Author: Balaguru Mamundi

National news

Centre Approves ₹1 Lakh Crore for PM-RKVY and Krishonnati Yojana to Boost Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security

The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) and Krishonnati Yojana (KY) to promote sustainable agriculture and achieve food security, with a total proposed expenditure of over ₹1 lakh crore. PM-RKVY will receive over ₹57,000 crore, while Krishonnati Yojana will be allocated ₹44,246 crore. These umbrella schemes aim to streamline various centrally sponsored agriculture schemes under the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, avoiding duplication and ensuring better convergence.

Key points:

• PM-RKVY includes programs like Soil Health Management, Rainfed Area Development, Agroforestry, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, and Per Drop More Crop.
• The rationalization offers states more flexibility in crafting agricultural strategies tailored to local needs.
• The measures are expected to increase farmers’ income and strengthen food security for the middle class.

Union Cabinet Approves ₹63,246 Crore Chennai Metro Phase-II Project, Expanding City Network by 119 Km

The Union Cabinet approved the Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-II, which consists of three corridors covering a total length of 119 km with 128 stations. The project will be completed by 2027 at a cost of ₹63,246 crore, expanding Chennai’s metro network to 173 km.

Key details:

• Three corridors:
  • Madhavaram to SIPCOT
  • Lighthouse to Poonamalle Bypass
  • Madhavaram to Sholinganallur
• The project will connect North to South and East to West in Chennai, enhancing the city’s infrastructure and transportation network.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that this development will significantly boost Chennai’s urban connectivity and mobility.

Cabinet approves India to Join International Energy Efficiency Hub by signing Letter of Intent

The Union Cabinet approved India’s decision to join the International Energy Efficiency Hub, a global platform aimed at fostering collaboration and promoting energy efficiency worldwide. This aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a low-carbon economy and improved energy security.

Key points:

• 16-nation group: India will gain access to strategic energy practices and innovative solutions from countries like the U.S., U.K., China, and Japan.
• India’s participation allows for collaboration with other member states, sharing expertise and learning from international best practices.
• The move strengthens India’s role in global climate change efforts by promoting energy-efficient technologies.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that India’s membership will enhance its global engagement on sustainable energy practices.

Launch of the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme: Empowering Youth with 1.25 Lakh Internship Opportunities

The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme has been launched as a pilot project aimed at providing 1.25 lakh internship opportunities to youth in India. Announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union Budget 2024-25, the scheme targets offering internships in the top 500 companies over five years, with a total budget of ₹800 crore.

Key Details:

• Implementation: The pilot will roll out in seven districts across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and Telangana.
• Internship Duration: Each internship will last for 12 months.
• Application Period: Candidates can apply for internships through the online portal pminternship.mca.gov.in from October 12 to October 25.
• Eligibility: Youth aged between 21 and 24 years, who are not employed full-time and not engaged in full-time education, are eligible to apply.
• Company Participation: Top companies were selected based on their average Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) expenditure over the past three years. Participation is voluntary, but other companies, banks, or financial institutions can join with approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

International Film Festival on Environment & Wildlife ‘Vatavaran’ Inaugurated

The International Film Festival and Forum on Environment and Wildlife, Vatavaran was inaugurated at Paryavaran Bhawan in New Delhi, featuring the theme “Wetlands for Life.” This three-day film festival aims to raise awareness about the conservation of wetlands, highlighting their ecological and economic importance.

Key Points:

• Importance of Wetlands: Jitendra Kumar, Director General of Forest in the Ministry of Environment, emphasized that about 6% of the Indian population relies on wetlands for their livelihoods, making their conservation crucial.
• Discussions and Strategies: Kumar hopes the festival will foster discussions on significant environmental issues and help formulate effective conservation strategies.
• Bilateral Cooperation: Taina Dyckhoff, Climate and Environment Head at the German Embassy, noted the successful collaboration between India and Germany in environmental and wetlands conservation, stating that film serves as a powerful medium to engage the public on these topics.

Ministry of environment: Officeholders: Bhupender Yadav (Union Minister), Kirti Vardhan Singh (Minister of State)

India Recognizes Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali as Classical Languages, Expanding Cultural Heritage

The Government of India has officially conferred classical language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, as recommended by the Linguistic Expert Committee, increasing the total to 11 classical languages in India. This decision was approved by the Union Cabinet on October 3, 2024.

Key Points:

• First Classical Language: Tamil was the first to receive this status in 2004.
• Criteria for Status:
  • Antiquity: Languages must have a recorded history of 1500-2000 years.
  • Ancient Literature: Must possess rich literature that is part of cultural heritage.
  • Knowledge Texts: Inclusion of prose, poetry, and inscriptions is necessary.
  • Distinctiveness: Should be distinct from later forms of the language.

