Assam and NE Current Affairs & GK- August 10-12, 2024
(Covers all important Current Affairs & GK topics for August 10-12, 2024)
Five Assamese movies Shines at 70th National Film Awards
Five Assamese movies Shines at 70th National Film Awards. Three films from Assam bagged Rajat Kamal and two other films from the state got certificates of special mention at the 70th National Film Awards for the year 2024.
Key Points
Emuthi Puthi (A very fishy trip), produced by Metanormal Motion Pictures Pvt. Ltd. and directed by Kulanandini Mahanta, bagged the Rajat Kamal Award as the best Assamese film.
Sikaisal (if only trees could talk) also bagged the Rajat Kamal Award as the best Tiwa film.
Xunyota (void) also got the Rajat Kamal Award as the best short film (up to 30 minutes).
Two other non-feature category films from Assam—Birubala ‘Witch to Padmashri’ produced by Aimee Baruah Production Society and directed by Aimee Baruah and
Hargila—The Greater Adjutant Stork, produced by PI Entertainment and directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta—got certificates of special mention.
MEA and NSIL sign MoU for grant assistance for the launch of Munal satellite
An MoU was signed between India’s Ministry of External Affairs and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to launch Nepal’s Munal satellite.
AboutMunal satellite
Munal Satellite is an indigenous satellite developed in Nepal, under the aegis of NAST. APN, a Nepali space startup, has assisted Nepali students in the design and fabrication of this satellite.
The satellite aims to build a vegetation density database of the Earth’s surface.
This satellite is expected to be launched soon on NSIL’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle.
Largest-ever Kashmiri folk dance at ‘Kashur Riwaaj’ cultural festival
Youth of Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district created a world record by registering their names to the Universal Records Forum (URF) for the largest-ever Kashmiri folk dance performed by 10,000 young women at the ‘Kashur Riwaaj’ cultural festival.
About the festival
The mega event was organised by the Dagger Division of Chinar Corps in collaboration with Baramulla District Administration and Indrani Balan Foundation (IBF).
This was the largest-ever Kashmiri Folk Dance performed by 10,000 young women at Kashur Riwaaj Cultural Fest on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day.
The festival took place at Prof. Showkat Ali Indoor Stadium to showcase the vibrant traditions of Kashmir through traditional dances, music, calligraphy and cultural activities.
Aman Sehrawat clinches 57kg wrestling bronze at Paris 2024 Olympics
Aman Sherawat won a bronze medal in the men’s 57kg freestyle event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Aman holds the distinction of being the youngest Indian to win an Olympic medal at just 21 years. It is India’s fifth bronze and sixth overall medal from the Paris Olympics 2024.
Aman’s career has been marked by a series of impressive accomplishments. His significant achievement came in 2022 when he became the first Indian wrestler to secure a gold medal at the U23 Wrestling World Championships.
This victory set the stage for further success, including gold medals at the U23 Asian Championships and the Senior Asian Championships in 2023.
In addition to his gold medals, Aman’s consistent performances in various ranking series events have demonstrated his skill and determination. His medal haul includes victories at the 2024 Ranking Series in Zagreb and the Polyak Imre & Varga Janos Memorial, as well as podium finishes in prestigious tournaments like the Yasar Dogu and Dan Kolov & Nikola Petrov events.
India’s First Grain ATM Launched in Odisha
India’s first round-the-clock grain ATM was opened at Mancheswar in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This initiative is known as Annapurti Grain ATM which is designed and developed by the World Food Programme India.
About Grain ATM:
This initiative would simplify the process for beneficiaries to access their entitled food grains; anyone with a Public Distribution System ration card valid in India, regardless of the State and Union Territory, can access their entitlement.
This user-friendly system ensures that beneficiaries can access their full ration of food grains without any complications.
It can dispense grain up to 50 kilograms in five minutes 24 hours a day, reducing waiting time by 70 percent.
It is an automated multi-commodity dispensing solution that provides fast, clean and precise access to commodities (rice, wheat, grains) to beneficiaries, post biometric authentication.
It will dispense rice or wheat 24/7, providing a reliable and consistent source of food for the state’s residents.
Chhattisgarh Establishes India’s Third Largest Tiger Reserve
Chhattisgarh has recently approved the creation of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, due to the recent plunge in its tiger population.
About Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
Guru Ghasidas National Park and the Tamor Pingla Sanctuary, located in the districts of Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Koriya, Surajpur, and Balrampur, to form the new reserve.
It is Chhattisgarh’s fourth tiger reserve, following Indravati, Udanti-Sitanadi, and Achanakmar.
It aims to bolster conservation efforts and provide a protected habitat for tigers, thereby promoting eco-tourism and creating employment opportunities for local communities.
It would promote eco-tourism and create employment opportunities for local communities.
Declining Population of Tigers
According to a National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) report released in July 2023, Chhattisgarh’s tiger population dropped from 46 in 2014 to just 17 in 2022.
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change highlighted this concerning trend in a 2023 statement, noting that states like Mizoram, Nagaland, Jharkhand, Goa, Chhattisgarh, and Arunachal Pradesh have reported worrisome declines in their small tiger populations.
About NTCA:
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
It was set up under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 which was amended in 2006, for strengthening tiger conservation.
It works on protecting habitats, stopping poaching, and involving communities.
It works with different states to improve monitoring.
IIT Indore develops e-shoes for live location tracking
IIT Indore has created advanced shoes incorporating Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology, which generates electricity from human motion and integrates GPS for real-time location tracking.
Key Points
The shoes are designed to improve safety and coordination among soldiers by providing real-time location data and power for essential devices.
They offer the ability to analyze athletes’ movements, potentially enhancing performance.
These shoes can be beneficial for monitoring movement of Alzheimer’s patient’s, tracking school children, and managing factory worker attendance.
The first set of 10 pairs of these high-tech shoes has been sent to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for testing and evaluation. This project is led by Professor Suhas Joshi at IIT Indore, with support from Professor I A Palani, demonstrating the institution’s dedication to developing cutting-edge technology.
India Names Three Underwater Structures in Indian Ocean
India has successfully proposed names for three underwater geographical structures located in the Indian Ocean. These are the Ashoka Seamount, Chandragupt Ridge, and Kalpataru Ridge.
These names were proposed by India and approved by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).
Key Facts About the Underwater Structures
Previously Named Structures:
Raman Ridge (1992): Named after the famous physicist Sir CV Raman.
Panikkar Seamount (1993): Honoring oceanographer NK Panikkar.
Sagar Kanya Seamount (1991): Named after the Indian research ship.
Ashoka Seamount: Discovered in 2012 by a Russian research ship called Akademik Nikolay Strakhov, this underwater mountain covers about 180 square kilometers.
Chandragupt Ridge: Found in 2020 by the Indian research ship MGS Sagar, this ridge is elongated and oval-shaped, stretching across 675 square kilometers.
Kalpataru Ridge: Also discovered in 2012 by the Akademik Nikolay Strakhov, this ridge covers 430 square kilometers and might serve as a habitat and food source for marine life.
Significance of Discoveries: These structures contribute to understanding marine life habitats and offer insights into the geological and biological processes of the Indian Ocean.
Assam and NE Current Affairs & GK- August 07-09, 2024
(Covers all important Current Affairs & GK topics for August 07-09, 2024)
New Bent-Toed Gecko Species Discovered in Northeast India
Scientists from India and the United Kingdom have recently described six new species of bent-toed geckos from Northeast India.
Key Research Institutions
The study was a collaborative effort involving the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), and the Natural History Museum London (NHM). Their teamwork showcases the value of international cooperation in studying biodiversity.
Highlights about the new species
Namdapha bent-toed gecko: It was documented from the Namdapha Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh and is widespread within lowland evergreen forests of the Namdapha and Kamlang Tiger Reserves.
Siang Valley Bent-Toed Gecko (Arunachal Pradesh): It was discovered in the Siang River valley, renowned for its unique biodiversity.
Ngengpui bent-toed gecko (Mizoram): It was discovered from the Ngengpui Wildlife Sanctuary of Lawngtlai district. The site is located in one of the easternmost protected areas of the country.
Manipur bent-toed gecko: It was discovered near the Lamdan Kabui village of Manipur.
Kiphire bent-toed gecko and Barail Hill bent-toed gecko (Nagaland): These two were discovered in Nagaland.
Tata Group Unveils ₹27,000 Crore Semiconductor Facility in Assam
The Tata semiconductor assembly and test facility at Jagiroad is India’s first indigenous semiconductor assembly and test facility.
