National news
Launch of Standard Operating Procedures for ‘White Revolution 2.0’ by Ministry of Cooperation
On September 2024, Union Minister Amit Shah, representing the Ministry of Cooperation (MoC), unveiled the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the ‘White Revolution 2.0’ during a National Conference in New Delhi. This event highlighted the initiatives taken by the MoC in the first 100 days of the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.
Key Highlights:
- Theme: The conference focused on the theme “Sahkar-se-Samriddhi,” aimed at strengthening and expanding the cooperative sector, which has the potential to benefit approximately 13 crore farmers across India.
- Initiatives Launched: Alongside the SOPs for ‘White Revolution 2.0,’ the Minister introduced the ‘Cooperation among Cooperatives’ initiative and the ‘Margdarshika’ guidelines.
About the Ministry of Cooperation (MoC):
- Union Minister: Amit Shah (Constituency: Gandhinagar, Gujarat)
- Ministers of State: Murlidhar Mohol (Constituency: Pune, Maharashtra), Krishan Pal Gurjar (Faridabad, Haryana)
What is white revolution?
The White Revolution, also known as Operation Flood, was a significant movement initiated in India during the late 1970s aimed at increasing milk production and establishing a nationwide milk grid. Here are the key aspects of the White Revolution:
Objectives:
- Increase Milk Production: To transform India from a milk-deficient nation into one of the largest producers of milk.
- Support Dairy Farmers: To provide fair prices to dairy farmers and increase their incomes.
- Create a Cooperative Structure: To develop a strong cooperative network for milk production and distribution.
Key Features:
- Cooperative Movement: The establishment of dairy cooperatives across rural India, allowing farmers to pool their resources and sell milk directly.
- Anand Model: The success of the Amul cooperative in Anand, Gujarat, served as a model for other cooperatives throughout the country.
- Financial Support: The program was funded by the sale of milk powder and butter oil, which was collected from the cooperatives and sold at a premium.
- Infrastructure Development: Investments in milk processing and distribution facilities, improving the supply chain and ensuring milk quality.
Historical Context:
- Initiation: Launched in 1970 by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) under the leadership of Dr. Verghese Kurien, who is often referred to as the “Father of the White Revolution” in India.
National Symposium ‘Exercise AIKYA’ on Disaster Management
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with the Southern Command of the Indian Army, organized a two-day national symposium titled ‘Exercise AIKYA’ on disaster management.
Aim: The primary goal of Exercise AIKYA was to enhance disaster preparedness and response through effective collaboration between various key stakeholders across India.
About AIKYA
“AIKYA,” meaning “Oneness” in Tamil, reflects the exercise’s focus on integrating India’s disaster management community. It brought together key stakeholders from six southern states and Union Territories—Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry—to improve disaster response and preparedness.
Key Organizations Involved
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)
- Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)
- Central Water Commission (CWC)
- Forest Survey of India (FSI)
- Geological Survey of India (GSI)
- Department of Telecommunications (DoT)
Organizers: The symposium was jointly organized by:
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- Indian Army Southern Command
- Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (TNSDMA)
Location: The event was held at the Headquarters of the Dakshin Bharat Area, emphasizing regional cooperation in disaster management.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Overview
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is the apex statutory body responsible for disaster management in India. It plays a crucial role in formulating policies, plans, and guidelines to ensure timely and effective disaster response and risk reduction across the country.
Formation
- Constituted on: 27th September 2006
- Established under: Disaster Management Act, 2005
Leadership
- Chairperson: Prime Minister of India
- Vice-Chairperson: One member is designated as Vice-Chairperson
- Other Members: NDMA consists of nine additional members, contributing to disaster management strategies.
FCRA Licence of International Cooperative Alliance Cancelled
The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), regulates foreign funding to entities and individuals in India. Recently, the MHA cancelled the FCRA licence of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), an apex body of cooperatives founded in 1895, for alleged rule violations. The ICA represents over 1 billion cooperative members globally.
