Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy
We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 1st and 2nd December current affairs 2024, curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.
Our comprehensive Current Affairs December 2024 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.
National news
UP govt declares Prayagraj’s Maha Kumbh area as new district
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced the creation of a new district in Prayagraj dedicated to the administration and management of the Maha Kumbh Mela. This new district will be called Maha Kumbh Mela to streamline the operations and ensure efficient management of the large-scale religious and cultural event.
District Formation:
- The Maha Kumbh Mela district is being created specifically to handle the complexities of the Kumbh Mela festivities. This decision was made to ensure smoother administration and better management of the massive influx of pilgrims, tourists, and participants expected for the event.
- Announcement by Leaders: The decision was officially announced during the Magh Mela 2024, with both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath endorsing the move. The creation of this district was seen as an important step in improving the infrastructure and logistics required for the mega event.
- Event Dates: The Maha Kumbh Mela is set to be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025, marking a significant spiritual event that takes place once every 12 years. It is expected to attract millions of devotees and visitors from all over India and the world.
- Significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela: The Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. It is an important occasion for Hindus, symbolizing spiritual renewal and the bathing in sacred rivers (in this case, the Triveni Sangam of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati river) to cleanse sins. The event has significant cultural and historical importance, as well as a role in promoting India’s diverse traditions and heritage on a global stage.
- Cultural and Tourism Impact: The Maha Kumbh Mela will serve as a milestone for the promotion of Indian culture and the state’s tourism industry. It will not only boost spiritual tourism but also provide an opportunity for showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and hospitality to the international community.
- Administration and Logistics: The creation of the new district will help focus resources, manpower, and infrastructure development in preparation for the event. This will ensure better crowd management, transportation facilities, sanitation, healthcare services, and overall safety for the large number of visitors expected during the Mela.
Uttarpradesh:
- Capital: Lucknow (Executive Branch)
- Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath
- Governor: Anandiben Patel
14 lakh Ayushman Vay Vandana cards created for senior citizens aged 70 years and above under AB-PMJAY
The government today said that around 14 lakh Ayushman Vay Vandana cards have been created, for senior citizens aged 70 years and above under Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) till the 25th of November.
- Treatment Coverage: Provides free treatment benefits of up to ₹5 lakh per year per family. Covers 4.5 crore beneficiary families, accounting for approximately 6 crore individuals.
- Hospital Network: 29,870 empanelled hospitals, including 13,173 private hospitals. Ensures a wide network of healthcare providers.
- Scope of Services: Offers cashless healthcare services for 1961 medical procedures. Covers 27 medical specialties, including General Medicine, Surgery, Orthopedics, Cardiology, and Oncology.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) – GK Facts
| Aspect | Details |
| Launch Date | September 23, 2018 |
| Part of | Ayushman Bharat initiative |
| Objective | To provide universal health coverage to economically weaker sections by offering cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. |
| Eligibility | Based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data. Covers rural and urban poor families without any cap on family size or age. |
| Beneficiaries | Targets 10.74 crore families (approximately 50 crore people) across India. Expanded to include senior citizens aged 70 and above. |
| Coverage | 1961 medical procedures across 27 specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and general surgery. |
| Empanelled Hospitals | Over 29,870 hospitals, including 13,173 private hospitals. |
| Key Features | – Cashless Treatment: No payment required at the point of service. – Portability: Services can be availed at any empanelled hospital across India. – Focuses on secondary and tertiary care services. |
| Implementation | Managed by the National Health Authority (NHA) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. States can implement it as Trust-based, Insurance-based, or hybrid models. |
| Ayushman Cards | Beneficiaries are issued an e-card (Ayushman Card) for cashless services. |
| Funding | Jointly funded by the Central and State Governments. |
| Achievements | Recognized as the world’s largest government-funded health assurance scheme. Reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for millions. |
Govt Approves 9 One Stop Centres for Distressed Indian Women Abroad
The Government of India has approved the establishment of 9 One Stop Centres (OSCs) aimed at providing support to distressed Indian women living abroad. These OSCs are designed to assist women facing distressing situations and are part of the broader efforts to ensure the welfare of Indian citizens, especially women, in foreign countries.
