Current Affairs Dec 15-17, 2023

National news:

1. “PM Modi Inaugurates Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2023, Emphasizes Emotional Ties and Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat Spirit”

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the second phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam at Namo Ghat, highlighting the emotional and creative ties between Kashi and Tamil Nadu.
• The event serves as a platform for interaction between diverse walks of life in both regions, fostering unity and cultural exchange.
• PM Modi underscores the continuous strengthening of the Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat idea through initiatives like Kashi Tamil Sangamam and Saurashtra Tamil Sangamam.
• The use of Artificial Intelligence for live Tamil translations during the speech marks a significant technological milestone, indicating a new beginning for future engagements.
• PM Modi flags off the Kanyakumari – Varanasi Tamil Sangamam train and visits an exhibition at Namo Ghat showcasing the cultural confluence of Kashi and Tamil Nadu.
• Interaction with participants from Tamil Nadu and the presence of key officials, including Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, add significance to the occasion.
• The first batch of Tamil delegation, named after the sacred river ‘Ganga,’ arrives in Kashi to participate in the 15-day-long second phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam.
• PM Modi’s two-day visit to Varanasi includes the launch of 37 development projects and the flagging off of another Vande Bharat express train on Monday.

2. “EAM S Jaishankar Advocates Reforming United Nations, Criticizes Lack of Changes in UNSC”

• External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasizes the imperative need for reforming the United Nations Organisation.
• Speaking at the Rotary Institute event in Bengaluru, he likens the UN Security Council to an old club reluctant to admit new members and resistant to scrutiny, leading to diminishing effectiveness.
• Jaishankar highlights the global demand for reforms in the UN Security Council to address contemporary challenges, with India consistently raising the issue on the international stage.
• Addressing Indo-China relations, Jaishankar acknowledges the difficulties, attributing them to China’s failure to adhere to border agreements. Despite challenges, he expresses India’s desire for improved relations with China.
• On India’s goal to become a developed country by 2047, Jaishankar affirms that the nation is on a path of reforms, and the aspirations are attainable.

3. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar Inaugurates Atal Health Fair in Lucknow, Emphasizes Youth Health”

• Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurates the two-day Atal Health Fair in memory of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at PNT Ground in Rajajipuram, Lucknow.
• Dhankhar highlights Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership in Lucknow and the nation, emphasizing his enduring impact.
• Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, and MP Dr Dinesh Sharma attend the event.
• The Vice President emphasizes the importance of youth taking care of their health, stating that good health is crucial for optimal performance and achievement.
• Dhankhar urges the youth to adopt a nation-first approach, especially during Amritkaal.
• The Atal Health Fair features the participation of 48 government and private hospitals conducting medical camps, providing health services to the attendees.
• Capital of Uttar Pradesh – Lucknow.

Chief Minister – Yogi Adityanath.

Governor – Anandiben Patel.

4. “PM Modi Inaugurates Diamond Bourse in Surat, Highlights ‘Made in India’ as a Global Brand”

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the ambitious Diamond Bourse in Surat, emphasizing that ‘Made in India’ has become a powerful and influential global brand.
• PM Modi urges diamond industrialists to leverage the favorable environment, propelling the Indian Gems and Jewellery sector to new heights of development.
• The Diamond Bourse project symbolizes the strength and resolutions of New India, according to the Prime Minister.
• Despite India’s leading position in diamond cutting and exports, PM Modi acknowledges the need to increase the share of the Indian gems and jewellery sector in global exports.
• The newly built terminal and enhanced connectivity to Surat Airport are expected to significantly benefit the Diamond and Textile industries in Surat.
• PM Modi describes the Diamond Bourse project as a result of the “Modi guarantee,” highlighting its potential to connect Surat with 125 countries.
• The Central Government reaffirms its commitment to infrastructure development, as reiterated by Prime Minister Modi.
• Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel anticipates benefits for Surat’s industrialists and exporters from the diamond bourse project and the new terminal at Surat Airport.
• The Diamond Bourse is touted to be the world’s largest corporate office with state-of-the-art facilities, contributing to the growth of the diamond industry.
• PM Modi also inaugurates the new integrated terminal building at Surat Airport as part of the infrastructure development initiative.

