National news:
1)Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurates 5th Meghalaya Games in Tura, Meghalaya. Significance: First time the President of India inaugurates the event.
- Focus on Tribal Talent: President emphasizes support for talent from tribal areas. Recognition of the potential for tribal athletes to become professional sportspersons.
- Shift to Tura Venue: Departure from Shillong as the exclusive location for Meghalaya Games. Historical significance of hosting the 5th edition in Tura.
- Introduction of Traditional Indigenous Games: 5th Edition incorporates traditional indigenous games into the lineup. Promoting cultural diversity and preserving local sporting heritage.
- Multiple Historical Milestones: Unique edition with first-time Tura hosting, traditional games, and presidential inauguration. Reflects the evolving and inclusive nature of Meghalaya Games.
- National Recognition for Meghalaya Sports: President’s presence underscores the national significance of the event. Highlights Meghalaya’s growing role in the Indian sports landscape.
- Droupadi Murmu’s Vision for Sports: President Murmu’s address underscores the importance of sports development. Encourages a vision for nurturing talent and promoting sports at the grassroots level.
- Diversification of Sports Culture: Inclusion of indigenous games broadens the spectrum of sports culture. Fosters a sense of pride and inclusivity among diverse communities.
- Symbolic Start to 5th Meghalaya Games: Inauguration by the President symbolizes the nation’s commitment to sports development. Sets a precedent for future editions, reinforcing the event’s stature.
2) PM Modi Inaugurates NACIN Campus in Andhra Pradesh:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the new campus of the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes & Narcotics (NACIN) at Palasamudram, Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Sathya Sai district.
- Scheduled for January 16, the event marks a significant boost to the region’s educational infrastructure.
- NACIN, spread over 500 acres, is dedicated to capacity building in indirect taxation and narcotics control administration.
- The world-class training institute will cater to officials from the Indian Revenue Service (Custom & Indirect Taxes), central allied services, state governments, and partner nations.
- Represents a crucial step towards enhancing training facilities for officials involved in customs, indirect taxes, and narcotics control administration.
- The inauguration aligns with the government’s commitment to strengthening educational and training infrastructure for administrative services.
- NACIN’s expanded campus underscores the nation’s focus on skill development and capacity building in critical areas of governance.
3) Kerala’s Operation Amrith Against Antimicrobial Resistance:
- The Kerala Drug Control Department initiates Operation Amrith to combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- Operation Amrith stands for “Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health.”
- Aims to address the overuse of antibiotics by conducting surprise raids in pharmacies, specifically targeting over-the-counter (OTC) sales of antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription.
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to the ability of bacteria and microbes to resist drugs, posing a significant global health threat.
- AMR, termed a “silent pandemic,” caused around 5 million deaths globally in 2019, with 1.3 million directly attributed to it.
- The proactive initiative in Kerala aligns with global efforts to control and prevent the misuse of antibiotics.
- Focus on enhancing awareness, regulation, and enforcement to ensure responsible use of antibiotics for public health.
- Represents a crucial step in safeguarding public health by addressing the misuse and over-the-counter availability of antibiotics.
4) ‘Samavesha’ Initiative by I-STEM to Transform Research Collaboration:
- I-STEM’s Groundbreaking Initiative: The Indian Science, Technology, and Engineering facilities Map (I-STEM) announces the ‘Samavesha’ initiative to revolutionize research collaboration in India.
- Led by Principal Scientific Advisor: Spearheaded by the Office of Principal Scientific Advisor, Government of India, ‘Samavesha’ aims to facilitate easier access to scientific facilities and laboratories across the country.
- Inauguration at IISc, Bengaluru: The inauguration ceremony is set to take place at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, a prestigious institution at the forefront of scientific research.
- Optimizing Research Resources: ‘Samavesha’ core objective is to optimize the utilization of research resources on a nationwide scale, fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment.
- Enhancing Access to Scientific Facilities: The initiative focuses on enhancing accessibility to scientific facilities and laboratories, fostering a culture of collaborative research and innovation.