The Bhoomi Pujan ceremony marks the commencement of India’s first indigenous semiconductor assembly and testing facility. The factory is expected to partially commence operations by 2025.
The facility, located in Jagiroad, Assam, will package 15 billion semiconductor chips per year. These chips will be used in various high-tech products, including electric vehicles, healthcare devices, mobile phones, and laptops.
Significance of the project
The project will create over 27,000 direct and indirect jobs in the region.
The expansion is expected to attract numerous semiconductor ecosystem companies to the region, fostering a robust electronics industry corridor.
The facility will enable direct shipping of semiconductor chips to global end-users and OEMs, reinforcing India’s position in the semiconductor value chain.
PM Modi Praises Black Rice as Superfood
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently highlighted black rice as a superfood in the country due to its medicinal value.
PM Modi highlighted the medicinal value of black rice, while addressing the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE) in New Delhi.
The theme for this year’s ICAE is “Transformation Towards Sustainable Agri-Food Systems” to promote sustainable agriculture in the face of global challenges such as climate change, natural resource degradation, rising production costs, and conflicts.
Black rice, often referred to as “forbidden rice,” has been a staple in North Eastern India for centuries. Known for its deep black color, which turns purple when cooked, it is packed with nutrients that are often lost in more common varieties of rice.
Black rice is popular in Indian states like Manipur, Assam, and Meghalaya, is gaining popularity due to its “medicinal value.
In 2020, Manipur’s black rice, Chak-Hao, bagged the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
BIMSTEC Business Summit 2024
The Ministry of External Affairs of India, in association with the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), will host the first BIMSTEC Business Summit from August 6-8, 2024, in New Delhi.
Key Points
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will inaugurate the three-day Business Summit along with key note addresses from Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal and other leaders.
The event will bring together more than 300 key stake holders from across the Bay of Bengal region to facilitate economic collaboration and explore ways ahead in focus areas such as trade facilitation, regional connectivity, energy security, inclusive growth and sustainable development.
India attaches great importance to Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) which links five countries from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India & Sri Lanka) and two from South-East Asia (Myanmar & Thailand).
The summit aims to foster greater regional collaboration through robust trade and investment relations among the BIMSTEC member countries.
Government declares Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala as Peacock Sanctuary
The Central Government has declared Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala as Peacock Sanctuary. This decision shows the government’s ongoing effort to protect wildlife and the national bird, the peacock.
Key Points
The initiative aims to protect peacocks and their habitats, ensuring they can thrive without human interference.
Declaring Adichunchanagiri and Choolannuar as Peacock Sanctuaries is an important move to protect peafowl (peacocks) and their habitats.
Sanctuaries offer a safe space where these birds can live and thrive without human disturbance.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has taken several steps to boost peacock conservation. These include setting up breeding and conservation centers aimed at increasing the peafowl population.
Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Awards 2024
The government of India announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) awardees 2024, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to recognising scientific achievements. The award ceremony for all categories of awards will be held on 23rd August, which is also National Space Day.
Categories of the Awards:
Vigyan Ratna: Up to 3 awards for lifetime achievements in science and technology.
Vigyan Shri: Up to 25 awards for distinguished contributions in various scientific fields.
Vigyan Yuva: Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award: Up to 25 awards for exceptional contributions by young scientists.
Vigyan Team Award: Up to 3 awards for teams of three or more innovators making significant contributions together.
2024 Award Winners
The recipients of this year’s awards are:
Vigyan Ratna: G. Padmanabhan, a noted biochemist and former director of the Indian Institute of Science.
Vigyan Shri: Dr. Annapurini Subramanian(Astrophysics), Dr. Anandharamakrishnan C(Agriculture Science), Dr. Avesh Kumar Tyagi(Atomic Energy), Prof. Umesh Varshney, Prof. Jayant Bhalchandra Udgaonkar(Biological Sciences), Prof. Syed Wajih Ahmad Naqvi(Earth Sciences), Prof. Bhim Singh(Engineering Sciences), Prof. Adimurthi Adi, Prof. Rahul Mukherjee(Mathematics and Computer Science), Prof. Dr. Sanjay Behari(Medicine), Prof. Lakshmanan Muthusamy, Prof. Naba Kumar Mondal(Physics), Prof. Rohit Srivastava(Technology and Innovation)
Vigyan Team Award: The team from ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission.
About Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP):
It is a new set of awards introduced by the Government of India in the field of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
It aims to recognize the notable and inspiring contributions made by scientists, technologists, and innovators individually or in teams in various fields of science, technology, and technology-led innovation.
It is one of the highest recognitions in the field of science, technology, and innovation in India.
Neeraj Chopra Wins Silver at Paris Olympics 2024
Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal in men’s javelin at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a season-best throw of 89.45 meters.
Gold medal was claimed by Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem with a throw of 92.97m, setting a new Olympic record.
Grenada’s Anderson Peters took bronze with a throw of 88.54 meters.
Neeraj Chopra was the first Indian to win a gold medal at the World U20 Championships in 2016 and became the first Indian to reach the top of the world rankings in javelin in 2021.
Indian Hockey team wins a bronze at Paris Olympics 2024
India’s men’s hockey team won the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a 2-1 victory over Spain.
This achievement marks India’s first time winning consecutive Olympic medals in hockey since the 1972 Munich Games.
The match took place at Yves du Manoir Stadium in Paris. Spain led early with a penalty stroke by Marc Miralles in the second quarter. India equalized before half-time with a drag flick goal by captain Harmanpreet Singh. The Netherlands won gold, beating Germany 2-1 in a shootout in the final.
The Netherlands won gold, beating Germany 2-1 in a shootout in the final.
The Assam Government revived the traditional buffalo fight (Moh-Juj) after nine years.
About Moh Juj: A Traditional Buffalo Fight in Assam
The riverside town of Ahatguri has hosted buffalo fight tournaments as part of Magh Bihu since 1972. But these large-scale events were stopped after the 2014 prohibition.
In May 2022 there was a major development – a Supreme Court bench upheld amendments to animal cruelty legislation by certain states.
This allowed the resumption of specific bull-taming sports and related rural events.
Following this, in October 2022, the Assam Government assured the Gauhati High Court that it would formulate standard operating procedures (SOPs) to regulate traditional practices like buffalo fights.
Subsequently, in December 2023, the Assam cabinet formally approved the revival of buffalo fights under strict rules and protocols.
This nod from the state government paved the way for restarting this cultural event in a regulated manner after years of prohibition.
Seven products from Odisha Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
Recently, seven products from Odisha, ranging from the Similipal Kai chutney made with red weaver ants to the embroidered Kapdaganda shawl, have bagged the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
About Lanjia Saura Painting
Lanjia Saurpa Painting is one of the oldest tribal art forms.
It is also known as Idital. The artworks are famous for their beauty, aesthetics, ritualistic association and iconography.
It belongs to the Lanjia Saura community, a PVTG largely residing in the Rayagada district.
These paintings are in the form of exterior murals painted on the mud walls of homes.
About Kapdaganda Shawl
It is woven and embroidered by the women of the Dongria Kondh tribe, a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) in the Niyamgiri hills in Odisha’s Rayagada and Kalahandi districts.
The shawl reflects the rich tribal heritage of the Dongria Kondhs.
The shawl is worn by both men and women and the Dongrias gift it to their family members as a token of love and affection.
Koraput Kala Jeera Rice
Famous for its aroma, taste, texture and nutritional value.
As the rice grains resemble cumin seeds, it is also called Kala Jeera.
Its consumption helps in increasing haemoglobin levels and improves metabolism in the body.
Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal
It is known for its prickly thorns on the stems and the whole plant. The green and round fruits contain more seeds as compared to other genotypes.
It is famous for its unique taste and relatively short quick cooking time.
The plants are resistant to major insects and can be grown with minimal pesticide.
Odisha Khajuri Guda (Jaggery)
It is a natural sweetener extracted from date palm trees and has its origin in the Gajapati district.
Traditionally, the jaggery is prepared in a trapezoidal form called ‘Patali Gur’ and is organic by nature.
It is dark brown and has a unique taste.
Dhenkanal Magji
It is a type of sweet made from cheese from buffalo milk, with distinct characteristics in terms of appearance, taste, flavour, shape, and size.
It also has unique nutritional values that distinguish it from other cheese-brd sweets.
SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD) Scheme
Recently, the State Bank of India (SBI) launched the SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD) to mobilize funds to support environment friendly initiatives and projects.
About SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD) Scheme
The SGRTD is a deposit scheme that aims to raise funds for environmentally-friendly initiatives and projects.
The scheme is open to NRIs, non-individuals, and resident individuals.
It offers investors the flexibility to choose from three distinct tenors: 1,111 days, 1,777 days, and 2,222 days.
Pre-mature withdrawals are allowed under the scheme.
Loan/ overdraft facility will be available against the deposit.
Senior Citizens/ Staff/ Staff Senior Citizens are eligible for an additional interest rate over the applicable rate for the public.
The benefit of additional interest shall not be available to NRI Senior Citizens/NRI Staff.
About Green Deposit
A Green deposit is an interest-bearing deposit, received by the regulated entities (RE) for a fixed period, the proceeds of which are earmarked for being allocated towards green finance.
The deposits raised under the framework are covered by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).
IUCN Assessment of the Himalayan Wolf
The Himalayan Wolf has been assessed for the first time on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and categorised as ‘Vulnerable’.
About Himalayan Wolf
The Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco), a prominent lupine predator found across the Himalayas.
The Himalayan wolf resides on the Tibetan Plateau in China, particularly in Gansu, Qinghai, Tibet, and western Sichuan provinces.
It is a subspecies of the gray wolf found in the Himalayan region, spanning areas such as Nepal, India, and the Tibetan Plateau.
Himalayan wolf has now been categorised as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List
Reason for the declining population of Himalayan Wolf
Hybridization Threats: Increasing populations of feral dogs in regions like Ladakh and Spiti pose a threat of hybridization.
Illegal Hunting: The Himalayan Wolf is hunted illegally for its fur and body parts, contributing to its declining numbers.
Conflict with Livestock: Livestock depredation conflicts are significant, exacerbated by habitat modification and depletion of wild prey.
Habitat Destruction: The IUCN Red List Assessment has highlighted an ongoing reduction in the area, extent, and quality of habitat for Himalayan wolves.
Measures should be taken to enhance the protection of Himalayan wolves
Securing and restoring healthy wild prey populations and landscapes and setting aside wildlife habitat refuges.
Enhancing livestock guarding methods, including predator-proof corral pens, sustainable herding practices, and holistic management practices.
Management of feral dog populations.
Trans-boundary efforts in conservation of the species in range countries through research and monitoring.
Pench Tiger Reserve Becomes India’s first Dark Sky Park
The Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra has been marked as India’s first Dark Sky Park and the fifth Dark Sky Park in Asia for protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution. The certification was given by the International Dark-Sky Association, a global dark-sky movement to promote astronomy.
About India’s First Dark Sky Park:
Dark Sky Place certification focuses on lighting policy, dark sky-friendly retrofits, outreach and education, and monitoring the night sky.
The reserve’s certification recognizes its commitment to protecting the night sky, reducing light pollution, and creating an ideal environment for astronomy enthusiasts and stargazers.
This designation positions PTR as a sanctuary where tourists can witness celestial spectacles, shielded from the intrusion of artificial light pollution.
About Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR)
The Reserve is named after the Pench River, which flows from north to south through the Reserve.
It is located in the southern reaches of the Satpura hills in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts in Madhya Pradesh and continues in Nagpur district in Maharashtra as a separate Sanctuary.
The reserve is famous for large herds of Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Gaur (Indian Bison), and wild boar.
It was declared a sanctuary in 1965, raised to the status of national park in 1975.
The Rural Development Ministry and State Bank of India signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to help rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
The Ministry of Rural Development and State Bank of India signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate Enterprise Financing for rural Self-Help Group (SHG) women.
Key Points
State Bank of India introduced Svyam Siddha, a financial product tailored for SHG women entrepreneurs, offering loans up to Rs 5 lakhs.
This initiative is uniquely designed to alleviate the challenges associated with extensive documentation requirements for bank loan applications and reduce the Turn Around Time (TAT).
The requirement of burdensome documents like quotations and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) has been dispensed with, allowing an easy application process where a simple loan application with KYC details can be submitted at local SBI bank branches.
DAY-NRLM will facilitate the loan application process and oversee loan repayment through its dedicated field cadre.
A training toolkit package was also launched to promote access to formal finance by SHG women entrepreneurs, marking a significant milestone in DAY-NRLM’s commitment to empowering communities and advancing financial inclusion at the grassroots level.
The toolkit covers crucial topics like fundamentals of banking, concepts on financial statements, working capital calculation etc. The key modules of this toolkit have been converted into animated videos for self-capacity building of entrepreneurs. This will facilitate access to formal finance for its SHGs women entrepreneurs.
‘Sinomicrurus Gorei’ a new species of coral snake was discovered in Mizoram
Researchers from Mizoram University’s zoology department have discovered a new species of coral snake in the state. It has been named Sinomicrurus gorei after British India doctor Gore.
This newly discovered coral snake species is locally recognised as “Rul Thi Hna” due to its striking resemblance to Thi Hna, a traditional amber necklace in the Mizo culture.
It has unique patterns and different scales, hemipenis, DNA, and skull.
In Mizoram, Sinomicrurus macclellandi is primarily found in hilly or elevated areas, while Sinomicrurus gorei is found in both low-lying and hilly areas.
Green Fuels Alliance India
Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI) is an alliance between Denmark and India to boost collaborative efforts in the sustainable energy solutions sector.
The initiative is part of the Green Strategic Partnership signed in 2020 between India and Denmark.
Key Points
This strategic alliance, led by the Danish Embassy and the Consulate General of Denmark in India, aims to boost collaborative efforts in the sustainable energy solutions sector and advance the joint global goal towards carbon neutrality.
The initiative aims to advance the green fuels sector, including green hydrogen, through innovation and partnerships.
It promotes sustainable energy growth in India by establishing an ecosystem that encourages collaboration among businesses, government entities, research institutions, and financial stakeholders.
The alliance is significant in its potential contribution to global decarbonization efforts.
Aditya-L1 successfully placed in a Halo Orbit around L1 Point
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone by placing the Aditya-L1 spacecraft in a halo orbit around the Lagrangian point (L1).
AboutAditya-L1
Aditya-L1 is the first Indian space mission to observe the Sun, was launched in September 2023, using a PSLV-C57 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
Aditya-L1 is in a periodic halo orbit around L1, approximately 1.5 million km from Earth.
The satellite carries seven payloads to observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layer of the Sun (corona) using electromagnetic and particle detectors.
With a mission life of five years, Aditya-L1 aims to study the sun’s photosphere, chromosphere, and corona, along with in-situ studies of particles and fields at L1.
Lagrange Point
Lagrange Points are positions in space where a small object can maintain its position relative to two larger bodies due to the gravitational balance.
Spacecraft leverage these points to minimize fuel consumption and allow spacecraft to maintain their position efficiently.
Ministry of Education launches PRERANA program
The Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India has launched ‘Prerana: An Experiential Learning program’, aiming to offer a meaningful, unique, and inspiring experience to all participants, thereby empowering them with leadership qualities.
About PRERANA program
Prerana 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.
A batch of 20 selected students (10 boys and 10 girls) will attend the program, every week from various parts of the country.
It will run from a Vernacular School, established in 1888, in one of the oldest living cities of India, Vadnagar, district Mehsana, Gujarat.
The curriculum of Prerana School prepared by IIT Gandhi Nagar is rooted in nine value based themes: Swabhiman and Vinay, Shaurya and Sahas, Parishram and Samarpan, Karuna and Sewa, Vividhta and Ekta, Satyanishtha and Shuchita, Navachar and Jigyasa, Shraddha aur Vishwas, and Swatantrata and Kartavya.
The program based on the above themes will inspire the youth and foster respect for Bharat’s unity in diversity, embodying the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and will contribute by making the youth of today, a flame holder for Viksit Bharat.
The day-wise program schedule will feature yoga, mindfulness, and meditation sessions, followed by experiential learning, thematic sessions, and hands-on interesting learning activities.
Rejupave Technology
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has utilised road construction technology i.e. Rejupave technology to construct parts of the world’s highest Sela Road Tunnel and the LGG-Damteng-Yangste (LDY) road near the China border in Arunachal Pradesh.
About the Rejupave Technology
It is developed by CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI).
Rejupave asphalt modifier is a bio-oil-based product that lowers the heating requirement of bituminous mixes besides preserving the bituminous mix’s temperature during transit.
It is beneficial in constructing high-altitude bituminous roads at low and sub-zero temperature conditions.