5. “Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Encourages Youth to Build Developed India by 2047”

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urges youth to dedicate themselves to the goal of building a developed India by 2047.
• Addressing the graduation ceremony of Fatima Mata National College in Kollam, Kerala, the Minister emphasizes that the strength of the economy stems from the contribution of every citizen.
• Sitharaman encourages the youth to consider future opportunities and challenges in building a prosperous and well-being-oriented nation for all citizens.
• The Finance Minister highlights India’s success in navigating global uncertainties during the COVID-19 pandemic, crediting the talent of its people, particularly scientists and healthcare professionals.
• India’s response to the pandemic showcased its capabilities to the world, according to Sitharaman.
• The Finance Minister, on a one-day visit to Kerala, will also attend the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra event in Thiruvananthapuram later in the day.Top of Form

6. “Union Minister Gen. V.K. Singh Welcomes Supreme Court’s Judgment on Article 370 Abrogation, Emphasizes Unity of India”

• Union Minister of State for Highways and Road Transport, Gen. V.K. Singh, welcomes the Supreme Court’s judgment on the abrogation of Article 370, considering it a move to uphold the unity of India.
• Speaking in Kanyakumari, he emphasizes the importance of the Supreme Court’s decision in preserving the unity of the nation.
• Regarding the Parliament security breach issue, Gen. V.K. Singh mentions that a final decision on the matter will be deferred until the inquiry into the perpetrators in Parliament is complete.
• The Minister highlights the government’s commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to reach people at all levels through the implementation of various welfare schemes.
• Gen. V.K. Singh’s statements indicate support for the legal and constitutional aspects of the Article 370 abrogation and the government’s efforts to ensure national unity.

7. “Home Minister Amit Shah Emphasizes Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat for Achieving Vision of Developed and Self-Reliant India”

• Home Minister Amit Shah addresses the Centenary celebrations of Maharashtra Samaj at Tagore Hall in Ahmedabad, highlighting the importance of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.
• Shah emphasizes the expectation that every society preserves its culture and heritage while uniting for the upliftment of the country within the concept of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.
• Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah envisions India becoming the third-largest economic system in the world in the near future.
• The Home Minister praises the significant contribution made by the people of Maharashtra to the social and political development of the country.
• Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is present at the centenary celebrations, which span a three-day period, commencing on Friday.

8. “Supreme Court Refuses to Stay Allahabad HC Order on Survey of Mathura’s Shahi Idgah Complex”

• The Supreme Court rejects the request to stay the Allahabad High Court order that approves the survey of the Shahi Idgah on the disputed Krishna Janmabhoomi land in Mathura.
• Hindu outfits claim that the mosque was built on the birthplace of Lord Krishna and had demanded a survey, while the Muslim side had filed objections.
• Vishnu Shankar Jain, the lawyer for the Hindu side, announces that the Supreme Court has fixed the matter related to the challenge to the transfer order for January 9.
• The Allahabad High Court appoints an advocate commissioner and gives in-principle approval for surveying the Shahi Idgah complex.
• The modalities for the commission of advocates to conduct the survey will be decided on December 18.

9. “Cabinet Approves MoU Between India and Tanzania on Digital Solutions for Digital Transformations”

• The Cabinet is apprised of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of India and the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Information Technology of Tanzania.
• The MoU focuses on cooperation in sharing successful digital solutions implemented at population scale for digital transformation.
• It aims to promote closer cooperation and exchange experiences in digital technologies-based solutions, enhancing both Government-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) bilateral cooperation in the field of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
• The activities under this MoU will be financed through the regular operating allocations of both administrations.
• The MoU envisions improved collaboration, leading to employment opportunities in the field of information technology.
• The Cabinet is also apprised of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signed between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of India and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia.
• The MoC aims to strengthen collaboration in digitization, electronic manufacturing, e-Governance, smart infrastructure, e-Health, and e-Education.
• It promotes partnership in research in digital innovation and the use of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Robots, Cloud Computing, and Blockchain.
• The MoC establishes a framework for cooperation integral to the objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Capital of Tanzania – Dar es Salaam; Dodoma.

Currency – Tanzanian shilling.

Prime Minister – Kassim Majaliwa.

10. “Surat Airport Granted International Status, Unlocking Economic Potential”

• The Union Cabinet approves the declaration of Surat Airport as an International Airport, signaling a strategic move with significant economic potential.
• The decision aims to position Surat as a key player in the international aviation landscape, fostering economic growth and prosperity for the region.
• Surat Airport’s international status is expected to serve as a gateway for international travelers and facilitate seamless export-import operations for the diamond and textile industries.
• The move is seen as crucial for enhancing economic growth, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening diplomatic ties.
• Surat, a rapidly growing city in India, has demonstrated remarkable economic prowess and industrial development, making its elevation to international status a strategic imperative.
• With increased passenger traffic and cargo operations, the international designation of Surat Airport is expected to provide a significant impetus for regional development.

