Current Affairs For Cuet 2025

CURRENT AFFAIRS
JANUARY 2024
CONTENTS
 National News 3
 Government Schemes 5
 International News 7
 Banking, Finance and Economy News 9
 Defence News 14
 People in News/Appointments 16
 Books and Authors 17
 Obituaries (National) 17
 Obituaries (International) 17
 Days and Themes 17
 Reports, Rankings and Index 18
 Events 19
 Awards and Honours 20
 Sports News 25
January 2024 3
NATIONAL NEWS
Ayodhya Ram Mandir inaugurated by Prime Minister • The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru,
Narendra Modi provided technical support on the Sun’s path and
• The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya’s Optica, a Bengaluru-based company, is involved in
temple took place on January 22, 2024. manufacturing the lenses and brass tubes.
• The idol of Lord Ram has been placed inside the India celebrates its 75th Republic Day
sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya. The
• India celebrated its 75th Republic Day on January 26,
idol which is carved by Mysuru-based sculptor
2024, Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the
Arun Yogiraj, stands 51 inches tall and weighs
Constitution of India on January 26, 1950. On this day,
1.5 tonnes.
India became a sovereign republic state.
• It portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing
• The 2024 Republic Day parade was held at Kartavya
on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. PM Modi
Path in Delhi and featured the Indian army, navy, air
performed rituals to mark the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ along
force, police and paramilitary forces.
with a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit.
• The Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path showcased
Key Points the themes of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat – Loktantra
ki Matruka’ emphasising India’s role as a nurturer of
Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister – Yogi Adityanath
democracy.
Uttar Pradesh’s Capital – Lucknow
• For the first time, an all-women tri-services contingent
Uttar Pradesh’s Governor – Anandiben Patel participated in the parade.
• The parade featured a unique installation called ‘Anant
World’s largest lamp lit in Ayodhya ahead of opening of Sutra,’ which showcased sarees and drapes from all
the Ram Temple over India.
• The world’s largest 300-foot lamp was lit in Ayodhya • A 95-member contingent and a 33-member band
using 1.25 quintals of cotton and 21,000 litres of oil. contingent from France participated in the parade.
• Soil and water from different places across the country,
Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) to build Masjid
along with cow’s ghee were used to prepare this lamp.
Muhammed bin Abdullah mosque in Ayodhya
It is also unique because oil was specially brought from
Sita Mata’s parental homeland. • IICF has announced the start of construction on a
grand mosque in Ayodhya, beginning in May.
Scientists gift Surya Tilak, a Mirror and Lens System for
• The mosque will be named ‘Masjid Muhammed bin
Ram Lalla idol
Abdullah’ after Prophet Muhammad.
• Scientists from the Central Building Research Institute • The project is expected to take three to four years
(CBRI), Roorkee designed a special mirror- and lens- and will redefine the cityscape of Ayodhya while
based apparatus which will ensure that every Ram symbolising communal harmony.
Navami day at noon, a ray of sunlight falls directly on
the forehead of the ‘achal Ram Lalla’ idol. Union Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh inaugurates the
• It is officially called the ‘Surya Tilak mechanism’. It first all-girls Sainik School at Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
would be fully operational when the full temple is • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the
constructed. first all-girls Sainik School in Vrindavan, marking a
• A gearbox and reflective mirrors and lenses have significant advancement in women’s empowerment
been arranged such that sun rays from the third and educational reform in India.
floor near the shikara will be brought to Garbha • The school, known as Samvid Gurukulam Girls Sainik
Griha using well-known principles of tracking the School, has a capacity of nearly 870 students and is
Sun’s path. part of a broader initiative to establish 100 new Sainik
4 OSWAAL Current Affairs
Schools across India in partnership with NGOs, private includes scholarly articles, insightful reports and rare
entities and state governments. photographs from The Hindu Archives.
• The school is affiliated with CBSE and will provide
India recognises Farsi as one of its nine classical
education and training guided by ex-servicemen.
languages
• The decision to admit girls to Sainik Schools was
• In a significant development aimed at strengthening
approved in 2019 to promote gender equality in
cultural bonds, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
educational and career opportunities.
announced that the Indian government has chosen to
ISRO launches X-ray polarimeter satellite to study black designate Farsi (Persian) as one of the nine classical
holes languages in India under the New Education Policy.
• ISRO successfully launched its first mission of 2024, • Tamil was the first language in India to receive classical
XPoSat, along with 10 other satellites. language status in 2004. All the classical languages are
• XPoSat is India’s first X-ray polarimeter satellite, aims listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
to investigate the polarisation of intense X-ray sources • The Ministry of Culture provides guidelines regarding
and study the enigmatic world of black holes. classical languages.
Key Points Key Points

ISRO’s Headquarters – Bengaluru, Karnataka Union Minister of Culture – G. Kishan Reddy
ISRO’s Chairman – S. Somnath
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik inaugurates Jagannath
PM Narendra Modi dedicates DFR plant in Tamil Nadu temple corridor project
to the nation • Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik dedicated the
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the Srimandir Parikrama Project to the public under which
Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant a 75-metre heritage corridor has been built around the
(DFRP) at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic perimeter of the 12th century Jagannath temple.
Research in Kalpakkam, Chengalpattu district, Tamil • The corridor is divided into nine distinct zones, each
Nadu to the nation. serving a specific purpose, aimed at enhancing the
• This facility is designed to reprocess fuel from Prototype visitor experience and preserving the cultural heritage
Fast Breeder Reactors (PFBR), marking a significant of the temple.
advancement in India’s nuclear capabilities. • The corridor offers facilities like circumambulation
• DFRP houses several indigenously designed and by devotees, smoother pedestrian flow, cloakrooms,
developed novel pieces of equipment. toilets and 1.5-km-long bridge that would bring people
close to the temple, bypassing the crowd in the holy
PM Modi presented with a coffee table book on town.
Srirangam
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with ISRO to launch INSAT-3DS satellite from Sriharikota,
a coffee table book, Srirangam – The Resplendent Andhra Pradesh
Kingdom of Rangaraja by BJP State President K. • ISRO will launch its latest meteorological satellite,
Annamalai during his visit to Tiruchi, Tamil Nadu. INSAT-3DS. This satellite will enhance weather
• The book titled ‘Srirangam – The Resplendent forecasting and disaster management and is the result
Kingdom of Rangaraja,’ published by The Hindu of thorough testing and collaboration.
Group of Publication, explores the wonders of the Sri • It is designed to provide continuity of services while
Ranganathaswamy Temple. augmenting the capabilities of previous INSAT
• It is divided into 11 sections, and the book delves into satellites.
the temple’s unique architecture, religious and cultural • INSAT is the Indian National Satellite System and
traditions, and various festivals celebrated there. It also it includes a series of multipurpose geostationary
January 2024 5
satellites to meet telecommunication, search and rescue • This initiative aims to develop an investment and
operations, broadcasting and meteorology needs. partnership strategy to advance climate-resilient
agrifood systems among the government, private
India to start world’s first (Melanistic) black tiger safari
sectors farmers’ organisations and financial institutions
in Odisha
in India.
• Odisha will start a melanistic tiger safari near Similipal
Tiger Reserve (STR). It will be a groundbreaking Key Points
initiative, the first of its kind globally. The safari is set
FAO’s Headquarters – Rome, Italy
to be located near Baripada in the Mayurbhanj district,
Odisha. Director General – Qu Dongyu
• Notably, STR stands as the sole habitat for melanistic Union Minister of – Arjun Munda
tigers worldwide, as per the last All India Tiger Agriculture and
Estimation Report released by the National Tiger Farmers’ Welfare
Conservation Authority (NTCA) in 2018. Niti Aayog’s CEO – B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
• This move aims to provide tourists and visitors with Niti Aayog’s Vice-Chairman – Suman Bery
a unique opportunity to witness the rare and majestic
species found exclusively in Odisha. Headquarters – New Delhi
• Melanism is a genetic condition in which an increased

production of melanin, a substance in the skin that Launch of ‘Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity
produces hair, eye, and skin pigmentation, results in and Equality’ by India at World Economic Forum, annual
black (or nearly black) skin, feathers, or hair in an meeting in Davos
animal. • The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting was
held at Davos, Switzerland from 15 to 19 January 2024
Key Points with the theme ‘Rebuilding Trust’.
Odisha’s Chief Minister – Naveen Patnaik • India participated in the spirit of “Vasudhaiva
Odisha’s Capital – Bhubaneswar Kutumbakam”, ready to shape a common future
Governor – Raghubar Das marked by global cooperation.
• One of the key takeaways from the forum meeting was
Investment Forum for Advancing Climate Resilient the announcement of the launch of a ‘Global Good
Agrifood Systems in India launched Alliance for Gender Equity and Equality’ with the
• NITI Aayog, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ support and endorsed by WEF and the Government
Welfare (MoA&FW), the Government of India, and of India.
the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the • The primary and stated objective of this new alliance
United Nations jointly launched the ‘Investment is to bring together global best practices, knowledge
Forum for Advancing Climate Resilient Agrifood sharing and investments in the identified areas of
Systems in India’ in New Delhi. women’s health, education and enterprise.
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
Health Ministry announces new treatment regimen for • The WHO’s recommended treatment regimen consists
leprosy of three drugs — dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine.
• The Central government has approved a new three- The combination is referred to as MDT. MDT kills the
drug treatment regimen for leprosy patients, aiming pathogen and cures the patient.
to stop transmission of the disease in India by 2027.
• The move seeks to make a transition from a two-drug Key Points
regimen to a three-drug regimen for Pauci-Bacillary Union Health Minister – Mansukh Mandaviya
(PB) leprosy cases.
Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana launched I. ACROSS: Atmosphere and Climate Research-
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Modelling Observing Systems & Services.
‘Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana’ under which one II. O-SMART: Ocean Services, Modelling
crore households will get rooftop solar energy across Application, Resources and Technology.
the nation to provide electricity from solar energy. III. PACER: Polar Science and Cryosphere Research.
• Rooftop solar panels are the photovoltaic panels IV. SAGE: Seismology and Geosciences
installed on the roof of a building which is connected V. REACHOUT: Research, Education, Training and
to the main power supply unit. Thus, it reduces the Outreach.
consumption of grid-connected electricity and saves
electricity costs for the consumer. Uttar Pradesh government launches ‘Navya Ayodhya’
scheme
PAiSA Dashboard & PM SVANidhi (Street Vendor Atma
• The Uttar Pradesh government launched ‘Navya
Nirbhar Nidhi) mission monitoring portal launched
Ayodhya’ project which primarily focuses on
• Hardeep S. Puri, Minister for Housing and Urban empowering residents to provide paying guest
Affairs, and Petroleum and Natural Gas unveiled accommodations and homestays for tourists, devotees
PAiSA Dashboard & PM SVANidhi portal. and travellers.
• PAiSA dashboard provides real-time updates on the
PM SVANidhi mission scheme, allowing vendors Ministry of Education launches PRERANA
to monitor loan applications, disbursements, and programme
repayments easily, fostering transparency and • The Department of School Education & Literacy,
accountability. Ministry of Education, Government of India has
• PM SAVNidhi portal offers comprehensive data and launched ‘Prerana: An Experiential Learning Program’,
insights on the nationwide implementation of the aiming to offer a meaningful, unique and inspiring
scheme, enabling stakeholders to monitor progress, experience to all participants, thereby empowering
identify challenges and ensures effective execution. them with leadership qualities.
• Prerana is driven by a strong commitment to integrate
Chhattisgarh launches Shri Ram Lala Darshan scheme
principles of the Indian education system and the
• The Chhattisgarh government launched the ‘Shri
philosophy of value-based education which is a
Ramlala Darshan scheme’ in which 20,000 pilgrims
cornerstone of the National Education Policy (NEP)
will be taken for the Shri Ram Lala Darshan annually.
2020.
• The pilgrims will be natives of Chhattisgarh aged 18
• Prerana is a week-long residential programme for
to 75 who are found fit in the health examination
selected students of classes IX to XII. It is an experiential
conducted by the district medical board.
and inspirational learning programme for students
Key Points with the best-in-class technology where heritage meets
Chhattisgarh Capital – Raipur innovation
Chief Minister – Vishnu Deo Sai Key Points

Union Minister of – Dharmendra Pradhan
Cabinet approves PRITHVI scheme
Education
• The Union Cabinet approved the comprehensive
scheme ‘PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)’ by the Ministry Mamata Banerjee launches Yogyasree for SC/ST students
of Earth Sciences for the period from 2021 to 2026. in West Bengal
• It spans five sub-schemes, aiming to enhance Earth • West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has
System Sciences and provide crucial services for recently launched the ‘Yogyasree’ scheme, which
societal, environmental and economic well-being. provides free training modules for Scheduled Caste
• These are (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students.
January 2024 7
• The initiative focuses on preparing them for entrance • The Kerala Drug Control Department is taking action
and competitive exams. 50 training centres have been against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) through
established across the state for this purpose. operation AMRITH.
• Additionally, 46 centres will offer similar opportunities • This initiative aims to reduce antibiotic misuse by
for those interested in government jobs and civil conducting surprise raids in pharmacies and detecting
services. over-the-counter antibiotic sales without prescriptions.
• In conjunction with the Yogyasree scheme, Banerjee • AMR refers to bacteria and microbes becoming resistant
has introduced an anti-ragging toll-free number for to drugs. The Drugs Control Department plays a
students. crucial role in optimising antibiotic use by preventing
over-the-counter sales.
Key Points
West Bengal’s Capital – Kolkata Key Points
Kerala’s Capital – Thiruvananthapuram
West Bengal’s Governor – C.V. Ananda Bose
Kerala’s Governor – Arif Mohammad Khan
Kerala’s Chief Minister – P. Vijayan
Yuva Nidhi Scheme launched for jobless youth in
Shivamogga, Karnataka
Union Minister of Fisheries Sri Parshotham Rupal
• Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah introduced
launches project for artificial reefs in vizhinjam to boost
the ‘Yuva Nidhi’ scheme that aims to provide
fish population
unemployment assistance to graduates and diploma
holders who completed their degrees in 2022–23. • Union Minister of Fisheries Sri Parshotham Rupala
• The scheme offers ‘3,000 per month to degree holders launched the project of depositing artificial reefs in the
and ‘1,500 per month to diploma holders who haven’t seabed in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram.
found employment in the last six months. • The project, a joint initiative of the Central and State
• The benefit is only available to Karnataka residents. governments, is aimed at increasing the income of
fishermen by enhancing the fish population in the
region.
Key Points
• The project is being implemented under Pradhan
Karnataka’s Capital – Bengaluru
Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana with a total outlay of
Karnataka’s Governor – Thawar Chand Gehlot
13.02 crore.
• These reefs create an artificial habitat on the seafloor,
Kerala launches operation AMRITH to combat creating favourable conditions for fish breeding and
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) their sustainable survival.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) signs 1.1 • The contract is likely to yield about 220,000 rounds of
billion euro contract for 155 mm artillery ammunition artillery ammunition, with the first deliveries expected
• NATO signed a 1.1 billion euro contract for hundreds at the end of 2025.
of thousands of 155 mm artillery rounds. Key Points
• The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) NATO’s Headquarters – Brussels, Belgium
struck the deal on behalf of several allies who will
Total Members – 31
either pass on the shells to Ukraine or use them to
stock up their own depleted inventories. Secretary General – Jens Stoltenberg
Cameroon launches world’s first nationwide malaria Egypt unveils solar power stations at World Heritage
vaccination programme Sites
• Cameroon is set to become the first country in the world • Egypt has taken a significant step towards sustainable
to launch the first malaria vaccination programme to energy and environmental conservation by officially
be offered nationwide. inaugurating solar power stations at five renowned
• It will be given to the children as a part of its National Egyptian world heritage sites and museums.
Immunisation Programme (NIP). • This initiative, known as the Egypt PV project, aims to
• The country’s malaria vaccine programme, with a foster the market for rooftop small-scale photovoltaic
four-dose schedule, targets all children who were six systems in Egypt.
months or older on December 31, 2023. • This project was funded by the Global Environ-
ment Facility and the European Union in line with
Key Points
Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13 and Egypt’s
Cameroon’s Capital – Yaounde Vision 2023.
President – Paul Biya • The solar power stations have been installed at the
Giza Plateau’s Visitor Centre, Manial Palace in Cairo,
Denmark’s King Frederik X Takes the Throne as Queen Sharm El Sheikh Museum and the National and Royal
Margrethe II Steps Down After 52 Years Jewelry Museums in Alexandria.
• Denmark made history on January 14 when King
Frederik X became the new monarch, succeeding his Key Points
mother, Queen Margrethe II, who abdicated after 52 Egypt’s Capital – Cairo
years.
President – Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
• Queen Margrethe II announced on New Year’s Eve,
as she revealed her plans to voluntarily relinquish the
throne at the age of 83. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and
• The succession process was formalised as she signed European Union (EU) allocate funds to Papua New
the declaration of her abdication. Guinea
• The UNDP and EU have granted over US$ 420,000
Key Points to combat deforestation, improve food security and
Denmark’s Capital – Copenhagen address climate change impacts in Enga Province,
Denmark’s Prime Minister – Mette Frederiksen Papua New Guinea.
• This is the second round of support for community
Russia assumes the BRICS Chairmanship from organisations in Enga Province.
January 1, 2024
• On January 1, Russian President Vladimir Putin Key Points
officially began Russia’s 2024 BRICS Chairmanship, UNDP’s Headquarters – New York
with the motto ‘Strengthening Multilateralism for Head – Achim Setiner
Equitable Global Development and Security’.
• Russia’s priorities for the BRICS Chairmanship include
IIT Madras to establish new campus in Kandy,
cooperation in various sectors like science, technology,
Sri Lanka
healthcare, environment, culture, sports, youth
exchanges and civil society. • IIT – Madras is expanding by establishing a new
• BRICS is an international intergovernmental campus in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
organisation with Brazil, Russia, India, China, South • Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremasinghe announ-
Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab ced the proposal for the campus, which aims to
Emirates as its members. Brazil, Russia, India and provide affordable higher education for Sri Lankan
China were the founding members. students.
January 2024 9
UNDP and Denmark launch ‘green rooms’ in Maersk reveals the world’s largest ship fueled by
Zaporizhzhia methanol
• The UNDP, in collaboration with the Government of • In a major step towards sustainability, Maersk has
Denmark, has introduced a groundbreaking initiative unveiled the Ane Maersk, a container vessel powered
in Ukraine – the establishment of ‘green rooms’ at by green methanol derived from green hydrogen.
the National Police headquarters in Zaporizhzhia This marks a revolutionary shift towards eco-friendly
Oblast. maritime transportation.
• This project aims to create a safe and supportive • The Ane Maersk is the world’s largest container vessel
environment for effective communication between law fuelled by green methanol, showcasing Maersk’s
enforcement officers and child survivors or witnesses commitment to sustainability and a new era of
of crime. container shipping.
• Green rooms are specially designed spaces within • With a capacity of 16,000 containers, the Ane Maersk
police facilities that prioritise the well-being and rights surpasses its predecessor by eightfold, demonstrating
of child survivors during legal processes. the scale and efficiency of sustainable container
shipping.
Key Points
France and Germany to fund India’s AMRUT mission
UNDP’s Headquarters – New York
• France’s development agency AFD and Germany’s
Head – Achim Setiner KfW Bank are in talks with India to provide a €100
million loan to fund the country’s urban infrastructure
Britain signs a security agreement with Ukraine plan, AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and British Urban Transformation) mission.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak signed a security accord • This collaboration follows their recent partnership on
between the two countries. the CITIIS (City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and
• This security accord will remain in effect until Ukraine Sustain) 2.0 program, highlighting their commitment
joins NATO. to sustainable urban development in India.
• CITIIS 2.0 focuses on urban renewal and sustainable
Saudi Arabia set to open first alcohol store for non-
waste management, with both France and Germany
Muslim diplomats
contributing 100 million each to the programme.
• Saudi Arabia is preparing to open its first alcohol store
exclusively for diplomats, marking a significant change India and Nepal seal 10,000 MW hydropower deal for
in the country’s approach to alcohol. 10 years
• This move is part of the socio-economic reforms • India and Nepal signed agreements for the purchase
introduced under Vision 2030, led by Crown Prince of 10,000 MW of hydropower by India from Nepal.
Mohammed bin Salman. The agreement will facilitate the export of 10,000 MW
• The store will only be accessible to diplomats and is of electricity from Nepal to India over the next 10 years.
seen as a way to accommodate their lifestyles and • This agreement signed by Foreign Affairs Minister S.
improve international relations. Jaishankar during his visit to Nepal.
BANKING, FINANCE AND ECONOMY NEWS
Nirmala Sitharaman becomes the second Finance • This year’s budget is an interim budget serving as a
Minister to present six consecutive Union Budgets vote-on-account until a new administration takes over
• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman after the general elections.
presented her sixth consecutive budget on Feb 1, • The former Prime Minister Morarji Desai holds
2024, an unprecedented achievement in Indian the record for presenting 10 Budgets, including six
parliamentary history. consecutive ones.
DGCA, regulator fines Air India ‘1.1 cr for violating Finance Ministry releases ‘The Indian Economy: A
flight safety rules Review – January 2024’ instead of ‘Economic Survey
• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has 2023–24’ ahead of Interim Budget 2024–25
imposed a ‘1.1 crore fine on Air India for violating • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the
safety rules on flights on certain long-range routes that Interim Budget 2024–25 on February 1.
were ‘critical’ in terms of terrain. • Every year, a day before the presentation of the
• In a complaint filed with the DGCA in October last budget document, the central government presents
year, a pilot accused the Tata Group-run airline of an Economic Survey. However, a survey will not
carrying insufficient emergency oxygen on its B777 be presented on January 31, the budget being of an
aircraft operating on India–US routes. The DGCA, after interim nature and in light of the upcoming elections.
an investigation, found merit in the pilot’s allegations • In the recently released mini-annual economic
and imposed the aforementioned penalty. survey titled ‘The Indian Economy: A Review,’ Chief
• Air India is a Tata Group subsidiary. Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran outlines
India’s potential to reach a $7 trillion economy by 2030.
Key Points • This comprehensive 74-page document, a precursor to
Union Minister of – Jyotiraditya Scindia the upcoming Interim Union Budget 2024, delves into
Civil Aviation the country’s real growth rate projections for the fiscal
DGCA’s Director General – Vikram Dev Dutt year and highlights key challenges.
DGCA’s Headquarters – New Delhi CoRover.ai unveils BharatGPT a GenAI as a service

Air India’s CEO & MD – Campbell Wilson • CoRover.ai has introduced BharatGPT, India’s
first Large Language Model (LLM), which aims to
IREDA releases Vigilance Journal ‘Pahal' revolutionise AI conversations in 22 Indian languages,
• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency addressing language diversity challenges.
(IREDA), a Government of India enterprise under the • BharatGPT seamlessly integrates with voice and text,
administrative control of the Ministry of New and providing a unique solution to linguistic diversity
Renewable Energy, has unveiled ‘Pahal’ – the insightful complexities.
house journal of its Vigilance Department. • It supports voice modality in 12 Indian languages
• The initiative marks a significant step towards and text modality in 22 languages, thanks to the
transparency, accountability and the promotion of collaboration with the National Hub of Language
renewable energy initiatives by IREDA. Technology under the Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology’s National Language
Key Points Translation Mission.
IREDA’s CMD – Pradip Kumar Das • CoRover.ai, already providing AI Virtual Assistants to
organisations, including IRCTC, LIC, IGL and NPCI,
IREDA’s Headquarters – New Delhi
has integrated BharatGPT into its existing platforms.
Bhavish Aggarwal’s AI startup Krutrim becomes India’s • The CoRover Conversational AI platform enables
first unicorn in 2024 developers and business users to create text and voice-
enabled multilingual virtual assistants effortlessly.
• Bhavish Aggarwal, the visionary behind Ola, has
raised $50 million for his AI start-up, Krutrim. Union Rural Development Ministry signs pact with SBI
• The funding round, led by Matrix Partners India, has to facilitate loans for SHGs
propelled Krutrim to unicorn status with a valuation • The Rural Development Ministry and the State Bank of
of $1 billion. Krutrim’s mission is to accelerate AI India signed an MoU to facilitate enterprise financing
innovation and lead the industry globally. for rural Self-Help Groups (SHG).
• They have introduced the Krutrim Base Model and • State Bank of India introduced a specialised financial
the upcoming Krutrim Pro Model to revolutionise AI product Svyam Siddha, exclusively tailored for SHG
solutions. women entrepreneurs seeking loans up to ‘5 lakhs.
January 2024 11
• This initiative is designed to alleviate the challenges • The agreement was signed on December 22, 2021
associated with extensive documentation requirements and involved ZEEL and Culver Max Entertainment
for bank loan applications and reduce the turnaround (formerly Sony Pictures Networks India).
time (TAT).
Key Points
Key Points
Sony’s Headquarters – Tokyo, Japan
Union Minister of Rural – Giriraj Singh
Development and Panchayati Raj Sony’s Chairman – Kenichiro Yoshida
Zee’s CEO – Punit Goenka
Bank credit expansion projected at 15% in FY24, 12% in Zee’s Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
FY25: ICRA
• ICRA has revised its bank credit growth estimates for ONGC receives petroleum ministry nod to form green
FY24 upwards to 14.9–15.3%, surpassing the previous energy subsidiary
projection of 12.8–13.0%.
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has received
• The surge is attributed to strong performance in the
approval from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry
retail segment and non–banking finance companies
for the formation of a subsidiary company for green
(NBFCs).
energy and gas business.
• The incremental credit is expected to reach ‘20.4–20.9
trillion, the highest ever recorded in bank credit • The subsidiary will engage in businesses related
growth. ICRA anticipates corporate bond issuances to to green hydrogen, hydrogen blending, renewable
reach ‘9.6–9.9 trillion in FY24. energy including solar, wind and hybrid, bio-fuels and
• However, concerns for FY25 include deposit mobili- bio-gas business and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
sation challenges and weaker export demand. ICRA
predicts a record incremental deposit mobilisation of Key Points
‘21.7–22.3 trillion in FY24. Union Minister of Petroleum – Hardeep Singh Puri
India’s ACME and Japan’s IHI sign historic Green ONGC’s Headquarters – Delhi
Ammonia Supply Pact ONGC’s Chairman and CEO – Arun Kumar Singh
• India’s ACME Group and Japan’s IHI Corporation
have signed a deal to supply 0.4 million metric tons per Maharashtra signs investment MoUs worth ‘3.53 trillion
year of green ammonia from Odisha, India to Japan.
in Davos
• The agreement establishes a long–term partnership for
• Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced
the production, logistics and supply of green ammonia
in Japan. the signing of 19 MoUs during his visit to the World
Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, bringing
• The green hydrogen and ammonia project in
Gopalpur, Odisha, aims to start production by 2027 them closer to their goal of a USD 1 trillion economy.
and contribute to a 54 million-ton reduction in CO2 • The MoUs amount to ‘3.53 lakh crore of investments
equivalent emissions. across sectors like electronics, IT, data centres, gems
and jewellery, agriculture, automobile and renewable
Sony terminates $10 billion merger deal with Zee
energy.
Entertainment
• An additional expression of interest for ‘1 lakh crore
• Japan’s Sony Group scrapped plans for a $10 billion
was received, bringing the potential investment up to
merger with India’s Zee Entertainment, with both
sides set to challenge each other legally over failures ‘4.5 lakh crore.
to close a deal that was due to reshape the country’s • This investment has the potential to create around two
media landscape. lakh jobs.
Solutions, to support MSMEs and enhance working

Key Points
capital efficiencies.
Maharashtra’s Capital – Mumbai and Nagpur
• The platform offers end-to-end digital solutions that
(winter)
improve operational and financial efficiencies across
Maharashtra’s Governor – Ramesh Mais the supply chain.
Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge inaugurated by PM Key Points

Modi Yes Bank’s Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
• PM Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Mumbai Chairman – Sunil Mehta
Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as Atal Setu.
MD & CEO – Prashant Kumar
• It is India’s longest sea bridge with 21.8 km in length.
The bridge, built in honour of late Prime Minister Atal
MoU between India, USAID/India to help Railways
Bihari Vajpayee, includes a 16.5 km section over the sea
achieve net-zero emissions
and a 5.5 km portion on solid ground.
• It was built at a cost of about ‘17,840 crore. • The Union Cabinet approved an MoU signed between
India and USAID/India to help the Indian Railways
• The bridge will reduce travel time from Mumbai to
achieve net-zero carbon emission by 2030.
Pune, Goa and South India, cutting it down from two
hours to just 15–20 minutes. • It provides a platform for Indian Railways to interact
and share the latest developments and knowledge in
India secures lithium blocks in Argentina the railway sector.
• India secured exploration and development rights for
five lithium blocks in Argentina as part of its efforts to Key Points
reduce its lithium import dependency. USAID’s Headquarters – Washington DC, US
• Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) and Catamarca USAID’s Administrator – Samantha Power
Minera Y Energtica Sociedad Del Estado (CAMYEN), an
Union Minister of Railways – Ashwini Vaishnaw
Argentine state-owned mining and energy company,
have finalised the deal.
• This move follows a partnership with Australia in 2022. West Bengal secures Geographical Indication (GI) tags
for Sundarban honey, Black Nunia rice, Tangail, Gorod
SBI launches Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD) & Kadiyal sarees
• State Bank of India has introduced a special fixed • West Bengal has obtained GI tags for various products,
deposit scheme called SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit such as Sunderbans honey (locally known as ‘Mouban'),
(SGRTD) to gather funds for environmentally-friendly Black Nunia rice (referred to as the ‘Prince of Rice'),
projects in India. and Tangail, Gorod and Kadiyal sarees.
• It aligns with the government’s goal of achieving net • GI tags protect the unique identity and quality of these
carbon neutrality by 2070. regional products. The GI recognition benefits the
• It offers investors the flexibility to choose from three ‘Mouli’ community that collects Sunderbans honey by
distinct tenors: 1111 days, 1777 days and 2222 days. providing economic opportunities.
• The ‘Prince of Rice’ is the unique variety of rice from
Key Points
Jalpaiguri district that has obtained a GI tag. Mirzapur
SBI’s Headquarters – Mumbai
in Murshidabad district is known for producing
Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara exclusive Kadiyal sarees, which now enjoy protection
through the GI tag.
Yes Bank introduces Veefins SmartFin for Digital Supply • The GI tags provide legal recognition and safeguards
Chain Finance against unauthorised use, contributing to the economic
• Yes Bank has launched SmartFin, a digital Supply prosperity of local communities and preserving the
Chain Finance (SCF) platform developed with Veefin state’s cultural and agricultural legacy.
January 2024 13
Adidas to set up its first Asia GCC outside China in • The 50-day accelerator programme offers mentorship,
Tamil Nadu capacity building, resources, networking opportunities
• Adidas is establishing its first Global Capacity Centre and a chance to pitch to banks and investors.
(GCC) in Asia outside of China in Chennai, India.
Key Points
• This strategic move allows Adidas to focus on key
processes critical to its global operations and harness RBI’s Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
India’s software skills. RBI’s Governor – Shaktikanta Das
Karnataka Bank and Clix Capital enter into a co-lending Union Bank of India’s – A. Manimekhalai
partnership via Yubi Platform MD & CEO
• Karnataka Bank and Clix Capital have partnered Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
through the Yubi Co.lend Platform to provide loans to
the Indian MSME sector. National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) takes the
• This alliance aligns with RBI guidelines on co-lending ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ initiative to enhance National
to priority sectors. Highway experience
• Karnataka Bank brings financial strength and digital • NHAI has introduced the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’
capabilities to the collaboration. The platform facilita- initiative to minimise misuse of FASTags.
ting the partnership is the Yubi Co.lend Platform. • NHAI is also encouraging FASTag users to complete
World Economic Forum signs agreement with Telangana the ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process of their latest
on C4IR FASTag by updating KYC as per RBI guidelines.
• The World Economic Forum and the Telangana • FASTags with valid balances but with incomplete KYC
government are partnering to establish the 19th Centre will get deactivated/blacklisted by banks post-31st
of the WEF’s Fourth Industrial Revolution Network January 2024.
(4IR) in Hyderabad. • NHAI has taken this initiative after the recent reports of
• The centre, which will focus on health tech and life multiple FASTags being issued for a particular vehicle
sciences, is set to launch in February 2024. and FASTags being issued without KYC in violation of
• This collaboration aims to advance healthcare RBI’s mandate.
technology and improve lifestyles and living standards.
Key Points
The centre will lead initiatives for healthcare and life
sciences, particularly in rural areas. NHAI’s Chairman – Santosh Kumar Yadav
NHAI’s Headquarters – Delhi
Key Points
WEF’s Founder – Klaus Schwab
GAIL signs long-term LNG deal with UAE’s ADNOC
WEF’s President – Børge Brende Gas
Headquarters – Cologny, Switzerland • GAIL has signed a deal with UAE’s ADNOC Gas to
buy 0.5 million tonnes of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
DLabs at ISB launches ‘Build for Billions’ jointly with annually for ten years.
RBI Innovation Hub, Union Bank of India • The ADNOC deal bridges the demand-supply gap
• DLabs at the Indian School of Business (ISB) launched and fosters strategic partnerships. GAIL’s agreement
‘Build for Billions’, a startup accelerator programme, with ADNOC is its second long-term deal in the same
themed around financial inclusion for the informal month, following a similar deal with Vitol.
economy, in partnership with the Reserve Bank
Innovation Hub (RBIH) and Union Bank of India. Key Points
• The programme focuses on fostering financial inclusion GAIL’s Headquarters – New Delhi
within the informal economy, addressing challenges
GAIL’s Chairman – Sandeep Kumar Gupta
faced by gig workers, migrant workers, domestic
and MD
workers, street vendors, etc.
IndoSpace signs ‘2,000 cr MoU with Tamil Nadu govt shaping the AI strategy for the agriculture sector,
• IndoSpace has signed an MoU worth ‘2,000 crore at focusing on entrepreneurship, small business
the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet 2024. expansion, innovation and skill development.
• This investment is expected to create around 15,000 • The Ministry of Electronics & IT in India advocates
jobs and contribute to the state’s economic growth. for the network-centric approach of the India Digital
• IndoSpace currently has 14 Grade A industrial and Ecosystem Architecture (InDEA) 2.0. This framework
logistics parks in Tamil Nadu, with a total investment facilitates integrated services across organisations and
of around ‘4,000 crore. supports digital transformation.
• InDEA 2.0 is a comprehensive framework designed
A Tripartite MoU signed between the National Farmers’
to digitise various sectors with a special focus on
Welfare Programme Implementation Society, IndiaAI
agriculture.
and the Wadhwani Foundation
• It empowers the government and private enterprises
• A Tripartite MoU was signed between the National
to implement large-scale IT architectures for improved
Farmers’ Welfare Programme Implementation Society,
efficiency and service delivery.
IndiaAI under Digital India Corporation and the
Wadhwani Foundation.
Key Points
• This collaboration aims to revolutionise India’s
Union Minister of Electronics – Ashwini Vaishnaw
agriculture sector through AI-driven digital agriculture.
and Information Technology
• Wadhwani Foundation will play a crucial role in
DEFENCE NEWS
Republic Day 2024: All-women tri-service contingent, • Operation Sarvashakti involves high-level coordi-
armed forces marched nation and a multi-agency approach with troop
• The 2024 Republic Day Parade included two all- induction and intelligence strengthening as key
women contingents from the defence forces, marking measures.
a milestone for gender equality and empowerment in
Key Points
the military.
Chief of Army Staff – General Manoj Pande
• These contingents included members from the Indian
Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing the integration Chief of Defence Staff – General Anil Chauhan
and bravery of the armed forces. Union Defence Minister – Rajnath Singh
• Captain Sandhya, a 26-year-old officer led the all-
women tri-services contingent consisting of 148 Indian Army special forces contingent reaches Egypt for
members, expressing her pride in this role. joint exercise ‘Cyclone’
• The Indian Army contingent comprising 25 personnel
Indian Army launches ‘Operation Sarvashakti’ to thwart
reached Egypt to take part in the second edition of
Pak’s attempts to revive terrorism in Kashmir
India–Egypt joint special forces exercise CYCLONE.
• The Indian Army has launched Operation Sarvashakti The exercise will be conducted at Anshas, Egypt.
in response to increasing terrorist activities in Jammu • The exercise aims to acquaint both sides with each
and Kashmir. other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of
• This operation aims to eliminate Pakistani proxy Special Operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under
terrorist groups operating in the sensitive Rajouri Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
Poonch sector of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges. • The exercise CYCLONE is designed to develop bilateral
• It draws inspiration from Operation Sarpvinash, which military cooperation and strengthen bond between
was successful in eliminating terrorists from the same two armies through the conduct of discussions and
areas in 2003. rehearsal of tactical military drills.
January 2024 15
India and Saudi Arabia’s joint military exercise ‘Sada • VLF communication is crucial for the Navy to maintain
Tanseeq’ commences in Rajasthan effective communication with ships and submarines,
• The inaugural edition of the India–Saudi Arabia joint emphasizing the strategic role of the new transmission
military exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ commenced at station.
Mahajan, Rajasthan. • The INS Kattabomman Radar Station in Tirunelveli,
• The Saudi Arabian contingent was represented by the Tamil Nadu, served as the pioneering VLF
Royal Saudi Land Forces. The Indian Army contingent communication transmission station and has been
was represented by a Battalion from the Brigade of the operational since 1990.
Guards (Mechanised Infantry).
Key Points
• The exercise aims to train troops of both sides for joint
Chief of the Naval Staff – Admiral R. Hari Kumar
operations in semi desert terrain under Chapter VII of
the United Nations Charter.
India–Kyrgyzstan joint special forces exercise
• It will enable both sides to share their best practices in
KHANJAR commenced in Himachal Pradesh
the tactics, techniques and procedures of conducting
operations in the sub-conventional domain. • The 11th edition of India–Kyrgyzstan joint special
forces exercise KHANJAR commenced at the Special
India, France, and UAE conduct joint mega air exercise Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.
‘Desert Knight’ over the Arabian Sea • The exercise is to exchange experiences and best
• India, France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) practices in counter terrorism and special forces
carried out a mega air exercise over the Arabian Sea operations in built-up area and mountainous terrain
against the backdrop of rising global concerns over under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
Houthi militants targeting several commercial vessels • The exercise will emphasise developing special forces
in the strategic waterways in the region. skills and advanced techniques of insertion and
• The exercise featured several frontline aerial assets and extraction.
combat jets of the air forces of the three countries.
Defence Minister inaugurates 35 Border Road projects
Key Points worth ‘670 crores
Chief of Air Staff – Vivek Ram Chaudhari • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated 35
infrastructure projects constructed by the Border
India–UAE joint military exercise commences in Roads Organisation (BRO), valued at ‘670 crores.
Rajasthan • Out of the 35 projects inaugurated, 29 are bridges,
• The first edition of India – UAE joint military exercise and six are roads. 11 of these projects are being
‘DESERT CYCLONE’ was conducted in Mahajan, constructed in Jammu & Kashmir, nine in Ladakh,
Rajasthan. eight in Arunachal Pradesh, three in Uttarakhand,
• The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability in sub- two in Sikkim, one in Mizoram and one in Himachal
conventional operations including Fighting in the Pradesh.
Built-Up Area (FIBUA) in desert/semi-desert terrain • One of the key projects, the Dhak Bridge, holds strategic
under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on importance, providing increased connectivity to the
Peace Keeping Operations. borders and promoting socio-economic development
• The exercise will enhance cooperation and in the region.
interoperability between both sides during Peace • The inauguration was organised at Dhak Bridge, a
Keeping Operations. 93-metre-long Class 70R bridge over Dhak Nalla. The
remaining 34 were inaugurated virtually.
India’s second Very Low Frequency (VLF) communication
station to come up in Vikarabad, Telangana ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’: First India–Thailand naval exercise
• The Indian Navy has chosen Telangana as a key base • The maiden bilateral maritime exercise between the
for the second VLF communication transmission Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy has been named
station in the country. It will be established by 2027. ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’.
• It symbolises the significance of two of the oldest cities one’ or ‘undefeatable’. During the maiden edition
Ayodhya in India and Ayutthaya in Thailand. of the exercise, participating units from both navies
• Both these cities have rich cultural ties and shared conducted surface and anti-air exercises including
historical narratives dating back to several centuries. weapon firing, seamanship evolutions and tactical
• ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’, which translates to ‘the invincible manoeuvres.
PEOPLE IN NEWS/APPOINTMENTS
Name Designation
Nitish Kumar Chief Minister of Bihar
Ashwani Gupta CEO of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone
Arvind Panagariya Chairman of the Sixteenth Finance Commission
Ravindra Kumar Tyagi CMD of Power Grid Corporation
Geetika Mehta Managing Director of Nivea India
Karan Adani CEO of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd.
Shashi Singh President of All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA)
Nina Singh First Woman Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
Vivek Srivastava Director General of Fire Service, Civil Defence & Home Guards in the Ministry of Home
Affairs
Gwanggu Lee MD & CEO of Kia India
Puneet Chhatwal Chairman of Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH)
Nadia Calvino President of the European Investment Bank
Rashmi Shukla Maharashtra’s First Woman Director General of Police
Sanjiv Aggarwal CEO and MD of National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL)
Vikas Sheel Executive Director, Asian Development Bank
Raghuram Iyer CEO of Indian Olympic Association
Indra Mani Pandey Secretary General (SG) of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and
Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)
Tshering Tobgay Bhutan’s Prime Minister
AN Pramod Director General Naval Operations
Hrithik Roshan Brand Ambassador of RuPay Prime Volleyball League
Jagrut Kotecha CEO of PepsiCo India
Daljit Singh Chaudhary Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal
Upal Kundu Chief of Staff at the Southern Naval Command (SNC)
Samir Kumar Sinha Director General DG (Acquisition) In Defence Ministry
Gabriel Attal France’s Prime Minister
January 2024 17
BOOKS AND AUTHORS
Books Authors
Sanskriti ke Ayaam Manorama Mishra
Gandhi: A Life in Three Campaigns M.J. Akbar and K. Natwar Singh
An Uncommon Love: The Early Life of Sudha and Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Narayana Murthy
Ek Samandar, Mere Andar Sanjeev Joshi
OBITUARIES (NATIONAL)
Name Occupation
Ved Prakash Professor
Ustad Rashid Khan Musician
Munawwar Rana Urdu Poet
Prabha Atre Classical Singer
Vijayakanth Tamil Superstar and Politician
Dr Nitya Anand (Made the first oral contraceptive pill ‘Saheli’ in India) Scientist
R. Champakalakshmi Historian
OBITUARIES (INTERNATIONAL)
Name Occupation
Christian Oliver Actor
Norman Jewison Director
KJ Joy Director
Franz Beckenbauer Footballer
Glynis Johns Actor
DAYS AND THEMES
Date Day Theme

