National news
Title: Honoring the Legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Advancements in Civil Registration
On October 31, 2024, Union Minister Amit Shah, heading the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of Cooperation, commemorated the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s “Iron Man,” by unveiling his statue at the Census Building in New Delhi. A symbol of national unity and dedication, the statue honors Patel’s legacy in India’s unification. During the ceremony, the MHA also launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile app to simplify the registration process for births and deaths, enhancing accessibility and efficiency.
The event also included the presentation of the ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ to 463 personnel from various states, Union Territories (UTs), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Central Police Organizations (CPOs) for their exemplary service.
Static Points on MHA:
Union Minister: Amit Shah
Constituency: Gandhinagar, Gujarat
PM Modi’s Strategic Development Push in Gujarat with Global Collaboration
On October 28, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Gujarat to launch a series of impactful projects, emphasizing India’s commitment to defense manufacturing, water conservation, and infrastructure development.
Key Highlights:
1.Inauguration of TATA Aircraft Complex in Vadodara: In a joint event with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, PM Modi inaugurated the TATA Aircraft Complex at the TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) Campus. This facility will manufacture C-295 aircraft, marking a milestone in India’s defense sector through international collaboration.
2.Bharat Mata Sarovar in Amreli: PM Modi inaugurated the Bharat Mata Sarovar at Dudhala, Amreli, developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model by the Government of Gujarat and the Dholakia Foundation to promote water conservation and sustainability.
3.Projects Worth Rs 4,900 Crore in Amreli: PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for projects worth around Rs 4,900 crore, focusing on enhancing the region’s infrastructure and supporting local development.
4.Pasavi Group Augmentation Water Supply Scheme Phase 2: The foundation stone was laid for this water supply scheme in Bhavnagar district, set to benefit 95 villages across Mahuva, Talaja, and Palitana talukas, addressing critical water needs.
Static :
- Prime Minister of India: Narendra Modi
Launch of “Srijan” GenAI Center and YuvAi Initiative to Propel India’s AI Landscape
IndiaAI, an initiative under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with Meta Platforms, Inc., has launched the “Srijan” Center for Generative AI (GenAI CoE) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur in Rajasthan. This center, named after the Hindi word “Srijan” (meaning “creation”), aims to drive India’s open-source Artificial Intelligence (AI) research, innovation, and skill development.
Key Highlights:
- Srijan Center for Generative AI: This center will focus on advancing India’s open-source AI landscape through research and innovation, fostering development in generative AI.
- YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building: Alongside the center, IndiaAI, Meta, and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) have introduced the YuvAi Initiative to train India’s youth in AI, strengthening the country’s AI talent pipeline.
Key Objectives of the Partnership:
- India-Specific AI Applications: Developing AI solutions that address India-specific needs.
- AI Skills for Youth: Equipping young professionals and students with vital AI skills.
- Technological Sovereignty: Enhancing AI capabilities in line with India’s goal of technological self-reliance.
Static :
- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY): Ashwini Vaishnaw
- Constituency : Odisha.
Introduction of Arjuna Award (Lifetime) and Enhancements in India’s Sporting Honors
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MoYAS) has announced significant changes in India’s sports recognition awards, effective from 2024. The Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement will be replaced by the Arjuna Award (Lifetime), aimed at honoring lifetime contributions to sports development. This change streamlines India’s sporting honors while maintaining a focus on excellence and dedication.
Key Highlights:
- Arjuna Award (Lifetime): Replaces the Dhyan Chand Award, recognizing individuals for their lifetime contribution to sports development.
- Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy: From 2024, the MAKA Trophy will be awarded to the University for Overall Top Performance in the Khelo India University Games, highlighting the contribution of universities to the Khelo India scheme.
About the Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award:
- Established: 2002
- Purpose: Given annually for excellence in Olympic, Paralympic, Asian, Commonwealth Games, and other disciplines.
- Award Components: Includes a statue of Dhyan Chand, a certificate, ceremonial dress, and cash prize of Rs 10 lakh.2023 Recipients: Former shuttler Manjusha Kanwar, ex-hockey player Vineet Kumar, and kabaddi player Kavitha Selvaraj.
Static :
UNION Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MoYAS): Dr. Mansuk Mandaviya
PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme: Financial Aid for Higher Education in India
On 6th November 2024, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme to provide financial support to meritorious students pursuing higher education in India. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the scheme offers collateral-free loans and interest subvention to ensure accessible education for students in public and private institutions.
Implementation and Management:
- Ministry Responsible: The Department of Higher Education under the Union Ministry of Education will implement the scheme.