Details of the One Stop Centres (OSCs): Total OSCs Approved: 9
7 OSCs with Shelter Homes:
These OSCs will be located in:
- Bahrain
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- UAE
- Saudi Arabia (Jeddah and Riyadh)
2 OSCs without Shelter Homes:
These will be set up in:
- Toronto (Canada)
- Singapore
These centres will serve as critical points of contact for Indian women facing distress abroad, providing shelter, legal assistance, and support in emergency situations.
Budget and Funding for the Centers:
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has now created a specific budget line to fund these 9 OSCs.
- This step highlights the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Indian nationals abroad, especially women.
Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF):
- The ICWF has been established in all Indian missions and posts abroad to address the contingency welfare needs of overseas Indian citizens.
- It operates on a means-tested basis, meaning that it evaluates the financial status of applicants to determine the assistance they can receive.
International news
India to join 197 nations at UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh
The 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) will begin today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first time that West Asia is hosting this crucial environmental conference.
Key Details:
- Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Event Significance: COP16 coincides with the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD.
- Participation: India will join representatives from 197 countries to discuss and address issues related to desertification, land degradation, and drought.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) – GK Facts
Establishment: The UNCCD was adopted on June 17, 1994, in Paris, France, and came into force on December 26, 1996.
Purpose: The primary goal of the UNCCD is to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries experiencing serious drought and desertification, particularly in Africa.
Focus Areas:
- Desertification: Land degradation caused by various factors including climatic variations and human activities.
- Drought: A prolonged dry period in the natural climate cycle that can have a severe impact on agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods.
- Sustainable Land Management (SLM): Ensuring that land resources are managing in a way that is economically and ecologically sustainable.
- Membership: The UNCCD has 197 parties, including 196 countries and the European Union.
The UNCCD aims to secure global cooperation and shared responsibility to tackle desertification, mitigate the effects of drought, and restore land to ensure sustainable livelihoods for current and future generations.
India Re-Elected to UN Peacebuilding Commission for 2025-2026
India has been re-elected to the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) for the 2025-2026 term, reaffirming its pivotal role in international peace efforts. The announcement was made by India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, highlighting the country’s unwavering dedication to promoting global stability as a founding member and major contributor to UN peacekeeping. This accomplishment underscores India’s ongoing engagement with the PBC since its establishment in 2005.
What is the PBC?
The PBC is an intergovernmental advisory body set up in December 2005. It supports peace efforts in conflict-affected regions by bridging the gap between the UN General Assembly and the Security Council, enhancing coordination and effectiveness in peacebuilding.
Objectives and Functions of the PBC:
- Promoting Peacebuilding: Ensures that peace efforts are nationally led and tailored to the specific needs of each country.
- Facilitating Collaboration: Fosters dialogue among UN entities, member states, and other stakeholders to integrate development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding goals.
- Country-Specific Engagements: Organizes discussions to share best practices and experiences on regional and country-specific issues.
India’s Role and Contributions:
- Founding Member: India has been key in shaping the strategies of the PBC since its inception.
- UN Peacekeeping: As a major contributor, India helps promote stability and security in conflict zones.
- Strategic Leadership: India’s re-election demonstrates its continued leadership and commitment to aligning peacebuilding priorities with on-ground realities.
UN Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) – Short Notes
Establishment: The PBC was founded in December 2005 to support peace initiatives in conflict-affected regions. It acts as a bridge between the UN General Assembly and the Security Council to improve coordination and effectiveness in peacebuilding efforts globally.
Jaishankar Opens Indian Embassy’s New Chancery in Italy
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the new Chancery of the Indian Embassy in Rome, marking a significant step in strengthening India-Italy relations. Furthermore, the new facility enhances the Embassy’s ability to serve the Indian diaspora and also underscores the expanding partnership between India and Italy.
Key Highlights:
Inauguration of the New Chancery:
- The new Chancery increases the Embassy’s capacity to serve the Indian community in Italy.
- It signifies a milestone in the growing India-Italy partnership.
- The event reflects India’s expanding global presence and diplomatic outreach.
