at 5.3% in 2024.
Global inflation will reach 5.7% in 2023 and over 4% in 2024.
ii.India’s economic growth momentum was buoyant in Q1FY24, growing at a pace of 7.8% year-on-year (y-o-y), supported by robust growth in domestic demand. iii..The deceleration of global economic growth will exert pressure on India’s exports.
TCS Partners with BankID BankAxept AS to Enhance Norway’s Financial Infrastructure Tata Consultancy Services(TCS), a part of the Tata group, has entered a partnership with BankID BankAxept AS, Norway’s national payment and electronic identity system, to set up and manage an operations command center that will enhance the resilience, security, and availability of Norway’s financial infrastructure.
BankID is the Norwegian eID verification system, used by more than 90% of the population, banks, government agencies, and commercial enterprises.
i.As part of the agreement, TCS will build and manage a 24×7 operations command center in Oslo, Norway, for all BankID BankAxept AS users and clients. ii.It will enable immediate responses to any service disruption, security issues, or client requests that are related to Norway’s essential national payments and electronic identity verification systems. iii.TCS will operate a specialised monitoring platform at the new command center that can predict, respond, and prevent any issues in the value chain from affecting the larger financial services ecosystem. About Norway: Prime Minister(PM) – Jonas Gahr Støre Capital – Oslo Currency – Norwegian Krone
IAF Tested ‘Type V Heavy Drop System’ from Cargo AircraftThe Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully tested the indigenously developed ‘Type V Heavy Drop System’ from a cargo aircraft which is capable of paradropping arms, ammunition, and other equipment to inaccessible places/battlefields.
The design of this system has been developed by Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra, Uttar Pradesh (UP).
The parachute was developed under the ‘Make In India’ initiative.
About Type V Heavy Drop System: i.The parachute is manufactured by Airbornics Defence and Space Private Limited. ii.It is a multi-stage parachute system comprises of eight Main canopies, three extractor parachutes and one drogue parachute. iii.The parachute weighs up to 20 tons. iv.It has a platform which is made up of a special Aluminium-based metal. v.The parachute also has electrical, electronic and mechanical systems along with other latching accessories. Can be used with: The Type V Heavy Drop System can be used with the Boeing C-17, Lockheed Martin C-130 and other C-series aircraft. Additional Info: i.With this testing, the preparations have been completed for the induction of the Type V Heavy Drop System into the Indian Armed Forces. About Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE): The ADRDE is a Research & Development(R&D) laboratory of the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO). Director – Manoj Kumar Headquarters – Agra, Uttar Pradesh Established in – 1969 About Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of the Air Staff – Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi Established in – 1932
GRSE Signed MoUs with Lloyd’s Register & Caterpillar Inc for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ferry & Medium-Speed EnginesThe Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited signed two non-binding Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with foreign companies during the Defense and Security Equipment International (DSEI) Exhibition in London, United Kingdom (UK) which took place from 12th – 15th September 2023 at the Excel in London’s Royal Victoria Dock.
These MoUs are in line with India’s commitment to advance innovative green energy technologies and promote sustainable, cost-effective alternative fuels.
GRSE MoU’s with Foreign Companies: The two non-binding and confidential in nature MoUs
With Lloyd’s Register for the development of a hydrogen fuel cell ferry
With Caterpillar Inc. for a potential collaboration in the production, sale, and service of medium-speed engines, particularly for the Indian Navy (IN) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
Note:
GRSE is a Mini Ratna Category 1 Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Defence.
Lloyd’s Register is a 260-year-old company that works towards finding sustainable solutions to maritime transportation.
Caterpillar Inc. is an American construction, mining and other engineering equipment manufacturer.
Key Points: i.GRSE has also entered into a MoU with Goa-based DEMPO Group to construct commercial vessels at its three premier shipyards of DEMPO at DSEPL Goa and Modest Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd Bhavnagar, Gujarat.
This represents GRSE’s first venture into commercial shipbuilding following their groundbreaking public-private partnerships in India’s warship-building sector.
ii.The Central Government also plans to build hydrogen-fueled electric vessels, in line with the Global Maritime Green Transitions initiative, in partnership with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Additional info: i.Munition India Limited(MIL), Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Limited (AW&EIL), Yantra India Limited(YIL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited(BDL) were the other PSU’s that participated in DSEI exhibition. ii.The Indian Pavilion in the exhibition was inaugurated by Vikram Doraiswami, India’s High Commissioner to the UK on 12th September 2023. About Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited: Chairman & Managing Director– Cmde PR Hari, IN Retd Headquarter– Kolkata, West Bengal
ISSF Rifle/Pistol World Cup 2023 Rio de Janeiro: India Ends Campaign with Two MedalsInternational Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Rifle/Pistol World Cup 2023 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was held from 12th – 19th September 2023. India finished 5thin the medal tally with 2 medals(1 Gold and 1 Silver).
The World Cup Rifle/Pistol 2023 Rio de Janeiro was the final stage of the ISSF World Cup for rifle and pistol shooters.
Note: A total of 16 Indian shooters took part in the ISSF World Cup in Rio. Medal Tally:
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Oceanne Muller of France and Jiale Zhang of China won the silver and bronze medals respectively in the same event.
This has been Elavenil’s second individual ISSF World Cup medal since she won the gold in the women’s 10m air rifle event in ISSF World Cup Rio in 2019.
ii.India’s Nischal won the silver medal in the Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions while Jeanette Hegg Duestad of Norway and Stephanie Laura Scurrah Grundsoee of Denmark won the gold and bronze medals respectively.
This event marks Nischal’s first senior World Cup appearance.
iii.The 19-year-old Nischal created a qualification national record in the Women’s 3 Positions event by shooting a solid 587 in relay one.
Previously Anjum Moudgil and Ayushi Podder held qualification national record with a short in relay two.
Anjum Moudgil and Ayushi Podder also participated in this event and finished 10th and 35th place respectively.
About ISSF World Cup:
The 2023 ISSF World Cup comprised 13 stages including the final of competitions held across various cities in the world.
The 2023 ISSF World Cup final will be held from 18th – 26th November 2023.
About the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF): ISSF is the governing body of the Olympic shooting events in rifle, pistol and shotgun (clay target) disciplines, and of several non-Olympic shooting sports events. President– Luciano Rossi Headquarters– Munich, Germany Established – 1907
MIB Secretary Apurva Chandra released E-Book titled “People’s G20”, on India’s G20 Presidency Apurva Chandra, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting(MIB) unveiled an ebook, titled “People’s G20”, which provides the comprehensive documentation of India‘s journey during its G20 Presidency, in New Delhi, Delhi.
The e-book was prepared by research unit of Press Information Bureau(PIB).
The eBook is divided into three parts:
The 1st part focuses on the historic G20 Summit held in New Delhi from 9th -10th September 2023.
The 2nd part offers a summary of the meetings conducted by various Working Groups under the Sherpa and Finance Track.
The 3rd part presents a captivating photo essay that captures the essence of the Jan-Bhagidari events(awareness events about G20) held across India during India’s presidency.
International Day of Peace 2023- September 21The United Nations (UN) International Day of Peace also known as “World Peace Day” is annually observed across the globe on 21 September and is dedicated to strengthening the principles of peace both within and among all nations and peoples, advocating for 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
The 2023 theme of International Day of Peace (IDP) is, “Actions for peace: Our ambition for the #GlobalGoals“.
Background: i.In 1981, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared the 3rd Tuesday of September as International Day of Peace. This day coincided with the opening day of the regular annual sessions of the General Assembly. ii.The first IDP was observed on 21 September 1982 (3rd Tuesday of September 1982). iii.In 2001, the UNGA declared 21 September of every year as an official date for the IDP. The day will henceforth be observed as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence.
During the IDP, the UN invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities.
iv.The UN Peace bell is rung in the UN headquarters in New York City, the United States of America (USA), to signal the call for global peace.
World Alzheimer’s Day 2023- September 21World Alzheimer’s Day is annually observed across the globe on 21 September to raise awareness and challenge the stigma that persists around Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common type of dementia and other forms of dementia.
The day also aims to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatments.
World Alzheimer’s Day is observed during the World Alzheimer’s Month.
Background: i.World Alzheimer’s Day was launched during the opening of ADI’s annual conference in Edinburgh, Scotland on 21 September 1994 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of ADI. ii.In 2010, ADI launched the first awareness campaign, “World Alzheimer’s Month”, as a pilot campaign in 12 countries.
Since 2012, World Alzheimer’s Month is annually observed during the month of September.
About Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI): Chief Executive Officer– Paola Barbarino Headquarters– London, UK Founded in– 1984
UP Launched Instant Birth Registration for Newborns at Govt Health FacilitiesUttar Pradesh (UP) Government has integrated its Maa Navjaat Tracking app (MaNTrA) with the birth registration system, to enable the immediate issuance of birth registration certificates for newborns at the Government health facilities in UP.
This will enhance citizen convenience and eliminate the need for parents to apply separately.
With this development, UP has become the first state to implement ‘Suo Motu’ automatic birth registration for government health institutions verified through the Civil Registration System (CRS) portal.
Partners of the initiative: The Directorate of Census Operations, Lucknow (UP), has partnered with the UP National Health Mission (NHM-UP), the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), and the Office of the Registrar General of India, Delhi, aims to facilitate the generation of automatic birth registration certificates at government facilities. MaNTrA app: i.The MaNTrA app, originally developed in UP in collaboration with UNICEF, monitors the quality of services in the labour room and has been successfully deployed in public health facilities in UP. ii.The seamless integration of the MaNTrA app with the birth registration system is a significant step towards increasing the ‘ease of living’ of a common citizen by creatively using digital technology architecture. Note: In August 2023, the MaNTrA for Delivery Point Health Facilities, under the NHM-UP, received the “Silver Award” in the “Government Process Re-engineering for Digital Transformation” category of the National Awards for e-Governance Scheme 2023. Process: i.The CRS (Office of Registrar General, India) Application Programming Interface (API) retrieves data for 17 fields from the MaNTrA, managed by NHM-UP. ii.The API is now acting as registrar in all government health institutions up to the primary healthcare level.
A total of approximately 2,500 birth certificates have already been issued.
iii.The data is then configured into a birth certificate, digitally signed by the hospital registrar. Note: The initiative has started in about 1,000 public health facilities, with plans to expand it to every government facility. The objective is to ensure that Automatic Birth Registration Certificates are issued on the spot in each case. About Uttar Pradesh: Chief Minister– Yogi Adityanath Governor– Anandiben Patel Stadiums– Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex (Greater Noida Cricket Stadium, Indoor) and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Sports Stadium (Outdoor)
Startup Odisha Launches Rs 100 Crore Startup Growth Fund Startup Odisha, an initiative of the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises(MSME) Department of the Odisha government, launched “Odisha Startup Growth Fund (OSGF)” worth Rs 100 Crore in collaboration with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).
SIDBI will serve as the fund manager for the new fund and will be responsible for framing the investment strategy and managing the fund’s portfolio.
Odisha Startup Growth Fund operates a Fund-of-Funds vehicle to invest in state startups through a centralized tracking and implementation mechanism.
The Odisha government will replenish the fund once Rs 100 crore gets exhausted.
The nature of the investments from the fund will be based on equity and quasi-equity.
The fund will invest in startups of Odisha over five years through Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
HP CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Launches Integrated Electricity Consumer Portal Himachal Pradesh(HP) Chief Minister(CM) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Integrated Electricity Consumer Portal of Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) on the occasion of Engineer’s Day on 15th September 2023.
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Union Minister JyotiradityaScindia Inaugurates ‘UdaanBhawan’ and ‘E-wallet’ Facility in DelhiOn 18th September 2023, Union Minister JyotiradityaScindia, Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), inaugurated ‘UdaanBhawan,’ 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 UdaanBhawan: 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 ofRs. 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 KisanRin Portal, WINDS Manual and Door to Door KCC CampaignOn September 19, 2023, Union Minister NirmalaSitharaman , Ministry of Finance; and Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoAFW), inaugurated KisanRin 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 BimaYojana, and RWBCIS forRestructuredWeather 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 MoUWith 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 LifeEmerging 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 YONOThe 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.
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 PratapPawarwho 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 MechanismThe 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 theKalyani 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 Kunjumaniwere 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 18World 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&DAlong 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 ParshottamRupala 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 theMTU-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 16The 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 16International 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 PramodSawant Launched GrihaAdhar Scheme to Empower Homemakers PramodSawant, Goa Chief Minister (CM) distributed GrihaAdhar 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.
GrihaAdhar 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 ofVishwakarmaJayanti, the Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi dedicated the Phase -1 of the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC), also known as Yashobhoomito the nation located in Dwarka Sector 25, New Delhi, Delhi. ii.He also launched PM VishwakarmaSchemecovering 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, AnoopRajappan (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 JagdeepDhankhar Conferred 84 artistes with SangeetNatakAkademiAmrit Awards 2022On September 16, 2023, the Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar presented the one-time SangeetNatakAkademiAmrit 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 SangeetNatakAkademi: 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 advancedstate-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 LankaIndia 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 CouncilPresident – 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 17World 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 themeof 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.
Wildlife conservation refers to the practice of protecting and preserving the natural habitats and species of wildlife from extinction. This is done to maintain the balance of the ecosystem and prevent the negative impact of human activities on wildlife. It is crucial to protect wildlife to ensure that future generations can enjoy the same natural beauty and resources as we do today.
Conservation of wildlife is essential as it helps to protect the biodiversity of the planet. Biodiversity refers to the variety of plant and animal species that exist on Earth, and it is crucial for maintaining a stable and healthy ecosystem. The loss of biodiversity can have far-reaching consequences, such as food scarcity, climate change, and the extinction of unique species. Wildlife conservation, therefore, plays a crucial role in preserving the planet’s biodiversity.
Another important reason for wildlife conservation is the protection of endangered species. Endangered species are those that are at risk of becoming extinct due to factors such as habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change. The conservation of endangered species is critical to maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and ensuring that important species do not disappear forever. Protecting endangered species also helps to preserve cultural and historical heritage, as many of these species have cultural and religious significance.
Wildlife conservation also provides significant economic benefits. Many communities rely on wildlife tourism as a source of income, which is dependent on the presence of biodiversity. Wildlife tourism contributes significantly to global GDP and provides jobs and livelihoods to many people. Conservation of wildlife, therefore, not only benefits the environment but also supports economic growth and development.
In conclusion, wildlife conservation is essential for the preservation of the planet’s biodiversity, protection of endangered species, and economic benefits. It is important for all of us to take responsibility for protecting wildlife, and we can do this by supporting conservation efforts and making changes in our daily lives to reduce our impact on the environment. By working together, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty and resources of our planet.
Ants are fascinating creatures that have a lot to teach us about hard work and determination. These tiny insects are known for their ability to work together in a highly organized and efficient manner to build complex colonies, gather food, and protect their queen.
One of the most remarkable things about ants is their incredible strength. Despite their small size, some ants can carry objects that are many times their own body weight. This is because they have a special ability to distribute the weight of the object they are carrying among multiple ants, allowing them to work together to accomplish tasks that would be impossible for them individually.
Ants are also known for their impressive teamwork. They communicate with each other using pheromones and work together to accomplish common goals. This allows them to be highly efficient and effective in completing complex tasks.
In addition to being hard workers, ants are also adaptable creatures. They are able to adapt to changes in their environment and find new ways to survive and thrive. They are able to find food and shelter in a wide variety of settings, from forests and deserts to urban environments.
As humans, we can learn a lot from ants about the power of hard work, determination, and teamwork. By working together and being adaptable, we can accomplish great things and overcome even the most difficult challenges.
Climate change is a major issue that is affecting our planet today. It refers to the long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other weather patterns that are caused by human activities, such as burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. The effects of climate change are felt globally and can have severe consequences on the environment, economy, and social well-being of humans.
One of the most significant consequences of climate change is global warming. The increase in greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, from human activities is causing the Earth’s temperature to rise. This has resulted in melting of Arctic sea ice, rising sea levels, and increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires.
Furthermore, climate change also has severe impacts on biodiversity. As temperatures increase, some species may not be able to tolerate the new conditions and may be forced to migrate to new habitats or face extinction. This in turn can disrupt the food chain, leading to further ecological imbalances.
In addition, climate change has significant economic costs. Extreme weather events can cause damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses, leading to significant economic losses. Climate change can also lead to the loss of livelihoods in sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and fishing.
To mitigate the impacts of climate change, we need to adopt sustainable practices and reduce our carbon footprint. This can involve reducing the use of fossil fuels, promoting renewable energy, and adopting cleaner technologies. Additionally, we need to protect and restore our natural ecosystems, which can act as carbon sinks and help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
In conclusion, climate change is a major issue that requires immediate attention and action. It is imperative that we work together to mitigate its impacts and ensure a sustainable future for ourselves and for generations to come.
Deforestation is the deliberate clearing of forests, usually by humans, for the purposes of agricultural, industrial or urban development. This environmental issue has become one of the most pressing problems of our time. It puts at risk the survival of many plant and animal species, the stability of our climate, and the well-being of local communities.
Firstly, deforestation is a major threat to biodiversity. Forests are home to countless species of plants and animals, many of which are only found in specific regions of the world. When forests are cut down and destroyed, not only do these species lose their habitat, but they also become vulnerable to extinction. In fact, many species are already endangered or critically endangered due to deforestation.
Secondly, deforestation contributes to climate change. Trees play a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When forests are destroyed, this natural process is disrupted and more carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming. Deforestation is responsible for approximately 15% of greenhouse gas emissions, making it a major contributor to climate change.
Thirdly, deforestation has a significant impact on local communities. Forests provide vital resources such as food, water, and medicine to millions of people around the world. When forests are cut down and destroyed, these communities are left without these important resources. Additionally, deforestation can lead to soil erosion, flooding, and other environmental disasters that can harm communities.