11. “Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates Three CGHS Wellness Centres and Robotic Unit in Delhi”

• Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates three CGHS Wellness Centres in Delhi located in Alaknanda, Rohini Sector-16, and Vasant Vihar.
• Additionally, the Minister inaugurates a Robotic Unit at the National Institute of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases in Delhi.
• Dr. Mandaviya highlights that these wellness centres, in addition to the existing 341 centres serving 44 lakh beneficiaries, will significantly enhance healthcare facilities.
• The expansion of CGHS coverage from 40 cities in 2014 to 80 cities presently, with plans to extend to 100 cities, reflects the government’s healthcare reforms.
• The goal is to ensure CGHS beneficiaries access healthcare services conveniently, reaching even the most remote areas of the country.
• Emphasizing the significance of the Robotic Unit, the Minister notes its role in providing optimum healthcare for tuberculosis patients.
• The government has adopted a multi-tier approach and revised package rates in empaneled private hospitals under CGHS to enhance beneficiaries’ access to quality healthcare.
• Dr. Mandaviya mentions the establishment of over 1.6 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across India, providing comprehensive treatments to the public.

12. “Nation Pays Homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on His Death Anniversary”

• The nation commemorates the death anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the Iron Man of India.
• Sardar Patel played a crucial role in integrating more than 500 princely states with India and served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and held the Home portfolio.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute, acknowledging Sardar Patel’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation’s unity, which laid the foundations of modern India.
• PM Modi highlights Sardar Patel’s exemplary work, serving as a guide for building a stronger and more united country.
• Home Minister Amit Shah and Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur also pay tributes to the visionary leader.

13. “Sheetal Nanda Flags Off 250 Children for “Watan Ko Jano” Youth Exchange Program”

• In Jammu and Kashmir, 250 children from all districts of the Union Territory have been flagged off to Jaipur and New Delhi for a 12-day exposure visit under the “Watan Ko Jano” Youth Exchange Program.
• The group, accompanied by 10 Coordinators/Caretakers, was flagged off by Sheetal Nanda, Commissioner Secretary of the Social Welfare Department.
• The program, organized by J&K Rehabilitation Council and Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to expose youth, especially those affected by militancy and children from specific homes, to the cultural and social diversity of the country.
• The youth exchange program provides recreational facilities, including a uniform kit, and intends to integrate the youth socially, culturally, and emotionally with the rest of the country.
• The program offers firsthand experiences of India’s diverse social and cultural heritage and technological progress to the participating youth.
• Capital of Jammu and Kashmir – Srinagar, Jammu.

Lieutenant Governor – Manoj Sinha.

International news:

14. “Tragic Shipwreck off Libya Coast Claims Lives of 61 Migrants, Including Women and Children”

• Sixty-one migrants, including women and children, drown in a tragic shipwreck off the coast of Libya.
• The boat, carrying approximately 86 people, departed from the Libyan city of Zwara, about 110 kilometers from the capital, Tripoli.
• The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Libya reports the incident, highlighting the dangers of the Mediterranean Sea route for migrants seeking a better life in Europe.
• The shipwreck on Saturday is the latest tragedy in the Mediterranean, with at least 940 migrants reported dead and 1,248 missing off the Libyan coast between January 1 and November 18, according to the IOM’s missing migrants project.
• Capital of Libya- Tripoli.

Currency – Libyan Dinar.

Language – Arabic.

Prime Minister – Abdul Hamid Muhammad Abdul Rahman al-Dbeibeh.

15. “Election Commission of Pakistan Summons PTI Members in Intra-Party Election Case”

• The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has summoned several members of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Monday in an intra-party election case filed by PTI founding member Akbar S. Babar.
• PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan, Chief Election Commissioner Niazullah Niazi, Secretary-General Omar Ayub, Punjab party President Yasmin Rashid, and other PTI members have been issued summons.
• A five-member bench of the ECP will hear the case, which comes after intra-party polls were organized by PTI on the orders of the ECP.
• Barrister Gohar Khan was elected unopposed as the Chairman of PTI, replacing former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
• Akbar S. Babar alleges irregularities in the party’s election, considering it a fraud, and has called for the creation of an intra-party election commission.
• He also expresses reservations about the upcoming General Elections in Pakistan, scheduled for early next year.