List of Classical Languages:

1. Tamil (2004, Tamil Nadu)
2. Sanskrit (2005)
3. Telugu (2008, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana)
4. Kannada (2008, Karnataka)
5. Malayalam (2013, Kerala)
6. Odia (2014, Odisha)
7. Marathi (2024, Maharashtra)
8. Pali (2024, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh)
9. Prakrit (2024, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh)
10. Bengali (2024, West Bengal)
11. Assamese (2024, Assam)

Impact of Classical Language Status:

• National Awards: Potential establishment of awards by the Ministry of Education for classical languages.
• Academic Promotion: Universities may set up dedicated centers or chairs for these languages.
• Employment Opportunities: Anticipated job creation in academia and research sectors.
• Preservation and Digitization: Enhanced focus on preserving and digitizing ancient texts, generating jobs in archiving, translation, and digital media.

State news

Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka Sign MoU on Wildlife and Forest Management

On September , 2024, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on wildlife and forest management challenges. This agreement was made during an inter-state coordination meeting held in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.

Key Objectives:

• Strengthening cross-border conservation efforts.
• Mitigating human-animal conflicts.
• Promoting sustainable forest management practices.

Key Initiatives:

• Deployment of expert teams for elephant capture.
• Mahout training programs for managing elephant camps.
• Knowledge transfer on Standard Operating Procedures for darting and capturing animals.
• Workshops and seminars on animal nutrition and sustainable practices.

Andhra Pradesh:

• Capital: Amaravati
• Chief minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu
• Governor: Syed Abdul Nazeer

International news

Nepal to export 40 Megawatts of electricity to Bangladesh via India’s power grid

India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have signed a trilateral agreement to export 40 megawatts of electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh through India’s power grid. This landmark deal, signed in Kathmandu, marks the first time Nepal will sell electricity to Bangladesh, having previously only exported to India.

Key Details:

• Electricity Transmission: The electricity will be transmitted from Nepal to India via the 400 KV Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur cross-border transmission line, after which India will forward the equivalent amount to Bangladesh.
• Revenue: The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) estimates that the sale will generate approximately 330 million rupees for Nepal.
• Collaboration on Hydropower: In a related meeting, the countries agreed to collaboratively develop the Sunkoshi-3 hydropower project, with plans to finalize a joint venture agreement in the next meeting.

Nepal:

• Capital: Kathmandu
• President: Ram Chandra Poudel
• Currency: Nepalese Rupee

Banking news

3 new members appointed to the Monetary Policy Committee of the RBI

The Government of India has reconstituted the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), appointing three new members: Prof. Ram Singh, Saugata Bhattacharya, and Dr. Nagesh Kumar. This brings the total membership of the MPC to six, which includes three members from the RBI and three appointed by the government.

Key Points:

• Background: The MPC was established following the amendment of the RBI Act in 2016, with the first committee notified on September 29, 2016.
• Search and Selection Committee: The Search and Selection Committee, chaired by Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan, recommends members for the MPC. It includes representatives from the RBI and the Department of Economic Affairs.

Composition of the MPC:

• Members from RBI:

• Chairman: Dr. Saktikanta Das (Governor of RBI)
• Deputy Governor: Dr. Michael Patra (in charge of Monetary Policy)
• One RBI Officer: Nominated by the RBI Central Board
• Members Appointed by the Government:

• Prof. Ram Singh (Director, Delhi School of Economics)
• Saugata Bhattacharya
• Dr. Nagesh Kumar (Director, Institute for Studies in Industrial Development)

Term and Eligibility: The government-appointed members serve a four-year term and are not eligible for re-appointment. They can be removed on specified grounds or resign from their positions.

Functions of the MPC: The MPC is responsible for determining the RBI’s policy rates to meet the inflation target set by the government, which is reviewed every five years based on the Consumer Price Index.

RBI:

• Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata
• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Governor: Shaktikanta Das

Ranks and reports news

Transition to Renewable Energy in India: RBI Forecast

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projects that by 2030, fossil fuels will no longer dominate electricity generation in India, with renewable energy expected to exceed 50% of global electricity production. This shift is vital for achieving sustainability objectives and combating climate challenges.

Key Highlights:

1. Addressing Hard-to-Abate Sectors: Cleaner power generation will significantly impact challenging sectors such as steelmaking and aviation, where low-carbon alternatives are still developing.
2. Investment in Low-Carbon Energy: The RBI highlights that for every USD invested in fossil fuels, approximately USD 3 should be directed towards low-carbon energy initiatives over the next decade.
3. Tripling Renewable Capacity: To meet global net-zero emission goals by mid-century, tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030 is essential.
4. Cost of Decarbonization: The total investment required for a fully decarbonized global energy system by 2050 is estimated at USD 215 trillion.
5. Balancing Policies and Market Forces: The report emphasizes the need for a balanced approach between public policy interventions and market-based competition to facilitate a successful energy transition.

