National news
Swami Vivekananda’s 132nd Anniversary Commemoration by PM Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 132nd anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s 1893 speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago.
- Global Message: Vivekananda’s speech highlighted India’s message of unity, peace, and brotherhood, resonating with a global audience.
- Enduring Inspiration: Modi praised the timeless influence of the speech, which continues to inspire generations to work for unity and harmony.
- Public Sharing: Modi shared the speech on X and linked to Belur Math’s official website for further reading.
Swami Vivekananda: Life and Legacy
- Birth and Early Life: Born on January 12, 1863, in Kolkata, India.
- Famous Chicago Speech: Achieved global recognition in 1893 for advocating Hinduism and universal brotherhood at the World’s Parliament of Religions.
- Philosophy: Promoted Vedanta and Yoga, emphasizing religious unity and self-realization.
- Key Works: Authored spiritual texts such as Raja Yoga and Karma Yoga.
- Belur Math: Co-founded the Ramakrishna Mission, focusing on social service and spiritual education.
- Legacy: Remembered for introducing Indian spirituality to the West and contributing to the revival of Hinduism.
Maharashtra to establish Tribal University in Nashik
Maharashtra Governor Shri. C. P. Radhakrishnan has announced the establishment of a tribal university in Nashik district.
Details of the University:
- Location: Nashik, Maharashtra.
- Educational Scope: Will offer quality education from Kindergarten to Post-graduation levels.
- Seat Reservation: 80% of seats reserved for tribal students.
Governor’s Role: As per the Maharashtra University Act 1984, the Governor, as Chancellor, has the authority to establish universities and institutes for educational development.
Purpose and Objectives:
- Empowerment: Aims to provide modern education to tribal students to enhance their competitiveness and integration into the broader society.
- Higher Education: Will facilitate access to higher education and promote social development in the region.
- Facilities: The university will offer advanced facilities, including those for engineering, to boost employability.
- Industrial Integration: The university will contribute to the industrial development of Nashik and improve employment prospects for tribal students.
Context:
- Existing Institutions: India currently has two central government tribal universities:
- Indira Gandhi National Tribal University
- Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh
- Reserved Seats: Tribal students also have reserved seats in IITs, IIMs, and other central and state-run universities.
Maharashtra:
- Capital: Mumbai
- Chief minister: Eknath Shinde
- Governor: C. P. Radhakrishnan
Ministry of Steel Hosts “Greening Steel: Pathway to Sustainability” Event in New Delhi
On September 2024, the Ministry of Steel (MOS) successfully hosted the event titled “Greening Steel: Pathway to Sustainability” held at C.D. Deshmukh Hall, India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi.
Event Details
- Date: September 10, 2024
- Location: C.D. Deshmukh Hall, India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi
- Hosted by: Ministry of Steel (MoS)
Key Participants
- Chief Guest: Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy
- Role: Released the report titled “Greening the Steel Sector in India: Roadmap and Action Plan”
- Technical Session Chair: Sanjay Singh, Former Secretary, MoS
- Session Title: “Leadership and Innovation: Driving the Green Steel Transition”
Ministry of Steel (MoS) Overview
- Union Minister: H.D. Kumaraswamy
- Constituency: Mandya, Karnataka
- Minister of State: Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma
- Constituency: Narasapuram, Andhra Pradesh
Ministry of Corporate Affairs Implements Key Provisions of the Competition (Amendment) Act, 2023
On September, 2024, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) notified certain provisions of the Competition (Amendment) Act, 2023 to revamp the merger control regime with effect from September, 2024.
The aim of these changes is to streamline the merger review process and introduce new standards to assess notifiability of transactions. The amendments include Deal Value Threshold (DVT); reduced review timelines for the Competition Commission of India (CCI); derogation for stock market transactions; codification of green channel rules; and new exemption criteria for minority acquisitions, incremental acquisitions, demergers, and acquisitions by financial intermediaries, etc.
Objectives
- Streamline the merger review process.
- Introduce new standards for assessing transaction notifiability.
Key Amendments
- Deal Value Threshold (DVT):
- Regulatory clearance required from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) for deals exceeding ₹2,000 crore if the target entity has “Substantial Business Operations (SBOs) in India.”
- Review Timelines:
- Reduced from 210 days to 150 days.
