National news
India’s First Bio-Bitumen Stretch Inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra. Developed using lignin-based bio-bitumen technology, the initiative aligns with India’s sustainability and self-reliance goals.
Key Highlights
Bio-Bitumen Technology
- Developed by Praj Industries in collaboration with CSIR-CRRI, NHAI, and Oriental.
- Uses lignin, a by-product of plant biomass, as a sustainable binder for flexible pavement construction.
Sustainability Impact
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
- Addresses bitumen scarcity and cuts down on import dependency (India imports 50% of bitumen).
- Utilizes lignocellulosic biomass, generating revenue for bio-refineries and mitigating stubble burning.
Economic and Agricultural Benefits
- Converts agricultural waste like rice straw (parali) into bio-bitumen, reducing pollution in states like Punjab and Haryana.
- Adds value to farmers’ roles as bitumendata (bio-bitumen producers), annadata (food producers), and urjadata (energy producers).
Vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat
- Supports domestic production of bio-bitumen, promoting industrial sustainability.
- Advances self-reliance by reducing dependency on imports.
CNG from Biomass
- 400 projects in India aim to produce CNG from biomass, using 60 lakh tonnes of parali.
- Cheaper, cleaner alternative to petrol, reducing pollution and benefiting farmers.
Govt Forms Committee to Assess IAF’s Capability Development Amid Rising Threats
The Indian Government has constituted a high-level committee, chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, to evaluate the IAF’s capability development in response to regional threats from China and Pakistan. The committee will focus on indigenous design, development, and acquisition projects and submit its report within two to three months.
Key Details
Committee Composition:
- Chairperson: Rajesh Kumar Singh (Defence Secretary).
- Members: Sanjeev Kumar (Secretary, Defence Production), Dr. Samir V. Kamat (DRDO Chief), and Air Marshal T. Singh (Member Secretary).
Role:
- Assess IAF’s fighter aircraft and missile capability gaps.
- Recommend solutions emphasizing indigenous projects and self-reliance.
Key Issues Under Review
Fighter Aircraft Shortages:
- Current fleet includes 36 Rafale jets; plans for 110+ 4.5-generation fighters are pending.
- Indigenous production (e.g., LCA Mark 1A) will be prioritized despite delays.
Weaponry Gaps: Addressing deficits in air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles to counter China’s advanced arsenal.
Indigenous Development: Plans for 114 fighter aircraft to be domestically manufactured in collaboration with foreign partners.
Strategic Importance
- Regional Threats: Growing air power of China and its support for Pakistan necessitate urgent upgrades to IAF’s defense capabilities.
- Future Readiness: The committee’s recommendations will be critical for strengthening IAF’s operational readiness and ensuring self-reliance in defense.
Science and tech news
SpaDeX Mission: ISRO’s Leap Towards Space Docking Technology
ISRO plans to launch the SpaDeX mission in December 2024 aboard PSLV-C60, aiming to make India the fourth country to achieve space docking technology. The mission involves two spacecraft, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), demonstrating autonomous in-space docking.
Key Objectives
Primary Objective: Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking technologies in low-Earth orbit.
Secondary Objectives:
- Power transfer between docked spacecraft.
- Control of composite spacecraft.
- Payload operations post-undocking for up to two years.
Technological Innovations
Indigenous Mechanisms:
- Docking systems and autonomous rendezvous algorithms.
- Power transfer technologies.
Advanced Sensors:
- Laser Range Finder and Proximity Sensors.
- GNSS-based Relative Orbit Determination and Propagation (RODP).
Software and Testing: Algorithms validated using multiple test beds for precision docking.
ISRO Commences Launch Campaign for Gaganyaan-G1 Uncrewed Mission
On December , 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) began the launch campaign for the Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3-G1) and Orbital Module (OM-1) for the Gaganyaan-G1 uncrewed mission. This mission marks a significant step towards India’s first crewed spaceflight. The campaign started with the integration of the S200 motor segments at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
Key Details:
- The HLVM3 is a modified version of the LVM3 launch vehicle, designed with enhanced reliability and safety features for human spaceflight.