January 1 Global Family Day Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families
January 3 International Mind Body Wellness Day Holistic Wellness: Mind, Body, and Soul
January 4 World Braille Day Empowering Through Inclusion and Diversity
January 5 National Birds Day Right to Fight
January 6 World Day of War Orphans Orphan Lives Matter and Standing Up for War-
Affected Children
January 8 Earth’s Rotations Day Honoring the Discovery of Our Planet’s Movement
January 9 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
January 10–18 Startup India Innovation Week
Date Day Theme

January 10 World Hindi Day Hindi–Bridging Traditional Knowledge and
Artificial Intelligence
January 11 National Human Trafficking Awareness Day
January 12 National Youth Day Viksit Yuva-Viksit Bharat
January 13 National Road Safety Week
January 15 Indian Army Day In Service of the Nation
January 16 National Startup Day In Service of the Nation
January 19 Kokborok Day
January 23 Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti
January 24 National Girl Child Day
January 25 National Voters Day Nothing Like Voting, I Vote For Sure
January 25 National Tourism Day Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories
January 26 Republic Day Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and Bharat –
Loktantra ki Matruka (India – Mother of Democracy)
January 26 International Customs Day
Customs Engaging Traditional and New
Partners with Purpose
January 27 National Geographic Day
January 30 World Leprosy Day Act Now, End Leprosy
January 30 Martyrs Day
REPORTS, RANKINGS AND INDEX
Uttar Pradesh tops in the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice • The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is the National
System (ICJS) Coordinator for this exercise that was carried out
• Uttar Pradesh has achieved the highest entry rate on with the support of all snow leopard range states and
the ICJS platform for three years in a row. two conservation partners, the Nature Conservation
Foundation, Mysuru and WWF-India.
• ICJS is a revolutionary platform initiated by the
• The snow leopard occupancy was recorded in 93,392
Supreme Court’s e-committee and executed by the
km2, with an estimated presence in 100,841 km2.
Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Based on data analysis, the estimated population
• It enables the exchange of data related to crimes and
in different states are as follows: Ladakh (477),
criminals between courts, police, jails and forensic
Uttarakhand (124), Himachal Pradesh (51), Arunachal
science laboratories through a single-window system.
Pradesh (36), Sikkim (21) and Jammu and Kashmir (9).
Shri Bhupender Yadav releases the status report of snow Ministry of Education releases All India Survey on
leopards in India Higher Education (AISHE) 2021–2022
• Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate • The Ministry of Education, Government of India
Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav released the report released the All India Survey on Higher Education
on the status of snow leopards in India during the (AISHE) 2021–2022.
National Board for Wildlife meeting. • It has been conducting AISHE since 2011, covering all
• The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in the country
India (SPAI) Programme is the first-ever scientific registered with AISHE collecting detailed information
exercise that reports snow leopard population of on different parameters such as student enrollment,
718 individuals in India. teachers, infrastructural information, etc.
January 2024 19
• The total enrolment in higher education has increased institutions registered is 1,168, colleges 45,473 and
to nearly 4.33 crore in 2021–22 from 4.14 crore in 2020– standalone institutions 12,002.
21. There has been an increase of around 91 lakhs in
LIC overtakes SBI to become the most valuable PSU
the enrolment from 3.42 crore (26.5%) in 2014–15.
• The female enrolment has increased to 2.07 crore in • LIC has surpassed SBI in market capitalisation, with its
2021–22 from 2.01 crore in 2020–21. There has been an share price increasing and reaching a 52-week high.
increase of around 50 lakhs in the female enrolment • The share price of the company touched `900 for the
from 1.57 crore (32%) in 2014–15. first time. It is the level which has not been witnessed
• Gender Parity Index (GPI), the ratio of female GER to by the public insurer since its listing in May 2022.
male GER is 1.01 in 2021–22. Gujarat, Kerala, Karnataka lead in startup ecosystem
• As per response in AISHE 2021–22, about 78.9% of development: DPIIT
the total students are enrolled in undergraduate level • According to the Department for Promotion of Industry
courses and 12.1% are enrolled in postgraduate level and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Gujarat, Kerala, Karnataka,
courses. and Tamil Nadu emerged as the top-performing states
• Among disciplines at undergraduate level in AISHE in the 2022 Startup Ranking.
2021–22, enrolment is highest in Arts (34.2%), followed • The rankings were released by Union Commerce
by Science (14.8%), Commerce (13.3%) and Engineering Minister Piyush Goyal and conducted by the
& Technology (11.8%). Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
• Government Universities constituting 58.6% of total Trade. These provide a comprehensive overview of the
universities, contribute 73.7% of total enrolment, private startup ecosystem across India.
universities account for 26.3% of total enrolment. • A total of 33 states and Union territories (UTs)
• The total number of students enrolled in STEM in UG, participated in the exercise, which ranked them under
PG, M.Phil. and Ph.D. levels in 2021–22 is 98.5 lakhs five categories – best performers, top performers,
compared to 94.7 lakh in 2020–21. leaders, aspiring leaders and emerging startup
• The total number of universities/university level ecosystems.
EVENTS
2024 Vibrant Gujarat Summit I-STEM hosts national event ‘Samavesha’ to connect
• The tenth Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) researchers, industry and start-ups with lab facilities
was held from January 10 to 12, 2024, at the Mahatma • I-STEM (Indian Science, Technology, and Engineering
Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in facilities Map), an initiative from the Office of Principal
Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Scientific Advisor, Government of India, organised
• It was organised by the Government of Gujarat in ‘Samavesha’, a national event to revolutionise research
partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry collaboration in India.
(CII) and iNDEXTb under the theme ‘Gateway to the
• The event was held at the Indian Institute of Science
Future’
(IISc), Bangalore, to connect Researchers, Industry,
• The focus was on renewable energy, electric mobility,
and Start-ups with Lab facilities. I-STEM provides a
sustainable manufacturing, space technology
platform to provide Research infrastructure and Labs
manufacturing, green hydrogen and Industry 4.0.
that can be availed by users across India.
• Narendra Modi along with the international leaders
namely Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of • The project targets connecting researchers with
the United Arab Emirates, Filipe Nyusi, President of scientific institutes through an online portal. This
Mozambique, Republic Petr Fiala, Prime Minister of saves the researchers, industry and start-ups the
the Czech Republic and José Ramos-Horta, President prohibitive capital expenditure of purchasing advanced
of East Timor participated in the summit. equipment.
Union Minister Anurag Thakur attends youth dialogue National Youth Festival at Nashik, Maharashtra on
programme on the theme ‘My Bharat Mera Yuva Bharat’ January 12, and addressed the youth of the nation.
• Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag • It was the occasion of the 161st anniversary of Swami
Thakur attended a youth dialogue programme on the Vivekanand.
theme ‘My Bharat Mera Yuva Bharat’ organised by
• January 12 is celebrated as National Youth Day in
Nehru Yuva Kendra at Malala Auditorium in Diu.
India.
• He highlighted government initiatives like Khelo India,
Fit India and Drug-Free India, encouraging youth to Annual Orange festival at Rusoma village in Kohima
prioritise sports and fitness while staying away from District, Nagaland
drugs.
• The fourth edition of the Rsoma Orange Festival took
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the 27th place in the picturesque village of Rsoma, Nagaland.
National Youth Festival in Nashik • The festival showcased organic produce, community
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 27th spirit and rural entrepreneurship.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
Prof B.R. Kamboj honoured with the M.S. Swaminathan Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Award • Surat and Indore won the All India Clean City Rank
• Prof. B.R. Kamboj, the Vice Chancellor of Chaudhary 1. Indore had conquered the top spot alone for six
Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, has consecutive years.
been bestowed with the prestigious M.S. Swaminathan • In the category of cities with a population of less than
Award. 1 lakh, Sasvad, Patan and Lonavala secured the top
• This recognition comes in appreciation of his significant three spots.
contributions as a scientist and extension specialist in • Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh won
the field of agronomy. the top three awards for Best Performing state.
Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 conferred • Mhow Cantonment Board in Madhya Pradesh was
• The President of India, Droupadi Murmu conferred adjudged the Cleanest Cantonment Board.
Swachh Survekshan awards 2023 at Bharat Mandapam, • Varanasi and Prayagraj won the top two awards
New Delhi hosted by the Ministry of Housing and amongst the Cleanest Ganga Towns.
Filmfare Awards 2024 winners
Category Winner
Best Film 12th Fail
Best Film (Critics) Joram (Devashish Makhija)
Best Actor in a Leading Role (Male) Ranbir Kapoor (Animal)
Best Actor (Critics) Vikrant Massey (12th Fail)
Best Actress in a Leading Role (Female) Alia Bhatt (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani)
Best Actress (Critics) Rani Mukerji (Mrs Chatterjee vs. Norway), Shefali Shah (Three of Us)
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male) Vicky Kaushal (Dunki)
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) Shabana Azmi (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani)
Best Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail)
Lifetime Achievement Award David Dhawan
January 2024 21
U.P. govt confers Gaurav Samman on Dr Ritu Karidhal • The Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar is an annual literary
Srivastava and Naveen Tiwari award that recognises writers in multiple Indian
• The Uttar Pradesh government confered the ‘Uttar languages, with the previous year’s recipient being
Pradesh Gaurav Samman’ on eminent ISRO scientist Imayam. Mukhopadhyay’s work has contributed
Dr Ritu Karidhal Srivastava and Naveen Tiwari. greatly to Indian literature and received acclaim from
the literary community.
• Dr Ritu played a crucial role in the Chandrayaan
Mission as the mission director of mission moon. Padma awards announced
• Naveen Tiwari is a noted entrepreneur from Kanpur • Padma awards are announced on the occasion of
and regularly featured on covers of magazines like Republic Day every year and conferred by the President
Forbes and Fortune. of India at Rashtrapatri Bhawan around March/April
Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur to be every year.
awarded Bharat Ratna posthumously • These are one of the highest civilian Awards and are
given in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan,
• The Government of India recently announced that the
Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri for different
late Karpoori Thakur, former Chief Minister of Bihar,
disciplines/ fields such as art, social work, public affairs,
will be posthumously honoured with the Bharat Ratna,
science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine,
India’s highest civilian award.
literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.
• Thakur served as Bihar’s Chief Minister twice and
• ‘Padma Vibhushan’ is awarded for exceptional and
implemented progressive policies during his tenure,
distinguished service.
including land reforms and initiatives for the upliftment
of marginalised groups. His legacy is characterised by • ‘Padma Bhushan’ is awarded for distinguished service
his dedication to social equality and justice, which has of high order.
had a lasting impact on Bihar’s socio-political fabric. • ‘Padma Shri’ is awarded for distinguished service in
any field.
Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay receives 2023 Kuvempu
• For the year 2024, the President has approved the
Award
conferment of 132 Padma Awards including 2 duo
• Renowned Bengali writer Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay cases (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one). The
was awarded the 2023 Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar, list comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan
a national award celebrating writers who have made and 110 Padma Shri Awards. 30 of the awardees are
significant contributions to any Indian language. women and the list also includes 8 persons from
• Mukhopadhyay, a prolific author with over 90 books the category of Foreigners / NRI / PIO / OCI and 9
in various genres, including travelogues and children’s Posthumous awardees.
fiction, received a cash prize of ‘5 lakh, a silver medal,
and a citation.
Padma Vibhushan
S.No. Name Field State/Region/Country
1 Ms. Vyjayantimala Bali Art Tamil Nadu
2 Shri Konidela Chiranjeevi Art Andhra Pradesh
3 Shri M Venkaiah Naidu Public Affairs Andhra Pradesh
4 Shri Bindeshwar Pathak (Posthumous) Social Work Bihar
5 Ms. Padma Subrahmanyam Art Tamil Nadu
Padma Bhushan
1 Ms. M Fathima Beevi (Posthumous) Public Affairs Kerala
2 Shri Hormusji N Cama Literature & Education – Journalism Maharashtra

3 Shri Mithun Chakraborty Art West Bengal
4 Shri Sitaram Jindal Trade & Industry Karnataka
5 Shri Young Liu Trade & Industry Taiwan
6 Shri Ashwin Balachand Mehta Medicine Maharashtra
7 Shri Satyabrata Mookherjee (Posthumous) Public Affairs West Bengal
8 Shri Ram Naik Public Affairs Maharashtra
9 Shri Tejas Madhusudan Patel Medicine Gujarat
10 Shri Olanchery Rajagopal Public Affairs Kerala
11 Shri Dattatray Ambadas Mayaloo alias Rajdutt Art Maharashtra
12 Shri Togdan Rinpoche (Posthumous) Others – Spiritualism Ladakh
13 Shri Pyarelal Sharma Art Maharashtra
14 Shri Chandreshwar Prasad Thakur Medicine Bihar
15 Ms. Usha Uthup Art West Bengal
16 Shri Vijaykanth (Posthumous) Art Tamil Nadu
17 Shri Kundan Vyas Literature & Education – Journalism Maharashtra
Padma Shri

1 Shri Khalil Ahamad Art Uttar Pradesh
2 Shri Badrappan M Art Tamil Nadu
3 Shri Kaluram Bamaniya Art Madhya Pradesh
4 Ms. Rezwana Choudhury Bannya Art Bangladesh
5 Ms. Naseem Bano Art Uttar Pradesh
6 Shri Ramlal Bareth Art Chhattisgarh
7 Ms. Gita Roy Barman Art West Bengal
8 Ms. Parbati Baruah Social Work Assam
9 Shri Sarbeswar Basumatary Others – Agriculture Assam
10 Shri Som Datt Battu Art Himachal Pradesh
11 Ms. Takdira Begum Art West Bengal
12 Shri Sathyanarayana Beleri Others – Agriculture Kerala
13 Shri Drona Bhuyan Art Assam
14 Shri Ashok Kumar Biswas Art Bihar
15 Shri Rohan Machanda Bopanna Sports Karnataka
16 Ms. Smriti Rekha Chakma Art Tripura
17 Shri Narayan Chakraborty Science & Engineering West Bengal
18 Shri A Velu Ananda Chari Art Telangana
19 Shri Ram Chet Chaudhary Science & Engineering Uttar Pradesh
20 Ms. K Chellammal Others – Agriculture Andaman & Nicobar Islands
21 Ms. Joshna Chinappa Sports Tamil Nadu
22 Ms. Charlotte Chopin Others – Yoga France
January 2024 23

23 Shri Raghuveer Choudhary Literature & Education Gujarat
24 Shri Joe D Cruz Literature & Education Tamil Nadu
25 Shri Ghulam Nabi Dar Art Jammu & Kashmir
26 Shri Chitta Ranjan Debbarma Others – Spiritualism Tripura
27 Shri Uday Vishwanath Deshpande Sports Maharashtra
28 Ms. Prema Dhanraj Medicine Karnataka
29 Shri Radha Krishan Dhiman Medicine Uttar Pradesh
30 Shri Manohar Krishana Dole Medicine Maharashtra
31 Shri Pierre Sylvain Filliozat Literature & Education France
32 Shri Mahabir Singh Guddu Art Haryana
33 Ms. Anupama Hoskere Art Karnataka
34 Shri Yazdi Maneksha Italia Medicine Gujarat
35 Shri Rajaram Jain Literature & Education Uttar Pradesh
36 Shri Jankilal Art Rajasthan
37 Shri Ratan Kahar Art West Bengal
38 Shri Yashwant Singh Kathoch Literature & Education Uttarakhand
39 Shri Zahir I Kazi Literature & Education Maharashtra
40 Shri Gaurav Khanna Sports Uttar Pradesh
41 Shri Surendra Kishore Literature & Education – Bihar
Journalism
42 Shri Dasari Kondappa Art Telangana
43 Shri Sridhar Makam Krishnamurthy Literature & Education Karnataka
44 Ms. Yanung Jamoh Lego Others – Agriculture Arunachal Pradesh
45 Shri Jordan Lepcha Art Sikkim
46 Shri Satendra Singh Lohia Sports Madhya Pradesh
47 Shri Binod Maharana Art Odisha
48 Ms. Purnima Mahato Sports Jharkhand
49 Ms. Uma Maheshwari D Art Andhra Pradesh
50 Shri Dukhu Majhi Social Work West Bengal
51 Shri Ram Kumar Mallick Art Bihar
52 Shri Hemchand Manjhi Medicine Chhattisgarh
53 Shri Chandrashekhar Mahadeorao Medicine Maharashtra
Meshram
54 Shri Surendra Mohan Mishra Art Uttar Pradesh
(Posthumous)
55 Shri Ali Mohammed & Shri Ghani Art Rajasthan
Mohammed* (Duo)
56 Ms. Kalpana Morparia Trade & Industry Maharashtra
57 Ms. Chami Murmu Social Work Jharkhand
58 Shri Sasindran Muthuvel Public Affairs Papua New Guinea
59 Ms. G Nachiyar Medicine Tamil Nadu
60 Ms. Kiran Nadar Art Delhi

61 Shri Pakaravur Chithran Namboodiripad Literature & Education Kerala
(Posthumous)
62 Shri Narayanan E P Art Kerala
63 Shri Shailesh Nayak Science & Engineering Delhi
64 Shri Harish Nayak (Posthumous) Literature & Education Gujarat
65 Shri Fred Negrit Literature & Education France
66 Shri Hari Om Science & Engineering Haryana
67 Shri Bhagabat Padhan Art Odisha
68 Shri Sanatan Rudra Pal Art West Bengal
69 Shri Shankar Baba Pundlikrao Papalkar Social Work Maharashtra
70 Shri Radhe Shyam Pareek Medicine Uttar Pradesh
71 Shri Dayal Mavjibhai Parmar Medicine Gujarat
72 Shri Binod Kumar Pasayat Art Odisha
73 Ms. Silbi Passah Art Meghalaya
74 Ms. Shanti Devi Paswan & Shri Shivan Art Bihar
Paswan* (Duo)
75 Shri Sanjay Anant Patil Others – Agriculture Goa
76 Shri Muni Narayana Prasad Literature & Education Kerala
77 Shri K S Rajanna Social Work Karnataka
78 Shri Chandrashekar Channapatna Medicine Karnataka
Rajannachar
79 Shri Bhagwatilal Rajpurohit Literature & Education Madhya Pradesh
80 Shri Romalo Ram Art Jammu & Kashmir
81 Shri Navjivan Rastogi Literature & Education Uttar Pradesh
82 Ms. Nirmal Rishi Art Punjab
83 Shri Pran Sabharwal Art Punjab
84 Shri Gaddam Sammaiah Art Telangana
85 Shri Sangthankima Social Work Mizoram
86 Shri Machihan Sasa Art Manipur
87 Shri Omprakash Sharma Art Madhya Pradesh
88 Shri Eklabya Sharma Science & Engineering West Bengal
89 Shri Ram Chander Sihag Science & Engineering Haryana
90 Shri Harbinder Singh Sports Delhi
91 Shri Gurvinder Singh Social Work Haryana
92 Shri Godawari Singh Art Uttar Pradesh
93 Shri Ravi Prakash Singh Science & Engineering Mexico
94 Shri Seshampatti T Sivalingam Art Tamil Nadu
95 Shri Somanna Social Work Karnataka
96 Shri Kethavath Somlal Literature & Education Telangana
97 Ms. Shashi Soni Trade & Industry Karnataka
98 Ms. Urmila Srivastava Art Uttar Pradesh
January 2024 25

99 Shri Nepal Chandra Sutradhar Art West Bengal
(Posthumous)
100 Shri Gopinath Swain Art Odisha
101 Shri Laxman Bhatt Tailang Art Rajasthan
102 Ms. Maya Tandon Social Work Rajasthan
103 Ms. Aswathi Thirunal Gouri Lakshmi Bayi Literature & Education Kerala
Thampuratty
104 Shri Jagdish Labhshanker Trivedi Art Gujarat
105 Ms. Sano Vamuzo Social Work Nagaland
106 Shri Balakrishnan Sadanam Puthiya Veetil Art Kerala
107 Shri Kurella Vittalacharya Literature & Education Telangana
108 Shri Kiran Vyas Others – Yoga France
109 Shri Jageshwar Yadav Social Work Chhattisgarh
110 Shri Babu Ram Yadav Art Uttar Pradesh
SPORTS NEWS
PM inaugurates the opening ceremony of the Khelo • Praggnanandhaa’s FIDE live rating is now 2748.3,
India Youth Games 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu slightly higher than Anand’s 2748.
• Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi inaugurated India Open: Tai Tzu Ying beats Olympic champ to win
the opening ceremony of the Khelo India Youth Games women’s singles title
2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. These will be played in
• Tai Tzu Ying won the India Open 2024 women’s singles
four cities in Tamil Nadu.
title, defeating Chen Yu Fei in straight sets.
• This year archery, athletics, badminton, squash and
• She plans to retire after the 2024 season.
Silambam were included in the Khelo India Games for
the first time. President of India inaugurates the fifth edition of the
• He laid the foundation stone of projects related to the Meghalaya Games
Broadcasting sector worth about ‘250 crores. • The President of India, Droupadi Murmu inaugurated
• The games will witness the participation of athletes the fifth edition of the Meghalaya Games in Tura,
from all 36 states and union territories of India. Meghalaya.
RuPay Prime Volleyball League onboards Hrithik Roshan • It had 3,000 athletes competing in 23 disciplines
as brand ambassador for Season 3 across 16 venues and included traditional indigenous
games.
• RuPay Prime Volleyball powered by A23 has appointed
Hrithik Roshan as its brand ambassador. At the age of 43, Rohan Bopanna becomes the oldest
• Hrithik enjoys the physical nature of volleyball and World No. 1 in men’s doubles
described the partnership as a natural fit for him. • India’s Rohan Bopanna created history by becoming
the world No. 1 in the men’s tennis doubles rankings.
R. Praggnanandhaa surpasses Viswanathan Anand to
become India’s leading chess player • He achieved this remarkable feat after winning in
the quarter-finals of the 2024 Australian Open with
• India’s chess wizard Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa
Matthew Ebden of Australia.
defeated the World Chess Champion Ding Liren in the
Tata Steel Masters in Wijk aan Zee, in the Netherlands. Virat Kohli wins Pubity Male Athlete of 2023 Award
• He became the second Indian after Vishwanathan • Virat Kohli emerged as the winner of the Pubity Male
Anand to defeat a reigning champion. Athlete of The Year Award by defeating Lionel Messi
• He was the first batter to score 50 ODI centuries and a • Lakshadweep made history by winning gold in Beach
world record for most runs (765) in a single edition of Soccer, diversifying the medal tally. 1,404 athletes from
the World Cup. 28 states and Union Territories participated in the
inaugural games, showcasing widespread engagement
David Warner retires from ODI cricket before test
in beach sports.
farewell
• David Warner announced his retirement from ODI Australian cricketer, Shaun Marsh retires from
cricket while leaving the door open for a Champions professional cricket
Trophy return in 2025. • Renowned Australian cricketer Shaun Marsh has
• He announced his decision before playing his farewell retired from all forms of the sport. He played a total
test match against Pakistan to be played at the iconic of 38 tests, 73 ODIs, and 15 T20Is.
Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). • In the IPL, Marsh played for Kings XI Punjab, scoring
2,477 runs in 71 games, with a remarkable performance
ICC amends stumping review, concussion substitute
in his debut season.
rules
• The International Cricket Council (ICC) has restricted Rohit Sharma becomes the first-ever cricketer to feature
the Decision Review System (DRS) for stumping in 150 T20I matches
incidents, effective from December 12, 2023. • Rohit Sharma made history by becoming the first
• The umpires will rely only on side-on-camera images men’s player to feature in 150 T20I matches.
for stumping reviews. • This achievement came during the second T20I against
• The substitute players cannot bowl if the replaced Afghanistan.
player was suspended for bowling during the
Snow leopard ‘Sheen-e She’ (Shan) named as the mascot
concussion incident.
of Khelo India Winter Games 2024
• The four-minute time limit for on-field injury
• In keeping with the tradition and biodiversity of the
assessment and treatment.
region, the mascot of the Khelo India Winter Games
• BCCI maintains ‘Dead Ball’ and two bouncers per over 2024 is a snow leopard. It has been named ‘Sheen-e
rules for the upcoming Ranji Trophy. She’ or Shan in Ladakh region.
• The logo of the games, prominent with the Indian
Key Points
tricolor, reflects the uniqueness of the picturesque land
Chairman – Greg Barclay and the many sports that’s on the cards. The Games
Headquarters – Dubai, UAE logo is complete with a Dharmachakra (turning wheel
of Dharma) on a hilltop in Chanspa in Leh, the venue
of the games.
Divyakriti Singh becomes the first Indian woman Arjuna
Awardee for equestrian sports • The first part of the Winter Games, a mouth-watering
event for winter sports athletes, will be held in Union
• Divyakriti Singh created history in Indian sports by
Territory of Ladakh for the first time from February
receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award by being the
2–6.
first woman from Rajasthan to achieve this honour.
• The second portion is scheduled in Gulmarg, Jammu
• She was presented by the President of India at a
& Kashmir from February 21–25.
ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Madhya Pradesh wins inaugural Diu Beach Games 2024 Key Points
• Madhya Pradesh emerged as the overall champion Union Minister of Youth – Anurag Thakur
at the Diu Beach Games 2024, winning 18 medals, Affairs and Sports
including 7 golds.
CURRENT AFFAIRS
February 2024
CONTENTS
 National News 3
 Defence News 13
 Events 19
 Sports News 21
February 2024 3
NATIONAL NEWS
PM Modi inaugurates BAPS Mandir, the first Hindu Key Points

temple in Abu Dhabi CBFC’s headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the majestic Chairman – Prasoon Joshi
Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan
Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Banaras Hindu University (BHU) creates North India’s
Dhabi, UAE.
first human DNA bank under the Make in India initiative
• Upon his arrival at the temple premises, PM Modi was
• North India’s first human DNA bank was launched
welcomed by BAPS’ Ishwarcharandas Swami.
at the Gnyaneshwar Lab in the Zoology Department,
• He offered prayers at the temple and performed
BHU.
aarti. The temple was inaugurated on the auspicious
• It is equipped with an automated DNA extractor
occasion of Basant Panchmi.
machine which is developed indigenously under the
• The mandir stands at 108 feet and is situated on 27 acres
‘Make in India’ initiative.
of land gifted by the UAE leadership. The foundation
• The bank aims to advance genetic research in
stone was laid by PM Modi in 2017, reflecting
personalised medicine and wildlife conservation and
collaborative efforts to bring this vision to life.
is inspired by Estonia.
Assam declares Kaji Nemu as the Official State Fruit
India’s first Museum of Epigraphy inaugurated in
• Assam declares Kaji Nemu (citrus fruit) as the state fruit,
Hyderabad
highlighting its cultural and nutritional significance.
• Union culture minister G. Kishan Reddy laid the
• Kaji nemu, a unique lemon variety exclusive to Assam,
foundation stone for India’s digital national museum
is celebrated for its aroma and health benefits.
of Epigraphy at the Salar Jung museum in Hyderabad
• The decision aims to promote local farmers and gain
to preserve ancient writings.
global recognition for the fruit.
• It will have the information about writing, scripts and
• The fruit received a Geographical Indication tag in
languages using all multimedia installations.
2019 ensuring its quality and origin.
• The government had earlier launched the Bharat
Key Points Shared Repository of Inscriptions (BharatSHRI) project
Assam’s Chief Minister – Himanta Biswa Sarma to digitise ancient inscriptions for wider accessibility
Assam’s Governor – Gulab Chand Kataria and scholarly research.
Assam’s capital – Dispur Uttarakhand becomes the first state to implement a
Uniform Civil Code in India
Anurag Singh Thakur announces setting up of film
certification facilitation office in Chandigarh • Uttarakhand is the first state in India to implement
• Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to standardise personal
Anurag Singh Thakur announced the setting up of a laws regardless of religion.
regional facilitation office of the Central Board of Film • A high-level committee led by retired Supreme Court
Certification (CBFC) in Chandigarh to promote ease of judge Justice Ranjana P Desai drafted the UCC Bill in
doing business for filmmakers of the region. Uttarakhand.
• This move will further strengthen the Punjabi film • Under the UCC, there will be common laws for
industry. marriage, divorce, inheritance of property, etc.
• The objectives of the mission include surface and