- Exemptions:
- Transactions involving entities with assets below ₹450 crore or turnover under ₹1,250 crore are exempt from CCI approval.
- Stock Market Transactions:
- Parties to open market transactions are exempt from the standstill obligation (prohibits actions to consummate transactions before CCI approval).
- Green Channel and Exemptions:
- Codification of green channel rules.
- New exemption criteria for minority acquisitions, incremental acquisitions, demergers, and acquisitions by financial intermediaries.
- Non-Combination Transactions:
- Transactions where the value of assets or turnover of the enterprise being acquired, controlled, merged, or amalgamated in India does not exceed ₹450 crore and ₹1,250 crore, respectively, are not considered a combination under Section 5 of the Competition Act, 2022.
Ministry of Corporate Affairs: Officeholder: Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister)
Prime Minister Chairs First Governing Board Meeting of Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
On September 2024, Narendra Modi, Prime Minister (PM) of India chaired the 1st meeting of the Governing Board of Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) at his residence in New Delhi, Delhi.
- The meeting focused on India’s Science and Technology landscape and discussion on redesigning of research and development (R&D) programmes.
- During the meeting, several programs were introduced to bolster India’s scientific capabilities and global competitiveness.
Meeting Focus
- Discussed India’s Science and Technology landscape.
- Reviewed and redesigned research and development (R&D) programmes.
- Introduced new initiatives to enhance India’s scientific capabilities and global competitiveness.
Members of the Governing Body
- Vice President: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education
- Member Secretary: Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India
- Ex-officio Members:
- Member (Science), NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India)
- Secretary, Department of Science & Technology
- Secretary, Department of Biotechnology
- Secretary, Department of Scientific & Industrial Research
- Secretary, Department of Higher Education
Introduction of ANRF Centre of Excellence (ACE)
Overview
- Objective: To establish world-class research centers with substantial funding and cutting-edge infrastructure for ambitious scientific research.
- Focus: Nurturing fundamental research and sustaining a vibrant R&D ecosystem throughout India.
Key Points
- Enhancement of Global Competitiveness:
- ANRF’s programs will focus on solution-oriented research in key areas such as:
- Solar cells
- Health technology
- Smart infrastructure
- Sustainable agriculture
- Translational Research:
- Emphasis on industry-aligned translational research and advancement in fundamental knowledge.
- Alignment with National Goals:
- Initiatives are aligned with India’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047, integrating global best practices.
About Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
- Role: Apex body providing high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India.
- Function: Operates under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST).
- Establishment: Formed as per the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO)- Dr. Abhay Karandikar (Secretary, Department of Science of Technology (DST))
- Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi
Banking news
Aviva India Launches ‘Aviva Signature Increasing Income Plan’ for Retirees
Aviva Life Insurance Company India Limited (Aviva India) has introduced the Aviva Signature Increasing Income Plan, a non-linked, non-participating life insurance savings plan aimed at providing a growing income stream for retirees. This plan is designed to help customers maintain their purchasing power in retirement and keep up with inflation.
Key Features:
- Increasing Income: The plan offers a 15% increase in income every third policy year to address inflation and rising living expenses.
- Guaranteed Whole-Life Income: It ensures financial security by providing a guaranteed income until the policyholder reaches age 100.
- Family Protection: In the event of the policyholder’s death during the premium term, the plan guarantees income to the family and covers future premiums.
- Premium Return: At the end of the payout period, policyholders receive 105% of the total premiums paid.
- Tax Benefits: The plan qualifies for tax benefits under Sections 80C and 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- Loan Facility: Loans are available under this plan once it acquires surrender value.
About Aviva Life Insurance Company India Limited:
- Joint Venture: Between Aviva plc (UK) and Dabur Invest Corp. (India).
- Managing Director & CEO: Asit Rath.
- Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana.
- Established: 2002.
Appointment News
Mohammad Tayyab Ikram to be Re-Elected Unopposed as FIH President for Second Term
Mohammad Tayyab Ikram is poised to be re-elected as the President of the Fédération Internationale de Hockey (FIH) for a second term. Serving as the 13th President of FIH since 2022, Ikram, who represents Hong Kong and Macau, is the sole candidate for the position.
Key Points:
- Unopposed Election: Ikram will be re-elected unopposed, marking the first time in FIH history that a President is re-elected without any competition.
