Current Affairs Dec 28, 2023

National news:

1. “Rahul Gandhi Announces Caste-Based Census Plan at Congress Rally”

• Rahul Gandhi announced the Congress party’s commitment to conduct a caste-based census once in power during the ‘Hai tayar Hum’ rally in South Nagpur.
• Occasion: 139th foundation day of the Indian National Congress.
• Emphasized the need for a caste-based census, citing low representation of other backward classes across the country.
• Criticized the central government’s policies, alleging non-merit-based appointments of vice-chancellors in Indian universities, claiming ideological bias.
• Presence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states, national-level leaders, and office bearers.
• The rally named ‘Hai tayar Hum’ was held at a ground in South Nagpur.
• Accused the central government of silence on issues like inflation, unemployment, and criticized the suspension of MPs from parliament.
• Highlighted Congress workers’ widespread participation from across the country and the state.
• The Indian National Congress was formed on December 28, 1885.
• Annual celebration of the party’s foundation day.
• Rally featured a critical stance towards the current government’s policies and actions, with a focus on social and economic issues.

2. “Met Department Forecasts Dense Fog in Multiple States”

• Dense fog conditions predicted in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Odisha, Rajasthan, Delhi, and northeastern states.
• Minimum temperature in Delhi recorded at 8.4 degrees Celsius, causing dense fog and impacting visibility; 22 Delhi-bound trains delayed.
• Jammu and Kashmir experiencing minimum temperatures below minus-3 degrees Celsius, entering Chilla-i-Kalan, a 40-day harsh winter period.
• Chilla-i-Kalan characterized by freezing water bodies, including Dal Lake, and increased chances of snowfall.
• Srinagar and adjoining areas facing visibility below 50 meters for the second day due to dense fog.
• Transport Department issuing advisories for motorists, citing foggy conditions as the worst in recent memory.
• Punjab experiencing dense fog and bitter cold wave conditions, impacting normal life.
• Blanket of fog covering most parts of the state since late evening.
• IMD forecasting dense to very dense fog in some pockets of Uttar Pradesh and isolated pockets in Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi, Southwest Rajasthan.
• Dense fog conditions also expected in parts of Odisha, north Rajasthan, and northwest Madhya Pradesh today and tomorrow.
• Similar conditions anticipated in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura during morning hours for the next 3 days.

3. “Over 2500 SC Students Enrolled in Private Schools through SHRESHTA Scheme”

• The government announces the successful admission of over 2500 Scheduled Castes (SC) students in private schools through the SHRESHTA scheme.
• Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA).
• Aims to address service-deficient SC dominant areas by collaborating with grant-in-aid institutions and residential high schools.
• Focuses on providing high-quality education, fostering socio-economic upliftment, and ensuring overall development for SCs.
• The scheme has been modified to facilitate easier access for meritorious SC students to the best schools nationwide.
• Aims to contribute to the educational and holistic development of these students.
• Each year, a specified number of meritorious SC students will be selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA.
• The test is conducted by the National Testing Agency.
• Selected students through the National Entrance Test will be admitted to the best private residential schools affiliated with CBSE and State Boards.
• The scheme emphasizes not only educational advancement but also the overall development of the Scheduled Castes, contributing to their socio-economic upliftment.
• Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas’ (SHRESHTA). The primary objective of this initiative is to extend the influence of government development programs and address service gaps in regions predominantly inhabited by SC communities within the education sector.

4. “India’s Processed Food Exports Double, Boosting Employment in Food Processing Sector”

• India’s share of processed food exports in agri-exports has more than doubled, rising from around 13 percent in 2014-15 to over 25 percent in 2022-23.
• The food processing sector emerges as a significant employment provider, constituting over 12 percent employment in the total registered sector within the organized manufacturing sector.
• The food processing sector plays a vital role in augmenting farm income and generating off-farm jobs through investments in preservation and processing infrastructure.
• The government has implemented various initiatives to stimulate the development of the food processing sector in the country.
• The Ministry of Food Processing Industries reports substantial achievements in its schemes during the fiscal year 2023-24.
• The World Food India event held in November witnessed extensive participation from national and international stakeholders, featuring over 1200 exhibitors.
• Memoranda of Understanding valued at over 33 crore Rupees were signed during the event, signaling significant collaborations and investments in the food processing sector.

