National news:
- “India Bans Onion Exports Until March 2024 to Stabilize Domestic Prices”
The Indian government imposed a ban on onion exports until March 2024.
The move aims to ensure an adequate supply of onions in the domestic market and control price fluctuations.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues the notification, effective immediately.
Exceptions for ongoing shipments: Consignments already loaded on ships or vessels anchored for loading before the notification is allowed until January 5, 2024.
Special cases: Export permission may be granted to other countries based on their government’s requests, as approved by the Indian government.
2. “President Droupadi Murmu Commends Nation’s Sporting Achievers at Rashtrapati Bhavan Interaction”
President Droupadi Murmu meets accomplished sportspersons honored for their achievements in national and international championships.
The interaction takes place at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, highlighting the significance of their dedication and excellence.
President Murmu acknowledges the athletes’ unwavering commitment, passion, and individual prowess, elevating India’s reputation in global sports.
Emphasizes that the athletes’ journey is not only about personal victories but also about inspiring the dreams of all Indians.
Anticipates the nation’s keen interest in the performance of Indian athletes at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics.
3. “Ministry of Textiles to Host ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ in Mumbai to Celebrate Handloom Culture and Fitness”
Ministry of Textiles announces the nation’s largest ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ in Mumbai on Sunday.
The event aims to showcase diverse regional styles of wearing saris, promoting handloom culture and fostering the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local.’
Women from across the country are invited to participate, creating a tapestry of diversity and strengthening the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’
Minister of State for Textiles Darshana Jardosh and Lok Sabha MP Poonam Mahajan will jointly flag off the Mumbai edition at MMRDC Ground.
The Walkathon also seeks to raise awareness about fitness among women, aligning with the broader theme of a healthy lifestyle.
Union Minister of Textile in India – Shri Piyush Goyal.
4. “Government Approves Additional Rs 2,500 Crore for Extension of Interest Equalisation Scheme on Export Credit”
The Union Cabinet approves an additional allocation of Rs 2,500 crore for the continuation of the Interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and Post-Shipment Rupee Export Credit.
The extension of the scheme is valid until June 30 next year and aims to support exporters in identified sectors and all MSME manufacturer exporters.
The Interest Equalisation Scheme facilitates access to pre and post-shipment Rupee export credit at competitive rates, crucial for international competitiveness in the export sector.
Launched in April 2015 for 5 years, the scheme has seen extensions, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, with ongoing support and fund allocations.
The current scheme provides a 2% interest equalization benefit on pre and post-shipment Rupee export credit to merchant and manufacturer exporters of 410 identified tariff lines and 3% to all MSME manufacturer exporters.
5. “PMFME Scheme Embraces “One District One Product” Approach to Boost Local Food Processing, Says Prahlad Singh Patel”
The Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme is designed to offer financial, technical, and business support for the establishment of micro food processing enterprises in India.
Operational for five years until 2024-25, the scheme has a budget of ten thousand crore rupees, aiming to assist two lakh micro food processing enterprises.
Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Prahlad Singh Patel, highlights the scheme’s focus on the “One District One Product” approach to promote local products in the food processing sector.
The scheme provides a framework for value chain development and aligns support infrastructure to enhance the overall ecosystem.
The PMFME scheme plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of micro-food processing enterprises and contributing to the development of the food processing sector in the country.
6. “Mahua Moitra Expelled from Lok Sabha in Cash-for-Query Scandal; Opposition Walks Out Amid Ethics Committee Report Controversy”
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra was expelled from Lok Sabha over unethical conduct in the Cash-for-Query matter.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi moved a motion based on the Ethics Committee report recommending Moitra’s expulsion.
Speaker Om Birla allows discussion and emphasizes the need for Members to uphold the dignity of Parliament and democracy.
Congress MP Manish Tewari questions the lack of time given to study the report and objects to the House acting as judge and jury.