To address the issue of deforestation, it is important to implement sustainable practices. This includes developing and implementing programs that promote sustainable forestry, conserving and restoring degraded forests, and promoting the use of alternative sources of energy. It is also important to educate people about the importance of forests and the impact of deforestation on the environment and local communities. Programs like ‘Vanmahotsav’ helps plant more trees and help spread the cover of trees.
In conclusion, deforestation is a complex environmental issue that poses a threat to biodiversity, climate stability, and human well-being. It is important to address this issue through sustainable practices and education to ensure that forests continue to provide vital resources and benefits for generations to come.
Science fair is a platform that encourages students to explore and experiment with various scientific concepts, theories, and principles. It is an event where students showcase their skills and knowledge about science and technology, and compete with each other to win prizes and recognition. Science fairs are an essential part of the school curriculum, as they offer students an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge into practical experiments, and enhance their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Recently, our school organised a science fair, which was a tremendous success. Students from different claases participated, and the level of enthusiasm and creativity was impressive. The fair was organised over two days, and the school was abuzz with excitement and energy.
The fair began with a brief opening ceremony, where the principal gave an inspiring speech about the importance of science in our daily lives. After that, the students displayed their projects in the school auditorium, where judges and visitors could view them. The projects were divided into various categories, such as physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental sciences.
The projects were diverse and fascinating. Some students demonstrated the effect of a solar eclipse on plant growth, while others showed the properties of chemical reactions. There were also projects that highlighted the impact of deforestation on the environment, and the importance of preserving natural resources. Students used a variety of materials and tools to make models, charts, and graphs for their projects, and explained the concepts behind them with confidence and ease.
The judges evaluated the projects based on several criteria, such as creativity, scientific accuracy, and presentation skills. They interacted with the students and asked questions to understand their thought process and approach. The students, in turn, showed great enthusiasm and eagerness to share their knowledge and insights.
The fair was not just an opportunity to display scientific prowess but also allowed children to learn from each other. The students were not only impressed but also learned a lot from the projects of their peers. The discussions and debates that followed helped them gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and principles involved in the projects.
The science fair was a great success, and it was a proud moment for the school. It showcased the brilliance and creativity of our students and demonstrated how science can be both exciting and fun. The fair not only helped the students develop their scientific knowledge but also fostered their communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills. It was a celebration of science and learning, and we are certain that it will pave the way for more such events in the future.
In conclusion, science fairs are an essential part of the academic curriculum, and they provide students with a platform to showcase their skills, knowledge, and creativity in the field of science. Such events help inspire young students to pursue careers in science and technology, and encourage them to explore and experiment with new ideas and concepts. We hope that our school will continue to organize such fairs in the future, and help build a strong foundation for the next generation of scientists and innovators.
As a student, one of the most memorable parts of my school days is the morning assembly. This daily ritual is not simply a boring routine, but a time of gathering that invoked a sense of community and shared purpose among the students and faculty alike. The morning assembly holds a special place in our hearts, and its impact on our lives is immense.
The morning assembly is generally held in the school courtyard, with all the students and faculty members in attendance. The assembly begins with a prayer, which everyone sings with great devotion and enthusiasm. This is followed by the recitation of the Pledge, which reminds us of our duty and loyalty to our country. It is a great feeling to stand with our peers and recite the pledge in unison. This act makes us feel united and strong.
After the Pledge, we are treated to a variety of inspirational speeches and announcements by our teachers and Principal. These speeches encourage us to strive for excellence, be kind to one another, and embrace the values of honesty, respect, and hard work. Our teachers share their experiences and wisdom with us, imparting invaluable life lessons that we carry with us outside of the classroom.
Apart from speeches and announcements, the morning assembly also features performances by students. This is another highlight of the assembly, as it gives us a chance to showcase our talents and shine in front of the entire school. From dance performances to musical recitals, the assembly provides us with a platform to express ourselves creatively and gain confidence.
In conclusion, the morning assembly is an integral part of my school experience. It is a time of gathering, learning, and inspiration that leaves a lasting impression on my life.
Peace is an essential aspect of life that ought to be embraced by all individuals. It refers to the state of harmony, tranquility and freedom from hostile actions or thoughts. Peace can be achieved within an individual, a community, a country or globally, and its significance cannot be overstated. It is imperative to understand the importance of peace in all aspects of life.
Firstly, peace promotes stability and better relationships among individuals, communities and countries. It aids in creating a conducive environment where individuals can coexist peacefully, share resources and ideas without fear of physical harm or discrimination. In the case of countries, peace ensures that they can establish diplomatic relations, trade and cooperate in various aspects such as technology, education and health care. This, in turn, strengthens international treaties and alliances, thereby promoting global stability.
Secondly, peace fosters economic growth and development. When there is peace, countries can attract investors, establish trade relations and open up to new markets. This creates job opportunities, increases productivity, and leads to the growth of the economy. A peaceful environment also fosters innovation and creativity, leading to new inventions and technologies that promote economic growth.
Thirdly, peace promotes social progress and human rights. In a peaceful society, individuals can exercise their fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion and association without fear of retaliation or persecution. In addition, peace promotes equality, social justice and the rule of law, which are critical elements of social progress. A peaceful society ensures that everyone has equal access to education, health care and other social amenities, regardless of their social, economic or political status.
Finally, peace promotes environmental sustainability. A peaceful society recognizes the importance of preserving natural resources, protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. This ensures that future generations can enjoy a healthy and sustainable environment.
In conclusion, peace is essential for the stability, growth and development of individuals, communities, countries and the world at large. It promotes better relationships, economic growth, social progress, human rights and environmental sustainability. As individuals, we have a responsibility to cultivate a peaceful environment within us and extend it to the larger society. It is only through peace that humanity can achieve its full potential and create a better world for future generations.
As I strolled along the river side, I couldn’t help but marvel at the breathtaking scenery. The sun was shining brightly in the sky, and the water sparkled and glittered as it flowed by. The sound of the water was soothing, and a cool breeze blew across my face, making the hot day more bearable.
I saw a variety of boats moored by the shore. Some were small canoes, while others were larger, luxurious yachts. People were fishing, rowing and picnicking by the river side, making the area lively and bustling with activity.
The trees and plants along the river side provided a sense of tranquility and calmness. The green leaves swayed gently in the wind, and the flowers bloomed in a myriad of colours, adding to the beauty of the surroundings.
As I continued my walk, I saw several ducks swimming in the river, and their quacks filled the air. Further down the river side, I saw a family of swans gracefully gliding through the water.
As the sun began to set, the sky was painted in vibrant hues of red, orange and pink. The reflection of the sky on the water was a sight to behold, and I felt lucky to have witnessed such a beautiful moment.
As I left the river side, I felt rejuvenated and refreshed. The natural beauty had lifted my spirits, and I looked forward to returning and experiencing it again.
Electric vehicles have become a buzzword in the automotive industry in recent years. With the increasing concerns about global warming, air pollution, and depleting oil reserves, electric vehicles offer a sustainable solution for transportation. Electric vehicles are powered by battery-electric motors and do not emit any harmful pollutants, making them environmentally friendly. The demand for electric vehicles is on the rise, with more and more people opting for electric vehicles over conventional diesel -powered vehicles.
Firstly, electric vehicles are eco-friendly. Transportation is one of the significant contributors to air pollution, and conventional diesel-powered vehicles emit harmful pollutants that contaminate the air we breathe. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, do not produce any tailpipe emissions, making them an ideal solution to reduce air pollution. By adopting electric vehicles, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.
Secondly, electric vehicles are cost-effective. Although electric vehicles have a higher purchase price than their conventional counterparts, they offer significant savings in the long run. Electric vehicles have lower operating costs as they require less maintenance, no oil changes, and lower fuel costs. Moreover, electric vehicles are more energy-efficient, which means they require less fuel to go the same distance as diesel-powered vehicles.
Thirdly, electric vehicles offer a better driving experience. Electric vehicles are quieter and smoother than gasoline-powered vehicles as they do not have a combustion engine. Moreover, electric vehicles offer instant torque, making them faster and more responsive than gasoline-powered vehicles. Electric vehicles also offer a more comfortable driving experience, as they have a low center of gravity, which makes them more stable and provides better handling.
In conclusion, electric vehicles are the future for us. Switching to electric vehicles will not only help us reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment but will also offer significant cost savings in the long run. With advancements in battery technology, electric vehicles are becoming more accessible, and we can expect to see more electric vehicles on the road in the near future. It is time for us to embrace this change and contribute towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Accidents are an unfortunate and inevitable part of life. They can happen at any time, anywhere, and to anyone. One of the most common forms of accidents is a road accident. A road accident is when two or more vehicles collide or when a vehicle collides with a pedestrian or an animal on the road. It is a tragic event that can have devastating consequences for those involved.
I still remember the day when I witnessed a road accident. It was a sunny day, and the sky was blue. As I was walking to the market, I heard a loud screeching sound, and I turned to see what had happened. To my horror, I saw two cars had collided, and people were rushing to help the victims. Without thinking, I ran towards the scene to see if I could be of any assistance.
When I reached the scene, I saw a man lying on the ground, bleeding profusely from his head. His car had hit another car, and the impact had caused him to be thrown out of the car. The other driver was also injured but not as severely as the first one. People were trying to help them, but they seemed to be in a state of shock.
The first thing I did was to call for an ambulance. I informed the emergency services about the accident and gave them the location. While waiting for the ambulance, I tried to help the injured people. I used my shirt to stop the bleeding of the man who was lying on the ground. I also tried to comfort him and reassure him that help was on the way.
The ambulance arrived after a few minutes, and the paramedics took over. They checked the victims and stabilised their condition before taking them to the hospital. I was relieved that they were receiving the medical attention they needed, but I couldn’t help but feel sad for them. Their lives had been changed in an instant, and they would have to deal with the consequences of the accident for a long time.
After the ambulance had left, the police arrived to investigate the accident. They interviewed the witnesses and took pictures of the scene. It was a long process, and it took a few hours to clear the area. The road was blocked, and traffic was diverted to other routes.
As I walked back home, I couldn’t help but think about the accident. It made me realise how fragile life is and how important it is to be careful on the road. A road accident can happen to anyone, and it can have far-reaching consequences. It is crucial to follow traffic rules, wear seat belts, and avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. We should also be patient and avoid aggressive driving, which can lead to accidents.
In conclusion, a road accident is a tragic event that can have devastating consequences. We should do everything we can to avoid them, and if we witness one, we should try to help in any way we can. We should also learn from them and be more careful on the road to prevent such accidents from happening in the future.
A picnic party is one of the most enjoyable and pleasurable events. It is a great way to spend quality time with friends, family, and colleagues in an outdoor setting.
Last summer, my friends and I decided to plan a picnic party to celebrate the end of the academic year. We chose a beautiful park, which was known for its lush greenery and scenic views. We all contributed to the preparation of the picnic, bringing food, drinks, and other essentials such as picnic blankets, chairs, and tables.
As soon as we arrived at the park, we spread out the blankets and began to lay out the delicious food we had brought along. There was a wide array of dishes such as biryani, salads, chicken dishes, fruits, and desserts. We chatted and laughed as we enjoyed the food and the beautiful surroundings. The sunny weather, chirping birds, and fresh air made the experience even more enjoyable.
After we had eaten, we decided to play some games. We brought a carroms board, a football, and a volleyball, and we played all afternoon. It was great fun to see everyone participating and having a good time. We also took some group photos to capture the memorable moments of the day.
As the sun began to set, we packed our belongings and headed back home. We were all tired but happy and content with how the day had turned out. The picnic party had been a perfect way to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with each other.
In conclusion, a picnic party is a wonderful way to have fun and connect with people. It provides an opportunity to enjoy nature, eat delicious food, play games, and create unforgettable memories. It is an experience that everyone should try at least once in their lifetime.
Highlights of President Droupadi Murmu’s Visit to Gujarat from September 12-13, 2023Droupadi Murmu, President of India, was on a two-day visit to Gujarat from September 12 to 13, 2023. During her visit,
She inaugurated the Gujarat Assembly’s ‘National e-Vidhan Application’ (NeVA) project and addressed the members of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly at Gandhinagar.
She also virtually launched the Ayushman Bhav initiative of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) from the Raj Bhavan, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
On 12th September 2023, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the First Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights (GSFR) in an event held at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Convention Centre, National Agricultural Science Centre in New Delhi, Delhi. About Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare(MoA&FW): Union Minister– Narendra Singh Tomar (Constituency- Morena, Madhya Pradesh) Ministers of State(MoS)– Sushri Shobha Karandlaje; Kailash Choudhary
Highlights of Saudi Arabia’s PM HRH Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud visit to Indiai.From September 9-11, 2023, the His Royal Highness (HRH) Prince Mohammed bin Salmanbin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister (PM) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, paid a State visit to India on the invitation of Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi. This marks the Prince’s 2nd State visit to India, His Royal Highness earlier visited India on a State Visit in February 2019. ii.The overarching context of his visit was to strengthen bilateral relations and strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia. iii.Official talks were held between HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and PM Narendra Modi to enhance India-Saudi strategic relations and discussed current global and regional matters. iv.Both leaders chaired the first meeting of the India – Saudi Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) which was set up with the signing of an Agreement by both leaders during the PM Narendra Modi state visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in October 2019. v.The Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and the Saudi Ministry of Energy have signed a MoU to strengthen their energy partnership, supporting India’s transition to sustainable energy and global climate change mitigation efforts. About Saudi Arabia: Capital– Riyadh Currency– Saudi Riyal
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched Skill India Digital PlatformUnion Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry Skill Development and Entrepreneurship(MSDE) has launched the Skill India Digital (SID) platform.
SID is India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for skilling, education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
The digital platform includes both a website and a mobile Application that was developed by the National Skill Development Corporation(NSDC). It is available in multiple Indian languages.
About the Skill India Digital platform: i.Skill India digital platform offers a variety of industry-specific skill courses, career opportunities, and support for aspiring entrepreneurs.
It includes listings for courses from Google, Microsoft, Cisco, and the Skill Council for Green Jobs(SCGJ).
Presently, more than 264 skilling courses from 42,623 centers across India will be available on the platform.
ii.The platforms serve as the link between job-seekers and employers, enabling educational institutions to develop courses to industry demands.
The platform will accelerate skilled talent hiring, facilitating lifelong learning and career advancement.
iii.The platform aligns with the vision outlined in the G20 framework for developing DPI and the digital economy in order to promote digital skills and literacy. iv.The app will be linked with DigiLocker and Aadhaar to issue verifiable certificates of course completion and to generate digitally signed Curriculum Vitae (CVs) for job applicants and people taking courses.
It also provides Digital CVs of jobseekers through personalized QR Codes.
SID is linked to the Udyam portal for the registration of micro, small and medium enterprises.
It also linked with the eShram portal which was created to build a National Database of Unorganized Workers and the National Career Service which was a five-year project launched by the Government in 2015 for job-seekers.
It is also linked with the Aatmanirbhar Skilled Employee Employer Mapping (ASEEM) portal.
Additional info: During the launching event, several memorandum of understanding (MOUs) were exchanged with organizations to advance digital skilling, foster industry participation, and enhance learner engagement, including All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE),National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Infosys, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), RedHat, Wadhwani Foundation, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Future Skills Prime, SAP, Tech Mahindra Foundation.
MCA Extends Tenure of Company Law Committee by 1 YearThe Ministry of Corporate Affairs(MCA) has extended the tenure of the Company Law Committee by 1 year, until September 16, 2024. Company Law Committee: i.The Company Law Committee was set up in 2019 with a tenure of one year(2020), and its tenure was successively extended year after year. ii.The committee has been tasked with examining and recommending the government on different matters concerning the implementation of the Companies Act, 2013, and the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)Act, 2008. objectives:
To promote the Ease of Living in the country by providing ease of doing business to law-abiding corporates.
To Promote improved corporate compliance for all stakeholders.
To address emerging issues having an impact on the working of companies in India.
Committee Members: At Present, the Company Law Committee consists of 11-members under the chairmanship of the Dr Manoj Govil, Secretary, MCA. Additional Info: The Company Law Committee recently released its third report in March 2022. They had recommended various changes to the Companies Act, 2013 to recognise new concepts, expedite corporate processes, improve compliance requirements, and remove ambiguities from existing provisions About Ministry of Corporate Affairs: Union Minister – Nirmala Sitharaman (RajyaSabha Karnataka) Minister of State (MoS) – Rao Inderjit Singh (Lok Sabha Constituency – Gurugram, Haryana)
MHA Cancels FCRA Licence of Bal Raksha Bharat & 2 other NGOs Ministry of Home Affairs(MHA) has cancelled the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licence of Bal Raksha Bharat, Srinivas Malliah Memorial Theatre Crafts Museum and SELF EMPLOYED WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION (SEWA).
The licences were cancelled ahead of the deadline (30th September 2023) for FCRA licences renewable for Non-Governmental Organisations(NGOs).
i.Bal Raksha Bharat is the India unit of the United Kingdom(UK) Based NGO “Save The Children” which operates in around 16 states across India.
The audited report of the NGO revealed that it has received Rs 163 crore in its bank accounts and Rs 66.66 lakh worth of in-kind contributions for year 2021-2022.
ii.Srinivas Malliah Memorial Theatre Crafts Museum was established in memory of freedom fighter Ullal Srinivas Malliah to provide training in traditional handicrafts like puppet making, mask making, paper figures, bamboo crafts and others. Points to note: MHA grants FCRA licences to NGOs for 5 years and evaluates based on annual returns and foreign grants received for their intended purposes. Misuse or diversion of foreign funds by NGOs is a violation of the FCRA Act.