Key Points
ocean monitoring, atmospheric condition analysis,
Uttrakhand’s Governor – Gurmit Singh data collection and search and rescue support.
Uttrakhand’s – Pushkar Singh Dhami • It features cutting-edge payloads for accurate weather
Chief Minister forecasts, benefiting sectors like agriculture and disaster
Uttrakhand’s Capital – Bhararisain and management.
Dehradun (Winter)
Key Points
Large deposits of iron ore found in Karauli, Rajasthan Chairman – S Somnath
• The Rajasthan Mines department has started Headquarters – Bengaluru

preparations for the auction for composite license of
iron ore blocks in an area of about 1,888 hectares near Union minister G Kishan Reddy and MP Chief Minister
Hindon in Karauli district after large deposits of iron Mohan Yadav laid the foundation stone for Komuravelli
ore were found there. Railway Station in Siddipet, Telangana
• There are deposits of more than 840 million tonnes of
• Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy and Madhya
iron ore in Khoda, Dadaroli, Todupura and Liloti near
Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav laid the
Hindon in Karauli.
foundation stone for Komuravelli Railway Station in
• In the initial exploration done by the department,
Telangana to improve transportation to Komuravelli
indications of both magnetite and hematite of iron ore
have been found. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple.
• Komuravelli village is home to the famous Komuravelli
Key Points Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple.
Rajasthan’s Chief Minister – Bhajan Lal Sharma • The temple town attracts millions of devotees annually
Rajasthan’s Governor – Kalraj Mishra from four states.
Rajasthan’s Capital – Jaipur Prime Minister Modi unveils 125-foot statue of Bir Lachit
Borphukan in Assam
Tamil Nadu passes resolutions against delimitation, ‘one • PM Modi unveiled a 125-foot statue of Bir Lachit
nation, one poll’ Borphukan in Jorhat, Assam, honouring the state’s rich
• The Tamil Nadu legislative assembly has passed two history.
resolutions opposing the delimitation exercise and • Bir Lachit is a celebrated general who is best known for
the ‘one nation, one election’ policy proposed by the his leadership in the 1671 Battle of Saraighat where he
Indian government. thwarted the Mughal invasion.
• The resolutions argue that the delimitation exercise • The statue symbolises the bravery of the Assamese
should be based on the 1971 census and not the 2026
people and serves as an inspiration for future
census, and that the proposed simultaneous elections
generations.
are impractical and against the constitution.
Key Points
Key Points
Assam’s Chief Minister – Himanta Biswa Sarma
Tamil Nadu’s – M. K. Stalin
Chief Minister Assam’s Governor – Gulab Chand Kataria
Tamil Nadu’s Governor – R. N. Ravi Assam’s capital – Dispur
Tamil Nadu’s capital – Chennai
PM Modi virtually inaugurates Mahabharata theme-
ISRO launches INSAT-3DS weather forecasting satellite based Jyotisar Anubhav Kendra museum in Kurukshetra
• ISRO launched INSAT-3DS, an advanced meteorological • Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated
satellite, to enhance weather forecasting and Jyotisar Anubhav Kendra, a museum inspired by the
environmental monitoring. Mahabharata in Kurukshetra, Haryana.
February 2024 5
• The project aims to enhance cultural and spiritual Govt tweaks rules for speedy electricity connection,
tourism with state-of-the-art galleries and exhibits. rooftop installation
• The centre is located at the revered site where Lord • The government has approved amendments to the
Krishna imparted teachings to Arjuna. Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020.
• It plans to boost the local economy by attracting tourists • The amendments simplified the process of rooftop
and devotees. solar installations and empower consumers living
in multistoried flats to chose connection type and
Uttar Pradesh to establish its ‘first turtle conservation
ensure separate billing for common areas and back-
reserve’
up generators in residential societies, thus enhancing
• The Forest department in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, transparency.
is collaborating with the Turtle Survival Alliance • The revised rule provides for checking meters installed
Foundation India to create a turtle conservation reserve by distribution companies in case of consumer
along the Sarju river. complaints to verify electricity consumption.
• The Sarju river is home to nine turtle species, including • New electricity connections will be as fast as three days
the critically endangered ‘crowned river turtle’. in metropolitan areas, seven days in municipal areas
• The river is a tributary of Ghaghra. and 15 days in rural areas.
Madhya Pradesh schools allow students to go ‘Bag Less’ PM Narendra Modi inaugurates India’s longest cable-
once a week stayed bridge, Sudarshan Setu
• The Madhya Pradesh government has announced • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s
‘bagless school’ once a week, during which students longest cable-stayed bridge, Sudarshan Setu, in
can participate in sports activities, play games, attend Gujarat’s Devbhumi Dwarka district.
cultural activities and many more in the schools. • It is 4.77 km long and is also known as Signature
• The initiative will be introduced by the government Bridge. It was constructed for ` 978 crore and connects
for students of classes 1 to 12 from the upcoming new Okha town in the Devbhumi Dwarka district with Beyt
academic session 2024–25 in the state. Dwarka island in the Gulf of Kutch.
• This step will reduce the stress of the students. This • Beyt Dwarka is an island near Okha port, which is
initiative will apply to all government and private nearly 30 km from Dwarka town, where the famous
schools operated in Madhya Pradesh. Dwarkadhish temple of Lord Krishna is situated.
• The 4.77-km-long sealink has a 2.32 km (2,320 metres)
Key Points
bridge section, including a 900 metres (0.90 km) cable-
Madhya Pradesh’s – Mohan Yadav stayed section, the longest in India. The cable-stayed
Chief Minister structure will allow navigation of fishing boats and
Madhya Pradesh’s – Mangubhai other vessels.
Governor Chhaganbhai Patel • The 2.32-km-long superstructure of the bridge is
Madhya Pradesh’s Capital – Bhopal supported by 32 piers, including two towers rising 18
metres above the sea.
The first Skill India Centre (SIC) inaugurated in • The bridge was constructed as part of National
Sambalpur, Odisha Highway 51 and funded by the Centre.
• Union Minister for Education and Skill Development Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicates five AIIMS at
Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated India’s inaugural Rajkot, Bathinda, Raebareli, Kalyani and Mangalagiri to
Skill India Centre (SIC) in Sambalpur, Odisha, affirming the nation
its role in enhancing the nation’s workforce. • In a landmark development towards strengthening
• The centre aims to empower over 1,200 students with India’s tertiary health care infrastructure and services,
skills for the job market. Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation
• It offers a mix of classroom and work-based learning five All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at
with modern facilities. Rajkot (Gujarat), Bathinda (Punjab), Raebareli (Uttar
Pradesh), Kalyani (West Bengal) and Mangalagiri • It is located in a 3,000-acre sanctuary within the Green
(Andhra Pradesh). Belt of Reliances Jamnagar Refinery Complex. Vantara
• He also inaugurated, laid the foundation stone of, provides a natural habitat for animals to heal and
and dedicated to the nation a total of 202 Health Care thrive.
Infrastructure Projects worth more than ` 11,700 crores
• The programme focuses on state-of-the-art healthcare,
across 23 States and UTs.
dedicated hospitals and research centres to set new
Key Points standards in animal care.
Union Minister of Health – Dr Mansukh • Vantara collaborates with international organisations
and Family Welfare L. Mandaviya like the International Union for Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)
PM Modi inaugurates space infrastructure projects of
and has rescued over 200 elephants and rehabilitated
ISRO
endangered species.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three
major space infrastructure projects of ISRO during his Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates Swaminarayan
visit to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) at Institute of Medical Science and Research in Gujarat
Thumba.
• Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation,
• The projects are – a Trisonic Wind Tunnel at VSSC,
a Semi-Cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test Amit Shah inaugurated the ‘Swaminarayan Institute of
Facility at ISRO’s propulsion complex in Mahendragiri, Medical Science and Research’ of Shri Swaminarayan
Tamil Nadu, and the PSLV Integration Facility at Vishwamangal Gurukul at Kalol in Gandhinagar,
the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR) in Andhra Gujarat.
Pradesh’s Sriharikota. • The institute aims to provide top-tier medical education
• These three projects, which will provide world-class and facilities, with plans to offer postgraduate courses
technical facilities for the space sector, have been
soon.
developed at a cumulative cost of about ` 1,800 crore.
• VSSC, the lead centre of the Indian Space Research Govt declares Muslim Conference J&K (Sumji faction)
Organisation, is responsible for the design and and Muslim Conference J&K (Bhat faction) as unlawful
development of launch vehicle technology. associations
• He also reviewed ISRO’s Gaganyaan human
• The Central Government has declared two factions
spaceflight programme during his visit. He revealed
of the Muslim Conference in Jammu & Kashmir as
the identities of the four pilots training for Gaganyaan
mission at VSSC in Kerala. They are Group Captain unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities
P Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, (Prevention) Act, 1967 to combat terrorism and protect
Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander national security.
S Shukla. The mission aims to send a crew of three into
orbit for three days between 2024 and 2025. U Tirot Sing’s bust unveiled in Dhaka, Bangladesh
• U Tirot Sing Syiem, a revered freedom fighter from
Reliance launches ‘Vantara,’ a national initiative for
the Khasi community, was commemorated for his
animal welfare
indomitable spirit and sacrifice as the Meghalaya
• Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation have
government unveiled his life-size bust at the Indira
launched Vantara (Star of the Forest) to rescue, treat,
and rehabilitate animals. Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
• The initiative, led by Anant Ambani, aims to make a • He played a pivotal role in the fight against colonial
global impact on animal welfare. oppression.
February 2024 7
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
National Commission For Protection of Child Rights • PM Modi laid the foundation stone for ‘CM Rise School’
(NCPCR) launches GHAR (GO Home and Re-Unite) and ‘Tantya Mama Bhil University’ to modernise
portal for child restoration and repatriation education infrastructure and promote higher education
• The GHAR portal was developed to digitally monitor for underprivileged youth.
and track the restoration and repatriation of children as
NITI Aayog launches Greening India’s Wastelands with
per the protocols under the Juvenile Justice (Care and
Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal
Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and Rules thereof.
• Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with
• The Ministry of Women and Child Development
Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal was launched
developed the ‘Track Child Portal’, which enables
by Prof Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog at NITI
tracking of the missing and found children in all States/
Aayog.
UTs including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, North
Eastern States and Jharkhand. • The ‘GROW-Suitability Mapping’ portal allows
• One component of the Track Child Portal is ‘Khoya- universal access to state and district-level data.
Paya’ where any citizen can report any missing or Currently, agroforestry covers 8.65% of India’s total
sighted children. geographical area, totalling about 28.42 million
hectares.
• Track Child Portal, GHAR, portals track missing and
found children, aid in restoration and repatriation, and • The initiative aligns with national commitments,
protect vulnerable minors under the Juvenile Justice aiming to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land
system. by 2030 and create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to
3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan launches EdCIL Vidyanjali
Scholarship Programme PM Modi launches Amrit Bharat Station scheme, lays
foundation for 554 stations
• Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan
launched EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme to • PM Narendra Modi laid the foundation for 554 Amrit
help underprivileged students access quality education Bharat stations, a government initiative to revamp key
in line with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 railway stations across the country, and inaugurated
goals. rail overbridges and underbridges.
• 70 students from Navodaya Vidyalayas will receive a • The initiative aims to improve railway station facilities
total of ` 5 crores in scholarships. by developing rooftop plazas and city centres, with an
• The programme aims to encourage more involvement investment of ` 40,000 crore.
in education from individuals and companies. • In a move to nurture talent and celebrate creativity,
prizes will be distributed to around 50,000 school
PM Modi inaugurates projects worth ` 7,300 crore in
students. These students showcased their skills in
Jhabua, MP
speech, essay and poetry writing contests centered
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid around the theme ‘2047 – Viksit Bharat ki Railway.’
the foundation stone of several development projects
worth ` 7,300 crore in Jhabua (MP) to uplift the tribal SECI unveils India’s largest solar-battery project,
population by improving water supply, education, and pioneering renewable energy innovation in Chhattisgarh
road infrastructure. • The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI),
• Under Aahar Anudan Yojna, PM Modi provided under the aegis of the Ministry of New and Renewable
monthly ` 1,500 to 2 lakh women from backward tribes Energy, has successfully commissioned India’s largest
for nutritious food, ensuring their well-being. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which stores
• Through SVAMITVA Scheme, 1.75 lakh individuals energy using solar energy.
received land rights documents, empowering them • The 40 megawatts (MW) / 120MWh BESS with a solar
and boosting the region’s socio-economic fabric. photovoltaic (PV) plant which has an installed capacity
of 152.325 megawatt hour (MWh) and dispatchable Uttarakhand police adopt self-balancing e-scooters for
capacity of 100 MW AC (155.02 MW peak DC) is located smart patrols
in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. • Uttarakhand police have adopted smart policing with
• The energy would be purchased by the state of the introduction of self-balancing electric scooters.
Chhattisgarh, thus contributing to meeting the peak These were donated by Utkarsh Small Finance Bank.
energy demand of the state using green electrons and • The electric scooters are set to enhance crowd
also towards its renewable purchase obligations. management and promote sustainability in Haridwar.
Four transformative portals to revolutionise the media Maharashtra introduces ‘Chief Minister Vayoshree
landscape in India launched Yojana’ for senior citizens
• The Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri • Maharashtra Government launched the ‘Chief Minister
Anurag Singh Thakur launched four transformatory Vayoshree Yojana’ which is expected to benefit 15 lakh
portals that promise to revolutionise the media senior citizens with disabilities, offering financial
landscape in India. assistance and various other initiatives.
• These four portals aim to boost efficiency and • The senior citizens above 65 years suffering from
transparency in government operations. The portals physical or mental disabilities will receive ` 3,000 after
are: screening.
1. The Press Sewa Portal simplifies newspaper
Delhi announces free bus travel in Delhi for the
registration and related procedures.
transgender community
2. Transparent Empanelment Media Planning and
• Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced
eBilling System streamlines media planning processes.
that his government will provide free travel on DTC
3. The NaViGate Bharat Portal hosts videos on and cluster buses to individuals belonging to the
government development and citizen welfare transgender community.
measures.
• Women in the national capital already enjoy free travel
4. The National Register for LCOs centralises the on these buses. The initiative for women commenced
registration of Local Cable Operators, promising an in October 2019.
organised cable sector. These portals represent a step
towards a more transparent, efficient and business- PM Modi launches ‘Muft Bijli Yojana’ to provide 300
friendly future in India. units of electricity per month
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched PM Surya
Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan
Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to provide free electricity to its
launches SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for
beneficiaries.
Young Aspiring Minds) Plus
• As per the scheme, the central government will
• Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & provide 300 units of free electricity per month to its
Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan launched the beneficiaries by investing worth ` 75,000 crores.
SWAYAM Plus platform. IIT Madras will be operating
• Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats shall be incentivised
the platform.
to promote rooftop solar systems in their jurisdictions.
• The SWAYAM Plus platform will now include courses
supporting industry needs that enhance learners’ Realigned Animal Husbandry Infrastructure
employability. These include programmes developed Development Fund (AHIDF) scheme launched
in collaboration with industry giants like L&T, • Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
Microsoft, CISCO and others. SWAYAM Plus will also & Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala launched the
feature multilingual content, AI-enabled guidance, realigned AHIDF scheme and released the Radio Jingle
credit recognition and pathways to employment. on AHIDF.
• SWAYAM, which is a MOOC (Massive Open Online • The Cabinet approved the realignment of the AHIDF
Course) platform, offers educational modules and was under the Infrastructure Development Fund with an
launched by the Union Ministry of Education in 2017. outlay of ` 29,610 crores. Now the total fund will be of
February 2024 9
` 29,610 crores instead of ` 15,000 crores. The realigned • Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar launched
scheme will be implemented for a further period of the ‘Van Mitra’ scheme and its portal to encourage
three years from 2023 till 2025–26. community participation in tree planting activities in
• In the realigned scheme, Dairy Infrastructure non-forest areas.
Development Fund has been subsumed. Now the • The members of families with an annual income of less
Dairy Cooperatives will avail benefit of interest than ` 1.80 lakh can register to become ‘Van Mitras’.
subvention of 3% under AHIDF instead of 2.5% which Each ‘Van Mitra’ will receive an incentive based on
was received in DIDF. the maintenance of the plant and they can plant a
• The Dairy Cooperative will also get Credit Guarantee maximum of 1,000 saplings.
support under the Credit Guarantee Fund of AHIDF. Uttarakhand CM launches ‘Himalayan Basket’ to
The scheme will help the Dairy Cooperatives to empowering local economy
upgrade their processing infrastructure with an
• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami
updated processing technology. This will benefit a
unveiled the ‘Himalayan Basket’ initiative.
large number of milk producers in the country.
• This initiative was initially conceived by local
Rajasthan Mukhyamantri Vishwakarma Pension Yojana entrepreneurs Sumit and Sneha Thapliyal in 2018 to
2024 launched harness the agricultural riches of Champawat district.
• The Rajasthan government announced a special • The ‘Himalayan Basket’ initiative is designed to boost
scheme for labourers and street vendors, named the local employment by capitalising on the district’s
Mukhyamantri Vishwakarma Pension Yojana. abundant agricultural resources.
• Under this scheme, eligible workers aged 60 or above • The initiative focuses on the procurement of milk,
will receive a monthly pension of ` 2,000. turmeric, and mint from local farmers and export high-
• This pension aims to assist street vendors in meeting demand products such as ‘churpi’ and ghee.
their daily needs without relying on others. ‘Investor Information and Analytics Platform’ launched
• Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Skill
Key Points
Development and Entrepreneurship, and Jal Shakti,
Rajasthan’s Chief Minister – Bhajan Lal Sharma
Rajeev Chandrasekhar launched ‘Investor Information
Rajasthan’s Governor – Kalraj Mishra and Analytics Platform’ developed by IIT Madras.
Rajasthan’s Capital – Jaipur • This platform will act as a one-stop shop for startups to
seamlessly access Venture Capitalists (VCs) and investor
Haryana Chief Minister launches ‘Van Mitra’ scheme to networks, Govt schemes and several other components
boost green cover of the startup landscape for all stakeholders.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
France becomes the first European country to issue • The ‘Olympic Consulate’ is expected to handle
digital Schengen visas applications from 15,000 international athletes, 9,000
• France became the first European country to issue journalists, and delegations from foreign countries
digital Schengen visas to visitors for the upcoming participating in the upcoming sporting events.
Paris Olympics.
• The initiative aims to streamline the visa application
• It began operations of the ‘Olympic Consulate’ system
process, avoiding any mix-up with the surge of files
on January 1, 2024 – dedicated to processing visa
applications for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic currently undergoing processing at French visa centres
Games. worldwide.
• Japan also announced a significant aid package for

Key Points
demining operations and reconstruction in energy and
France’s President – Emmanuel Macron
transportation sectors.
France’s Prime Minister – Gabriel Attal
France’s Capital – Paris Key Points
Japan’s Prime Minister – Fumio Kishida
Google rebrands its Chatbot Bard as Gemini
Japan’s capital – Tokyo
• Google has rebranded its Chatbot as Gemini and
Ukraine’s President – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
introduced a new subscription plan, putting it in direct
competition with OpenAI in the AI race. Ukraine’s capital – Kyiv
• Gemini features the advanced Ultra 1.0 model, excelling
in tasks like coding and logical reasoning. India sends Buddha relics to Thailand
• It integrates with Google products for a seamless
• India has sent several sacred relics of Lord Buddha and
user experience and supports text, speech, and image
interaction. his disciples – Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Maha
• Google plans to expand Gemini to more languages and Moggallana to Thailand, where they were personally
countries to make AI accessible globally. received by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.
• The relics were excavated at Piprahva, considered a
Key Points
part of the ancient Buddhist site of Kapilavastu, while
Headquarters – California, US
the relics of the disciples are from a monastery at
CEO – Sundar Pichai
Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh.
Founders – Larry Page and
• Their exposition in Thai cities was arranged to mark
Sergey Brin
the friendship between the people of India and
NASA discovers potentially habitable ‘super-Earth’ 137 Thailand and the 72nd birth anniversary of King Maha
light-years away Vajiralongkorn.
• In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists at NASA have • This development is being seen as part of New Delhi’s
found a ‘super-Earth,’ a planet that could potentially efforts to counter Beijing’s attempts to use Buddhism
support life.
to project soft power in Southeast Asia.
• This planet, called TOI-715 b is 137 light-years away
from us and is about one and a half times as wide as Key Points
Earth.
Thailand’s Capital – Bangkok
• It revolves around its parent star in the conservative
habitable zone, which could ‘give the planet the right
Peru declares health emergency amidst dengue surge
temperature for liquid water to form on its surface.’
• In comparison to planets orbiting stars like the Sun, red • In Peru, the government has declared a health
dwarfs are smaller and colder, which allows planets emergency due to the rapidly rising cases of dengue
to cram closer while remaining safely inside the star’s fever across the South American country.
habitable zone.
• The move will enable the government to transfer
Japan hosts the Ukraine reconstruction conference to funds more quickly to affected regions and more easily
showcase its support
deploy doctors and nurses.
• Japanese Prime Minister Kishida reaffirmed Japan’s
• Peru has been experiencing high temperatures and
commitment to Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction
ahead of the anniversary of Russia’s invasion. heavy rains since 2023 due to the El Nino weather
• This includes a strategic partnership focusing on pattern, which has warmed the seas off the country’s
inclusivity, humanitarianism, and technology sharing. coast and helped mosquito populations grow.
February 2024 11
Interim Union Budget 2024–25 • The government will encourage Cervical Cancer
• Interim budget is the budget which is presented by Vaccination for girls aged 9–14 years. The causative
a government ahead of general elections. It ensures agent for cervical cancer is Human PapillomaVirus
continuity of government expenditure and essential (HPV).
services until the new government can present a full- • The government will encourage the use of ‘Nano Di-
fledged budget after taking office. ammonium Phosphate (DAP)’ for various crops across
all agro-climatic zones to correct the nitrogen and
• The interim budget 2024–24 was presented by Finance
phosphorus deficiencies in standing crops.
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with a vision of ‘Viksit
Bharat’ by 2047, with all-round, all-pervasive, and • A new department named ‘Matsya Sampada,’ to
all-inclusive development. It was presented with the address the needs of fishermen will be established.
‘mantra’ of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka • There will be a continuation of the 50-year interest-free
Vishwas’ and the whole of nation approach of ‘Sabka loan scheme for capital expenditure.
Prayas.’ • There will be an establishment of a corpus of ` 1 lakh
• An 11.1% increase in the capital expenditure outlay for crore with a 50-year interest-free loan to encourage
2024–2025 was announced while capital expenditure is research and innovation in sunrise domains.
set at ` 11,11,111 crore, constituting 3.4% of the GDP. • The government will form a high-powered committee
to address rapid population growth and demographic
• The real GDP growth is projected at 7.3%, aligning
shifts.
with the RBI’s revised growth projection.
• Forty thousand normal rail bogies will be converted
• The Fiscal deficit is estimated at 5.1% of GDP in 2024
to Vande Bharat standards for enhanced safety,
– 25, aligning to reduce it below 4.5% by 2025–26.
convenience and passenger comfort.
• The Interim Budget maintained the existing rates for
• A corpus of ` 1 lakh crore to be established with 50-year
direct and indirect taxes, including import duties. The
interest free loan to provide long-term financing or
Corporate Taxes will be 22% for existing domestic
refinancing with long tenors and low or nil interest
companies, 15% for certain new manufacturing
rates.
companies. No tax liability for taxpayers with income
• A new scheme to be launched for strengthening deep-
up to ` 7 lakh under the new tax regime. There are
tech technologies for defence purposes and expediting
certain tax benefits for start-ups and investments
‘atmanirbharta.’
extended by one year up to March 31, 2025.
• The number of airports in the country will be doubled
• The total receipts are estimated at ` 30.80 lakh crore,
to 149.
excluding borrowings with the total expenditure
• The three major economic railway corridor programmes
projected at ` 47.66 lakh crore. The tax receipts are
identified under the PM Gati Shakti will be implemented
estimated at ` 26.02 lakh crore.
to improve logistics efficiency and reduce cost. These
• There will be an establishment of coal gasification and are:
liquefaction capacity of 100 million tonnes by 2030.
• Energy, mineral and cement corridors
• A new scheme of biomanufacturing and bio-foundry
• Port connectivity corridors
will be launched to support environment-friendly
• High-traffic density corridors
alternatives.
• The government plans to subsidise the construction of Jammu and Kashmir granted $14 billion from interim
30 million affordable houses in rural areas. budget
• As a part of rooftop solarisation, 1 crore households will • India has allocated a significant $14 billion interim
be enabled to obtain up to 300 units of free electricity budget for Jammu and Kashmir for fiscal year 2024–25,
per month. highlighting its commitment to development.
• The Ayushman Bharat scheme will be expanded to • This amount is much larger than what Pakistan received
include all ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and in IMF bailout, showing contrasting approaches to
helpers. economic growth.
• Pakistan has received a $3 billion bailout with a recent Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Ministry of Electronics
$700 million tranche released after IMF review. & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of
• India’s investment in Jammu and Kashmir focuses on India.
governance, development, revenue and infrastructure. • The ToT agreement with (C-DAC) enables Prama India
• The budget announcement on Kashmir Solidarity Day as a technology partner to manufacture, market and
signifies India’s dedication to the region’s economic support innovative solutions.
progress. • With this significant initiative, Prama India has created
a new benchmark in the Indian Security Industry.
Key Points • This new initiative by Prama India will bolster R&D
Lt. Governor – Manoj Sinha and help to develop innovative thermal technology
Jammu and Kashmir’s – Srinagar (Summer) and applications.
Capital Jammu (Winter) Tata Steel partners with IIT Bhubaneswar REP to drive
innovation
Japan commits Official Development Assistance (ODA) • Tata Steel partnered with IIT Bhubaneswar for
loan of Japanese Yen (JPY) 232.209 billion for nine projects innovation and entrepreneurship.
in various sectors in India
• The collaboration focuses on materials processing,
• The Govt. of Japan has committed an Official energy, environment, low-carbon steel production,
Development Assistance loan of an amount of JPY and circular economy.
232.209 billion for nine projects in various sectors. • The goal is to build a stronger ecosystem for sustainable
• India and Japan have had a long and fruitful history growth and technological advancement in the steel
of bilateral development cooperation since 1958. industry.
Key Points LIC launches Amritbaal for children

Japan’s Prime Minister – Fumio Kishida • LIC has launched ‘Amritbaal’, a new insurance plan for
children, with guaranteed additions and flexible age
Japan’s capital – Tokyo
and term specifications.
• This plan aims to support children’s education
97.5% of ` 2,000 notes already returned: RBI
and future needs, reflecting LIC’s commitment to
• RBI announced the withdrawal of ` 2,000 denomination innovative financial solutions for its customers.
banknotes from circulation on May 19, 2023. • The plan is available for entry from 30 days to 13 years,
• The facility for deposit and/or exchange of the ` 2,000 with a maturity age of 18 to 25 years. The minimum
banknotes was available at all bank branches in the sum assured is ` 2,00,000, with no maximum limit. This
country up to Oct 07, 2023. move aligns with LIC’s focus on the child segment and
• From October 9, 2023, RBI issue offices were also its goal of ensuring a secure financial future for the
accepting ` 2,000 banknotes from individuals or entities younger generation.
for deposit into their bank accounts.
• The status of withdrawal of ` 2,000 banknotes is Key Points
published by the banking regulator from time to time. LIC’s headquarters – Mumbai
• On January 1, 2024, it was revealed that 97.38% of Chairman – Siddhartha Mohanty
` 2,000 notes in circulation were returned.
8. CIAL signs agreement with BPCL to set up first green
Prama India and Government of India’s C-DAC (MeitY) hydrogen plant at Cochin airport
announced partnership for Thermal Camera Technology • Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) and Bharat
• Prama India and the Government of India’s C-DAC Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL) have joined forces
(MeitY) recently announced a technology partnership to establish a Green Hydrogen plant at the Cochin
through the ‘Transfer of Technology’ (ToT) Pact for Airport, a groundbreaking move in sustainable
Thermal Cameras with Centre for Development of aviation.
February 2024 13
• Through this collaboration, they aim to create the first Fintech startup ‘Paymart’ partners with five Indian banks
Green Hydrogen plant and fueling station within an for virtual ATM service
airport, showcasing their commitment to renewable • Paymart, a fintech startup, announced its partnership
energy and environmental stewardship.
with five Indian banks to introduce a groundbreaking
• Green hydrogen, produced from water using virtual, cardless and hardware-less cash withdrawal
renewable energy sources, is recognised as a future service.
fuel and aligns with zero-carbon energy strategies.
• The partnered banks include IDBI Bank, Indian Bank,
Reliance Industries will launch Hanooman, a ChatGPT- Jammu & Kashmir Bank and Karur Vyasa Bank, with
style AI service discussions underway with four additional banks for
• Reliance Industries is set to launch the innovative further collaboration.
ChatGPT-style service ‘Hanooman’ in collaboration
iCreate, Microsoft and MeitY join hands to transform an
with top engineering institutions.
boost Indian startups in Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• The AI model can operate in 11 languages and is
versatile in various fields. • International Centre for Entrepreneurship and
Technology (iCreate), Microsoft signed a Memorandum
• Reliance Jio plans to extend AI capabilities through ‘Jio
Brain’ for its large subscriber base. of Understanding (MoU) facilitated by the Ministry of
Electronics & IT to boost AI startups in India.
Key Points • The MoU between Microsoft and iCreate will lead the
Headquarters – Mumbai way to the launch of the IMPEL AI (iCreate-Microsoft
Founder – Dhirubhai Ambani programme for Emerging Leaders in Artificial
Intelligence) programme that will catalyse AI startups
Chairman and – Mukesh Ambani
in India.
Managing Director
Dvara Money and Jana Small Finance Bank Partner to
HDFC bank leads profitability rankings from April to facilitate digital banking in Bharat with Spark Money
December
• Dvara Money and Jana SFB have formed a strategic
• HDFC Bank emerged as the most profitable company
partnership to enhance digital banking services.
in the first nine months of the current fiscal year, with
• The collaboration aims to integrate third-party
a net profit of ` 44,300 crore.
applications and a Unified Payments Interface into
• State Bank of India (SBI) and Indian Oil Corporation
the Spark Money platform for a seamless banking
(IOC) follow closely, reporting profits of ` 40,378 crore
experience.
and ` 34,781 crore, respectively.
• The focus is on simplifying the account opening
Key Points process, especially for customers in the Bharat segment,
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra through Video KYC technology.
Chairman – Atanu Chakraborty • The combined technological infrastructure of the two
companies will create an efficient and user-friendly
CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan
digital banking solution.
DEFENCE NEWS
IIT Madras to develop India’s first smart bullets • It will be led by G. Rajesh from IIT Madras and focuses
on improving the accuracy and lethality of 155 mm
• In a strategic partnership, IIT Madras and Munitions
shells crucial for military operations.
India Limited (MIL) are collaborating to develop 155
• The partnership aims to reduce the Circular Error
smart ammunition to enhance India’s self-reliance in Probable (CEP) to 10 metres, significantly enhancing
defence. the ammunition’s effectiveness in combat.
Embraer Defense and Mahindra Defense system partner Range (ER) supersonic cruise missiles for deployment
on C-390 Millennium Medium Transport Aircraft in India on Indian Navy warships in a deal over ` 19,000 crores.
• Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra have signed • The BrahMos is the main weapon for anti-ship and
a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly attack operations for the Indian navy warships which
fulfil the acquisition of the C-390 Millennium multi- have been regularly firing the weapon system.
mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force in its upcoming • The BrahMos Aerospace is a joint venture between
Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project. India and Russia that makes supersonic cruise missiles
• The C-390 Millennium is a revolutionary military airlift that can be fired from submarines, ships, aircraft, or
technology with a capacity for a 26-ton payload, speed land platforms.
of 870 km/h, and versatility for various missions.
• The strategic collaboration aims to address defence Turkey’s first fifth-generation aircraft, KAAN, completes
needs and contribute to the Make in India initiative. Maiden Flight
• Turkey celebrated a significant milestone achievement
Indian Air Force test-fires SAMAR air defence system
as its first fifth-generation aircraft, KAAN, completed
• The SAMAR (Surface-to-Air Missile for Assured its inaugural flight, marking a significant advancement
Retaliation) air defence missile system was fired at the in the country’s military capabilities.
Vayushakti Exercise for the first time in Rajasthan’s
• KAAN embarked on its first flight, soaring through the
Jaisalmer.
skies for 13 minutes and reaching an altitude of 8,000
• SAMAR is developed in-house by the units of the
feet, highlighting Turkish engineering and aviation
Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Maintenance Command. It
expertise.
was conceived using outdated Russian-origin air-to-
air missile systems. DURGA-2 India’s own laser weapon being developed by
• Operating at speeds ranging from 2 to 2.5 Mach, the DRDO
system features a twin-turret launch platform capable • ‘DURGA-2’ project is a Directed-Energy Weapon
of launching two missiles in single and salvo modes, (DEW) being developed by the Defense Research and
depending on the threat scenario.
Development Organisation (DRDO).
Key Points • It aims to overcome the limitations of anti-aircraft and
Chief of Air Staff (CoAS) – Vivek Ram Chaudhari anti-missile systems by offering a 100% kill probability,
potentially revolutionising the military landscape.
Indian Air Force (IAF) conducts Exercise Vayu Shakti-24 • The Laser Science and Technology Centre (LSTC) in
• The IAF conducted Exercise Vayu Shakti-24 at Pokhran New Delhi is spearheading the project, developing
range, showcasing its aerial firepower. various laser generation techniques for both defensive
• The exercise featured over 120 aircraft executing and offensive purposes.
precision strikes on simulated enemy targets. • The project, funded with $100 million, aims to integrate
the laser system with land, sea, and air platforms.
200 BrahMos Extended Range (ER) supersonic cruise
missiles for deployment on Indian Navy warships to be Key Points
acquired
DRDO chief – Sameer V Kamat
• The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has given its
Headquarters – New Delhi
nod for the acquisition of over 200 BrahMos Extended
February 2024 15
Name Designation
Anil Kumar Lahoti Chairman of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
Jay Shah President of the Asian Cricket Council
Pawan Kumar Chief Adviser (Cost) In Ministry of Finance
Ranveer Singh Brand ambassador and stakeholder of boAt
Justice Ritu Bahri Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court
Upendra Dwivedi Army Vice Chief
Rajendra Prasad Gupta Advocate General of Rajasthan
Mio Oka Country Director for India, Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Justice Vijay Bishnoi Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court
Olzhas Bektenov Prime Minister of Kazakh
Naveen Tahilyani CEO & MD of Tata Digital
Ravi Kumar Jha MD & CEO of LIC Mutual Fund
Venkatachalam H MD & CEO of Tata AIA Life
Ashish Vijayakar MD & CEO of SBM Bank India
KVS Manian JMD (Joint Managing Director) of Kotak Mahindra Bank
Shubman Gill State icon for Lok Sabha polls of Punjab
Pradeep Kumar Sinha Non-Executive Part-time Chairman of ICICI Bank
Nawaf Salam President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Nikhil Joshi Managing Director of Boeing Defence India
Virendra Bansal MD & CEO of SBI Capital Markets (SBICAPS)
Sanjay Kumar Jain Chairman & Managing Director of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation
Ltd (IRCTC)
Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)
Charanjot Singh Nanda Vice-President of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)
Katrina Kaif Brand Ambassador of Chennai Super Kings
Sindhu Ganapathy First Transwoman Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) of Southern Railway
Narendra Kumar Yadav Brand Ambassador of Fit India Movement
Ajay Kumar Choudhary Non-Executive Chairman of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
Ravindra Kumar Director (Operations) of NTPC Ltd.
Renu Sud Karnad Chairperson and Independent Director of PayU
Justice A M Khanwilkar Chairperson of Lokpal
Maryam Nawaz Pakistan’s First Woman Chief Minister
Geeta Batra Director of the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the World Bank’s Global
Environment Facility (GEF)
Salil Parekh Board of Directors of the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF).
A S Rajeev Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
BOOKS AND AUTHORS
Books Authors
Assam’s Braveheart Lachit Barphukan Arup Kumar Dutta
Ek Samandar, Mere Andar Sanjeev Joshi
Dabbling in Diplomacy Prof. S.D. Muni
Maha Swaapnikudu P. Vikram
Sculpted Stones: Mysteries of Mamallapuram Ashwin Prabhu
Basic Structure and Republic P. S. Sreedharan Pillai
Swallowing the Sun Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri
Name Occupation
R. Champakalakshmi Historian
Farooq Nazki Poet and Sahitya Akademi Winner
A Ramachandran Artist
Usha Kiran Khan Writer
Dattajirao Gaekwad Cricketer
Imtiaz Qureshi Chef
Kavita Chaudhary Actor
Suhani Bhatnagar Actor
Rituraj Singh Actor
Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj Monk
Fali S Nariman Senior Supreme Court Advocate
Ameen Sayani Radio Presenter and Voice of Geetmala
Manohar Joshi Politician
K Hoysala Cricketer
Kumar Shahani Filmaker
Pankaj Udhas Ghazal Singer
Raja Venkatappa Naik Politician
Shafiqur Rahman Barq Politician/ Senior-most MP in Parliament and a member of the Samajwadi Party
Name Occupation
Carl Weather Actor