Award news

Alexander Dunn Awarded the 2024 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize

Alexander Dunn, a distinguished mathematician from the Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, has been honored with the 2024 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize by the Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. He is celebrated for his impactful contributions to analytic number theory, particularly his collaboration with Maksym Radziwill in addressing the Kummer-Patterson Conjecture, which explores biases in cubic Gauss sums.

Award Presentation: The award will be conferred during the International Conference on Number Theory at SASTRA University in Kumbakonam, Thanjavur, scheduled from December 20-22, 2024.

About Alexander Dunn: Alexander Dunn has made remarkable advances in mathematics, focusing on analytic number theory. His innovative work has significantly contributed to solving long-standing problems within the discipline.

About the SASTRA Ramanujan Prize

• Establishment: The SASTRA Ramanujan Prize was established in 2005 to honor young mathematicians making notable contributions to fields inspired by the legendary Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan.
• Eligibility: The prize is awarded annually to mathematicians under the age of 32.
• Cash Award: The recipient receives a monetary prize of USD 10,000.
• Previous Winner: In 2023, the prize was awarded to Ruixiang Zhang, an Assistant Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, USA.

Defence news

TASL and Moroccan Defence Forces Sign Major Armoured Vehicle Deal

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) has signed a contract with the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco to locally manufacture 150 Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) combat vehicles for Moroccan defense forces.

Key Details:

• Delivery Timeline: The vehicles will be delivered over three years.
• Significance: This is the largest deal for Indian-made armoured vehicles, both domestically and internationally.

About WhAP (Wheeled Armoured Platform):

• Design and Development: WhAP is an amphibious wheeled combat vehicle, developed indigenously in collaboration with DRDO and Tata Motors.
• Features:
  1. WhAP focuses on modularity, scalability, and reconfigurability, allowing it to perform various roles.
  2. It excels in difficult terrains, like muddy conditions, and can withstand mine blasts.
  3. Variants like the Infantry Protected Mobility Vehicle (IPMV) have already been inducted into the Indian Army and paramilitary forces.

Sports news

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Kicks Off Today in Sharjah

The ninth edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup kicks off today in Sharjah, UAE, with the opening match featuring Bangladesh facing off against Scotland, who are making their debut in the tournament.

Key Highlights:

• India’s Campaign: Captain Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the Indian team, which begins its campaign against New Zealand tomorrow.
• India vs. Pakistan Match: One of the most awaited matches, India vs. Pakistan, is set for Sunday.
• Live Commentary: Akashvani will provide bilingual Off Tube live commentary in Hindi and English for the matches on Friday and Sunday.

UAE:

• Capital: Abu Dhabi
• Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham
• Prime minister: Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

National news

Launch of Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA)

On October 2, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. This ambitious scheme has a total outlay of ₹79,156 crores, with the Central Government contributing ₹56,333 crores and the State Government contributing ₹22,823 crores.

Key Attendees

The event was attended by prominent figures, including:

• Shri Santosh Gangwar, Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand
• Shri Jual Oram, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs
• Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister of Women and Child Development
• Sh. Durgadas Uikey, Union MoS for Tribal Affairs
• Shri Sanjay Seth, Union MoS for Defence
• Senior officers from Central and State Governments

Vision and Objectives: The DAJGUA aims to address critical gaps in social infrastructure, health, education, and livelihood through 25 interventions led by 17 line ministries of the Government of India. The initiative seeks to ensure holistic and sustainable development of tribal areas and communities by promoting convergence and outreach.

Coverage: The Abhiyan is set to benefit approximately 5 crore tribal individuals across 63,843 villages in 549 districts and 2,911 blocks, targeting tribal majority villages and aspirational blocks in 30 States/UTs.

PM Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ Completes 10 Years

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s radio program, Mann Ki Baat, has reached its ten-year milestone today. Launched on October 3, 2014, on Akashvani, the program has become a significant platform for the Prime Minister to share his insights on various important issues, including social, cultural, environmental, and behavioral topics.

Highlights:

• Positive Impact: Over the decade, Mann Ki Baat has addressed numerous issues that have fostered positive change in the country.
• Citizen Engagement: The program serves as a crucial medium for interaction between the Prime Minister and the public, enabling citizens to share their thoughts and experiences.
• Celebration of Collectiveness: In last month’s episode, PM Modi described the journey of Mann Ki Baat as a “garland,” where each episode highlights new stories and achievements in society. He emphasized that the listeners are the “real anchors” of the show, recognizing their role in shaping its narrative.