FCRA Licence Cancellations for NGOs: The FCRA licenses of several NGOs, including the CNI Synodical Board of Social Service, Voluntary Health Association of India, and Indo-Global Social Service Society, have been revoked due to allegations of illegal conversions, anti-CAA funding, and other illegal activities.
Watchlist for Foreign Donors: The MHA has placed 10 foreign donors from Australia, America, and Europe on a watchlist, leading to restrictions on fund clearance without MHA permission. These organizations are involved in climate change, environmental, and child rights work.
FCRA Key Points and Amendments
- FCRA 2010: Regulates foreign contributions for NGOs and individuals, with registration required every five years.
- FCRA Amendment Act, 2020: Introduced stricter measures, including:
- Prohibition of foreign contributions for public servants.
- Mandatory use of State Bank of India accounts in New Delhi for foreign funds.
- Limitation of NGO administrative expenses to 20% of foreign funds.
Concerns with FCRA
- Vagueness: The definition of “public interest” in the FCRA is unclear, allowing broad discretionary powers to the government.
- Impact on Rights: The FCRA has raised concerns over potential infringements on freedom of speech and freedom of association (Articles 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(c)) under the Indian Constitution.
- Self-Censorship: NGOs may self-censor to avoid government scrutiny due to the strict norms.
Ministry of home affairs: Officeholders: Manish Tiwari (Joint secretary to the Government of India), Amit Shah (Minister)
16th ASOSAI Assembly Inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 16th Assembly of the Asian Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) on September 24, 2024, in New Delhi. The assembly focuses on the evolving role of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
Key Highlights
- Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, has assumed the chairmanship of ASOSAI for the term 2024-2027, with a focus on advancing public audit and governance frameworks in Asia.
Participation and Agenda
- The assembly, hosted by the CAG of India, brings together over 200 delegates from 42 countries and international organizations from September 24-27, 2024.
- Discussions will center on improving public audits, accountability, and best practices in government operations.
- A key symposium will address “Digital Public Infrastructure and Gender Divide – Issues of Inclusion and Accessibility,” exploring how technology can help bridge gender disparities in accessing public services.
Historical Context: Founded in 1979 with 11 members, ASOSAI now has 48 Supreme Audit Institutions and plays a significant role within the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). The first ASOSAI Assembly was also held in New Delhi in May 1979, making this year’s event a momentous return to its origins.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Inaugurates Sainik School in Jaipur, Rajasthan
On September 23, 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new Sainik School in Jaipur, Rajasthan, as part of the Government’s initiative to establish 100 new Sainik Schools across India through a collaborative public-private partnership (PPP) model. This effort aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster patriotism among youth.
Key Highlights
- Private Sector Leadership: Rajnath Singh emphasized the evolving role of the private sector in India’s economy, noting the shift from a traditional PPP model to a ‘Private-Public-Partnership’, where private entities take a leading role in initiatives like Sainik Schools.
- Holistic Education Approach: The Sainik School will provide academic and values-based education, focusing on discipline, patriotism, and courage, preparing students for military careers and other national service roles.
- Partnership with Shri Bhawani Niketan Shiksha Samiti: The Jaipur Sainik School was established in collaboration with Shri Bhawani Niketan Shiksha Samiti, as part of a broader strategy to develop 100 new Sainik Schools under the Sainik Schools Society, complementing the existing 33 institutions.
Ministry of defence: Officeholder: Rajnath Singh (Minister)
International news
US agrees to return 297 Indian antiquities during PM Modi’s Visit
The United States has committed to returning 297 stolen or smuggled Indian antiquities to India, following a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden on September 21, 2024. This significant agreement was highlighted during the 6th Quad summit in Wilmington, Delaware, where select artefacts were displayed to both leaders.
Background: Since 2016, the US has facilitated the return of 578 artefacts to India, reflecting a strong cultural collaboration. Notable returns occurred during PM Modi’s visits in June 2016 (10 artefacts), September 2021 (157 artefacts), June 2023 (105 artefacts), and now 297 artefacts in 2024.
Cultural Property Agreement: A Cultural Property Agreement was signed in July 2024 between the Archaeological Survey of India and the US State Department, ensuring the return of Indian artefacts specified in a designated list by the US government.