International news:

5. “Qatar Court Commutes Death Sentences of 8 Indians in Dahra Global Case”

• The Court of Appeal in Qatar has commuted the death sentences of eight Indians in the Dahra Global case.
• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has taken note of the verdict and awaits the detailed judgment.
• MEA is in close contact with the legal team and family members to decide on the next steps.
• Indian Ambassador to Qatar and officials were present in the Court of Appeal, demonstrating the government’s engagement.
• MEA has stood by the individuals since the beginning and will continue to provide consular and legal assistance.
• Eight former Indian Navy personnel associated with the private company Al Dahra were handed death sentences.
• Arrested in August last year on charges of alleged espionage.
• The Ministry reiterates its commitment to extending consular and legal assistance.
• MEA pledges to continue pursuing the matter with Qatari authorities.
• Due to the confidential and sensitive nature of the case proceedings, MEA refrains from making further comments at this juncture.
• Capital of Qatar – Doha.

Currency – Qatari riyal.

Language – Arabic.

Prime Minister – Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

6. “Chinese President Xi Jinping Asserts Inevitability of Taiwan Reunification”

• Chinese President Xi Jinping declares that the reunification of Taiwan with China is inevitable, reiterating Beijing’s longstanding stance.
• Xi makes these remarks during an address marking the 130th anniversary of Mao Zedong’s birth, founder of the People’s Republic of China.
• Significance arises as Taiwan approaches a crucial presidential election, with positions on China relations serving as a gauge of public sentiment.
• Taiwan is a self-ruled island democracy, while China considers it a part of its territory, and reunification has been a persistent claim.
• Xi’s statements align with China’s broader goal of enhancing global power and stature, asserting influence over regional dynamics.
• The timing of Xi’s remarks suggests an attempt to influence political narratives ahead of Taiwan’s critical presidential vote.
• Positions on relations with China often serve as an indicator of public sentiment regarding Beijing, making it a pivotal aspect of Taiwanese politics.
• Capital- Beijing.

Currency- Chinese Yuan.

Language- Mandarin.

President- Xi Jinping.

•       Capital of Taiwan – Taipei.

      Currency – Taiwan dollar.

      Language- Standard Chinese.

      Prime Minister- Tsai Ing-wen.

Appointments:

7. “Anish Dayal Singh Takes Helm at CRPF, Rahul Rasgotra Leads ITBP, Nina Singh Heads CISF, and Vivek Srivastava to Head Fire Services and Home Guards until 2025”

1.         Anish Dayal Singh (1988-batch IPS, Manipur cadre):

• Appointed Director General of CRPF.
• Previously headed ITBP.

2.         Rahul Rasgotra (1989-batch IPS, Manipur cadre):

• Appointed Director General of ITBP.
• Currently a special director in Intelligence Bureau (IB).

3.         Nina Singh (1989-batch IPS, Rajasthan cadre):

• Appointed Chief of CISF.
• Currently serving as Special Director General, CISF.

4.         Vivek Srivastava (1989-batch IPS, Gujarat cadre):

• Appointed Director General of Fire Service, Civil Defence, and Home Guards.
• Term extends until June 30, 2025, his superannuation date.

Important day:

8. “Indian National Congress Marks 139th Foundation Day with Mega Rally”

• Indian National Congress commemorates its 139th Foundation Day on December 28, 2023.
• The Congress launches its campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections with a mega rally named ‘Hain Tayyar Hum’ in Nagpur, Maharashtra.
• Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, along with former party chiefs Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, will address the rally.
• Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal announces that more than 10 lakh party workers from across the country are expected to attend the rally.
• The date, December 28, has witnessed major developments in the Congress’s long history since its formation in 1885.
• The mega rally marks the official launch of Congress’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, signaling a significant political event.

Sports:

9. “Australia Women Secure 6-Wicket Victory in 1st ODI Against India”

• In Women’s Cricket, Australia secures a 6-wicket victory against India in the first match of the 3-match ODI series at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
• Australia Women score 285 for 4 in 46.3 overs, successfully chasing the target set by India.
• India sets a target of 283 runs for Australia in the ODI match.
• Australia’s strong performance in the chase leads to a comprehensive victory in the opening match of the series.
• The 3-match ODI series continues with upcoming matches that will determine the overall winner.
• South Africa Secures 1st Test Win, Defeats India by Innings and 32 Runs:
• In Men’s Cricket, South Africa secures a victory by an innings and 32 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match test series against India.
• The test match was held at Super Sport Park in Centurion, South Africa.
• India was all out for 131 runs in their second innings on day 3 of the first Test of the two-match series of the Freedom Trophy.
• South Africa had earlier set a lead by scoring 408 runs in their first innings, establishing a lead of 163 runs.
• In their first innings, India was bowled out for 245 runs.
• South Africa’s victory in the first Test puts them in a favorable position, leading the series 1-0.
• The series continues with the second Test, offering an opportunity for India to level the series.
• Capital of Australia – Canberra.

Currency – Australian dollar.

Language – English.

Prime Minister – Anthony Albanese.