Akashvani: Akashvani is the Hindi name for All India Radio (AIR), the national public radio broadcaster of India. It was established in 1930 and is part of the Prasar Bharati (Broadcasting Corporation of India) which operates radio and television services.

Historical Background:

• The first broadcast was made on 23 July 1927 from Bombay (now Mumbai).
• The term “Akashvani” translates to “voice from the sky.”

Functions of Akashvani:

• It broadcasts news, music, educational programs, and entertainment.
• It plays a significant role in promoting cultural and educational content.
• Akashvani also provides a platform for government announcements and public service messages.

National Integration:

• Akashvani has been instrumental in fostering national integration and unity through its programs in various regional languages, reaching diverse audiences across India.

Technological Advances:

• Akashvani has adopted modern technology and offers digital services, including podcasts and online streaming.

Navratri 2024, Festival of Nine Days

Navratri, a nine-day Hindu festival, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga in her nine forms. In 2024, Navratri will be observed from October 3 to October 12, with each day marked by special rituals, prayers, and festivities. This vibrant celebration includes fasting, dance, and devotion, making it one of the most significant festivals across India, uniting families and communities.

Significance: Shardiya Navratri, dedicated to Goddess Durga, symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is a vibrant celebration observed across India. This nine-day festival unites families and communities through rituals, prayers, fasting, and dance.

Key Dates:

• Pratipada: Thursday, October 3, 2024
• Dwitiya: Friday, October 4, 2024
• Tritiya: Saturday, October 5, 2024
• Chaturthi: Sunday, October 6, 2024
• Panchami: Monday, October 7, 2024
• Shashti: Tuesday, October 8, 2024
• Saptami: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
• Ashtami: Thursday, October 10, 2024
• Navami: Friday, October 11, 2024
• Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra): Saturday, October 12, 2024

Rituals and Traditions:

• Ghatasthapana: The festival begins with this sacred ritual, where a Kalash (earthen pot) representing Goddess Durga is placed and worshipped for nine days.
• Each day honors a different avatar of Goddess Durga, involving prayers, aartis, and mantra chanting.

Cultural Significance:

• Maha Navratri: The most significant of the four seasonal Navratris, celebrated in the autumn season during the Sharad Ritu.
• Devotees’ Aspirations: Participants seek blessings for prosperity, good health, and spiritual growth through the nine forms of Goddess Durga, collectively known as Navdurga.

International news

India Elected to the Steering Committee of GlobE Network (2024)

On September 2024, India was elected to the 15-member Steering Committee of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network) during its 5th plenary and 8th Steering Committee meeting in Beijing, China. This election enables India to contribute significantly to global efforts to combat corruption and facilitate asset recovery.

Key Points:

• India’s Role: India’s election allows it to play an active part in global anti-corruption efforts and enhance asset recovery mechanisms.
• G-20 Presidency Contribution: During India’s G-20 Presidency in 2023, two high-level principles for combating corruption were adopted, focusing on leveraging the GlobE Network.

About the GlobE Network:

1. Launch: Established on June 3, 2021, during the UN General Assembly Special Session against Corruption (UNGASS).
2. Members: Includes 121 countries and 219 member authorities.
3. India’s Representation:
   • Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) as the central authority.
   • CBI, Enforcement Directorate (ED), and Ministry of Personnel, Pension & Public Grievances (MoPP&P) represent India as member authorities.
4. Support: The network is supported by the United Nations Office against Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
5. Structure: Led by a Chair, Vice-Chair, and a 13-member Steering Committee, it serves as a platform for sharing best practices, criminal intelligence, and developing strategies against corruption.

Banking news

SEBI Amends Delisting Regulations for Equity Shares (2024)

On September , 2024, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced amendments to the Delisting of Equity Shares Regulations, 2024, allowing companies to delist their shares using a fixed price process as an alternative to the Reverse Book Building (RRB) method. This change aims to simplify the delisting process and enhance ease of business for listed firms.

Key Points:

• Fixed Price Process: Companies can now opt for a fixed price process for delisting, offering flexibility compared to the previously mandatory RRB process.
• Regulatory Basis: These amendments are in accordance with powers vested in SEBI by various sections of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 and the SEBI Act, 1992.
• New Name: The amended regulations are known as the SEBI (Delisting of Equity Shares) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024.

About SEBI:

• Established: Initially a non-statutory body in April 1988, SEBI became a statutory authority under the SEBI Act, 1992.
• Chairman: Madhabi Puri Buch
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra

IDBI Bank Launches ‘Sugam Rinn Bhugtan Yojana’ (SUGAM Scheme) for NPA Recovery

IDBI Bank has introduced the ‘Sugam Rinn Bhugtan Yojana’ (SUGAM Scheme), a One-Time Settlement (OTS) / Negotiated Settlement Scheme designed to recover non-performing retail loans. The scheme is available from September 2, 2024, to March 25, 2025, targeting distressed borrowers with outstanding principal amounts ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 10 crore.