The speaker clarifies the House is not a court; the opposition demands more time for Moitra to express her views on the Ethics Committee report.
TMC members request Moitra to speak; the Speaker cites precedent from 2005 when similar requests were denied.
TMC’s Kalyan Banerjee questions why businessman Darshan Hiranandani was not examined by the Ethics Committee.
BJP MPs Hina Gavit and Aparajita Sarangi support the expulsion, citing serious allegations of bribery and misuse of parliamentary privilege.
House adopts the motion to accept the Ethics Committee report with a voice vote; the opposition staged a walkout.
The Ethics Committee investigated allegations that Moitra accepted bribes to target the Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in her parliamentary questions.
7. “The 62nd Network Planning Group Meeting under PM GatiShakti focuses on four infrastructure projects valued at Rs 15,000 crore.”
Special Secretary (Logistics) in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Sumita Dawra, emphasizes the projects’ crucial role in nation-building, particularly highlighting the importance of multi-modal connectivity.
The projects are seen as powerful tools for inclusive growth, with a special focus on historically neglected areas.
Two railways and two roadways projects are discussed during the meeting, with execution planned in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Mizoram, and West Bengal.
The initiative aligns with the broader goals of PM GatiShakti, aiming to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across the country.
8. “Over 10,000 Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras Opened Nationwide, Benefitting 10 to 12 Lakh People Daily: Union Minister Bhagwat Khuba”
The government announced the opening of 10,006 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras across India, as stated by Minister of State Bhagwat Khuba.
Approximately 10 to 12 lakh people benefit from these Kendras daily, providing access to affordable medicines.
Prices of medicines at Jan Aushadhi Kendras are significantly lower, ranging from 50% to 90% less than branded medicines.
The reduced prices result in estimated savings of about 7,400 crore rupees to citizens during the current fiscal year.
The initiative aims to make essential medications more accessible and affordable for the public, contributing to healthcare affordability and savings.
9. “Home Minister Amit Shah Comments ABVP’s Role in National Development at 69th National Convention Inaugural Event”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praises the significant role played by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) in the country’s development since its establishment.
Speaking at the inaugural event of the 69th National Convention of ABVP in Delhi, Shah acknowledges ABVP’s active involvement in language movements, education initiatives, and cultural preservation.
Describing ABVP as the largest organization in the education system, Shah highlights its efforts not only to address imperfections in education but also in character building.
Shah emphasizes the commitment of ABVP to contribute to the nation’s growth and development, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for India to become a global leader in the next 25 years.
The Home Minister asserts that the last 10 years have witnessed a shift from corruption, nepotism, and casteism to a focus on the country’s progress and development.
Shah assures the youth of the country that significant positive changes have been made, paving the way for a golden future.
Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP is a right-wing all-India student organization affiliated with the Hindu nationalist organization Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
10. “PM Modi Inaugurates Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit, Encourages Investment in the State”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the two-day Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.
The summit aims to position Uttarakhand as a prominent investment destination, providing a golden opportunity for investors.
PM Modi highlights rapid development in the road, rail, and air sectors in Uttarakhand, making it conducive for industrial groups to invest.
Emphasis on untapped potential in the state for every investor, particularly in the tourism sector, with a call to establish Uttarakhand as a preferred destination for weddings.
Prime Minister underscores the importance of strengthening the local supply chain and supporting MSMEs for economic development.
PM Modi envisions India emerging as the third-largest economy globally during his third term and urges investors to contribute to capacity building.
Launches the House of Himalayas Brand, promoting the work of women’s self-help groups in Uttarakhand and aiming to make 2 crore rural women financially empowered.
PM Modi engages with the local community through a roadshow and visits an exhibition as part of the Global Investors Summit.
Thousands of investors and industry groups from India and abroad participated in the summit, showcasing the state’s investor-friendly policies.
Capital of Uttarakhand – Dehradun, Gairsin.
Chief Minister – Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Governor – Gurmit Singh.
