National news
PM Modi’s Address at Economic Times World Leaders Forum
Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum in New Delhi, highlighted India’s remarkable economic growth and global ambitions.
- Economic Growth: PM Modi noted that India’s economy has grown by 90% over the last decade, far exceeding the global growth rate of 35%. He credited this to sustained reforms and emphasized the government’s commitment to continued economic expansion.
- Governance Transformation: He outlined the government’s approach of “Reform, Perform, and Transform,” highlighting that 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty, contributing to the creation of a “Neo-Middle Class” driving India’s progress.
- Infrastructure Development: The Prime Minister underscored major infrastructure initiatives, including new Vande Bharat trains and metro expansions in cities like Pune, Thane, and Bangalore, aimed at improving the ease of living for citizens.
- Global Aspirations: PM Modi discussed India’s goals to become a global manufacturing hub, support for MSMEs, and the success of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. He also emphasized investments in education, health, and innovation.
- Sustainability and Global Leadership: India’s leadership in green energy, particularly in green hydrogen production and renewable energy, was highlighted. PM Modi also spoke on promoting organic farming to position India as a global food basket.
- Tourism and Inclusive Development: Tourism was identified as a key growth area, and PM Modi emphasized India’s commitment to inclusive global development, particularly for the Global South, during its G-20 Presidency.
Prime Minister Modi Releases Commemorative Stamp for 75 Years of Supreme Court
Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative stamp celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Supreme Court of India during the District Judges Conference at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event was attended by Chief Justice Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, Minister of Law & Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, and other dignitaries.
Significance of the Stamp: The stamp honors the Supreme Court’s vital role in upholding justice, the rule of law, and safeguarding citizens’ rights since its establishment on January 28, 1950. It marks a significant milestone in India’s judicial history.
Supreme Court of India – Key Points:
- Establishment: Established on January 28, 1950, as the highest judicial authority and final court of appeal in India.
- Chief Justice: The first Chief Justice was Harilal Jekisundas Kania.
- Jurisdiction: The Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdictions, handling constitutional, civil, and criminal matters.
- Composition: Comprised of the Chief Justice of India and up to 33 other judges, appointed by the President.
- Location: The Supreme Court is located in New Delhi.
- Functions: Ensures the protection of fundamental rights, resolves disputes between states and the central government, and interprets the Constitution.
- Significance: Plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and shaping legal and constitutional precedents in India.
- Judicial Review: Holds the power of judicial review to ensure laws and executive actions conform to the Constitution.
Department of Posts’ Role: The stamp was issued by the Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications, commemorating the Supreme Court’s enduring legacy of justice and legal integrity over seven and a half decades.
Union Minister Smt Annpurna Devi Launches 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024
The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah was launched at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, marking a significant initiative to enhance nutrition awareness and well-being across India. The event was attended by Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi, Gujarat’s Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, and Gujarat’s Minister of Women and Child Development Smt. Bhanuben Babariya, along with senior officials.
- Nationwide Plantation Drive: The event began with a nationwide plantation drive titled “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” emphasizing the connection between nutrition and environmental sustainability. Key figures, including Union Minister Annpurna Devi, planted fruit-bearing trees at an Anganwadi Centre in Gandhinagar.
- Main Event at Mahatma Mandir: Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of nutrition for developing healthy human resources. Smt. Annpurna Devi emphasized a lifecycle approach to improving child and adolescent health, focusing on the four pillars of Poshan 2.0: good governance, convergence, capacity building, and community participation.
- Keynote Addresses and Scheme Disbursement: Secretary Anil Malik discussed promoting dietary diversity and locally grown foods. The event also featured the distribution of nutri-baskets to pregnant and lactating mothers, annaprashan ceremonies for infants, and the disbursement of benefits under various schemes, including Vahli Dikri Yojna and Widow Pension Scheme.
- Exhibition and Cultural Performances: An exhibition showcased initiatives like the Poshan Tracker and Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, alongside state-specific programs. Cultural performances emphasized the importance of breastfeeding and complementary feeding.
- Focus and Vision: The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 focuses on Anaemia, Growth Monitoring, Complementary Feeding, Technology for Better Governance, and “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.” Smt. Annpurna Devi described Poshan Maah as evolving into a nationwide festival and Jan Andolan, aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Suposhit Bharat.’ The Ministry of Women and Child Development is committed to combating malnutrition and promoting holistic well-being across the country through Mission Poshan 2.0.