- Current Role: Ikram has been serving as FIH President since 2022.
About International Hockey Federation (FIH):
- President- Mohammad Tayyab Ikram
- Headquarters – Lausanne, Switzerland
- Founded – 1924
Defence news
Exercise Kakadu 2024: Indian Navy Joins Biennial Regional Maritime Drills in Darwin
Exercise Kakadu 2024, the 16th edition of the biennial exercise led by Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and supported by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is being held in Darwin, Australia from September 7-20, 2024.
- The Indian Navy(IN)’s P8I aircraft, led by Captain Ajay Kanwar, has arrived in Darwin, Australia, to participate in Ex Kakadu 2024.
- Ex Kakadu 2024 is being held under the theme “Regional Cooperation through Trusted and Proven Partnerships
- Led by: Royal Australian Navy (RAN) with support from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF)
- Indian Navy Participation: P8I aircraft led by Captain Ajay Kanwar
Theme: Theme: “Regional Cooperation through Trusted and Proven Partnerships”
Exercise Kakadu:
- Inception:
- Started: 1993
- Significance: Flagship regional international engagement activity of the RAN
- Previous Edition:
- 15th Edition: Held in 2022 at Darwin and the Northern Australian Exercise Area (NAXA)
Exercise Kakadu 2024 Details
- Participation:
- Over 3,000 personnel from 32 nations
- Includes 13 warships, a submarine, and over 10 aircraft (including maritime patrol units and unmanned systems)
- Objectives:
- Strengthen relationships and improve interoperability among nations’ armed forces
- Integrate international partners in all aspects of maritime operations
- Focus Areas:
- Multinational control element at RAAF base
- Comprehensive coverage of air, sea, and subsurface operations
- Includes anti-submarine warfare and air defense exercises
Indian Navy’s Role
- Aircraft: P8I
- Capabilities: Long-range anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions
Ranks and reports news
Switzerland crowned as best country in the world
In a new survey which is called “Best countries for 2024” it is found that Switzerland was crowned as the best country in the world. Switzerland achieved this fate in the third year successively. This survey has included 89 countries for the results.
- Top Rank: Switzerland is ranked as the best country in the world for the third consecutive year.
- Survey Scope: Included 89 countries.
Categories Evaluated:
- Adventure
- Agility
- Heritage
- Entrepreneurship
- Quality of Life
- Cultural Purpose
Key Highlights:
- Switzerland: Maintains the top position.
- Top 5 Countries:
- Switzerland
- Japan
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- European Dominance: European countries dominate the top 25 rankings.
- Asian Representation: Japan, Singapore, China, and South Korea are the only Asian countries in the top 25.
- Middle-Eastern Presence: The United Arab Emirates (17th) and Qatar (25th) are the only Middle-Eastern countries in the top 25.
Why Switzerland Tops the List:
- Economically stable
- Exceptional quality of life
- Renowned education system
- One of the safest countries
- Strong commitment to sustainability
India’s Performance:
- Current Ranking: 33rd (dropped three positions from last year).
- Best Categories:
- Movers: 7th (measures resilience and adaptability)
- Heritage: 10th
- Weakest Categories:
- Social Purpose
- Adventure
Top 10 Countries:
- Switzerland
- Japan
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- Sweden
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- New Zealand
- Denmark
Sports news
Paralympic Champions: New Faces of Voter Inspiration for Persons with Disabilities
In a momentous event at Nirvachan Sadan, the Election Commission of India (ECI) celebrated the achievements of two remarkable Paralympic archers while simultaneously enlisting their support to inspire voters across the nation. Ms. Sheetal Devi and Shri Rakesh Kumar, fresh from their bronze medal victory in Archery at the Paris Summer Paralympics 2024, were honoured for their sporting prowess and appointed as national icons for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
Felicitation Ceremony
- Event Location: Nirvachan Sadan
- Hosted by:
- Shri Rajiv Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)
- Shri Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioner (EC)
- Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Election Commissioner (EC)
- Honored Guests: Ms. Sheetal Devi (accompanied by her mother, Ms. Shakti Devi) and coaches Ms. Abhilasha Chaudhary and Mr. Kuldeep Kumar.