Sebastian Pinera Politician and Former President of Chile
Andreas Brehme Footballer
February 2024 17
DAYS AND THEMES
Date Day Theme

February 1 Indian Coast Guard Day
February 2 World Wetlands Day Wetlands and Human Wellbeing
February 2 Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness
Day
February 4 World Cancer Day Together, We Challenge those in Power
February 4 National Day of Sri Lanka
February 4 International Day of Human
Fraternity
February 4–10 International Development Week
February 6 International Day of Zero Her Voice. Her Future
Tolerance for Female Genital
Mutilation
February 6 Safer Internet Day Inspiring Change. Making a difference,
managing influence and navigating
change online
February 7 National Black HIV/AIDS Engage, Educate, Empower: Uniting to
Awareness Day (NBHAAD) End HIV/AIDS in Black Communities
February 10 International Day of the Arabian
Leopard
February 10 National Deworming Day
February 10 World Pulses Day Pulses: Nourishing Soil and People
February 11 World Day of Sick
February 11 International Day of Women and Women and Girls in Science Leadership, a
Girls in Science New Era for Sustainability
February 12 National Productivity Day Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Productivity
Engine for Economic Growth
February 12 World Radio Day Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining
and Educating
February 12 International Day for the Living Together: Fostering Community
Prevention of Violent Extremism Resilience to Prevent Violent Extremism as
as and when Conducive to and when Conducive to Terrorism
Terrorism
February 13 International Epilepsy Day Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey
February 14 World Congenital Heart Defect
Awareness Day
February 15 International Childhood Cancer
Day
February 15 World Hippo Day
February 16 World Anthropology Day
February 17 Global Tourism Resilience Day
February 17 World Pangolin Day
February 18 World Whale Day

February 20 World Day of Social Justice Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances
February 21 International Mother Language Multilingual education is a pillar of
Day intergenerational learning
February 22 World Thinking Day
February 24 World Peace and Understanding
Day
February 24 Central Excise Day
February 27 World NGO Day Building a Sustainable Future: The Role
of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs)
February 28 National Science Day Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat
February 29 (Last Day of February) World Rare Disease Day
India is the third largest digitised country in the world- congestion in 2023. London was the most traffic-
ICRIER clogged city centre with commuters taking 36 minutes
• According to the State of India’s Digital Economy and 20 seconds to cover 10 km.
Report, 2024, by the Indian Council for Research on • Bengaluru was ranked the second most congested city
International Economic Relations (ICRIER), India is in the world in the city centre (BBMP area) category.
the third largest digitised country in the world, only On average, it took 29 minutes and 10 seconds to cover
behind the United States of America (USA) and China. 10 km.
• However, at the level of individual users, India is
World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index 2023
ranked 12th in terms of digitalisation among the G20
countries. • India has made significant progress in improving its
• The study is based on the ‘CHIPS’ framework wherein logistics performance, moving up to the 38th position
it has scored countries on five pillars – Connect, out of 139 countries in the World Bank’s Logistics
Performance Index (LPI) ranking.
Harness, Innovate, Protect and Sustain.
• This advancement is a result of collaborative efforts
Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2023 released among various ministries and departments, as well as
• The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2023 was the implementation of key policies and initiatives to
released by Transparency International. Denmark enhance competitiveness on a global scale.
maintains its position as the least corrupt country with • The National Committee for Trade Facilitation (NCTF)
a score of 90, while Somalia tops the list as the most and initiatives like the PM GatiShakti National Master
corrupt with a score of 11. Plan and National Logistics Policy are driving reforms
• India Ranks 93rd with neighbouring countries like and improving connectivity and efficiency in the
Pakistan and Sri Lanka also struggling with corruption. logistics sector.
• The Rule of Law Index indicates a connection between
International IP index 2024 released
access to justice and corruption levels. The top 10
most corrupt countries in the world for 2024 include • India ranked 42nd in the International IP Index for 2024,
Somalia, Venezuela and Syria. out of 55 countries. India’s overall score also remained
unchanged at 38.64% according to the 12th edition of
TomTom Traffic Index 2023: London slowest, Bengaluru the US Chamber of Commerce’s Global Innovation
second most congested city Policy Center’s International IP Index.
• According to Dutch location technology specialist, • The index evaluates the IP frameworks of the world’s
TomTom’s report, London experienced the slowest top 55 economies, revealing significant improvements
traffic in 2023 and Bengaluru ranked second for traffic in 20 economies.
February 2024 19
• The United States is once again the world leader, there • The IP Index also serves as a compass to guide world
were notable advancements led by Saudi Arabia, Brazil leaders on proven methods to champion innovation
and Nigeria. and creativity at home.
EVENTS
PM Modi inaugurates the ninth edition of the Raisina • The festival featured performances by the Novosibirsk
Dialogue regional puppet theatre and a puppet exhibition,
• Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the ninth Raisina offering visitors a glimpse into the artistry behind
Dialogue in New Delhi along with Greek Prime puppet-making. Special morning shows for school
Minister Mitsotakis as the chief guest. students and evening performances for the general
• The focus was on mutual investment and strengthening public made the festival accessible to enthusiasts of all
ties between the two countries, with India’s investment ages.
in Greek infrastructure as a key example. Tripura CM Manik Saha inaugurates 2nd State Level
• The Raisina Dialogue focuses on global challenges and Shehri Samridhi Utsav
collaboration, with over 100 countries represented in
• Tripura Chief Minister Prof Dr Manik Saha inaugurated
the three-day conference.
the second state level Shehri Samridhi Utsav in
• The event underscores the importance of meaningful Agartala, focusing on urban livelihood opportunities
dialogue and collective action in fostering collaboration, and women’s empowerment.
innovation, and peace on a global scale.
• He highlighted government initiatives to empower
PM Modi inaugurates 200 Jayanti celebrations of
th women, including job reservations and market stall
Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati in New Delhi allocations.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the year- Electronics & IT Ministry hosts first Digital India Future
long celebrations commemorating the 200th birth SKILLS Summit in Guwahati
anniversary of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, at
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi.
(MeitY) and the National Institute of Electronics and IT
• Swami Dayanand was the founder of Arya Samaj and
(NIELIT) hosted the Future Skills Summit in Guwahati.
an advocate for Vedic principles and social reform. He
• The event aims to bring together young Indians,
was born on February 12, 1824.
experts and policymakers to discuss preparing talent
11th International Puppet Festival in Chandigarh for the future.
• Chandigarh hosted the 11th International Puppet • The summit focuses on emerging technologies like AI
Festival at Tagore Theatre, celebrating the rich legacy and cybersecurity, aligning with PM Modi’s vision for
of puppetry. India to become a global talent hub.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
India wins Prestigious GovTech Prize 2024 for iRASTE • It is a project by the Ministry of Road Transport &
Project Highways, which uses AI to improve road safety. The
• India was awarded the eminent GovTech Prize project aims to reduce accidents and fatalities by 50%
instituted by the government of UAE at the World in urban areas and enhance transportation efficiency.
Government Summit. • The prize recognised the Ministry of Road Transport
• India won in the ‘AI-Powered Government Services’ and Highways’ pioneering implementation of
category for its innovative iRASTE project that utilises predictive analytics and AI across urban transportation
artificial intelligence to transform road safety. networks.
Veteran music composer Pyarelal Sharma honoured with recipients were conferred the award in a year. They
Lakshminarayana International Award were – Jayaprakash Narayan, Amartya Sen, Gopinath
• Pyarelal Sharma, one-half of the renowned composer Bordoloi and Ravi Shankar.
duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, has been honoured with the • This year also five recipients will be conferred with the
prestigious Lakshminarayana international award in award and they are:
recognition of his outstanding contributions to Indian (1) LK Advani in recognition of his contributions to
music. Indian politics and society. He served as the seventh
• The award was presented at the Lakshminarayana Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004. He
Global Music Festival. also served as a Home Minister and Information and
Gulzar and Rambhadracharya to be honoured with Broadcasting Minister as well.
Jnanpith Award for 2023 (2) Karpoori Thakur, known as ‘Jan Nayak,’ served as
• Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Bihar’s eleventh Chief Minister twice, from 1970–71
Jagadguru Rambhadracharya were named the and 1977–79. He will be conferred the Bharat Ratna
recipients of the 58th Jnanpith award. posthumously.
• Sampooran Singh Kalra, popularly known as Gulzar, (3) MS Swaminathan, the ‘Father of India’s Green
is celebrated for his works in Hindi cinema and is Revolution,’ helped India become self-reliant in
considered one of the finest Urdu poets of this era. agriculture and modernised it. He will be conferred
• Rambhadracharya, the founder and head of Tulsi Peeth the Bharat Ratna posthumously.
in Chitrakoot, is a renowned Hindu spiritual leader, (4) P. V. Narasimha Rao served as the ninth Prime Minister
educator and writer of more than 240 books and texts, of India from 1991 to 1996, he will be conferred the
including four epics. Bharat Ratna posthumously.
• Jnanpith award is the highest Indian literary award (5) Chaudhary Charan Singh was an Indian politician and
presented annually by the Bharatiya Jnanpith to an a freedom fighter. He served as the fifth prime minister
author for their ‘outstanding contribution towards of India and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
literature’. It is bestowed only on Indian writers writing He will be conferred the Bharat Ratna posthumously.
in Indian languages included in the Eighth Schedule to
the Constitution of India and English. K.P.P. Nambiar Award for ISRO Chairman S. Somanath
• The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
Bharat Ratna Award 2024
(IEEE) Kerala conferred the 2024 K.P.P. Nambiar
• Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award in India
Award on Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
and is conferred in recognition of ‘exceptional service
Chairman S. Somanath.
/performance of the highest order.’
• Mr. Somanath has been pivotal in steering ISRO’s
• The last Bharat Ratna award was conferred upon
lunar exploration programme, Chandrayaan-3, and
Pranab Mukherjee in 2019 and was posthumously
played significant roles in various Vikram Sarabhai
awarded to Bhupendra Kumar Hazarika and Nanaji
Space Centre (VSSC) and ISRO missions.
Deshmukh. The award was not given to anyone
between 2020 and 2023. • The award commemorates the doyen of the electronic
• The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are made industry K.P.P. Nambiar, who was also the founder
by the Prime Minister himself to the President. The chair of IEEE Kerala section.
number of Bharat Ratna awards is restricted to a • It is given to individuals or groups in the State
maximum of three in a particular year. However, this for significant contributions to the IEEE vision of
rule was broken for the first time in 1999 when four advancing technology for humanity.
February 2024 21
SPORTS NEWS
Women Premier League 2024 • BIMSTEC (The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-
• The second edition of the Women’s Premier League Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation)
(WPL 2024) began at M Chinnaswamy stadium in constitutes a unique link between South and South-
Bengaluru. East Asian countries with five members from South Asia
• The WPL 2024 opener was played between defending (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and two members
champions Mumbai Indians and inaugural edition from South-East Asia (Myanmar and Thailand).
runner-ups Delhi Capitals. There is no change in the
format of WPL 2024 from the previous edition. Pathum Nissanka becomes first Sri Lankan to smash ODI
• The second edition of WPL will be played in two double century
venues. Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy stadium will • Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka created history
host the first leg of the tournament, while Delhi’s Arun when he became the first batter from the country to
Jaitley Stadium will host the second leg along with the reach the 200-run mark in ODIs.
eliminator and final. • Nissanka also registered the highest individual score
Australia beats India by 79 runs in U19 World Cup 2024 for Sri Lanka in ODIs, surpassing former opener
• Australia U19 claimed a 79-run victory over India in Sanath Jayasuriya, whose 189 against India stood as a
the U19 World Cup 2024 final, securing their fourth record for over 23 years.
U-19 World Cup title.
Switzerland Tourism honours Neeraj Chopra with plaque
• Australia previously won in 2002, 2010 and 2020, at Jungfrau’s Ice Palace
showcasing their depth and talent throughout the
tournament. • India’s Olympic and world champion javelin thrower
Neeraj Chopra has been honoured with a plaque at the
Abhinav Bindra selected as torchbearer for the 2024 Paris famous Ice Palace at Jungfraujoch, known as the ‘Top
Olympics of Europe’, in Switzerland.
• Abhinav Bindra was selected as the torchbearer for the • Chopra donated one of his javelins to the tourist
2024 Paris Olympics and will be representing India as attraction and it has been placed alongside the plaque.
a torchbearer for Paris 2024.
• This prestigious recognition adds another feather to
• He is India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist
his cap and strengthens the bond between Switzerland
and an IOC Athletes Commission member.
and India.
• The journey will begin from Olympia to Marseille,
with the flame set to arrive in Marseille on May 8 for South Africa Tristan Stubbs hits First-Class triple century
the start of the French Torch Relay.
• Tristan Stubbs is the eleventh batsman to hit a triple
New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium to host 2026 FIFA World century in South Africa’s First-Class cricket history.
Cup final on July 19 • He is also the eighth to achieve this feat since the
• The 2026 World Cup final will be held at the MetLife country’s readmission to international cricket, marking
Stadium in New Jersey. The sporting event will be a significant boost for the national Test squad.
held in 16 cities across the United States, Canada and
Mexico. MS Dhoni named as the captain of IPL’s all-time greatest
• The open-air stadium for the final, which opened team
in 2010 and cost $1.6bn, hosted the Copa America • In a celebration of the Indian Premier League’s (IPL)
Centenario final in 2016 when Chile denied Lionel monumental success since its inception in 2008, ex-
Messi’s Argentina for a second time in a penalty India captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend
shootout. MS Dhoni has been chosen to captain the all-time
Union Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur kicks off greatest IPL team.
the first BIMSTEC Aquatics Championships • The selection panel, comprising former cricketers
• Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Shri Sports Wasim Akram, Matthew Hayden, Tom Moody and
Anurag Singh Thakur kicked off BIMSTEC Aquatics Dale Steyn, along with input from 70 journalists,
Championships 2024 in New Delhi. finalised the 15-member squad.
• The IPL will complete 16 years on February 20, 2024. • Kumari’s dope sample, taken out-of-competition, was
• The opening duo includes David Warner from Australia found to contain steroids Stanozolol, Metandienone,
and Virat Kohli, while Chris Gayle occupies the crucial Dehydrochloromethyltestosterone (DHCMT) and
number three spot in the batting order. Clenbuterol.
• The middle-order boasts the likes of Suresh Raina, AB
Anurag Singh Thakur launched Khelo India University
de Villiers, Suryakumar Yadav along with Dhoni as the
Games In Guwahati
wicketkeeper-batter. The all-rounder includes Hardik
Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, accompanied by Kieron • Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated
Pollard. The spin attack is spearheaded by the trio of Khelo India University games in Guwahati.
Rashid Khan, Sunil Narine and Yuzvendra Chahal, • PM Modi addressed Khelo India University Games
while the pace department sees the inclusion of Lasith being held across the seven states in the Northeast via
Malinga and Jasprit Bumrah. a video message.
• The event will encompass 20 sports disciplines,
India women clinch Badminton Asia Team Championships
spanning from athletics, rugby, swimming, and
title
badminton to hockey and football, among others and
• India women’s badminton team scripted history in held across 18 venues.
Selangor Malaysia as they won the Badminton Asia
Team Championships crown, beating Thailand 3-2 in Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Anil Kumble to become
a hard-fought final. the fastest Indian to reach 500 test wickets
• This is the first time India has won the prestigious • Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made history
continental team championship title in the history of by becoming the leading wicket-taker in test matches
the sport. played on Indian soil, surpassing Anil Kumble’s record.
• PV Sindhu, Gayatri Gopichand-Treesa Jolly and • Ashwin achieved this milestone during the fourth test
teenage sensation Anmol Kharb won their respective match against England in Ranchi, reaching a total of
matches as India won the final 3-2. 351 wickets in India.
Indian hammer thrower Rachna Kumari banned for • Anil Kumble became the fastest bowler to take 350
12 years for doping Indian test wickets on home soil and levelled him
with the most five-fors by an Indian bowler. This is
• Indian hammer thrower Rachna Kumari was handed
Ashwin’s 59th test in India, which means he reached
a 12-year ban for failing multiple dope tests by the
international federation’s Athletics Integrity Unit the milestone of 350 and more on home soil four
(AIU). matches quicker than Kumble.
CURRENT AFFAIRS
March 2024
CONTENTS
 Lok Sabha Elections 2024 3
 National News 4
 Defence News 16
 Events 23
 Sports News 26
March 2024 3
LOK SABHA ELECTIONS 2024
Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into force for the Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu appointed
2024 Lok Sabha elections as the Election Commissioners
• On March 16, the Election Commission of India (ECI) • Retired bureaucrats Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh
announced that the country would vote in seven Sandhu were appointed as Election Commissioners
phases for the eighteenth Lok Sabha elections. by a high-powered panel chaired by Prime Minister
• The voting will take place from April 19 to June 1 and Narendra Modi.
the results will be announced on June 4. With this, the • Election Commissioner Arun Goel had resigned from
Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into effect. his position and the other Election Commissioner
• The MCC of ECI is a set of guidelines issued to regulate Anup Pandey had retired. This left the three-member
political parties and candidates before elections. It Election Commission with only one member: Chief
comes into force from the date the election schedule Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.
is announced until the date that the results are out. • Under the terms of the Chief Election Commissioner
• MCC has eight provisions dealing with general and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment,
conduct, meetings, processions, polling day, polling Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023,
booths, observers, the party in power, and election the government-dominated selection committee is
manifestos. empowered to fill vacant slots on the ECI from candidates
short-listed by a search committee headed by the
• Once the MCC is in force, no policy, project or scheme
Union Cabinet Secretary.
can be announced that can influence voting behaviour.
The political party must also avoid advertising at the • The Act is under challenge in the Supreme Court for
cost of the public exchequer or using official mass media violating the apex court’s ruling last year that ECI
for publicity on achievements to improve chances of members be selected by a panel that is not dominated
victory in the elections. by the government – to ensure the ECI’s independence.
• The MCC has no statutory backing and the EC uses Meta unveils ‘comprehensive’ plan for tackling
moral sanction or censure for its enforcement. misinformation during upcoming Lok Sabha elections
Key Points • Meta has unveiled a ‘comprehensive approach’ to
limit misinformation, eliminate voter interference
Chief Election — Rajiv Kumar
and increase transparency and accountability on its
Commissioner
platform during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in
National Voter’s — January 25 (Founding Day India.
Day (NVD) of ECI)
• It will enable an India-specific Elections Operations
The theme of — Nothing Like Voting, Centre to identify potential threats and implement
NVD 2024 I Vote For sure appropriate measures in real time.
• Meta had signed a voluntary code of ethics with ECI
Election Commission launches ‘Know Your Candidate’ in 2019. Under this code, both of them are working
app closely, which provides the ECI with a ‘high priority’
• ECI has launched a new mobile application called channel for flagging unlawful content.
‘Know Your Candidate’ (KYC) which will enable • Meta will use keyword detection to make it easier for
voters to find out if any electoral candidate in their fact-checkers to rate misinformation. Fact-checkers
constituency has any criminal records. will be able to flag content as ‘altered’, meaning that
• The voters can also now check for themselves the assets the audio, video or photo has either been ‘fabricated,
and liabilities that candidates with criminal antecedents manipulated or transformed’. Once flagged as altered,
hold. Candidates are required to disclose their criminal the content will appear lower in the Facebook feed,
records in newspapers and on television three times. while it will be filtered out on Instagram.
The parties nominating such candidates must explain • Meta is the owner of popular social media companies
their selection over other deserving candidates. like Instagram, Threads and Facebook.
Key Points Govt amends rules to allow postal ballots for those aged
85 or above
Chairman and CEO — Mark Zuckerberg
• The Union Law Ministry amended the Conduct of
COO — Javier Olivan
Elections Rules-1961 to change the definition of senior
ECI launches Saksham App citizens who are eligible to choose the postal ballot
• ECI has launched the Saksham App to facilitate easier facility from those ‘above 80 years’ to those ‘above
voting for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and to avail 85 years’.
facilities at Polling Stations. • The rules enable postal ballot voting for a ‘notified
• It provides several features like voice assistance for class of electors’, which includes essential services
PwDs who are visually impaired. The app provides workers, persons with disabilities, Covid-19-infected
a text-to-speech feature for PwDs who are hearing or suspected cases and senior citizens.
impaired. • In Section 27(A) (e), senior citizens had been defined
• It has several accessibility features, such as large fonts as those above 80 years.
and high-contrast colours, to make it easier for PwDs
Election Commission releases data on electoral bonds
to use.
• ECI made public a fresh data set of electoral bonds,
• It provides information on polling stations, including
including their alpha-numeric numbers, which
the location of the polling station, the accessibility
enabled matching the purchases of these bonds with
features available at the polling station, and the contact
the political parties that received the funds public.
details of the polling officials.
• This data was furnished by the State Bank of India
• It allows PwDs to file complaints about any problems
at the direction of the Supreme Court. SBI told the
they face while participating in the electoral process.
Supreme Court that a total of 22,217 electoral bonds
Election Commission launches ‘Mission 414’ campaign were purchased by political parties between April 1,
in Himachal Pradesh to boost voter turnout 2019, and February 15, 2024, out of which 22,030 were
• ECI has launched ‘Mission 414’ targeting 414 polling redeemed. The total amount encashed via the electoral
stations in Himachal Pradesh which registered less bonds was ` 12,145.87 crore.
than 60% voting in the last Lok Sabha polls. • According to the SBI data, the Bharatiya Janata Party
• All identified polling stations will be transformed into (BJP) was the biggest beneficiary of its electoral bonds
model polling stations, aiming to enhance the voting scheme followed by All India Trinamool Congress
experience. (AITC), and Congress.
• To invigorate youth participation, booth youth icons • Earlier, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court
will be appointed from among the first-time voters in headed by the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud
these polling booths, fostering a sense of responsibility struck down the electoral bonds scheme by declaring
and ownership towards the electoral process. it unconstitutional.
Chief Electoral Officer, — Maneesh Garg SBI’s Chairman — Dinesh Kumar Khara
Himachal Pradesh Headquarters — Mumbai, Maharashtra
NATIONAL NEWS
PM Narendra Modi witnesses the historic ‘Commencement • In 2003, the government approved the creation of
of Core Loading’ at India’s first indigenous Fast Breeder Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI) to
Reactor (500 MWe) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu construct and operate India’s most advanced nuclear
• Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi witnessed the reactor – Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).
commencement of ‘Core Loading’ at India’s first • Core loading is the process of placing nuclear fuel
indigenous Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe) at Kalpakkam, assemblies inside the core of a nuclear reactor. The Fast
Tamil Nadu. Breeder Reactor (FBR) will initially use the uranium –
March 2024 5
plutonium Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuel. Upon completion • Under the PRASHAD scheme, he inaugurated various
of the core loading, the first approach to criticality development works worth ` 50 crore in Amarkantak,
will be achieved, leading to the generation of power Madhya Pradesh. These include the development
subsequently. around the Narmada Temple and the expansion of
• Once commissioned, India will only be the second tourist and public facilities in Amarkantak.
country after Russia to have a commercially operating • PRASHAD scheme stands for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation
Fast Breeder Reactor. and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive. Under this,
• India’s nuclear programme aims to achieve the twin the Ministry of Tourism provides financial assistance
goals of energy- security and sustainable development. to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations
for infrastructure development at tourist destinations.
IAU approves ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ as name for
Chandrayaan-3 landing site
Key Points
• The International Astronomical Union (IAU) working
Union Minister of — G. Kishan Reddy
group for Planetary System Nomenclature has
Tourism
approved the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing
site of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander. Madhya Pradesh — Mohan Yadav
• Earlier, PM Narendra Modi had named the landing Chief Minister
site of ‘Vikram lander’ as ‘Shiv Shakti’ where ‘Shiv’ Madhya Pradesh — Mangubhai
symbolises determination for the betterment of Governor Chhaganbhai Patel
humanity. ‘Shakti’ represents the strength to achieve Madhya Pradesh Capital — Bhopal
these resolutions.
• Chandrayaan-3 was India’s mission to the moon. The
PM Modi unveils bronze statue of Ahom general in
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched
Assam
the Chandrayaan 3 mission on July 14, 2023, and it
comprised Vikram lander and Pragyan rover. • Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a 125-foot
bronze statue of Ahom general Lachit Borphukan at
• On August 23, 2023, India became the first country to
his burial site in Jorhat district, Assam.
successfully land on the South Pole of the moon. With
this, India also became the fourth country in the world • It is known as the ‘Statue of Valour’ and was unveiled
to land on the moon. at the Lachit Barphukan Maidam Development Project
at Hollongapar near Teok. The total project cost will be
Key Points ` 214 crore.
IAU’s President — Debra Meloy Elmegreen • The statue was built by Ram Vanji Sutar. The height
IAU’s Headquarters — Paris, France of the statute is 84 feet and it is set on a pedestal of
41 feet, making the structure 125 feet tall.
ISRO’s Chairman — Sreedhara Somanath
• Lachit Borphukan was a legendary army commander
ISRO’s Headquarters — Bengaluru, Karnataka
of the Ahom kingdom (1228–1826), known for his
leadership in the 1671 ‘Battle of Saraighat’. He defeated
PM Modi inaugurates Spiritual Experience Project in
the Mughal forces, led by Raja Ramsingh-I, in this
Chitrakoot
battle.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation
• He was buried at the ‘maidam’ — burial grounds
stone for the ‘Experience of Spirituality at Chitrakoot
for Ahom royals and nobles — at Hollongapar, after
Ghat’ project in Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh. This
passing away a year after the battle at the age of
was done via video conferencing and will be covered
49 due to illness.
under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme.
• The SD 2.0 was launched to develop sustainable Key Points
and responsible destinations following a tourist and Assam Chief Minister — Himanta Biswa Sarma
destination-centric approach. It is the revamped Assam Governor — Gulab Chand Kataria
version of the Swadesh Darshan scheme of the Ministry
Assam capital — Dispur
of Tourism.
North India’s first Govt Homeopathic college to be of hydrogen and support eight hours of operations.
established in Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir The vessel is also fitted with a 3-kW solar panel.
• The first Government Homeopathic College of North Nagaland Assembly introduces resolution asking centre
India will be established in the Jasrota area of district to reconsider decision to scrap Free Movement Regime
Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir. (FMR), fence border
• It will be centrally funded at a cost of ` 80 crores.
• The Nagaland Legislative Assembly has unanimously
Key Points adopted a resolution against the central government’s
decision to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR)
Jammu & Kashmir — Manoj Sinha
between India and Myanmar and to abandon the plan
Lt. Governor
to fence the border.
PM Modi inaugurates Sela tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh. • This resolution reflects the concerns of the Naga people
regarding the disruption of historical, social, tribal, and
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi remotely inaugurated
economic ties caused by these measures.
the Sela tunnel, which is situated at an altitude of
13,700 feet in the West Kameng district on the road Key Points
connecting Tezpur to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Nagaland Capital — Kohima
It is the world’s longest twin-lane tunnel above 13,000 Chief Minister — Neiphiu Rio
feet.
Governor — La. Ganesan
• It was built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)
for ` 825 crore. PM Modi lays foundation stone for India’s second
• Sela is the country’s highest tunnel providing all- spaceport in Tamil Nadu
weather connectivity to the strategic Tawang region • Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation
and other forward areas bordering China near the stone for the Indian Space Research Organisation’s
Line of Actual Control (LAC). (ISRO) second spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam,
• It was built using the new Austrian Tunnelling Method Tamil Nadu.
and incorporating safety features of the highest • The new spaceport, sprawling over 2,233 acres in the villages
standards. of Padukkapathu, Pallakurichi, and Mathavankurichi in
Kulasekarapattinam and Sathankulam taluks, is expected
Key Points
to be operational in two years.
Capital — Itanagar • It will complement the existing spaceport in Sriharikota,
Chief Minister — Pema Khandu Andhra Pradesh, and is strategically positioned to offer
Governor — Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik geographical advantages that promise fuel savings and
more efficient satellite launches.
PM Modi launches India’s first hydrogen-powered ferry • This ambitious project, costing ` 950 crore, marks a
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched pivotal moment in India’s space exploration journey,
India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell promising to enhance the nation’s satellite launch
ferry, which is a 24-metre-long catamaran, which can capabilities, particularly for small satellites.
carry 50 people in its air-conditioned passenger area.
PM Modi launches India’s first underwater metro service
• The vessel, manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited in Bengal
(CSL), will be deployed for service at Varanasi in Uttar
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Howrah
Pradesh.
Maidan-Esplanade section of Kolkata Metro’s East-
• It is built for ` 18 crores and will be handed over to the West corridor.
Inland Waterways Authority of India by the CSL after • It is built for ` 4,965 crore and is a part of the 16.6 km
rigorous trials. of the East-West Metro corridor.
• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways met • Of the total East-West Metro corridor, nearly 10.8 km is
75% of the project cost. underground, including the tunnel beneath the river.
• As the name suggests, hydrogen fuel cell vessels run The project has been executed with enhanced safety
on hydrogen fuel, which is stored in cylinders. This measures, including using features like anti-collision
boat has five hydrogen cylinders that can carry 40 kg and automatic train control mechanisms.
March 2024 7
• It is branded as India’s first underwater metro service • IBCA was conceived as a multi-country, multi-agency
where the metro will ply under a river – Hooghly. coalition of 96 big cat range countries and others to
• It is being executed by Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation establish a common platform for conservation. It aims
Limited (KMRCL). towards conserving our majestic big cats and their
habitats.’
India Funds $11M renewable energy project in
Sri Lanka • Out of the seven big cats (tiger, lion, leopard, snow
leopard, puma, jaguar and cheetah), five — tiger, lion,
• India provided a $11 million grant project with Sri
leopard, snow leopard and cheetah — are found in
Lanka and a private partner to install hybrid renewable
India.
energy infrastructure across three islands off the Jaffna
peninsula in northern Sri Lanka. Union Minister of Steel inaugurates India’s first Green
• This initiative aims to bolster Sri Lanka’s energy Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector
security and aid in its economic recovery, marking the
• Union Minister for Steel and Civil Aviation, Sh.
third India-backed energy project in the region.
Jyotiraditya M. Scindia virtually inaugurated India’s
• The effort supports India’s ‘neighbourhood first’ policy, first Green Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector
emphasising humanitarian assistance, connectivity,
located at Jindal Stainless Limited, Hisar, Haryana.
and community development cooperation during Sri
Lanka’s challenging transition. • It aligns with the government’s vision for a cleaner and
more sustainable future.
Key Points • It will be the world’s first off-grid Green Hydrogen
President — Ranil Wickremesinghe plant for the stainless steel industry and the world’s
Prime Minister — Dinesh Gunawardena first Green Hydrogen plant with rooftop & floating
Capital — Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte solar.
(legislative) and Colombo • This project is also a state-of-the-art green hydrogen
(executive and judicial) facility with a target to reduce carbon emissions
considerably by around 2,700 metric tonnes per annum
India replaces the first batch of military in Maldives with and 54,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next two
technical personnel decades.
• India replaced its first batch of military soldiers in
Maldives with technical personnel. Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Dwarka Expressway’s
19 km Gurgaon section
• Both India and the Maldives had mutually agreed on
setting up workable solutions to enable the ongoing • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated
operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide 19-kilometre elevated section of the Dwarka
medical as well as humanitarian evacuation services Expressway, marking a significant milestone in India’s
to the people of the Maldives. road infrastructure that will reduce the commute
• Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu had set March 10 between Dwarka and Gurgaon to just 20 minutes.
as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of • The Dwarka expressway is a 28.5-km road, of which
Indian military troops from Maldives. His government the 19-km Gurgaon section has been opened.
had formally requested that India withdraw its troops • The Gurgaon section of Dwarka Expressway costs
from Male.
around ` 4,100 crores and includes two 10.2 km long
Union Cabinet approves establishment of International Delhi–Haryana Border to Basai Rail-over-Bridge
Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) (ROB) and 8.7 km long Basai ROB to Kherki Daula.
• The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of The expressway will also provide direct connectivity
the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with its to the IGI Airport in Delhi and Gurugram bypass.
headquarters in India. • It is an architectural marvel and stands out as the
• India will provide a one-time budgetary support of widest road constructed on a single pier. It boasts
` 150 crore for a period of five years from 2023–24 to eight lanes and several innovative features aimed at
2027–28. enhancing connectivity and traffic efficiency.
PM Modi inaugurates Kochrab Ashram, launches plan of PM Modi inaugurates women and child hospital in
Gandhi Ashram Memorial Thimphu during his visit
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the • Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bhutan for a
redeveloped Kochrab Ashram and launched the Master two-day State visit to strengthen India–Bhutan ties.
plan of the Gandhi Ashram Memorial, at Mahatma • He inaugurated the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck
Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Mother and Child Hospital, a ` 140-crore hospital for
• The Kochrab Ashram was the first Ashram established women and children built in Thimphu with Indian
by Mahatma Gandhi after coming to India from South assistance.
Africa in 1915. • It is a 150-bed hospital and was built in two phases.
• It is still preserved as a memorial and tourist space by The first phase was built for ` 22 crores and has been
Gujarat Vidyapeeth. operational since 2019. The construction of the second
phase, with a cost of ` 119 crores, began in 2019 as part
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates India’s first
of Bhutan’s 12th five-year plan and was completed
automobile in-plant railway siding
recently.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s
• Also, India will double its assistance for Bhutan’s five-
first automobile in-plant railway siding at Suzuki
year plan from ` 5,000 crores to ` 10,000 crores. The
Motor Gujarat (SMG), a wholly-owned subsidiary of
move came against the backdrop of concerted efforts
the country’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India.
by China to settle a border dispute and establish
• The inauguration was done via video conferencing. diplomatic ties with Bhutan.
• As part of the government’s Gati Shakti programme,
the in-plant railway siding at SMG aims to reduce Soma–The Ayurvedic Kitchen, India’s first Ayurvedic
carbon footprint in logistics, bring down fossil fuel cafe inaugurated in Delhi
consumption and reduce road congestion. • Soma, the Ayurvedic Kitchen which is housed inside
• The SMG railway siding project is a collaboration The Maharishi Ayurveda Hospital in Shalimar Bagh,
between Maruti and Gujarat Rail Infrastructure Delhi is being hailed as the first Ayurvedic Kitchen in
Development (G-RIDE). Once fully operational, India.
the facility can dispatch 3,00,000 cars annually to • All of the food is prepared without onion and garlic
15 destinations across India. and is customised according to the visitor’s health.
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
PM Modi launches SURAJ portal to benefit marginalised • This platform will add a layer of protection against
sector faceless criminals using tech to rob people of their
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Pradhan money. It allows for real-time intelligence-sharing
Mantri Samajik Utthan and Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan’ among several stakeholders.
(PM-SURAJ) national portal and sanctioned credit • Chakshu is a Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP)
support to one lakh entrepreneurs of disadvantaged which integrates with the Sanchar Saathi portal of the
sections. Department of Telecommunications.
• This initiative was launched during an event of the • Through this portal, users will be able to report mobile
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. numbers and messages which are being used for fake
• During the same event, Ayushman health cards calls. This will help the government to take action
and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits were against them.
distributed by the ministry to sewer and septic tank
workers (Safai Mitras) under the National Action for Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launches NITI
Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE). Aayog’s – ‘NITI for States’ platform
Govt launches ‘Chakshu’ Portal to report fraudulent • Union Minister of Communications, Railways, and
calls, SMS, etc. Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini
• The Indian government has rolled out a digital Vaishnaw launched the ‘NITI for States’ platform.
platform, Chakshu to flag fake calls and text messages • It is a centralised and comprehensive digital repository
by fraudsters. of valuable resources, including best practices, policy
March 2024 9
documents, datasets and NITI Aayog publications, and Afghanistan due to religious persecution or fear
spanning various sectors and cross-cutting themes like thereof before December 2014.
gender and climate change. • Under the CAA 2019 amendment, migrants who
• The initiative is designed to empower states and entered India by December 31, 2014, were eligible for
union territories (UTs) in their pursuit of national fast-track Indian citizenship. The amendment reduced
development goals. the residence requirement for naturalisation from
eleven years to five.
Kerala launches India’s first government-owned OTT
• The eligible applicants include individuals of Indian
platform ‘CSpace’
origin, spouses of Indian citizens, minor children of
• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated Indian citizens, individuals with registered Indian
the state’s own Over-The-Top (OTT) platform- CSpace. citizen parents, and Overseas Citizens of India
It is India’s first government-backed OTT platform Cardholders, among others.
and addresses challenges in selecting and distributing
content. Living Animal Species (Reporting and Registration)
• It is managed by the Kerala State Film Development Rules, 2024
Corporation (KSFDC) and operates under the support of • According to the Living Animal Species (Reporting
the Department of Cultural Affairs of the Government and Registration) Rules, 2024 issued by the Union
of Kerala. Environment Ministry, people with exotic pets such
• Each submission on CSpace undergoes a meticulous as macaws, cockatoos, or a variety of soft-shell turtles
evaluation process by three curators who consider will have to register them with the state wildlife
its artistic, cultural, and entertainment value. Only department.
approved content makes it to the platform. • The species covered are those listed under the
• CSpace adopts a pay-per-view model, charging users Convention on International Trade in Endangered
` 75 per movie. Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
• ‘Animal species’ means any living specimens of any
Piyush Goyal launches ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ to ease animal species listed in Schedule IV appended to the
farmers’ warehousing logistics Act” which covers species under the Convention.”
• Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public • These rules do not apply to other wildlife that is already
Distribution, Commerce and Industry and Textiles, Piyush protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and cannot
Goyal launched ‘e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi’ (Digital Gateway) be kept in captivity.
of Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority • Section 49 M of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment
(WDRA) in New Delhi. Act 2022 provides for the registration of possession,
• This initiative provides a simplified digital process transfer, and reporting of birth and death of living
that can ease the procedure of farmers’ storage at scheduled animal species which are listed in the
any registered WDRA warehouse for 6 months at 7% Appendices of CITES and listed in the Schedule IV
interest per annum. of the Act and it is the rules regarding this that have
• Farmers stocking their produce at these warehouses been issued on February 28 and have already come
would need to pay only a 1% security deposit instead into effect.
of the earlier 3%. • India is a party to the CITES, which requires that
appropriate measures are taken to enforce the
Central government notifies Citizenship Amendment
provisions of the convention.
Act (CAA) rules, 2024
• The Ministry of Home Affairs notified the rules for Government approves e-Vehicle policy to promote India
implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, as a manufacturing destination for e-vehicles
2019. • The Government of India has approved a scheme
• The CAA was passed on December 11, 2019, to amend to promote India as a manufacturing destination
the Citizenship Act of 1955. This amendment allowed so that e-vehicles with the latest technology can be
for the grant of Indian citizenship to religious minorities, manufactured in the country. The policy is designed to
including Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, attract investments in the e-vehicle space by reputed
and Christians, who fled from Pakistan, Bangladesh, global EV manufacturers.
• The minimum investment required is ` 4150 crores news and revamped news on air app would provide
and there is no limit on maximum investment. The users seamless experience and better user engagement.
investment commitment made by the company will The websites will have a user-friendly experience and
have to be backed up by a bank guarantee in lieu of engaging has latest design elements so that users can
the custom duty forgone. have a seamless experience.
• The timeline for setting up manufacturing facilities
in India is three years and reach 50% Domestic Value Key Points
Addition (DVA) within 5 years at the maximum. CEO, Prasar Bharti — Gaurav Dwivedi
• This will provide Indian consumers with access to the
latest technology, boost the Make in India initiative, Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024
and strengthen the EV ecosystem by promoting • The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
healthy competition among EV players leading to a Change of India has recently introduced amendments
high volume of production, economies of scale, lower to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, through
cost of production, reduce imports of crude oil, lower the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules,
trade deficit, reduce air pollution, particularly in 2024.
cities, and will have a positive impact on health and
• These changes signify a significant effort to address
environment.
plastic pollution in India, particularly by targeting
Union Minister Shri Anurag Thakur launches Prasar microplastics and setting stricter criteria for
Bharti-Shared Audio Visuals for Broadcast and biodegradable plastics.
Dissemination (PB-SHABD) • The updated Plastic Waste Management (Amendment)
• Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Rules, 2024, now require that biodegradable plastics
Anurag Singh Thakur launched PB-SHABD, a news- not only degrade through biological processes in
sharing service from Prasar Bharti and websites of DD specific environments but also leave no microplastics
News and Akashvani News as well as updated News behind.
on Air mobile app. • The new amendments to the Plastic Waste Management
• PB-SHABD will be a single-point source of news (Amendment) Rules, 2024, define biodegradable
content and is being offered free of cost for the first year plastics as materials that not only degrade through
as an introductory offer. It will provide news stories in biological processes in specific environments such as
all major Indian languages across fifty categories. soil or landfills but also leave no microplastics behind.
• PB-SHABD platform has been designed to provide • However, the rules do not specify which chemical tests
daily news feeds in video, audio, text, photo and other can be used to establish the absence of microplastics
formats to the subscribers from media landscape. or to what extent microplastics must be reduced in a
• The revamped websites of DD News and Akashvani sample to consider them eliminated.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Thailand passes landmark bill for marriage equality authority to provide medical treatment permission for
• Thailand’s parliament passed legislation to recognise impaired partners.
same-sex marriage. The bill will now be passed to the
European Union to investigate tech giants under the new
upper-house Senate and it will then be endorsed by
Digital Markets Act (DMA) tech legislation
the King and published in the Royal Gazette.
• This would pave the way for the country to become • The EU has launched a probe into whether Apple,
the first in Southeast Asia to guarantee marriage rights Alphabet and Meta violated the Digital Markets Act
for gay and lesbian couples. (DMA).
• The bill defines marriage as a ‘partnership between two • It will be the first probe under DMA tech legislation.
individuals’ rather than a woman and a man. It will DMA came into force on November 1, 2022, and aims
also grant LGBTQ couples similar rights to numerous to create a level playing field for businesses operating
tax breaks, the capacity to inherit property, and the in the digital sector. It also prevents large platforms
March 2024 11
from abusing their market power.