Details of the Returned Artefacts
The 297 artefacts span a time frame from 2000 BCE to 1900 CE and include:
- Apsara in sandstone (10-11th century CE, Central India)
- Jain Tirthankar in bronze (15-16th century CE, Central India)
- Terracotta vase (3-4th century CE, Eastern India)
- Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone (15-16th century CE, North India)
- Lord Vishnu in bronze (17-18th century CE, Eastern India)
- Anthropomorphic figure in copper (2000-1800 BCE, North India)
- Lord Krishna in bronze (17-18th century CE, South India)
- Lord Karthikeya in granite (13-14th century CE, South India)
- Stone sculpture (1st century BCE-1st century CE, South India)
- Lord Ganesh in bronze (17-18th century CE, South India)
USA:
- Capital: Washington, D.C.
- President: Joseph Robinette Biden
Jordan Becomes First Country to Eliminate Leprosy, Verified by WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized Jordan as the first country globally to have eliminated leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease. This significant achievement was announced after Jordan reported no locally transmitted cases of leprosy for over two decades.
Key Details:
- Verification Ceremony: The official verification was presented to Feras Ibrahim Hawari, Jordan’s Minister of Health, by Dr. Jamela Al-Raiby, WHO Representative to Jordan.
- Public Health Impact: This milestone is considered a crucial advancement in global public health efforts to eliminate leprosy.
About Leprosy:
- Nature of the Disease: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, affecting the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent disabilities, including damage to skin, nerves, limbs, and eyes.
- Neglected Tropical Disease: Leprosy is classified as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) and remains prevalent in over 120 countries, with more than 200,000 new cases reported annually.
- Curability: Leprosy is treatable with a regimen known as Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), which includes three antibiotics: dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine.
About the World Health Organization (WHO):
- Director General: Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
- Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
- Established: 1948
Defence news
Indian Army Hosts HIM DRONE-A-THON 2024 and HIMTECH 2024 in Ladakh
The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), hosted two significant events—HIM DRONE-A-THON 2024 and HIMTECH 2024—in Leh, Ladakh. These events aimed to leverage military technology for operations in High Altitude Areas (HAA) through innovative drone and technological advancements.
Event Details:
- HIM DRONE-A-THON 2024: Held from September 17 to 18, 2024, at Wari La, focusing on aerial, ground, water, and underwater drone capabilities in high-altitude conditions (4,000-5,000 meters).
- HIMTECH 2024: Scheduled for September 20 to 21, 2024, at Rinchen Auditorium Grounds, aimed at showcasing cutting-edge technologies.
Objectives of the Events:
- Analyze and compare the performance of various drone systems in real battlefield conditions.
- Recommend equipment for procurement that aligns with operational needs.
- Suggest improvements and modifications to enhance operational suitability for the Northern Command.
Key Highlights of HIM DRONE-A-THON 2024:
- Over 20 domestic drone manufacturers participated, demonstrating their capabilities in challenging terrains.
- Various drone applications were showcased, including Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Drones, Loitering Munitions (Kamikaze Drones), and water surface and underwater drones.
About FICCI:
- President: Dr. Anish Shah
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
- Established: 1927
These events are part of a broader initiative by the Headquarters Northern Command to reshape the annual North Tech Symposium for 2024, focusing on enhancing the Indian Army’s operational capabilities in some of the world’s most challenging terrains.
State news
Madhya Pradesh Conducts India’s First Paperless Election
The Madhya Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) successfully conducted India’s first paperless election as a pilot project during a Panchayat by-election in Ratua Ratanpur village, Berasia tehsil, Bhopal. This innovative voting process recorded an impressive turnout of 84%.
Key Features of the Paperless Election:
- Pilot Project: Implemented for the post of Sarpanch in Ratua Ratanpur village.
- Voting Process: The manual components of the voting procedure, traditionally done on paper, were computerized.
- Voter Identification: The new system utilizes thumb impressions and electronic signatures to ensure voter authenticity and eliminate proxy voting.