It brings down the temperature of bituminous mixes by 30 to 40 degrees Celsius with negligible heat loss in the bituminous mix during transit.
Raghuram Iyer’s extensive experience in sports management and administration, particularly his previous roles as CEO of Indian Premier League teams Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiants, has been recognized as making him an ideal candidate for this position.
India will host the 46th Session of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee
This will be the first instance for India to chair the UNESCO World Heritage Committee and host its 46th session in New Delhi from July 21 to 31, 2024.
About the World Heritage Committee:
It is a committee of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The Committee is responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention, defines the use of the World Heritage Fund, and allocates financial assistance upon requests from States Parties.
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. Structure:
The World Heritage Committee is composed of representatives from 21 member states, elected by the General Assembly of States Parties to the Convention.
According to the World Heritage Convention, a Committee member’s term of office is for six years.
World’s First Functional Semiconductor Made From Graphene
Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology have successfully developed the world’s first functional semiconductor composed of graphene.
About Graphene
Graphene is a one-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. It is the building-block of Graphite.
It is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity.
It is almost perfectly transparent, as it absorbs only 2% of light.
It is impermeable to gases, even those as light as hydrogen and helium.
It can be used to enhance the strength of other materials.
It is a great material for making heat-spreading solutions, such as heat sinks or heat dissipation films.
This could be useful in both microelectronics and in larger applications, for example, thermal foils for mobile devices.
It also has an extremely high surface-area-to-volume ratio.
This makes graphene a very promising material for use in batteries and supercapacitors.
Graphene may enable batteries and supercapacitors (and even fuel cells) that can store more energy and charge faster, too.
India Signs Bilateral Hajj Agreement 2024
The Indian government has recently signed a Bilateral Haj Agreement 2024 with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), marking a significant development in the facilitation of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
A total quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India has been finalised for Haj 2024 with 1,40,020 seats being reserved for pilgrims to proceed through Hajj Committee of India and 35,005 pilgrims would be permitted to proceed through Haj Group Operators.
Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to the sacred city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims.
It takes place during Dhu’al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, and is performed over five to six days.
The pilgrims wear simple white garments (Ihram) to symbolize equality and purity.
The first meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council held in Kolkata
The first meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) concluded on January 8, 2024 in Kolkata to strengthen the inland water transport system in the country. It was organized by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the nodal agency for inland waterways under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.
Key Points
The agenda of the first IWDC meeting had sessions centered around fairway development, enhancing cargo and passenger transport in IWT, potential of river cruise tourism to boost economic activity, sustainability practices in terms of non-fossil fuel-based vessel operations among others.
One of the key highlights of the meeting was the launch of Harit Nauka- Guidelines for Green Transition of Inland Vessels and River Cruise Tourism Roadmap, 2047.
The agenda also includes promoting eco-friendly vessels for passenger transportation, exploring economic advantages in river cruise tourism, and advocating for sustainable practices in inland waterways development.
The River Cruise Tourism Roadmap 2047 focuses on four vital pillars, including Infrastructure, Integration, Accessibility, and Policy for promoting river cruise tourism.
As a part of the roadmap, over 30 possible routes and tourist circuits along inland waterways have been identified for further development.
MoPSW stressed upon the importance of State-level institutional structure and rules in ensuring that the planning and development of the state’s inland waterway ecosystem accounts for its unique characteristics and requirements.
Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, also known as Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Day is an annual event celebrated every year on 9th January to honor the Indian diaspora and the contribution of the overseas Indian community to the country’s development.
About Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas or NRI Day is celebrated to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on 9 January 1915.
It was first celebrated in 2003. It was an annual event earlier, but in 2015, the government revised its format to celebrate PBD once every two years.
It has become a platform to connect the Indian diaspora with their roots and encourage their continued engagement with India’s progress.
It is held in different cities, to showcase the diversity and progress of different regions of India.
Till date, 17 conventions have been held. The last Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was celebrated in the Indore of Madhya Pradesh in 2023 with the theme “Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India’s Progress in Amrit Kaal.”
North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi) sanctions over ₹750 crores for 5,300 Northeast Projects
North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi) has sanctioned Rs 766.47 crore and disbursed Rs 547.11 crore for 5338 projects in the NorthEast region, in diverse sectors – education & training food processing, handlooms & handicrafts, healthcare, hotels & tourism, microfinance etc.
Important Initiatives of NEDFI
NEDFi in collaboration with the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) in setting up ₹100 crore North East Venture Fund to promote regional startups.
It also partners with banks, microcredit organisations and NGOs for last-mile delivery to remote areas.
North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi) plays an important role in facilitating setting up of new industrial and service sector projects in the NE Region.
₹547 crore disbursed at concessional interest rates to micro and small businesses
₹41 crore credit extended via microfinance institutions ₹53 crore direct micro lending to benefit over 9 lakh individuals.
₹98 crore venture capital commitments to 67 startups.
About North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi)
It is a public limited company registered under the Companies Act 1956 on August 9, 1995.
It provides financial assistance to MSMEs in the NE region for setting up industrial, infrastructure and agriculture-related projects.
It also provides micro financing through MFIs/NGOS. It also provides consultancy and advisory services to state governments, private sectors and other agencies.
Three New Frogs Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
The Scientists have reported three new frog species belonging to new genera from Arunachal Pradesh’s Namdapha-Kamlang protected area network along the Myanmar border.
About the discovery
Gracixalus patkaiensis – A translucent green tree frog with jelly-like appearance and insect-like call
Alcalus fontinalis – A tiny brown frog inhabiting fast-flowing hill streams with unique trickling vocalization
Nidirana noadihing – A marsh-dwelling “music frog” named after the Noa-Dihing river
About Namdapha Tiger Reserve:
It is located in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, near the international border with Myanmar.
It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Assam Forest Regulation 1891 on 2nd Oct.’1972.
In the 1983 year it was declared as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger Scheme of the Govt. of India on 15th March 1983.
India, Nepal hold Seventh Joint Commission Meeting
The Seventh Meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission was held in Kathmandu. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Nepal counterpart NP Saud recently attended the 7th meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission.
Key Points
Nepal and India signed a long-term agreement for the export of 10,000 MW of power to India for the next 10 years.
Inauguration of Cross-Border Inauguration of 3 cross-border transmission lines which was completed with the help of India (132 kV Raxaul-Parwanipur, 132 kV Kushaha-Kataiya and New Nautanwa-Mainahiya lines).
An agreement for the launch of Nepali satellites was formalized between the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology and NewSpace India Limited under the Indian Space Research Organisation.
Inaugurated 3 132-kV cross-border transmission strains, which include the second circuits of the Raxaul-Parwanipur line and the Kataiya-Kusaha line, and the New Nautanwa-Mahiya line.
About India-Nepal Joint Commission:
It was established in 1987 as a platform for the Foreign Ministers of both countries to review all aspects of the bilateral partnership.
Raghuram Iyer appointed as CEO of Indian Olympic Association
Raghuram Iyer has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
His appointment follows a meticulous selection process conducted by the nomination committee of the IOA.
The appointment comes after a significant delay and repeated reminders from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Raghuram Iyer’s extensive experience in sports management and administration, particularly his previous roles as CEO of Indian Premier League teams Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiants, has been recognized as making him an ideal candidate for this position.
XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) mission
The Indian Space Research Organisation successfully launched the PSLV-C58 XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) mission.
About XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite)
XPoSat is designed to study X-ray polarization in the medium X-ray band, offering insights into celestial sources’ radiation mechanisms and geometry.
This study is crucial for understanding the physics behind these celestial bodies.
The satellite carries two main payloads, POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays) and XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing).
It is India’s first dedicated polarimetry mission to study various dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources.
It is designated for observation from low earth orbit.
After this launch, India became the second nation after the US to send an observatory to study astronomical sources, such as black holes, and neutron stars, among others.
Wetland City Accreditation
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has submitted three nominations from India for Wetland City Accreditation (WCA).
The nominated cities include Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), and Udaipur (Rajasthan).
These are the first three Indian cities for which nominations have been submitted for WCA based on the proposals received from respective State Wetlands Authorities in collaboration with the Municipal Corporations.
About Wetland City Accreditation:
The Ramsar Convention during COP12 held in the year 2015 approved a voluntary Wetland City Accreditation system.
The scheme aims to promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands, as well as sustainable socio-economic benefits for local populations.