India Becomes 13th Country to Issue OIML Certificate India has been recognised as an authority to issue internationally accepted OIML(International Organization of Legal Metrology) pattern approval certificates for selling weights & measures anywhere in the world. With this India becomes the 13th country in the world that can issue OIML certificates.
Department of Consumer Affairs under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs will now issue the OIML certificates.
OIML Pattern Approval certificate is mandatory to sell a weight or measure in the International market.
Other countries that can issue OIML Certificates are Australia, Switzerland, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, France, United Kingdom(UK), Japan, Netherlands, Sweden and Slovakia. About International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML French: OrganisationInternationale de MétrologieLégale): OIML is an international standard-setting body. Established in 1955. Headquarters– Paris, France Members: 63 Member States & 64 Corresponding Members (India has been a member of the OIML since 1956)
Yes Bank Partners with Juspay to Launch HyperUPI, NPCI’s UPI-based Plug-in ServiceYes Bank partnered with Juspay, India’s leading payments company, to launch HyperUPI, a plug-in Software Development Toolkit (SDK) developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) that empowers in-app Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments for merchant apps.
With this, the merchants can now offer customers a hassle-free one-click UPI experience. This will also allow customers to undertake UPI-based transactions within the merchant app.
This plug-in (SDK) is built on one of the most reliable UPI-on-cloud stacks in India, which also supports UPI payments for several consumer and merchant apps.
Yes Bank and BriskPe Partnered to Enable Cross-border Payments for MSMEs by BriskPe A2A Solution GoBrisk Technologies Pvt Ltd. (BriskPe), a Mumbai (Maharashtra) headquartered payments fintech company, and Yes Bank partnered to introduce BriskPe Account-to-Account (A2A), a cutting-edge suite of solutions designed to empower exporters and importers.
This collaboration represents a significant milestone in the world of cross-border payments, benefiting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the manufacturing and services sectors.
About Yes Bank Limited: Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer– Prashant Kumar Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra Established in– 2004
NPCI Launches India’s First Contactless Payment Wearable “OTG Ring”National Payment Corporation of India(NPCI) has launched a RuPay ON-THE-GO(OTG)ring named as 7 Ring,the first contactless payment wearable ring which was made in India.
The ring was unveiled in Global Fintech Fest, 2023 (GFF 2023) which was held during 5th to 7th September 2023 in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
7 Ring is designed, assembled, manufactured and patented in India.
The ring was made in collaboration with 7 (Sevenring Innovations Private Limited) and LivQuik Technology(India) Private Limited.
Eligibility: Any Indian resident above 18 years of age with an active Unified Payments Interface (UPI) address can buy the ring (provided they satisfy any one of the invite-only criteria). About 7 Ring: i.7 Ring is a sleek, wearable ring that is made from a very strong and scratch-resistant material called zirconia ceramic(ZrO2) which is also used in aerospace applications ii.The ring is Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) compliant, as neither its body nor any of its electronic components contain any hazardous substances. iii. The National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) customers can use the ‘OTG Ring’ for the transactions. Working: i.The ring allows to make payment by just placing the fist on a Point of Sale (POS) device ii.7 Ring links to a digital prepaid wallet not linked to a Bank Account
The wallet can be topped-up and payments can be made from it.
iii.The device also provides a comprehensive Passbook feature to keep track of the transactions. iv.7 Ring only works when it is placed parallelly within 4 cm range of a contactless reader. Features: i.7 Ring doesn’t require a smartphone application or an One-time password(OTP) / PIN for making payments below Rs 5,000 in India.
Also the ring doesn’t require pairing with a smartphone, instead it is linked to a digital prepaid wallet in the cloud.
ii.7 Ring is a passive wearable that draws power from the POS machine, so has no battery iii.7 Ring works on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, is EMVco certified, and contains the same security standards which are used in payment instruments worldwide by all leading networks. Transaction Criteria: There are two limit criteria based on Know Your Customer (KYC). i.Monthly transaction limit of Rs 10,000 – registered as a Minimum KYC(During ring activation) ii.Monthly transaction limit of Rs 2 Lakhs – Full KYC
IndusInd Bank launched ‘Virtual Commercial Credit Card’ in Collaboration with Visa and JuspayIndusInd Bank in partnership with Visa andJuspaylaunched a “virtual commercial card” with additional layers of security to give the cardholders a complete control over cross-border transactions for corporates and travel agents. The card is built on the Visa Payables Automation platform.
The card benefits the customers who make multiple bookings in different foreign-denominated currencies.
The card offers a high degree of control, reduced complexity and complete transparency.
Features of the card: i.The cardholders can generate virtual cards and customise its credentials such as Card Number, Card Verification Value (CVV) code and expiry dates.
The card can also be customised with transaction-specific limits.
This feature makes the parent card out of the process, so that it will be safe.
ii.The card complies withtokenisation-cum-Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA) regulation & follows Maker and Checker workflow. iii.The card allows for multiple user access. iv.This card recognises the evolving needs of customers by redefining domestic and cross-border transactions of the customers. Additional Info: Tokenisation-cum-AFA regulation: Tokenization is a backend process of replacing Credit/ Debit/ Prepaid Card details with a unique set of characters or a ‘token’.
AFA is a security measure that requires customers to provide more than one piece of evidence to verify their identity. Examples: One-time passwords (OTPs), Security questions and Biometric authentication.
About IndusInd Bank Limited(Ltd): Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Sumant Kathpalia Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra Established in – 1994 Tagline – We Make You Feel Richer About Visa: Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Ryan McInerney Headquarters- California, United States of America(USA) Established – 1976 About Juspay: Founder – Vimal Kumar Headquarters – Bangalore, Karnataka Established in – 2012
Fitch Retains India’s Growth Forecast at 6.3% for FY24: Global Economic Outlook Sept 2023Fitch Ratings in its special report titled Global Economic Outlook – September 2023 retained India’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP)’s growth forecast for the current fiscal year(FY 2023-24) at 6.3% and projected growth rate of 6.5% for FY 2024-2025.
Earlier in June 2023, the rating agency had revised its forecast to 6.3% from the 6%.
Inspite of tight monetary policy and poor export, the economy is striving to grow.
Quarterly analysis: The Indian economy grew at 7.8% in the first quarter(Q1 – April to June) in FY 2023-24.
According to the report, the high-frequency indicators suggest that the growth in July-September will be moderate due to low exports and credit growth.
RBI’ consumer confidence survey (CCS): i.Reserve Bank of India(RBI) in its bi-monthly consumer confidence survey (CCS) (July 2023) pointed out that consumers are becoming a little more pessimistic on income and employment prospects. ii.Fitch expects that the RBI’s benchmark interest rate will stay at 6.5% for 2023. Impact of Inflation: i.The global economy is slowing down, and India will be affected by this. The RBI has raised interest rates (by 250 Basis Point)to control inflation.
Though the increase in inflation is temporary, (particularly rise in food price), this will reduce the purchasing power of the household.
ii.Annual headline inflation was 6.8% in August after 7.4% in July and 4.9% in June. Additional info: The threat of El Niño makes the inflation exceed the forecasts. Fitch expects 2023-end retail or CPI inflation at 5.5%, higher than our previous forecast of 5%.
Mastercard India Appoints Former SBI Chief Rajnish Kumar as Non-Executive ChairmanRajnish Kumar, former chairman of the State Bank of India(SBI) has been appointed as the Non-Executive Chairman of Mastercard India.
Rajnish Kumar will guide Mastercard’s South Asia executive leadership team, led by Gautam Aggarwal, Division President for South Asia and Country Corporate Officer, India.
He is currently serving as the chairman of payments startup BharatPe.
About Rajnish Kumar: i.Rajnish Kumar served as the chairman of SBI from 2017 to 2020.
He is also widely credited for spearheading the SBI YONO platform.
He served at SBI and its subsidiaries across India, the United Kingdom and Canada in various leadership roles.
ii.He serves on the boards of various organisations and corporations, including HSBC Asia Pacific, Larsen & Toubro(L&T), and Brookfield Property Management. iii.He also served as Director on the boards of various organizations including Export- Import Bank of India(EXIM), Institute of Banking Personnel Selection(IBPS), National Institute of Bank Management, Pune, Indian Banks’ Association, Khadi & Village Industries Commission, Indian Institute of Banking & Finance. iv.Book – Rajnish Kumar Authored a book ‘The Custodian of Trust: A Banker’s Memoir’ published by Penguin Viking in 2021. About Master Card: Mastercard is a payment and technology company, which deals with clearing, authorization, and settlement of payment transactions. Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Michael Miebach Headquarters – New York, United States of America(USA) Established – 1966
Moldova’s 1st President MirceaSnegur Passed Away Mircea Snegur who served as the first President of the independent Moldova has passed away. He was born on 17th January 1940 in the village of Trifanesti, in Florești District, Moldova.
He became the President of the Moldovan Soviet Socialist Republic in 1990 following the approval from the Moldovan Supreme Council.
He led the Republic of Moldova to its proclamation of independence on 27 August 1991.
Following the independence, in 1992, Snegur and then Russian President Boris Yeltsin signed an agreement to stop a conflict over Moldova’s breakaway Transdniester (Transnistria) region.
International Day of Democracy 2023- September 15The United Nations (UN) International Day of Democracy is annually observed across the globe on 15th September to highlight the significance of democracy and to create awareness among the people about democratic rights.
The day also offers a platform to review the the state of democracy in the world.
The theme of International Day of Democracy 2023 observed on 15th September 2023 is “Empowering the next generation.”
The 2023 theme focus on the role of the children and young people in advancing democracy and ensuring that their voices are included in the decisions that have a profound impact on their world.
Background: i.On 8th November 2007, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution A/RES/62/7 and proclaimed the 15th September of every year as the International Day of Democracy. ii.The first International Day of Democracy was observed on 15 September 2008. About Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU): President and Head of Executive Committee– Duarte Pacheco Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland Established in– 1889
National Engineer’s Day 2023- September 15National Engineer’s Day is annually observed across India on 15th September to commemorate the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Sir MokshagundamVisvesvaraya (15 September 1861), one of the greatest Engineers in India, who is known as India’s first civil Engineer.
This day also honours engineers for their vital role in shaping society and recognizes the contributions made by engineers to India’s development through innovation and technology.
The theme of National Engineer’s Day 2023 observed on 15th September 2023 is, ‘Engineering for a Sustainable Future,’ which highlights engineers’ role in addressing global challenges. Background: i.In 1968, the Government of India (GoI) declared the birth anniversary of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, as National Engineers’ Day. ii.Since then, National Engineers’ Day has been celebrated in India on September 15th each year as a tribute to his legacy and acknowledges the contributions made by engineers to India’s growth and development. About Institution of Engineers India (IEI): IEI was incorporated under the Royal Charter on 9th September 1935 by the then His Majesty King George V. After Independence(1947), IEI became a “Body Corporate” protected under Article 372 of the Constitution of India and is administered by a National Council. President– Er. Shivanand Roy Headquarters– Kolkata, West Bengal Established in– 1920
Cabinet Approval on September 13, 2023The Union cabinet chaired by Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi has approved the following proposals on 13th September 2023. i.Resolution on the success of the New Delhi Group20 (G20) Summit ii.The Union Cabinet approved the extension of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) 2.0 for release of 75 lakh LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) connections over 3 years from Financial Year 2023-24 to 2025-26. iii.Approved the eCourts Project Phase III as a Central Sector Scheme spanning 4 years (starting from 2023 onwards) with financial outlay of Rs.7210 crore. iv.Approval of MoUs between India and 3 other Countries
MoU between India and Armenia, India and Antigua & Barbuda, India and Sierra Leone
v.Approval of M/s Berhyanda Limited of Cyprus acquisition of 76.1% equity shares from Suven Pharmaceuticals Limited for about Rs.9589 crores. About Armenia: President – Vahagn Khachaturyan Capital – Yerevan Currency – Armenian Dram About Antigua & Barbuda Prime Minister –Gaston Browne Capital – Saint John’s Currency – East Caribbean Dollar About Sierra Leone President – Julius Maada Bio Capital – Freetown Currency – Sierra Leonean Leone
NITI Aayog Completes Special Campaign 2.0 for Disposal of Pending Matters and Swachhta The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) has successfully completed its Special Campaign 2.0, which aims to resolve pending matters and promote cleanliness (Swachhta) within government offices.
The Special Campaign 2.0, initiated by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, was undertaken from November 2022 to August 2023.
About 95% of public grievances and appeals were successfully addressed during the campaign period.
Special Campaign 2.0 is a step towards transparent, efficient governance and cleanliness in government institutions.
The main goal of Special Campaign 2.0 was to quickly and effectively resolve public complaints, as well as references from Members of Parliament, State Governments, and other government agencies. Note: As a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of“A Clean India” DARPG initially launched campaign for disposal of pending matters from 2nd to 31st October 2021. With the success of the campaign, DARPG decided to continue the campaign in 2022 and further in 2023.
IIT Kanpur Partners with ICICI Bank to Foster Startup EcosystemThe Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh(UP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ICICI Bank Limited to support the startup ecosystem at provide the Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) IIT Kanpur.
The partnership offers a comprehensive support system to early-stage ventures.
Features of the MoU: i.Under this MoU, IIT Kanpur and ICICI Bank will facilitate joint efforts to equip startups and innovators at the SIIC with essential tools and knowledge. ii.The MoU will focus on improving the understanding of foreign trade policies among incubatees and conducting workshops and seminars to help them engage in international markets. iii.As a part of the partnership, IIT Kanpur and ICICI bank will jointly hosst events for startups, to cutivate a broader environment of innovation and entrepreneurship that extends beyond financial services. Role of ICICI bank: i.ICICI Bank helps innovators, incubatees, and students at IIT Kanpur with pre- and post-transaction compliance while engaging with Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC) support.
This includes verifying and submitting regulatory documents through digital means.
ii.This simplifies the process and enhances accessibility to financial resources for emerging entrepreneurs. ICICI Bank Got RBI Approval to make I-Process as its Wholly-Owned Subsidiary The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved ICICI Bank Limited to convert I-Process Services (India) Private Limited (I-Process) into a wholly-owned subsidiary, subject to specific conditions.
ICICI Bank’s Board members already approved the proposal in February 2023.
The estimate cost of conversion is Rs 15.40 crores (subjected to finalisation)
ICICI Bank currently holds 19% stake in I-Process.
About I-Process Services (India) Private Limited (I-Process): I-Process Services (India) Private Ltd. is a leading company in financial service recruitment.It provides staffing solutions services for some of India’s top financial institutions. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Prashant Mohta Headquarters – Gurugram, Haryana Established in – 2005 About ICICI Bank Limited: Managing Director(MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Sandeep Bakhshi Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra Established in – 1994 Tagline – Hum Hai Na Khayal Apka
Max Life Launched Life Insurance & Health Combined Insurance Policy Named ‘SEWA’Max Life Insurance Company Limited has launched a new insurance plan “Max LifeSecure Earnings & Wellness Advantage (SEWA) Plan” that combines the benefits of health and life insurance under a single plan. It allows the insured to fulfill the healthcare needs of their family while simultaneously ensuring a financial backup for future expenses.
It integrates health, protection, savings, and wellness benefits for the insured and offers a comprehensive plan that covers hospitalisation, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) charges, etc. along with life cover.
SEWA Plan is available in 2 variants namely: EliteVariant and LiteVariant.
Some Features of SEWA Plan: i.The SEWA plan offers guaranteed returns on premiums. There is also partial withdrawal allowed through a traditional guaranteed plan. The guaranteed returns are payable as a lump sum at maturity. ii.The policy also offers an in-built health coverage over and above the existing health insurance plan. iii.It provides an option to take loans against policy to help customers in case of financial emergencies, but only when the policy has acquired a surrender value, which can be a maximum of 75% of the surrender value. iv.The policy also provides a discount of 5% on first-year premiums to female and transgender customers. Some Benefits of SEWA: i.The policy offers a death benefit to the nominee in case of death of the insured. ii.The customers are entitled to loyalty boosters on each premium payment during the premium paying term. iii.A savings booster benefit is added to the accrued policy benefit at the end of each month post-completion of the premium paying term.
This benefit applies only to the Elite variant of the plan.
Wellness App: i.Max Life Insurance also offers customers with an interactive holistic wellness app named ‘Max Fit‘. ii.The Max Fit app offers personalised health and wellness solutions promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being through 24*7 live support for addressing all health concerns. iii.The app encourages the customers to lead a disciplined and healthier lifestyle, by providing enhanced maturity benefits. About Max Life Insurance Company Limited: Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer– Prashant Tripathy Headquarters– Gurugram, Haryana Established in– 2000 Commenced Operations– 2001
RBI Issues Guidelines on Responsible Lending Conduct; Revises Banks’ Investment Portfolio Norms, w.e.f April 1, 2024i.On September 13, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued guidelines on Responsible Lending Conduct which directs Regulated Entities (REs) to release all original movable or immovable property documents, and remove charges registered with any registry within 30 days of full repayment or settlement of personal loans by borrowers. ii.If REs delay property document release or fail to file charge satisfaction forms after 30 days post-loan settlement, they must explain the reasons to the borrower. If the delay is REs’ fault, they must compensate the borrower at Rs 5,000/day. iii.RBI also revised its guidelines on categorizing the investments by banks, to align them with global standards by issuing RBI (Classification, Valuation and Operation of Investment Portfolio of Commercial Banks) Directions, 2023 which will be effective from April 1, 2024. iv.RBI introduced a new category of investment, Fair Value Through Profit and Loss (FVTPL) account. v.As per the revised norms, banks will have to classify their entire investment portfolio under three categories viz. Held-to-Maturity (HTM), Available for Sale (AFS) and FVTPL. 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
SIDBI partners with Tata Power to Finance Solar Rooftop Initiatives for MSMEsA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Tata Power Solar Systems Limited (TPSSL), and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to offer an easy financing option for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
TPSSL is the wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL) while TPREL is a subsidiary of Tata Power.