Economy news
Moody’s Ratings Upgrades India’s GDP Growth Forecast
On August , 2024, Moody’s Ratings revised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast upward to 7.2% for Calendar Year (CY) 2024, up from the previous estimate of 6.8%, and to 6.6% for CY 2025, compared to the earlier estimate of 6.5%. This update is part of Moody’s August 2024 report on the ‘Global Macro Outlook for 2024-25.’
Key Points:
- Growth Drivers: The increased forecast reflects strong, broad-based growth in India, driven by resilient private consumption and improved business conditions.
- Q1 2024 Performance: The Indian economy demonstrated a Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) growth of 7.8% in Q1 (April-June 2024), despite challenges from strict monetary policies and fiscal consolidation efforts.
- Global Growth Outlook: Moody’s projects global growth to decline to 2.7% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2025, down from 3.0% in 2023.
- Inflation Adjustment: Moody’s has reduced India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation forecast for 2024 to 5.0%, down by 20 basis points from the previous estimate of 5.2%.
About Moody’s Ratings:
- President: Michael West
- Headquarters: New York, USA
- Founded: 1909
Banking news
HDFC Bank’s GIGA: A Financial Suite for Gig Workers
HDFC Bank Limited has launched GIGA, a financial suite designed specifically for gig workers and freelancers in India. This comprehensive program addresses the unique financial needs of the growing gig economy.
Key Features of GIGA:
- Flexible Savings Account:
- Requires a quarterly balance of Rs 10,000 (metro/urban) or Rs 5,000 (semi-urban/rural).
- Offers Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs), Fixed Deposits (FDs), and Recurring Deposits (RDs).
- Includes a GIGA Business Debit Card with cashback and personal accidental death cover up to Rs 10 lakh.
- GIGA Business Credit Card:
- Provides a 55-day interest-free credit period.
- Features accelerated rewards and offers for co-working spaces, upskilling, health & wellness, and gig platform memberships.
- Health Insurance:
- HDFC Ergo offers health insurance with premiums starting at Rs 20 per day for gig workers and their families.
- Retail Asset Products:
- Includes collateral-free business loans, car loans (up to 100% on-road value), two-wheeler loans, and gold loans with quick disbursement.
- Flexible Investment Options:
- Through HDFC Asset Management Company Limited (HDFC AMC), freelancers can use a flexible investment scheduler to invest according to their available funds.
HDFC:
- CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan (27 Oct 2020–)
- Founded: August 1994, Mumbai
- Headquarters: Mumbai
DEA Issues New Regulations for Public Provident Fund and Small Savings Schemes
On August, 2024, the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), under the Ministry of Finance (MoF), announced six new regulations related to investors in the Public Provident Fund (PPF), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), and other Small Savings Schemes (SSS). These regulations will take effect from October 1, 2024.
Key Aspects of the New Regulations:
- Objective: The new rules aim to regularize accounts that were irregularly opened under the National Small Savings (NSS) through Post Offices.
- Categories Covered:
- Irregular NSS Accounts: Guidelines for regularizing accounts that do not comply with standard procedures.
- PPF Accounts Opened in Minors’ Names: Regulations governing accounts opened in the name of minors.
- Multiple PPF Accounts: Rules regarding individuals holding multiple PPF accounts.
- Extension of PPF Accounts by NRIs: Provisions for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) wishing to extend their PPF accounts.
- Sukanya Samriddhi Account (SSA) Initiated by Grandparents: Rules for accounts initiated by grandparents instead of legal guardians.
About the Ministry of Finance (MoF):
- Union Minister: Nirmala Sitharaman (Rajya Sabha, Karnataka)
- Minister of State (MoS): Pankaj Chaudhary (Constituency – Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh)
Appointment news
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Takes Over As AOC-In-C, Central Air Command
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, decorated with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal, assumed the role of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command on September 1. Commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on December 6, 1986, he is an experienced experimental test pilot and a qualified flying instructor with over 3,300 hours of flying experience across various aircraft in the IAF.
About Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit:
- Education: He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College (Bangladesh), and National Defence College.
- Operations and Exercises: Air Marshal Dixit has participated in key operations like Op-Safed Sagar and Op-Rakshak.
- Career: With a career spanning over 37 years, he has held numerous significant field and staff appointments, contributing to the operational readiness and strategic capabilities of the IAF.