11. “UNICEF and India Launch “Green Rising” Initiative at COP28 to Mobilize Youth for Climate Action”
UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited, in collaboration with India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, unveils the “Green Rising” initiative at COP28 in Dubai.
The global initiative, along with the “Green Rising India Alliance,” involves UNICEF, Generation Unlimited, and a diverse network of public, private, and youth partners.
The primary objective is to mobilize millions of young people globally, encouraging their active participation in green initiatives to address and adapt to climate change impacts.
“Green Rising” focuses on engaging youth for impactful environmental actions at the grassroots level, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change’s severe impacts.
In India, the YuWaah campaign aims to involve youth in driving impactful environmental actions inspired by the Mission Life movement.
COP28 witnesses historic declarations on food systems, health, renewable energy, and efficiency, with significant financial pledges for climate-related projects.
Over 83 billion dollars mobilized within the first seven days of COP28, including 3.5 billion dollars for the Green Climate Fund and commitments from Multilateral Development Banks.
The UAE launches the 30 billion dollars catalytic fund, ALTERRA, with the aim of mobilizing an additional 250 billion dollars for global climate action.
The World Bank announces a 9 billion dollars annual increase for 2024 and 2025 to support climate-related projects.
These financial commitments demonstrate a strong global commitment to addressing the challenges of climate change and supporting climate-related initiatives.
12. United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund
The United Nations established UNICEF to meet the emergency needs of children in post-war Europe and China.
Catherine Mary Russell CEO of UNICEF.
Founded in 11 December 1946.
Headquarters – New York.
13. “India Poised to Be Active Contributor to AI Evolution, States Prime Minister Modi”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserts that India’s vibrant start-up ecosystem and talented workforce position the country as an active contributor to the evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
In a LinkedIn post ahead of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit, PM Modi highlights India’s scalable, secure, sustainable, and replicable solutions in the AI domain.
The Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiative in India is cited as a prime example of pioneering efforts in the AI space.
PM Modi emphasizes the transformative impact of AI across sectors such as technology, innovation, healthcare, education, and agriculture.
The last decade has seen rapid advancements in technology, with mobile and internet penetration and scalable models contributing to digital inclusion in India.
14. “Prime Minister invites technology enthusiasts, innovators, and stakeholders worldwide to join the upcoming GPAI Summit in New Delhi from 12 to 14 December 2023”.
GPAI is a multi-stakeholder initiative launched in June 2020, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice on AI through research and applied activities.
The membership of GPAI has grown from 15 to 28 member countries and the European Union, highlighting the global collaboration in advancing AI-related priorities.
15. “Union Minister Scindia: India Aims for 4,500 Vande Bharat Trains by 2047, Fastest Growing Railway System Globally”
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlights India’s rapidly growing railway system, claiming it to be the fastest in the world.
The construction of the world’s highest railway bridge in Jammu and Kashmir is underway, and the first section of the Bullet Train is set to start within three years.
Currently, 23 Vande Bharat trains are operational, with a goal to have 4,500 Vande Bharat trains running across the country by 2047.
The Railway budget has seen a substantial increase from 29 thousand crore rupees in 2013-14 to 2 lakh 40 thousand crore rupees.
The government aims to reduce carbon emissions from trains to net zero in the coming years, focusing on sustainability.
The period from 2014 marked a new phase with a special focus on infrastructure development, and PM Gatishakti since 2021 emphasizes integrated planning and coordinated implementation of connectivity projects.
A 10 Lakh crore Capital expenditure project is underway, reflecting a significant investment in infrastructure.
The development focus has been extended to historically neglected regions, including Jammu and Kashmir and Northeastern states, making them centers of national development.
Ayodhya airport is expected to be fully operational by the end of the month, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to inaugurate it.
International news:
16. “Union Minister Bhupender Yadav Proposes Clear Path for Action on Climate Finance at COP28”
Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, emphasizes the need for immediate and collective action in defining Climate Finance and addressing resource disparities among developed and developing nations.