- Historical Ties between India and Italy:
- Italy has been a crucial hub for India’s historical interaction with Europe.
- Italy has played a key role as a producer, customer, financier, and carrier in India’s commerce.
- Both nations share a maritime history with common perspectives on global affairs, particularly on issues like freedom of navigation and maritime security.
Strengthening Diplomatic Relations:
- Firstly, frequent high-level interactions highlight the depth of India-Italy relations.
- Additionally, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s focus on the Indo-Mediterranean region aligns with India’s strategic interests.
- Moreover, shared commitments to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and global cooperation further reinforce the bilateral ties.
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC):
- Launched during India’s G20 presidency in 2023, the IMEC is a transformative initiative.
- The corridor strengthens connectivity between India, the Middle East, and Europe, boosting economic cooperation.
- It is seen as a “game-changer” for global economic collaboration.
Participation in Global Events:
- Jaishankar is set to represent India at the Outreach session of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi.
- He will also participate in the 10th MED Mediterranean Dialogue in Rome, a key platform for discussing geopolitical issues.
Strengthening Diaspora Engagement:
- The new Chancery will enhance services and representation for the Indian diaspora in Italy.
- This move aims to foster cultural connections and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Italy:
- Capital: Rome
- President: Sergio Mattarella
- Prime minister: Giorgia Meloni
Banking news
UPI sets new record of 16.58 billion financial transactions in October
The Finance Ministry has said that the Unified Payments Interface, UPI achieved a milestone by processing nearly 16.58 billion financial transactions in a single month in October this year. UPI processed around 23.49 lakh crore rupees across 16.58 billion financial transactions in October. This marks 45 per cent year-on-year growth as compared to October last year.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a real-time payment system developing by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It was launched in 2016 with the objective of providing a seamless and secure digital payments platform for Indian citizens. UPI allows users to link multiple bank accounts to a single mobile application, facilitating instant fund transfers and payments.
UPI’s International Reach:
UPI has gained global recognition and is now operational in several countries, helping to bridge the gap between global payments systems.
Countries where UPI is operational:
- UAE
- Singapore
- Bhutan
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
- France
- Mauritius
The international expansion of UPI has opened doors for cross-border payments, offering more convenience to overseas Indians and international merchants.
Appointment news
Japanese Masato Kanda was elected as the 11th President of ADB
On November 2024, the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced the election of Masato Kanda from Japan as the 11th President of the Bank.
- Masato Kanda will replace the current President, Masatsugu Asakawa, who will be step down on February 23, 2025.
- Masato Kanda is currently 59 years old and serves as a Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.
- He will officially assume office as ADB President on February 24, 2025.
- The term of ADB Presidents is typically five years, with eligibility for re-election. However, as Masatsugu Asakawa is leaving his position mid-term, Masato Kanda will serve the remainder of Asakawa’s term, which will run until November 23, 2026.
About the Asian Development Bank (ADB):
- Headquarters: Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
- Members: 69 countries.
- Focus: ADB is a multilateral development bank focus on the Asia-Pacific region, providing loans to member countries for development purposes and offering consultancy and technical services to support poverty alleviation.
Science and tech news
Heavy rains lash Tamil Nadu as Cyclone Fengal moves towards Arabian Sea
Tamil Nadu is experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall as Cyclone Fengal which is formed in bay of Bengal continues to move towards the Arabian Sea. The continuous rains have caused significant disruption in several interior districts, including Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Salem, Dharmapuri, Namakkal, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, and the Nilgiris.
Key Updates:
- Heavy Rainfall: Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Salem, Dharmapuri, Namakkal, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, and Nilgiris are facing heavy rains, with reports of widespread waterlogging and disruption of daily activities.
- Tiruvannamalai’s hill areas are experiencing severe weather, with boulders rolling down the foothills, causing heavy damage to houses.
- Damage to Properties: At least three houses were fully damaged due to the falling boulders in the foothill areas of Tiruvannamalai. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, but the damage is significant.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has started rescue operations early this morning to assist in evacuations and provide relief to affected families.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a specialized agency in India that is responsible for responding to natural and man-made disasters.It is responsible for providing rapid, efficient, and coordinated responses to disaster situations to minimize loss of life, property, and the environment.