It recognizes cities which have taken exceptional steps to safeguard their urban wetlands and also recognizes the importance of wetlands in urban and peri-urban environments and to take appropriate measures to conserve and protect these wetlands.
This voluntary scheme provides an opportunity for cities that value their natural or human-made wetlands to gain international recognition and positive publicity for their efforts.
About the cities nominated for WCA
Indore: Founded by Holkars. Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar Site in the city has been recognised as an important site for water bird congregation and is being developed as a Bird Sanctuary.
A strong network of wetland mitras is engaged in bird conservation and sensitising the local community to protect Sarus Crane.
Bhopal: Bhoj Wetland, Ramsar Site is the city’s lifeline, equipped with the world-class wetlands interpretation centre, Jal Tarang. Additionally, the Bhopal Municipal Corporation has a dedicated Lake Conservation Cell.
Udaipur: The city is surrounded by five major wetlands, namely, Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai. These wetlands are an integral part of the city’s culture and identity, help maintain the city’s microclimate, and provide a buffer from extreme events.
Union Cabinet approves overarching scheme “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)”
The Union Cabinet recently approved the comprehensive scheme “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)” by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. This overarching initiative, with an allocation of Rs 4,797 crore for the period 2021-26.
About PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI) Scheme
Objectives:
The major Objectives of the overarching Prithvi Scheme are:
Augmentation and sustainance of long-term observations of the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere and solid earth to record the vital signs of the Earth System and change
Development of modelling systems for understanding and predicting weather, ocean and climate hazards and understanding the science of climate change
Exploration polar and high seas regions of the Earth towards discovery of new phenomena and resources;
Development of technology for exploration and sustainable harnessing of oceanic resources for societal applications ·
Translation of knowledge and insights from Earth systems science into services for societal, environmental and economic benefit.
The Prithvi scheme integrates five existing sub-schemes:
Atmosphere and Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems and Services (ACROSS)
Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)
Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER)
Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE)
Research, Education, Training, and Outreach (REACHOUT).
Additionally, the scheme focuses on providing advanced warning services for natural disasters like cyclones, floods, heatwaves, and earthquakes, facilitating prompt and effective disaster management.
The scheme ensures precise weather forecasts for both land and oceans, enhancing safety and minimizing property damages in adverse weather conditions.
‘Clean and Green Village’ Programme for Solar Power Expansion
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) is prioritizing the ‘Clean and Green Village’ theme as part of its Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).
About ‘Clean and Green Village’ Programme
Clean and Green Village’ is the fifth theme under the GPDP.
The programme aims to install solar power capacities on a commercial basis.
It aims to develop sustainable business models for solar initiatives at the grassroots level.
The programme focuses on access to safe water, sanitation, and low pollution environments for healthier lives.
It emphasizes sustainable natural resource management for better livelihoods, food security, and environmental protection.
It aims to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG13 (climate action).
Areas of Action: Includes 10 specific areas like Open Defecation Free (ODF) Village, Clean and Green School, promotion of Organic Farming, and more.
Initiatives and Schemes for Clean and Green Village:
Organic and natural farming initiatives like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana.
Reducing chemical fertilizers through schemes like PM-PRANAM. Waste to wealth initiatives like GOBARdhan and SATAT.
Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc.) in Bengaluru have observed a significant shift in the habitat of numerous bird species in the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary due to the escalating temperatures in the region.
About Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
It is a protected area of India in the Himalayan foothills of West Kameng District, Arunachal Pradesh.
It conjoins Sessa Orchid Sanctuary to the northeast and Pakhui Tiger Reserve across the Kameng river to the east.
It is situated in the biodiversity hotspot of Eastern Himalayas and home to over 500 bird species.
It is also a part of the Kameng Elephant Reserve.
It derives its name from the Red Eagle Division of the Indian army The temperate cloud forest is intermixed with dense bamboo patches and broadleaved evergreen forest across a wide altitudinal range, with conifers and rhododendrons at the higher elevations.
Current Affairs 2022 Yearbook – Important Current Affairs & GK (Important for APSC & other exams)
Current Affairs 2022 Yearbook comprehensively covers all the important events/topics of Current affairs of Assam, North-East, India and the World, important for competitive exams point of view.
Current Affairs 2023 Yearbook – Important Current Affairs & GK (Important for APSC & other exams)
Current Affairs 2023 Yearbook comprehensively covers all the important events/topics of Current affairs of Assam, North-East, India and the World, important for competitive exams point of view.
Assam govt announces yearly stipend for female PG students
The Govt of Assam will introduce a scheme under which all female students pursuing post-graduate courses in the state will be provided a yearly stipend of Rs 10,000 each which would be helpful in covering their commutation and other related expenses.
This was announced by Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The Chief Minister appealed to the female students pursuing PG courses to apply for getting the stipend in the portal to be launched by the Department of Education for the purpose in a few weeks from now.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also distributed scooters to meritorious candidates who cleared the last higher secondary examination conducted by the Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC) with a percentage above a certain threshold at a ceremony held in Guwahati.
To be eligible for the award, the male candidates had to score a minimum of 75 per cent in higher secondary examination, while for female candidates the cut-off was fixed at 60 per cent.
23rdHornbill Festival 2022 in Nagaland
The 23rd edition of the Hornbill International Festival 2022 begins at the Heritage Village Kisama in Nagaland. The festival commenced on December 1 and will continue till December 10.
The aim of the festival is to revive and protect the rich culture of Nagaland and display its extravaganza and traditions.
About Hornbill Festival
The festival is named after the Indian hornbill, the large and colourful forest bird which is displayed in the folklore of most of the state’s ethnic groups.
To encourage inter-ethnic interaction and to promote cultural heritage of Nagaland, the Govt of Nagaland organizes the Hornbill Festival every year.
The 10-day Hornbill Festival represents all ethnic groups of Nagaland for which it is also called the Festival of Festivals.
The festival host guests from across states and nations, representing the rich culture of various tribes of Nagaland,
The festival provides a colourful mixture of dances, performances, crafts, parades, games, sports, food fairs and religious ceremonies.
Traditional arts which include paintings, wood carvings, and sculptures are also on display.
The Hornbill Festival has contributed significantly to enhancing the state’s tourism brand.
India-US joint military exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’
The 18th edition of India-US joint military exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’is scheduled to be conducted in Uttarakhand.
Exercise Yudh Abhyas is conducted annually between India and USA with the aim of exchanging best practices, Tactics, Techniques and Procedures between the Armies of the two nations.
Key Points
US Army soldiers of 2nd Brigade of the 11th Airborne Division and Indian Army soldiers from the ASSAM Regiment will be participating in the exercise.
The training schedule focuses on employment of an integrated battle group under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate.
The schedule will include all operations related to peace keeping & peace enforcement.
The joint exercise will also focus on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
The troops from both nations will work together to achieve common objectives and will practice launching of swift & coordinated relief efforts in the wake of any natural calamity.
In order to derive full benefit from the professional skills & experiences of both the armies, a Command Post Exercise and Expert Academic Discussions (EAD) on carefully selected topics will be carried out.
The scope of the Field Training Exercise includes validation of integrated battle groups, force multipliers, establishment and functioning of surveillance grids, validation of operational logistics, mountain warfare skills, casualty evacuation and combat medical aid in adverse terrain and climatic conditions.
The exercise will involve exchanges and practices on a wide spectrum of combat skills including combat engineering, employment of UAS/Counter UAS techniques and information operations.
The exercise will facilitate both Armies to share their wide experiences, skills and enhance their techniques through information exchange.
The previous edition of the exercise was conducted at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson, Alaska (USA) in October 2021.
India assumes United Nations Security Council Presidency for December 2022
India assumed the monthly presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the second time in its two-year tenure as an elected member of the Council in 2021-22. India had earlier assumed the Presidency in August 2021.
India has been a non-permanent member of the United Nations security council for 8 terms, with the most recent being the 2021-22 term.
Key Points
India will hold a “high-level open debate” on “Maintenance of International Peace and Security: New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism (NORMS)” at the Security Council.
New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism (NORMS) envisages reforms in the current multilateral architecture, with the UN at its centre, to make it more representative and fit for purpose.
The other signature event planned is the high-level briefing on the theme “Threats to International Peace and Security Caused by Terrorist Acts: Global Approach to Counter Terrorism — Challenges and Way Forward”.
This briefing intends to underscore the necessity of collective and coordinated efforts to combat the menace of terrorism.
About United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) was established by the UN Charter in 1945.