Signatories: Dr. Praveer Sinha, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Managing Director (MD), Tata Power; and SivasubramanianRamann, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD), SIDBI signed in the presence of Minister of State (MoS) of Finance, Dr. BhagwatKarad, at the Global SME Finance Forum 2023 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Key Points: i.TPSSL and SIDBI will encourage solar energy adoption among MSMEs by offering customized financing solutions through SIDBI’s 4E (End to End Energy Efficiency) Scheme.
The initiative aims to reduce CO2 footprints and contribute to India’s clean energy goals.
ii.MSMEs that are willing to opt for Rooftop Solar PV Plant or associated services from Tata Power or its authorised Channel Partners across India will be financially supported by SIDBI .
Notably, SIDBI has set up a mission solar to provide financing to 2,000 MSMEs for solar rooftops.
iii.During the forum, TPSSL and SIDBI launched ‘The Big Solar Fest’ offering zero processing fees during the festival season to promote solar adoption among MSMEs, enhancing sustainability. Background: The MoU signed was the outcome of success and positive feedback received from the collateral-free solar financing initiative introduced by TPSSL and SIDBI in 2021.
Indian Fashion Designer honoured with France’s Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des LettresThe Government of France has awarded the “Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) to the Indian Fashion Designer Rahul Mishra. The award recogniseshis achievements in the field of arts as a designer, and his commitment to promote Indian crafts and know-how internationally.
The award also honours his contribution to the cultural relationship and cooperation between France and India.
On 12th September 2023, Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, presented the insignia of the award to Rahul Mishra at a special ceremony at the Residence of France, New Delhi, Delhi.
About Rahul Mishra: i.Rahul Mishra, hailing from Uttara Pradesh(UP), is known for combining slow fashion with traditional Indian crafts. ii.He made his debut in 2006 at the Lakme Fashion Week with a collection using cotton handloom from Kerala. Later in 2014, he made his global debut with his prêt-à-porter collection at Paris Fashion Week in 2014. iii.In 2009, He became the first non-European designer to win the prestigious scholarship at the Istituto Marangoni, Milan, Italy. Awards & Achievements: i.He was won the International Woolmark Prize 2013/14 for his “Lotus Effect” collection. He was the first Indian to win the award.
His work from this collection was featured in the Victoria & Albert Museum from 2015 to 2016.
ii.In 2020, he became the first Indian to showcase his work at the Paris Haute Couture Week. He was invited as a guest by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. iii.He was the first Indian designer to feature on online rental boutique, Rent the Runway. Ordre des Arts et des Lettres: i.It is an Order of France established by the Minister of Culture in 1957 and confirmed as part of L’ordre National du Mérite by president Charles de Gaulle in 1963. ii.It is the most significant arts-specific honour conferred by the Government of France that honours personalities who have made significant contribution to the music field, arts, literature and the cultural and artistic legacy of Indo-France relations. iii.The award is given at three levels: Commandeur (Commander), Officier(Officer), Chevalier (Knight).
KKR Set to Invest Rs 2069.50 Crore in Reliance Retail The global investment firm KKR & Co. Inc., also known as Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., is set to invest Rs 2,069.50 crore into Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL) to raise its total equity stake to 1.42% from 1.17% on a fully diluted basis. This investment will translate into an additional equity stake of 0.25% in RRVL on a fully diluted basis.
The investment is at a pre-money equity value of Rs 8.361 lakh crore (around USD 100 billion).
The deal makes RRVL one of the top four companies by equity value in India.
RRVL is the retail arm and a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited(RIL). KKR had earlier invested Rs 5,550 crore in RRVL in 2020.
In September 2023, RIL received Rs 8278 crore from Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) for around 1% stake in RRVL.
WHO Launches 2 New Resources Designed to Strengthen Suicide Prevention EffortsOn 12th September 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched 2 resources designed to strengthen suicide prevention efforts. The 2 resources are
4th version of Preventing Suicide: a resource for media professionals (2023 update).
The resources provide important guidance on two areas that are critical to suicide prevention efforts namely Responsible reporting of suicide by the media and Decriminalization of suicide and suicide attempts. About World Health Organisation (WHO) Director General– Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland Established on– 7 April 1948
AWS Signed MoU with ISRO & IN-SPACe to Support Space-tech Innovations through Cloud ComputingAmazon Web Services (AWS) India Private Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) to support space-tech innovations through cloud computing.
Cloud computing provides speedy handling of enormous numbers of raw space data as well as the execution of Artificial intelligence (AI), Machine learning (ML) and analytics workloads to achieve meaningful results at a low cost.
About the Partnership: i.The partnership will support space startups, research institutes, and students access to cutting edge cloud technologies that accelerate the development of new solutions in the space sector. ii.They will also work together on a new initiative to utilise AWS education programmes to train students and educators in cloud computing, AI, ML, analytics, and security. iii.This partnership follows the Government of India’s Indian Space Policy 2023.
The policy provides a strategic roadmap for the growth and development of India’s space program and ambitions.
A Startup Support Initiative: i.Through the AWS Activate program, AWS will provide eligible space startups tools, resources, and expert technical support at no cost.
This will enable startups to build innovative solutions and commercialise them faster.
ii.Startups will also benefit from access to AWS and its global experience of building aerospace and satellite solutions through the AWS Space Accelerator program. About the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe): IN-SPACe was established under the Department of Space (DOS) as a single window agency for all space sector activities of private entities. Chairman – Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka Headquarters – Ahmedabad, Gujarat Established – 2020
SAFF U16 Championship 2023: India Won the Title Defeating Bangladesh Indian Under 16 (U-16) men’s football team won the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-16 Championship 2023 title defeating Bangladesh (2-0) in the finals. The 2023 SAFF U16 Championship was held from 2nd to 10th September 2023 in Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan.
2023 SAFF U16 Championship is the 8th edition of theSAFF U-15/U-16/U-17 Championship, the annual international football competition contested by the national teams of SAFF members(India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan).
i.This marks the 5th title of India in the SAFF U-15/U-16/U-17 Championship.
With this India became the most sussessful team of the tournament with 5 titles (U15 title in 2017 & 2019; U16 title in 2013 and 2023 and U-17 title in 2022).
ii.Bharat Lairenjam scored a goal in the first half in the 8th minute, while Levis Zangminlun secured the winning goal for Indi in the second half in the 74th minute, leading to a victory for India. iii.Suraj Singh won the Best Goalkeeper award and Mohammed Arbash(MD Arbash) won Most Valuable Player (MVP) and also bagged the Highest Goal Scorer award with 3 goals. Note: SAFF formed in 1997, is an organization working to develop and make football more accessible for everyone within the South Asian football-playing countries. SAFF’s motto is ‘Unity in Strength’
N S Srinivasan, Traffic Expert & Founder Director of NATPAC,Passed Away Dr. NS. Srinivasan, a renowned highway and traffic expert, and Founder Director of the National Transportation Planning and Research Centre (NATPAC), passed away at the age of 89 at his residence in Chennai, Tamil Nadu(TN). He was born in Nallur, TN
He served as Head of the Traffic and Transportation Division of the Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi for 13 years from 1963 to 1976.
From 1976 to 1988, he served as the executive director of NATPAC. He also served as an Advisor to the Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB).
He served as a World Bank advisor to prepare a highway network plan for Yemen. He has prepared transportation plans for Delhi, Bengaluru (Karnataka), and other cities including the 9th Asian Games of Delhi & 8th World Tamil Conference at Thanjavur (TN).
He also served at Anna University (Chennai) as a visiting professor in Transportation Engineering from 1990 to 2002. After retirement, he started the Transport Advisory Forum (TAF).
He has been acknowledged as “the man who brought order to Delhi’s roads”, “Roving Organizer”, “Pioneer in Traffic Planning”, and “the Father of Traffic Engineering in India”.
Awards: He was honoured with several awards including the President of India’s Prize of the Institution of Engineers (India) for the year 1973-74. Note: NATPAC is an institution under the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) in Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)
Hindi Diwas 2023- September 12Hindi Diwas (Hindi Day) is annually observed across India on 14th September to commemorate the adoption or declaration of Hindi, written in the Devanagari script as one of the official languages of India.
This day is observed to celebrate and recognise the linguistic diversity of India, with a focus on the Hindi language’s significance in India’s identity.
Background: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister(PM) of Independent India proclaimed the 14th September of every year as the Hindi Diwas to commemorate the adoption of Hindi as official langaugae of India on 14th September 1949.
The first ever Hindi Diwas was observed on 14th September 1953.
About Ministry of Home Affairs(MHA): The Department of Official Language was set up in June 1975 as an independent Department of the MHA. Union Minister– Amit Shah (Constituency- Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat) Ministers of State– Nityanand Rai; Ajay Kumar Mishra; Nisith Pramanik
Odisha Govt Signed MoU with 6 Public Sector Banks to Provide Banking Services in Unbanked GPs of OdishaOn 13th September 2023, the Government of Odisha signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 6 Public Sector Banks(PSBs), to provide banking services in all unbanked Gram Panchayats (GPs) of Odisha through Customer Service Point-plus (CSP plus) banking outlets.
The 6 PSBs are: State Bank of India (SBI), Punjab National Bank (PNB), Union Bank of India (UBI), UCO Bank of India, Bank of India (BoI), and Bank of Baroda (BoB).
Odisha is the first state in India to adopt such an exemplary model for providing banking services to all GPs.
Key People: The MoU was signed in the presence of Anu Garg, Development Commissioner Cum Additional Chief Secretary Water Resources, Government of Odisha; Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary of Finance department, Government of Odisha. Banking Penetration in Odisha: i.Financial inclusion is a high-priority agenda of the Government. It continues to be a critical challenge since banking penetration in Odisha is quite low and not uniform across the districts.
Out of 6798 GPs, around 65% of GPs (4373 GPs) do not have brick-and-mortar branches.
ii.For increasing banking penetration and financial inclusion, brick-and-mortar branches are an integral component. iii.Since banking is an essential service for financial inclusion, every GP of Odisha needs to be provided with a brick-and-mortar branch for easy access to banking services and to strengthen the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Scheme for providing banking services to GPs: i.In August 2023, the Odisha cabinet approved a scheme under which brick-and-mortar infrastructure will be offered to banks to roll out their services in all 4,373 unbanked GPs through CSP-plus outlets with a budgetary support of Rs. 500 crore. ii.The scheme will be implemented in a phased manner to cover all unbanked GPs of Odisha within the current financial year 2023-24. iii.Odisha Govt will provide rent-free banking space for 5 years and bear one-time expenses for Fixed Costs and Recurring expenses for 3 years.
This is one of the landmark initiatives by any state government to transform financial inclusion and take it to the next level.
Benefits: i.People residing in all unbanked GPs of Odisha will have easy access to all kinds of banking services, free of cost. ii.Senior citizens, Differently-abled People, and Pregnant women will get doorstep banking services and avail of the DBT of the Odisha government in a timely manner. About Odisha: Chief Minister– Naveen Patnaik Governor– Ganeshi Lal Dance Forms– Ghumura Dance (Folk), Odissi (Classical)
Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria Launches “Sarpanch Samvad” Mobile App of QCI Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria launched the ‘Sarpanch Samvad’, a mobile app developed by the Quality Council of India (QCI) in Raj Bhavan, Guwahati, Assam.
The objective of this initiative is to provide comprehensive support to sarpanchs across India and encourage their development as leaders.
India G20 Summit, 9 September 2023 – 10 September 2023The two-day 18th G20 (Group of 20) Leaders’ Summit, under India’s presidency, happened in Bharat Mandapam International Exhibition and Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from September 9th to 10th, 2023. This is the first ever G20 Summit being hosted by India.
The meeting was held under the theme of “VasudhaivaKutumbakam” or “One Earth – One Family – One Future”. It is inspired from the Maha Upanishad, an old Sanskrit scripture.
The theme also spotlights LiFE(Lifestyle for Environment).
Key Attendees: The members of the G20 are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union.
G20 Invitees: The Nations invited by India included delegates from these countries: Bangladesh, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius, Oman, Singapore, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
G-20’s invited international organisations included UN (United Nations), IMF(International Monetary Fund), World Bank, WHO (World Health Organization), WTO (World Trade Organization), ILO(International Labour Organization), FSB (Financial Stability Board), OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development), AU (African Union), NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development) , ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), ADB (Asian Development Bank), ISA (International Seabed Authority), and CDRI (China Development Research Institute).
On September 9, 2023, at the G20 Summit held in New Delhi, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA), a collective effort aimed at reducing the world’s dependency on petrol and diesel fuels.
During the 18th G20 Summit, Indian PM Narendra Modi announced that the African Union has been included as a member of the G20, making it the 21st member.
NABARD Inks MoU with UNDP India to Boost Data-Driven Innovations in AgricultureOn September 12, 2023, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) signed a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on technical cooperation for the joint development of data-driven innovations in agriculture and food systems to support smallholder farmers. Aim: To promote sustainable agriculture, reducing vulnerability by sharing best practices and optimizing investments Signatories: It was signed by Chief General Manager of NABARD, SanjeevRohilla, and UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Isabelle Tschan. What will be done under the MoU? i.Under this MoU, NABARD and UNDP will share open-source data for product development, technology transfer, collective climate action, and agrarian policy support to enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. ii.UNDP will utilize its expertise in open innovations, data collaboratives, data science, and global knowledge to support NABARD’s goal of data-driven decision-making in agriculture investments. iii.UNDP and NABARD will analyze agricultural trends over time to optimize investment decisions in areas like watershed management, micro-irrigation, warehouse, and climate-related initiatives. iv.The partnership will also include enhancing and disseminating collaborative digital public goods like DiCRA (Data in Climate Resilient Agriculture). About DiCRA and how it will be useful in this partnership: Curated by UNDP and partner organizations, it provides intelligence on climate resilience for 50 million hectares of farmland across India. It identifies resilient and vulnerable farms by using data science and machine learning, crucial for India’s 80% of rural women employed in agriculture, who are highly vulnerable to climate change.
As a part of the partnership, NABARD will host and maintain the DiCRA platform and utilize its geospatial datasets for policy-making, research, and development activities with UNDP’s technical support.
About National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD): Chairman– Shaji K V Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra Established on 12 July 1982
MoLE Signs MoUs with Private Job Portals/Employersto Integrate with NCSPortalOn September 12, 2023, the Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE) signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various job portals, employers, and skill providers to integrate with its National Career Service (NCS) portal.
This collaboration allows private job portals to share their job openings on the NCS platform, expanding employment opportunities for registered jobseekers of NCS.
This partnership is set to benefit over 30 lakh eShram registered workers in the unorganized sector who have joined NCS.
Notes: i.The eShram portal is used for enrollment, registration, collection and identification of the required data of all the unorganised workers ii.NCS is a mission mode project launched in 2015 which is being implemented by the Directorate General of Employment, MoLE. It is a one-stop solution providing employment and career related services to the citizens of India. Aim of MoUs: To enhance employment opportunities and services for jobseekers on NCS portal Signatories: MoUs were signed by Amit Nirmal, Deputy Director General (Employment) on behalf of MoLE presence of Arti Ahuja, Secretary, MoLE; and Ramesh Krishnamurthi, Additional Secretary (Labour and Employment). Entities with which MoUs were Signed:
Other MoUs by MoLE: i.MoLE partnered with TCS iON to offer free online soft skills employability training in English and Hindi, enhancing jobseekers’ employability and workforce quality.
TCS iON is a strategic unit of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) focused on Manufacturing Industries (SMB), Educational Institutions and Examination Boards.
ii.MoLE also signed an MoU withHireMeeto provide free aptitude tests, benefiting both jobseekers and employers by streamlining candidate selection.
12th India-UK EFD: Announced the launch of UK-India Infrastructure Financing BridgeIndia and the United Kingdom (UK) announced the launch of the UK-India Infrastructure Financing Bridge (UKIIFB) during the 12th Round of Ministerial India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD) held in New Delhi, Delhi on 11th September 2023, to secure long-term investment for vital infrastructure sectors in India.
UKIIFB is a collaborative initiative signifies the continuing commitment of both nations to work in close cooperation toward unlocking substantial infrastructure investment opportunities in India.
UKIIFB initiative also provide expertise and investment to support the National Infrastructure Pipeline of India.
About the United Kingdom (UK): Capital– London Prime Minister– Rishi Sunak Currency– Pound Sterling, or Great British Pound (GBP)
Rajnath Singh Inaugurates 90 Infrastructure Projects Worth Over Rs 2900 Crore By BROUnion Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defense inaugurated 90 infrastructure projects constructed by Border Road Organisation (BRO) at a ceremony organised by the BRO at Devak Bridge on Bishnah-Kaulpur-Phulpur Road in Jammu and Kashmir.
The projects have been constructed in 11 border States and Union Territories of India.
The BRO completed the construction of these projects with Rs 2941 crores in less time frame using state-of-the-art technology.
Note: The state-of-the-art 422.9 meter long Class 70 RCC Devak bridge enhances the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces. Infrastructure Projects and Locations: i.The infrastructure projects include Nechiphu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh; two airfields in West Bengal, two helipads, 22 roads and 63 bridges. ii.Among these 90 projects Arunachal Pradesh hosts 36 of them, Ladakh is home to 26, Jammu & Kashmir accommodates 11, Mizoram sees five, Himachal Pradesh has three
Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal each have two.
There is one project in Nagaland, one in Rajasthan, and one in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Nechiphu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh: The tunnel is of 500-metre long located on Balipara-Charduar-Tawang Road in Arunachal Pradesh.
The all-weather connectivity tunnel will be used by Armed Forces deployed and the tourists to visit Tawang Region of Arunachal Pradesh.