Key Points
UN adopts first global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Prime Minister — Gabriel Attal
resolution
Capital — Paris
• The United Nations General Assembly unanimously
adopted the first global resolution on artificial
US, UK and Australia entered an agreement to build
intelligence that encourages countries to safeguard
Australia’s SSN-AUKUS submarines
human rights, protect personal data, and monitor AI
for risks. • The United States, the United Kingdom and Australia
have entered a new agreement to build Australia’s
• It is a non-binding resolution and was proposed by the
SSN-AUKUS submarines and termed it a significant
United States. It was co-sponsored by China and over
120 other nations and also advocates the strengthening milestone in the endeavour of defence cooperation.
of privacy policies. • Under the new trilateral security partnership, Australia’s
• The resolution is the latest in a series of initiatives ASC and the BAE systems will build the SSN-AUKUS
by governments around the world to shape AI’s submarines for the Royal Australian Navy.
development and mitigate its potential harms. • The SSN-AUKUS will be equipped for intelligence,
surveillance, undersea warfare and strike missions,
Key Points and will provide maximum interoperability among
UN’s Headquarters — New York, US AUKUS partners.
UNGA President — Dennis Francis • AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership designed to
UN Secretary General — António Guterres create a stronger, more resilient trilateral submarine
industrial base, supporting submarine production and
maintenance in all three countries.
Panama becomes 97th member of the International Solar
Alliance (ISA) US President Joe Biden signs funding bill, averting
• Panama has officially ratified the ISA, marking its entry government shutdown
as the 97th member nation. • US Joe Biden signed a $1.2 trillion funding package
• ISA was conceived as a joint effort by India and France. that keeps the US government running through Sept.
Currently, 116 countries are signatories to the ISA 30, averting a partial shutdown.
Framework Agreement. • The funding package will be used in the critical
• ISA consists of sunshine countries which lie either government operations – Department of Defense,
completely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and Department of Homeland Security, Department of
the Tropic of Capricorn. Labor, Department of Health and Human Services,
Department of Education, Department of State, and
Key Points Legislative Branch
ISA Director General — Ajay Mathur
Headquarters — Gwalpahari, Gurugram Nepal declares ‘Pokhara’ as its official tourism capital
Founded — November 30, 2015 • The Nepalese government has declared Pokhara as its
official tourism capital. It is situated in the picturesque
Gandaki province.
France makes history by making abortion a fundamental
• Pokhara is known for its natural beauty and with this
right
title business activities, including discos, nightclubs,
• France made history by becoming the first nation to and live music venues in Pokhara, will remain open
enshrine the right to abortion in its constitution. all night.
• France has legally protected abortion since a 1974 law,
Key Points
but recent global events, particularly the US Supreme
Nepal’s capital — Kathmandu
Court’s decision to reverse the Roe v. Wade ruling,
prompted activists to secure explicit constitutional Nepal’s Prime Minister — Pushpa Kamal Dahal
protection in France. ‘Prachanda’
Iran launches Pars 1 satellite into orbit from Russia

• Iran successfully deployed the ‘Pars-I’ remote sensing and imaging satellite into orbit with the assistance of the
Russian Soyuz-2.1b launcher. It was completely developed by Iran domestically.
• The satellite took off from the Vostochny launch base in Russia, which is located approximately 8,000 kilometres.
east of Moscow.
Reliance and Disney sign mega deal to create ` 70,000 Key Points
crores media giant Kumar Mangalam Birla — Chairman Aditya Birla
• Global media giant Walt Disney Co. and billionaire Group
Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries announced a
Joint Venture to merge their media operations in India Goa-based airline FLY91 gets DGCA’s air operator permit
to create ` 70,000 crores media giant. • Goa-based regional airline FLY91 has received the
• The successful completion of this deal would create the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the regulator
biggest firm in the Indian media and entertainment Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
sector, with over 100 channels in several languages, • FLY91 will be the first Indian airline to use Goa’s
two leading OTT platforms and a viewer base of Manohar International Airport as its home base.
750 million across the country. • The regional airline carrier aims to enhance connectivity
• Nita Ambani will chair the joint venture while Uday across India’s tier 2 and tier 3 towns.
Shankar will be the Vice Chairperson. • The airline has already been allocated its first set of
• Reliance and its affiliates will hold a 63.16% stake routes under the government’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka
in the combined entity while Disney will have the Aam Naagrik) scheme, which aims to upgrade regional
remaining 36.84% shareholding. Of the 63.16% stake, airports and under-serviced air routes in the country.
RIL will hold 16.34% and Viacom 18 will hold 46.82%.
RIL’s TV18 owns a majority stake in Viacom 18. Key Points
MD and CEO of FLY91 — Manoj Chacko
• Reliance has also agreed to invest at closing ` 11,500
crores into the joint venture to grow the OTT business.
PhonePe launches made-in-India Indus Appstore to take
Aditya Birla Finance to merge with parent Aditya Birla on Google, Apple
Capital • PhonePe formally launched its mobile app marketplace,
• Aditya Birla Capital has decided to merge Aditya Indus Appstore, in an attempt to rival the Google Play
Birla Finance Ltd with itself. Aditya Birla Finance is its store and Apple’s App Store. PhonePe is a Walmart-
wholly-owned subsidiary. owned payments company.
• Indus Appstore will allow developers to employ video-
• Aditya Birla Capital is listed, while its wholly-owned
led app discovery and run custom-targeted ads in
Aditya Birla Finance is among the 15 upper-layer non-
Indian languages to differentiate itself from the global
bank lenders mandated by the RBI to go public by
competitors.
September 2025. Merging with the listed parent averts
• Indus Appstore hosts more than 2 Lakh apps across 45
the need for the subsidiary to be separately listed.
categories including brands such as Zomato, Myntra,
• The proposed merger will simplify the group’s Flipkart, and Dream11.
structure, transform Aditya Birla Capital into a
formidable operating Non-Banking Finance Company Key Points
(NBFC) from a holding company, consolidate business Co-founder & CEO — Sameer Nigam
and operational synergies, and reduce regulatory Co-founder & CTO — Rahul Chari
Headquarters — Bengaluru, Karnataka
complexities.
March 2024 13
Union Minister Hardeep Puri launches ETHANOL 100 YES Bank partners with the Indian Olympic Association
fuel for the Paris Olympics 2024
• Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister for Petroleum & • YES Bank partnered with the Indian Olympic
Natural Gas and Housing and Urban Affairs, launched Association (IOA) as the official banking partner for
ETHANOL 100, a revolutionary automotive fuel at Team India at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Indian Oil Retail. • As part of the collaboration, the bank launched the
• ETHANOL 100 fuel will be made available in campaign ‘Milkar Jitayengey’ and introduced the
Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, New Delhi, ‘YES Glory Debit Card,’ specially designed for India’s
and Tamil Nadu. This initiative is part of a broader Olympic athletes.
strategy to increase ethanol blending in petrol. • The bank also unveiled the ‘YES Glory’ savings account
• ETHANOL 100 stands as a cleaner, greener alternative proposition, extending benefits to athletes and their
to gasoline, boasting lower emissions of greenhouse immediate family members.
gases and pollutants, thus aiding in combating climate
Key Points
change and enhancing air quality in our communities.
YES Bank Headquarters — Mumbai, Maharashtra
• With its high-octane rating, typically between 100-105,
MD & CEO — Prashant Kumar
ETHANOL 100 proves ideal for high-performance
engines, ensuring improved efficiency and power Chairman — Sunil Mehta
output all while minimising environmental impact.
Adani ports acquires 95% stake in Gopalpur Port in
• With the launch of ETHANOL 100 fuel, the government
` 3,350 cr deal
is close to achieving the target of 20% ethanol blending
by 2025–26. • India’s largest port operator Adani Ports and Special
Economic Zone (APSEZ) has expanded its presence
Reliance acquires 26% Stake in Mahan Energen power on India’s coastline after buying 95% in Odisha’s
unit for ` 50 crores Gopalpur Port Ltd (GPL) at an enterprise value of
• In a landmark collaboration, Reliance Industries and ` 3,080 crores.
Adani Group, have joined forces to propel the nation’s • The Adani group company will purchase 56% from the
energy sector forward. Shapoorji Pallonji (SP) Group and 39% from Odisha
Stevedores Ltd, which will continue as the JV partner
• Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has acquired a
post the acquisition.
significant 26% stake Mahan Energen Ltd (MEL),
• The deal is expected to be completed in the first quarter
a wholly owned subsidiary of Adani Power Ltd. for
of 2024–25 (FY25). In addition to the enterprise value
` 50 crores.
of ` 3,080 crores, there is a contingent consideration of
• They have signed a pact to use the plant’s 500 MW of ` 270 crores estimated to be payable after 5.5 years,
electricity for captive use. taking the total to ` 3,350 crores.
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) elects CCI approves 100% acquisition of Lanco Amarkantak
India as co-chair of its Digital Innovation Board Power Limited by Adani Power Limited
• Dr Neeraj Mittal, Secretary, Department of • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has
Telecommunications, Government of India, was approved the 100% acquisition of Lanco Amarkantak
unanimously elected as co-chair of the Digital Power Limited by Adani Power Limited.
Innovation Board of ITU. • Adani Power Limited is engaged in the business of
• It was formed under the aegis of the Innovation and thermal power generation in India and operates its
Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development thermal power plants across multiple states in India.
and comprises Ministers and Vice Ministers of Telecom/ • The Lanco Amarkantak Power Limited is a part of
ICT of 23 Member Countries of ITU spanning Asia, the Lanco Group and is engaged in the business of
Europe, Africa, North and South America. thermal power generation in India.
• Lanco Amarkantak Power Limited is currently
Key Points
undergoing Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process
ITU Headquarters — Geneva, Switzerland
(CIRP) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code,
Secretary-General — Doreen Bogdan-Martin
2016 (IBC).
Key Points • The framework will enable exporters and importers to

invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies
CCI Chairperson — Ravneet Kaur
– the Indian rupee and the Indonesian rupiah.
Headquarters — New Delhi
• In turn, this will facilitate the development of a rupee–
rupiah foreign exchange market
GRID-INDIA is now a Miniratna Company
• Grid Controller of India Limited (GRID-INDIA) Key Points
achieved a significant milestone by being conferred RBI Governor — Shaktikanta Das
with the status of Miniratna Category-I Central Public Established — April 1, 1935
Sector Enterprise (CPSE). RBI Headquarters — Mumbai, Maharashtra
• This recognition was bestowed upon by the Ministry Bank of Indonesia — Perry Warjiyo
of Power. GRID-INDIA was established in 2009 and Governor
manages the All India synchronous grid through five
Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs) and the IRDAI approves eight principle-based regulations
National Load Despatch Centre (NLDC).
• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority
Key Points of India (IRDAI) has approved eight principle-based
Chairman and MD — S.R. Narasimhan regulations including the much-awaited Bima Sugam
marketplace.
Tata Sons to sell 0.6% stake in TCS for over ` 9,300 crores • The IRDAI (Bima Sugam – Insurance Electronic
• Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, Marketplace) Regulations, 2024, aims to establish
will be selling 2.34 crores shares or 0.65% equity of a digital public infrastructure named Bima Sugam
Tata Consultancy Services through a block deal for towards universalisation and democratisation of
` 9,362.3 crores. insurance as well as empowering and safeguarding
policyholders’ interests and achieve the vision of
• JP Morgan and Citigroup are joint book runners to the
‘Insurance for all by 2047’.
deal.
• The IRDAI (Corporate Governance for Insurers)
HDFC Bank receives RBI approval for sale of 90% stake Regulations, 2024 aims to establish a robust governance
in HDFC Credila framework for insurers, defining the roles and
• Private sector lender HDFC Bank has received approval responsibilities of the board and management.
from RBI for the divestment of a stake in HDFC Credila, • The IRDAI (Insurance Products) Regulations, 2024
the education loan subsidiary arm of HDFC Bank. merge six regulations into a unified framework aimed
• HDFC Bank will sell a 90% stake in HDFC Credila to at enabling insurers to swiftly respond to evolving
a consortium of private equity firms, including BPEA market demands, enhancing the ease of conducting
EQT and ChrysCapital group. business and boosting insurance penetration.
Key Points • The IRDAI (Registration and Operations of Foreign
Reinsurers Branches & Lloyd’s India) Regulations,
HDFC Chairman — Atanu Chakraborty
2024 consolidate two regulations and aims to foster the
CEO — Sashidhar Jagdishan
systematic development of the reinsurance sector in
Headquarters — Mumbai, Maharashtra India by promoting orderly growth and harmonising
the existing legal and regulatory framework.
RBI, Bank of Indonesia sign MoU promoting use of local
currencies for trade Key Points
• RBI and the Bank of Indonesia signed an MOU IRDAI’s Headquarters — Hyderabad, Telangana
establishing a framework to promote the use of local Chairperson — Debasish Panda
currencies for cross-border transactions.
• The MoU covers all current account transactions, The government allocates ` 6200 crores to boost Regional
permissible capital account transactions and any other Rural Banks (RRBs)
economic and financial transactions as agreed upon by • The central government has allocated ` 6212.03 crores
both countries. to Regional Rural Banks as a part of the recapitalisation
March 2024 15
scheme, aimed at supporting RRBs to maintain the Key Points

minimum prescribed capital-to-risk (weighted) assets Chief Executive Officer — Ritesh Shukla
ratio of 9%. of NIPL
• Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) are commercial banks MD & CEO of NPCI — Dilip Asbe
owned by the Indian government operating at Headquarters — Mumbai, Maharashtra
the regional level across various states. RRBs were
established in 1975 to provide basic banking and Paytm discontinues inter-company agreements with
financial services to rural areas, particularly to small Paytm Payments Bank
and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers, artisans, • Paytm and its associate entity Paytm Payments Bank Ltd
and small entrepreneurs. (PPBL) have ‘mutually agreed’ to discontinue various
inter-company agreements to reduce dependencies.
SIDBI secures the first green climate fund project worth
• The development comes after RBI’s recent crackdown
$120 million
on Paytm Payments Bank, barring it from accepting
• In a significant development aimed at bolstering new deposits and providing banking services after
India’s climate tech landscape, the Small Industries an extended deadline of March 15, for alleged non-
Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has successfully compliance.
secured $24.5 million from the Green Climate Fund • PPBL housed Paytm’s digital wallet business. It also
(GCF) for its debut anchored sustainability and climate- issued Unified Payments Interface (UPI) handles and
focused fund, the Avaana Sustainability Fund (ASF). FasTag toll-collection RFID stickers to Paytm’s customer
• This funding marks a significant milestone in climate base.
finance and sustainability initiatives within India. Key Points
• GCF is established within the framework of the United Paytm CEO and Founder — Vijay Shekhar Sharma
Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Headquarters — Noida, Uttar Pradesh
(UNFCCC).
PolicyBazaar establishes a wholly owned subsidiary
Key Points
‘PB Pay Private Limited’ for its expansion into payment
GCF’s Headquarters — Incheon, South Korea
aggregation services
SIDBI’s Headquarters — Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
• PolicyBazaar has formed a wholly-owned subsidiary
SIDBI’s Chairman — Sivasubramanian called ‘PB Pay Private Limited.’ to carry out its
and MD Ramann payments aggregator business.
• PB Pay Private Limited will be a Non-Banking Finance
NIPL and Fonepay Payment Service Ltd sign a pact for Company (NBFC) which will venture into the payment
facilitating cross-border transactions between India and aggregation business, catering to both domestic and
Nepal. cross-border markets, subject to approval from the
• NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) and Fonepay Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Payment Service Ltd have signed a pact for facilitating
Infibeam Avenues gets RBI’s authorisation for payment
cross-border transactions between India and Nepal. aggregator licence
• In its initial phase, this partnership allows Indian • India’s first listed AI-powered fintech company,
consumers to make instant, secure, and convenient Infibeam Avenues received the final authorisation
UPI payments at various business establishments in from the RBI to operate as a payment aggregator for
Nepal using UPI-enabled apps. Merchants affiliated its payment gateway brand, CCAvenue.
with the Fonepay Network can readily accept UPI • It was granted in-principle approval in October 2022.
payments from Indian customers. • In March 2020, the RBI introduced the PA framework,
• NPCI is the National Payments Corporation of India which necessitates payment gateways to secure
that operates retail payments and settlement systems an aggregator licence for acquiring merchants and
in India. NIPL is a wholly owned subsidiary of NPCI. delivering digital payment acceptance solutions.
Tata Power Solar completes India’s largest solar-BESS Numaligarh Refinery opens its first-ever overseas office
project in Chhattisgarh in Bangladesh
• Tata Power Solar Systems Limited (TPSSL), a subsidiary • Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) opened its liaison
of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), office in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This is the first overseas
completed India’s largest Solar and Battery Energy office of the NRL.
Storage Systems (BESS) project in Chhattisgarh. • This signals NRL’s commitment to international
• It comprises a 100 MW Solar PV Project and a 120 MWh expansion and stronger regional ties.
Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). • NRL is a division of Oil India Limited which is under
TPSSL secured the ` 945 crores project from SECI in the ownership of the Ministry of Petroleum and
December 2021, handling engineering, construction, Natural Gas, Government of India. Its headquarters
and commissioning. are in Golaghat, Assam, India
• The project anticipates generating 243.53 million
CCI approves the merger of a financial technology
energy units annually, cutting carbon emissions by
company, Garagepreneurs Internet Private Limited with
4.87 million tonnes over 25 years, aligning with India’s
the North East Small Finance Bank
renewable energy targets. Tata AutoComp Systems
Limited supplied the BESS, reflecting a commitment • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has
to excellence and collaboration. approved the merger of a financial technology
company, Garagepreneurs Internet Private Limited
Reliance to buy Paramount’s 13% stake in Viacom18 for with the North East Small Finance Bank.
` 4,286 crores • GIPL operates under the brand name ‘slice’ and focuses
• US film and television giant Paramount Global would on facilitating payments and credit products through
sell its stake in Indian media venture Viacom18 to digital means in India. It primarily focuses on enabling
Reliance. access to financial services for underbanked customers
• It will be a $517 million deal where Paramount would through affordable and transparent cost solutions and
transfer its entire 13% stake to Reliance. The completion structures.
of the transaction remains subject to regulatory • NESFB is a private sector small finance bank (SFB). It is
approval. headquartered in Guwahati, Assam and has branches
• Viacom18 is a subsidiary of TV18, owned by Reliance, in the North Eastern states (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam,
which means Reliance will therefore hold, directly or Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura,
indirectly, a majority stake in the joint venture. and Sikkim), and West Bengal.
DEFENCE NEWS
Rajnath Singh launches ADITI scheme to promote It also envisages to creation of a ‘Technology Watch
innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies Tool’ to bridge the gap between the expectations and
• Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched the requirements of the modern Armed Forces and the
Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem.
iDEX (ADITI) scheme to promote innovations in critical
Rajnath Singh inaugurates Indian Navy’s new
and strategic defence technologies.
headquarters in Delhi
• Under the scheme, start-ups are eligible to receive
a grant-in-aid of up to ` 25 crores for their research, • Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the
development, and innovation endeavours in defence Indian Navy’s new headquarters, Nausena Bhawan, at
technology. Delhi Cantt.
• The ADITI scheme worth ` 750 crores for the period • It is the first independent headquarters for the service
2023–24 to 2025–26 falls under the iDEX (Innovations in the capital. The navy was thus far operating from
for Defence Excellence) framework of the Department 13 different locations in the national capital region.
of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence. Key Points
• It aims to develop about 30 deep-tech critical and
Chief of Naval Staff — Admiral R. Hari Kumar
strategic technologies in the proposed timeframe.
March 2024 17
Andaman & Nicobar Command conducts first all-woman • The exercise was conducted in two phases – the
maritime surveillance mission harbour phase at Visakhapatnam followed by the Sea
• On the occasion of International Women’s day and the Phase at Kakinada.
40th anniversary of INAS 318, the Andaman & Nicobar • The exercise highlights the strong strategic bond
Command conducted a maiden all-women maritime between India and the US, focusing on sharing
surveillance mission. best practices and procedures for multinational
• INAS 318 is the Andaman & Nicobar Command’s Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
elite Naval Air Squadron, which has been continually operations.
engaged in surveillance since its commissioning on
PM Modi witnesses tri-service ‘Bharat Shakti’ exercise
March 8, 1984.
in Pokhran
• The occasion highlighted the critical role performed
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the
by women combatants in all aspects of the Naval Air
Arm, including pre-flight briefings, meteorological integrated tri-service ‘Bharat Shakti’ firepower and
briefings, medical check-ups, and Air Traffic Control manoeuvre exercise, in Pokhran, Rajasthan.
(ATC) briefings, all of which were conducted by female • It was a 50-minute mega exercise that demonstrated
officers. the prowess of indigenously manufactured defence
• Lt Cdr Shubhangi Swaroop, Lt Cdr Divya Sharma, and equipment of the three services.
Lt Vaishali Mishra, all based at INS Utkrosh, made up • ‘Bharat Shakti’ demonstrated the prowess of
the crew. The squadron began its journey with the indigenously manufactured defence equipment of the
induction of Islander aircraft, which were replaced in three services.
1999 by Dornier aircraft capable of conducting long-
range maritime surveillance utilising cutting-edge Key Points
Maritime Patrol Radars. Chief of the Defence Staff — General Anil Chauhan
First crash in 23 years of the history of Tejas fighter Chief of the Army Staff — General Manoj Pande
aircraft Chief of the Air Staff — Vivek Ram Chaudhari
• For the first time, the indigenous fighter jet LCA Tejas Chief of the Naval Staff — Admiral R. Hari Kumar
crashed in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
• This is the first-ever crash of the indigenous fighter in
Exercise Samudra Laksamana—India–Malaysia bilateral
23 years of its history which began with the first test
maritime exercise
flight in 2001.
• The bilateral exercise Samudra Laksamana between
• The Light Combat Aircraft Tejas is an indigenous
India and Malaysia was conducted at Visakhapatnam,
supersonic aircraft used by the Indian Airforce and
Andhra Pradesh.
Navy.
• It was the third edition of this exercise which had
• The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme was
harbour professional interactions followed by the
started by the Government of India in 1984 when they
operational phase at sea.
established the Aeronautical Development Agency
(ADA). • The exercise aims to strengthen bonds and enhance
• The LCA Tejas was developed by the Hindustan interoperability between the Indian and Royal
Aeronautics Limited. It succeeded the ageing Mig Malaysian Navy.
21 fighter jets. In 2003, the Light Combat Aircraft INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’, the first MH 60R Squadron
programme was named as ‘Tejas’ by the then Prime Commissioned, at INS Garuda, Kochi
Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• INAS 334 ‘Seahawks’, the Indian Navy’s first MH 60R
India–US tri-services conduct joint exercise ‘Tiger Squadron was commissioned in the presence of Adm
Triumph 2024’ R Hari Kumar, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), at INS
• In a major step towards military-to-military relations, Garuda, Southern Naval Command, Kochi.
India and the US conducted the second edition of the • This marked the formal induction of these versatile
Tri-Services India–US amphibious exercise ‘Ex Tiger and capable helicopters in the first MH 60R Naval Air
Triumph 2024’. Squadron.
Indian Navy commissions INS Jatayu at Minicoy Island, DRDO successfully flight tests Very Short-Range Air
Lakshadweep Defence System (VSHORADS)
• Indian Navy commissioned INS Jatayu at Minicoy Island, • DRDO conducted two successful flight tests of a Very
Lakshadweep. This milestone event strengthened the Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile
Indian Navy’s foothold in Lakshadweep Island while from a ground-based portable launcher off the coast of
extending capacity building, operational reach and Odisha from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur.
sustenance in the region. • These tests were carried out against high-speed
• It will augment connectivity with the mainland unmanned aerial targets under different interception
focusing towards the comprehensive development of scenarios.
the islands.
• VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System
• INS Jatayu will be functioning under the operational (MANPAD) designed and developed indigenously by
control of the Naval Officer in Charge (Lakshadweep), Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with
Southern Naval Command. other DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry Partners.
Union Defence Minister inaugurates ‘Chola’ Building At • VSHORADAS missile incorporates many novel
Naval War College, Goa technologies including miniaturised Reaction Control
• Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated System (RCS) and integrated avionics which have
the new Administrative & Training building at the been successfully proven during the tests.
Naval War College (NWC), Goa. Key Points
• The modern edifice, named the ‘Chola’, pays homage DRDO Chairman — Samir V. Kamat
to the mighty maritime empire of the Chola dynasty
of ancient India.
Name Designation
Daljit Singh Chaudhary Director General of National Security Guard (NSG)
Anurag Agarwal Head of Parliament Security
Brajesh Mehrotra Chief Secretary of Bihar
Suman Kumari First woman sniper of the Border Security Force (BSF).
Nayanthara Brand Ambassador of Slice
Manish Prasad President and Managing Director of SAP
Rajendra Prasad Goyal Chairman and MD of NHPC Limited (Additional Charge)
Devendra Jhajharia President of Paralympic Committee of India
Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora Pakistan’s First Sikh minister in Punjab
AS Rajeev Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission
Kishor Makwana Chairman of National Commission for Scheduled Castes
Deepak Ballani Director General, Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association
(ISMA)
Sanjay Kumar Singh Director (Projects) of NHPC Limited
Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu Election Commissioners
B Sairam Chairman and Managing Director of NCL
Sheetal Devi National Icon in the PwD category for the Election Commission of India.
Navneet Sehgal Chairman of Prasar Bharti Board
March 2024 19
Jaideep Hansraj President of ‘One Kotak’

Arvind Kapil MD & CEO of Poonawalla Fincorp
Rahul Singh Chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
Vinay Kumar India’s Ambassador to Russia
CP Radhakrishnan Additional Governor of Telangana
Kumar Venkatasubramanian CEO of P&G India
Sanjay Mukherjee Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal
Naveen Jindal President of the Indian Steel Association (ISA)
Mustafa Suleyman Head of Microsoft’s AI division
Mariam Mammen Mathew Chairperson of the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA)
Govind Dholakia Chairman of Surat Diamond Bourse
Abhay Thakur India’s envoy to Myanmar
Neeraj Chopra Brand Ambassador of Eveready
Luis Montenegro Prime Minister of Portugal
Hansha Mishra Director in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Kamal Kishore Assistant Secretary-General and Special Representative of the Secretary-
General for Disaster Risk Reduction
Mohammad Yousuf Wani Additional Judge of J&K and Ladakh High Court
Arnab Banerjee Chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA)
Pavan Davuluri Head of Microsoft’s Windows and Surface Teams
Bhupesh Sushil Rahul CMD of United India Insurance
Girija Subramanian Chairperson and MD of Agriculture Insurance Company (AIC)
Nidhu Saxena Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Bank of
Maharashtra (BoM)
Pankaj Dwivedi Executive Director (ED) at Union Bank of India (UBI)
Bassirou Diomaye Faye President of Senegal
Nayab Singh Saini Chief Minister of Haryana
Madhu Nair CEO of Union Asset Management Company Private Limited
Asif Ali Zardari Pakistan’s President
BOOKS AND AUTHORS
Books Authors
Swallowing the Sun Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri
The Gems of Indian Art Harish Khullar
The Conspiracy Gotabaya Rajapaksa
Phool Bahadur Originally written in Maghi by Jayanath Pati
Translated in English by Abhay K
From A Car Shed To The Corner Room & Beyond S. Raman
Code Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AI Madhumita Murgia
Name Occupation
Lakshmi Narayanan Seshu Actor
Lama Lobzang Buddhist Monk
Sadi Mohammad Renowned Rabindra Sangeet Singer
Laxminarayan Ramdas Indian Navy Chief
Kapildev Prasad Artisan
Arun Sharma Archaeologist
Aziz Qureshi Politician
Name Occupation
Paul Alexander Author and Lawyer
Daniel Kahneman Economists
Louis Gossett Jr. Actor
Brian Mulroney Politician
DAYS AND THEMES
Date Day Theme