- The integration of critical systems such as control systems, avionics, and the Crew Escape System will take place at SDSC and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Orbital Module (OM) integration and testing will occur at the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) in Bengaluru.
- The mission’s launch coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-X/CARE), which took place on December 18, 2014.
About the Gaganyaan Mission:
The name Gaganyaan is derived from the Sanskrit words for ‘sky’ and ‘vehicle’.
Primary Objective: The mission aims to launch a team of astronauts into space to a 400 km altitude in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for a three-day expedition, after which they will return by landing in the Indian Ocean.
The Gaganyaan program includes three uncrewed missions and one crewed mission:
- The first uncrewed mission is scheduled for 2024-25.
- The first crewed mission is slated for 2025-27.
- The uncrewed flights will provide critical data on crew safety, vehicle performance, and system integration.
- The Gaganyaan mission is also aimed at enhancing India’s self-reliance in launching heavier payloads and supports the ambitious Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
About ISRO:
Chairman: Dr. Sreedhara Panicker Somanath
Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Established: August 15, 1969
ISRO is one of the six largest space agencies in the world, driving India’s advancements in space exploration.
Award news
ESIC Wins Four Awards at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific) 2024
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment of the Government of India, received four awards at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific) held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Key Highlights:
Organizer: The event was organized by the International Social Security Association (ISSA).
Awards: ESIC received the following recognition:
- Certificate of Merit with Special Mention for its mobile app, Ask An Appointment (AAA+).
- Three Certificates of Merit in the categories of Occupational Accident and Disease, Sustainable Investment, and System Resilience.
- App Details: The Ask An Appointment (AAA+) app, available on both Android and iOS, provides services for insured individuals, beneficiaries, staff, and ESI pensioners. It supports 8 languages, including English, Hindi, and six regional languages.
- Award Presentation: The awards were received by Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, Director General of ESIC, on behalf of the corporation.
About ESIC:
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is one of India’s two major statutory social security bodies, with the other being the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). ESIC plays a pivotal role in providing social security and health benefits to employees in India.
About Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is one of India’s two main statutory social security bodies under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, with the other being the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
Key Facts:
- Establishment: ESIC was set up under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948, which was India’s first major social security legislation for workers, passed by the Indian Parliament.
- Objective: The primary goal of ESIC is to provide social security and health insurance benefits to workers in India, covering sickness, maternity, disability, and death.
- Fund Management: The fund is managed by the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), in accordance with the rules and regulations defined in the ESI Act of 1948.
- Launch: The ESIC scheme was officially launched on 24th February 1952, by Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This date is now celebrated as ESIC Day.
About the International Social Security Association (ISSA)
The International Social Security Association (ISSA) is an international organization dedicated to promoting social security worldwide. It was founded under the auspices of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Key Facts:
- Founded: The ISSA was established in 1927.
- Secretary General: Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano.
- Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
- Mission: ISSA aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of social security systems across the globe through knowledge exchange, research, and collaboration.
PM Modi Honoured with Kuwait’s Top Civilian Award
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest civilian honour, the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, by Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. This prestigious accolade marks the 20th international honour received by PM Modi, symbolizing his contributions to fostering global partnerships and India’s growing influence on the world stage.
Award Details
- Award: Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer – Kuwait’s highest civilian honour.
- Recipient: Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Conferred By: Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah.
- Eligibility: Given to Heads of State, foreign sovereigns, and royal family members as a gesture of goodwill.
- Previous Recipients: Includes leaders like Bill Clinton, Prince Charles, and George Bush.
Significance of the Honour
- Diplomatic Relations: Reflects the strong ties between India and Kuwait.
- PM Modi’s Dedication: He dedicated the award to the people of India and the India-Kuwait friendship.