16. “Embassy of India Celebrates Veer Yodha Samman Diwas in Saudi Arabia”

• The Embassy of India in Saudi Arabia commemorates Veer Yodha Samman Diwas, honoring Armed Forces Veterans in a special event.
• The celebration coincides with the Punya Tithi of Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the eve of Vijay Diwas, symbolizing the Indian Armed Forces’ victory over Pakistan in 1971.
• The event features messages from Veterans sharing their experiences in the Forces, and a booklet with guidelines for Veterans is released by Ambassador Dr. Suhel Khan and Defence Attache Col G.S. Grewal.
• Ambassador Dr. Suhel Khan emphasizes the day’s significance, pays tribute to Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and acknowledges the valor and selfless service of the Armed Forces.
• The event includes a cultural program by schoolchildren and concludes with a reception, fostering camaraderie among Veterans, their families, and the Indian community in Saudi Arabia.
• This marks the second installment of Veer Yodha Samman Diwas, with a commitment from the Embassy to continue such initiatives, recognizing the contributions of Armed Forces Veterans and building stronger community bonds.
• Capital of Saudi Arabia – Riyadh.

Currency – Riyal.

Language – Arabic.

Prime Minister – Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

17. “Foundation Stone Laid for Shree Janata Belaka Secondary School’s New Building in Udayapur, Nepal”

• The foundation stone is laid for the construction of the school building of Shree Janata Belaka Secondary School in Belaka Municipality, Udayapur District, Nepal.
• The school building is being constructed with financial assistance from the Government of India under ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation’ at a cost of 3.79 crore Nepali Rupees.
• The grant will be utilized for the construction of a triple-storied school building with classrooms and other infrastructure facilities.
• The project aims to provide better education facilities for students and contribute to the development of education in the region.
• Dr. Narayan Khadka, Member of Parliament of Nepal, appreciates the continued developmental support from the Government of India.
• Shri Prasanna Shrivastava, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, Kathmandu, highlights the robust development partnership between India and Nepal and expresses the continued commitment of the Government of India for mutual benefit.
• The project is part of the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP), reflecting the ongoing cooperation between India and Nepal in various sectors.
• Capital of Nepal – Kathmandu.

Currency – Nepalese Rupee.

Language – Nepali.

President – Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

18. “20th Handicraft Trade Fair & 18th Handicraft Competition Inaugurated by President Ramchandra Paudel”

• The 20th Handicrafts Trade Fair and 18th Handicrafts Competition, organized by Nepal Handicrafts Federation, are inaugurated by President Ramchandra Paudel.
• The event coincides with the celebration of the 12th Handicraft Day in Kathmandu.
• President Paudel emphasizes that promoting the handicraft industry can enhance Nepal’s identity internationally and highlights the uniqueness of Nepali handicrafts based on ancestral skills.
• Nepal exports handicrafts worth Rs 12 billion annually to over 60 countries.
• The trade fair, running from December 14 to 18, aims to promote local handicrafts, raise awareness about artisans’ enterprises, and features three pavilions with 130 stalls showcasing various handicrafts.
• The fair includes displays of hemp items, stonework, metal sculpting, handloom, paper art, paubha paintings, thanga painting, pot art, bamboo art, and more.
• Organizers expect over 100,000 visitors during the fair, and a craft competition with cash prizes is part of the event.
• All India handicrafts week is celebrated every year all over the India by the people from 8th of December to the 14th of December.
• Capital of Nepal – Kathmandu.

Currency – Nepalese Rupee.

Language – Nepali.

President – Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Obituary:

19. “Government Declares One Day of State Mourning for the Late Emir of Kuwait”

• The Government announces one day of state mourning throughout the country as a mark of respect for the late Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who passed away on Saturday.
• The Ministry of Home Affairs confirms that the National Flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings where it is regularly displayed.
• As a gesture of mourning, there will be no official entertainment scheduled for the day, in accordance with the declaration by the government.
• Capital of Kuwait – Kuwait city .
• Currency – Kuwaiti dollar.
• Language – Arabic, English.

Awards:

20. “President Droupadi Murmu Welcomes Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, Emphasizes Strong Bilateral Ties”

• President Droupadi Murmu receives the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosts a banquet in his honor.
• Oman is acknowledged as India’s oldest strategic partner in the region and a cornerstone of its West Asia Policy by President Murmu.
• India recognizes and values Oman’s crucial role in fostering peace and stability in the region, and bilateral relations have become multifaceted.
• Trade and investment ties have grown steadily, with progress in culture, health, and education between India and Oman, according to President Murmu.
• Oman’s ‘Vision 2040’ and India’s ongoing growth journey provide a backdrop for extensive collaboration in strategic areas, says the President.
• President Murmu appreciates Oman’s valuable participation in this year’s G20 Summit under India’s Presidency.
• The Indian diaspora’s significant role in Oman’s development is acknowledged, with praise for their contributions to strengthening India-Oman relations.
• Both leaders agree that the visit lays a solid foundation for further strengthening bilateral ties, promoting regional stability, and fostering a new era of cooperation and progress.
• Capital of Oman – Muscat.
• Currency – Rial.
• Language – Arabic.
• Sultan – Haitham bin Tarik.