SEBI Approves Re-appointment of Nehal Vora as MD & CEO of CDSL
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has confirmed the re-appointment of Nehal Vora as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL). His new term will extend from September 17, 2024.
About Nehal Vora:
- Career Beginnings: Nehal Vora began his career with SEBI in 1996 before moving to DSP Merrill Lynch Limited as Director, Law and Compliance.
- Board Memberships: He is a board member of Indian Clearing Corporation Limited (ICCL) and CDSL.
- Past Roles: Vora has served as the Chief Regulatory Officer (CRO) and as a member of the Executive Leadership Team at BSE Limited (formerly Bombay Stock Exchange). He has also chaired the Cyber Resilience Taskforce of the Affiliate Members Consultative Committee (AMCC) of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
About Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL):
- MD & CEO: Nehal Vora
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Established: 1999
Appointment of Rajwinder Singh Bhatti as DG of CISF
On , 2024, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of Rajwinder Singh Bhatti, a 1990-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Bihar cadre, as the Director General (DG) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). He will assume the role immediately and will serve until his superannuation on September 30, 2025, or until further orders.
Key Details:
- Successor: Rajwinder Singh Bhatti will succeed Anish Dayal Singh, the DG of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), who has been holding the additional charge of DG of CISF since August 2024.
About the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF):
- Director General (DG): Rajwinder Singh Bhatti
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
- Established: 1969
- Under: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
About the Border Security Force (BSF):
- Director General (DG): Daljit Singh Chaudhary
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
- Established: 1965
Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar Assumes Role as Director General of Project Seabird
On August 28, 2024, Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar NM assumed the position of Director General (DG) of Project Seabird. This project is the largest defense infrastructure initiative currently underway at the Karwar Naval Base (INS Kadamba) in Karnataka. He succeeds Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, with the change of command taking place at the Project Seabird Headquarters in New Delhi.
Key Details:
- Previous Role: Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti
- New Role: Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar
- Project: Project Seabird
- Location: Karwar Naval Base, Karnataka
- Headquarters: New Delhi
Background of Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar:
- Commissioned: July 1, 1990
- Specialization: Navigation and Direction
- Award: Nao Sena Medal (NSM) in 2015 for his role in Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) from Yemen’s Aden and Al-Hodeida
Defence News
Launch of Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Pratap’ by Goa Shipyard Limited
On , 2024, Neeta Seth, wife of Sanjay Seth, Minister of State (MoS) for the Ministry of Defence (MoD), launched the Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) named ‘Samudra Pratap’ at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) in Vasco da Gama, Goa. This vessel is the first indigenously built PCV designed and constructed entirely in-house by GSL to meet the specific needs of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
Key Details:
- Vessel Name: Samudra Pratap
- Event Location: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Vasco da Gama, Goa
- Attendees:
- IG Bhisham Sharma, Commander, ICG Region (West)
- IG Homesh Kumar Sharma, Deputy Director General (DDG) (Technical), ICG
- Brajesh Kumar Upadhyaya, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), GSL
Background:
- Contract Details: On June 22, 2021, GSL signed a Rs 583 crore contract to build 2 state-of-the-art PCVs for the ICG.
- Significance: This initiative supports the Government of India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) mission, emphasizing indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities.
HAL and SAFHAL Sign Contract for Aravalli Engine Development
On August, 2024, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a Navaratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Private Limited (SAFHAL) signed a significant airframer contract for the development of a new-generation high-power engine named “Aravalli.”
Key Details:
- Purpose: The Aravalli engine will power the 13-ton Medium Lift class Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both designed and developed by HAL.
- Name Significance: The engine is named after the Aravalli Mountain Range, reflecting India’s ambitions for self-reliance in critical engine technologies.
- SAFHAL: A Joint Venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, SAFHAL focuses on developing new-generation helicopter engines in India.
Contract Signatories:
- S Anbuvelan: CEO, Helicopter Complex, HAL
- Olivier Savin: Director, SAFHAL and EVP, OEM Sales and Marketing, Safran Helicopter Engines
- SK Mehta: Director, SAFHAL and Executive Director (Finance), HAL
Strategic Goals: The collaboration aims to advance India’s capabilities in helicopter engine technology, fostering self-reliance and supporting the development of indigenous defense technologies.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
- Chairman and Managing Director (CMD): C.B. Ananthakrishnan (Additional Charge)
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Founded: 1940
Award News
President Emmanuel Macron Awarded Olympic Order in Gold for Paris 2024 Success
In a ceremony highlighting his significant contributions to the Olympic movement, President Emmanuel Macron of France received the Olympic Order in gold, a prestigious honor awarded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
This recognition was given in acknowledgment of Macron’s steadfast support for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and his dedication to the Olympic ideals of Pierre de Coubertin. Macron’s involvement was crucial in ensuring the success of Paris 2024, symbolizing global unity through sport.