Recognition of Achievements
- Athletes:
- Ms. Sheetal Devi & Shri Rakesh Kumar
- Achievement: Bronze Medal in Archery at the Paris Summer Paralympics 2024
Appointment of National Icons
- Ms. Sheetal Devi:
- Reaffirmed as the ECI National Icon for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)
- Original appointment: March 16, 2024
- Shri Rakesh Kumar:
- Newly appointed as ECI National Icon for PwDs
Profiles of the Champions
- Ms. Sheetal Devi:
- Age: 17
- Notable Achievements:
- 2023 Asian Para Games: Gold Medals in Individual and Mixed Team events
- 2023 World Archery Para Championship: Silver Medal
- Multiple accolades in Asian Para Championship
- Shri Rakesh Kumar:
- Notable Achievements:
- 2024 Paris Paralympics: Competitor in Archery
- 2021 Tokyo Paralympics: Competitor in Archery
- 2023 World Archery Para Championship: Gold Medal in Mixed Team Event
- 2022-23 Asian Para Games: Gold Medal (Team), Silver Medals (Individual, Men’s Team)
Moeen Ali Retires from International Cricket
England cricketer Moeen Ali has announced his retirement from international cricket. His last appearance for England was during the ICC Men’s Twenty20 (T20) World Cup 2024, which was co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States in June 2024.
Career Highlights:
- International Debut: 2014, against the West Indies.
- Formats Played:
- One Day Internationals (ODIs): 138 matches
- T20 Internationals (T20Is): 92 matches
- Tests: 68 matches
- Career Stats:
- Total Runs Scored: 6,678
- Centuries: 8
- Fifties: 28
- Total Wickets: 366
- Test Wickets: 204 (making him the third-best England spinner in Test history, behind Derek Underwood (297) and Graeme Swann (255))
- Total Runs Scored: 6,678
England:
- Capital: London
- Currency: Pound sterling
- Prime minister: Sir Keir Rodney Starmer
Scheme news
Cabinet Approves ₹2,000-Crore ‘Mission Mausam’
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved ‘Mission Mausam’ on September 11, 2024, with an outlay of ₹2,000 crore over two years. The mission, led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, aims to enhance research and development in atmospheric sciences and improve weather forecasting and management. The initiative will integrate advanced observation systems, high-performance computing, and technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to set new standards in weather prediction.
Approval and Funding
- Date of Approval: September 11, 2024
- Chair: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Outlay: ₹2,000 crore over two years
- Led by: Ministry of Earth Sciences
Objectives and Focus Areas
- Primary Goals:
- Enhance accuracy in weather forecasting.
- Advance modelling techniques.
- Improve radar and satellite technology.
- Provide precise agromet forecasts.
- Implementing Bodies:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology
- National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting
Technology Integration
Advanced Technologies:
- Incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
- Deployment of cutting-edge observational systems.
Recent Context and Challenges
- Forecasting Challenges:
- Example: Unprecedented rainfall in Delhi on June 28, 2024, revealed limitations in forecasting single-day rain events.
- Current Accuracy Levels:
- IMD’s recent accuracy:
- 80% for daily rainfall forecasts (last five years)
- 60% for five-day forecasts
- Improved to 88% in July due to enhanced data and decision support systems.
- IMD’s recent accuracy:
Expected Outcomes
- Forecast Improvements:
- Enhanced accuracy in weather advisories and nowcast technologies.
- Targeted advancements in forecasting accuracy over the next 5-6 years.
- System Upgrades:
- Enhanced observational systems, including radars and automatic weather stations.
- Improved data quality and forecasting capabilities.
Important days
National Forest Martyrs Day: September 11
National Forest Martyrs Day is observed annually on September 11 to honor the courage and sacrifice of Forest Guards, Foresters, Range Forest Officers (RFOs), and other personnel who have lost their lives while safeguarding India’s forests and wildlife.
Key Points:
- Official Recognition: In 2013, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) officially designated September 11 as National Forest Martyrs Day.
- Historical Background: The day commemorates the Khejarli Massacre of 1730, which occurred in Khejarli, Rajasthan, where local communities sacrificed their lives to protect sacred trees from being felled by the then ruling Maharaja.
About the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC):
- Union Minister: Bhupender Yadav (Constituency: Alwar, Rajasthan)
- Minister of State (MOS): Kirti Vardhan Singh (Constituency: Gonda, Uttar Pradesh)