March 1 Zero Discrimination Day To protect everyone’s health, protect everyone’s rights
March 1 Self-Injury Awareness Day (SIAD)
March 3 World Hearing Day Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a
reality for all
March 3 World Wildlife Day Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation
in Wildlife Conservation
March 4 National Safety Day Focus on Safety Leadership for Environmental, Social, and
Governance (ESG) Excellence
March 8 International Women’s Day Invest in women: Accelerate progress
March 10 CISF Raising Day
March 14 Pi Day Engineering Solutions for a Sustainable World
March 14 International Day of Action for Rivers Water for all
March 15 World Consumer Rights Day Fair and responsible AI for consumers
March 15 World Sleep Day Sleep Equity for Global Health
March 16 National Vaccination Day Vaccines for all
March 18 Ordnance Factory Day Operational Efficiency, Readiness, and Mission Accomplishment
in the Maritime Domain
March 2024 21
March 20 World Sparrow Day Sparrows: Give them a tweet-chance!, I Love Sparrows and
We Love Sparrows
March 20 International Day of Happiness
March 20 World Oral Health Day
March 21 World Forestry Day Forests and innovation: new solutions for a better world
March 21 World Down Syndrome Day End the stereotypes
March 21 World Poetry Day Standing on the Shoulders of Giants
March 21 International Day for the Elimination of A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and Development:
Racial Discrimination Implementation of the International Decade for People of
African Descent
March 22 World Water Day Water for Peace
March 23 World Meteorological Day At the frontline of climate action
March 24 World Tuberculosis (TB) Day Yes! We can end TB
March 24 International Day for the Right to the
Truth
India becomes the second-largest mobile phone producer • The mortality due to the infection remained the
globally same at 3.2 lakh. India’s TB mortality dropped from
• According to the India Cellular and Electronics 4.94 lakhs in 2021 to 3.31 lakhs in 2022.
Association (ICEA), India has become the second • India reached its 2023 target of initiating treatment in
largest mobile-producing country as locally made 95% of patients diagnosed with the infection.
mobile phone shipments crossed the 2 billion Shri Bhupender Yadav releases report on status of
cumulative mark in the 2014–2022 period, registering leopards in India
a 23% growth compounded annually.
• Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate
• India produced 2.45 billion units of mobile phones Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav released the report on
worth ` 4.1 Lakh Crores compared to ` 18,900 Crores in the status of leopards in India.
2014–15. • The fifth cycle leopard population estimation was
• China is the largest mobile phone producer globally. carried out by the National Tiger Conservation Authority
and Wildlife Institute of India, in collaboration with
India TB Report 2024
State Forest Departments, as part of the quadrennial
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released “Monitoring of Tiger, Co-predators, prey and their
the India TB Report 2024, which highlights that the habitat” exercise in tiger range States.
mortality rate due to Tuberculosis (TB) had declined • India’s leopard population is estimated at 13,874 (Range:
from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 23 per lakh 12,616 – 15,132) individuals, representing stable population
population in 2022. in comparison to the similar area being sampled in 2018
• The majority of the TB cases are still reported by the with 12852 (12,172–13,535) individuals.
government health centres, even as there has been an • Madhya Pradesh houses the largest (3907) population
uptick in notifications by the private sector. of leopards in the country followed by Maharashtra,
• Nearly 33% or 8.4 lakh of the 25.5 lakh cases reported Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
in 2023 came from the private sector. • The Tiger Reserves or sites with the highest leopard
• The estimated incidence of TB in 2023 increased slightly population are Nagarjunasagar Srisailam (Andhra
to 27.8 lakh from the previous year’s estimate of Pradesh), followed by Panna (Madhya Pradesh), and
27.4 lakh. Satpura (Madhya Pradesh).
Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport awarded the the happiest country in the world for the seventh
‘Best Airport’ in the Asia-Pacific region consecutive year. Afghanistan is the unhappiest
• Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport has occupied country.
the prestigious title of the ‘Best Airport’ in the Asia- • The report also delved into happiness trends among
Pacific region for the sixth consecutive year for its different age groups. Lithuania emerged as the
excellence. happiest country for individuals under 30, while
• Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) is the Denmark claims the top spot for those over 60.
airport operator. • The annual report evaluates happiness levels across
• The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Best Airport award more than 140 nations, considering factors such as
for 2023 in the category of over 40 Million Passengers social support, income, health, freedom, generosity,
Per Annum (MPPA) was conferred by the Airports and the absence of corruption.
Council International (ACI). • The report is published annually in celebration of the
International Day of Happiness on March 20.
India remains the world’s largest arms importer, and
Russia is its top supplier • Collaborators include the UN Sustainable Development
Solutions Network, Gallup, and the Oxford Wellbeing
• According to the data from the Stockholm International
Research Centre.
Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India continues to hold
the title of the world’s largest arms importer. Between Hurun Global Rich List 2024 – Mumbai overtakes Beijing
2019 and 2023, India accounted for a significant 9.8% to become Asia’s billionaire capital for the first time
of the total global arms imports. • According to Hurun Research Institute’s global rich
• During this period, Russia remained India’s main arms list, Mumbai is now the Asian billionaire capital with
supplier, accounting for 36% of its imports. However, 92 billionaires.
it is the first five-year period since 1960–1964 when • India added a staggering 94 new billionaires, the
deliveries from Russia (or the Soviet Union before highest of any nation except the United States, bringing
1991) made up less than half of India’s arms imports.
the total to 271 ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
• Nine out of the ten biggest arms importers in
• This surge is the highest since 2013.
2019–2023 were from Asia, Oceania, or the Middle East.
• The pharmaceutical sector in India leads the pack
• The United States is the world’s largest arms supplier
with 39 billionaires, followed by the automobile and
and saw a 17% growth in arms exports between
auto components industry (27), and the chemicals
2014–2018 and 2019–2023.
sector (24).
• Simultaneously, France emerged as the world’s second-
• Collectively, the wealth of Indian billionaires amounts
largest arms supplier, with its exports growing by 47%.
to a staggering $1 trillion, accounting for 7% of the
India ranked 108 on the UNDP Gender Inequality Index global billionaire wealth, emphasising the nation’s
with a score of 0.437 substantial economic influence.
• The Gender Inequality Index 2022 was released by the India Employment Report 2024
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in
• The Institute for Human Development (IHD) and
their Human Development Report 2023/2024.
International Labour Organisation (ILO) have released
• On the Gender Inequality Index (GII) 2022, India
a report titled- ‘India Employment Report 2024’, which
stands at rank 108 out of 193 countries with a score of
highlights that India’s youth continue to grapple with
0.437. India stood at rank 122 out of 191 countries with
soaring unemployment rates.
a score of 0.490 in the Gender Inequality Index 2021.
• The report is primarily based on analysis of data from
• The Gender Inequality Index (GII) is a composite
the National Sample Surveys and the Periodic Labour
measure that evaluates gender inequality across three
Force Surveys between 2000 and 2022, with a postscript
dimensions – Reproductive health, empowerment,
for 2023.
and labour market participation.
• India’s youth account for almost 83% of the unemployed
India ranks 126 on the World Happiness Report 2024 workforce and the share of youngsters with secondary
• India ranked 126 out of the 143 countries on the or higher education in the total unemployed has almost
2024 World Happiness Report. Finland was named doubled from 35.2% in 2000 to 65.7% in 2022.
March 2024 23
• The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Ministries and Departments of the Government of
Population Ratio (WPR) and the Unemployment Rate India over the past decade.
(UR) showed a long-term deterioration between 2000
India ranked 134 in the UN Human Development Index,
and 2018 but witnessed an improvement after 2019.
with an HDI of 0.644
• The improvement coincides with periods of economic
distress, both pre and post-Covid-19 except for two • According to the 2023/24 Human Development
peak Covid-19 quarters. Report titled, ‘Breaking the Gridlock: Reimagining
Cooperation in a Polarised World’, India ranked 134
World Air Quality Report 2023 – Begusarai in Bihar is the out of 193 countries with an HDI value of 0.644.
‘world’s most polluted city in 2023’ • India’s Human Development Index (HDI) score saw
• According to the World Air Quality Report 2023 by the an increase from 0.633 to 0.644 in 2022.
Swiss organisation IQAir, Bihar’s Begusarai topped the • The HDI is a composite index computed based on three
list as the ‘most polluted metropolitan area in 2023’, parameters — life expectancy, mean years of schooling
while Delhi has been identified as the capital city with and average incomes — in contrast to Gross Domestic
the ‘poorest air quality’ among global nations. Product (GDP), which is a gauge only of incomes or
• India ranked third worst out of 134 countries in terms output in an economy.
of average annual PM2.5 concentration. • In 2022, India saw improvements across all HDI
• IQAir’s annual report illustrates the international indicators — life expectancy, education and Gross
nature and inequitable consequences of the enduring National Income (GNI) per capita. Life expectancy rose
air pollution crisis. from 67.2 to 67.7 years, expected years of schooling
reached 12.6, mean years of schooling increased to
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh released the 6.57 and GNI per capita saw an increase from $6,542
compilation ‘Decade of Science’ to $6,951.
• The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge)
for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Department DHL Global Connectedness Report 2024
of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, • India ranked 62nd on the DHL Global Connectedness
Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh 2023 Index while it was ranked 67th in the 2022 Index.
released the compilation ‘Decade of Science’ under PM It is an annual report published since 2011 and is
Narendra Modi. commissioned by the German logistics company DHL
• The compilation ‘A decade of Science & technology and prepared by the New York University Stern School
Panorama for Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ was prepared by of Business.
‘The Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor’ to the • Singapore was the most globally connected country,
Government of India in collaboration with Foundation followed by the Netherlands and Ireland.
of Advancing Science and Technology (FAST) India and • A country’s connectedness to the world is measured
22 Line Ministries, Departments and Organisations. by the global movement of trade, capital, information,
• The report is a comprehensive collection of the and people. Based on these indicators, the report ranks
technological advancements made by various 181 countries and territories.
EVENTS
Startup Mahakumbh Event 2024 TiE, and Indian Venture and Alternate Capital
• Startup Mahakumbh was a three-day event showcasing Association, and was supported by the Department
India’s startup ecosystem, which began at Bharat for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Mandapam in New Delhi on March 18. • The Central Theme of the event was ‘Bharat Innovates’.
• This event aimed at connecting startups with a Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal inaugurates Digital
spectrum of inventors including venture capitalists, exhibition ‘Subhash Abhinandan based on the life of
investors and potential corporate partners. Subhash Chandra Bose
• It is an initiative of industry giants such as ASSOCHAM,
• The National Archives of India celebrated its 134th
Nasscom, Bootstrap Incubation & Advisory Foundation,
Foundation Day on March 11, 2024.
• On this occasion, Minister of State for Law & Justice preserved in the National Archives of India and can
(Independent Charge), Parliamentary Affairs and be accessed on Netaji Portal and Abhilekh Patal. In
Culture Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal launched a digital these records, letters written by him, diary of his father
exhibition ‘Subhash Abhinandan’, based on the life of Shri Janaki Nath Bose, documents of Azad Hind Fauj
Subhash Chandra Bose. and many government documents related to him are
• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s personal records are available.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
Sunil Bharti Mittal becomes the first Indian to get an honorary Knighthood from King Charles III
• Bharti Enterprises Chairman and founder Sunil Bharti Mittal became the first Indian citizen to be conferred an
honorary Knighthood by Britain’s King Charles III ‘for services to UK and India business relations’.
• He received a Knighthood of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) – one of the highest honours
conferred by a British monarch.
Oscars 2024
Category Winner
Best Actor Cillian Murphy for Oppenheimer
Best Actress Emma Stone for Poor Things
Best Picture Oppenheimer
Best Director Christopher Nolan for Oppenheimer
Best Song What Was I Made For? from Barbie
Best Supporting Actor Robert Downey Jr. for Oppenheimer
Best Supporting Actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph for The Holdovers
Best Animated Short War is Over
Best Animated Feature The Boy and the Heron
Best Original Screenplay Anatomy of a Fall
Best Adapted Screenplay American Fiction
Best Makeup and Hairstyling Poor Things
Best Cinematography Oppenheimer
Best Documentary (Short Subject) The Last Repair Shop
India receives ‘Measles and Rubella Champion’ Award • This accolade celebrates India’s unwavering
for exemplary efforts in measles and rubella disease commitment to public health and its outstanding
leadership in curbing the spread of these infectious
prevention
diseases among children.
• India was bestowed with the prestigious Measles and • It further recognises India for providing regional
Rubella Champion Award by The Measles and Rubella leadership to the measles and rubella elimination
Partnership at the American Red Cross Headquarters programme by using ‘measles as a tracer’ to strengthen
in Washington D.C., USA. routine immunisation under the country’s Universal
Immunisation Programme (UIP).
• The Measles and Rubella Partnership comprises a multi-
Ratan Tata was awarded PV Narasimha Rao Memorial
agency planning committee, including the American Award for philanthropy work
Red Cross, BMGF, GAVI, US CDC, UNF, UNICEF, and • Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Sons, was bestowed
WHO, all dedicated to reducing global measles deaths with the prestigious PV Narasimha Rao Memorial
and preventing rubella illness. Award for his outstanding philanthropic contributions.
March 2024 25
• The PV Narasimha Rao Memorial Award, named after organisation or individual’s ‘exceptional contributions’
the former Prime Minister of India, is an award of in the fields of the humanities, social sciences or arts in
recognition for individuals who have demonstrated Europe and the rest of the world.
exceptional dedication to social welfare and
humanitarian causes. PM Modi honoured with Bhutan’s ‘Order of the Druk
Gyalpo’ award
Dr. Sultan AL Jaber honoured for Sustainable Energy • Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the
Leadership Order of the Druk Gyalpo, Bhutan’s highest civilian
• Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the President of COP28 (the 2023 decoration, by His Majesty the King of Bhutan in a
United Nations Climate Change Conference), received public ceremony at the Tendrelthang, Thimphu.
the ‘CERAWeek Leadership Award for Building Global • He is the first foreign leader to be given this prestigious
Consensus towards a Sustainable Energy Future’ from award.
CERAWeek by S&P Global.
• The award was conferred to Prime Minister Modi
• This prestigious award recognised his extraordinary in recognition of ‘his outstanding contribution to
leadership in delivering the UAE Consensus, a the growth of India–Bhutan relations and for his
groundbreaking agreement that outlined concrete distinguished service to the Bhutanese nation and
pathways for countries and industries to transition to people.’
sustainable energy systems and keep global warming
within 1.5°C. Bina Agarwal and James Boyce awarded the first ‘Global
Inequality Research Award’
Krystyna Pyszkova from Czech Republic crowned the
Miss World 2024 • The 2024 GiRA prize is jointly awarded to Bina Argawal
and James K. Boyce for their groundbreaking work in
• Krystyna Pyszkova from the Czech Republic was the field of social and environmental inequalities.
crowned as the new Miss World 2024. Miss Lebanon
• The World Inequality Lab (WIL) and Sciences Po’s
Yasmina Zaytoun was named the first runner-up.
Centre for Research on Social Inequalities (CRIS)
• The ceremony took place at the Jio World Cinema in have joined forces for the first edition of the Global
Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Inequality Research Award (or GiRA), which aims
Michel Talagrand awarded the 2024 Abel Prize to recognize every two years researchers from all
• The Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters disciplines who have made a significant contribution
awarded the Abel Prize for 2024 to Michel Talagrand to the understanding of global inequalities.
of the French National Centre for Scientific Research Dr. Pradeep Mahajan honoured with Maharashtra
(CNRS), Paris, France. Bhushan Award 2024
• He received the prestigious prize ‘for his groundbreaking • Dr. Pradeep Mahajan, the Founder and CMD of StemRx
contributions to probability theory and functional Hospital and Research Centre, and StemRx Bioscience
analysis, with outstanding applications in mathematical Solutions Pvt Ltd, received the esteemed Maharashtra
physics and statistics.’ Bhushan Award 2024.
Riken Yamamoto Wins 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize • This recognition celebrates his pioneering work in
• Japanese architect and social advocate, Riken Yamamoto, regenerative medicine, highlighting his significant
was selected as the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize contributions to the field.
Laureate. PM Narendra Modi presents the first-ever National
• It is the highest international award in the field, and is Creators Award
sometimes referred to as the ‘Architecture Nobel’.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented the first-ever
• The Pritzker Architecture Prize was instituted by Jay National Creators Award at Bharat Mandapam in New
A Pritzker, the late founder of the Hyatt Hotels chain, Delhi.
and his wife Cindy, in 1979.
• It is an effort to recognise excellence and impact
Amitav Ghosh awarded prestigious Erasmus Prize 2024 across domains, including storytelling, social change
• Indian writer Amitav Ghosh won the Erasmus Prize advocacy, environmental sustainability, education, and
2024 for his writings on the planetary crisis and climate gaming among others.
change. • The award is envisioned as a launchpad for using
• The Praemium Erasmianum Foundation in the creativity to drive positive change. It was presented
Netherlands awards the prize annually for an across 20 categories.
Name Award
Ranveer Allahbadia (BeerBiceps) Disruptor of the Year
Kabita Singh (Kabita’s Kitchen) Best Creator in Food Category
Drew Hicks, Kili Paul, Cassandra Mae Spittmann Best International Creator
Jaya Kishori Best Creator for Social Change
Kamiya Jani Favourite Travel Creator
RJ Raunac (Bauaa) Most Creative Creator – (Male)
Shraddha Jain Most Creative Creator (Female)
Nishchay Best Creator in Gaming Category
Aridaman Best Micro Creator
Ankit Baiyanpuria Best Health and Fitness Creator
Aman Gupta Celebrity Creator
Keerthika Govindasamy Best Storyteller
Pankhti Pandey Favourite Green Champion
Gaurav Chaudhary (Technical Guru ji) Best Creator in Tech Category
Malhar Kalambe Swachhta Ambassador
Jahnvi Singh Heritage Fashion Icon
Naman Deshmukh Best Creator in Education Category
Maithili Thakur Cultural Ambassador of the Year
Abhi and Niyu New India Champion Award
Lakshay Dabas Most Impactful Agri creator
Piyush Purohit Best Nano creator award
SPORTS NEWS
India’s first Indoor Athletics and Aquatic Centre reforms in the recruitment, promotion, and incentives
inaugurated at Kalinga Stadium, Odisha framework for athletes.
• In a major boost to Indian athletics and swimming, • Under the revamped regulations, individuals who excel
Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik inaugurated India’s in events such as the Khelo India Youth Games (for
first Indoor Athletics Centre and Indoor Aquatic Centre participants aged 18 and above), Khelo India Winter
at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Games, Khelo India Para Games, and Khelo India
• He also laid the foundation stone for the Indoor Diving University Games will now qualify for government
Centre. employment opportunities.
• This world-class facility will be a training ground • Furthermore, achievers in the School Games Federation
for the Odisha Reliance Foundation Athletics High of India will also maintain their eligibility for such
Performance Centre, which was established in positions.
association with Reliance Foundation, and has been • Additionally, individuals who have represented the
producing young athletics champions. nation or a state in either international or national
events, or demonstrated success in junior national
Khelo India medal winners eligible for government jobs tournaments, will be eligible for employment.
• The Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT) • The Secretaries of National Sports Federations (for
of the Government of India, in collaboration with the international events), Secretaries of State Associations
Department of Sports, has introduced comprehensive (for national competitions) and Deans or Sports Officers
March 2024 27
of Universities (for inter-university tournaments), The third edition of North-East Games 2024 begins in
among others, will have the authority to issue such Nagaland
certificates validating the eligibility of sportspersons • The third edition of the North East Games 2024 kick-
for recruitment. started with a glittering opening ceremony at the
Khelo India Rising Talent Identification (KIRTI) Regional Centre for Sporting Excellence, Sovima,
programme launched Nagaland.
• Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri • The games will be held across Chumoukedima,
Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated the unique Khelo Dimapur, and Kohima in 12 venues.
India Rising Talent Identification (KIRTI) programme. Mumbai wins Ranji Trophy 2024 after defeating Vidarbha
• It is aimed at school children between 9 and 18 years
• Mumbai won the Ranji Trophy 2024 after beating
old and is a nationwide scheme.
Vidarbha by 169 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in
• It has two main objectives – to hunt talent from every Mumbai.
nook and corner of the country and to use sports
• This was their 42nd Ranji Trophy title which they
as a tool to curb addiction towards drugs and other
won after eight years. Ajinkya Rahane is the captain
gadgetry distractions.
of Mumbai.
Virat Kohli becomes the first Indian to score 12,000 T20
runs Santosh Trophy 2023–24 – National Football Championship
• Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has become the first • In the final of the Santosh Trophy 2023–24, Services
Indian cricketer to score 12,000 runs in the T20 format. beat Goa by a goal to lift the trophy.
• He accomplished this remarkable feat during the • This is the seventh time they have won the championship.
opening match of the 2024 Indian Premier League Shafeel P.P scored the winning goal.
(IPL) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Jacintha Kalyan is India’s first female pitch curator
Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram
Stadium. • Jacintha Kalyan has been named as India’s first female
pitch curator.
PR Sreejesh and Camila Caram appointed Co-Chairs of • She is overseeing pitch preparations for the Women’s
FIH Athletes Committee Premier League at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in
• The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has Bengaluru.
appointed former Indian men’s hockey team captain • This marks a significant milestone for gender inclusivity
and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and Chile’s Camila Caram in the sport.
as co-chairs of the FIH Athletes Committee.
Sathiyan Gnanasekaran makes history in Beirut, wins
MS Dhoni becomes the first wicketkeeper to record 300
first-ever WTT Feeder title
dismissals in T20 cricket
• Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, a renowned Indian table
• Mahendra Singh Dhoni continued to script history
tennis player, has made history by becoming the first
as the legendary wicketkeeper batter registered a
Indian to win the men’s singles title at a WTT Feeder
big record during the Indian Premier League match
Series event in Beirut, Lebanon.
between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.
• He became the first wicketkeeper to execute 300 Anurag Thakur inaugurates Sansad Khel Mahakumbh
dismissals in the T20Is. 3.0 in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh
Sharath Kamal will be India’s flag bearer at Paris • Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated the
Olympics 2024 Sansad Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 at the Luhnu Cricket
Ground in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh.
• Ace table tennis player Sharath Kamal will be the
Indian team’s flagbearer for the upcoming Paris 2024 • Village or Panchayat level teams will participate in all
Olympics. sports disciplines and the third edition will see the
participation of 75,000 players.
• He is ranked no. 88 in the world and has won the
national table tennis championship a record ten • The MP Khel Mahakumbh has become the biggest
times. He is a three-time bronze medalist at the World platform for players from the Hamirpur parliamentary
Championships. constituency to showcase their talent.
Tiger Woods won the highest United States Golf • The event hosted 20 teams from nations including
Association (USGA) honour – Bob Jones Award Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Iraq, Tajikistan,
• Tiger Woods received the Bob Jones Award, the highest Kazakhstan, and Indonesia.
honour from the USGA that recognises his commitment Sai Praneeth announces retirement from international
to sportsmanship and respect for golf ’s traditions. badminton
• Woods was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame
• World Championships bronze medallist B Sai Praneeth
in 2022, and he received the Presidential Medal of
announced his retirement from his international
Freedom from Donald Trump in 2019.
badminton career to pursue a coaching career in the
• Woods is a nine-time USGA champion, winning three USA.
straight U.S. Junior Amateurs, followed by three
• He decided to quit after battling nagging injuries since
straight U.S. Amateurs, and then the U.S. Open at
the Tokyo Games, ending a successful career during
Pebble Beach (2000), Bethpage Black (2002) and Torrey
which he won the 2017 Singapore Open.
Pines (2008).
• He will join as head coach of Triangle Badminton
Paul Pogba banned for four years for doping Academy in the US.
• Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has been suspended Spain wins the first UEFA Women’s Nations League
for four years from football due to doping allegations.
• Spain won the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations
• He tested positive for testosterone, leading to his
League title after beating France 2-0. This holds
provisional suspension in September. He has the
importance as it is Spain’s first-ever win over France
option to appeal against the decision at the Court of
in senior women’s football.
Arbitration for Sport, based in Switzerland.
• Aitana Bonmati was named as the MVP (Most Valuable
Puneri Paltan emerges as the Pro Kabaddi League Season Player) of the Finals tournament.
10 champions
Hockey India Awards: Hardik and Salima win Player of
• The Puneri Paltan won the Pro Kabaddi League Season the Year awards
10 title by defeating the Haryana Steelers.
• Salima Tete received the Hockey India Balbir Singh
• Pankaj Mohite was named as the player of the match
Senior Award for Player of the Year 2023 in the
in the final. Mohammadreza Shadloui of Puneri Paltan
women’s category, and Hardik Singh won the award
was named the top defender.
in the men’s category.
Asian River Rafting Championship 2024 • Additionally, Olympian and World Cup winner Ashok
• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Kumar was honoured with the Major Dhyan Chand
Singh Sukhu inaugurated the Asian River Rafting Lifetime Achievement Award 2023.
Championship near Basantpur on the Sutlej River near • The 2023 Hockey India annual awards were presented
the Ridge Shimla. at a glamorous ceremony in New Delhi.
CURRENT AFFAIRS
APRIL 2024
CONTENTS
 Lok Sabha Elections 2024 3
 National News 3
 Defence News 15
 Events 24
 Sports News 26
April 2024 3
LOK SABHA ELECTIONS 2024
Punjab launched Booth Raabta website • They were assisted in their language by an interpreter
• Punjab’s Malerkotla district has launched the ‘Booth known as ‘Mathiyas’ (a Nicobari tribal youth).
Raabta’ website to increase voter involvement and • According to the 2011 Census data, there are 229
facilitate access to election-related information. individuals belonging to the Shompen tribe.
• The ‘Booth Raabta’ website provides simple access to
Key Points
critical election-related information, giving voters the
tools that will help them make informed decisions. The Capital of Andaman — Port Blair
website allows young voters to download certificates and Nicobar
and provides a forum for voters to assess polling Lt. Governor — Devendra Kumar Joshi
places, which increases openness and accountability
in the voting process. IIT Guwahati unveils 3D printed dummy ballot unit
• This initiative was launched by District Election Officer • The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral
and Deputy Commissioner of Malerkotla, Dr. Pallavi.
Participation Cell (SVEEP) of Kamrup Election District
Key Points in Assam has partnered with the Indian Institute
Punjab’s Capital — Chandigarh of Technology Guwahati to develop an innovative
Chief Minister — Bhagwant Mann 3D-printed dummy ballot unit.
Governor — Banwarilal Purohit • The 3D-printed dummy ballot unit aims to dispel any
apprehensions, anxiety or uncertainties associated with
People of Andaman’s vulnerable Shompen tribe vote for the voting process. It will offer a hands-on experience
the first time and foster maximum voter participation.
• Seven members of the Shompen tribe, Particularly • The dummy ballot unit is fabricated from PLA
Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Great Nicobar (polylactic acid), a biodegradable and eco-friendly
Islands exercised their voting rights for the first time material derived from corn starch. This device was
for the lone Lok Sabha seat in the union territory. designed and manufactured within 48 hours.
• They exercised their voting rights at a polling station • This initiative marks the first-of-its-kind endeavour in
411 named ‘Shompen Hut’ built inside the forest staff India by the IIT Guwahati team to develop a 3D-printed
quarters. dummy ballot unit.
NATIONAL NEWS
Ministry of Commerce and Industry asks e-commerce e-commerce platforms to ensure that dairy-based
websites to remove Bournvita from health drinks category beverage mixes, cereal-based beverage mixes, or malt-
• The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has asked all based beverage mixes like Bournvita are not listed
e-commerce websites to remove drinks and beverages, under the ‘health drinks’ or ‘energy drinks’ categories.
including Bournvita from the health drinks category • The term ‘Energy’ Drinks is permitted to be used
on their portals. only on the products licensed under Food Category
• The National Commission for Protection of Child System (FCS) 14.1.4.1 and 14.1.4.2 (carbonated and
Rights (NCPCR) after its inquiry under Section 14 of non-carbonated water-based flavoured drinks),
the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act standardised under sub-regulation 2.10.6 (2) of
(CRPC) 2005, concluded that there is no ‘health drink’ the Food Product Standards and Food Additives
defined under the Food Safety and Standards Act Regulations 2011 (Caffeinated Beverage).
(FSSA) 2006, rules and regulations. • Further, ‘health drinks’ are not defined anywhere
• The order comes days after the Food Safety and under the FSS Act 2006 or rules/regulations made
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) had also advised thereunder.
President of India launches India’s first home-grown

Key Points
gene therapy for cancer
FSSAI’s Headquarters — New Delhi
• The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, launched
FSSAI’s Chairperson — Apurva Chandra
India’s first home-grown gene therapy for cancer at
FSSAI’s CEO — Ganji Kamala V. Rao
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay.
Centre forms a six-member panel to examine issues faced • India’s first CAR-T cell therapy was developed through
by the queer community collaboration between the IIT Bombay, the Tata
Memorial Hospital and industry partner ImmunoACT.
• The Indian government has constituted a six-member
committee to examine various issues related to the • India has successfully made CAR-T cell therapy
queer community. accessible and affordable. This therapy has been
• Rajiv Gauba, the Union Cabinet Secretary will head available in developed nations for some time, but
the committee. it is extremely costly and beyond the reach of most
• The panel will examine measures that can be taken patients.
to ensure there is no discrimination against LGBTQ+
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi inaugurates Param Vir
people in access to goods and services and measures that
Chakra Garden
can be taken to ensure that the LGBTQ+ community
does not face any threat of violence, harassment or • Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi inaugurated the
coercion. Param Vir Chakra Garden and Aiyyam exhibition at
• The development follows months after the Supreme Kanchi Mahaswamy Vidya Mandir in Tambaram.
Court refused to grant legal recognition to the same- • The garden showcases the history and statues of the
sex marriages and referred the decision to Parliament. 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, India’s highest military
decoration for valor.
Delhi High Court appoints former judge Justice Najmi
Waziri to head the committee on protection of forests Key Points
Tamil Nadu’s Capital — Chennai
• Delhi High Court has appointed its former judge,
Justice Najmi Waziri, as the chairperson of an internal Tamil Nadu’s — R. N. Ravi
departmental committee of city officials dealing with Governor
the protection of forests in the national capital. Tamil Nadu’s — M.K. Stalin
• Justice Waziri, known as the ‘green judge’ of Delhi for Chief Minister
his efforts to enrich the greenery of the national capital
SJVN inaugurates India’s first Multi-purpose Green
by asking litigants to plant 3.7 lakh trees in several
cases. Hydrogen Pilot Project
• The committee will ensure that concrete steps are • SJVN Limited has inaugurated India’s first Multi-
taken to protect, preserve, reclaim and enhance both purpose Green Hydrogen Pilot Project at its 1,500 MW
protected and deemed forests. Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station (NJHPS) in Jhakri,
Himachal Pradesh.
Lakshmana Tirtha River dries up due to shortage of
rainfall • The green hydrogen produced will be used for the
High-Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF) coating facility at
• The Lakshmana Tirtha River in the Kodagu District,
NJHPS, as well as for generating electricity through a
Karnataka has dried up due to severe drought
25 kW capacity fuel cell.
conditions and intense heat.
• The river originates from dense forests in Kutta of • The project will produce 14 kilograms of green
Ponnampet taluk. It stretches 180 km before merging hydrogen daily during 8 hours of operation.
into the Cauvery River through Piyapatna and Hunsur • The hydrogen produced will be stored at a pressure
in Mysore, eventually flowing into the Krishna Raja of 30 bars, in six storage tanks, with a total storage
Sagara (KRS) reservoir. capacity of 12 m3.
April 2024 5

