August 2024
Union Education Minister Engages with PM SHRI Schools on 78th Independence Day
Students, teachers, and parents of PM SHRI Schools and alumni of Prerana Programmes were specially invited to attend the 78th Independence Day Celebrations in New Delhi today, showing priority of the government is to empower, encourage, and provide a vast range of valuable exposure to the Amrit Peedhi of the country. PM SHRI is a central sponsored scheme will showcase the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 and emerge as exemplar schools over a period of time, and also offer leadership to other schools in the neighbourhood. The duration of scheme is proposed to be from 2022-23 to 2026-27; after which it shall be the responsibility of the States/UTs to continue to maintain the benchmarks achieved by these schools. More than 20 lakh students are expected to be direct beneficiaries of the scheme. The total cost of the project will be Rs 27360 crore spread over a period of 5 years which includes central share of Rs 18128 crore. Under the scheme there is provision of setting up of More than 14500 PM SHRI Schools (PM Schools for Rising India) by strengthening the existing schools from amongst schools managed by Central government/State/UT Government/local bodies. ‘Prerana: An Experiential Learning program’ launched by Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India, aiming to offer a meaningful, unique, and inspiring experience to all participants, thereby empowering them with leadership qualities. Prerana is driven by a strong commitment to integrate principles of Indian education system and the philosophy of value-based education which is a corner stone of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This program is a week-long residential program for selected students of class IX to XII. It is an experiential and inspirational learning program for students with the best-in-class technology where heritage meets innovation. Prerana program is running from a Vernacular School, established in 1888, in one of the oldest living cities of India, Vadnagar, Mehsana District, Gujarat. A batch of 20 selected students (10 boys and 10 girls) will attend the program, every week from various parts of the country. The program’s framework aims to: Experiential learning is a philosophy and methodology that involves educators engaging with students in direct experience and focused reflection. This process helps students connect classroom knowledge and theories to real-world situations. Source :– PIB, Ministry of Education
DRDO carries out successful maiden flight test of Long Range Glide Bomb ‘GAURAV’ from Su-30 MK-I platform off Odisha coast
DRDO has carried out successful maiden flight test of Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), GAURAV from Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The test was conducted off the coast of Odisha. The GAURAV winged version glide bomb, developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, represents a significant achievement in India’s defence capabilities. Its ability to steer accurately towards targets using a hybrid navigation system combining INS (Inertial Navigation System) and GPS data makes it a formidable weapon for long-distance precision strikes with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing collateral damage. During the flight test, the glide bomb hit the target erected at Long Wheeler’s Island with pinpoint accuracy. Complete flight data during the test launch was captured by Telemetry and Electro Optical tracking systems deployed by Integrated Test Range along the coastline. The indigenous development of such advanced technology underscores India’s growing self-reliance in defence. India has developed and deployed glide bombs as part of its advanced military arsenal. Glide bombs are precision-guided munitions designed to hit targets with high accuracy over long distances. They are typically released from aircraft and use aerodynamic lift to “glide” towards their targets, extending their range beyond that of traditional bombs. Notable Glide Bombs in India: 1.Garuthmaa and Garuda Glide Bomb 2. Gaurav and Gautam Glide Bombs: SAAW (Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon): Strategic Importance: These developments reflect India’s growing capabilities in precision-guided munitions, enhancing the effectiveness and reach of its air force in modern warfare scenarios.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), created – Environment and Ecology Department (EED)