- Support for Paris’s Candidature: Upon his election as President in 2017, Macron immediately championed Paris’s bid for the 2024 Olympics. His support went beyond politics; it was rooted in a personal commitment to the Olympic movement. Macron’s first visit to the IOC headquarters in Lausanne showcased his deep understanding and vision for the Games, recognizing their potential to unite people not just in France, but globally.
- IOC President’s Acknowledgment: IOC President Thomas Bach praised Macron’s dedication, recalling their initial meeting where Macron’s enthusiasm and comprehensive knowledge of the Olympic project were evident. Bach highlighted Macron’s full-hearted embrace of the Games, which played a key role in rallying the French nation around the Olympic cause.
Legendary Animator Hayao Miyazaki Receives Prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award
Hayao Miyazaki, the acclaimed Japanese film director and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, has been awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for 2024, often referred to as “Asia’s Nobel Prize.” This prestigious recognition celebrates Miyazaki’s extraordinary contributions to animation and global culture through his storytelling and artistic vision.
Miyazaki’s Legacy in Animation
Miyazaki’s career, spanning several decades, has produced iconic animated films such as:
- “My Neighbor Totoro”
- “Spirited Away”
- “Princess Mononoke”
- “Howl’s Moving Castle”
- “Ponyo”
- “The Boy and the Heron”
These films are not only celebrated for their stunning animation but also for addressing complex themes like environmental conservation and social harmony. Miyazaki’s ability to present these topics in a way that resonates with both young and adult audiences has cemented his place as a transformative figure in the world of animation.
The Ramon Magsaysay Award
About the Award: Established in 1957, the Ramon Magsaysay Award honors individuals and organizations in Asia who have made impactful contributions to society. Named after Ramon Magsaysay, the third president of the Philippines, the award is recognized for celebrating integrity, governance, and public service.
2024 Recipients: Alongside Miyazaki, the 2024 award recognized two other individuals and one group (names and details not provided). The recipients will be formally honored in a ceremony scheduled for November 2024 in Manila, Philippines.
Agreement News
MoU between Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) and Visa Inc.
The Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Visa Inc. to upskill at least 20,000 Indian youths in tourism-relevant skills It is a three-year partnership worth up to USD 1 million.
Partnership Overview:
- Objective: Upskill at least 20,000 Indian youths in tourism-relevant skills
- Duration: Three-year partnership
- Value: Up to USD 1 million
Key Points:
- Training Scope:
- Geographic Focus: Training will occur in ten states, including Assam, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh (HP), and West Bengal (WB).
- Roles Covered: The initiative targets key positions in the tourism sector, such as:
- Tour guides
- Customer service executives
- Naturalists
- Tandem paragliding pilots
- Goals:
- Enhance Service Experience: Improve the quality of tourism services for visitors.
- Global Tourism Destination: Equip youth with essential skills to boost India’s standing as a major global tourism destination.
Context:
- Tourism Sector Contribution:
- GDP: Over USD 231 billion
- Employment: More than 42 million people employed in 2023
About the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE):
- Minister of State (Independent Charge, IC): Jayant Chaudhary (Rajya Sabha, Uttar Pradesh, UP)
Visa Inc.
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Ryan McInerney
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)
- Established: 1958
CAG of India and Saudi General Court of Audit Sign MoU to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Public Sector Auditing
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the General Court of Audit, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Saudi Arabia) to enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange expertise in the filed of public sector auditing.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Details
- Signatories:
- Girish Chandra Murmu: CAG of India
- Hussam Al-Angari: President of the Saudi General Court of Audit
- Event: The MoU was signed during a bilateral meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Attendees: Suhel Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Joint Training Programs: Financial, performance, and compliance audits.
- Exchange of Audit Manuals and Methodology: Enhancing the technical capabilities of both institutions.
- Capacity Development: Boosting expertise and strengthening the working relationship between the CAG and the Saudi General Court of Audit.