Key Points:

• Objective: The scheme aims to assist borrowers in settling dues from loans classified as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) as of March 31, 2021, and continuing through August 31, 2024, avoiding legal complications.
• Payment Terms:
  • Borrowers must pay at least 10% of the settlement amount by December 31, 2024.
  • The balance is payable within 90 days of the Letter of Approval (LOA) without interest or by March 25, 2025, with interest based on 1-year MCLR (as of August 31, 2024) + 2% simple interest.
  • All payments must be completed by March 25, 2025.
• Ineligibility: Borrowers under vendor bill discounting, vendor finance, corporate guarantees, or cases under the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) are ineligible for the scheme.

About IDBI Bank:

• CEO: Rakesh Sharma
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Tagline: “Banking For All, Aao Sochein Bada, Bank Aisa Dost Jaisa”
• Establishment: 1964

Appointment news

MV Shreyams Kumar New President of Indian Newspaper Society

The Indian Newspaper Society (INS), a leading organization representing the print media industry in India, has announced significant leadership changes for the year 2024-25, signaling a new era in its mission to uphold press freedom and promote the interests of print media.

New President Elected: MV Shreyams Kumar, the Managing Director of the prominent Mathrubhumi newspaper, has been elected as the new President of the INS. With his extensive experience in media management and journalism, Kumar succeeds Rakesh Sharma of Aaj Samaj, bringing a fresh perspective and leadership style to the role.

Key Leadership Appointments

To support Kumar, the INS has established a strong leadership team:

• Deputy President: Vivek Gupta (Sanmarg)
• Vice-President: Karan Rajendra Darda (Lokmat)
• Honorary Treasurer: Tanmay Maheshwari (Amar Ujala)
• Secretary General: Mary Paul

Defence news

Arti Sarin ,first women and 46th DG of Armed Forces Medical Services

Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin became the first woman to head the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS). She assumed her office as the 46th DGAFMS on 1 October 2024, replacing Lt Gen Daljit Singh. Vice Admiral Arti Sarin’s appointment is seen as a boost to women’s empowerment in the Armed forces.

Significance of Appointment

Vice Admiral Sarin’s appointment is viewed as a significant advancement for women’s empowerment within the Indian Armed Forces. She is also a member of the National Task Force for the Safety of Medical Professionals, appointed by the Supreme Court.

Background and Career

• Education: Alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune.
• Commission: Joined the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985.
• Previous Roles:
  • Professor & Head of Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (R&R) and Command Hospital (Southern Command)/AFMC Pune.
  • Commanding Officer of INHS Asvini.
  • Command Medical Officer in the Indian Navy’s Southern and Western Naval Commands.
  • Prior to her DGAFMS appointment, she held the prestigious roles of DG Medical Services (Navy), DG Medical Services (Air), and Director & Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune.

About the DGAFMS: The Armed Forces Medical Services was established in 1948 after the integration of the medical wings of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, following the recommendations of the Dr. B C Roy Committee. The Director-General position can be held by a senior officer from any of the three branches, and currently, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin leads this essential organization from its headquarters in New Delhi.

Science and tech news

ISRO, IN-SPACE, and NSIL Sign 5 Technology Transfer Agreements with Private Entities

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACE), and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) have signed 5 Technology Transfer Agreements (TTAs) with Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs). This brings the total number of agreements signed post-space reforms to 75.

Key Points:

• Signatories: The agreements were signed with Anabond Limited, Salvo Industries Private Limited, Micropack Pvt. Ltd., and Astra Microwave Products Ltd at IN-SPACE in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• Government Initiative: These TTAs are part of the government’s initiative to allow private players access to ISRO’s advanced technologies, promoting innovation and enabling commercial applications in various sectors.
• Objective: ISRO, IN-SPACE, and NSIL aim to foster new ventures, increase private sector participation, and strengthen India’s position in the global space ecosystem.

Sports news

Dwayne Bravo Retires from Cricket and Joins KKR as Mentor

Dwayne Bravo, the 40-year-old West Indies cricketer and two-time Men’s Twenty20 (T20) World Cup winner, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, concluding a remarkable 21-year career in the sport. He had previously retired from international cricket in 2021. His last appearance was during the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), where an injury curtailed his performance.

Key Developments:

• Retirement: Bravo’s retirement marks the end of an illustrious journey in cricket, where he made significant contributions to the West Indies team and franchise cricket.
• New Role with KKR: Following his retirement, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), a franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL), announced Bravo as their new mentor, succeeding Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir, who captained KKR since 2014, has been appointed as the head coach of the India national cricket team for a three-year term (2024-2027).
• Previous Experience: Bravo has also served as the bowling coach for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL and will now extend his mentorship role to KKR’s global franchises, including those in CPL, Major League Cricket (MLC), and the International League Twenty20 (ILT20).