It is one of the UN’s six main organs and is aimed at maintaining international peace and security.
The Headquarters of the UNSC is located in New York City.
The Secretary-General is appointed by the General Assembly, on the recommendation of the Security Council.
It is composed of 15 members: 5 permanent and 10 non-permanent.
Five permanent members: China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The 10 non-permanent seats are distributed on a regional basis as follows:
Five for African and Asian States.
One for the Eastern European States.
Two for the Latin American and Caribbean States;
Two for Western European and other States
India MMR dips to 97 per lakh live births in 2018-20, Assam worst at 195
According to the report released by the office of the Registrar General of India, The maternal Mortality Ratio in India has dropped from 130 per lakh live births in 2014-16 to 97 per lakh live births in 2018-20.
About Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)
Maternal mortality in a region is a measure of the reproductive health of women in the area.
According to the World Health Organization, “Maternal death is the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management but not from accidental or incidental causes”.
The maternal mortality ratio (MMR) is the number of maternal deaths during a specific time period per 100,000 live births during the same period.
Key Points
As per the statistics derived from Sample Registration System (SRS), the country has witnessed a progressive reduction in MMR from 130 in 2014-2016, 122 in 2015-17, 113 in 2016-18, 103 in 2017-19 and to 97 in 2018-20.
Upon achieving this, India has accomplished the National Health Policy (NHP) target for MMR of less than 100/lakh live births.
Target 3.1 of the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations aims at reducing the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 1,00,000 live births during the same period.
According to the data, Assam has the highest MMR of 195, followed by Madhya Pradesh with an MMR of 173 and Uttar Pradesh with MMR of 167 per 1 lakh live births.
Kerala has the lowest MMR, followed by Maharashtra at 33 and Telangana at 43.
Silchar-Sylhet Festival organised at Silchar
The first ever Silchar-Sylhet Festival, organized to celebrate the cultural ties between the Barak Valley region of Assam and the Sylhet segment of Bangladesh.
Key Points
Assam’s Silchar town is hosting the two-day Silchar-Sylhet Festival, to celebrate the linguistic and cultural ties between the Barak Valley region of Assam and the Sylhet segment of Bangladesh.
Silchar-Sylhet Festival is organised by the India Foundation.
The Festival coincides with the 75th year of India’s independence and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Bangladesh from Pakistan.
The festival underlines the commonalities between India and Bangladesh, specifically the Sylheti variant of the Bengali language and the Sylheti culture.
The festival will showcase tribal culture, cuisine, arts, crafts and local produce, entertainment and bring together eminent people from both sides to discuss and deliberate on issues of mutual growth and opportunity.
Indo-French Partnership on Kaziranga Project
India and France are collaborating under the Kaziranga Project in the Kaziranga National Park in Assam.
The Kaziranga project is a part of a larger Assam Project on Forest and Biodiversity Conservation (APFBC) for which the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) has committed funding of €80.2 million for a 10-year period, between 2014-2024.
The project conceptualised the reforestation of 33,500 hectares of land and the training of 10,000 community members in alternate livelihoods by 2024.
The Assam Govt, with the support of AFD, launched the APFBC in 2012, to restore forest ecosystems, protect wildlife and enhance the livelihood of the forest-dependent communities.
About Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park is a national park in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of the state of Assam.
It is the single largest undisturbed and representative area in the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain.
It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950, and notified as Kaziranga National Park in 1974.
It is the home of the world’s most one-horned rhinos.
In 1985, Kaziranga was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its unique natural environment.
It is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for conservation of avifaunal species.
India ranked 48thin Global Aviation Safety ranking
India ranked 48th position in the global aviation safety ranking by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
India was in the 102nd position four years ago in the ranking.The position is the highest-ever spot attained by the country.
Key Points
In the ranking, Singapore is at the top, followed by the UAE and South Korea at the second and third positions.
As per Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the audit was conducted in the areas of legislation, organisation, personal licensing, operations, airworthiness and aerodromes.
India’s score in terms of effective implementation of key safety elements has improved to 85.49%.
India’s score for civil aviation organizations increased from 63.64% to 72.73 %, aircraft operations from 80.34% to 97.44%, personnel licensing and training from 25.58% to 84.71%, and aerodrome and ground aid from 72.36% to 92.68%.
‘Millets-Smart Nutritive Food’ Conclave
‘Millets-Smart Nutritive Food’ Conclave is being organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry through its apex agricultural export promotion body, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
The Conclave is to be a pre-launch event of the ‘International Year of Millets – 2023’ (IYoM-2023). It is organised with the objective of promoting the export of millets.
Key Points
At the Millets Smart Nutritive Conclave, stakeholders of the supply chain such as Farmer Producer Organisations, Start-ups, exporters, producers of millet-based value-added products are key participants.
At the Conclave, exhibition and B2B meetings will also be organized to showcase Indian millets and millet-based products.
At the first-of-its-kind Millets Conclave, the Govt will release e-catalogue on 30 potential importing countries and 21 millet producing states of India.
India is one of the leading producers of millets in the world with an estimated share of around 41 percent in the global production.
India recorded 27 percent growth in millet production in 2021-22 as compared to millet production in the previous year was 15.92 MMT.
India’s top five millet producing states are Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Share of export of millets is nearly 1% of the total millet production.
Exports of millets from India include mainly whole grain and the export of value-added products of millets from India is negligible.
Assam’s Nayanmoni Saikia receives Arjuna Award
Assam’s Nayanmoni Saikia was conferred with the Arjuna Award at Rashtrapati Bhawan by President Draupadi Murmu.
Nayanmoni Saikia was nominated for the award for her achievements in Lawn Bowl.
Apart from Nayanmoni Saikia, Shushila Devi from Manipur was also presented with the prestigious award for her remarkable contributions and achievements in the field of boxing.
Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sharma congratulated Commonwealth Games gold medalist Nayanmoni Saikia for receiving Arjuna Award, 2022 from Hon’ble President Droupadi Murmu.
Mirabai Chanu won silver medal in World Championship 2022
Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has won a silver medal at the weightlifting World Championships in Bogota, Colombia.
Mirabai won a silver medal at the World Championships with a total lift of 200kg. China’s Jiang Huihua, who won the gold with a total effort of 206kg (93kg+113kg) while Tokyo Olympics champion Hou Zhihua who won the bronze with a total effort of198kg (89kg+109kg).
Mirabai had previously won gold in the 2017 world weightlifting championship. This was Mirabai’s second medal at the World Championships.
Tripura gets its first Film and Television Institute
Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha inaugurated Tripura’s first film and television institute at Nazrul Kalakshetra in Agartala.
The institute has been set up in collaboration with Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI).
This film Institute will promote Tripura’s rich cultural heritage in the global sphere. It will help the youths of the state to nurture their cultural talents and will also help to improve the socio-economic condition of the youths.
The state Govt has allocated Rs 5.76 crore for the institute. Four short-term courses, including screen acting, film appreciation, production, and management along with news reporting, anchoring and newsroom automation would be started initially.
India ranked 87thin Passport Index 2022
India has been ranked 87 in the world’s strongest passport list for 2022, published by Arton Capital.
Passport Index 2022 published by Arton Capital ranked the world’s strongest and weakest passports.
Key Points
The Passport Index is based on the 139 members of the United Nations and 6 different aspects have been considered to make this list.
UAE ranked first in the rating of passports for 2022 followed by Germany, Sweden, Finland, Luxembourg, Spain and France.
Travellers with UAE passports can travel visa-free or “visa on arrival” to 180 countries.
Countries with the weakest passports are Afghanistan (38) Syria (39), Iraq (40), Pakistan (44).
The data for this list has been given by the Govts of different countries.
Oxford dictionary announces ‘goblin mode’ as word of the year 2022
The Oxford English Dictionary recently announces ‘goblin mode’ as word of the year 2022 that was selected by public votes – Goblin mode.
It’s the first time Oxford Languages opened up its annual word of the year listing to a public vote.
Goblin mode is a slang term that describes a type of behavior that is unapologetically self-indulgent, lazy, slovenly, or greedy, generally rejecting social norms and expectations.
The word goblin mode is used to acknowledge that individuals are not always idealized, curated selves that they force themselves to present in social media platforms.
The term speaks to the current times when people are embracing their inner goblin and choosing to reject the accepted social customs.
American dictionary publisher Merriam-Webster has chosen “gaslighting” as its word of the year for 2022.