Defence News
Indian Army Launches First Phase of Project NAMAN
On, 2024, the Indian Army (IA) launched the first phase of Project NAMAN, aimed at providing comprehensive support and services to Defence pensioners, veterans, and their families. The launch event was attended by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), and Sunita Dwivedi, President of the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA).
Background:
- In September 2023, the Indian Army’s Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (Adjutant General’s Branch), Common Service Centre (CSC) e-Governance India Limited, and HDFC Bank Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Project NAMAN to establish reception and facilitation centres.
About Project NAMAN:
- Objective: Project NAMAN implements the System for Pension Administration Raksha (SPARSH), a digital pension system to streamline pension-related processes for Defence Pensioners. It aims to create accessible facilitation points for Veterans and Next of Kin (NOK) throughout India.
- Features: The project involves setting up reception and facilitation centres known as CSCs. These centres offer SPARSH-enabled pension services, Government to Citizen (G2C) services, and Business to Consumer (B2C) services for Army Veterans, Pensioners, War Widows, and NOKs.
First Phase Details:
- Establishments: 14 CSCs were inaugurated across India, including in New Delhi, Jalandhar, Leh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Bengdubi, Gorakhpur, Jhansi, Secunderabad, Saugor, Guntur, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore.
- Expansion: The project aims to expand to nearly 200 centres across India over the next 2 to 3 years.
- Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs): VLEs managing each CSC are selected by Local Military Authorities (LMAs) from among veterans or NOKs. CSC e-Governance India Limited provides them with training to deliver services effectively.
- Financial Support: HDFC Bank provides a monthly financial contribution of Rs. 20,000 for the first 12 months to help stabilize and sustain the centres.
About the Indian Army (IA):
- Chief of the Army Staff (COAS): General Upendra Dwivedi
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
- Founded: 1895
Scheme News
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Launches RESET Programme on National Sports Day
On August , 2024, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MoYAS), launched the ‘Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training’ (RESET) Programme in New Delhi, Delhi, coinciding with National Sports Day.
About the RESET Programme:
- Objective: The RESET Programme is designed to support retired athletes by equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for career development and increased employability.
- Pilot Phase: The programme’s pilot phase will be led by the Gwalior-based Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE), offering a hybrid learning model that includes self-paced modules, on-ground training, and internships.
- Purpose: RESET aims to bridge generational gaps by enabling retired athletes to impart their unique skills to aspiring athletes. The programme is targeted at athletes aged 20-50 who have represented India at international or national levels.
- Eligibility: Retired athletes who have won international medals, participated in international events, or received recognition at national or state levels are eligible to apply.
- Training Levels: The programme will offer two levels of training based on educational qualifications:
- Class 12th and above
- Class 11th and below
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MoYAS):
- Union Minister: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya (Lok Sabha constituency – Porbandar, Gujarat)
- Minister of State (MoS): Raksha Khadse (Lok Sabha constituency – Raver, Maharashtra)
Odisha Launches Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) Programme
On August , 2024, the Odisha government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), launched the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) programme to enhance the higher education system in the state.
Key Points:
- MoU Signing: The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Minister of State (Independent Charge) Suryabanshi Suraj.
- Objective: The PM-USHA programme aims to ensure access, equity, and excellence in higher education across Odisha. It is a significant initiative for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
- Focus Areas:
- Infrastructure development
- Teacher training
- Employability enhancement
- Curriculum revamping
- Promoting regional equity and sustainable development
- Upgrading state universities to world-class institutions with 21st-century skills
- Funding Structure:
- The central government will provide Rs 500 crore for the development and infrastructure of higher education institutions in Odisha.
- Funding will be split with the Centre contributing 60% and the state covering 40%.
About Odisha:
- Chief Minister (CM): Mohan Charan Majhi
- Governor: Raghubar Das
- Festivals: Konark Dance Festival, Mahabisuva Sankranti (Pana Sankranti)
- Stadiums: DRIEMS Ground, Kalinga Stadium
Ranks And Reports News
Report on Edible Oil Production by NITI Aayog
On August 2024, Suman Bery, Vice-Chairperson, National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) released report titled “Pathways and Strategies for Accelerating Growth in Edible Oil Towards the Goal of Atmanirbharta”. The report was presented by Dr. Neelam Patel, Senior Advisor (Agriculture), NITI Aayog.