- Unified Portal: Eligible students can apply for educational loans and interest subvention through the PM-Vidyalaxmi portal.
Key Features of PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme:
- Collateral-Free Loans: Students admitted to eligible institutions can access collateral-free, guarantor-free loans.
- Loan Coverage: Includes tuition fees and related educational expenses.
- Loan Guarantee: Loans up to Rs 7.5 lakhs are backed by a 75% government guarantee on outstanding loan defaults.
Static :
Union Minister of Education : Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
International news
India’s Low Rank in the Inaugural Global Nature Conservation Index 2024
The 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI), released on 24th October 2024, highlights India’s environmental challenges with a ranking of 176th out of 180 countries, scoring 45.5 out of 100. This low ranking reflects India’s struggles with inefficient land management and threats to biodiversity.
Key Highlights:
- Top Performers: Luxembourg leads with a score of 70.8, followed by Estonia (70.5) and Denmark (69.4) in 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.
- Worst Performers: India ranks among the bottom five countries, along with Kiribati (180th), Turkey (179th), Iraq (178th), and Micronesia (177th).
- Index Developers: This is the first edition of the NCI, created by the Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change (GSC) at Ben-Gurion University (BGU) of the Negev, in collaboration with BioDB.com.
About Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change:
- Headquarters: Israel
- Established: 2022
UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2024: No Progress in Limiting Global Warming
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)‘s “Emissions Gap Report 2024: No More Hot Air… Please!”, there has been no progress in limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as of 2023. The report reveals that the gap in policy implementation to meet the 2030 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) remains unchanged compared to the previous year.
Key Highlights:
- Global Warming on Track: The world is on pace to reach 3.1°C of warming by the end of the century, more than twice the target set in the 2015 Paris Agreement (to limit warming to 1.5°C).
- Temperature Increase by 2100: Without more ambitious commitments, global temperatures could rise by up to 2.6°C by 2100.
- Increase in Emissions: Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions rose by 1.3% in 2023, reaching 57.1 GtCO2e, compared to 2022.
About UNEP:
- Executive Director: Inger Anderson
- Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya
- Established: 1972
Zimbabwe Launches ZIMSAT-2 to Strengthen Space Programme
On 6th November 2024, Zimbabwe successfully launched its second satellite, ZIMSAT-2, from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s expanding space programme.
Equipped with a high-resolution multispectral camera, the satellite is designed to support critical applications in agriculture, resource exploration, environmental monitoring, and disaster management. It follows the success of ZIMSAT-1, which was launched in November 2022, showcasing Zimbabwe’s commitment to advancing its space technology and innovation.
Key Points:
- ZIMSAT-2 is the second satellite launched by Zimbabwe to enhance its space capabilities.
- The satellite is equipped with a high-resolution multispectral camera for various applications.
- It will assist in agriculture, resource mapping, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
- This launch follows the successful launch of ZIMSAT-1 in November 2022.
Donald Trump Wins 2024 U.S. Presidential Election
Donald Trump has secured a significant victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, winning 276 electoral votes, surpassing the required 270 to reclaim the White House as America’s 47th president. The victory was bolstered by a critical win in Wisconsin. In his victory speech in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump expressed his gratitude for the “extraordinary honor” granted by the American people, reflecting on his unique achievement as both the 45th and 47th president of the United States.
Static : About US
President – Donald Trump
Vice President – JD Vance
Currency – Dollar
Banking news
Key Announcements by Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made several important announcements aimed at strengthening financial stability and enhancing risk management in the sector:
- 25% Borrowing Requirement for NBFCs: RBI mandated that Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) ensure at least 25% of their borrowings come from the capital market. This move is part of the ongoing efforts to improve the financial stability of NBFCs.
- Interest Rate for GOI Floating Rate Bond 2034: The interest rate for the Government of India Floating Rate Bond 2034 (GOI FRB 2034) has been set at 7.53% per annum for the six-month period from October 30, 2024, to April 29, 2025.
- Increase in Gold Reserves: The RBI reported a significant rise in its gold reserves, which now total 854.73 metric tonnes as of September 2024, with 60% (510.46 metric tonnes) stored domestically within India.
RBI Static Information:
- Governor: Shaktikanta Das
- Deputy Governors: Swaminathan Janakiraman, Michael Debabrata Patra, M. Rajeshwar Rao, T. Rabi Sankar
- Established: 1st April 1935
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
European Investment Bank (EIB) Funds Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has approved a loan of 300 million euros (approximately Rs 2,800 crore) to support the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project (BSRP) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The project aims to develop a new 149-kilometer suburban railway network to improve connectivity across the city.
Key Features of the Project:
- Total length of the suburban railway: 149 kilometers.