- National Scale Events in 2024: I-STEM plans to conduct approximately 50 ‘Samavesha’ events across India in 2024, creating opportunities for researchers and scientists to connect and collaborate.
- Promoting Interdisciplinary Research: ‘Samavesha’ aims to break barriers between different disciplines, promoting interdisciplinary research collaborations for addressing complex scientific challenges.
- Catalyzing Scientific Advancements: The initiative is expected to catalyze scientific advancements by providing a platform for researchers to leverage diverse expertise and resources available across the nation.
Defence: Historic ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’ Naval Exercise:
- Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) collaborate in the maiden bilateral exercise ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’ in December 2023.
- ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’ translates to ‘The Invincible One,’ highlighting historical and cultural ties between Ayodhya in India and Ayutthaya in Thailand.
- Maritime collaboration signifies the invincible spirit, connecting the ancient cities of Ayodhya and Ayutthaya.
- Indian Naval ships Kulish and IN LCU 56 participate in the inaugural edition, showcasing joint naval capabilities.
- His Thai Majesty’s Ship (HTMS) Prachuap Khiri Khan represents the Royal Thai Navy in the bilateral exercise.
- Exercise emphasizes fostering strong naval ties, mutual understanding, and cooperation between India and Thailand.
- The symbolic connection between Ayodhya and Ayutthaya adds cultural and historical depth to the naval collaboration.
- Represents a significant step in strengthening diplomatic and defense relations between India and Thailand.
Bankings news: Yes Bank Launches SmartFin for MSMEs:
- Yes Bank introduces SmartFin, an advanced digital Supply Chain Finance (SCF) platform, in a strategic move to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
- Developed in collaboration with Veefin Solutions, SmartFin reflects Yes Bank’s commitment to innovation and digital advancements, particularly in working capital efficiencies.
- SmartFin, powered by Veefin Solutions, offers an end-to-end digital SCF platform for MSMEs.
- The platform aims to enhance operational and financial efficiencies for all stakeholders involved in the supply chain.
- This initiative aligns with Yes Bank’s dedication to fostering the growth and development of MSMEs by providing innovative financial solutions.
- SmartFin is designed to streamline and digitize the supply chain finance processes, contributing to the ease of doing business for MSMEs.
- The move signifies a proactive approach by Yes Bank to leverage digital technology for supporting and empowering the MSME sector.
Economy:
1)Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation surges to a nine-month high of 0.73% in December 2023, rebounding from negative levels observed from April to October.
- The positive trajectory, following November’s 0.26%, is primarily attributed to significant increases in food prices, as reported by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Notable contributors to the spike in WPI inflation include food articles, machinery & equipment, other manufacturing, other transport equipment, and computer, electronics & optical products.
- The rebound in WPI reflects a recovery in economic activity and prices after a prolonged period of negative inflation.
- The Ministry’s statement underscores the impact of rising costs in various sectors, indicating potential challenges for policymakers in managing inflationary pressures.
- The data suggests a dynamic economic landscape, highlighting the need for a nuanced approach to monitor and address inflationary trends.
Important day: National Startup Day Proclaimed by PM Modi (2021):
- Historic Declaration (2021):
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi designates January 16 as National Startup Day, signifying India’s commitment to nurturing the thriving startup ecosystem.
- Significance of the Day:
- National Startup Day holds immense importance, providing a dedicated platform to celebrate and recognize the achievements of India’s startup community.
Rank and index: Strides in Poverty Alleviation: NITI Aayog Report (2022):
- Remarkable Progress: NITI Aayog report reveals that 24.82 crore people in India have successfully moved out of multidimensional poverty from 2013-14 to 2022-23.
- Substantial Decline: Multidimensional poverty reduces significantly from 29.17% to 11.28% during the stated period, showcasing a substantial decline.
- Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): MPI assesses deprivations in health, education, and standard of living, utilizing 12 sustainable development goals-aligned indicators.