21. “Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremasinghe Awards Golden Owl Award to Three Indian Officers”

• Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremasinghe presented the prestigious Golden Owl award to three Indian officers during a graduation ceremony in Sri Lanka.
• The officers, Wing Commander Sumeet Mahajan, Major Rohit, and Lieutenant Commander Sunny Sharma, were undergoing the Command and Staff course at Sri Lanka’s Defence Services Command and Staff College in Colombo.
• The officers received the award for achieving the top position among the foreign student officers.
• The Golden Owl award recognizes excellence and outstanding performance in military education and training.
• The ceremony took place during the graduation ceremony, where officers from various countries were honored for their achievements in the course.
• This reflects the strong ties and cooperation between India and Sri Lanka in the defense and military education sectors.
• Capital of SriLanka – Colombo; Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte.
• Currency – Sri Lankan rupee.
• Language – Sinhala, Tamil.

Important days:

22. “India Celebrates Vijay Diwas, Honoring Victory in 1971 War Against Pakistan”

• Vijay Diwas is commemorated across the country on December 16 to mark India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war.
• The day pays tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 13-day battle that led to India’s triumph over Pakistan.
• The 1971 war resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, formerly known as East Pakistan, following India’s support for Bangladesh nationalist forces.
• On this day in 1971, Pakistan surrendered, and Bangladesh was formed as an independent nation.
• Vijay Diwas is a significant occasion to remember and honor the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces during the war.

Economy:

23. “Union Minister Piyush Goyal Highlights India’s Economic Growth and Infrastructure Transformation”

• Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasizes that India stands out as a bright star and has become the fastest-growing large economy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
• Speaking at the release of the Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) Report 2023 in Delhi, Goyal highlights the nation’s focus on the infrastructure sector despite volatility and uncertainties.
• The Minister notes a significant opportunity in the logistics sector, with the rapid expansion of railways, waterways, and the doubling of airports in the last decade.
• Goyal acknowledges a massive transformation in India’s infrastructure sector, describing the past decade as transformative.
• He attributes these positive changes to policy initiatives by the government, indicating a commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing the country’s logistical capabilities.

24. “Net Direct Tax Collection Surges 23.4% to 10.64 Lakh Crore Rupees Between April and November”

• The government’s net direct tax collection for April to November 2023 reaches 10.64 lakh crore rupees, accounting for 58.34 percent of the Budget Estimates (BE).
• The net tax collection for this period is 23.4 percent higher than the corresponding period of the previous year.
• Gross collections, before issuing refunds, show growth at 17.7 percent, reaching 12.67 lakh crore rupees in the April-November period.
• Refund amount issued during April to November stands at 2.03 lakh crore rupees.
• The expected direct tax collection for the current fiscal is 18.23 lakh crore rupees, with indirect taxes expected to contribute 15.38 lakh crore rupees.

Sports:

25. “India Defeats South Africa by 8 Wickets in Opening ODI”

• India secured a convincing eight-wicket victory against South Africa in the opening One Day International (ODI) of the three-match series in Johannesburg.
• Opting to bat first, South Africa managed a paltry total of 116 runs in 27.3 overs.
• Indian bowlers performed exceptionally well, with Arshdeep Singh taking five wickets and Avesh Khan grabbing four.
• Chasing the target, India reached 117 runs in 16.4 overs, losing only two wickets.
• Opener Sai Sudharsan contributed with a valuable 55 runs, and Shreyas Iyer added 52 runs, forming an 88-run partnership.
• Arshdeep Singh, with his impactful bowling performance, earned the Player of the Match award.
• KL Rahul led the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma, who is not part of the series.
• The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against South Africa.
• Capital of South Africa – Pretoria (administrative); Cape Town (legislative); Bloemfontein (judiciary)

Currency – Rand

Language – Afrikaans, English, Southern Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Swazi, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu.

President – Cyril Ramaphosa.

26. “Khelo India Games Scheduled for January 2024 in Tamil Nadu”

• The Khelo India Games are set to take place in Tamil Nadu from January 19 to January 31, 2024.
• The sporting event will be hosted in multiple cities, including Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Trichy.
• The Games will witness the participation of more than 5,500 athletes and over 1,600 coaches.
• Approximately 1,000 referees and 1,200 volunteers will contribute to the successful organization of the event.
• A total of 27 different sports will be featured in the Khelo India Games.
• Squash will be included in the Khelo India Games for the first time.
• The Games serve as a significant platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and compete at the national level.