Bagdogra and Barrackpore Airfields: The Bagdogra and Barrackpore Airfields in West Bengal were renovated to bolster the preparedness of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and to facilitate commercial flight operations in the region. Upcoming Projects: i.Nyoma Airfield: The foundation stone was also laid for Nyoma Airfield in Eastern Ladakh to be developed at a cost of Rs 200 crore. ii.Shinkun La Tunnel: the world’s highest tunnel at an altitude of 15,855 feet. to connect Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal pradesh to the Zaskar Valley in Ladakh.
Govt Inaugurated VSK; Laid foundation stone for 141 PM SHRI Schools & NSCBAV in UttarakhandUnion Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education(MoE) and Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) along with Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister (CM) of Uttarakhand, inaugurated the Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
They also laid the Foundation Stone of 141 Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) Schools and 40 bed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Awasiya Vidyalaya (NSCBAV) (residential school) in Deharadun Uttarakhand.
PM SHRI Schools will serve as the models for the existing schools to achieve excellence and the NSCBAV will provide quality education to underprivileged children.
VidhyaSamiksha Kendra (VSK) in Uttarakhand: i.VSK is a technology-based and modern data-driven model that aims to enhance the learning outcomes of Uttarakhand’s 23.50 lakh school students of Uttarakhand.
The Education Department of the Government of Gujarat set up India’s first VSK in 2019 as a prototype, aimed at leveraging data and technology to bring a transformation in learning outcomes.
ii.Since the introduction of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), VSK has expanded its reach across India, ensuring a standardised and effective approach to education.
NEP 2020 is a philosophical document for creating a knowledge-based economy in the 21st century.
i.Government of India (GoI) has sanctioned more than Rs 79 crore for this financial year for 142 PM-Shri schools and 3 Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose residential hostels in the Uttarakhand. ii.More than Rs 18 crore has already been sanctioned by the Union government for the 1st phase. Other Launches & Highlights: i.During the event, the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami also launched the Chief Minister Higher Education Meritorious Scholarship Scheme and Higher Education Research Incentive Scheme for Uttarakhand. ii.The Research Scholarship aligns with the National Research Foundation in which teachers of Uttarakhand will be receiving grants for their research projects.
Under this scheme, the Uttarakhand government will provide a grant of Rs. 15-18 lakhs to those who want to go ahead with research.
iii.The Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also attended the Amrit Kaal Dialogue at the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies at Bidholi, Uttarakhand.
IICA & UNICEF jointly organize workshop on Business Responsibility and Sustainability ReportingOn September 12, 2023, the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) organised a workshop on Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) in collaboration withUNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) and National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) at the NSE premises in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
It was inaugurated by Dr. Harish Ahuja, SVP (Senior Vice President) & Head PSD – Power & Carbon Markets, Investor Awareness, NSE.
The workshop was part of the ongoing collaboration between IICA and UNICEF to promote responsible business conduct among corporates and relevant stakeholders in India.
Aim: The workshop aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the BRSR framework. What is BRSR framework? It is based on the 9 principles of the National Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC). It mandates the top 1000 listed companies to report their ESG performance, showcasing their dedication to responsible business conduct. Participants: The workshop was attended by more than 50 Sustainability, CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility), ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) and BHR (Business Human Rights) professionals from key corporate entities. Key Points: i.Workshop topics included CSR and ESG for building responsible brands, effective BRSR disclosures, digital tools, IT portal/software for BRSR, and the application of family-friendly policies in business. ii.Participants enhanced their BRSR knowledge and implementation skills through interactive learning and peer networking. iii.Upcoming BRSR workshops are scheduled in different Indian cities, including Indore, Madhya Pradesh (MP) (20 Sept.), Delhi (26 Sept.), and Bengaluru, Karnataka (29 Sept.). Points to note: IICA:It was established as a think-tank of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) which provides necessary support through policy advocacy, research and capacity building programmes to Government, Corporates, and other relevant stakeholders. SoBE: School of Business Environment (SoBE), a school within IICA, has the mandate to work in the domains of CSR, ESG and BHR to strengthen the Responsible Business ecosystem. About Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA): IICA was registered as a society on September 12, 2008 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. Director General & CEO– Praveen Kumar Headquarters– Gurugram, Haryana
MNRE Extends Waiver of DCR for Solar Cells Under Comp C of PM KUSUM till March 2024The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has extended the relaxation for the provision of requirement of indigenous domestic content requirement (DCR) under Component C of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Surakshaevam Utthaan Mahabhiyan Yojana (PM-KUSUM Scheme) till 31st March 2024.
The DCR requirement for solar cells was waived off for projects awarded on or before June 20, 2023.
This is a continuation of the memorandum issued by MNRE in August 2022, which extended the DCR waiver until 20th June 2023. This decision comes after receiving industry representations on the matter.
About PM KUSUM Scheme: i.Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Surakshaevam Utthaan Mahabhiyan Yojana (PM-KUSUM Scheme) was launched in March 2019 by the MNRE, to subsidize farmers to install solar irrigation pumps for cultivation. ii.It has 3 components:
Component A: 10,000 (Mega Watt) MW of solar capacity through installation of small Solar Power Plants of individual plants of capacity upto 2 MW.
Component B: Installation of 20 lakh standalone Solar Powered Agriculture Pumps.
Component C: Solarisation of 15 Lakh Grid-connected Agriculture Pumps.
Note: Component C is also known as Feeder Level Solarization(FLS). It envisages solarization of 10 Lakh grid connected agricultural pumps with unique pump capacity of upto 7.5 Horse Power (HP). Key Points: i.DCR Rule, which mandates the use of local solar cells and modules, is crucial for PM-KUSUM’s implementation. ii.The extension aims to support the scheme’s efforts to decarbonize agriculture by promoting solar energy use in various forms. iii.As of February 28, 2023, the scheme has installed 89.45 MW of solar capacity under Component A and approximately 2.09 lakh pumps have been installed or solarized under Components B and C, equivalent to about 1,140 MW of solar capacity.
Cashfree Payments Partners With NPCI To Launch Customer On-Boarding FeatureCashfree Payments India Private Limited in collaboration with National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) launched “AutoPay on QR(Quick Response)”, a feature enabling customer onboarding through a 2-step process.
The 2 step process involves scanning the QR code and approving an e-mandate through Unified Payments Interface (UPI) apps.
Working: i.Subscription-based businesses should circulate their subscription QR codes through various marketing channels like online ads, newspapers, websites, TV, and product packaging. ii.This will eliminate the necessity to download an app or register on the website which is time consuming and poor onboarding experience. Additional Info: i.Cashfree Payments works with banks to build the core payments and banking infrastructure that powers the company’s products. ii.It is also integrated with major platforms such as Shopify, Wix, PayPal, Amazon Pay, Paytm, and Google Pay. About Cashfree Payments India Private Limited: Cashfree Payments is a payments and banking technology company that enables businesses in India to collect payments online and make payouts. Chief Executive Officer(CEO)- Akash Sinha Headquarters- Bengaluru, Karnataka Established in- 2015 About National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI): NPCI was launched in 2008 by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. Chief Executive Officer(CEO)- Dilip Asbe Headquarters- Mumbai, Maharashtra
MastercardAnd Invest India Along With Tourism Ministry Launched Enhanced Priceless.com‘Mastercard’ with the support from the Ministry of Tourism and Invest India has launched Priceless.com to explore India’s history and culture (using latest travel trends).
Priceless.com will support the “DekhoApnaDesh“ initiative of the Tourism Ministry.
About Priceless.com: i.priceless.com is an extension of Mastercard’s global priceless platform that offers exclusive experiences and privileges to Mastercard cardholders around the world. ii.It paves a way for local and international travellers to experience the country’s diverse heritage. iii.The program enables Mastercard cardholders to gain exclusive access to culture-rich, gastronomical, and wellness luxe experiences in New Delhi(Delhi), Agra(Uttar Pradesh), Jodhpur(Rajasthan), Dehradun (Uttarakhand), Pune(Maharashtra), etc.
The program offers many experiences including a visit to Qutub Minar in New Delhi and to the streets Old Agra.
Demand for travel: According to the Mastercard Economics Institute’s Travel Industry Trends 2023, spending on experiences at travel destinations has increased by 65% since March 2019, driven by pent-up demand for travel.
Priceless.com is available exclusively to Mastercard cardholders which aims to create memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for its cardholders.
DekhoApnaDesh initiative: Introduced in Budget 2023, the scheme aims to promote domestic tourism and encourage people to explore the rich cultural heritage and diversity of India.
The scheme is intended to offer financial assistant to tourists travelling to different parts of India.
About Mastercard: President – Ari Sarker( Asia Pacific) Headquarters – NewYork, United States of America(USA) Established in – 1966
About Invest India: Invest India is the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India, set up as a non-profit venture under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Nivruti Rai Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi Established in – 2009 About Ministry of Tourism: Union Minister – G. Kishan Reddy (Constituency: Secunderabad, Telangana) Minister of State(MoS) – Ajay Bhatt (Constituency: Nainital – Udhamsingh Nagar, Uttarakhand) ; Shripad Yesso Naik (Constituency: North Goa, Goa)
Hindalco Partners with Italy’s Metra to Manufacture Extruded Products for Rail Coaches Hindalco Industries Limited signed a technology partnership with Rodengo Saiano, Italy-based Metra SpA to manufacture high-precision extruded products for high-speed aluminium rail coaches in India.
Extruded aluminium is important in the railway industry because it combines weight reduction and mechanical strength.
Hindalco plans to invest Rs.2,000 crore in making passenger coaches for the Vande Bharat trains and this technology partnership will provide cutting-edge technology for this effort.
Note:
Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals flagship company of Aditya Birla Group, is the world’s largest aluminium rolling and recycling company.
MetraSpA produces high-technology content aluminium extrusions for Railway, Mechanics, Industrial, Automobile and Architectural applications.
Extrusion is the process of shaping material such as aluminum, by forcing it to flow through a shaped opening in a die.
Air India Launches Project Abhinandan to Offer Enhanced On-Ground Experience to Passengers Tata Sons-owned Air India launched “Project Abhinandan” (greetings in Hindi) to provide personalised and hassle free ground experience for its passengers. As part of the Project Abhinandan, Specially trained Service Assurance Officers(SAOs) will be stationed at 16major airports in India to provide support and assistance to Air India guests.
The 16 major airports include Ahmedabad(Gujarat), Bengaluru(Karnataka), Kochi & Kozhikode(Kerala), Chennai(Tamil Nadu), Delhi, Goa, Guwahati(Assam), Hyderabad(Telangana), Kolkata(West Bengal), Varanasi & Lucknow(Uttar Pradesh), Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune (Maharashtra), and Vishakhapatnam(Andhra Pradesh).
Over 100 Service Assurance Officers have already been recruited and deployed across airports.
These officers have been trained to deal with unexpected problems that travellers may have, such as missed flights, delayed baggage delivery, and misconnections.
GSITI Signs 5-year MoU with ISRO, for Capacity Building in Mineral Resources, Disaster ManagementThe Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI) in Hyderabad (Telangana) has signed a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Bengaluru (Karnataka) as part of the National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS) programme. Signatories: The MoU was signed by Dr Mathew Joseph, Deputy Director General and Head of Mission-V, representing GSITI, and Dr JV Thomas, Director of Earth Observation Applications and Disaster Management Support Programme Office (EDPO), ISRO, in the presence of Shantanu Bhatawdekar, Scientific Secretary, ISRO. Objective : The primary objective of the project is capacity building through the generation of a skilled workforce (human resources) in the Application of Digital Image Processing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Mineral Exploration, Advanced Remote Sensing Techniques in Mineral Exploration, and Applications of Geo-informatics in Disaster Management. About the Collaborative Project Between GSITI & ISRO: i.The scope of the collaborative project between GSITI and ISRO is to conduct a series of training for capacity building in the areas of mineral resources and disaster management within the framework NNRMS programme. ii.This aims to provide individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to contribute effectively to the sustainable management of natural resources and disaster response efforts. iii.The Photo Geology and Remote Sensing (PGRS) Division at GSITI, Hyderabad will conduct 15 training programs over the next 5 years, with an estimated 300 participants.
These participants represent Central/State Government Departments, Public Sector Units (PSUs), faculty members, and research scholars of academic institutions.
About National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS): The NNRMS of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change(MoEF&CC) is a Central Sector (National level) inter-agency system Scheme. It aimed at the utilisation of Remote Sensing Technology for the Inventorisation, Assessment, and Monitoring of the country’s natural resources. ISRO-developed Device Named ‘Nabhmitra’ for Fishers’ Safety Successfully Tested at Neendakara ISRO has successfully tested its innovative device named ‘Nabhmitra’, which was developed at ISRO-Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The device aims to enhance the safety of fishermen during their sea expeditions.
The testing took place at Neendakara in Kollam, Kerala, where the device was installed on a fishing vessel and tested in the presence of scientists and Fisheries department officials.
Nabhmitra operates on the basis of a satellite-based communication system that facilitates two-way communication, bridging the gap between sea and shore.
Features and Benefits of Nabhmitra: i.Fishers receive crucial weather and cyclone warnings in their local language, and the boats can also send distress messages to the authorities. ii.In emergencies such as capsizing or fire, fishers can swiftly send distress signals to the authorities in the control center with the push of a button. iii.The control center instantly receives the distress alert, along with the precise location of the distressed vessel (boat), expediting rescue efforts, and the fishers on the distressed vessel receive prompt response messages. iv.Apart from providing information about shipping channels and maritime boundaries, the device will also help to identify fishing fields.
Indonesia Masters 2023 Badminton: India’s Kiran George Wins Men’s Singles TitleIndia’s Kiran George won the men’s singles title at the BNI Indonesia Masters 2023 held from 5th to 10th September 2023 in Medan, Indonesia.
BNI Indonesia Masters 2023 is the Badminton World Federation(BWF) World Tour Super 100 tournament.
This marks Kiran George’s second BWF Super 100 title after he won his maiden title at the Odisha Open in 2022.
Highlights: i.Men’s Singles: India’s Kiran George won the men’s singles title by defeating Koo Takahashi of Japan in the finals.
This win helped him to get the career-best BWF 39th rank in men’s singles.
ii.Women Singles: Ester Nurumi Tri Wardoyo of Indonesia won the women’s singles title by defeating Chiu Pin-Chian of Chinese Taipei in the finals. iii.Men’s Doubles: Sabar Karyaman Gutama and Muhammad Reza Pahlevi Isfahani of Indonesia won the men’s doubles title by defeating Kakeru Kumagai and Kota Ogawa of Japan. iv.Women’s Doubles: Lanny Tria Mayasari and Ribka Sugiarto of Indonesia won the women’s doubles title by defeating Chang Ching Hui and Yang Ching Tun of Chinese Taipei. v.MixedDoubles:Roy King Yap and Valeree Siow of Malaysia won the mixed doubles title by defeating Hiroki Nishi and Akari Sato of Japan. Prize Money: Total – USD 100,000 Singles Winner – USD 7,500 Doubles Winner – USD 7,900 Key points: i.Indian pair Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa lost to Sung Yu-Hsuan and Wang Szu-Min of Chinese Taipei in the women’s doubles semifinals. ii.India’s Mansi Singh lost to Chiu Pin-Chian of Chinese Taipei in the women’s singles quarter-finals.
World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Day 2023- September 7World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Day also known as World Duchenne Awareness Day (WDAD) is annually observed across the globe on 7th September, to increase awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic disorder affecting muscles.
WDAD also raises awareness and inspires action to improve the lives of people living with Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy (DMD/BMD).
The 2023 theme of World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Day theme is “Duchenne: Breaking Barriers“.
7th September 2023 marks the observance of the 10th World Duchenne Awareness Day.
Background: i.In 2014, Elizabeth Vroom, the Chair and Cofounder of the World Duchenne Organization (WDO); and Nicoletta Madia, the Community Coordinator of the WDO, initiated the observance of World Duchenne Awareness Day to raise global awareness about DMD.
WDO, formerly known as the United Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (UPPMD) is a Netherland-based global umbrella organization of national patient organizations established in 2000.
WDO represents persons with Duchenne and their families worldwide.
ii.The first-ever World Duchenne Awareness Day was celebrated in 2014. iii.Since 2014, the day has become a worldwide movement with participants from across the globe. About Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy(DMD): i.Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is named after Dr. Duchenne de Boulogne, a French neurologist who was one of the first to report the disease in detail in the 1860s. ii.DMD is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness due to the alterations of a protein called ‘dystrophin’ that helps keep muscle cells intact.
Approximately 1 in every 5.000 boys is born with the disease. It is caused by a mutation on the X-chromosome, this is why only a few girls are affected.
Symptoms:
The initial sign of a problem is difficulty in walking. Then, other motor functions follow until it ultimately affects the ability to breathe as well as the function of the heart, as the heart is a muscle too.
The missing protein has a role in brain function, potentially causing learning and behavioural issues.
About Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD): Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) is one of nine types of muscular dystrophies, a group of genetic, degenerative diseases primarily affecting voluntary muscles.
BMD is named after German doctor Peter Emil Becker, who first described this variant of DMD in the 1950s.
Note: DMD/BMD are both X-linked recessive disorders. Both conditions are caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, which encodes the protein dystrophin. BMD has a later onset and milder symptoms compared to DMD. 2023 Observance in India: i.The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), commemorated World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Day on 7th September 2023, with the vision aimed at raising awareness about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).
Indian Navy Signed MoU with Uber to Offer Reliable Mobility Solutions for Naval Personnel, FamiliesThe Indian Navy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with M/s Uber, a leading ridesharing app, to provide reliable, convenient, safe, and economical mobility solutions for personal travel and commute of Naval personnel and families across India.
