Current Affairs English
Swachhata Hi Seva – 2024″ launched by the Department of Financial Services (DFS)
The Department of Financial Services (DFS) has launched “Swachhata Hi Seva – 2024” to foster a strong commitment to cleanliness and sanitation. , “Swabhav Swachhta Sanskar Swachhata“ is the theme for this year. Through various activities and campaigns, DFS seeks to inspire individuals and organizations to contribute to the Swachh Bharat mission, initiated in 2014. To give wide impact to the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign, all branches have been requested to organise plantation drive and to set up outreach programmes for enrollment of Safai Mitras to government schemes. This initiative aims to raise awareness and encourage community participation in maintaining a clean environment to promote cleanliness and environmental awareness, the DFS has requested all organizations to set up exhibitions across more than 86,000 branches. These exhibitions will focus on themes like waste segregation at source, recycling techniques, and composting. NABARD and RRBs will organize Nukkad Natak (street plays) nationwide to highlight swachhata and financial literacy. Together, these initiatives aim to educate and engage communities in sustainable practices. District Managers are tasked with identifying and mapping black spots (unattended garbage dump areas) in their districts for transformation during the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. The goal is to successfully transform at least five black spots in each district, engaging bankers, volunteers, and community members in the effort. This collaborative approach aims to enhance cleanliness and create a positive impact in local areas. Between September 17 and October 2, 2024, financial institutions will host various events nationwide as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. Activities include: These events will be geographically mapped on a dedicated Swachhta Hi Seva portal, allowing citizens to participate in nearby programs. Join us in making a positive impact on our communities!
4th Global Renewable Energy Investor’s Meet and Expo (RE-INVEST) at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar in Gujarat 16 August 2024.
The Prime Minister of India inaugurated the 4th Global Renewable Energy Investor’s Meet and Expo (RE-INVEST) at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar in Gujarat 16 August 2024. It is 3-day summit honours the important contributors to India’s remarkable achievement of over 200 GW of installed non-fossil fuel capacity. There will be an exhibition which will showcase cutting-edge innovations from public and private sector companies, start-ups, and major industry players. This exhibition will underscore India’s commitment to a sustainable future. It will feature a conference attracting delegates from around the world. Attendees will engage in a comprehensive program including specialized discussions on innovative financing, green hydrogen, and future energy solutions. Germany, Australia, Denmark and Norway are taking part in the event as partner countries. Gujarat is the host state and Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh are participating as Partner States. “Gujarat was the first state in India to have its own Solar Policy, National policies on solar followed after this. Gujarat was one of the front runners across the world in setting up a ministry pertaining to matters of climate. India is the first G20 nation to achieve the climate commitments set in Paris, that too 9 years before the deadline. Indian Govt.’s “PM Suyra Ghar scheme” is becoming a medium to full India’s solar energy aim, “Every 3 kilowatts of solar electricity generated will prevent emission of 50-60 tonnes of carbon dioxide”. The Government had identified 17 such cities in India to be developed as solar cities in a similar manner like Ayodhya- a model Solar City, many facilities and houses of Ayodhya were energized by solar energy, while many solar street lights, solar intersections, solar boats, solar water ATMs and solar buildings. Indian Govt. has also a plans to make the agricultural fields, farms a medium of solar power generation. Source : PIB
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.
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
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
UNESCO adds Saint Hilarion Monastery to the list of World Heritage in Danger
GS- Paper- 1 Art& Culture Context- About Saint Hilarion Monastery Gaza’s “Tell Umm Amer” as a World Heritage site is significant for several reasons: The List of World Heritage in Danger Criteria for Listing– Entries on the list include World Heritage Sites facing either confirmed imminent threats or potential risks that could negatively impact their preservation, here is some criteria for listing:- The World Heritage Committee used the emergency inscription procedure provided for in the World Heritage Convention. Benefits of Inscription Impact and Criticism Conclusion:- Overall, this development is newsworthy because it underscores the importance of preserving global heritage amidst on-going conflicts and provides a platform for highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the region. Source- Indian Express, The Hindu, UNESCO Heritage Site