Minister calls for a clear and universally agreed-upon definition of Climate Finance to foster trust and transparency in tackling climate change effectively.
Citing discrepancies in estimating climate finance, the minister highlights the imperative need for a comprehensive definition, considering climate specificity, new and additional flows, and grant-based resources at highly concessional terms.
Addressing resource inadequacy, the minister urges developed countries to significantly scale up provisions through financial mechanisms and innovative instruments.
Emphasizes the importance of technology access, citing offshore wind and battery storage as crucial for developing countries to fulfill their commitments under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.
Proposes a framework for reporting climate finance flows with mutually agreed standard formats, detailed disaggregation, ensuring consistency, predictability, and transparency.
The call for action extends beyond questions to a solution-oriented phase, expressing hope that the suggestions will be considered in subsequent dialogues.
COP28: COP stands for Conference of the Parties, referring to the annual meetings of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These conferences bring together representatives from various countries to discuss and negotiate global efforts to address climate change.
17. “Mission LiFE Showcases India’s Leadership in Climate Initiatives at COP28”
India assumes a leading role in addressing climate change with the “Youth Actions on Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)” event at COP28’s India Pavilion.
The event emphasizes the pivotal role of youth in adopting eco-friendly lifestyles for combating climate change.
Co-hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), UNICEF, and the International Energy Agency, the event brings together key stakeholders, including government officials and youth representatives.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav highlights the interconnectedness of technology and environmental consciousness, stressing the vital role of youth in sustainable solutions.
Minister introduces the “Mission LiFE” initiative aiming to reduce global CO2 emissions by 2 billion tons.
The National Youth Statement developed by over 130 Indian youth from 25 states is commended, contributing to the Global Youth Statement presented at the Youth Climate Championship.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) acknowledges India’s efforts, presenting a report titled “LiFE Lessons from India” highlighting the potential for behavioral change to drive global energy transitions.
IEA’s analysis indicates the potential for substantial generational reductions in CO2 emissions, emphasizing the urgency of greater climate action.
UNICEF commends India’s “In Our LiFEtime” campaign, actively involving young people in climate discussions, and introduces the Meri LiFE app promoting pro-planet choices.
The “In Our LiFEtime” campaign, initiated during COP27, invites global youth to submit climate action ideas aligning with sustainable and scalable lifestyles.
18. “Indian Social Activist Nikhil Dey Named International Anti-Corruption Champion by US State Department”
Indian social activist Nikhil Dey has been named the International Anti-Corruption Champion by the US State Department.
Dey is recognized for his significant support of social movements opposing corruption in Indian government welfare programs.
His efforts as a co-founder of Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) contributed to anti-corruption and transparency reforms in India.
Dey’s work includes advocating for transparency, accountability, public audits, and participatory democracy.
His contributions have assisted the state of Rajasthan in establishing public policies promoting accountability and transparency.
US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, congratulates Nikhil Dey, stating that the United States stands with champions like him working for transparency, rule of law, and justice.
Capital of USA – Washington D.C
Currency – Dollar.
Language – English.
President – Joe Biden.
Business and Economy :
19. “RBI Maintains Repo Rate at 6.5%; Proposes UPI Transaction Limit Hike to Rs 5 Lakh at Hospitals and Educational Institutions”
RBI keeps the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.5% in its monetary review meeting, marking the fifth consecutive status quo by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
Standing Deposit Facility rate remains at 6.25%, Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate, and Bank Rate at 6.75%.
RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attributes the decision to maintain status quo to declining inflation and projects real GDP growth for 2023-24 at 7%.
Real GDP growth projections for Q1, Q2, and Q3 of 2024-25 are 6.7%, 6.5%, and 6.4% respectively, with risks evenly balanced.
RBI proposes a hike in the UPI transaction limit at hospitals and educational institutions from one lakh rupees to 5 lakhs.