Key Points about NDRF:
- Establishment: The NDRF was established in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) of the Government of India.
- It was established to specialize in disaster response and enhance the efficiency and coordination of disaster management across the country.
- Head of NDRF: Piyush Anand
- Ministry of home affairs: Officeholders: Manish Tiwari (Joint secretary to the Government of India), Amit Shah (Minister)
‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman’ Portal
The ‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman’ campaign, launched by the Department of Justice on January 24, 2024, aims to celebrate 75 years of India as a Republic and the adoption of its Constitution. The campaign’s primary objective is to educate citizens about their legal rights and duties and to reaffirm India’s commitment to the Constitution.
Key Points:
- Campaign Launch:
- Date: January 24, 2024.
- Launch by: The Vice-President of India.
- Focuses on celebrating India’s Constitutional history and raising public awareness on legal rights and duties.
Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman Portal:
- Launch Date: July 16, 2024, during the Prayagraj event.
- Serves as a knowledge hub providing resources on constitutional rights, legal literacy, and fundamental duties.
- Interactive tools like quizzes, crossword puzzles, and activities related to the Preamble and Panch Pran engage citizens.
Main Objectives:
- Promote Constitutional Literacy: Educate the public about their legal rights and duties.
- Empower Citizens: Encourage people to actively exercise their rights and understand their legal responsibilities.
Sub-Campaigns:
- Sabko Nyaya Har Ghar Nyaya: Focuses on ensuring justice for all through village-level entrepreneurs and citizen services fairs.
- Nav Bharat Nav Sankalp: Promotes constitutional awareness through online competitions, such as the Samvidhan Quiz and Panch Pran Rangotsav.
- Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan: Works on legal literacy at the grassroots level, including workshops for marginalized groups and addressing gender-based issues.
State news
Gujarat’s Gharchola Handicraft Gets GI Recognition
The Geographical Indication (GI) tag has been awarded to Gujarat’s iconic Gharchola handicraft, bringing the state’s total GI tags to 27, with 23 dedicated to handicrafts.. This recognition highlights Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage and the exquisite craftsmanship of its artisans.
Gharchola’s Significance:
- Cultural Importance: Traditionally worn during Hindu and Jain weddings, Gharchola features auspicious colors like red, maroon, green, and yellow.
- Modern evolution: Contemporary designs and techniques have been integrated to cater to modern aesthetic preferences.
- Market Demand: Gharchola has gained popularity and is widely available at Garvi Gurjari sales centers across Gujarat.
GI Tag Benefits:
- Authentication: Ensures the origin and authenticity of the product.
- Global Recognition: Increases the visibility of Gujarat’s handicrafts on international platforms, enhancing cultural pride.
- Artisan Support: Provides better livelihood opportunities for local artisans.
Other Handicrafts with GI Tags:
Recent Additions:
- Surat’s Saadeli art
- Banaskantha’s Soof embroidery
- Bharuch’s Sujni craft
- Ahmedabad’s Saudagiri Print
- Mata Ni Pacchedi handicrafts
Cumulative Impact: These recognitions, including initiatives like the Hastakala Setu Yojana, play a crucial role in safeguarding Gujarat’s artistic heritage.
Geographical Indication (GI) Tag – General Knowledge
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property right that identifies goods with a specific geographical origin and qualities, reputation, or characteristics inherent to that region.The GI tag generally applies to agricultural products, handicrafts, and other goods strongly associated with a specific region.
GI Tag in India:
- India introduced the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act in 1999. This law governs the registration and protection of GI tags.
- The Geographical Indication Registry is based in Chennai under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Gujarat:
- Capital: Gandhinagar
- Governor: Acharya Devvrat
- Chief minister: Bhupendra Patel
PM Modi to Launch ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’ in Haryana on 9th December
- On 9th December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’ in Panipat, Haryana.
- The scheme aims to empower women by creating job opportunities in the insurance sector, particularly as agents of the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC).
Objective:
- The initiative focuses on enabling women to become LIC agents, providing them with the opportunity to sell insurance and earn an income.
- It will also promote financial literacy and security in local communities.