This MoU aligns with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s (CNS) vision of ‘Happy Personnel’ under the ‘SHIPS FIRST’ approach and is a maiden initiative in the Armed Forces.
This also promotes the Government of India’s (GoI) ‘Digital India’ vision of embracing technology for transformative change.
Key People: The MoU was signed in the presence of Admiral R Hari Kumar, CNS; Mrs. Kala Hari Kumar, President Navy Wellness and Welfare Association (NWWA); and Mr. Abhinav Mittoo, Senior Country Manager, Uber for Business, Under India South Asia and Egypt. About the MoU: i.Through this partnership, the Indian Navy will integrate Uber’s advanced ride-sharing technology via a seamless platform, Uber for Business into the Naval ecosystem. ii.The partnership will help streamline the travel experiences of the Naval workforce, making their travel smoother and the process more efficient. Benefits: Uber will extend several benefits to Indian Naval personnel and their families including: –
A personalised profile on the Uber App.
Premier Executive Cab Category provides surge price protection during peak office hours.
Availability of Top-rated drivers.
Zero cancellation fee on all Uber rides.
24×7 Premium business support.
SHIPS FIRST Approach: i.The Indian Navy has incorporated the ‘SHIPS FIRST’ approach in its functioning, to boost the morale and welfare of the Human Resource. ii.The ‘H’ signifying ‘Happy Personnel’ in ‘SHIPS FIRST‘, highlights the focus of the Indian Navy to meet the welfare of its sailors (personnel) and their families. About Uber Technologies, Inc: Uber is an American transportation conglomerate that provides ride-hailing services. Chief Executive Officer(CEO)– Dara Khosrowshahi Headquarters– California, United States of America President Indiaand South Asia– Prabhjeet Singh Launched in 2009
DEPwD Launched 5 Initiatives for PwDs: Online Case Monitoring Portal for Grievance RedressalThe Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DePWD) under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) launched 5 Pioneering Initiatives to Foster Inclusivity and Empower Persons with Disabilities(PwDs).
An Online Case Monitoring Portal developed by the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) was launched to simplify and expedite the grievance resolution process for PwDs.
The initiatives were launched by PratimaBhoumi, Minister of State (MoS),MoSJEat the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC) in New Delhi, Delhi.
The other 4 initiatives were:
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council of Architecture(COA).
Releasing of Anonymous Data of Unique Disability ID (UDID).
Comprehensive Booklet: Pathways to Access: Courts on Disability Right.
About Online Case Monitoring Portal: Aim: To minimize reliance on physical paperwork, support operational efficiency and Environmental Sustainability in line with the Government’s broader objectives. Features: i.The portal is equipped with a range of features designed to enhance efficiency, including seamless online complaint filing, end-to-end digital process, automation of reminders and time-based notices, and a hybrid approach incorporating e-court and e-office modules. ii.The portal will replace the traditional paper-based procedures with a digital grievance resolution process. iii.The portal will streamline disability grievance handling and is accessible on the Office of the CCPD website. About the other 4 initiatives: i.DEPwD has partnered with COA to introduce universal accessibility courses within Bachelor of Architecture programs.
This partnership will extend to develop a certified course for architects and civil engineers, equip them with skills to conduct accessibility audits in built environments and ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
ii.DEPwD released the anonymous data through the UDID portal for research purposes. This will provide insights at various levels, facilitating a deeper understanding and informing targeted interventions. iii.PM-DAKSH Portal introduced by DEPwD is a comprehensive digital platform designed to empower PwDs in their pursuit of skill training and employment opportunities.
This will offer seamless registration through UDID, access to location-based skill training options, a wide array of job listings from across India, and streamlined administrative processes.
iv.The booklet, Pathways to Access: Courts on Disability Rights, by DEPwD is a compilation of notable judgments from India’s Supreme Court and High Courts concerning disability rights.
This will be a reference guide for PwDs and stakeholders in the disability sector.
Varuna-23: Phase II of 21st edition of Varuna conducted in Arabian Sea The Indian Navy and the French Navy conducted the Phase II of the 21st edition of the Varuna (Varuna 2023), the bilateral maritime exercise, in the Arabian Sea. The 3 day exercise witnessed the participation of guided missile frigates, tankers, maritime patrol aircraft and integral helicopters by both countries.
Varuna 23 was conducted in two phases. The Phase I of ‘Varuna-2023’ was conducted off India’s Western Seaboard from 16th to 20th January 2023.
The 21st edition of Varuna marks the 25th year of Indo-French strategic partnership.
Indian & French Navy bilateral naval exercise was initiated in 1993 and the exercise was named “Varuna” in 2001.
Bharti AXA Life introduces ‘Income Laabh’ to Simplify Insurance with Maximum ProtectionBharti AXA Life Insurance has launched Bharti AXA Life Income Laabh, an individual savings plan that provides both financial security and a consistent income stream throughout the policy term.
It is a non-linked, non-participating individual savings plan with life insurance coverage.
This launch was made as a part of its aim to simplify insurance and deliver maximum protection to its consumers.
Key Points: i.Policyholders can expect guaranteed income for 10 to 12 years, with initial payouts equal to 100% of the annual premium and increasing to 150% after 5 years for a 10-year term, or 200% after 6 years for a 12-year term. ii.A lump sum amount is given at the end of the income period to support important life goals, aiming to enhance the financial well-being of customers and their families. iii.Optional riders are offered for enhanced coverage, providing additional security and peace of mind to policyholders.
Bharti AXA Life Income Laabh also offers flexibility in premium and policy terms, along with potential tax benefits.
About Bharti AXA Life Insurance: Bharti AXA Life Insurance is a joint venture (JV) of New Delhi based Bharti Group (51%) and Paris Based AXA (49%), a French multinational insurance firm. MD & CEO– Parag Raja Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra
NGEL & Nayara Energy Signed MoUFor Green Hydrogen Production NTPC Green Energy Limited(NGEL) signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nayara Energy Limited to produce Green Hydrogen for Nayara Energy’s captive usage and help them in the decarbonisation process and to reduce carbon footprint.
This partnership aligns with NTPC’s initiatives to develop hydrogen projects and aims to make India self-reliant (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
The MoU was signed by NTPCREL’s Chief Executive Officer(CEO) Mohit Bhargava and Nayara Energy’s Head-Technical Amar Kumar.
NGEL is the subsidiary of NTPC Limited (formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation) whereas Nayara Energy Limited is a Pan-India fuel retail network.
CSIR announcesShantiSwarup Bhatnagar Prizes 2022 for 12 scientistsi.On September 11, 2023, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) Director General N Kalaiselvi announced the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (SSB) awards for 2022 to be distributed to 12 young scientists across India. ii.The announcement was made at the launch event of ‘One Week One Lab’ programme of CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), in the presence of Minister of State (MoS) Dr. Jitendra Singh (Ministry of Science and Technology), Vice President, CSIR in New Delhi, Delhi. iii.The purpose of the award is to recognize outstanding Indian work in science and technology. About Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR): Director General– N. Kalaiselvi Parent Ministry– Ministry of Science & Technology Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
RBI Approved Re-appointment of Sandeep Bakhshi as MD & CEO of ICICI Bank for 3yearsThe Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the re-appointment of Sandeep Bakhshias the Managing Director(MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the ICICI Bank Limited for three years with effect from 4th October, 2023 to 3rd October 2026.
This is his second extension of tenure; the first extension happened in 2021 for two years which is about to expire on 3rd October 2023.
He has been serving as the MD & CEO of ICICI Bank since 2018 succeeding Chanda Kochchar.
Background: i.In October 2022, the board of directors of ICICI Bank approved to re-appoint him to the post. ii.The shareholders of the bank also approved the reappointment at the annual general meeting held in August 2023. About Sandeep Bakhshi: i.Prior to the appointment as MD & CEO, Sandeep Bakhshi was a Whole time Director and the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the ICICI Bank. ii.He joined the ICICI Group in 1986 and has handled various assignments across the group in ICICI Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance, ICICI Bank and ICICI Prudential Life Insurance. About ICICI Bank Limited: Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Sandeep Bakhshi Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra Established in 1994 Tagline – Hum Hai Na Khayal Apka
GQG Acquired Over 5 Crore Shares in IDFC First Bank from V Vaidyanathan GQG Partners have acquired 5.07 crore equity shares (0.8% of the total equity) in IDFC First Bank for about Rs 478.70 crore from V Vaidyanathan, Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IDFC First Bank. The transaction occurred at a price of Rs 94.5 per share.
Out of Rs 478.7 crore sales proceeds, Rs 229 crore would be to pay to IDFC First Bank to subscribe to new shares of the bank and Rs 240.5 crore towards income tax payment for exercising the stock options.
Rs 9.2 crore will be contribution to pre-committed causes.
Following this transaction, Vaidyanathan’s shareholding in IDFC FIRST Bank will increase from 0.58% as of 30th June 2023, to 1.04% of the paid-up capital of the bank. Including options yet to be converted, his shareholding is 1.23% of the total share capital of the bank
The stock options were given to Vaidyanathan as a part of the merger between Capital First and IDFC Bank in December 2018.
IDFC First Bank Limited, headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, was established in 2018. Tagline: ‘Always You First’.
Overview of Tata Steel Chess India Rapid and Blitz 2023The Tata Steel Chess India Rapid and Blitz 2023 was held from 31st August to 5th September 2023 at the National Library of India, Kolkata, West Bengal.
India’s Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh won the Tata Steel Chess India Rapid title in the women’s category.
India’s GrandmasterPraggnanandhaa secured third place in both Open Rapid and Open Blitz events.
Maxime Vachier-Lagrave of France won the Tata Steel Chess India Open Rapid title.
Grandmaster (GM) Alexander Grischuk won the Tata Steel India 2023 Open Blitz title.CategoryRapidBlitzOpen(Men’s)Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (France)Alexander Grischuk (Represented by FIDE)Teimour Radjabov (Azerbaijan)Nodirbek Abdusattorov (Uzbekistan)Women’sDivya Deshmukh (India)Ju Wenjun (China)Ju Wenjun (China)Koneru Humpy (India)
About Federation Internationale des Echecs/International Chess Federation (FIDE): President – Arkady Dvorkovich Headquarters – Lausanne, Switzerland Established – 1924
Germany Defeat Serbia to Win First-Ever FIBA Basketball World CupGerman men’s basket ball teamwon the International Basketball Federation(FIBA) Basketball World Cup 2023 by defeating Serbia in the finals held in Manila, Philippines.
The 19th edition of the FIBA Basketball World Cup took place for the first time across three host nations in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia from 25th August to 10th September 2023.
This marks Germany’s maiden FIBA Basketball World Cup title.
The event witnessed the participation of 32 teams grouped into 8, each comprising of 4 teams.
Winners of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:
Germany’s previous best performance at the men’s World Cup was in 2002 in Indianapolis(USA) where they won the bronze medal.
Germany was also unbeaten throughout the tournament and became the fifth consecutive World Cup champion to go unbeaten.
ii.This was Serbia’s second defeat at the finals of the men’s World Cup since they lost to the United States of America(USA) in the 2014 final in Madrid, Spain. iii.Canada bagged the bronze medal by defeating the United States of America(USA).
This also marks Canada’s first medal in the FIBA World Cup.
Awards: i.Dennis Schroder of Germany won the TISSOT Most Valuable Player award.
Josh Giddey (Australia) earned the Wanda Rising Star Award at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
ii.Schroder also joined the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 All-Star 5, along with Bogdan Bogdanovic of Serbia, Canada star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Anthony Edwards from the USA, and Slovenia star Luka Doncic. iii.The winning team was awarded the Naismith trophy named after the Basketball inventor James Naismith. Additional Info: i.Qatar is set to host the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup. ii.Spain won the previous edition of the World Cup (2019) followed by Argentina and France in the second and third place respectively held in China in 2019. About International Basketball Federation/Fédération Internationale de Basketball (FIBA): President – Hamane Niang Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland Established – 1932
NÖ OPEN 2023: ATP Challenger in Tulln: India’s Sumit Nagal ends as Runner-Up Indian tennis player Sumit Nagalfinished as runner up in the NÖ OPEN 2023(powered by EVN), a Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger 100 event, held in Tulln, Austria from 3rd to 10th September 2023.
Czech Republic’s Vit Koprivawon the title defeating Sumit Nagal in the finals held in TC Tulln facility in Tulln.
Nagal earned 60 ranking points during the event and is ranked 156th (as of 11th September 2023) in the ATP Rankings.
He has won a total of four ATP Challenger Tour title: 2017 Bengaluru Open Bengaluru(Karnataka, India), 2019 Challenger de Buenos Aires Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2023 Garden Open in Rome, Italy and 2023 Tampere Open in Tampere, Finland. Note: The NÖ Open is a professional tennis tournament played on clay courts. It is currently part of the ATP Challenger Tour.
Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai Launched Mashaal for 37th National Games P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, Governor of Goa, launched the Mashaal (torch) for the 37th National Games in a ceremony organised by the Department of Sports and Youth affairs, Goa and the Sports Authority of Goa at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Donapaula, Goa.
The 37th National Games is set to be held from 25th October, 2023 to 9th November 2023 in Goa.
Governor also launched the anthem (theme song) of the 37th National Games featuring the voice of Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan. The Goan instrument, Ghumat is also used for the anthem.
During the event, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister (CM) of Goa, launched the website with all information related to the 37th National Games.
Archery World Cup Finals 2023: Indian Archer PrathameshJawkar Clinched Silver Medal Indian archer Prathamesh Samadhan Jawkar(Ranked World No.14) clinched the silver medal in Men’s Coumpond Finals in Hermosillo 2023 Hyundai Archery World Cup Finals which was held in Hermosillo, Mexico on 9th & 10th September 2023.
Prathamesh Jawkar competed against Mathias Fullerton (Ranked World No.14) of Denmark in the gold medal clash.
The match was a tie as both players scored 148 points after five sets. While both archers hit a 10 in the shoot-off, Fullerton won because his arrow was closer to the centre.
British Scientist Sir Ian Wilmut, Creator of Dolly, the Cloned Sheep, Passed away On September 10, 2023, British Scientist Sir Ian Wilmut, the man who led the team at the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh that created Dolly the Sheep in 1996 has passed away at the age of 79. He was born on 7th July 1944 in Hampton Lucy, United Kingdom(UK). About Ian Wilmut: British embryologist Ian Wilmut was a Chair of the Scottish Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh.
He laid the foundations for stem cell research/ regenerative medicine which aims to cure many of the diseases of ageing by enabling the body to regenerate damaged tissue.
Career: i.He worked at the University of Cambridge, as part of Professor Christopher Polge’s team, that worked on the preservation of semen and embryos by freezing.
He was a part of the team that created Frostie, the first calf to be born from a frozen embryo in 1973.
ii.Later, He moved to the Animal Breeding Research Organisation (ABRO), the predecessor to The Roslin Institute. iii.In 2005, He moved to the University of Edinburgh in 2005, becoming the first Director of the MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine. Awards and Honours: i.In 1998, he received the Lord Lloyd of Kilgerran Award and the Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement. ii.He was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1999and a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 2002. iii.He together with Keith Campbell and Shinya Yamanaka jointly received the 2008 Shaw Prize for Medicine and Life Sciences for their works on the cell differentiation in mammals. About Dolly, the Sheep: i.Dolly, a Finn Dorset sheep, was the world’s first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell. ii.Dolly was cloned from a cell taken from the mammary gland of a 6 year old Finn Dorset sheep and an egg cell from a Scottish Blackface sheep. iii.Dolly was born on 5th July 1996 and was announced to the world on 22nd February 1997. After 6 years, Dolly died on 14th February 2003.
American Software Developer & Co-Creator Of PowerPoint Dennis Austin Passed Away Dennis Austin, one of the co-creators of PowerPoint software, passed away. He was born on May 28, 1947 in Pittsburgh city of Pennsylvania, United States of America(USA). He was PowerPoint’s primary developer from 1985 until his retirement in 1996.
Austin along with Robert Gaskins created the powerpoint for the software company Forethought and released it in 1987.
Microsoft then acquired the firm and integrated PowerPoint into its suite of Office programs.
National Forest Martyrs Day 2023- September 11The National Forest Martyrs Day is annually observed across India on 11th September to remember, and honour people who sacrificed their lives to protect forests and Wildlife in India that are important for the well-being of the planet.
The day is also observed as an annual commemoration of the Khejarli massacre in 1730.
Background: i.In 2013, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India (GoI) officially declared the 11th of September of every year as National Forest Martyrs Day.
The day is observed to recognise the infamous Khejarli Massacre of 1730 took place in Khejarli, Rajasthan.
ii.Since 2013, September 11th has been an annual commemoration of the Khejarli massacre known as National Forest Martyrs Day. About Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC): Union Minister– Bhupender Yadav (Rajya Sabha- Rajasthan) Minister of State– Ashwini Kumar Choubey (Constituency- Buxar, Bihar)
International Day for South-South Cooperation 2023- September 12The United Nations (UN) International Day for South-South Cooperation is annually observed across the globe on 12th September, to highlight the importance of cooperation among people and economic and technical cooperation among countries of the developing world, known as the Global South.
South-South Cooperation (SSC) refers to the technical cooperation among developing countries in the Global South.
The 2023 theme of the International Day for South-South Cooperation is, “Solidarity, Equity, and Partnership: Unlocking South-South Cooperation to Achieve the SDGs”.
The theme highlights the importance of SSC in achieving the UN 2030 agenda of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Background: i.On 23rd December 2003, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution A/RES/58/220 and proclaimed the 19th December of every year as the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation. ii.The first-ever UN Day for SSC was observed on 19th December 2004. About United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC): Director– Dima Al-Khatib Headquarters– New York, United States of America (USA) Established in– 1974
ONDC & Transport Dept of Kerala signed MoU to Extend Open Mobility Network Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), an initiative of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry(MoCI) and the Transport Department of the Government of Kerala signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand the scope of the open mobility network in Kerala.