- Rail corridors: The network will consist of four dedicated rail corridors for efficient urban connectivity.
- Stations and depots: 58 stations and two depots will be constructed to ensure smooth operation and maintenance.
Key Objectives: The project aims to shift from road to rail transport, encouraging more people to use trains rather than private vehicles or buses, contributing to reduced traffic congestion and environmental impact in Bengaluru.
About European Investment Bank (EIB Global):
- President: Nadia Calvino (Spain)
- Headquarters: Luxembourg
- Established: 1958
About Karnataka:
- Chief Minister: Siddaramaiah
- Governor: Thawar Chand Gehlot
- National Parks: Nagarhole National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kudremukh National Park
IDFC FIRST Bank Launches India’s First Real-Time Tracking for International Money Transfers
IDFC FIRST Bank, in collaboration with Swift, has introduced India’s first real-time tracking service for international money transfers. Available on the bank’s mobile app and internet banking platforms, this service offers end-to-end traceability for cross-border payments, providing customers with complete transparency throughout the transaction process.
This move highlights IDFC FIRST Bank’s commitment to its “Customer First” philosophy, bringing the speed and transparency of digital payments like UPI and IMPS to international transactions.
Key Features:
- First Indian bank to offer real-time tracking of cross-border transactions.
- Available on mobile app and internet banking.
- Provides complete transaction transparency with updates at every step.
About IDFC FIRST Bank:
· Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
· Established: 2015 (following the merger of IDFC Bank and Capital First)
· CEO: V. Vaidyanathan
· Tagline: “Customer First”
Economy news
India’s Defence Exports Surge to Record High in FY24
India has achieved a historic milestone in its defence exports, reaching a record high of Rs 21,083 crore in FY24. This represents a significant growth of 32.5% over the previous year, driven by strong demand from nations like the USA, France, and Armenia. Over the last decade, India’s defence exports have expanded by a remarkable 31 times, underscoring the country’s growing technological capabilities and its increasing prominence in the global defence market.
Key Points:
- Record Defence Exports: India’s defence exports reached Rs 21,083 crore (approximately USD 2.6 billion) in FY24, marking a 32.5% increase from FY23.
- Top Customers: The primary customers for Indian defence equipment were USA, France, and Armenia.
- Global Reach: India is exporting military equipment to over 100 countries worldwide.
- Growth Over a Decade: Indian defence exports have surged by 31 times over the past 10 years, compared to FY14.
UDCO to Provide Rs 11,000 Crore Loan for Amaravati Capital City Development
HUDCO, a public sector enterprise, has agreed to provide a loan of Rs 11,000 crore for the ambitious development of Amaravati as the new capital of Andhra Pradesh. This loan is part of a larger funding effort, with Rs 26,000 crore earmarked for the city’s construction, supported by additional loans from the World Bank and ADB. The project is expected to significantly transform the region, with strategic urban planning and infrastructure development set to shape Amaravati into a modern, sustainable capital.
Key Points:
- Loan Approval: HUDCO (Housing & Urban Development Corporation Limited) has agreed to lend Rs 11,000 crore to the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (AP CRDA) for the construction of the Amaravati greenfield capital city.
- Development Plans: Rs 26,000 crore will be available for the construction of Amaravati, with HUDCO’s contribution forming a significant part.
- Additional Funding: The World Bank (WB) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have also consented to lend Rs 15,000 crore for the Amaravati project.
Awards and Recognition
Bibhab Talukdar Receives Harry Messel Award for Conservation Leadership
Bibhab Talukdar has been recognized with the prestigious Harry Messel Award for Conservation Leadership by the IUCN for his significant contributions to wildlife conservation, particularly in Northeast India. His efforts, especially in Asian Rhino conservation and his leadership within IUCN, have earned him global recognition in the conservation community
Key Points:
- Award Recognition: Bibhab Talukdar, CEO of Aranyak, was honored with the Harry Messel Award for Conservation Leadership by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for his outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation.
- Award Ceremony: The award was presented during the 5th IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Leaders’ Meeting in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
- Leadership in Conservation: Talukdar has been instrumental in various initiatives to protect biodiversity, especially in Northeast India, and has led significant projects focused on wildlife protection.
About Bibhab Talukdar:
- Conservation Background: A prominent conservationist from Assam, Talukdar has been leading conservation efforts since 1991.
- Publications: He has authored over 70 scientific papers on conservation topics.
- IUCN Involvement: He has been part of the IUCN SSC since 1991 and became the Chair of the Asian Rhino Specialist Group in 2008.
- Asian Rhino Conservation: Talukdar organized three Asian Rhino Range States meetings to strengthen rhino conservation across countries.