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the National Standards Body of India, has created a new department for standardization on issues related to environment and ecology named as Environment and Ecology Department (EED). To set a strong foundation for the future activities of this newly formed department, the Bureau organized a workshop titled ‘Standardization for Environment and Ecology’ on August 12, 2024. This workshop aimed to bring together experts, stakeholders, and policymakers to discuss and lay down the groundwork for developing and implementing environmental standards that will guide sustainable practices across various sectors in India. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) aims to create standards that not only serve India but also set benchmarks for the world. In line with this vision, BIS plans to host a series of seminars over the next two months, focusing on establishing itself as a leader in environmental standardization and contributing to global sustainability efforts. These seminars will bring together international experts and stakeholders to collaborate on setting high standards that promote sustainable practices worldwide. An environmental standard represents as a benchmark for determining acceptable levels of various environmental factors, such as emissions, pollutants, or resource usage. These standards are designed to guide policies, regulations, and practices towards sustainable development. They help ensure that economic activities do not exceed the carrying capacity of natural ecosystems, thereby safeguarding environmental health. By aligning with these standards, industries can enhance their international competitiveness while adhering to global sustainability goals. Source-PIB
PM releases 109 high yielding, climate resilient and biofortified varieties of crops and highlighted the significance of value addition in agriculture
PM of India released 109 high yielding, climate resilient and biofortified varieties of crops at research fields of India Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR), New Delhi on 12 Aug 2024. These crop varieties are developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The released 109 varieties of 61 crops including 34 field crops and 27 horticultural crops. Among the field crops, seeds of various cereals, including millets, forage crops, oilseeds, pulses, sugarcane, cotton, fiber, and other potential crops were released. Among the horticultural crops, different varieties of fruits, vegetable crops, plantation crops, tuber crops, spices, flowers, and medicinal crops were released,”. On this occasion PM emphasized the need to promote the nutritional benefits of millet, among the public, especially women. traders, hotel chefs, and startups to explore innovative avenues for enhancing millet production and consumption. Organic farming, natural farming and trend on believing nutritious food in public were the main discussion points. During the event, PM visited a field showcasing ‘Pusa 2002,’ a millet variety that matures in just 70 days, compared to the 110 days required by most other varieties. Among the millet varieties presented, “Pooja 1801” is exceptional iron and zinc content and received notable praise. there is a of hope that this variety could play a key role in combating child malnutrition, in partnership with the Ministry of AYUSH. Importance and impact of these new crop varieties on Indian sectors: High-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified crop varieties are having good scope of global food security, nutrition, and agricultural sustainability. Their economic impact is multifaceted, affecting farmers, economies, and global trade. 1. Increased Agricultural Productivity and Income 2. Resilience Against Climate Change 3. Improved Nutrition and Public Health 4. Market Opportunities and Export Potential 5. Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Challenges and Considerations High yield crops are crops which have high quantity of production per unit area for crop production. “Yields” mean “harvested production” per unit of harvested area for crop products. Climate resilient crops– Climate change is one of the challenges facing modern agriculture, compounded by the global population growth and soil quality deterioration. A climate-resilient crop is resistant to multiple stress factors, which can be abiotic, including both human-made and climate-driven factors, as well as soil-associated or biotic stress factors. Human activity generates greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide, that accelerate global warming, leading to climate change. This, in turn, could impact the frequency of extreme weather events and shifts in plant phenology. Human activity also influences the soil and exacerbates soil-associated stresses. Bio-fortification of crops- Bio-fortification is the process by which the nutrient density of food crops is increased through conventional plant breeding, and/or improved agronomic practices and/or modern biotechnology/genetic engineering without sacrificing any characteristic of that crop. Bio fortification is seen as an upcoming strategy for dealing with deficiencies of micronutrients in low and middle-income countries. Golden Rice, an example of biofortification using genetic engineering. The golden colour of the grains comes from the increased amounts of beta-carotene. In summary, high-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified crop varieties have the potential to significantly impact economies by enhancing productivity, ensuring food security, improving public health, and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. However, their success depends on widespread adoption, continued innovation, and supportive policies.