Meghalaya health dept awarded for Best Practice in Tuberculosis ACSM
Meghalaya was awarded for Best Practice in Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilization in Tuberculosis control at the National Workshop on ACSM to end TB in India,
The award was given to recognize the efforts by the Meghalaya Govt for initiating ‘jan andolan’ (people’s movement) against Tuberculosis
The award was presented to representatives of the health department at a national workshop, aimed at ending TB infections, in New Delhi.
Key Points
TB affects 2.6 million people in India every year.
The TB Mukt Bharat campaign, or ‘Jan Andolan’ aims to enhance awareness, eradicate stigma and generate demand for services throughout the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had set a national target to eliminate the disease, which affects more than 26 lakh Indians each year, by 2025, five years ahead of the WHO’s Sustainable Development Goals.
A National Strategic Plan for TB Elimination (2017-25) has also been launched which ensures greater community engagement.
Assam’s Gamusa gets Geographical Indication (GI) tag by Govt of India
‘Gamocha’ of Assam, has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the central Govt. Gamusa is considered as one of the prominent cultural identifiers of the Assamese community.
About Assamese Gamocha
The ‘gamocha’, a handwoven rectangular cotton piece of cloth with red borders and different designs and motifs. It is an integral part of all socio-religious ceremonies in the state and is considered as an Assamese identity and pride.
It is traditionally offered to elders and guests as a mark of respect and honour by Assamese people. A ‘gamocha’ meant for exchange during ‘Bihu’ festival is known as ‘Bihuwan’.
About Geographical Indication (GI) tag
A geographical indication (GI) is a tag or sign used on products which correspond to a specific geographical location or origin.
A GI is tagged to primarily agricultural, natural or manufactured products, handicrafts and industrial goods originating from a definite geographical territory.
The GI tag has been registered in favour of the Directorate of Handloom & Textiles of the Assam Govt under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
Ladakh’s Hanle becomes India’s first dark sky reserve
Ladakh is all set to have India’s first Dark Night Sky Reserve at Hanle village in Changthang region.The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) will come up within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, situated 4,500 metres above sea level, which makes it a perfect host for telescopes.
Ladakh is also ideal for long-term observatories and dark-sky sites because of its large arid area, high elevation, and sparse population. The Milky Way Galaxy is visible through the night in the Hanle region due to its cloudless skies and lower atmospheric disturbance.
Hanley is home for the second-highest optical telescope in the world, established in 2001 by Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
About Dark sky Reserve
The International Dark Sky Association (IDSA) defines an international dark sky reserve (IDSR) as “a public or private land of substantial size possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment, and that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment”.
A dark sky reserve requires a “core” area that has a clear sky without any light pollution, which can enable telescopes to see the sky in its natural darkness. To support the core, it should be surrounded by a “peripheral” or “buffer” area that supports dark sky values in the core while receiving the same benefits.
Assam govt launches ‘Orunodoi 2.0’, scheme
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the ‘Orunodoi 2.0’, the flagship scheme of the state Govt aimed at providing financial security to financially disadvantaged families.
Key Points
Around 10.50 lakhs new beneficiaries will be newly added under the ambit of Orunodoi 2.0 making the scheme as the Largest DBT scheme in the history of Assam.
With total financial outlay for Orunodoi at Rs.4,142 crore per annum, this scheme is billed as one of the largest direct beneficiary transfer (DBT) schemes in the country.
The scheme will also cover disabled and transgender. The people living in old age homes will also be benefitted from the scheme with DC quota.
Orunodoi, the poverty alleviation scheme, launched to entail a monthly grant of Rs. 1,250 to each beneficiary.
It is one of the flagship schemes of the Govt of Assam currently in operation.
The Orunodoi benefit is usually transferred to the bank account of each beneficiary by the 10th of every month.
Indo-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise “Kazind – 2022” is scheduled to be conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya
The 6th Edition of Indo – Kazakhstan joint training exercise “KAZIND-22” is scheduled to be conducted at Umroi (Meghalaya) from 15 to 28 December 2022.
This joint exercise will enable the two armies to train, plan and execute a series of combined tactical drills for neutralising of likely threats that may be encountered in UN peace keeping operations.
Aim of the exercise is to build positive military relations, imbibe each other’s best practices and promote the ability to operate together while undertaking counter terrorist operations in semi urban / jungle scenario, under a UN peace enforcement mandate.
About “Kazind – 2022”
Joint annual training exercise with the Kazakhstan Army was instituted in 2016 as Exercise Prabal Dostyk, which was later upgraded to a company level exercise and renamed as Ex Kazind in 2018.
The scope of this exercise involves a Command Post Exercise (CPX) at the Battalion level and Company level Field Training Exercise (FTX) on sub-conventional operations.
It will enhance the level of defence cooperation between Indian Army and Kazakhstan Army which will further foster the bilateral relations between the two nations.
During the exercise, participants will engage in a variety of missions ranging from joint planning, joint tactical drills, basics of special arms skills, HADR and raiding a hostile target.
Kazakhstan Army soldiers composed of troops from the Regional Command, South and Indian Army soldiers from the 11 Gorkha Rifles will be participating in the exercise.
8th edition of Falcon festival begins at Umrangso
The 8th edition of the popular Falcon Festival got underway with great fanfare at the Golf Course near Umrangso in Dima Hasao.
The Falcon Festival is organized on two main ideas. The first aims to increase awareness of the Amur Falcon, and the second is to promote the state’s Dimasa customs and culture.
The Amur Falcon is a tiny yet effective bird predator in the Falcon family. It is a migratory bird that nests in Siberia and Northern China and then travels large distances to Africa.
However, throughout time, a large number of these birds selected Assam and Nagaland as their roosting grounds.
One of the key issues of conservation in this region is the arrival of this bird and the necessity to maintain it. At the occasion, seminars on the conservation of this species will be held.
Indo-Nepal joint training Exercise Surya Kiran XVI
The 16th Edition of Indo-Nepal joint training Exercise “SURYA KIRAN-XVI” between India and Nepal is being held from December 16 to 29 this year in Nepal Army Battle School in Nepal’s Saljhandi.
About Exercise Surya Kiran
Exercise Surya Kiran is a joint military exercise between the armies of India and Nepal.
Its objectives include improving interoperability and sharing experiences and best practices on counter-insurgency operations.
It aims to establish military relations in inaccessible mountainous areas by the soldiers of both countries, Provide humanitarian assistance under disaster management, Get training in anti-terrorist operations.
The inaugural edition of this bilateral exercise was held in Mizoram in 2011. Since then, it has been held each year between the two armies.
The 15th edition was held in Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand.
It is also improving the mutual cooperation between both the armies and further strengthening diplomatic relations of the two countries.
The joint military training is set to conclude on December 29, 2022, after a grueling 48-hour validation exercise to confirm the performance of both armies in the counter-insurgency environment.
The Gorkha battalion from the elite Gorkha regiment is representing the Indian Army in this exercise. The Nepal Army is represented by the Shree Bhawani Baksh Battalion.
During this exercise, the two militaries will share experiences that were gained during the various counter-insurgency operations over the years in their respective countries.
The scope of the Surya Kiran series has been expanded to include Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), High Altitude Warfare, and Jungle Warfare operations.
It will also focus on the evolution of joint drills for planning and conducting tactical operations at the unit level in the counter-terrorism operations and disaster response mechanisms and armed forces’ role in managing disasters.
Assam Grant Industry Status to its Tourism Sector
The state Govt of Assam has approved the proposal for grant of industry status to the tourism sector in the state.
Significance of this transition
To boost investments and generate employment.
The industry status, fresh investments in tourism infrastructure, permanent in nature, will contribute towards rapid employment generation, public-private partnership and development.
With the grant, restaurants, cafeterias, health clubs, spas and wellness centers, among others, are eligible for incentives under the industrial policy.
The newly-implemented policy aims for sustainable and environmentally friendly investment besides capital formation and the creation of gainful employment. The ministry also said the infrastructure can be developed through Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode, which will contribute to the overall development of the region.
Assam has now become an all-season tourist destination for its unique wildlife, bio-diversity and experience of an unexploited wonderland. Tourism is to be one of the main sources of income generation for the people over the years.
Tamil Nadu Govt launched Climate Change Mission
The state Govt of Tamil Nadu has launched the Climate Change Mission to protect the natural resources in the state besides restore them on a long-term basis.
The state is first to launch its own Climate Change Mission to make Tamil Nadu a climate smart state.