Empowerment Through Employment:
- The program will provide employment opportunities for women, helping them achieve economic independence.
- By working as insurance agents, women will play a significant role in promoting financial inclusion and empowerment at the grassroots level.
PM Modi’s Connection to Haryana:
- Haryana has been a key state for PM Modi’s initiatives, including the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ movement launched in Panipat in 2015.
- The state has a strong track record of policies aimed at promoting women’s welfare, making it an ideal location for the launch of such initiatives.
Impact on Haryana:
- Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini emphasized that this scheme will further enhance the state’s legacy of empowering women.
- This initiative will strengthen Haryana’s focus on women’s rights and inclusive growth, complementing other policies that support women’s development.
Broader Impact on Women’s Welfare:
- The ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’ is a part of PM Modi’s continuous efforts to push for women-centric schemes.
- It follows the success of previous initiatives such as ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ and the ‘Namo Didis’ programs aimed at improving women’s status in society.
Haryana:
- Capital: Chandigarh
- Chief minister: Nayab Singh Saini
- Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya
Defence news
Defence Ministry signs contract worth over Rs 1,200 cr with Cochin Shipyard for Short Refit and Dry Docking of INS Vikramaditya
On Saturday, the Defence Ministry of India signed a significant contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the short refit and dry docking of INS Vikramaditya, at a total cost exceeding ₹1,200 crore. This contract marks a key milestone in the government’s vision to develop Cochin Shipyard Limited as a prominent Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Hub to support India’s growing naval ecosystem.
Key Highlights:
- Contract Value: More than ₹1,200 crore
- Scope: The contract involves the short refit and dry docking of the Indian Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya.
- Relevance: This project is considered a crucial step in strengthening the capabilities of Cochin Shipyard as a hub for maintenance and repair, thereby enhancing India’s indigenous shipbuilding and maintenance infrastructure.
INS Vikramaditya Details:
- Commissioned: November 2013
- Type: Aircraft carrier
- Post-refit: After the completion of the refit, INS Vikramaditya will return to the active fleet of the Indian Navy with upgraded combat capabilities. The refit will likely involve critical maintenance and modernization to enhance the ship’s operational effectiveness, ensuring it remains a key asset for India’s maritime defense.
Ministry of defence: Officeholder: Rajnath Singh (Minister)
India-Sri Lanka Joint Operation Seizes 500 kg Crystal Meth
On November , 2024, the Indian Navy and the Sri Lankan Navy successfully conducted a joint anti-narcotics operation in the Arabian Sea, intercepting two Sri Lankan-flagged fishing vessels and seizing around 500 kg of crystal methamphetamine. This operation highlights the growing collaboration between the two nations in combating transnational crime.
Key Details of the Operation:
Surveillance and Coordination: The operation involved Indian Naval Long-Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Remotely Piloted Aircraft, and an Indian naval ship, all guided by inputs from the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR).
This coordination played a pivotal role in identifying and intercepting the vessels.
- Execution: Continuous aerial surveillance and coordinated efforts between Indian naval assets led to the boarding of the two vessels by Indian naval boarding teams.
- Seizure: Approximately 500 kg of crystal methamphetamine was seized from the intercepted boats.To support the operation and enhance force capabilities, an additional naval ship was deployed.
- Handover: The boats, crew, and seized narcotics are being handed over to Sri Lankan authorities for further legal proceedings.
Indian navy:
- Chief of naval staff: Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi
- Establishment: The Indian Navy officially formed on October 2, 1949, originally known as the Royal Indian Navy. After India became a republic in 1950, it was renamed the Indian Navy.
- Royal Indian Navy: The origins of the Indian Navy date back to 1612, when the East India Company established the first Indian Navy to protect British trade interests.
- First Indian Naval Chief: The first Indian to hold the position of the Chief of Naval Staff was Admiral Sardarilal Mathradas Nanda in 1958.