- State-level Achievements: Uttar Pradesh leads at the state level with 5.94 crore people escaping poverty, followed by Bihar at 3.77 crore and Madhya Pradesh at 2.30 crore.
- Comprehensive Improvements: All 12 indicators, covering nutrition, mortality rates, education, and more, witness significant improvements, contributing to the overall decline in multidimensional poverty.
- Health and Education Impact: The decline in poverty is attributed to improvements in health and education outcomes, reflecting positive strides in human development.
- Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals: Progress aligns with the sustainable development goals, emphasizing a holistic approach towards poverty alleviation.
- Implications for Policy: The report underscores the success of poverty alleviation policies and highlights areas where continued efforts are needed for sustained progress.
- Positive Impact on Standard of Living: The substantial reduction in multidimensional poverty indicates a positive impact on the standard of living for a significant portion of the population.
Agreement news: India Secures Lithium Blocks in Argentina:
- Strategic Move: India secures exploration and development rights for five lithium blocks in Argentina, marking a significant step in reducing its ₹24,000 crore lithium import dependency.
- Second International Foray: This development follows India’s earlier partnership with Australia in 2022, representing its second international venture into critical minerals.
- Reducing Dependency on China: The move aims to reduce India’s dependence on lithium imports, a significant portion of which is sourced from China.
- Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL): Exploration and Exclusivity Rights granted to KABIL for five lithium brine blocks in Argentina, covering approximately 15,703 hectares.
- Key Blocks: The specific lithium blocks secured include Cortadera-I, Cortadera-VII, Cortadera-VIII, Cateo-2022-01810132, and Cortadera-VI.
- Strategic Resource Management: India’s focus on critical minerals aligns with strategic resource management, essential for advancing technology and sustainable development.
- Diversification of Supply Chain: Securing lithium exploration rights abroad supports the diversification of India’s supply chain for essential minerals, ensuring a stable and sustainable resource base.
- Economic Implications: The move has economic implications, potentially boosting India’s domestic lithium production and contributing to the growth of the electric vehicle sector.
Appointment: Vice Admiral AN Pramod Assumes DGNO Role: Vice Admiral AN Pramod takes charge as Director General Naval Operations (DGNO) on January 15, 2024, in a significant development.
Awards news: Deepa Bhandare: Trailblazer in Maharashtra’s Sugar Industry:
- Best Environment Officer Award: Deepa Bhandare of Shri Datta Cooperative Sugar Factory in Shirol taluka, Kolhapur, receives the prestigious Best Environment Officer Award.
- Historic Achievement: Bhandare creates history by becoming the only woman in Maharashtra’s sugar industry to receive this accolade, marking a significant milestone.
- Award Conferred by VSI Chairman: The award is conferred by VSI Chairman Sharad Pawar, recognizing Bhandare’s exemplary contributions in the field.
- Commitment to Inclusivity: Bhandare, upon joining the sugar industry, demonstrates commitment to inclusivity by initiating the construction of a ladies’ washroom at the sugar mill.
- Leadership in Environmental Stewardship: The award highlights Bhandare’s leadership in environmental stewardship, contributing to sustainable practices within the sugar industry.
- Role in Shaping Industry Practices: Bhandare’s actions go beyond her specific role, shaping industry practices and emphasizing the importance of inclusive facilities and environmental responsibility.
Sports: ICC Players of the Month – December 2023: Pat Cummins and Deepti Sharma Shine:
- ICC Men’s Player of the Month – Pat Cummins: Australia’s Pat Cummins earns the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for December 2023, capping off a stellar year.
- Exceptional Leadership and Bowling Prowess: Cummins played a pivotal role in Australia’s Test series triumph against Pakistan, showcasing exceptional leadership skills and bowling prowess.
- ICC Women’s Player of the Month – Deepti Sharma: India’s Deepti Sharma makes history by winning her maiden ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for December.
- All-round Excellence Across Formats: Deepti Sharma’s outstanding performances across all three formats, particularly against England and Australia, contribute to her well-deserved recognition.