Chairman & — Nand Lal Sharma PTI’s Headquarters — New Delhi
MD of SJVN PTI’s Chairman — K.N. Shanth Kumar
Headquarters — Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Meta’s Chairman — Mark Zuckerberg
Owner — Government of India & CEO
(59.92%) and Government
of Himachal Pradesh Meta’s Headquarters — California, U.S.
(26.85%)
India’s First AI-based film ‘IRAH’ trailer launched in
Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC) adopts a Mumbai
new logo and motto • The trailer and song launch of India’s first Hindi film
• The Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC) has focused on Artificial Intelligence, “IRAH,” took place
adopted a new logo and motto. in Mumbai. The movie showcases the misuse of AI
• The logo’s shape resembles lotus petals, representing the technology, shedding light on its negative aspects.
resilient nodal institution for maintaining historical • ‘IRAH’ features Rohit Bose Roy, Rajesh Sharma, Karishma
records. Kotak, and Rakshith Bhandarry in prominent roles.
• The central element of the logo is the Sarnath pillar,
India aims to generate 1 lakh MW of nuclear power by
evoking India’s ancient heritage. The logo’s brown
2047
color emphasizes IHRC’s mission to preserve, study,
and honor India’s historical records. • India aims to produce 100,000 MW of nuclear power by
2047, a massive increase from the current production
• The motto of IHRC is ‘Where history is preserved for
of over 8,000 MW.
the future.’ It emphasises IHRC’s role in identifying,
collecting, cataloguing and maintaining historical • A vision document for ‘Amrit Kaal’ is being prepared
by the Department of Atomic Energy which envisages
documents, manuscripts, and other historical sources.
reaching a nuclear capacity of about 100 GW by 2047.
• Shaurya Pratap Singh designed the logo and motto.
• The breeder reactors would contribute 3 GW of
• IHRC is an apex advisory body on archival matters and
nuclear power, while 17.6 GW would come from light
was established in 1919.
water reactors built with international cooperation and
• It acts as an all-India forum of creators, custodians and another 40–45 GW would come from the pressurised
users of records to advise the Government of India on heavy water reactors.
managing records and their use for historical research.
• The Union Minister of Culture heads IHRC. Excavation of 5,200-year-old Harappan civilisation
settlement
Meta partners with PTI to expand fact-checking program
• Recently, archaeologists from Kerala University
in India unearthed a 5,200-year-old Harappan settlement at
• Social media giant Meta collaborated with the Press Padta Bet, around 1.5 km away from Juna Khatiya, an
Trust of India (PTI) under its third-party fact-checking Early Harappan necropolis, in Kutch district, Gujarat.
program in India. • The expedition uncovered crucial evidence shedding
• The partnership will enable PTI to identify, review, and light on the cultural formation of Early Harappan
rate content as misinformation across Meta platforms. settlements in the region.
• Meta’s fact-checking program in India includes • The excavation unearthed evidence of a Harappan
partnerships with independent fact-checking settlement dating back to circa 3200 BCE to 1700 BCE,
organizations to help users identify and prevent the including circular and rectangular structures made of
spread of misinformation on its platforms. locally available sandstone and shale.
• Now Meta has 12 fact-checking partners in India, • Unique pottery traditions, semi-precious stone beads,
making it the country with the most third-party fact- terracotta spindle whorls, copper, lithic tools and
checking partners globally across Meta. animal bone fragments were among the finds.
Glass Skywalk Bridge inaugurated in Chitrakoot, Uttar • The government is promoting alternate fertilisers
Pradesh like nano-liquid urea and nano liquid Di-Ammonium
• The first glass skywalk bridge in Uttar Pradesh was Phosphate (DAP).
inaugurated at the enchanting Tulsi (Shabari) Waterfall • The urea imports fell to 7.58 million tonnes in 2022–23
in Chitrakoot. The site is the birthplace of Goswami from 9.136 million tonnes in the previous year.
Tulsidas in Rajapur and the presence of Lord Shri Three new archaeological discoveries unveiled in
Ram’s shrine makes it a popular tourist destination. Telangana
• The bridge is designed to resemble Lord Rama’s bow
• A team of archaeologists has claimed to have discovered
and arrow, constructed in the Kodand forest area at
a unique Iron Age megalithic site at Ooragutta near
a cost of ` 3.70 crore. The arrow’s length towards the
Bandala village in SS Tadvai mandal of Mulugu district,
abyss measures 25 metres and the width of the bow Telangana.
between the two pillars spans 35 metres.
• Among these discoveries are over 200 megalithic
• The bridge is engineered to withstand a load capacity monuments nestled within dense forests, an
of 500 kg per square metre, ensuring visitors’ safety exceptional Iron Age megalithic site displaying unique
and security. architectural styles, and two rock art sites revealing
• The Forest and Tourism Department, along with the ancient artistic expressions.
Pawan Sut Construction Company of Ghazipur, led • The team comprised K.P. Rao and Ch Praveen Raju.
the construction of the Glass Skywalk Bridge. Last year, • These findings underscore the significance of
the state government renamed it Tulsi Water Falls. Telangana’s rich heritage and its integral role in
shaping India’s historical narrative.
ISKCON collaborates with NSDC for skill development
Key Points
• The National Skill Development Corporation
(NSDC) and the International Society for Krishna Telangana’s Governor — CP Radhakrishnan
Consciousness (ISKCON) have partnered to provide Chief Minister — Anumula Revanth Reddy
vocational training to tribal and underprivileged youth Capital — Hyderabad
across multiple states.
PM Modi inaugurates 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan
• The strategic partnership focuses on skilling youth from
Mahotsav in Delhi
tribal and marginalised communities in Uttar Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the
with plans to expand to other regions in future. 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav at
Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. He also released a
• The participants will receive industry-recognised
commemorative stamp and coin on the occasion of
certifications via the Skill India Digital Hub platform,
Mahavir Jayanti.
enhancing their employability prospects.
• Mahavir Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Lord
• Upon completion of the training programmes,
Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
the skilled youth will have access to employment
opportunities within the country. • Bhagwan Mahavir illuminated the path of peaceful
co-existence and universal brotherhood through
Key Points Jain principles like Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya
(Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya
NSDC’s Headquarters — New Delhi
(Chastity) and Aparigraha (Non-Attachment).
CEO — Ved Mani Tiwari • Jains celebrate five Kalyanak’s (major events) of
every Tirthankar including Mahavir Swami Ji:
India to stop importing urea by end of 2025 Chyavana/Garbha (Conception) Kalyanak; Janma
• By the end of 2025, India will stop importing urea as a (Birth) Kalyanak; Diksha (Renunciation) Kalyanak;
massive push for domestic manufacturing has helped Kevaljnana (Omniscience) Kalyanak and Nirvana
bridge the gap between supply and demand. (Liberation/Ultimate Salvation) Kalyanak.
April 2024 7
Central government grants NOC to rename eight Amethi Tamil Nadu conducts Nilgiri Tahr Survey with IUCN
railway stations Observer
• The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has • The Tamil Nadu government conducted a three-day
synchronised survey of the Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus
approved the renaming of eight railway stations in
hylocrius) to estimate the population of the Tahrs.
Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh. This move aims to
• Nilgiri Tahr is the state animal of Tamil Nadu.
strengthen the connection between the railways and
• Tamil Nadu has collaborated with the World Wide
the region’s cultural heritage.
Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Wildlife Institute
• The MHA granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) of India for population estimation. An observer from
to the Uttar Pradesh government’s proposal submitted the International Union for Conservation of Nature
in February 2024. This paves the way for renaming (IUCN) also participated in the exercise.
stations like Kasimpur Halt to Jais City and Jais to Guru • While the bounded-count method was used in all
Gorakhnath Dham. the areas, the double observer method was adopted
additionally in large contiguous landscapes having
Key Points
a major population in two areas like Grass Hills
Union Home Minister — Amit Shah
National Park and Mukurthi National Park and one
Uttar Pradesh’s — Yogi Adityanath
block in Silent Valley National Park and two blocks in
Chief Minister
Eravikulam National Park.
Governor — Anandiben Patel
• The Nilgiri Tahr is the only mountain ungulate in
Capital — Lucknow southern India amongst the 12 species present in India.
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ norm implemented NTPC Ltd. launches new edition of Girl Empowerment
• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Mission
has enforced the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ rule since • NTPC Limited has launched the latest edition of Girl
April 1, 2024. Empowerment Mission (GEM), its flagship Corporate
• The ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ concept aims to deter Social Responsibility initiative.
the practice of using a single FASTag for multiple • The programme aligns with the Government of India’s
vehicles or associating multiple FASTags with one Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative and aims to tackle
vehicle. gender inequality by nurturing girls’ imaginations and
• NHAI’s decision to implement the ‘One Vehicle, One fostering their ability to explore opportunities. The
FASTag’ policy stems from concerns over the misuse of workshop focuses on health, hygiene, safety, fitness,
FASTags. sports and yoga.
• Reports indicated that vehicles were being equipped • The GEM was initiated as a pilot project in 2018 with
with multiple FASTags or FASTags were being issued just three locations and 392 participants, has flourished
without adhering to the Reserve Bank of India’s into a nationwide movement.
(RBI) Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements.
Additionally, there were instances of FASTags not being Key Points
properly affixed to the vehicle’s windscreen, leading to
NTPC’s Chairman & MD — Gurdeep Singh
delays at toll plazas and inconveniencing other users
of National Highways. Headquarters — New Delhi
Key Points Union Health Ministry launches myCGHS iOS app

NHAI’s Chairman — Santosh Kumar Yadav
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has
Headquarters — Delhi
launched the myCGHS app for the iOS devices.
• It empowers the Central Government Health Scheme RuPay launches ‘Link it, Forget it’ campaign at IPL 2024
(CGHS) beneficiaries with convenient access to to promote credit cards on UPI.
essential healthcare features right at their fingertips.
• The ‘RuPay – Link it, Forget it’ campaign was launched
• This initiative aligns with the government’s vision by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
of leveraging technology to enhance the quality and
during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.
accessibility of healthcare services.
• The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about
• The app was developed by the technical teams of the
RuPay Credit cards, which can be seamlessly linked to
National Informatics Centre (NIC) Himachal Pradesh
a UPI ID, enabling secure and convenient payments.
and NIC Health Team.
Key Points
• The app features security features like two-factor
authentication and functionality of mPIN ensuring the NPCI Headquarters — Mumbai, Maharashtra
confidentiality and integrity of users’ data. MD & CEO — Dilip Asbe
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Zimbabwe launches new currency ZiG in an attempt to Italy, Japan, the UK and the US. Additionally, the
resolve money crisis European Union (EU) is a ‘non-enumerated member.’
• Zimbabwe has launched a new currency, Zimbabwe All the G7 countries are IMF-advanced economies.
Gold (ZiG), which is backed by the country’s gold IMF approves disbursal of $1.1 Billion loan tranche to
reserves. Pakistan
• The ZiG was introduced electronically in early April, • The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) executive
but people can now use banknotes and coins. board has given the green light for a USD 1.1 billion
• The government had previously floated various ideas loan tranche for Pakistan, signalling the conclusion of
to replace the Zimbabwe dollar, including introducing the second bailout package.
gold coins to stem inflation and even trying out a
• This marks the third and final installment of a USD 3
digital currency.
billion standby arrangement with the IMF.
• The ZiG is the sixth currency Zimbabwe has used since
• Last month, Pakistan and the IMF reached a staff-level
the spectacular 2009 collapse of the Zimbabwe dollar
amid hyperinflation of 5 billion%, one of the world’s agreement on the final review of the USD 3 billion
bailout package.
worst currency crashes to date.
• The country has already received two tranches totalling
Key Points USD 1.9 billion, with USD 1.2 billion disbursed in July
Zimbabwe’s Capital — Harare and an additional USD 700 million in January 2024.
President — Emmerson Mnangagwa
Key Points
G7 discusses Coal Phase-Out by 2035 IMF’s Headquarters — Washington DC, US
• The Group of Seven (G7) developed economies, in the Managing Director — Kristalina Georgieva
recent meeting of its Climate, Energy, and Environment
Pakistan’s Capital — Islamabad
Ministerial, decided to phase out unabated coal during
Prime Minister — Shehbaz Sharif
the first half of the 2030s by 2035.
• This decision sets the tone for the upcoming global Kuwait launches the first Hindi radio broadcast
dialogues on energy transition at COP29 (Conference
• Kuwait began its first-ever Hindi radio broadcast
of the Parties) in Baku and the Group of Twenty (G20)
with its Ministry of Information launching a Hindi
in Brazil later this year. programme on Kuwait Radio, airing on FM 93.3 and
• The G7 also reiterated its commitment to mobilise more AM 96.3 every Sunday.
climate finance towards renewable energy solutions. • It will be a weekly broadcast and aims to cater to
• The G7 or the Group of 7 are the seven major industrial the sizeable Indian expatriate community residing in
countries. These consist of Canada, France, Germany, Kuwait.
April 2024 9
NASA will also provide two seats on future Artemis

Key Points
lunar landing missions to astronauts from the Japanese
Prime Minister — Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah space agency JAXA, the first agency other than NASA
Capital — Kuwait City to secure spots on landing missions.
Official Language — Arabic
Germany legalises cannabis possession for personal use
from April 1
‘Artificial Sun’- Korean Fusion Reactor sets records for
sustaining plasma at 100 million degrees Celsius • Germany became the biggest European Union (EU)
country to legalise recreational cannabis.
• South Korean scientists have set a new world record
using the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced • The new law, which still prohibits possession and use
Research (KSTAR) device, an ‘artificial sun’ nuclear of the drug for anyone under 18, will leave Germany
fusion reactor. with some of the most liberal cannabis laws in Europe.
• The team generated plasma temperatures of 100 million The law makes it legal to obtain up to 25 grams of
degrees Celsius for 48 seconds during tests between the drug per day for personal use through regulated
December 2023 and February 2024. This temperature is cannabis cultivation associations, as well as to have up
seven times that of the Sun’s core, which is 15 million to three plants at home.
degrees Celsius. • Malta and Luxembourg legalised recreational use of
• The facility’s previous record, set in 2021, was just 30 the drug in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
seconds. • The Netherlands, known for its liberal cannabis laws,
• The scientists will now aim to sustain plasma has been cracking down on sales to tourists and non-
temperatures of 100 million degrees Celsius for 300 residents in recent years.
seconds by 2026.
Israel deploys C-Dome defence system for the first time
• Nuclear fusion seeks to replicate the reaction that
• Israel has deployed its ship-mounted defence system,
makes the sun and other stars shine, by fusing two
known as the C-Dome, for the first time against a
atoms to unleash huge amounts of energy. Fusion
suspicious aerial target that violated the country’s
has the potential to provide limitless energy without
airspace near the southern city of Eilat.
planet-warming carbon pollution.
• The incident occurred following an alert in the area,
• The KFE scientists managed to extend the time by
tweaking the process, including using tungsten which had previously been targeted by missile fire
instead of carbon in the ‘diverters,’ which extract heat from Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
and impurities produced by the fusion reaction. • The C-Dome, a naval adaptation of the Iron Dome,
successfully intercepted the target, marking its maiden
Key Points operational use.
Director of the KSTAR — Si-Woo Yoon
Research Centre Romania and Bulgaria partially join Europe’s Schengen
travel zone, but checks at land borders remain
Japanese astronaut to be first non-American to set foot • Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-
on moon check-free travel zone marking a new step in the two
• Japan will become the first nation after the United countries’ integration with the European Union.
States to land an astronaut on the moon as part of • After years of negotiations to join the Schengen area,
the Artemis lunar exploration campaign under an there is now free access for travellers arriving by air or
agreement between the two countries. sea from both countries. However, land border checks
• NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and Japanese Minister will remain in place due to opposition primarily from
of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Austria which has long blocked their bid over illegal
(MEXT) Masahito Moriyama signed an agreement migration concerns.
regarding an additional Japanese contribution to • The Schengen Area was established in 1985. Before
Artemis, a pressurised lunar rover called Lunar Cruiser. Bulgaria and Romania’s admission, it comprised 23 of
• NASA will deliver the rover to the moon ahead of the the 27 EU member countries, along with Switzerland,
Artemis 7 mission, scheduled for no earlier than 2031. Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
• Austria vetoed Romania and Bulgaria’s admission into • Nigeria is one of the 26 meningitis hyper-endemic
the Schengen zone at the end of 2022 but allowed countries of Africa, situated in the area known as the
Croatia full accession. Bulgaria and Romania joined African Meningitis Belt. Last year, there was a 50%
the EU in 2007 and Croatia in 2013. jump in annual meningitis cases reported across Africa.
• Meningitis is a serious infection that leads to the
U.S. and Britain ally to enhance Artificial Intelligence
(AI) Safety inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that
surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
• The Joe Biden Presidency-led US administration and
There are multiple causes of meningitis, including
Rishi Sunak-led British government will be working
viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic pathogens. The
together to standardise AI testing and ensure that AI
symptoms often include headache, fever and stiff
models are safe for the public.
neck.
• Both countries will also establish government-led AI
• Bacterial meningitis is the most serious, can also result
safety institutes.
in septicaemia (blood poisoning) and can seriously
• Under the formal partnership, Britain and the United
disable or kill within 24 hours those that contract it.
States plan to conduct joint testing exercises on publicly
accessible AI models. Russia launches Angara-A5 Space Rocket at the third
attempt
Romania unveils world’s most potent laser
• Russia successfully launched its Angara A5 space
• Romania unveiled the world’s most potent laser,
rocket from the Vostochny Cosmodrome after two
utilising Chirped-Pulse Amplification (CPA) technology
aborted liftoff attempts.
pioneered by Nobel laureates Gerard Mourou
• This launch comes after a series of technical setbacks
and Donna Strickland, promising groundbreaking
applications in various sectors. that led to the cancellation of two previous attempts,
pointing to the challenges faced in the high-stakes
• With a peak power of 10 petawatts and femtosecond
realm of space technology.
duration pulses, this laser sets a new standard in
intensity, offering immense potential for advancements • The Angara family of rockets was developed to replace
in fields such as healthcare, space exploration, and the Soviet-designed Proton rockets.
industrial processes. • It is central to Russia’s strategy to secure its
• The laser’s capabilities span numerous domains, independence in accessing outer space and to reduce
including advanced precision instruments for corrective reliance on the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
eye surgery, compact particle accelerators for cancer China launches three-member Shenzhou-18 crew to its
treatment, and innovative solutions for addressing Tiangong space station
global challenges like nuclear waste disposal and space
• China launched a team of three astronauts aboard
debris cleanup.
a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite
• The laser is developed in partnership with the French
Launch Centre in northwest China. This rocket is
company Thales.
headed towards the Tiangong space station in low
Nigeria becomes the first country to roll out new earth orbit.
Meningitis vaccine • The trio will require approximately six and a half hours
• In a historic move, Nigeria has become the first country to reach Tiangong after the spacecraft reaches orbit
in the world to roll out a new vaccine (called Men5CV) and conducts an automated rendezvous to dock with
recommended by the World Health Organisation the space station, which orbits some 400 km (250 miles)
(WHO). The vaccine protects people against five above the Earth. The Shenzhou-18 spacecraft is also
strains of the meningococcus bacteria. known as the ‘Divine vessel’.
• The vaccine and emergency vaccination activities are • Throughout their six-month tenure in orbit, the
funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which funds Shenzhou-18 crew’s primary responsibilities will
the global meningitis vaccine stockpile and supports include conducting scientific experiments, performing
lower-income countries with routine vaccination spacewalks and undertaking routine maintenance and
against meningitis. management duties for the space station.
April 2024 11
India gifts 35 ambulances, 66 school buses to organisations Scientists discover the deepest blue hole in the world-
in Nepal Mexico’s Taam Ja’ Blue Hole
• India donated 35 ambulances and 66 school buses • The researchers unveiled the true extent of Mexico’s
Taam Ja’ Blue Hole (TJBH), now officially known as the
to various organisations across Nepal, enhancing
deepest blue hole on earth.
the local infrastructure in the health and education
• TJBH is located in Chetumal Bay off the Yucatan
sectors. Peninsula, Mexico and it is 1,380 feet (420meters) below
• This donation underscores the deep-rooted partnership sea level — nearly the height of the Trump Tower in
between India and Nepal. Chicago, US.
• It will foster development and strengthen bilateral • The blue hole surpasses the previous record holder, the
Sansha Yongle Blue Hole, also known as the Dragon
relations through improved access to essential services.
Hole in the South China Sea, by 480 feet.
U.S.- Japan-Philippines hold first trilateral • Blue holes, also known as Karst formations, are
geological wonders formed by the gradual dissolution
• The first-ever trilateral summit among the U.S., Japan of soluble bedrock such as limestone or gypsum,
and the Philippines was held at the White House. resulting in the creation of vertical caverns submerged
• The meeting underscored the commitment of the beneath the ocean’s surface. However, the Taam
United States to support its allies, Japan and the Ja’ Blue Hole’s immense depth presents a unique
Philippines, amid escalating territorial disputes with challenge, pushing the limits of scientific exploration
China. to new frontiers.
Uttar Pradesh has the maximum GI tagged items in the • Pachra is a handwoven cloth used by the state’s
country Indigenous communities.
• Six products from Uttar Pradesh received the GI tag. • The Matabari Mahila Cluster Level Bahumukhi
These are Kashi’s Tirangi Barfi, which was first made Samabaya Samity Limited applied for the GI tag for
by a local sweet maker during the revolutionary Matabari Pera while the Dewanbari Mahila Cluster
movement, metal casting craft of Kashi, Bareilly Bahumukhi Samabaya Samity Limited had made a
zardozi, Bareilly cane bamboo craft, Tharu embroidery similar application for Pachra or Rignai textile in April
and Pilkhua handblock print textile. last year.
• With these additions, UP has the highest number of GI Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited
(APSEZ’s) Vizhinjam Port gets the nod to run as India’s
products at 75. Of the 75 GI products of Uttar Pradesh,
first transshipment hub
34 are from the Kashi region.
• The Central government has approved Adani’s
• It is followed by Uttarakhand-24, Arunachal Pradesh-18,
Vizhinjam Port in Kerala to operate as the first
Madhya Pradesh-8, Meghalaya-Assam-8, Jammu and
transshipment port in the country.
Kashmir-8, Rajasthan-5, Gujarat-4, Tripura-3, Odisha-2,
Ladakh-1 and Chhattisgarh-1. • A transshipment port is a hub where cargo is transferred
from one big vessel to several smaller ones before they
• The GI tags provide legal recognition and safeguards
reach the final port of discharge.
against unauthorised use, contributing to the economic
• This approval paves the way for customs to set up
prosperity of local communities and preserving the
an office at Vizhinjam port. It will be India’s first full-
state’s cultural and agricultural legacy. These tags
fledged deep-water transshipment port.
protect the unique identity and quality of these
• A final nod from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes
regional products.
and Customs (CBIC) is expected in the coming three
Matabari Pera and Pachra from Tripura gets coveted GI tag months.
• Matabari Pera and Pachra have received the GI tag. TASL successfully deploys India’s First privately built
• Matabari Pera is a dairy-based confectionary item Sub-Metre Resolution Surveillance Satellite
traditionally served as prasad at the Tripurasundari • Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), in collaboration
temple in Gomati district. with Satellogic, has successfully launched India’s
inaugural private sector-built sub-metre resolution • The top five export markets, for the sector during the
earth observation satellite, TSAT-1A. last fiscal, are the US, the UK, the Netherlands, South
• SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched TSAT-1A satellite Africa and Brazil. The US accounts for over 31% of
India’s total pharma exports, followed by the UK and
from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, in the US.
Netherlands (about 3% each).
• A wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, TASL is a
• Experts have predicted that India’s pharmaceutical
significant player in aerospace and defence solutions
business may exceed USD 130 billion by 2030, supported
in India. by expanding market opportunities and heightened
India aims for first strategic petroleum reserve with a demand in the overseas markets. The business stood
at over USD 50 billion for the 2022–23.
private company by 2029–30
• India plans to build its first privately managed Strategic EU-India collaborate to advance EV battery recycling
Petroleum Reserve (SPR) by 2029–30, granting the technologies through the Trade and Technology Council
operator the freedom to trade all of the stored oil. • The European Union (EU) and India launched an
• India plans to build two new SPRs - the first an 18.3 Expression of Interest (EoI) for startups working in
million barrels cavern at Padur in southern Karnataka Battery Recycling Technologies for Electric Vehicles
(EVs).
state, and then a 29.3 million barrels SPR in eastern
Odisha state - with private partners allowed to trade • This initiative was launched under the India-EU Trade
and Technology Council (TTC) and aims to enhance
all of the oil locally.
cooperation between European and Indian Small and
• The government will have the first right to the oil in Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and startups in the
the event of a shortage. clean technology sector.
• So far, India has allowed only partial commercialisation • The India-EU Trade & Technology Council (TTC) was
for its three existing SPRs in southern India, which announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and
have a combined capacity of 36.7 million barrels. President of the European Commission Ursula von der
• Expanding oil storage capacity would also help India Leyen in April 2022.
join the International Energy Agency (IEA), which Central Government grants AEO status to the gem and
requires its members to hold a minimum of 90 days of jewellery sector
oil consumption. • The Ministry of Finance has assigned the Authorised
India secures rights to operate Sittwe Port in Myanmar Economic Operator (AEO) status to the gem and
jewellery sector.
• India has gained the right to operate a second overseas
• It was introduced as a pilot project for export-oriented
port, Sittwe, in Myanmar. This is part of the Kaladan industries to promote ease of doing business.
Multimodal Transit Transport project, which aims to
• The AEO programme was instrumental in simplifying
provide alternate connectivity from the eastern coast export operations across various sectors, resulting in
of India to the northeastern states through the Sittwe significant time and cost savings for exporters.
port.
• The port is located on the Kaldan River. India Ports KABIL and CSIR-IMMT sign MoU for Technical and
Knowledge cooperation for Critical Minerals
Global (IPGL) will take over the operations of the
entire port. • Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) has signed an
MoU with the Council of Scientific and Industrial
• IPGL is a joint venture between Jawaharlal Nehru
Research – Institute of Minerals and Materials
Port Trust (JNPT) and Deendayal Port Trust (Erstwhile Technology (CSIR-IMMT) for Technical & Knowledge
Kandla Port Trust). cooperation for Critical Minerals.
• This is India’s second overseas port acquisition after • Under the MoU, KABIL will leverage the technical
Chabahar port in Iran. expertise and services of CSIR-IMMT to undertake
various projects, including the design and analysis of
India’s pharmaceuticals exports rise 10% to $28 billion metallurgical test work-plans, development and review
in FY24 of process flowsheets, and the selection of process
• India’s drugs and pharmaceuticals exports increased technologies for mineral processing, beneficiation and
9.67% year-on-year to USD 27.9 billion in 2023-24. metal extraction.
April 2024 13
• Furthermore, the agreement will also embark on • Adani Group will invest ` 1.5 lakh crore in this project.
joint research and facilitate the exchange of scientific • Currently, 2 GW of renewable energy is being produced
information between the two entities. from this park, and 4 GW capacity will be added by
Adani family invests `8,339 cr more in Ambuja Cements; April 2025. Thereafter, 5 GW capacity will be increased
stake rises to 70.3% every year.
• The Adani family, led by billionaire businessman • Gujarat Industries Power Company Limited (GIPCL)
Gautam Adani, has infused `8,339 crore into the has been appointed as the nodal agency for the Hybrid
group’s cement subsidiary Ambuja Cements Ltd. Renewable Energy Park.
• With this, the Adani family has infused a total of French automaker Citroen becomes the first MNC to
`20,000 crore into Ambuja Cements and increased its export EVs from India, ships ‘Made in India’ e-C3 electric
stake further by 3.6% to around 70.3%. cars to Indonesia
• The latest capital infusion follows an investment of
• French automaker Citroën has become the first
`5,000 crore into Ambuja on 18 October 2022 and then
multinational car manufacturing company in India
`6,661 crore on 28 April 2024.
to export Electric Vehicles (EVs) to the international
• Ambuja Cement is the country’s second-largest listed
market.
cement maker.
• Citroen commenced the export of 500 units of ‘Made
Canara Bank and Society for Innovation & Entrepreneur- in India’ ë-C3 electric cars to Indonesia from Kamarajar
ship (SINE), IIT Bombay sign an MoU Port near Chennai,
• The Society For Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SINE),
Mahindra Group to invest nearly ` 1,200 cr in renewable
IIT Bombay and Canara Bank entered into an MoU to
provide financial support to startups. energy projects
• Under its Canara Start-Up Scheme, Canara Bank is • Mahindra Susten will foray into the hybrid renewable
providing financial support for the creation, promotion, energy segment by setting up a ` 1,200-crore
diversification, and modernisation of industrial units 150-megawatt solar wind energy project in Maharashtra.
across India. • The project includes the installation of a 101-megawatt
• SINE, as a technology business incubator, offers (MW) wind and 52 MW solar capacity.
comprehensive incubation and acceleration support • The facility is expected to generate 460 million kilowatt-
from start to finish for technology startups. hours (kWh) of clean energy, offsetting 420,000 tonnes
BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover ventures into of Co2 emissions.
fintech with ZeroPe app • Mahindra Group will develop a 150 MW hybrid RE
• BharatPe co-founder and former managing director (Renewable energy solar + wind) project at a total
Ashneer Grover has launched a new venture in the project cost of about ` 1,200 crore.
fintech space with ZeroPe, an app designed for medical • The project also marks Mahindra Susten’s foray into
loans. the ‘hybrid RE’ segment and will be one of the largest
• ZeroPe, currently in its testing phase, has been co-located solar + wind hybrid projects in Maharashtra
developed by Third Unicorn. It will provide instant to deliver clean energy to commercial and Industrial
pre-approved medical loans of up to ` 500,000 in (C&I) customers.
collaboration with Delhi-based Non-Banking Financial
Vedanta’s BALCO: First Indian Company certified with
Company (NBFC) Mukut Finvest.
ASI Performance Standard
• The service is exclusively available at partnered
hospitals, as mentioned on the ZeroPe app website. • Chhattisgarh-based Bharat Aluminium Company
Limited (BALCO), a unit of Vedanta Aluminium, has
Adani Group builds the world’s largest renewable energy emerged as the first Indian company to achieve the
park in Gujarat Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Performance
• Adani Green Energy Limited has built the world’s Standard V3 Certification for the manufacture and
largest renewable energy park in the Khavda region, supply of a wide range of primary aluminium products
Kutch district, Gujarat. at its facility in Korba.
• The ASI Certification program was developed through Key Points

an extensive multi-stakeholder consultation process
Razorpay CEO — Harshil Mathur
and is the only comprehensive voluntary sustainability
standard initiative for the global aluminium value MD & CEO of Airtel — Anubrata Biswas
chain. Payments Bank
• The ASI Performance Standard V3 defines 11 principles CRED receives in-principle approval for Payment of
and 62 criteria under three sustainability pillars — Aggregator License
Environment, Social, and Governance - with the aim • CRED has received the in-principle approval for a
to address sustainability areas in the aluminium value payment aggregator license.
chain, such as biodiversity, indigenous peoples’ rights,
• This license allows fintech companies to process
circularity and greenhouse gas emissions.
payments directly, reduce costs, gain greater control
IREDA granted the prestigious ‘Navratna’ status over payment flow and onboard merchants directly.
• IREDA was granted ‘Navratna’ status by the Department • Additionally, payment aggregators with licenses can
of Public Enterprises. IREDA is a non-banking financial settle funds directly with merchants.
institution under the Ministry of New and Renewable Key Points
Energy.
CRED’s Headquarters — Bengaluru
• It is engaged in promoting, developing and extending
CRED Founder & CEO — Kunal Shah
financial assistance for setting up projects related to
new and renewable sources of energy. PayU granted RBI’s in-principle approval to operate as a
• The Indian government grants Navratna status payment aggregator
to premier Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), • Prosus-backed fintech PayU received an in-principle
empowering them to execute significant investments approval from RBI to operate as a payment aggregator.
of up to `1,000 crore without requiring approval from
• It will now function as a Payments Aggregator (PA)
the central authority.
under the Payment Settlements Act, 2007.
• These firms are permitted to allocate up to 30% of
their net worth annually, provided it remains under RBI releases guidelines for ETPs
`1,000 crore. Additionally, they have the option to • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released a draft Master
participate in joint ventures, forge partnerships, and Direction for Electronic Trading Platforms (ETPs) and
set up overseas subsidiaries. also invited comments and feedback from operators,
• To qualify for Navratna status, a company must first banks, market participants and other interested parties
attain the Miniratna Category-I designation and by May 31.
be included in Schedule A of Central Public Sector • The aim is to facilitate market makers’ access to offshore
Enterprises (CPSEs). ETPs offering permitted Indian Rupee (INR) products.
Key Points • ETPs are digital systems that facilitate the trading of
various financial instruments. They operate outside of
IREDA’s Chairman — Pradip Kumar Das
traditional stock exchanges. They provide a platform
and MD
for buyers and sellers to trade directly with each other.
• According to the draft, an entity seeking authorisation
as an ETP operator must maintain a minimum net
Razorpay and Airtel Payments Bank roll out the ‘UPI
worth of ` 5 crore and maintain the minimum net
switch.’
worth prescribed herein at all times.
• Razorpay launched its own UPI infrastructure with • In October 2018, the RBI had introduced a framework
UPI Switch, a next-generation cloud-based innovation, for the authorisation of Electronic Trading Platforms to
in partnership with Airtel Payments Bank. facilitate transactions in financial market instruments
• The ‘UPI Switch’ will also enable five times faster under its regulation. Under the 2018 framework of
access to UPI (Unified Payments Interface) innovations RBI, 13 ETPs operated by 5 operators have since been
for businesses. authorised. The framework was designed to ensure
April 2024 15
fair access through transparent, safe and efficient • Stargate will be the biggest in a series of supercomputers
trading processes, and robust trading infrastructures that Microsoft and OpenAI plan to build over the next
and prevent market abuse. six years.
• The supercomputer plan is currently in the middle
Microsoft and OpenAI plan $100 billion supercomputer
of the third phase with Stargate being part of the
called ‘Stargate’
fifth and final phase. A significant part of the cost for
• Microsoft and OpenAI are working together on the upcoming phases will come from acquiring AI
building an artificial intelligence supercomputer called chips.
‘Stargate’ that could cost as much as $100 billion.
DEFENCE NEWS
IAF conducts Gagan Shakti- 2024 (DRDO), conducted the successful flight test of New
• The Indian Air Force conducted a ten-day mega Generation Ballistic Missile Agni-Prime from Dr APJ
exercise ‘Gagan Shakti’ with all air force bases and Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
assets scattered across the country. • The test met all the trial objectives validating its reliable
performance, as confirmed from the data captured by
• ‘Gagan Shakti’ was last held in 2018 when the IAF
several range sensors deployed at different locations,
clocked more than 11,000 sorties during the two-phase
including two downrange ships placed at the terminal
air manoeuvres.
point.
• It sought to test the IAF’s readiness for a two-front war
with China and Pakistan. Key Points
• From deep strikes to air dominance, and maritime DRDO’s Chairman — Samir V Kamat
operations to air defence, the IAF practised every
DRDO’s Headquarters — New Delhi
manoeuvre in the book to prepare for a short and
intense war. DRDO & Indian Army conduct successful trials of
Key Points indigenous Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile
Chief of Air Staff — Vivek Ram Chaudhari Weapon System
Chief of the Defence — Anil Chauhan • The Indian Army has successfully carried out field
Staff trials of indigenously developed man-portable anti-
tank guided missile (MPATGM) weapon system.
Army conducts training exercise of Anti-Tank Guided
• This will pave the way for its induction into the Indian
Missile in Sikkim
army.
• The Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army conducted an • It is designed and developed by the Defence Research
Anti-Tank Guided Missiles training exercise in a super- & Development Organisation (DRDO).
high altitude region in Sikkim.
• The training was conducted at super-high altitude Key Points
area of 17,000 feet and it encompassed comprehensive Chief of the Army Staff — Manoj Pande
continuity training and live firing from different
platforms on moving as well as static targets depicting India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka hold ‘Dosti’ exercises in
battlefield conditions. the Indian Ocean
• Missile Firing Detachments from Mechanised, Infantry • The Coast Guard personnel from India, the Maldives
Units participated in training. and Sri Lanka embarked on a four-day trilateral exercise
DRDO and India’s Strategic Forces Command (SFC) to identify emerging maritime challenges in the Indian
launched a new generation Ballistic Missile Agni-Prime Ocean Region.
• Strategic Forces Command (SFC), along with the • This exercise aims to enhance maritime security and
Defence Research and Development Organisation interoperability.
• The Indian Coast Guard ship Samarth and ICGS Indian Coast Guard inaugurates Aquatic Centre at
Abhinav along with Sri Lanka Naval Ship Samudura Mandapam, Tamil Nadu
participated in the exercise. • Indian Coast Guard Director General Rakesh Pal
• Bangladesh participated as an observer state. inaugurated the Indian Coast Guard Aquatic Centre
at ICGS Mandapam near Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu.
Indian Army inducts indigenous Akashteer system to
• The Indian Coast Guard works under the Union
boost its air defence capabilities
Ministry of Defence.
• The Indian Army has started the induction of control
Coastal security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ conducted off
and reporting systems under ‘Project Akashdeep’ to Lakshadweep Islands
bolster its air defence capabilities. These are developed
• A two-day exercise involving all maritime security
by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
agencies of India was conducted off the Lakshadweep
• The project is aimed at significantly enhancing the Islands from April 1–2.
operational efficiency and integration of the Indian • During the exercise, validation of the effectiveness
Army’s air defence mechanisms. of coastal security mechanisms while dealing with
• The Indian army has declared 2024 as the ‘Year of Tech asymmetric threats emanating from the sea was
Absorption’ and is undertaking various initiatives to undertaken.
induct niche technology and systems in its inventory. • The exercise witnessed enhanced preparedness,
• The Akashteer Project is a cutting-edge initiative response mechanism, surveillance capabilities and
designed to automate Air Defence Control and coordination between the coastal security stakeholders.
Reporting processes by digitising the entire process. India-Uzbekistan joint military exercise DUSTLIK conducted
Army chief General Pande inaugurates state-of-the-art IT • The fifth edition of the ‘Dustlik’ Joint Military Exercise
lab at Uzbek Academy of Armed Forces between India and Uzbekistan was conducted in
Termez District, Uzbekistan.
• Indian Army Chief Gen. Manoj Pande inaugurated a
• During the exercise, soldiers from the Indian Armed
state-of-the-art IT laboratory facility that also boasts a
Forces and the Armed Forces of Uzbekistan will
cutting-edge cybersecurity lab at the Uzbek Academy undergo comprehensive joint training sessions.
of Armed Forces during his ongoing visit to Uzbekistan.
• Exercise DUSTLIK is a yearly event conducted
• The development signifies a milestone in defence alternatively in India and Uzbekistan. The last edition
cooperation between the two nations, following a was conducted at Pithoragarh (India) in February 2023.
commitment made during the Defence Ministers’ • The inaugural edition of this exercise was held in
meeting in September 2018. Uzbekistan in November 2019.
APPOINTMENTS
Name Designation
Dinesh Kumar Tripathi Chief of the Naval Staff
Sanjana Sanghi Brand Ambassador of SPACE India
Vandita Kaul Secretary, Department of Posts
Nalin Negi CEO of BharatPe
Nalin Prabhat Director-General of NSG
Amitabh Chaudhry MD & CEO of Axis Bank (Reappointment)
Gita Sabharwal UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia
Gopi Thotakura First Indian pilot to venture into space as a tourist, joining Blue Origin’s
NS-25 mission
Naima Khatoon First Woman Vice-Chancellor of AMU
MS Dhoni Brand ambassador of Citroen India
April 2024 17
Santosh Viswanathan Vice President and Managing Director for Intel, India
Anurag Kumar Joint Director of CBI
Sushil Sharma CMD of SJVN Limited
Jagjit Pavadia Member of International Narcotics Control Board
Sachidananda Mohanty Member, University Grants Commission (UGC)
Tarun Bajaj Head of US-India Tax Forum
Rakesh Mohan Member of World Bank Economic Advisory Panel
Meenesh Shah Chairman of National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India Ltd. (NCDFI)
Najmi Waziri Head Committee for Delhi Forest Protection
Srinivas Pallia CEO & MD of Wipro
Love Kumar Inspector General (IG) in the Special Protection Group (SPG)
Jayaraj Shanmugam Head of Global Airport Operations, Air India
Narsingh Yadav Chairman of WFI Athletes Commission
Rabi Sankar Deputy governor of RBI (Reappointment)
Yuvraj Singh ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Ambassador
Arun Alagappan Executive Chairman of Coromandel International
Sarvadanand Barnwal Director in Department of Land Resources
Sunil Yadav Director of Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al Sabah Prime Minister.of Kuwait
Vivek Agarwal Director of FIU-India
Lawrence Wong Prime Minister of Singapore
Kristalina Georgieva Managing Director of IMF (Second term)
Aniruddha Bose Head of the National Judicial Academy
Simon Harris Youngest Prime Minister of Ireland
Dr. Meenesh Shah Chairman of the National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India (NCDFI).
Shefali Sharan Principal Director General of the Press Information Bureau (PIB)
Abdel Fattah al-Sisi President of Egypt (Third term)
Judith Suminwa Tuluka First female Prime Minister of Democratic Republic of Congo
General JS Sidana Director General of the Department of Electronics and Mechanical
Engineers (DGEME)
Nidhu Saxena MD & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra
Santosh Kumar Jha CMD of Konkan Railway Corporation
Rajeev Singhal MD of Tata International
Joyshree Das Verma President of FICCI Ladies Organisation
Sanjay Nayar President of Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India
(ASSOCHAM)
Atul Mehra MD & CEO of Axis Capital
BOOKS AND AUTHORS
Books Authors
The Idea of Democracy Sam Pitroda
India — the Road to Renaissance: A Vision and an Bhimeswara Chall