28th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organizations (CoCSSO) to be held on 12th-13th August 2024 in New Delhi
28th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organizations (CoCSSO) to be held on 12th-13th August 2024 in New Delhi. This Conference provides a platform for discussion and improved coordination between the Central and State Statistical agencies for enhancing the efficiency of the Indian Statistical System. “Use of Data for Decision Making- Strengthening State Statistical System” is the theme of 28th CoCSSO. Objectives The objectives of the conference are: The publication, ‘Women and Men in India, 2023’ will be released by this Ministry during the conference. The Conference of Central and State Statistical Organisations (CoCSSO) organized every year since 1971 when first CoCSSO was organised. Earlier it was supposed to be organized once in every two years. keeping in view the usefulness of the Conference, it has now been decided to have it every year. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation came into existence as an Independent Ministry on 15.10.1999 after the merger of the Department of Statistics and the Department of Programme Implementation. Central Statistical Organisation is the statistical arm of MoSPI. This ministry is the nodal agency for the planned and organized development of the statistical system in the country and coordination of statistical activities among different stakeholders in Government of India, State Governments as well as meeting requirements of the International Agencies. The publication “Women and Men in India” is prepared with the objective to provide variety of available gender statistics at one place to serve as a single platform for accessing gender statistics. The publication provides critical information through gender-equality indicators to help fast track progress in the country for a more gender-equitable society including those indicators in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Project PARI (Public Art of India)
The Ministry of Culture has started Project PARI (Public Art of India) on the occasion of 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from 21st -31st July 2024.. Project PARI (Public Art of India) aims to stimulate a dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, contributing to the dynamic cultural fabric of the nation. This initiative of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, is being executed by Lalit Kala Akademi and National Gallery of Modern Art, which intends to bring forth public art that draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of India while incorporating modern themes and techniques. Art is a vital medium to propagate and spread messages through creativity, hence the outreach of Public Art is immense and thought-provoking. It acts as a significant factor in giving visual recognition to a specific place. The public art augments and induces meaning to a public space making it an integral part of the culture and society. In this first big inaugural event of “Project PARI” more than 200 visual artists came together to create the various traditional artforms, wall paintings, murals, sculptures and installation such as Phad paintings, Thangka paintings, Warli art, Gond Art, Alpona art, Cheriyal painting, Tanjore paintings, Kalamkari, Pithora Art, Kerela Murals, etc on different themes. “Project PARI” not only highlights the aesthetic and cultural diversity of India but also aims to enhance Delhi’s visual and cultural landscape, contributing to a sense of pride and belonging within the community. 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee The 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee, hosted by India for the first time, was Organized from 21st to 31st July 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The tagline of the logo is सह नौ यशः which means in English as ‘May our Glory Grow’. “The tagline has been derived from the ancient Sanskrit scripture ‘Taitiriya Upanishad’ , 45th Session of the World Heritage Committee was held in Riyadh 10 September–25 September 2023. (Originally scheduled for 19 June–30 June 2022 in Kazan, Russia. But Postponed to an extended 2023 session due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine ) 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee is scheduled to hold in SOFIA capital city of Bulgaria. The World Heritage Convention 1972 and World Heritage Committee The World Heritage Committee stablished under the Convention of General Conference of UNESCO at its seventeenth session on 16 November 1972. Committee meets once a year It comprises representatives from 21 state parties that are elected by the General Assembly of States Parties for a four-year term. These parties vote on decisions and proposals related to the World Heritage Convention and World Heritage List. Note- According to the World Heritage Convention, a committee member’s term of office is six years. However many States Parties choose to voluntarily limit their term to four years, in order to give other States Parties an opportunity to serve. The World Heritage Committee is responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention, selects the sites to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger, defines the use of the World Heritage Fund and allocates financial assistance upon requests from States Parties. It has the final say on whether a property is inscribed on the World Heritage List. It examines reports on the state of conservation of inscribed properties and asks States Parties to take action when properties are not being properly managed. It also decides on the inscription or deletion of properties on the List of World Heritage in Danger.
Special Employment Guarantee Scheme