Recent International Honors for PM Modi
- Order of Excellence – Guyana.
- Dominica Award of Honour – Dominica.
Kuwait:
- Capital: Kuwait City
- Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar
Sports news
India Clinches Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup title
India clinched the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia cup T20 title by defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs in the final held at the Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur on December 22, 2024. The victory was powered by a stellar half century from Gongadi Trisha and an impressive bowling performance, highlighting India’s dominance in the tournament.
- Date: December 22, 2024
- Venue: Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur
- Result: India defeated Bangladesh by 41 runs to win the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia Cup T20 title.
India’s Innings
- Total Score: 117/7 in 20 overs.
- Star Performer: Gongadi Trisha – 52 runs off 47 balls (5 fours, 2 sixes).
Other Contributions: Mithila Vinod – 17 runs off 12 balls.
Bangladesh’s Bowling
- Farjana Easmin – 4/31 in 4 overs (4 wickets).
- Nishita Akter Nishi – 2 key wickets.
Bangladesh:
- Capital: Dhaka
- Currency: Bangladeshi Taka
- Official language: Bengali
- President: Mohammed Shahabuddin
Appointment news
Eurogrip Tyres Appoints MS Dhoni as Brand Ambassador to Empower Riders
In December 2024, Eurogrip Tyres, a leading brand for 2-wheeler, 3-wheeler, and off-highway tyres in India, appointed Mahendra Singh Dhoni (M.S. Dhoni) as its new Brand Ambassador.
Key Highlights:
- M.S. Dhoni, renowned for his reliability, performance, and passion for riding, aligns perfectly with Eurogrip’s vision of offering riders enhanced control and confidence on every journey.
- The partnership aims to boost the brand’s presence and attract more motorcycle enthusiasts.
- TVS Srichakra Limited (TSL), a part of the TVS Mobility Group, manufactures Eurogrip, TVS Eurogrip, and TVS Tyres.
- TVS Srichakra Limited was established in 1982 and is headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Justice Madan Lokur Appointed Chairperson of UN Internal Justice Council
Justice Madan B Lokur, former Supreme Court Judge of India, has been appointed Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC) by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. His term runs from December 19, 2024, to November 12, 2028.
Key Details
Role and Council Composition:
- Justice Lokur leads the five-member IJC, an advisory body ensuring fairness, professionalism, and independence in the UN’s internal justice system.
- Other members: Carmen Artigas (Uruguay), Rosalie Balkin (Australia), Stefan Brezina (Austria), and Jay Pozenal (USA).
Significance:
- Reflects Justice Lokur’s judicial expertise and global recognition.
- Enhances India’s representation in international governance and legal frameworks.
Justice Lokur’s Contributions
- Known for rulings on social justice, human rights, and environmental issues in India.
- His transition to the UN underscores India’s growing influence in global legal and governance systems.
Sports news
Sairaj Pardeshi bags one Gold and two Silver medals at Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in Doha
In Weightlifting, India’s Sairaj Pardeshi bagged one gold and two silver medals in snatch, clean and jerk, and total lift categories at the Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in Doha, Qatar. He bettered his own youth national records to clinch the 81kg men’s title.
Sanjana’s Performance
Category: 76kg Women’s
Medals: 5 Silver Medals
3 Silver (Youth Category)
2 Silver (Junior Category)
Lifts:
- Total lift: 210kg
- Snatch: 90kg
- Clean and Jerk: 120kg
Shahu Tushar Mane bags Gold medal at Senior National Shooting Championship in Bhopal
In Shooting, Shahu Tushar Mane clinched the gold medal to claim his first senior national title in the men’s 10m Air Rifle competition at the 67th National Shooting Championship, in Bhopal yesterday. He edged out Dhanush Srikanth who bagged the silver medal. Yash Vardhan took the bronze, finishing ahead of Rudrankksh Patil.
Men’s 10m Air Rifle Senior National Final
- Gold Medalist: Shahu Tushar Mane – Claimed his first senior national title.