About Harry Messel Award:
- Established: In 2004,
- Purpose: The award honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on global conservation efforts.
About IUCN:
- President: Razan Al Mubarak
- Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland
- Founded: 1948
OBITUARY
Padma Shri Awardee Gussadi Dance Master Kanaka Raju Passes Away
Kanaka Raju, an iconic figure in the promotion of Gussadi dance, passed away at the age of 84. His lifelong dedication to the art form earned him the prestigious Padma Shri in 2021. His legacy continues through his efforts to teach and preserve this folk tradition at his dance school in Adilabad, Telangana.
Key Points:
- Kanaka Raju, a celebrated Gussadi dance master and Padma Shri awardee, passed away at the age of 84 due to age-related health issues in his village of Marlavai, Telangana.
- Gussadi is a traditional folk dance of Telangana, typically performed by unmarried men during the Dandari festival.
- Kanaka Raju was born into the Raj Gond tribe and began learning Gussadi dance at the age of eight. He dedicated over four decades to preserving and promoting this unique dance form.
- In 2021, he was honored with the Padma Shri (Art) award for his significant contribution to popularizing the Gussadi dance at the national and international levels.
- In 2022, he was appointed as the Chief Dance Master at the Kanaka Raju School of Gussadi Dance in Adilabad, Telangana.
BOOKS AND AUTHORS
New Book “Mountain Mammals of the World” by Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh Launched in Delhi
Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh’s new book “Mountain Mammals of the World” provides an in-depth look at the diverse mammal species found in mountainous regions globally. Launched in New Delhi, the book showcases the author’s extensive knowledge and contributions to wildlife conservation. With 62 species and 78 subspecies featured, it serves as an important resource for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Key Points:
- Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh, a member of the royal family of Wankaaner, Gujarat, has launched his 4th book titled “Mountain Mammals of the World”.
- The book is a definitive guide to the larger mammals found in the world’s mountain regions, covering 62 species and 78 subspecies, with stunning photographs.
- The book was launched by Dr. Karan Singh, former politician and Padma Vibhushan awardee, at the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in New Delhi.
- Jigme Jungney, a representative of the Dalai Lama, and Ravi Singh, Secretary General and CEO of WWF-India, were present at the launch event.
- Dr. Ranjitsinh is a former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer and has made significant contributions to India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. He has also served as Chairman of the Wildlife Trust of India and Regional Coordinator of WWF Tiger Conservation Programme.
IMPORTANT DAYS
World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) – 5 November
World Tsunami Awareness Day is observed on 5 November every year to raise global awareness about tsunamis, focusing on disaster preparedness, safety measures, and early warning systems. Established by the United Nations in 2015, this day highlights the importance of educating youth and future generations about tsunami risks and preparedness strategies. The IOC-UNESCO plays a pivotal role in supporting this global initiative.
Key Points:
- World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) is observed annually on 5 November to raise awareness of the destructive impacts of tsunamis.
- The day promotes understanding of safety measures and the implementation of early warning systems to mitigate tsunami disasters.
- Theme for 2024: “Youth and Future Generations”.
- The observance of WTAD is facilitated by the UN Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), in collaboration with other UN systems.
- UNGA Resolution A/RES/70/203 adopted on 22 December 2015 established 5 November as World Tsunami Awareness Day.
- The first WTAD was observed on 5 November 2016.
About IOC-UNESCO:
- Executive Secretary: Vidar Helgesen
- Member States: 150
- Headquarters: Paris, France
STATE NEWS
Telangana Declares ‘Sadar Sammelan’ as State Festival
1st November 2024, Telangana officially declared Sadar Sammelan as a state festival. Celebrated two days after Diwali, this vibrant festival, which has been held since 1946 by the Yadav community, includes a procession of decorated buffaloes. The Youth Advancement, Tourism, and Culture Department will oversee its organization and funding, and the state has directed GHMC and District Collectors to ensure its celebration every year.
Key Points:
- Sadar Sammelan has been officially declared as a state festival of Telangana by Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari on 1st November 2024.
- The festival is celebrated two days after Diwali and has been organized by the Yadav community since 1946.
- Youth Advancement, Tourism, and Culture Department is responsible for organizing and funding the festival.
- The celebration includes a grand procession of decorated buffaloes, symbolizing pride and devotion.
- The state government has directed GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) and all District Collectors (except Hyderabad District) to celebrate the festival annually.
STATIC :
· Chief Minister: K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR)
· Governor: Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan
· Capital: Hyderabad
· Important National Parks:
- Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary (A UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (One of the largest tiger reserves in India)
- Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