Key Points
The mission aims to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions in the state, increase the use of public transport, develop strategies to cut emissions by using green and renewable energy, increase forest cover, and manage waste effectively.
To develop ways to mitigate the impact of climate change, access financial resources for adaptation, initiate climate education in educational institutions, focus on climate action for women and children.
Adopt a ‘One Health’ approach that includes human, animal, and ecological health to understand health disruptions caused by climate change.
The state has also aimed to achieve carbon neutrality much ahead of 2070 target set by PM Modi.
Japanese space startup, ispace has launched the world’s first commercial moon lander, HAKUTO-R
Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft to the moon recently. This mission was took off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, after two postponements caused by inspections of its SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
About HAKUTO
HAKUTO refers to the white rabbit that lives on the moon in Japanese folklore. The national space agencies of the United States, Russia and China have already achieved the soft landings on moon.
The ispace craft intends to deploy a tiny NASA satellite into the orbit of the moon to look for water deposits prior to its touch in the Atlas Crater. Additionally, the M1 lander will station two robotic rovers, a baseball-sized device from the JAXA space agency, and the four-wheeled Rashid explorer. The Rashid explorer is crafted by the United Arab Emirates.
Assam Cabinet approved a bill to create Safai Karamchari Commission
The Assam Cabinet approved a bill to create a Safai Karamchari Commission and decisions related to providing financial benefits to pregnant women, monitoring drug prices, protecting Safai Karmacharis’ rights and filling up vacancies in the Forest Department were also taken in the meeting.
Key Decisions made during the Cabinet Meeting
The cabinet has also renamed the Dergaon Police Academy as Lachit Barphukan Police Academy.
The Assam cabinet has resolved to transfer Rs 700 to all pregnant women to their bank accounts and around 5 lakh pregnant women of the state will get the benefit.
Approved Rs 361 crore for BTC as the first installment under the annual budget. The state cabinet has approved to set up Safai Karmachari Aayog for Safai workers for their development
The state cabinet has approved Rs 525 crore for the construction of 162 new police stations in the state under the Moitry scheme.
Nikhat Zareen, Lovlina Borgohain Win Gold Medals at the Women’s National Boxing Championships 2022
Lovlina Borgohain and Nikhat Zareen won gold medals in their respective weight categories at the Women’s National Boxing Championships 2022 in Bhopal
Key Points
Assam’s Lovlina Borgohain beat Arundhati Choudhary of Services 5-0 in the 75kg final, while Nikhat endured a hard test from Anamika of the RSPB in the 50kg final before the 26-year-old Telangana pugilist won 4-1 to defend her championship.
The Railways team topped the medals tally with 10 medals – five golds, three silvers and two bronze.
Madhya Pradesh, with one gold, two silver and five bronze, and Haryana (two gold and two bronze) claimed second and third position, respectively.
Manipur’s young boxer Sanamacha Thokchom Chanu, who won gold medal at the 2021 Youth World Championships, also put up an impressive show to secure the title in the 70kg by beating Madhya Pradesh’s Shruti Yadav 3-2 in the final.
Haryana’s Manisha (57kg) and Saweety Boora (81kg), SSCB’s Sakshi (52kg), Madhya Pradesh’s Manju Bamboria (66kg) also clinched gold medals in their respective categories at the tournament, which witnessed participation of 302 boxers fighting in 12 categories.
RRR bagged three awards at Philadelphia Film Critics Circle Annual Awards
The Indian film, ‘RRR’ has bagged three awards at the 2022 Philadelphia Film Critics Circle Annual Awards. The film has won three awards at the Philadelphia Film Critics Circle Annual Awards.
Categories – Best Foreign Language Film, Best Cinematography, and Best Score/Soundtrack.
Earlier, the film has also received nominations in two categories for 2023 Golden Globes. The film has been nominated in the Best Picture – Non-English Language category and “Naatu Naatu” in the Best Original Song – Motion Picture category.
This film also bagged four nominations at the inaugural HCA Creative Arts Awards 2023 which included Sreekar Prasad for Best Editing, Srinivas Mohan for Best VFX, M. M. Keeravaani for Best Original Song – ‘Naatu Naatu’, and King Solomon for Best Stunts.
Hansraj Gangaram Ahir appointed as the Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)
Hansraj Gangaram Ahir assumed charge as Chairperson, National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). He had been elected four times Member of Parliament from Parliamentary Constituency Chandrapur, Maharashtra and also he was Member of Maharashtra Legislative Council.
He had been Member of various Standing Committees of Parliament and also served as the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Coal and Steel. He had been Union Minister of State for Home Affairs and Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Govt of India the 16th Lok Sabha.
About National Commission for Backward Classes
National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was initially constituted by the Central Govt by the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993.
The National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993 (27 of 1993) has been repealed through the National Commission for Backward Classes (Repeal) Act, 2018 dated 14.08.2018.
The present Commission has been accorded Constitutional Status and constituted through “The Constitution (One Hundred and Second Amendment) Act, 2018” Act dated 11.8.2018, whereby Article 338B has been inserted, forming a Commission for the socially and educationally backward classes to be known as National Commission for Backward Classes.
The Commission consists of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and three other Members in the rank & pay of Secretary to the Govt of India and their condition of service and tenure of office has been notified vide Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Notification dated 23.08.2018.
India’s first Gold ATM has been launched in Hyderabad
India’s first Gold ATM and world’s first real-time Gold ATM has been launched at Begumpet, Hyderabad. The ATM was set up by the Goldsikka in collaboration with Opencube Technologies (Technology support).
Key Points
The firm’s first ATM has been installed at its head office in Ashoka Raghupathi Chambers, Begumpet, and it aims to install such ATMs throughout the city, especially in rural areas.
This ATM can dispense gold coins in different denominations ranging from 0.5 gm to 100 grams
The ATM, the firm says, aims to give access to a “varied audience”. Anybody can withdraw gold anywhere – 24*7 – with the machine is said to be the goal.
Apart from debit and credit cards, buyers can also use prepaid and postpaid smart cards to withdraw the yellow metal.
The update in the price of gold is based on the live prices.
Each ATM has a capacity of holding up to 5 kg of gold, worth around Rs. 2-3 crores.
There are eight available options, including 0.5 grams, 1 gram, 2 grams, 5 grams, 10 grams, 20 grams, 50 grams and 100 grams,” On security features, Security measures like inbuilt camera in the machine, alarm system, external CCTV cameras are there.
Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Nepal
Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Nepal for the third time. He replaced Sher Bahadur Deuba of the Nepali Congress party.
A coalition of 6 parties have decided to project Pushpa Kamal Dahal as the Prime Minister. An agreement has been reached. Dahal will lead the Govt for two and a half years and the CPN-UML will be in power in the remaining two-and-a-half years,” Barshaman Pun, leader of the Communist Party of Nepal.
The Indian govt is considering to shift from “Minimum” to “Living” Wages
The Union Labour Ministry is currently mulling to shift from the “minimum wages” to “living wages” in a bid to bring more people from poverty in the country.
The Indian Govt is considering to shift from the minimum wage to the living wage to eliminate poverty in the country. If such a shift happens, it would have significant financial implications for India and the Govt. It will make Sustainable Development Goal commitments easily achievable.
India is planning to receive assistance from the International Labour Organization (ILO) to understand what constitutes a living wage since it is highly subjective.
Difference between living wage and minimum wage
The term ‘living wage’ is defined as the minimum income necessary for workers to meet their basic necessities. It is different from the minimum wage, which is based on labor productivity and skill sets.
Minimum wage is the lowest amount of money a laborer can earn as mandated by the law. It does not change based on inflation. It can increase only with Govt intervention. This is not true for the living wage.
The living wage is determined by the average cost to live comfortably, while the minimum wage is the fixed amount set by the Govt.
The difference between the minimum wage and the living wage can range between 10 and 25 percent based on the cost of living in a specific place.
First Bekal International Beach Festival in Kerala
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has inaugurated the 10-day first international beach festival, that captures the wholeness and the essence of the district’s cultural and artistic uniqueness and displays the rich cultural diversity and grandeur of the country, at the majestic Bekal Beach Park.
About Bekal International Beach festival
It is put on by the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC) in collaboration with the district’s local self-Govt entities, Kudumbashree, Asmi Holidays, and the District Tourism Promotion Council.
This festival showcases the country’s rich cultural diversity and magnificence in the majestic Bekal Beach Park.
The festival reflects a cross-section of culture and the unique identity of the land.
More than 1,000 international, national and local artists performed at the Beach Festival.