Obituary:

10. “PM Modi Mourns the Demise of Actor and DMDK Chief Captain Vijayakanth”

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses deep sorrow over the passing of actor and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) chief, Captain Vijayakanth.
• PM Modi acknowledges Captain Vijayakanth as a legend of the Tamil film industry, highlighting his charismatic performances that captured the hearts of millions.
• Describing Captain Vijayakanth as a political leader, PM Modi notes his deep commitment to public service, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of the southern state.
• The Prime Minister mentions having fond conversations with Captain Vijayakanth over the years, reflecting a personal connection.
• PM Modi expresses that the passing of Captain Vijayakanth has left a void that will be challenging to fill, acknowledging his significant contribution to the political arena.
• The Prime Minister extends his thoughts and condolences to Captain Vijayakanth’s family, fans, and numerous followers in this time of grief.

Agreements:

11. “India and Russia Sign Protocol on Consultations, Strengthen Bilateral Ties”

• India and Russia sign a Protocol on Consultations for the next four years (2024-28), focusing on advancing economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity, military-technical cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges.
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s official visit to Russia includes talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov.
• Discussions cover various topics, including economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity, military-technical cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, the Indo-Pacific region, Ukraine, and the Israel-Gaza conflict.
• Dr. S. Jaishankar meets Russian President Vladimir Putin, conveying warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussing further developments in bilateral ties.
• Dr. S. Jaishankar appreciates President Putin’s guidance on the development of bilateral ties during the meeting.
• Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasizes that India-Russia relations have been strong and steady, upholding the responsibilities of a special and privileged strategic partnership.
• Russian External Affairs Minister Lavrov highlights the historic and consistently progressing ties between India and Russia.
• Two significant agreements are signed to advance the implementation of Kudankulam nuclear power projects in India.
• Capital of Russia – Moscow.

Currency – Ruble.

Language – Russian.

Prime Minister – Mikhail Vladimirovich Mishustin.

Business:

12. “Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal Emphasizes Paper Industry’s Role in Circular Economy”

• Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal, addresses the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Paper Traders Associations in India (FPTA) in New Delhi.
• Goyal expresses confidence in the continued prosperity of the paper industry as the country experiences economic growth.
• Recognizing paper’s recyclable and sustainable nature, Goyal emphasizes its vital role in the circular economy.
• Acknowledges the integral role of the paper industry in carrying knowledge, history, literature, and serving various purposes in everyday life.
• Despite the digital era, Goyal notes that paper maintains prominence, offering accessibility and serving diverse purposes such as communication, branding, and packaging.
• Goyal assures that the government is actively supporting the business world and working to expand the economy.
• Outlines a strategic pathway for the industry, stressing the importance of integrated mills, economies of scale, and fostering innovation.
• Emphasizes sustainability, encouraging the industry to prioritize manufacturing from recycled materials and ensuring ecological balance through responsible practices.

13. “Coal production in India reaches over 664 million tonnes during the current financial year, indicating a robust 12.29 percent increase over the corresponding figure from the previous year”

• Cumulative coal dispatch during the same period surpasses 692 million tonnes, showcasing an 11.32 percent growth compared to the previous year.
• The significant increase in coal production and dispatch ensures a consistent and robust coal supply to meet the energy needs of the power sector.
• Overall coal dispatch to the power sector from April 2023 to December 25, 2023, sees an 8.39 percent increase, reaching over 577 million tonnes.
• The Ministry of Coal highlights the efficient coal supply chain, resulting in robust coal stock levels at various pitheads, showcasing the effectiveness of distribution nationwide.
• The Ministry assures ample coal supply to meet the growing energy demand in the country, reflecting its commitment to maintaining a steady and sufficient coal supply.
• The higher coal stock position is attributed to effective stock management strategies, operational efficiency, and a consistent coal supply to fulfill the energy needs of the power sector.

Miscellaneous:

14. “PM Modi Inaugurates Ayodhya Railway Station and Airport, Launches Projects Worth Rs. 15,700 Crore”

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, to inaugurate the redeveloped Ayodhya Railway Station, named Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station.
• Launch of new Amrit Bharat trains and Vande Bharat trains scheduled in the morning.
• PM Modi to dedicate several other railway projects to the nation during the visit.
• In the afternoon, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the newly built Ayodhya Airport.
• PM Modi to participate in a public program where he will inaugurate, dedicate to the nation, and lay the foundation stone for multiple development projects.
• The total worth of these projects is reported to be more than Rs. 15,700 crores.
• Projects include approximately Rs. 11,100 crores for the development of Ayodhya and its surrounding areas.
• Additional projects worth about Rs. 4,600 crores are related to various developments across Uttar Pradesh.
• The projects signify a comprehensive approach to development, covering transportation infrastructure, aviation, and various sectors contributing to the overall progress of Ayodhya and the state.