Benefits of the Paperless System:
- Real-Time Data Generation: Enhances the efficiency of data collection and reporting.
- Increased Accuracy: Reduces errors associated with manual processes.
- Reduced Human Resources: Streamlines operations, requiring fewer personnel for the election process.
- Improved Transparency: Facilitates clearer and more accountable election management.
- Smoother Election Processes: Minimizes delays and complications associated with traditional voting methods.
Appointment news
Kalikesh Singh Deo Elected National Rifle Association of India president
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) witnessed a historic leadership change with the election of Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo as its new president. The election took place during a General Body meeting at the Constitution Club, signaling a pivotal moment in the NRAI’s future direction.
Election Process
- The election was overseen by Retired Chief Justice of Rajasthan High Court, Anil Dev Singh, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
- Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo won the presidential race against V.K. Dhall, securing victory by a margin of 36-21 votes.
Alok Ranjan Appointed NCRB Chief
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) have new leadership with the appointments of senior IPS officers Alok Ranjan and Amit Garg, respectively.
- Alok Ranjan, a 1991-batch IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director of NCRB until June 30, 2026, succeeding Vivek Gogia.
- Amit Garg, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, will serve as the head of SVPNPA until October 31, 2027.
KVS Manian Assumes Office as Federal Bank CEO
KVS Manian has officially assumed the role of Managing Director and CEO of Federal Bank, effective September 23, 2024. He succeeds Shyam Srinivasan, who retired after leading the bank since 2010.
Background and Experience
- Previous Role: Manian brings over 25 years of experience from Kotak Mahindra Bank, where he significantly contributed to its evolution from a non-banking financial company to a prominent private sector bank in India.
- Educational Qualifications: He is an electrical engineer from IIT (BHU) Varanasi and holds a postgraduate degree in Financial Management from the Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies. Additionally, he is a qualified Cost and Works Accountant.
Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh Appointed as Next Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has appointed Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh as the next Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF), effective September 30, 2024. He will succeed the current Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, who is retiring upon superannuation.
Key Details:
- Current Position: Air Marshal Singh is currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS).
- Significant Achievement: He will become the fourth officer from the Sikh community to lead the IAF, following notable predecessors:
- Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh
- Air Chief Marshal Dilbagh Singh
- Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa
Award news
Odisha swimmer Pratyasa Ray to get Ekalabya Puraskar
Emerging swimmer Pratyasa Ray has been honored with the 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024 for her outstanding achievements in swimming, marking a significant moment for Odisha’s sporting community.
About Pratyasa Ray
- Background: Born in Bargarh district, Odisha, Pratyasa Ray has established herself as a promising talent in swimming.
Achievements
- 2024: Joint-Best Swimmer in the Women’s Open category, winning 6 Gold medals at the 64th Odisha State Swimming Championship.
- 2023: Secured 6 Gold medals at the 63rd Odisha State Swimming Championship.
- 2011: Achieved 4 Gold (50m butterfly, 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle) and 1 Silver medal in the sub-junior category of the State Swimming Championship.
- 2023: Won 2 Silver and 1 Bronze at the 2nd Odisha National Swimming Ranking Championship (Final).
- April 2023: Claimed 2 Silver medals in the Thailand Age Group Swimming Championships in the 50m and 200m backstroke events.
Prize Money: Pratyasa will receive a cash prize of Rs 7 lakh, an increase from the previous Rs 5 lakh, along with a citation during the award ceremony.
About Ekalabya Puraskar: Instituted in 1993 by the Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), the Ekalabya Puraskar is considered the most prestigious sports award in Odisha. It recognizes young sportspersons for their exceptional performance over the past two years.
Rhea Singha from Gujarat wins Miss Universe India 2024 title
Rhea Singha, a 19-year-old model from Gujarat, has been crowned Miss Universe India 2024 in Jaipur. She will represent India at the upcoming Miss Universe competition in Mexico.
Highlights
- Achievement: Rhea emerged victorious after competing against 51 candidates, showcasing her talent and grace.
- Judging Panel: The panel included notable figures such as Urvashi Rautela, Nikhil Anand, Vietnamese celebrity Nguyen Quynh, fashion photographer Rian Fernandes, and entrepreneur Rajeev Shrivastava.