Sri lanka:
- Capitals: Colombo, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee
- President: Anura Kumara Dissanayake
- Prime minister: Harini Amarasuriya
Award news
President Murmu to confer National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities on Dec 3
On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, President Droupadi Murmu will confer the National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. The ceremony will recognize the achievements of 22 individuals and 11 institutions that have made significant contributions to the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Key Highlights:
- National Awards: 22 individuals and 11 institutions will be honored for their exceptional work in promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
- Social Justice and Empowerment Minister: Dr. Virendra Kumar, the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, will also unveil several new welfare initiatives aimed at further empowering persons with disabilities.
- Notable Awardees: Amar Jain: Amar Jain, a legal professional with 100% visual impairment, will receive the National Award for Individual Excellence in the category of Sarvshreshth Divyangjan-2024. He shared his inspirational life story and highlighted the challenges he has overcome in his journey.
- Prateek Khandelwal: Prateek Khandelwal, who has a 75% locomotor disability, will also receive the National Award for Individual Excellence in the category of Sarvshreshth Divyangjan-2024. He is the founder of ‘Ramp My City’, a start-up focused on making urban environments across India more accessible for persons with disabilities. Prateek shared how his initiative is transforming cities by improving accessibility for people with disabilities.
Book and author news
EAM Dr Jaishankar releases Vikram Sampath’s book Tipu Sultan- The Saga of the Mysore Interregnum
On Saturday, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar released the book “Tipu Sultan – The Saga of the Mysore Interregnum” written by Vikram Sampath in New Delhi.
Key Points from the Event:
- Dr. Jaishankar’s Address: During the launch, Dr. Jaishankar praised the book for its comprehensive coverage of the complex and fast-moving era in which Tipu Sultan lived. He highlighted how the book goes beyond mere historical narrative, offering insights into politics, strategy, administration, sociology, and diplomacy during Tipu Sultan’s time.
- Tipu Sultan’s Legacy: Dr. Jaishankar spoke about Tipu Sultan’s reputation as a key figure who resisted British colonial expansion in India. He acknowledged that Tipu’s efforts against British forces have made him a symbol of resistance in Indian history.
- Turning Point in History: Dr. Jaishankar pointed out that Tipu Sultan’s defeat and death marked a turning point in the fate of Peninsular India. His downfall significantly influenced the future of the region under British colonial rule, changing the course of history.
Book’s Focus:
- The book captures the essence of Tipu Sultan’s rule, offering a detailed account of the interregnum period in Mysore.
- Vikram Sampath delves into Tipu Sultan’s military strategies, his resistance to British colonialism, and the sociopolitical landscape of the time, providing a nuanced understanding of this critical period in Indian history.
Important days
President Droupadi Murmu wishes people of Nagaland on their statehood day
On Nagaland Statehood Day, President Droupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt wishes to the people of Nagaland. In a message shared through a social media post, the President expressed her admiration for the state and highlighted its rich heritage, which includes its flora and fauna.
Nagaland became a state on December 1, 1963, and this day marks the celebration of its statehood and achievements. The President’s message further encourages the people of Nagaland to continue their journey towards development while preserving their unique cultural identity.
Nagaland:
- Capital: Kohima (Executive Branch)
- Chief minister: Neiphiu Rio
- Governor: La. Ganesan
International Jaguar Day 2024, Date, History and Significance
Every year on November 29, International Jaguar Day is observed to raise awareness about the importance of jaguars and the need for their conservation. As apex predators in the Americas, jaguars (scientifically known as Panthera onca) play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. However, habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict are increasingly threatening their survival.
Key Details about International Jaguar Day:
History and Establishment:
- Established: In 2018 as part of global conservation efforts.
- Spearheaded by: Panthera, an organization dedicated to wild cat conservation, in collaboration with governments and conservation groups.
Significance of the Date:
- November 29 was selected to commemorate the adoption of the Jaguar Corridor Initiative.
- This program, launched in 2018, aims to protect jaguar habitats across 18 countries from Mexico to Argentina, allowing the species to roam freely in their natural environment.
Importance of Jaguars in Ecosystems:
- Jaguars are apex predators, crucial to the health of their ecosystems. They help regulate the populations of prey species, ensuring balance within food chains.
- Their presence in the wild contributes to biodiversity conservation, making their protection vital for the long-term stability of the ecosystems they inhabit.