- Silver Medalist: Dhanush Srikanth
- Bronze Medalist: Yash Vardhan
- Notable Finish: Rudrankksh Patil finished outside the medal positions.
Men’s 10m Air Rifle Junior National Final
- Gold Medalist: Rudrankksh Patil (Maharashtra), a former world champion.
- Silver Medalist: Abishek Sekhar (Karnataka)
- Bronze Medalist: Himanshu (Haryana)
Men’s 10m Air Rifle Youth Event
- Gold Medalist: Himanshu – Scored 253.0.
- Silver Medalist: Yash Pandey (Madhya Pradesh)
- Bronze Medalist: Abhinav Shaw (West Bengal)
Agreement news
December 2024: DPIIT Strengthens India’s Startup Ecosystem with Key MoUs and Initiatives
In December 2024, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I), entered into two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem.
Key Developments:
Partnership with HDFC Bank:
- Objective: To provide world-class banking and financial services to startups.
- Focus: Strengthening the startup ecosystem through mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building programs.
- HDFC Bank, India’s largest private sector bank by assets, will play a key role in fostering innovation and growth among startups.
MoU with Tally Solutions:
- Objective: To digitally empower startups in the manufacturing sector.
- Tally Solutions, a software company based in Bengaluru, will assist in improving the digital capabilities of manufacturing startups.
About DPIIT:
Role: The DPIIT works to promote and facilitate industry and trade in India, with a focus on boosting the startup ecosystem.
Upcoming Initiative: The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative is set to launch under the Startup India program. This will provide valuable resources and strengthen India’s startup ecosystem.
- Secretary: Amardeep Sing Bhatia
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Established: 1995
These partnerships and initiatives are aimed at driving innovation, improving the digital infrastructure, and creating opportunities for growth within the startup ecosystem in India.
NASSCOM and DIFC Sign MoU to Boost Cross-Border Collaboration in Fintech, AI, and Innovation
In December 2024, the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), based in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cross-border collaboration in areas such as fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and innovation.
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
- Signatories: The MoU was signed by Rajesh Nambiar, President of NASSCOM, and Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority.
- Access to DIFC’s Innovation Ecosystem: Over 3000 NASSCOM member companies will get unique access to DIFC’s Innovation Hub, Dubai AI Campus, and its extensive network of leading companies in the financial industry.
- Planned Activities: The partnership includes organizing webinars, roundtables, roadshows, and networking events to foster knowledge exchange, business growth, and collaboration on innovative projects.
About DIFC:
- DIFC serves as the international financial hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region, covering 77 countries.
- It is home to 6150 active registered companies and drives innovation in the financial sector.
Ranks and report news
NITI Aayog Releases Report on Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth: A Step Towards Enhancing India’s Industrial Productivity
On December , 2024, the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, released a report titled “Site Adjacent Factory Employee (SAFE) Accommodation: Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth.” The report emphasizes the need for secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient housing solutions for industrial workers to support the growth of India’s manufacturing sector.
Key Points of the Report:
- Objective: To address the housing challenges faced by workers in industrial zones across India, thereby supporting the growth and productivity of the manufacturing sector.
- Union Budget 2024-25 Initiative: The report was launched as part of the Union Budget 2024-25, aimed at improving worker accommodation facilities.
- Implementation Model: The housing initiative will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support. This will be complemented by contributions from anchor industries.
Expected Outcomes:
- Enhanced productivity in manufacturing industries.
- Reduced worker attrition.
- Increased investment in the manufacturing sector due to better living conditions.
About NITI Aayog:
- Chairperson: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
- Established: January 1, 2015
Role: NITI Aayog is responsible for formulating and implementing strategic policies and initiatives for India’s development, including supporting sectors like manufacturing and worker welfare.
This initiative aims to create a more conducive environment for industrial growth by addressing workers’ housing needs, which will help in attracting investments and improving overall industry performance.