Report Title: “Pathways and Strategies for Accelerating Growth in Edible Oil Towards the Goal of Atmanirbharta”
Released by: Suman Bery, Vice-Chairperson, NITI Aayog
Presented by: Dr. Neelam Patel, Senior Advisor (Agriculture), NITI Aayog
Key Findings and Proposals:
- Projected Supplies:
- 2030: 36.2 million tonnes (MT)
- 2047: 70.2 MT
- Strategic Interventions:
- Oilseed Crop Diversification:
- Projected to increase edible oil production by 20% in 9 states.
- Additional production of 7.36 MT.
- Reduction in import dependence by 2.1 MT.
- Utilization of Rice Fallow Area:
- Utilizing 1/3rd (33%) of rice fallow area in 10 states for oilseed cultivation.
- Expected increase in oilseed production by 3.12 MT.
- Reduction in imports by 1.03 MT.
About NITI Aayog
- Chairperson: Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India)
- Vice-Chairperson: Suman Bery
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
The report outlines a strategic framework aimed at boosting India’s edible oil production to achieve self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imports, aligning with the goal of Atmanirbharta (self-reliance).
Sports news
Preethi Pal Becomes First Indian Woman To Win Two Paralympic Medals In Athletics
At the Paris Paralympics 2024, Indian Para Athlete Preethi Pal achieved a remarkable feat by winning a Bronze medal in the Women’s 200 meters – T35 Final with a personal best time of 30.01 seconds. This victory makes her the first Indian woman track and field para athlete to win two Paralympic medals.
Key Highlights of Preethi Pal’s Achievement:
- Historic Win: Preethi Pal is the first Indian woman para athlete in track and field to secure two Paralympic medals.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Praise: Modi lauded her dedication and described her as an inspiration for India.
- President Droupadi Murmu’s Congratulations: President Murmu celebrated Preethi’s achievement, expressing pride in her performance and hoping it will inspire the youth and enhance sports culture.
Preethi Pal’s Journey:
- Previous Achievements: She qualified for her first Paralympics by winning bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, earlier this year.
- Training Move: After not medaling at the Asian Para Games in China, she relocated her training base to New Delhi, which contributed to her subsequent success.
India’s Overall Performance at Paris 2024 Paralympics:
- Preethi’s Medal: Her bronze was India’s sixth medal at the Games.
- Other Medals:
- Gold: Avani Lekhara (10m air rifle shooting standing, SH1 class)
- Bronze: Mona Agarwal (10m air rifle shooting standing, SH1 class)
- Silver: Manish Narwal (men’s 10m air pistol SH1)
- Bronze: Rubina Francis (women’s 10m air pistol SH1)
Nishad Kumar’s Silver Jump Adds To India’s Medal Haul At Paris Paralympics
At the Paris Paralympics 2024, Indian athlete Nishad Kumar secured a silver medal in the men’s T47 high jump final on September 2. Kumar, who also won silver at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, achieved his season-best jump of 2.04 meters to claim second place. The gold medal was won by Townsend-Roberts of the United States with a jump of 2.08 meters, while Russia’s Georgii Margiev earned the bronze.
Nishad Kumar’s Performance:
- Event: Men’s T47 High Jump Final
- Result: Silver Medal
- Best Jump: 2.04 meters
India’s Medal Tally at Paris 2024 Paralympics:
- Gold: 1
- Silver: 2
- Bronze: 4
- Total Medals: 7
India’s Paralympic Participation:
- 2024 Contingent: 84 athletes competing in 12 sports
- Previous Record: At Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, India secured 19 medals (5 golds, 8 silvers, and 6 bronzes)
Important days
National Nutrition Week 2024, September 1 to 7
National Nutrition Week (NNW) is an annual observance in India, taking place from September 1 to 7. This week-long event is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical role of nutrition in our lives and promoting healthy eating habits among people of all ages. The primary objectives of National Nutrition Week are:
Purpose:
- Raise awareness about the critical role of nutrition in health.
- Promote healthy eating habits among people of all ages.
- Support overall health and well-being across diverse population groups.
Objectives:
- Education: Inform the public about the importance of proper nutrition.
- Encouragement: Promote the adoption of healthier dietary practices.
- Support: Enhance overall health and well-being.
Understanding a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is vital for maintaining good health and preventing diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the benefits of a balanced diet include:
- Preventing Malnutrition: Ensures adequate intake of essential nutrients.
- Reducing Risk of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs): Helps in preventing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
- Promoting Overall Well-Being: Supports physical, mental, and emotional health