Books and author news

Arundhati Roy to Release First Memoir “Mother Mary Comes to Me” in September 2025

Arundhati Roy, the acclaimed Indian author and 1997 Booker Prize winner, is set to publish her first memoir titled “Mother Mary Comes to Me” in September 2025. The memoir will be published by Penguin Random House and is described as an intimate reflection on her journey as both a person and a writer.

Key Details:

• Inspiration: The memoir draws inspiration from the passing of her mother, Mary Roy, a prominent women’s rights activist, who passed away in September 2022.
• Global Release: The book will be published simultaneously in various countries, including the United Kingdom (by Hamish Hamilton), the United States and Canada (by Scribner), Germany (by Fischer), France (by Gallimard), Italy (by Guanda), Spain (by Alfaguara/PRH), the Netherlands (by Park Uitgevers), Sweden (by Bromberg), Finland (by Otava), and Norway (by Pax).

National news

BharatGen: India’s First Government-Funded Multimodal AI Initiative

On September 30, 2024, BharatGen was inaugurated in New Delhi, marking a significant step in India’s commitment to generative AI. The initiative aims to enhance public service delivery and citizen engagement by developing foundational models in language, speech, and computer vision. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for various portfolios, emphasized BharatGen’s role in positioning India as a global leader in generative AI, similar to the transformative impact of UPI.

Key Features:

1. Multilingual and Multimodal Models: Development of foundational AI models for diverse Indian languages and formats.
2. Bhartiya Dataset: Focus on creating and training AI systems with India-centric datasets.
3. Open-Source Platform: Promotion of an open-source ecosystem for generative AI research in India.
4. Data Sovereignty: Emphasis on collecting data that reflects India’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

Social Impact:
Designed to ensure generative AI serves as a public good, fostering social equity and cultural preservation. It aims to make AI accessible to various societal segments.

Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat:
BharatGen aims to develop AI models specifically for India, reducing dependence on foreign technologies and empowering local startups and industries.

Data-Efficient Learning:
Focus on developing effective AI models for languages with limited digital representation, promoting collaborative research with academic institutions.

Future Roadmap (until July 2026):
The project includes milestones for AI model development, experimentation, and establishing benchmarks tailored to Indian needs, facilitating broader AI adoption across industries and public initiatives.

Leadership:
The initiative is led by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), with contributions from institutions like IIIT Hyderabad and IIM Indore. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State, highlighted BharatGen’s potential to position India as a global leader in generative AI.

7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 closing ceremony held in Ranchi

The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 concluded on September 30, 2024, with a closing ceremony in Ranchi, Jharkhand, presided over by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi. The event was attended by Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar and other dignitaries.

Key Highlights:

• Launch and Duration: The campaign began on September 1, 2024, in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, led by Annpurna Devi and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel. It is held annually from September 1 to 30.
• Focus Areas: The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah concentrated on:

• Anaemia
• Growth Monitoring
• Complementary Feeding
• Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi (Nutrition and Education)
• Technology for Better Governance
• Environmental Sustainability through the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, encouraging tree planting at Anganwadi centers.
• Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam: Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 5, 2024, this campaign promotes environmental sustainability by encouraging tree planting.

About the POSHAN Abhiyaan:

• Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2018 at Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, the POSHAN (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition) Abhiyan aims to improve nutritional outcomes for:
  • Children under six
  • Adolescent girls
  • Pregnant women
  • Lactating mothers

Key Targets of the POSHAN Abhiyaan:

1. Reduce stunting in children (0-6 years) by 2% annually.
2. Reduce under-nutrition (underweight prevalence) by 2% annually.
3. Combat anaemia in children, adolescent girls, and women by 3% annually.
4. Reduce low birth weight by 2% annually.

Nodal Ministry:

The Union Ministry for Women and Child Development oversees the implementation of the POSHAN Abhiyaan in collaboration with state governments and Union Territories, aiming to reduce malnutrition and enhance the health of children and mothers across India.

Ministry for Women and Child Development- Annpurna Devi 

International news

Former Netherlands PM Mark Rutte Takes Over as NATO Secretary-General

Former Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte today took over as the Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in Brussels. He succeeds Norway’s Jens Stoltenberg, who had led the alliance since 2014. In his first press conference as Secretary-General, Rutte called on allies to significantly increase defence spending to meet NATO’s challenges. He also urged the alliance to enhance cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners.

NATO:

• Founders: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Italy 
• Founded: 4 April 1949, Washington, D.C., United States
• Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium

Sports news

India Shines at ISSF Junior World Championship: Parth Rakesh Mane Secures Double Gold in Lima

On the third day of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru, Indian shooter Parth Rakesh Mane achieved remarkable success, securing two gold medals in the 10m air rifle category.