The agreement expanded the Kochi Open Mobility Network to cover the rest of the state of Kerala, now called the Kerala Open Mobility Network (KOMN), which was launched in November 2022 in Kochi, Kerala.
The project will integrate all modes of transportation that are currently operating in Kerala onto the ONDC network and will offer affordable and convenient access to all modes of transport through user-friendly buyer and seller apps.
Signatories: The MoU was signed by S. Sreejith, Transport Commissioner, Kerala; and Shireesh Joshi, Chief Business Officer (CBO), ONDC. About the Collaboration: i.The partnership aims to integrate the KOMN into ONDC, fostering an inclusive and accessible mobility ecosystem without any obstacles. ii.This commitment extends to providing the people of Kerala with convenience, accessibility, and efficiency in all aspects of transportation on the open network. iii.This collaboration, known as the KOMN, brings together various stakeholders from government agencies to private providers, and ensuring safety and convenience, leads to a more connected and accessible Kerala. Benefits: The collaboration to extend the open mobility network, powered by the ONDC protocol, can enhance both the customer and driver value proposition in the Yatri cab and auto booking app in Kochi, Kerala.
It allows drivers to connect directly with customers, eliminating the need for any intermediaries thereby enabling the customers to pay less and drivers to earn more.
With a network of over 5,000 drivers and 2 lakh customers, the app has completed 180,000 trips and enabled drivers to earn over Rs 4.5 crore without any commissions.
India, New Zealand sign MoU for Open Sky Policy; Boost cooperation in Civil AviationOn August 29, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Government of India and the Government of New Zealand for an Open Sky Policy, allowing more flights between various cities in the two countries.
This will further boost the bilateral between both nations in civil aviation by scheduling of new routes, code share services, traffic rights and capacity entitlement.
Signatories: It was signed by Rajiv Bansal, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), India; and David Pine, the New Zealand High Commissioner in the presence of Union Minister JyotiradityaScindia, MoCA, and Damien O’ Connor, Minister for Trade and Export Growth of New Zealand. What is in the MoU? i.Under this, New Zealand’s designated airline(s) can operate unrestricted services with any type of aircraft, holding third and fourth freedom traffic rights to/from six Indian cities: New Delhi (Delhi), Mumbai (Maharashtra), Bengaluru (Karnataka), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Hyderabad (Telangana), and Kolkata (West Bengal). This is set to amplify bilateral civil aviation relations. ii.Similarly, India’s designated airline(s) can operate unrestricted services with any aircraft type, having third and fourth freedom traffic rights to/from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and three other New Zealand points to be designated by the Indian Government. iii.Both parties’ airlines can operate unlimited all-cargo services using any aircraft type, enjoying third, fourth, and fifth freedom traffic rights between any points in each other’s territories, including via intermediate and beyond points beyond those in the Route Schedule. Key Points: i.Both sides reviewed the existing arrangements relating to air service between the two countrie.
An Air Services Agreement was signed between New Zealand and India at Auckland, New Zealand on 1st May 2016.
ii.Third freedom right involves carrying passengers/cargo from home country to another while fourth freedom is the opposite i.e. transporting to home country from another.
These rights are typically granted together in bilateral agreements.
iii.The Fifth freedom right means that the aircraft of country A, from a service originating in country A, is allowed to embark passengers and cargo in country B and disembark them in country C. About New Zealand: Capital– Wellington Currency– New Zealand Dollar Prime Minister– Chris Hipkins
NITI Aayog and UNDP India Signed MoU On Fast Tracking SDGsNational Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India have signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to speed up the efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs). Aim: The agreement aims to make a clear plan of cooperation on a range of areas, including SDG localisation, data-driven monitoring, Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme, and SDG financing. Outcome: i.The MoU was signed for a period of five years. ii.UNDP will also provide support for NITI Aayog’s work on women’s livelihoods, innovation, and Mission LiFE. iii.UNDP plays the integrator role in coordinating efforts to fast-track progress on the SDGs within the United Nation system. Representatives: Yogesh Suri, Senior Adviser (SDGs) from NITI Aayog, and Ms. Shoko Noda, Resident Representative of UNDP India, signed the MoU in the presence of B. V. R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog. SDG and India: i.India’s achievement in reducing multidimensional poverty to 50 percent between 2015-2016 and 2019-2021 showcases that moving towards SDG is possible irrespective of complex challenges. ii.India’s leadership is essential for ensuring that SDGs become a reality. About Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs): i.The Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), officially known as ‘Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’ is a set of 17 Global Goals to be achieved within 2030 by 193 Member States. ii.The SDGs were adopted by the United Nations in 2015. iii.The SDGs come after and build upon the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) from 2000 to 2015.About National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog: NITI Aayog is the country’s premier policy-making which aims to construct a strong state to create a dynamic and strong nation. The NITI Aayog’s creation has two hubs called “Team India Hub” and “Knowledge and Innovation Hub”. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – B. V. R. Subrahmanyam Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi Established in – 2015 About United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator – Achim Steiner Headquarters – New York City, United States of America(USA) Established in – 1966
Cabinet Approvals on 29th August 2023The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has approved the following proposals on 29th August 2023: i.The Cabinet Committee for Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the reduction of LPG (Liquefied petroleum gas) cost by Rs 200 per cylinder for all consumers w.e.f. August 30, 2023. This will also be applicable to PradhanMantriUjjwalaYojana (PMUY). ii.The Ministry of Textiles has approved the Startup Guidelines for Technical Textiles – Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT). This initiative offers a grant of up to Rs 50 Lakhs, supporting aspiring innovators in the technical textiles field for 18 months. iii.The Union Cabinet adopted a resolution hailing the soft-landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface, highlighting that the mission’s achievement signifies not only Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) success but also India’s advancement and global stature. About Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO): Chairman– Sreedhara Panicker Somanath Headquarters– Bengaluru, Karnataka Establishment– 1969
Goa Shipyard & Kenya Shipyard Ltd Signed MoU for Collaboration in ShipbuildingThe Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with Kenya Shipyard Limited(KSL) for capacity building and collaboration in ship design and building.
The MoU was signed during the bilateral Defence Ministers meeting between Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence Aden Bare Duale in New Delhi, Delhi on August 29, 2023.
Note: i.GSL is a Miniratna Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU), under the Ministry of Defence(MoD). ii.Kenya Shipyards Limited(KSL) is a state-owned company under the Kenyan Defence Ministry. It was established in 2020 with the objective to address the operational requirements of the Kenya Navy and for the construction, repair and maintenance of ships and provision of other maritime services. About the bilateral meeting: i.During the meet, India and Kenya discussed on capacity building and cooperation in defence industry and equipment. They also discussed on the other regional security issues of mutual interest. ii.Defece Minister Rajnath Singh presented 15 pairs of parachutes (main and reserve) manufactured by Gliders India Limited to Aden Bare Duale for Kenyan forces as a mark of friendship.
India also offered assistance in the setting up of an advanced CT scan facility in Kenya.
iii.India and Kenya have agreed to expand their collaboration in the Indian Ocean Region(IOR)’s marine security, counter-insurgency training, and UN peacekeeping domains. Key people: Chief of Defence Staff(CDS) General Anil Chauhan and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane were present during the bilateral meeting. Additional info: Aden Bare Duale, Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence, is on a 3 day visit to India. This marks his 1st visit of Duale to India and the highest level stand-alone political visit from Kenya since the new government assumed office in September 2022.
He will be visiting the shipyards and defence industries in Goa and Bengaluru(Karnataka).
About Goa Shipyard Limited(GSL): Chairman & Managing Director(CMD) – Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay Established – 1957 Headquarters– Vasco Da Gama, Goa
Automotive PLI Scheme Extended By Another Year Till FY28Union Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey,Ministry of Heavy Industries(MHI) in ‘Review of Production Linked Incentive-Auto Scheme’ announced the extension of the deadline of Production Linked Incentive(PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industryby another year.
The program that was supposed to last for five years, from 2022-23 to 2026-27, will be active till 2027-28.
The distribution of the incentives will be on a quarterly basis, instead of an annual plan.
PLI Scheme for Automotive Sector i.Under the Automotive PLI scheme, incentives are applicable for specified sales of Advanced Automotive Technology (AAT) products (vehicles and components) manufactured in India starting from April 1, 2022.These incentives will remain in effect for a continuous period of five years. ii.Eligibility to Incentive: AAT products for which a minimum of 50 per cent Domestic Value Addition (DVA) is achieved and has been certified by Testing Agencies (TAs) of MHI.
This requirement will help to reduce imports, making it easier to manufacture AAT products locally, and creating both domestic and global supply chains.
iii.In April 2023, MHI published Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for DVA certification to facilitate ease of doing business (EODB). iv.95 companies are covered under the scheme that looks to promote local manufacturing of new technology products. Two More Testing Agencies: The ministry also approved a request to add two more TAs to test the vehicles and components. i.Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC) in Chennai, Tamilnadu ii.National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) in Madhya Pradesh Current testing centres: Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) in Pune, Maharashtra and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (iCAT) in Manesar, Haryana. Additional Information: The scheme has two components viz. Champion OEM incentive scheme and Component Champion incentive scheme.
Champion OEMs, specializing in electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Component Champions, focused on manufacturing high-value and advanced components.
48 African Countries Adopted Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment & Climate Change48 African countries have agreed to adopt the Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC) to address climate change and human mobility challenges in Africa and leverage the opportunities for sustainable development.
This was announced during the Technical Conference of States on the continental expansion of the KDMECC held from 23rd to 25th August 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya.
The KDMECC-AFRICA is expected to be signed by Member States during the Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenya on 4th September 2023.
About the conference: i.The conference was co-hosted by the Governments of Kenya and Uganda with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ii.The conference also enabled the African States to develop a common position ahead of the Africa Climate Summit and the Conference of Parties (COP 28). About KDMECC: During the Inter-Ministerial Conference on Migration, Environment and Climate Change held from 27 to 29 July 2022 in Kampala, Uganda, 15 African states signed and agreed upon the Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC).
KDMECC was the first member state-led comprehensive and action-oriented framework to address climate-induced mobility in practical and effective ways.
Key Points: i.KDMECC addresses the nexus of human mobility and climate change in the whole of Africa. ii.KDMECC-AFRICA will ensure that everyone’s voices, including the voices of youth, women and persons in vulnerable situations, are the priority of the expanded declaration. iii.This offers a platform to support the priorities of the member states in addressing the challenges and also enables them to leverage migration for sustainable development. About the International Organization for Migration (IOM): IOM is a United Nations (UN) agency that provides services and advice concerning migration. Director General– António Vitorino Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland Membership– 175 member states and 8 observer states Established in 1951
RBI Authorises Bandhan Bank for Disbursing Civil Pension
Bandhan Bank Ltd has been appointed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to act as an authorized bank for pension disbursement for civil pensioners on behalf of the Central Pension Accounting Office (CPAO), an entity under the Ministry of Finance.
Bandhan Bank will soon be integrating with the office of the CPAO to operationalise the disbursement process.
Beneficiary Categories: i.Bank authorization is primarily aimed at disbursing pensions to the following groups:
The Central Government employees in Civil Ministries and Departments (other than Railways, Posts, and Defence)
The National Capital Territory of Delhi
Union Territory Administrations without legislatures,
Retired Judges of the High Courts and the Supreme Court, and
All India Service Officers.
ii.This scheme also covers the payment of pensions to former Members of Parliament (MPs) and the payment of pensions and other amenities to former Presidents/Vice Presidents of India. About Bandhan Bank: Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer– Chandra Shekhar Ghosh Headquarters– Kolkata, West Bengal Established In– 2015 Tagline– Aapka Bhala Sabki Bhilai
ADB Approves Rs.3.32 crore for Safe Public Transport Projects in Hyderabad The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has granted Rs.3.32 crore to a team of technology experts from Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS) Hyderabad (Telangana), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay (Maharashtra), and IIT Kharagpur (West Bengal) to develop, test, and implement passenger safety projects in the public transport systems of Hyderabad.
The experts’ team led by Prof. Prasanta Sahu, was working on developing technology solutions to improve last-mile security for metro rail and public transit passengers under the guidance of NVS Reddy, Managing Director (MD) Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL).
A maiden inception workshop of Technologies for Urban Transit to Enhance Mobility & Safe Accessibility (TUTEM) was organised at BITS, Hyderabad campus, where DGP Anjani Kumar as the Chief Guest promised full support from the Police department to ensure success and boost commuter confidence in safe travel.
Geetika Srivastava Appointed as 1st woman Charge d’Affaires in Pakistan Geetika Srivastava, a 2005 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer was appointed as the first woman Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) at the High Commission of India in Islamabad, Pakistan. She is currently serving as the Joint Secretary at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and looks after the Indo-Pacific division.
She will succeed Dr M Suresh Kumar, who will be returning to New Delhi.
She has served in the Indian embassy in China from 2007-09, and also served as Director in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Division of the MEA as well as a Regional Passport Officer in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Note: Pakistan has appointed Saad Ahmad Warraich as its new CAD in High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi, Delhi.
At present there are no high commissioners in the High Commission of India in Islamabad, Pakistan. CDA is a joint secretary rank equivalent officer.
The Indian and Pakistani high commissions in Islamabad and Delhi are being headed by their respective CDA after Pakistan downgraded diplomatic ties after India’s decision to abolish Article 370, which revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, in August 2019.
Sports Minister AnuragThakur Launches National Sports Federations Portal on National Sports Day On the occasion of National Sports Day 2023 (29th August 2023), Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) launched the National Sports Federations(NSFs) portal during the event organised at the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium.
The portal is in line with the Government of India’s vision for Digital India which will ensure ease of business and good governance.
About the portal: i.It is a unified online portal and a single window system for the NSFs for processing of annual renewal of recognition of NSFs, elections of NSFs etc. ii.It will replace the existing system of physical mode of submission of documents by NSFs and ensure better coordination among the Department of Sports and the NSFs. Highlights of the event: i.Union Minister Anurag Thakur also launched the 3rd edition of Fit India Quiz and other initiatives during the event. ii.He also launched the Information booklet on Sports Infrastructure Projects sanctioned under the Khelo India Scheme.
The book highlights the sports infrastructure that has been developed and is in the pipeline in various States and Union Territories(UTs) of India.
iii.He also felicitated the Indian men’s 4x400m relay team, who finished 5th in the 2023 World Athletics Championships held at Budapest, Hungary.
The team finished 5th clocking in at 2:59:92s, creating a new Asian and National Record.
iv.An online application submission and processing portal was launched which will be utilized for handling all the application for creation and upgradation of sports infrastructures and demand for sports equipment under the Khelo India Scheme.
This portal will be available for grantees, States, UTs for submission of their proposals of financial support from September 1, 2023.
Attendees: The event was attended by almost 500 school children from various schools in New Delhi as well as several elite athletes and officials from the MYAS, Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the National Sports Federations (NSFs).
WR Chess Team Wins FIDE World Rapid Team Championship 2023WR Chess team won the 1st edition of World Chess Federation (FIDE) World Rapid Team Championship 2023 held in Dusseldorf, Germany from 25th to 28th August 2023.
Team Freedom finished second, while the Indian squad of MGD1 was third.
Highlights: i.The team Columbus Energy Kings Of Chess from Kraków(Poland) won 12,500 Euros as the best-performing team with a rating below 2400. ii.The special prize ‘Rainer Niermann Cup’ for the best game by a youngster was won by 12-year-old Christian Glöckler of Germany for his victory over South African Grand Master(GM) Kenny Solomon.
He is also ranked fifth in the world in his age group.
iii.Total prize money – 250,000 Euros
Winner – 100,000 Euros
Second place – 60,000 Euros
Third Place – 40,000 Euros
Note: WR Chess stands for German entrepreneur Wadim Rosenstein. He is the creator of this new event, which he sponsored with his company WR Logistics and participated in himself. Winners of FIDE World Rapid Team 2023:
Each team has at least six and not more than nine players, including at least one female player and one recreational player.
The event consists of 12 rounds played under the Swiss System.
iii.Apart from medals and rewards to top teams, individual medals were awarded for the board prizes.
Indians Pentala Harikrishna (Bronze), Vidit Gujrathi (Silver), Raunak Sadhwani (Silver), Pranesh M (Bronze), Harika Dronavalli (Silver) and Peter Anand A (Silver) are the individual medal winners for their respective boards.
About Federation Internationale des Echecs/International Chess Federation (FIDE): President – Arkady Dvorkovich Headquarters – Lausanne, Switzerland Established – 1924
Maharashtra signs MoU with Germany’s DFL to Develop Indian Football The Government of Maharashtra signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga GmbH(DFL) to develop the football ecosystem in India. The agreement focuses on advancing football expertise and professionalising structures within the state of Maharashtra.
DFL operates Bundesliga, a professional association football league in Germany.
The MoU was signed by Commissioner of Sports and Youth Services Dr. Suhas Diwase as part of the prestigious Shree Shiv Chhatarapati Awards ceremony in Pune, India.
A delegation representing the Bundesliga attended the ceremony and winessed the signing.
The MoU outlines 3 fundamental components to develop football in Maharashtra: improving the technical and sporting expertise at all levels within clubs, associations, colleges and schools; strengthening football structures across the Indian subcontinent; and specifically supporting the progression of football within the Maharashtra.
Established in 1970, the Directorate of Sports & Youth Services is an autonomous body under the Government of Maharashtra, focused on the instillation and promotion of sports, youth welfare, and physical education within the mainstream education sector.