Context– The Ministry of Rural Development has implemented a range of strategies aimed at enhancing the economic well-being of rural populations. About Special Employment Guarantee Scheme (SEGS) Need of this Special Employment Guarantee Scheme Special Employment Guarantee Schemes (SEGS) are created to tackle specific employment issues experienced by different groups in society. These issues may include high unemployment rates, underemployment, or obstacles faced by marginalized communities in accessing job opportunities. Government Schemes/ Programme Indian Govt. and It’s all ministries implementing a number of targeted programmes/ schemes aiming to enhance the standard of living in rural areas by creating employment and livelihood opportunities. MNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.) Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kausal Yojna (DDU-GKY) and Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETI), which focus on improving employability through wage or self-employment, particularly for SCs/STs/OBCs/Minority communities. These initiatives contribute to the economic and social development of rural youth. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment’s Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampan Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana, aims to enhance skills among marginalized youth, including SCs, OBCs, De-notified Tribes, and Economically Backward Classes. The program offers both long-term and short-term training to boost skill levels and facilitate wage or self-employment, promoting empowerment and economic development. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship’s PMKVY offers skill training to youth, including SC/ST and economically weaker sections, through Short Term Training (STT) and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises’ PMEGP provides credit-linked subsidies to foster self-employment by supporting micro-enterprises and aiding traditional artisans and unemployed youth. Conclusion–
A Rising Power in Cost-Effective Healthcare and Global Pharma Leadership
16th edition of Global MedTech Summit 2024 organized by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on August 6th, 2024, in Delhi. Focus points of Global MedTech Summit-2024 The Global MedTech Summit 2024 is a prominent international conference focused on the medical technology (MedTech) industry. The summit aims to explore and discuss the latest trends, innovations, and advancements in medical technology, including emerging technologies, digital health, and new medical devices. It provides a platform for professionals from the MedTech industry, including manufacturers, researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers, to network and collaborate. Discussions often cover global regulatory standards, compliance issues, and how different regions adapt to new MedTech developments. The summit may also highlight investment opportunities in the MedTech sector, showcasing new startups and innovations seeking funding. India’s healthcare achievements Transformation in healthcare brought about the recent times- India’s emergence as a world-class, cost-effective healthcare destination and a global pharmaceutical leader can be understood through several key factors and trends: Cost-Effective Healthcare provider India is among the top 6 Bio-manufacturers of the world and one of the most cost-effective and efficacy-based Bio-manufacturing as well as cost-effective healthcare destinations. BIRAC-Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council as one platform for industry linkage and research. India provides high-quality medical services at a significantly lower cost compared to Western countries. This is due to lower operational costs, including salaries for medical professionals, which makes treatments and surgeries more affordable. The combination of quality and affordability has made India a hub for medical tourism. Patients from around the world visit India for various medical treatments, including complex surgeries, cosmetic procedures, and specialized care. Leader as Global Pharmaceutical India is one of the world’s largest producers of generic drugs, which are more affordable alternatives to branded medications. Indian pharmaceutical companies have established a strong presence in international markets by providing cost-effective, high-quality generic drug. India exports a significant portion of its pharmaceutical products to countries across the globe. The country’s pharmaceutical exports include both generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Indian pharmaceutical companies comply with stringent international regulations and standards, including those of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This ensures the quality and safety of the drugs produced and sold internationally. Many Indian pharmaceutical companies engage in global collaborations and partnerships for research, which enhances their ability to innovate and develop cutting-edge treatments. Indian pharmaceutical products are subject to rigorous quality control measures and are often manufactured in facilities that meet international Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Government initiatives for Healthcare sector- The Indian government supports the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors through various policies and initiatives, including investments in healthcare infrastructure, incentives for research and development, and support for medical tourism. Healthcare Vision :- Govt. aims for a healthy India by eliminating communicable diseases, preventing non-communicable diseases, improving health indices and commitment to accessible. This reaffirms the Govt firmly believes that accessible healthcare is a right of every citizen. Preventive healthcare is a national priority to achieve the vision India @ 2047. Preventive Healthcare:- Govt. Emphasis on addressing metabolic disorders and age-related morbidities like Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease, which pose significant challenges to the nation’s health and productivity. Space and Bio-technology Success – Success in the space and biotechnology sectors exemplifies integrated partnership. India opened the space sector led to over Rs 1,000 crore in private investment and a rise in start-ups from 1 in 2022 to over 200, some with global potential. Department of Biotechnology for its role in advancing translational health sciences, with bio-manufacturing and bio-foundry growing from $10 billion in 2014 to $130 billion in 2024. Medical Devices The medical devices sector is seen as a key growth area, with efforts underway to make India a manufacturing hub. This includes creating benchmarks and action plans. Technology Integration Technology plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to healthcare. Technology is revolutionizing the healthcare sector. Conclusion- India’s emergence as a world-class, cost-effective healthcare destination and a global pharmaceutical leader is marked by its significant advancements and strategic growth. The country’s ability to deliver high-quality medical services at lower costs has attracted international attention, while its pharmaceutical sector has become a major player on the global stage, known for its innovation and large-scale production capabilities. This dual success not only enhances India’s reputation as a hub for affordable and advanced healthcare solutions but also solidifies its position as a pivotal contributor to global health and pharmaceutical markets.