India Tops Global Mobile Malware Attacks in Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Report
According to the “Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Mobile, IoT, and OT Threat Report” by Zscaler Inc., headquartered in the United States, India has now topped the global list for mobile malware attacks, accounting for 28% of worldwide attacks. This is a significant rise from its 3rd place ranking in 2023, surpassing the United States (27.3%) and Canada (15.9%).
Key Findings from the Report:
- Mobile Malware Attacks: India leads the world in mobile malware attacks, contributing to 28% of the global attacks.
- Data Set: The report analyzes over 20 billion threat-related mobile transactions and associated cyber threats from June 2023 to May 2024.
Internet of Things (IoT) Attacks:
- Top Target for IoT Attacks: The United States remains the most targeted country for IoT attacks, with 81% of the total attacks.
- Other Targeted Countries: Singapore, the UK, Germany, and Canada follow as significant targets for IoT attacks.
IoT Attacks by Industry:
Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector accounted for the highest volume of IoT attacks, making up 36% of all IoT malware blocks.
Other Sectors:
- Transportation: 14% of IoT malware blocks.
- Food, Beverage, and Tobacco: 11% of IoT malware blocks.
Important day
National Consumer Day 2024: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to launch key initiatives to boost consumer protection
National Consumer Day is celebrated on December 24 every year to highlight the importance of consumer protection in India.
- The day marks the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, which received presidential assent on this date.
- Theme for 2024: “Virtual Hearings and Digital Access to Consumer Justice”.
Key Initiatives Launched by Minister Pralhad Joshi:
Jago Grahak Jago App: Empowering consumers with information to make informed choices.
Jagriti App and Jagriti Dashboard:
- Aimed at identifying dark patterns on e-commerce platforms.
- Enhances consumer awareness and rights on digital platforms.
e-Mapp Portal:
- Streamlines licensing, verification, and registration processes for businesses.
- Reduces compliance burdens and promotes transparency.
National Consumer Helpline Portal (Revamped):
- Features enhanced functionality and improved navigation.
- Faster grievance resolution to aid consumers.
Safety Pledge by E-commerce Platforms:
- 13 major e-commerce platforms will sign a voluntary safety pledge.
- Platforms will commit to detecting and preventing the sale of unsafe, spurious, and substandard products.
Inauguration of State-of-the-Art Facilities: National Test House facilities in Guwahati and Mumbai to support product testing and consumer safety.
Obituary news
Renowned Folk Artist Darshanam Mogilaiah Passes Away at 73
In December 2024, Darshanam Mogilaiah, the celebrated folk artist and Padma Shri awardee, passed away at the age of 73 in Warangal, Telangana. Born in 1951 in Ausalikunta, Andhra Pradesh (now part of Telangana), Mogilaiah was renowned for his immense contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional folk music.
Key Points about Darshanam Mogilaiah:
- Padma Shri Awardee: Mogilaiah received Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2022 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to traditional folk music.
- Legacy of the Kinnera: Born into a family of Kinnera players, he became famously known as ‘Kinnera Mogulaiah’. The Kinnera, a stringed instrument originating in the 4th century CE, was a vital part of his musical heritage.
- Innovation of the 12-Stair Kinnera: Mogilaiah was credited with the innovation of the 12-stair Kinnera, which distinguished him from other artists and helped preserve the musical traditions of Telangana’s folk music.
- Cultural Influence: His work gained nationwide recognition, particularly for his role in the Tollywood movie ‘Balagam’, where he not only acted but also performed the emotional song ‘Thoduga Maa Thodundi’, which resonated deeply with fans of folk music.
- A Dying Art: As one of the last artists skilled in playing the Kinnera, Mogilaiah’s efforts were crucial in maintaining this rare musical tradition, ensuring its survival for future generations.
Mogilaiah’s passing represents the end of an era for Telangana’s folk music, and his legacy remains a testament to his dedication to preserving and promoting traditional music.