Indian Women’s Hockey Team wins inaugural Women’s Hockey 5s Asia Cup; defeats Thailand 7-2 in Final On 28th August 2023, The Indian Women‘s Hockey Team won the inaugural Women’s Hockey5s Asia Cup by defeating Thailand (7-2) in the final match. Women’s Hockey5s Asia Cup 2023, held in Salalah, Oman from 25th to 28th August 2023, was the qualifying tournament FIH(Fédération Internationale de Hockey) Women Hockey 5s World Cup 2024.
With this victory, India qualifies for the FIH Women Hockey 5s World Cup 2024, the inaugural edition of FIH Hockey5s World Cup, which is to be held in Muscat, Oman from 24th to 27th January 2024.
Mariana Kujur (2nd, 8th minutes) and Jyoti (10th, 27th) scored a brace for India, while Monika Dipi Toppo (7th), skipper Navjot Kaur (23rd) and Mahima Choudhary (29th) were the other goal scorers. For Thailand, Kunjira Inpa (5th) and Sanpoung Kornkanok (5th) were on target.
Hockey India has announced a Rs. 2 lakh reward to each player of the team, while Rs. 1 lakh each for the support staff.
Player of the Tournament was Aunjai Natthakarn (Thailand) and Goalkeeper of the Tournament was Rumbiak Iryani (Indonesia).
National Small Industry Day 2023 – August 30National Small Industry Day is annually observed across India on 30th August to celebrate the invaluable contributions made by the small-scale industry to India’s growth.
This day also aimed to promote small businesses nationwide and offer job opportunities to unemployed males and females for the betterment of their lives.
Background: i.On 30th August 2000, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, then Prime Minister of India, announced a comprehensive policy package for the Small Scale Industries(SSI) sector during the first-ever National Conference on SSI organised by the Ministry of SSI and the Ministry of Agro and Rural Industries (ARI).
The policy helped small businesses with the development of infrastructure and technology.
ii.Since then the Government of India (GoI) has formally celebrated 30th August as National Small Industry Day. About Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (M/o MSMEs): On 9 May 2007, subsequent to an amendment of the GoI (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961, the erstwhile Ministry of SSI and the Ministry of Agro and Rural Industries were merged to form the M/o MSME. Union Minister – Narayan Tatu Rane (Rajya Sabha- Maharashtra) Minister of State – Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma (Constituency – Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh)
Pradhan Mantri Jan DhanYojana Completes 9 Years of Successful ImplementationOn 28th August 2023, Pradhan Mantri Jan DhanYojana (PMJDY), a National Mission for Financial Inclusion (FI) completed 9 years of successful implementation.
PMJDY, the biggest financial inclusion initiative in the world, was introduced by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on 15th August 2014(Indepedence Day) and was launched on 28th August 2014.
Financial Inclusion: i.FI is a comprehensive approach aimed at fostering economic development and ensuring that financial services are accessible to all segments of society. ii.FI promotes equitable and inclusive growth by extending financial services at an affordable cost to vulnerable groups such as low-income groups and weaker sections that lack access to basic banking services. About Pradhan Mantri Jan DhanYojana (PMJDY): i.PMJDY aims to ensure access to financial services, namely, basic savings & deposit accounts, remittance, credit, insurance, and pension in an affordable manner to all households in India. ii.Under the scheme, a basic savings bank deposit (BSBD) account can be opened in any bank branch or Business Correspondent (Bank Mitra) outlet, by persons not having any other account. Features: i.One basic savings bank account is opened for unbanked people. ii.There is no requirement to maintain any minimum balance (zero balance/zero charges) in PMJDY accounts. iii.Interest is earned on the deposit in PMJDY accounts. iv.Rupay Debit card is provided to PMJDY account holders. Benefits: i.Accident Insurance Cover of Rs.1 lakh (enhanced to Rs. 2 lakh for new PMJDY accounts opened after 28th August 2018) is available with a RuPay card issued to the PMJDY account holders. ii.An overdraft (OD) facility up to Rs. 10,000 to eligible account holders is available. iii.PMJDY accounts are eligible for all Government benefits (from Centre / State / Local Body) to the beneficiaries accounts such as:
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Bank (MUDRA) scheme.
Achievements: i.As of mid-August 2023, the number of total PMJDY Accounts is 50.09 crore; 55.6% (27.82 crore) Jan-Dhan account holders are women and 66.7% (33.45 crore) Jan Dhan accounts are in rural and semi-urban areas. ii.Jan Dhan–Aadhaar–Mobile (JAM) architecture has enabled the successful transfer of Government benefits in the accounts of the common man consistently. iii.Jan Dhan Darshak App (JDD App), is a mobile application that provides a citizen-centric platform for locating banking touch points such as bank branches, ATMs, Banking Correspondents (BCs), Indian Post Payment Banks, etc. in India.
Over 13 lakh banking touchpoints have been mapped on the JDD App.
PM Narendra Modi addresses B20 Summit India 2023held in New DelhiFrom August 25-27, 2023, the Business 20 (B20) Summit India 2023, an official G20 (Group of Twenty) dialogue forum with the global business community, was held in New Delhi, Delhi.
Prime Minister (PM) of India, Narendra Modi, addressed the summit on 27th August 2023.
The theme of B20 India 2023 was ‘R.A.I.S.E’, an acronym for ‘Responsible, Accelerated, Innovative, Sustainable, Equitable‘.
The B20 India 2023 Communique includes 54 recommendations and 172 policy actions for submission to G20.
B20 India: i.Throughout India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, the B20 India Secretariat, represented by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), led the B20’s activities.
The Secretariat was responsible for overseeing the development and execution of the B20 process.
ii.The chair of B20 India is Mr N Chandrasekaran, Executive Chairman, Tata Sons. iii.At the culmination of the summit, N Chandrasekaran, Chair of B20 India handed over the B20 Presidency to Brazil. Note: India officially assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2022 after taking over from Indonesia. Key Points: i.It was attended by over 1500 policymakers, business leaders and experts. ii.B20, during India’s Presidency, led the process of galvanizing global business leaders for their views on issues of global economic and trade governance. iii.The Summit saw the culmination of the year-long outcomes of all the B20 India Taskforces and Action Councils.
Nitin Gadkari Launched World’s 1st BS 6 Stage II ‘Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicle”Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways(MoRTH) launched the world’s firstprototype of BS-VI(Bharat Stage Six) Stage II compliant “Electrified Flex Fuel vehicle”, Toyota Innova Hycross.It is a variant of Toyota’s Innova, developed by Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited(Toyota Kirloskar).
This is also India’s first flex-fuel electrified vehicle that can run in either electric mode or 100% ethanol.
This launch is in line with India’s target to increase ethanol blending in petrol by 20% by 2025-2026.
About the Electrified Flex Fuel vehicle: i.The new Electrified Flex Fuel vehicle(FFV) is based on the InnovaHycrossand is designed and developed to comply with the emission standards of India.
Flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) have an internal combustion engine and are capable of operating on petrol and any blend of petrol and ethanol.
ii.The upcoming stages of this prototype will include meticulous refinement, homologation and certification process. iii.This innovative vehicle has an internal combustion engine and is capable of operating on petrol and any blend of petrol and ethanol.
Until now, the maximum limit of mixing is set at around 83%.But but this model says to run on 100 per cent ethanol.
Key People: Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas(MoPNG), Union Minister Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey, Ministry of Heavy Industries; Masakazu Yoshimura, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO), Toyota Kirloskar were presented during the launch. Bharat Stage (BS): Bharat stage(BS) emission standards are emission standards instituted by the Government of India to regulate the output of air pollutants from compression ignition engines and Spark-ignition engines equipment, including motor vehicles. Bharat Stage Six(BS-VI): i.Bharat Stage Six (BS-VI) or BS6 is the 6th emission benchmark or criterion in reducing pollution levels when compared to the BSIV or BS4 emission norms.
Both are the maximum emission norms which set the maximum pollution from the exhaust of the motor vehicle.
India shifted to BS VI vehicular emission norms by 1st April 2020 from BS IV.
ii.As per the previous Auto fuel Policy, BS-II, BS-III and BS-IV quality auto fuels were introduced in India by 1sy April 2017. The Committee proposed the implementation of BS-V emission norms by 1st April 2020 and the BS-VI emission norms from 2024. iii.Due to the increasing pollution, the Government implemented the BS-IV and BS-VI emissions with effect from 1st April 2020. iv.The fuel quality has improved from BS-IV to BS-VI norms by reducing the permissible Sulphur content from 50 Parts Per Million (ppm) in BS-IV to a maximum of 10 ppm in BS-VI-compliant fuel. Additional info:
India has reduced the dependence on oil imports with an aim to become self-reliant. At present, India imports fossil fuels worth Rs 16 lakh crore every year.
Ethanol (also called ethyl alcohol, or alcohol) is a biofuel with the chemical formula C2H5OH. It is naturally made by the fermentation of sugar.
President of India Released Rs.100 Coin Commemorating Late Shri NT Rama RaoGovernment of India(GoI) introduced a commemorative Rs.100 silver coin featuring the image of the Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (N.T. R),a former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and a legendary Indian actor.President of India Droupadi Murmu released the coin to mark the 100th birth anniversary (centenary Year) of N.T.Rama Roa at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre(RBCC) in New Delhi,Delhi. Specifications of Rs.100 Silver coin:-
The coin is 44mm in diameter and it is made from 50 percent Silver, 40 per cent Copper, 5 per cent Nickel and 5 per cent Zinc.
It has three lions and the Ashoka Chakra on one side and an image of NTR on the other side, along with the inscription ‘Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Satha Jayanthi’.
NTR’s centenary, the coin also has the inscription 1923-2023.
About N.T.Rama Rao i.He served as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for three terms and was well known as Anna Garu (Elder Brother) by the fans and supporters.He made his debut in Telugu language movies. ii.N.T.RamaRao was honored with three National Film Awards for his involvement in the production of Telugu movies Thodu Dongalu (1954) and Seetharama Kalyanam (1960) and directing Varakatnam (1970).He was also honoured with India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, the Padma Shri in 1968 in the field of arts and films. iii.He became familiar in 1950s for his portrayal of Hindu Gods such as Lord Krishna,Lord Rama and Lord Shiva in his movies. iv.He is also recognized for his role for the initiatives such as Telugu Cultural Renaissance and the Telugu language movement. The Government Mint
India Government Mint, Mumbai (‘IGM Mumbai’) is engaged in the manufacture of circulation coins, commemorative coins, medals and medallions, and weights & measures standards. The IGM Mumbai, established in 1829, is one of the oldest mints in India.
It is part of the Union Finance Ministry and is operated by the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL).
The first Mumbai Mint rupee was coined in the year 1672.
ADB Signs Agreement with Fourth Partner to Set up Solar Power Plant in Tamil NaduThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed an agreement of worth Rs 1.2 billion (about USD 14.7 million) with Fourth Partner Energy (4PEL) Private Limited (Fourth Partner), an Independent Power Producer(IPP) to build and operate a solar photovoltaic power plant in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.
The 25 Megawatt(MW) power plant will produce electricity of about 50.7 GigaWatt-hours(GWh) annually.
Note: ADB for the first time provides direct financing for a renewable energy plant. Aim:
The solar photovoltaic power plant aims to provide clean and affordable energy to commercial and industrial users.
The plant will prevent the emission of nearly 41,700 tons of carbon dioxide(CO2) per year.
About Open access energy procurement: i.Open Access enables heavy users with a connected load exceeding 1 MW to purchase affordable electricity from the open market. ii.India’s open access renewable energy policy allows businesses to buy electricity directly from IPP.
This can help them to reduce their carbon emissions and achieve net zero emission target.
Additional Info: Other projects of Fourth Partner: Construction of solar and wind parks across Ottapidaram, Tuticorin and Nandikundu, Virudhunagar in Tamil Nadu. About Asian Development Bank (ADB): President – Masatsugu Asakawa Headquarters – Manila, Philippines Established in – 1966 Members – 68 member countries Fourth Partner Energy (4PEL) Private Limited (Fourth Partner) Fourth Partner Energy, a premier Renewable Energy firm dedicated to the advancement of solar, wind, hybrid, battery storage, and e-mobility projects/solutions. Catering to the diverse needs of commercial, industrial, and institutional entities, the company has positioned itself as a beacon of innovation and progress. Headquarters – Hyderabad, Telangana Established in – 2010
‘Infinity Savings Account’ , First-Of-Its-Kind Fixed Fee-Based Savings Account Launched by Axis BankAxis Bank Limited launched ‘Infinity Savings Account’, a first-of-its-kind fully Digital fixed fee-based savings account with no paperwork or branch visits.We can able to open completely in digital through the Video Know Your Customer (KYC) process.
This account is designed for customer who are comfortable using digital services and often sign up for subscription-based services.
Eligibility: Any Resident Indian who is 18 years and above with Initial Funding of Rs 5,000. Benefits: i.Customers need to pay a fixed amount of fee at a predefined interval of time.
There are no service charges or no Average Monthly Balance (AMB) requirement
ii.No charges on any domestic transactional fees. iii.Free Debit Card with unlimited Automated Teller Machine (ATM) withdrawals. iv.No charges on cheque book usage or transactions/withdrawals above limits. Plans offered: i.Monthly plan: The customers need to pay Rs 150 every month.The plan should be in active for a minimum of 6 months. ii.Annual plan: The annual plan is charged at Rs.1650 (inclusive of GST) and offers Infinity benefits for 360 days. About Axis Bank Limited: Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) – Amitabh Chaudhry Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra Established in – 1993 Tagline – Badhti Ka Naam Zindagi
Highlights of RIL’s 46th AGM 2023;JioAirFiber Launchedi.On August 27, 2023, the 46th Annual General Meeting of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) was held through video-conferencing where Managing Director (MD) and Chairman Mukesh Ambani of RIL made key announcements. ii.RIL’s consolidated revenues stood at Rs 9,74,864 crore, while Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) for FY23 was Rs 1,53,920 crore. The net profit was Rs 73,670 crore. iii.Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (Jio) is all set to launch ‘JioAirFiber’, a new Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) internet service for homes and offices, on September 19, 2023 i.e. on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. iv.RIL will set up 100 Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants to convert agri-waste into gas. It already has set up two demo units for Compressed Biogas (CBG) at Jamnagar while it has commissioned the first commercial scale CBG plant at Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh (UP). About Reliance Industries Limited (RIL): CMD– Mukesh D. Ambani Headquarters– Mumbai, Maharashtra Establishment– 1958
Winners of India Smart Cities Awards Contest 2022 On 25th August 2023, The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has announced the winners of the India Smart Cities Award Contest (ISAC) under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM).
Indore(Madhya Pradesh) topped the National Smart City Award, followed by Surat(Gujarat) and Agra(Uttar Pradesh) in second and third place respectively.
Madhya Pradesh topped the State Award, followed by Tamil Nadu in the second place, and Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh in the third place.
Chandigarh has awarded best Union Territory award.
In the Project Awards category, Coimbatore took the top spot for built environment, Ahmedabad for the culture and Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) theme, Jabalpur for economy, Chandigarh for governance and mobility, Indore for sanitation, water and urban environment, Vadodara for social aspects.
About Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs(MoHUA): Union Minister– Hardeep Singh Puri(Rajya Sabha- Uttar Pradesh) Minister of State– Kaushal Kishore (Constituency- Mohanlalganj, Uttar Pradesh)
Shriram Finance’s EVC Umesh Revankar Appointed as FIDC Chairman Umesh Revankar was appointed as the chairman of the Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC) for a period of 2 years with effect form 23rd August 2023. He is currently serving as the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of Shriram Finance Limited.
FIDC is a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO) cum Representative Body of Asset and Loan Financing of the Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India(RBI).
Other Appointments: Kamlesh Gandhi, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of MAS Financial Services Limited, and K. V. Srinivasan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Profectus Capital Pvt Limited, will act as co-chairmen of FIDC. About Umesh Revankar: i.Umesh Revankar joined as an executive trainee with Shriram Group in 1987, and he has risen through the ranks, assuming various responsibilities and key leadership roles in business operations. ii.Revankar also serves as a director for several companies within the Shriram Group, including Shriram Automall India, Shriram General Insurance company, and Shriram Life Insurance company. About Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC): Chairman– Umesh Revankar Established -2004 Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
BHEL Manufactures First Set of Indigenous SCR Catalysts to limit NOx emission Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has manufactured India’s first set of Indigenous Catalysts for Selective Catalyst Reactors (SCR) for limiting oxides of nitrogen (NOx).This production is in line with the government’s “Make in India” Initiative.
Ms. Renuka Gera, Director (Industrial Systems & Products), BHEL flagged off the first set of indigenously manufactured SCR catalysts for the 5×800 Mega Watt(MW)Yadadri Thermal Power Station in Telangana,from the company’s Solar Business Division (SBD) unit in Bengaluru,Karnataka.
Combustion of coal converts the nitrogen bound in coal to form various products such as nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O).These products are collectively called oxides of nitrogen (NOx) which are significant major pollutant.
Note – Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is an Indian Maharatna central public sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Heavy Industries. Established in 1956, BHEL is based in New Delhi i.As per the recent environment protection notification of Ministry of Environment and Forest,Telangana State Power Generation Corporation Limited (TSGENCO) had placed an order for SCRs for 5×800 MW Yadadri thermal power station,Telangana. ii.Further, Maharashtra State Power Generation Co Ltd (MAHAGENCO) for 1×660 MW Bhusawal thermal power station in Maharashtra, West Bengal Power Development Corporation Limited (WBPDCL) for 1×660 MW Sagardighi thermal power station in West Bengal and National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) is a Navratna CPSE under Ministry of Mines for 1×18.5 MW Damanjodi thermal power station in Odisha.
F1 Dutch GP: Max Verstappen Wins 11th Title of 2023 SeasonMax Verstappen, the Red Bull driver (Dutch-Belgian) won the title at the Formula 1 (FI) Heineken Dutch Grand Prix(GP) held at C