Key Highlights:

1. Double Gold for Parth Rakesh Mane:

1. Parth claimed the individual title in the 10m air rifle, showcasing his exceptional shooting skills.
2. Following this, he teamed up with Ajay Malik and Abhinav Shaw to win the gold medal in the men’s team event, highlighting India’s strong teamwork and prowess in this discipline.
3. Additional Gold for Junior Women’s Team:
4. The Indian women’s team, consisting of Gautami Bhanot, Sambhavi Kshirsagar, and Anoushka Thakur, also excelled by winning the gold medal in the junior women’s 10m air rifle team event. This victory marked India’s third gold of the day and demonstrated the depth of talent within the Indian shooting contingent.
5. Bronze Medals in Mixed Events:

3. In the Air Rifle mixed event, the Indian duo of Gautami Bhanot and Ajay Malik clinched a bronze medal after a convincing 17-9 victory over Croatia. This achievement adds to the growing medal tally for India at the championship.
4. Additionally, in the Air Pistol mixed event, the pair of Lakshita and Pramod won another bronze medal by defeating Kanishka Dagar and Mukesh Nellavani with a score of 16-8. In this event, Germany secured the gold medal, while Ukraine took home the silver.

India maintains unbeaten record to win the Men’s SAFF U17 Championship

The Indian football team won the 2024 Men’s SAFF U17 Championship, defeating Bangladesh 2-0 in the final held on September 30, 2024, at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan. The Indian team, known as the Blue Colts, remained undefeated throughout the tournament.

Tournament Overview:

• Dates: The championship took place from September 22 to 30, 2024.
• Participants: Seven teams participated:
  • Group A: India, Bangladesh, Maldives
  • Group B: Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan

Performance:

• India defeated Bangladesh 1-0 and Maldives 3-0 in the group stage.
• In the semi-finals, India triumphed over Nepal with a score of 4-2.
• Bangladesh advanced to the final by defeating Pakistan in a penalty shootout (8-7).

Final Match Highlights:

• Goals:
  • Mohammed Kaif scored the first goal for India.
  • Mohammed Arbash secured the victory with a goal in the 95th minute.
• Captain: The team was led by Ngamgouhou Mate.

Awards:

• Player of the Tournament: Mohammed Arbash (India)
• Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Aheibam Suraj Singh

Historical Context:

India and Bangladesh have faced each other five times in the SAFF men’s age group tournament finals, with India winning four times (U18 in 2019, U20 in 2022, U16 in 2023, and U17 in 2024) and Bangladesh once (U16 in 2015).

About SAFF:

• Founded: The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) was established in 1997 and includes Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and later Bhutan.
• Tournaments: SAFF organizes senior and junior tournaments for both men and women, including U-16, U-17, U-19, and U-20 categories for men, and U-15 to U-20 categories for women.
• Headquarters: Dhaka, Bangladesh
• President: Kazi Md. Salahuddin (Bangladesh)

Defence news

Army Sports Conclave Hosted By Indian Army

The Army Sports Conclave, hosted by the Indian Army, emphasizes its vital role in shaping India’s sporting landscape as the nation prepares to host the 2036 Olympics. This event serves as a platform for collaboration and strategic alignment with various national stakeholders to bolster India’s aspirations in the global sports arena.

Key Highlights

Collaboration Partner

The conclave underscores the importance of partnerships with organizations like:

• Indian Olympic Association
• Sports Authority of India (SAI)
• National Sports Federations

These collaborations are aimed at devising strategies to enhance India’s performance on the world stage.

Indian Army’s Contribution to Sports

• Legacy of Tradition: The Indian Armed Forces have a rich history of contributing to India’s sporting achievements, especially in prestigious events like the Asian Games and the Olympics.
• Role in Sports Development: Recognizing the importance of sports in fostering national pride, fitness, and international recognition, the Armed Forces actively invest in nurturing athletes.

Sports Infrastructure and Initiatives by the Army

1. Mission Olympics Wing: Established in 2001, this initiative focuses on training athletes across 28 sports nodes, benefiting approximately 9,000 sportspersons.
2. Boys and Girls Sports Companies: In collaboration with SAI, there are 18 Boys Sports Companies and 2 Girls Sports Companies across India, aimed at developing young talent aged 9 to 16 years.
3. Paralympic Node: A specialized facility is in place to train and motivate disabled soldiers for participation in Paralympic sports.

Important days

International Coffee Day 2024: Celebrating the Global Coffee Culture

International Coffee Day, celebrated annually on October 1st, is a global event that brings together coffee enthusiasts to honor and appreciate their favorite beverage. The 2024 theme, “Coffee, Your Daily Ritual, Our Shared Journey,” emphasizes sustainable and ethical coffee practices while highlighting the importance of supporting the farmers who cultivate coffee crops.