While the global economy shows signs of slowdown, the Indian economy exhibits resilience and momentum, according to Governor Das.
Indian economy’s fundamentals remain strong with healthy balance sheets of banks and corporates, fiscal consolidation, manageable external balance, and robust forex reserves.
MPC, with a majority of 5 out of 6 members, focuses on withdrawing accommodation to align inflation with the target while supporting growth.
Repo Rate is the rate at which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends money to commercial banks or financial institutions in India against government securities. The current Repo Rate in 2023 is 6.50%.
20. “World’s 50% Digital Transactions Took Place from India, Says Union Minister Dr V.K. Singh”
Minister of State for Road, Transport, and Highways Dr V.K. Singh highlights that 50% of the world’s digital transactions occurred in India.
Dr Singh mentions a significant transformation in the digitization system over the last nine years.
The volume of transactions in the country’s digital payment system has increased by over 1000%.
Dr Singh notes that India has the lowest internet data tariff in the world.
The government has taken steps to promote the growth of the steel industry, with India becoming the 2nd largest steel producer globally, growing by 5.5% compared to the global production of 4.2%.
Obituary:
21. “PM Modi Mourns the Loss of Kannada Film Legend Leelavathi, Hails Her Versatile Contributions to Cinema”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses sorrow over the passing of iconic Kannada film personality Leelavathi.
Describes Leelavathi as a true cinema icon, acknowledging her versatile acting and diverse roles that left a lasting impact on the silver screen.
PM Modi pays tribute to the legendary actress, stating that her remarkable talent will be remembered and admired.
Extends condolences to the family and admirers of Leelavathi in a social media post.
The nation mourns the loss of a prominent figure in Kannada cinema.
22. “Veteran Actor Naeem Sayyed, Popularly Known as Junior Mehmood, Passes Away at 67”
Veteran actor Naeem Sayyed, widely known as Junior Mehmood, succumbs to stomach cancer at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 67.
Junior Mehmood gained popularity for his roles in iconic films such as Do Raaste, Caravan, Haathi Mere Saathi, and Mera Naam Joker.
Beginning his career as a child artiste with Mohabbat Zindagi Hai and Naunihal in the 1960s, he went on to work in over 250 films in seven languages.
Over a four-decade-long career, he left a lasting impact with hits like Brahmachari, Kati Patang, Hare Rama Hare Krishna, and Aaj Ka Arjun.
Junior Mehmood’s contribution to the film industry, spanning multiple languages, is remembered as he leaves behind a rich legacy of cinematic work.
Sports:
23. “Khelo India Para Games: Sports Ministry Ensures Boost of Medical Facilities”
The Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry ensure comprehensive medical coverage for athletes participating in the Khelo India Para Games starting from December 10.
Medical coverage includes emergency services, on-site medical teams, and access to necessary healthcare facilities.
The Khelo India division under the Ministry takes measures to ensure para athletes receive requisite medical support for safe participation and addressing health concerns during the games.
National Centre of Sports Science and Research, Director-in-Charge Colonel Bibhu Nayak emphasizes the Ministry’s commitment to athlete well-being during the Para Games
24. “Ahmedabad Defenders to Face Italy’s Sir Sicoma Perugia in FIVB Volleyball Club World Championship 2023 in Bengaluru”
In the ongoing FIVB Volleyball Club World Championship 2023 in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad Defenders will face Italy’s Sir Sicoma Perugia in a Pool A match.
Another match in Pool B will feature Turkey’s Halkbank Spor Kulubu against Brazil’s Sada Cruzeiro Volei.
Pool A includes Ahmedabad Defenders, Itambe Minas, and Sir Sicoma Perugia, while Pool B consists of Sada Cruzeiro Volei, Suntory Sunbirds, and Halkbank Spor Kulubu.
The best two teams from each pool will advance to the semifinals.
The FIVB Volleyball Club World Championship 2023 began on December 6 at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru and will conclude on Sunday.