Winning Speech
In her acceptance speech, Rhea expressed gratitude, stating: “I won the title of Miss Universe India 2024. I am so thankful. I have done so much work to get to this level where I can consider myself worthy enough for this crown. I am so inspired by the previous winners.”
About Miss Universe India: The Miss Universe India pageant is organized by the Glamanand Group, and it selects India’s official representative for the Miss Universe pageant each year.
Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies film Indian nominee for 97th Oscar Awards
The Hindi comedy film ‘Laapataa Ladies’, produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao and directed by Kiran Rao, has been designated as India’s official entry for the International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards (Oscars) scheduled for March 2, 2025, in Los Angeles.
Selection Process
- The film was selected by a 13-member jury from the Film Federation of India, led by renowned Assamese director Jahnu Barua.
- The committee reviewed 30 nominated films for the 2025 Oscars, including titles such as Hanuman, Kalki 2898 AD, and Salaam Bombay.
About ‘Laapataa Ladies’
- The film revolves around two young brides who accidentally switch places during a train journey.
- It satirizes the patriarchal system in India while promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in rural settings.
- Notable cast members include Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, and Ravi Kishan.
Indian Films at the Oscars
- A total of 57 Indian films, including ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ have been nominated in the International Feature Film category since its inception.
- Only three films have made the final list of Oscar nominees: Mother India (1958), Salaam Bombay (1989), and Lagaan (2001), with no wins in this category.
Oscar Awards and Indian Winners
- To date, 10 Indians have won Oscar awards, with Bhanu Athaiya being the first in 1982 for Best Costume Design for Gandhi.
- A.R. Rahman is a notable double winner in the Oscars, contributing to Indian cinema’s recognition on the global stage.
Serial No | Award Winner | Category | Film | Year |
1 | Mrs. Bhanu Athaiya | Costume Designing | Gandhi | 1982 |
2 | Satyajit Ray | Honourary Academy Award | – | 1992 |
3 | Resul Pookuty | Best Sound Mixing | Slumdog Millionaire | 2008 |
4 | A R Rahman | Best Original Score | Slumdog Millionaire | 2008 |
5 | Gulzar (Lyricist), A R Rahman (Music) | Best Original Song (Jai Ho song) | Slumdog Millionaire | 2008 |
6 | M. M. Keeravani (Music), Chandrabose (Lyrics) | Best Original Song (Nattu Nattu) | RRR | 2023 |
7 | Kartiki Gonsalves and Guneet Monga | Best Documentary (Short Subject) | Elephant Whispers | 2023 |
Sports news
India A are the Duleep Trophy season 2024-25 Champion
The India A team, captained by Mayank Agarwal, triumphed in the 2024-25 Duleep Trophy, defeating India C in their final round-robin match. With this victory, India A topped the points table, finishing the tournament with 12 points from three matches, securing the title in the 61st edition of the prestigious domestic tournament.
Tournament Overview
- Format: This year, the Duleep Trophy was played in a round-robin format, featuring four teams: India A, India B, India C, and India D. Each team played against the others once.
- Captains:
- India A: Mayank Agarwal
- India B: Abhimanyu Easwaran
- India C: Ruturaj Gaikwad
- India D: Shreyas Iyer
- Matches: Only one match was held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, while the remainder took place in Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh.
Points Table
- India A – 12 points
- India C – 9 points
- India B – 6 points
- India D – 6 points
Top Performers
- Top Run-Scorer: Ricky Bhui (India D) with 359 runs.
- Highest Wicket-Taker: Anshul Kamboj (India C) with 16 wickets.
About Duleep Trophy
- Instituted by the BCCI in the 1961-62 season, the Duleep Trophy honors Duleep Singh Ji, a former cricketer from the royal family of Nawanagar, Gujarat.
- Initially played in a Zonal format, it featured teams based on geographical regions, evolving to include various formats and team compositions over the years.
- The West Zone is the most successful side in the history of the Duleep Trophy, having claimed the title 19 times.