Historical Background

• Origins:
  • The official recognition of International Coffee Day took place in 2015 during a significant meeting of the International Coffee Organization in Milan, Italy.
  • However, the celebration has earlier roots, with informal observances starting in the early 2000s. These grassroots celebrations helped build a community among coffee lovers, eventually leading to the formal establishment of the event.

Significance

International Coffee Day serves as a reminder of the social, economic, and environmental aspects of coffee production, encouraging consumers to choose sustainable coffee options and support fair practices within the industry. It celebrates the culture of coffee, its history, and the people behind the scenes who contribute to bringing this beloved drink to our cups.

International Day of Non-Violence 2024: Commemorating Gandhi’s Legacy of Peace

The International Day of Non-Violence is observed annually on October 2nd, aligning with the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, a pivotal leader in India’s independence movement and a champion of non-violent resistance. The observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly through resolution A/RES/61/271 on June 15, 2007, with support from 140 co-sponsors.

Core Objectives

The day serves two main purposes:

1. To disseminate the message of non-violence through education and public awareness.
2. To reaffirm the universal relevance of non-violence principles.

When introducing the resolution, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. Anand Sharma, highlighted the global respect for Gandhi and the lasting impact of his philosophy, quoting him: “Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.”

The Philosophy of Non-Violence

Definition and Principles Non-violence, or non-violent resistance, is a principle rejecting physical violence for achieving social or political change. It is often viewed as “the politics of ordinary people” and has been embraced in various global social justice movements.

Key Concepts

• Power Dynamics: A core tenet is that the power of rulers relies on the consent of the population. Non-violent movements aim to withdraw this consent, thereby undermining authority.
• Beyond Pacifism: Non-violence has evolved to encompass a broader range of social movements beyond mere opposition to war.

Categories of Non-Violent Action

Non-violent actions can be classified into three primary categories:

1. Protest and Persuasion: This includes peaceful public opposition, such as organized marches, vigils, public speeches, and demonstrations.
2. Non-Cooperation: This involves the withdrawal of social, economic, or political cooperation, manifested in boycotts, strikes, civil disobedience, and tax resistance.
3. Non-Violent Intervention: More direct actions that disrupt established systems, including peaceful blockades, occupations, and the creation of parallel institutions.

Gandhi’s Legacy of Non-Violence

Life and Leadership

Mahatma Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to non-violence defined his life, even amid oppressive conditions and violent opposition.

Historical Impact

• Civil Disobedience: Gandhi’s non-violent methods, exemplified by the Salt March of 1930, were crucial in leading India to independence and influencing civil rights movements globally.
• Philosophical Foundation: He believed that “just means lead to just ends,” emphasizing the importance of moral integrity in social struggles.
• Strategic Thinking: Gandhi understood that achieving a peaceful society through violence is inherently contradictory.

On 1st October IBBI to Celebrate Its 8th Annual Day

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) is celebrating its Eighth Annual Day on October 1, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone in the board’s journey, highlighting its achievements and contributions to insolvency resolution in India.

Event Details

• Chief Guest: Mr. Ramalingam Sudhakar, President of the National Company Law Tribunal, will deliver the keynote address.
• Annual Day Lecture: Mr. Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, will present the Annual Day lecture.
• Other Speakers: The event will also feature addresses from:
  • Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor, Ministry of Finance
  • Ms. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs
  • Mr. Ravi Mittal, Chairperson, IBBI

Highlights of the Celebrations

• Annual Publication: The release of a publication titled “IBC के आठवर्ष: शोध एवं विश्लेषण” to commemorate the occasion.
• National Online Quiz Awards: Recognition of winners from the 5th National Online Quiz on IBC with merit certificates, medals, and cash prizes.

About IBBI

• Establishment: IBBI was established on October 1, 2016, under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.
• Objective: The board is tasked with the implementation of the IBC, which consolidates and amends laws related to the insolvency resolution of individuals, partnership firms, and corporate entities in a time-bound manner.

Functions of IBBI

• Regulatory Oversight: IBBI regulates:
  • Insolvency professional agencies
  • Insolvency professional entities
  • Insolvency professionals
  • Information utilities
• Process Enforcement: It enforces rules governing:
  • Corporate insolvency resolution
  • Individual insolvency resolution
  • Corporate liquidation
  • Individual bankruptcy
• Eligibility and Curriculum: IBBI specifies minimum eligibility requirements for registration of insolvency professionals and agencies, along with curricula for qualifying examinations.
• Data Management: The board collects and maintains records related to insolvency and bankruptcy cases, providing critical information dissemination.