Agenda
Heavenly Islands of Goa P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
Law and Spirituality: Reconnecting the Bond Editor- Professor Raman Mittal and Professor Seema Singh
“Knife”: A Harrowing Tale of Resilience and the Fight Salman Rushdie
for Free Speech
The Winner’s Mindset Shane Watson
Just a Mercenary?: Notes from My Life and Career Duvvuri Subbarao
Name Occupation
Visheshwara Rao Tamil actor
Gangu Ramsay Cinematographer
R.M. Veerappan Politician
KG Jayan Carnatic Musician
Sudhir Kakar (Father of Indian Psychology) Writer and Cultural Critic
Subrahmanya Dhareshwar Theatre Artist
Name Occupation
Barbara Rush Actress

Peter Higgs British physicist
O.J. Simpson Footballer
Jack Clarke Cricketer
Jack Alabaster Cricketer
Raman Subba Row Cricketer
Joe Kinnear Footballer
Bernd Hölzenbein Footballer
Derek Underwood English cricketer
Juan Vicente Pérez Mora World’s oldest verified living man
April 2024 19
DAYS AND THEMES
Date Day Theme

April 1–7 Prevention of Blindness Week
April 1 RBI foundation day
April 2 World Autism Awareness Day Empowering Autistic Voices
April 4 International Day for Mine Awareness Protecting Lives, Building Peace
and Assistance in Mine Action
April 5 National Maritime Day Navigating the future: safety first!
April 5 International Day of Conscience Promoting the Culture of Peace with Love and Conscience
April 6 International Day of Sports For Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies
Development And Peace
April 7 World Health Day My health, my right
April 10 World Homeopathy Day Homeoparivar: One Health, One Family
April 11 National Safe Motherhood Day
April 11 World Parkinson’s Day
April 14 World Chagas Disease Day Tackling Chagas disease: detect early and care for life
April 15 World Art Day A Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community through Art.
April 17 World Haemophilia Day Equitable access for all: recognising all bleeding disorders
April 18 World Heritage Day Discover and Experience Diversity
April 19 World Liver Day Be vigilant, get regular liver check-ups, and prevent fatty
liver diseases
April 21 National Civil Service Day
April 22 World Earth Day Planet vs. Plastics
April 23 World Book and Copyright Day Read Your Way
April 23 English Language Day
April 24 National Panchayati Raj Day
April 24 World Day For Animals in Laboratories
April 24 International Day of Multilateralism
and Diplomacy for Peace
April 24-30 World Immunization Week 2024 Humanly Possible: Immunisation for All
April 25 World Malaria Day Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable
world
April 25 International Girls in ICT Day
(Fourth
Thursday in
April)
April 25 International Delegate’s Day Together, we challenge those in power
April 26 World Intellectual Property Day IP and the SDGs: Building Our Common Future with
Innovation and Creativity
April 26 International Chernobyl Disaster

Remembrance Day
April 27 World Veterinary Day Veterinarians are essential health workers
April 27 World Design Day
April 28 World Day for Safety and Health at
Work
April 29 International Dance Day
April 30 Ayushman Bharat Diwas
Forbes World’s Billionaires List 2024 sees entry of 25 new • This indicates an increasing integration of UPI in smaller
Indians transactions, particularly person-to-merchant (P2M)
• Forbes unveiled its 2024 ‘World’s Billionaires’ list, transactions, and reflects the evolving preferences of
revealing a notable surge in the number of Indian consumers towards digital payment methods.
billionaires. • The report also highlights the enhancement of payment
• Of the 200 Indians listed, 25 individuals made their acceptance infrastructure across the country, with the
debut appearance, marking their first inclusion on the use of Point of Sale (PoS) terminals rising by 26% to
roster of the world’s wealthiest individuals. 8.56 million.
• Collectively, these Indian billionaires have amassed an Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024- India’s unicorn count
impressive $954 billion, reflecting a remarkable 41% down for the first time since 2017
surge from the previous year’s total wealth of $675 • According to the Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024,
billion held by 169 billionaires. India’s startup ecosystem has slowed, with the number
• Zerodha founders Nithin and Nikhil Kamath, and of unicorns declining for the first time since 2017.
Flipkart founders Sachin and Binny Bansal have • The slowdown came despite the recent stock market
emerged as India’s youngest billionaires. 37-year-old record highs while one factor was that Indian founders
Nikhil Kamath leads the list with a net worth of $3.1 produced more offshore unicorns than any other
billion according to the Forbes Billionaires List 2024. country.
• Meanwhile, Mukesh Ambani remains the country’s • India in 2023 had 67 unicorns, which is one less than
richest individual with a net worth of $116 billion. He 68 such startups last year.
is followed by Gautam Adani who ranks 17th with a net • The US led the list with 703 unicorns, up 37 from 2022,
worth of 84 billion. and China worth 340 unicorns. UK and EU ranked
fourth and fifth in the list, respectively.
UPI transactions surge by 56% in India
• The total value of the world’s unicorns has reached
• According to a report by a payment service provider
US$5 trillion, equivalent to last year’s GDP of Japan.
Worldline, UPI transactions in India surged by 56%
year-on-year (YoY) in the second half (H2) of 2023, • The slowdown is mainly due to a lack of investment in
while card transactions saw a modest growth of 6%. start-ups despite the recent stock market record highs.
• The report, however, noted that India produced more
• The volume of UPI transactions surged to 65.77 billion
offshore unicorns than any other country, co-founding
from 42.09 billion in H2 2023.
109 unicorns outside of India compared to 67 in India.
• Additionally, transaction value witnessed a 44%
increase, rising from ` 69.36 trillion to ` 99.68 trillion India is among 12 nations responsible for 60% of
during the same period. mismanaged plastic waste
• However, the average ticket size (ATS) for UPI • According to the report Plastic Overshoot Day,
transactions, experienced an 8% decline from Rs 1648 India is among the twelve countries responsible for
to ` 1515. 60% of the planet’s mismanaged plastic waste. The
April 2024 21
twelve countries responsible for 60% of the world’s • Globally, the exports of digitally delivered services
mismanaged plastic waste are: China, India, Russia, surged to $4.25 trillion in 2023, marking a 9% year-
Brazil, Mexico, Vietnam, Iran, Indonesia, Egypt, on-year increase. This accounted for 13.8% of world
Pakistan, the United States and Turkey. exports of goods and services.
• India’s mismanaged plastic waste will be less than one- • While global trade in goods declined across all regions,
fifth of China and one-third of the US. exports of digitally delivered services continued to
• The global plastic waste generation has risen by 7.11% flourish. Europe and Asia, holding a combined global
since 2021. share of 76.2%, witnessed export increases of 11% and
• The world is estimated to have generated 220 million 9%, respectively.
tons of plastic waste this year, 70 million tons of which Apollo Hospital releases flagship Health of Nation
will end up polluting the environment. Report
• The report also claimed India is estimated to release
• According to the Apollo hospital report, on average,
an average of 3,91,879 tons of microplastics into the
at least one in three Indians were pre-diabetic, two
environment and 31,483 tons of chemical additives
in three were pre-hypertensive and one in ten were
into waterways.
depressed.
• The report classifies India as a ‘low-waste-producing’
• There was a significant growth in non-communicable
polluter due to its low per capita plastic waste
diseases (NCDs) across the nation. The report sheds
production (8 kg per capita per year). However, the
light on the concerning rise of NCDs in India, including
expected mismanaged waste in 2024 will be 7.4 million
cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases,
tons, which is ‘very high’.
and mental health issues, all of which significantly
Only 57 Companies account for 80% of the World’s impact the nation’s overall health.
Carbon emissions • There was a potential surge in healthcare burdens due
• According to a new report released by the think tank to conditions such as pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension,
InfluenceMap, 57 companies and nation-states were and mental health disorders manifesting at increasingly
responsible for generating 80% of the world’s CO2 younger ages.
emissions from fossil fuels and cement over the last • The report underscores the role of health screening in
seven years. reducing Blood Pressure (BP) and Body Mass Index
• This suggests that the net zero targets set by the Paris (BMI) levels, thereby lowering the risk of cardiac-
Climate Change Agreement in 2015 are yet to make a related ailments.
significant impact on fossil fuel production.
World Cybercrime Index
• The report uses the Carbon Majors database, established
• India ranked tenth in cybercrime, with frauds involving
in 2013 by Richard Heede of the Climate Accountability
people making advance fee payments being the most
Institute, to provide fossil fuel production data from
common type.
122 of the world’s largest oil, gas, coal and cement
producers. • Russia topped the list and was followed by Ukraine,
China, the US, Nigeria and Romania. North Korea was
India is the fourth largest exporter of digitally delivered in the seventh position, while the UK and Brazil were
spaces: WTO report in the eighth and ninth positions, respectively.
• According to the Global Trade Outlook and Statistics • The World Cybercrime Index is compiled by an
report by the World Trade Organisation (WTO), India’s international team of researchers. It ranks roughly
exports of digitally delivered services reached $257 100 countries and identifies key hotspots according
billion in 2023, marking a 17% increase compared to to various categories of cybercrime, including
the previous year. ransomware, credit card theft and scams.
• India has secured its place as the world’s fourth-largest • The research was published in the journal PLoS ONE.
exporter of digitally delivered services, contributing The researchers had through the survey asked the
more than a fifth to the global trade in services. experts to consider major types of crime in the virtual
• This growth outpaced that of Germany and China, world and nominate countries that they thought
which saw 4% growth each. contributed significantly to each of them.
• The major categories that the researchers identified military infrastructure, particularly along the China
were - technical products and services such as malware border following the Ladakh standoff that began in
and compromising systems; attacks and extortion May 2020.
including ransomware; data and identity theft • India’s modernisation efforts include investments in
including hacking, compromising accounts and credit fighter jets, helicopters, warships, tanks, artillery guns,
cards; scams such as advance fee fraud; and cashing rockets, missiles, unmanned capabilities, and other
out or money laundering involving illegitimate virtual combat systems.
currency. • India also held the fourth position in 2022, when
military spending reached $81.4 billion. This marked a
India’s population double in 77 years- UNFPA report
6% increase from 2021 and a substantial 47% rise since
• According to the United Nations Population Fund 2013.
(UNFPA’s) report, India’s population has reportedly
soared to an estimated 144 crore, with approximately Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024
24% falling within the 0-14 age bracket. • GRFC analysed a population of 1.3 billion in 2023
• 17% are aged between 10-19. Furthermore, the age across 59 countries. Nearly 282 million people faced
group of 10-24 is estimated to constitute 26%, while high levels of acute food insecurity.
those aged 15-64 make up 68%. Additionally, 7% of • 2023 was the fifth consecutive year of rise in the number
India’s population is aged 65 years and above, with of people suffering acute food insecurity, defined as
men having a life expectancy of 71 years and women when populations face food deprivation that threatens
74 years. lives or livelihoods, regardless of the causes or length
• Despite 30 years of progress in sexual and reproductive of time.
health, marginalized communities worldwide have • This study shows a global increase of 24 million from
been mostly overlooked. It also notes that child the previous year, with 1 in 5 people assessed as
marriage rates in India stood at 23% between 2006- requiring critical urgent action.
2023. • 36 million children under 5 years of age are acutely
• Maternal deaths in India have fallen considerably, malnourished across 32 countries.
accounting for 8% of all such fatalities worldwide. • Acute malnutrition worsened in 2023, particularly
However, Tirap district in Andhra Pradesh exhibits among displaced populations.
alarmingly high maternal mortality rates, reaching • 36 countries have been consistently featured in GRFC
1,671 deaths per 100,000 births. analyses since 2016, representing 80% of the world’s
• India takes the lead globally with an estimated most hungry.
population of 144.17 crore, with China following • 705,000 people were at risk of starvation (IPC/CH Phase
closely at 142.5. 5) in 2023, the highest number in GRFC’s reporting
• The report is titled ‘Interwoven Lives, Threads of history.
Hope: Ending Inequalities in Sexual and Reproductive • The Gaza Strip accounts for 80% of those facing
Health and Rights.’ imminent famine, along with South Sudan, Burkina
Faso, Somalia, and Mali.
India ranks fourth in global military spending at $83.6
• The ten countries with the world’s largest food crisis
bn in 2023- SIPRI
in 2023 were the Democratic Republic of the Congo,
• India was the world’s fourth-largest military spender Nigeria, Sudan, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Yemen, the
in 2023, making an expenditure of $83.6 billion to Syrian Arab Republic, Bangladesh, Pakistan and
modernise a range of weapons and combat systems. Myanmar.
• The United States (US), China, and Russia were the top • GFRC is released annually by the Food Security
three spenders in that order. Information Network (FSIN). It is launched by the
• India’s military spending saw a 4.2% increase compared Global Network Against Food Crises, a multistakeholder
to 2022. initiative that includes United Nations agencies,
• This growth reflects India’s strategic focus on the European Union, the United States Agency for
enhancing its defence capabilities and bolstering International Development and non-governmental
agencies working to tackle food crises.
April 2024 23
Karnataka and Gujarat lead India’s clean energy Indian Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR) for
transition race 2023 released
• According to the report released by the Institute for • S. Somanath, Chairman, ISRO, released the Indian
Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), and Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR) for 2023
clean energy think tank Ember, Karnataka and Gujarat compiled by ISRO System for Safe and Sustainable
continue to lead the race to clean energy transition. Space Operations Management (IS4OM).
• Both the states continue their strong performance • ISRO conducted 23 Collision Avoidance Manoeuvres
across dimensions, effectively integrating renewable (CAMs) to safeguard its satellites.
energy sources into their power sectors, and making • The report detailed that ISRO received approximately
strong strides in decarbonisation. 1,37,565 close approach alerts from the US Space
• It evaluates the clean electricity transition preparedness Command (USSPACECOM), with about 3,033 alerts
at the sub-national level. involving satellites coming within 1 km of each other.
• States like Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal and Uttar Despite these frequent close encounters.
Pradesh need to improve. These states are in the early • The year 2023 also saw a peak in the number of CAMs
stages of their transition, they now need to focus on executed by ISRO, although specific interventions
increasing renewable energy deployment, enhancing were not necessary for high-profile missions like
short-term market participation and strengthening Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1. Chandrayaan-3 moon
their distribution companies. mission faced a 4-second launch delay to avoid
• Several states are exhibiting preparedness to embrace potential collisions with debris and satellites. The delay
the electricity transition. They perform well in the was based on Collision Avoidance Analysis (COLA) to
“Readiness and Performance of the Power Ecosystem” prevent close approaches between debris objects and
and “Market Enablers” dimensions but need to improve injected satellites in their orbital phase.
in the “Decarbonisation” dimension.
• This highlights the effectiveness of ISRO’s monitoring
• State-level decarbonisation can be further accelerated and coordination efforts, which involve a meticulous
by strengthening the power ecosystem and having the reassessment of USSPACECOM data using more
right enablers. precise orbital information of Indian satellites.
• Kerala, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and • A total of 3143 new objects were added in 2023,
Maharashtra all exhibited considerable progress in
compared to 2533 in 2022, due to launches and on-
certain aspects but also lower performance in other
orbit break-up events.
aspects.
• There were five major on-orbit break-up events in 2023,
Indian passport ‘second cheapest’ in the world, next only resulting in a net addition of 69 fragmented objects to
to UAE’s the space debris population.
• In a recent study, Australian firm Compare the Market • Since the beginning of the Indian space era, a total of
AU conducted comparison of passport acquisition 127 Indian satellites have been launched, including
costs across various countries. those from private operators and academic institutions.
• It evaluated their cost-effectiveness per year of validity • As of December 31, 2023, India has 22 operational
and their value based on the number of nations offering satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 29 in Geo-
visa-free access. synchronous Earth Orbit (GEO).
• The UAE passport clinches the top spot as the most Three deep space missions were active: Chandrayaan-2
affordable passport globally, surpassing all others Orbiter, Aditya-L1, and the Propulsion Module of
in terms of both acquisition cost and the number of Chandrayaan-3.
countries offering visa-free access. • A total of 21 Indian satellites have re-entered the
• The Indian passport ranks as the second cheapest atmosphere, including a controlled re-entry of Megha-
passport to obtain worldwide. It holds the distinction tropics-1 in 2023.
of being the most cost-effective in terms of “cost per
• Out of 82 rocket bodies launched by India, 35 have re-
year” of validity.
entered the atmosphere, with 5 re-entries occurring in
• An Indian passport holder can travel to 62 nations visa- 2023.
free.
EVENTS
Nepal leads inaugural Rainbow Tourism Conference, President of India Inaugurates Homoeopathy Symposium
pledges safe destination for all • The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu
• The first International Rainbow Tourism Conference inaugurated a two-day Homoeopathy Symposium,
was held in Nepal as it offered itself as a safe and organised by the Central Council for Research in
respectful destination in South Asia for the sexual Homoeopathy, in New Delhi.
minority community. • The theme of the symposium was ‘Empowering
• It was a single-day international conference and Research, Enhancing Proficiency’.
was organised by Mayako Pahichan Nepal, a non-
governmental organisation. This event was organised Thrissur Pooram 2024
in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board. • Thrissur Pooram is one of the largest temple festivals
celebrated all over the world.
16th World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi
• Thrissur, the cultural capital of the state of Kerala, is
• The 16th World Future Energy Summit commenced in
dressed up and decorated during this time to celebrate
Abu Dhabi.
Thrissur Pooram. The temple festival is celebrated with
• It saw global leaders, policymakers, and experts in a lot of pomp and grandeur all over the state. People
sustainable energy and climate initiatives. deck up in new clothes and visit the temple Maidanam
• The summit aims to foster dialogue on key issues to witness the great festival.
like global climate action, renewable energy, energy • The temple festival was started by Shakthan
security, and sustainable development.
Thampuran, the King of Cochin, in the 1700s. Thrissur
International Conference on Disaster Resilient Pooram is witnessed by people from all walks of life,
Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2024 held in New Delhi irrespective of caste, creed, religion, colour and age.
• The sixth edition of the International Conference on Khihlang festival concluded in Wahiajer, Meghalaya
Disaster Resilient Infrastructure was held in New
• The 34th Seng Khihlang festival was held in Wahiajer,
Delhi.
Meghalaya.
• ICDRI was launched by Prime Minister Narendra
• The festival is significant to followers of the Khasi
Modi in 2019 at the UN Climate Action Summit. It
is a global partnership of national governments, UN Indigenous Faith and culminated with the ceremonial
agencies, multilateral development banks, the private reception of the Monolith, a symbol of unity.
sector, and knowledge institutions that aims to promote • Under the stewardship of the Seng Khasi Sein Raij, the
the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and festival has provided a unifying platform for all Khasi
disaster risks. Indigenous Faith adherents.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
Professor Meena Charanda honoured with ‘International Jain Acharya Lokesh Muni honoured with American
Culture Award’ 2024 President’s Volunteer Award 2024
• Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati and World Peace Centre
• Professor Meena Charanda has been honoured with founder Jain Acharya Lokesh were honoured with
the prestigious International Culture Award for 2024 the American Presidential Award at Capitol Hill in
in the field of education and social service. Washington.
• He is the first Indian monk to be honoured with the
• She has taught in the Political Science Department of
American Presidential Award.
Kalindi College for more than two decades. She has
• He was honoured with the Presidential Award, Golden
published more than 50 articles in various newspapers
Shield, Certificate of Honour and a citation bearing the
and magazines. signature of President Biden.
April 2024 25
Chandrayaan-3 mission receives prestigious US Space WEF recognises seven Indians as Young Global Leaders
Exploration award for 2024
• India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission team was recently • The World Economic Forum (WEF) has announced its
awarded the prestigious 2024 John L. ‘Jack’ Swigert Young Global Leaders Community Class of 2024.
Jr. Award for Space Exploration, acknowledging their • This year’s cohort comprises nearly 90 changemakers
efforts to elevate the standards of space exploration. from various fields, including politics, business, civil
• With the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission in August society, the arts and academia.
last year, India became the first country to land on the • These individuals are united in their drive to make a
south pole of the moon. lasting impact on their communities and beyond.
• John L ‘Jack’ Swigert Jr. Award for Space Exploration • Shashwat Goenka, Vice Chairman of the RPSG Group,
is an honour bestowed by the United States’ National Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director at
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in Vedanta; Richa Bajpai, Founder and CEO of Campus
recognition of outstanding contributions to space Fund; Arjun Bhartia, Joint Managing Director at
exploration. Jubilant Group; Adwaita Nayar, Chief Executive
• It is named after John L. ‘Jack’ Swigert Jr., an American Officer, FSN E-Commerce Ventures (NYKAA); Sharad
astronaut who flew on the Apollo 13 mission in 1970. Vivek Sagar, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at
• Swigert played a critical role in the safe return of the Dexterity Global, India; and Actress Bhumi Pednekar
Apollo 13 crew after an oxygen tank explosion aborted are among the Indians who have joined the WEF’s
their planned lunar landing. Forum of Young Global Leaders.
REC wins SKOCH ESG Award 2024 in Renewable Energy Ratan N. Tata receives the prestigious Kalinga Institute
Financing Category of Social Sciences Humanitarian Award 2021
• REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector • Mr Ratan N Tata, Chairman of Tata Trusts, has been
Enterprise under the Ministry of Power and a leading conferred with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian
NBFC, has been bestowed with the SKOCH ESG Award Award 2021, in recognition of his unwavering
2024 in the ‘Renewable Energy Financing’ category. commitment to social development and exemplary
• The award underscores REC’s dedication to sustainable leadership.
financing, paving the way for a greener future and • It was established in 2008 by Dr Achyuta Samanta,
accelerating the transition to renewable energy. the KISS Humanitarian Award is the highest honour
• REC Ltd. provides loans of various maturities to State, bestowed by KIIT and KISS. It recognises individuals
Central and Private Companies for the creation of and organisations worldwide who embody the spirit
infrastructure assets in the country. of humanitarian work. Previous recipients of this
prestigious award include a distinguished group of
Dr. Gagandeep Kang awarded the prestigious John Dirks global leaders, Nobel laureates and prominent figures
Gairdner Global Health Award from various sectors.
• Dr. Gagandeep Kang, an Indian researcher, has been
awarded the John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Vineet Jain Honoured with ENBA Lifetime Achievement
Health Award for her achievements in global health Award 2023
research. • Vineet Jain, Managing Director of The Times Group
• The John Dirks Award in global health is awarded by was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award 2023
the Gairdner Foundation in Canada. by the exchange4media News Broadcasting Awards
(ENBA) for his ‘immeasurable contributions to the
• She is the first Indian woman to get this award and
Indian television news landscape’.
says it is a huge honour for all the work that she and
her colleagues did while at Christian Medical College, • He was instrumental in founding the group’s TV
Vellore. The focus of Dr Kang’s work has been on platform, the Times Network, which includes the
childhood diarrhoea disease and comprehensive channels Times Now, ET Now, Mirror Now, Times
studies, including the work on vaccines. Now Navbharat and ET NOW Swadesh.
GAIL wins prestigious 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Award • The CIDC Vishwakarma Awards inspired by the
for Barauni – Guwahati pipeline spirit of construction and creation patronised by Lord
• Gas Authority of India Ltd. (GAIL) won the prestigious Vishwakarma, the ruling deity of construction practices
15th Construction Industry Development Council in India.
(CIDC) Vishwakarma Award in the ‘Achievement
Award for Best Construction Projects’ category for GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL)
its Barauni – Guwahati Natural Gas Pipeline Project won the prestigious ‘Best Airport Staff in India & South
(BGPL). Asia 2024’ award
• The BGPL project, an integral part of the Jagdishpur
• GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL)
– Haldia & Bokaro – Dhamra Pipeline project, has
connected North-East India with National Gas Grid has won the prestigious ‘Best Airport Staff in India &
for the first time. South Asia 2024’ award by Skytrax.
• The 718 km long pipeline will act as the gateway for • Hamad International Airport (DOH), located in Doha,
access to environmental-friendly fuel Natural Gas for Qatar, has been awarded the ‘World’s Best Airport’
the entire North-East through Indradhanush Gas Grid title.
Limited (IGGL).
SPORTS NEWS
Laureus World Sports Awards 2024

• The Laureus World Sports Awards is an annual event that celebrates great and inspiring sporting achievements.
• It was started in 2000 and awards the sportsperson in seven categories.
Category Winner
Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Novak Djokovic
Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Aitana Bonmatí
Comeback of the Year Simone Biles
Breakthrough of the Year Jude Bellingham
Team of the Year Award Spain Women’s Football Team
Action Sportsperson of the Year Award Arisa Trew
Laureus Sport for Good Award Fundación Rafa Nadal
Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award Diede de Groot
Harendra Singh appointed as coach of Indian Women’s Hockey India announces inaugural National Women’s
Hockey team Hockey League 2024 – 2025
• Former Indian Hockey player and Dronacharya • Hockey India unveiled the National Women’s Hockey
awardee Harendra Singh has been selected by Hockey League 2024 – 2025, marking a significant milestone in
India as the coach of the senior national women’s the nation’s sporting landscape.
hockey team. • The league is structured into two phases, with the
• Until recently, he served as coach of the USA men’s inaugural phase set to take place in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
hockey team. All matches during this phase will be hosted at the
• Janneke Schopman quit as the head coach of the Indian Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium,
women’s hockey team. Ranchi, Jharkhand.
April 2024 27
• The National Women’s Hockey League is the first athlete biological passports), 127 individuals tested
domestic women’s league of its kind in India, promising positive for banned substances, constituting 3.26% of
an exhilarating showcase of talent and skill. the sample size.
Maharashtra clinch India’s 56th National Kho-Kho • WADA report also found a 6.4% increase in the total
Championship number of samples analysed and reported in its Anti-
Doping Administration and Management System
• Maharashtra emerged victorious in both the men’s
(ADAMS) in 2022, compared to the previous year. The
and women’s categories at the 56th National Kho Kho
percentage of Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF) also
Championships.
increased to 0.77% in 2022, from 0.65% in 2021.
• The championships took place at the Indira Gandhi
National Stadium in Delhi, showcasing the prowess of • Samples in India were tested at the National Anti-
Kho Kho players from across the country. Doping Laboratory (NDTL) at the JLN stadium. The
analysis was based on failed drug tests among nations,
Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee hits T20Is 6 sixes in an with more than 2000 samples being tested by their
over. respective testing laboratories.
• Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee joined an elite list of
Sumit Nagpal makes history at the Monte Carlo Masters
cricketers hitting 6 sixes in an over in international
cricket. • In a historic moment for Indian tennis, Sumit Nagal
• India’s Yuvraj Singh and West Indies’ Kieron Pollard becomes the first Indian player to win an ATP Masters
had hit 6 sixes in an over in a T20 international. 1000 match on clay courts, marking a significant
milestone in his career.
Bindyarani Devi wins bronze in women’s 55kg
• Bindyarani Devi, the Birmingham Commonwealth D Gukesh wins 2024 FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament
Games 2022 silver medallist, won a bronze medal at • Dommaraju Gukesh has made history by winning the
the IWF World Cup 2024, held in Phuket, Thailand. FIDE Candidates tournament, becoming the youngest-
• The IWF World Cup 2024 is being organised by the ever challenger at the age of 17 years in the history of
International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) from the World Chess Championship.
March 31 to April 11, 2024 in Phuket, Thailand. Both • He has become the youngest challenger ever for the
men and women weightlifters are participating in the World Chess Championship, surpassing the record set
World Cup. by Garry Kasparov in 1984.
Bilquis Mir- First Indian women jury member in the • The 2024 FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament was
Paris Olympics held in Toronto, Canada.
• Bilquis Mir from Jammu and Kashmir made history as Dharamsala to get India’s first ‘hybrid pitch’
the first woman from India to serve as a jury member
• India’s first-ever ‘hybrid pitch’ was unveiled at the
at this year’s Summer Olympics in Paris, scheduled
picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association
from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
(HPCA) stadium in Dharamshala, marking a significant
• Gir’s appointment as a jury member for the Paris
milestone for the sport in the country.
Games was officially conveyed through a letter from
• The introduction of the SISGrass hybrid pitch is
the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to the Jammu
and Kashmir administration. expected to lift the quality of the sport played on
Indian pitches.
India tops list of doping offenders in 2022: WADA anti- • SISGrass designs, constructs and supplies hybrid
doping report and synthetic cricket match pitches and practice net
• According to the 2022 testing figures released by areas for a wide variety of organisations, including
the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), India has international cricket venues, local cricket clubs, schools
emerged as the country with the highest percentage and universities. It also offers comprehensive aftercare
of doping offenders. and maintenance services.
• The report revealed that out of 4,064 samples collected • SISGrass pitches are already successful at Lord’s and The
from Indian athletes (including urine, blood, and Oval. ‘The Universal’ machine, used in Dharamshala
for the hybrid pitch, will be taken to Ahmedabad and champion. He etched his name in the history books
Mumbai to create further such pitches. as the only Indian man to break into the top 10 in the
• The ‘Universal Machine’, used in Dharamshala to World rankings.
install the hybrid surface, was first developed by • Besides winning two gold medals in team events of
SISGrass in 2017. the Incheon and Hangzhou Asian Games, Ghosal
has three Commonwealth Games medals and also
Usain Bolt named ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024
bagged the yellow metal in the 2022 World Doubles
ambassador
Championships in mixed doubles in Glasgow.
• Usain Bolt, the fastest man on earth and Olympics
legend, has been named as an ambassador for the 2024 Asian U20 Athletics Championships
upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup. • The 2024 Asian U20 Athletics Championships is an
• The World Cup will be co-hosted by the West Indies international athletics competition for Asian under-20
and the United States from June 1 to 29, 2024. athletes. It was organised by the Asian Athletics
Association at the Dubai Police Club Stadium, United
Saurav Ghosal retired from professional Squash Arab Emirates.
• India’s finest men’s squash player Saurav Ghosal, • It served as a qualifying tournament for the 2024 World
announced his retirement from the professional circuit Athletics U20 Championships to be held in Lima, Peru.
after completing a glittering 22-year journey. Although
• China led the medal tally with a total of 27 medals,
he would continue representing the country at multi-
followed by Japan at 21 and India at 29.
discipline events for some more time.
• India won seven gold, eleven silver and eleven bronze
• He is a winner of 10 Professional Squash Association
medals.
(PSA) titles and a 13-time National men’s singles

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

 Banking, Finance and Economy News 9

 Books and Authors 17

 Days and Themes 17

 Reports, Rankings and Index 18

 Awards and Honours 20

Key Points Key Points

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Chief Minister – Vishnu Deo Sai Key Points

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DGCA’s Headquarters – New Delhi CoRover.ai unveils BharatGPT a GenAI as a service

Solutions, to support MSMEs and enhance working

Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge inaugurated by PM Key Points

BOOKS AND AUTHORS

DAYS AND THEMES

Date Day Theme

Date Day Theme

REPORTS, RANKINGS AND INDEX

AWARDS AND HONOURS

Filmfare Awards 2024 winners

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 Banking, Finance and Economy News 11

 Books and Authors 16

 Days and Themes 17

 Reports, Rankings and Index 18

 Awards and Honours 19

PM Modi inaugurates BAPS Mandir, the first Hindu Key Points

• The objectives of the mission include surface and

Large deposits of iron ore found in Karauli, Rajasthan Chairman – S Somnath

• The Rajasthan Mines department has started Headquarters – Bengaluru

• Japan also announced a significant aid package for

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Date Day Theme

February 18 World Whale Day

REPORTS, RANKINGS AND INDEX

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 Lok Sabha Elections 2024 3

 Banking, Finance and Economy News 12

 Books and Authors 19

 Days and Themes 20

 Reports, Rankings and Index 21

 Awards and Honours 24

LOK SABHA ELECTIONS 2024

from abusing their market power.

Iran launches Pars 1 satellite into orbit from Russia

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Key Points • The framework will enable exporters and importers to

scheme, aimed at supporting RRBs to maintain the Key Points

Jaideep Hansraj President of ‘One Kotak’

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