32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists Inaugurated by PM”
GS-PAPER- III/ Economy THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMISTS (IAAE) The IAAE is a worldwide professional membership association of agricultural economists, whose mission is to promote the common business interests of economists having as a major focus of their work the study of the economics of agriculture. IAAE is a growing network of agricultural economics professionals and practitioners from around the world. 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE 2024) The 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE), from 2-7 August 2024 in New Delhi, India. After the previous ICAE in 2021 had to be held virtually due to the COVID pandemic. Main point about ICAE 2024- About International Conference of Agricultural Economists Key highlights of the International Conference of Agricultural Economists Prime Minister’s Address Significance of International Conference of Agricultural Economists- India’s Achievements in the field of Agriculture: Agricultural production: Technological integration: Focus on Nutrition and Sustainability: India’s Global Welfare Commitment: Conclusion- The International Conference of Agricultural Economists in India was pivotal for advancing agricultural dialogue and cooperation. It showcased India’s use of its agricultural diversity and technology to address global food security and sustainability. The event facilitated valuable exchanges among experts, researchers, and policymakers, promoting collaborative efforts to enhance agricultural practices and policies. Source- PIB
“Empower HER: Fostering Women’s Business Ventures”
GS-PAPER-II/ Governance Context– Women Entrepreneurship Program (WEP) inspire women to start businesses. This leads to more job creation for women which ultimately helps in reducing the gender gap in the workforce, generating employment opportunities in the country, bringing in demographic shifts and inspiring the next generation of women founders. The increasing presence of women as entrepreneurs has led to significant business and economic growth in the country. With a vision to promote the sustainable development of women entrepreneurs for balanced growth in the country, Startup India is committed towards strengthening women entrepreneurship in India through initiatives, schemes, creation of enabling networks and communities and activating partnerships among diverse stakeholders in the startup ecosystem. In accordance with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) introduced the Women Entrepreneurship Programme (WEP), that is a public-private partnership platform incubated at Niti Aayog and aims to create an empowering, enabling ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, and spurring economic growth in India. About (WEP) Some other Government Initiatives for Women Entrepreneur Challenges Facing Women Entrepreneurs in India needs to Overcome:- National Skill Development Corporation Conclusion Women Entrepreneurship Programme is a crucial initiative for empowering women across India by providing essential skills, resources, and support. It addresses barriers such as limited access to credit and market opportunities through targeted training, financial assistance, and incubation support. Collaborations with various ministries and institutions enhance its effectiveness, promoting both self-employment and broader economic development while advancing gender equality. Source – PIB
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is organizing a one-day National Level Review-cum-Consultation on grievance redressed mechanisms developed in States and Union Territories under Section 32 of the RTE Act, 2009
Section 32 of RTE Act, 2009 provides for Redressal of Grievances relating to Right of a Child by the Local Authority within a period of three months, and appeal against the decision of the local authority before the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR). Grievances may relate violation of any of the provisions under the RTE Act and may be against any public officer, public servant, private institution, private person, or any other agency responsible directly or indirectly for the effective implementation of provisions of the RTE Act. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is organizing a one-day National Level Review-cum-Consultation on grievance redressal mechanisms developed in States and Union Territories under Section 32 of the RTE Act, 2009. This is first of its kind Review-cum-Consultation being organized by the Commission at the National Level. The aim for organizing this national Level Review-cum-Consultation on grievance redressed mechanisms- Key highlights Key challenges related to grievance redressed mechanisms under Section 32 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009: National Commission for Protection of Child Rights The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) was established by the Government of India under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, with the mandate to safeguard and advance child rights. The Commission is further mandated to monitor the proper and effective implementation of Conclusion, National Level Review-cum-Consultation organized by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of grievance redressal mechanisms under Section 32 of the RTE Act, 2009. The event highlighted both the progress made and the challenges faced in implementing these mechanisms developed by States and Union Territories, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and collaboration to ensure that the rights and grievances of children in the education system are effectively addressed.
“VIRAASAT: Celebrating India’s Handloom Heritage”
GS-PAPER- III/ INDIAN ECONOMY Context- Key highlights INDIA AND HANDLOOMS Need for such a move Conclusion– On-going support for exhibitions like “VIRAASAT” can enhance the market for handloom products and boost earnings for the handloom community. Expanding and effectively implementing government schemes to support handloom artisans can foster growth and sustainability within the sector. Raising awareness about the value of handloom products and encouraging their purchase can help preserve the handloom tradition. Combining modern technology with traditional handloom practices can enhance efficiency and innovation, ensuring the sector’s long-term viability. Source- PIB
