NEWS – 19 JUNE 2023
• Justice (retired) K Chandru's panel has made key recommendations to the Tamil Nadu government to curb caste-based violence in educational institutions. Recommendations include the removal of caste prefixes from school names, a Code of Conduct for school and university staff, keeping caste names off attendance registers, and appointing School Welfare Officers and counsellors. The panel, formed after a violent incident involving Dalit students, also suggests prohibiting students from displaying caste markers and promoting legislation for social inclusion and caste discrimination eradication
• Karnataka was ranked second in commissioning of new wind power projects in the country and received an honour for the same during the ‘Global Wind Day’ celebrations by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
• Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage
• Sri Lankan cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan plans to invest a total of ₹1,400 crore in phases to establish a beverages (soft drinks) and confectionery unit in Badanaguppe, Chamarajanagar district
• Scientists from India, China, and the U.K. have developed a water-repellent catalyst to significantly reduce the cost of producing biodiesel, with the process detailed in the Advanced Functional Materials journal. The team, including Dr. Samuel Lalthazuala Rokhum and his colleagues from NIT Silchar, NIT Rourkela, University of Cambridge, and Guizhou University, created a superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst that mimics natural water-repelling surfaces. This innovation prevents active site poisoning by water, enhancing the efficiency and reusability of the catalyst, which is derived from biomass and eco-friendly. The breakthrough could cut biodiesel production costs from $1.2 to 37 cents per litre, making sustainable energy more affordable and promoting broader adoption of biodiesel
• India’s Neeraj Chopra snared his maiden gold medal at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland
• The Indian Air Force will host an air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024 in August. It is a first multinational air exercise to be hosted by the Indian Air force.
• Ministry of External Affairs and the SBI have signed an MoU to provide an additional digital payment service of the bank through its payment gateway SBIePay to users of the eMigrate portal.
• Recently, researchers have discovered a rare species of bioluminescent mushrooms in the forests of Kasaragod which are scientifically known as Filoboletus manipularis
• The Empowered Programme Committee (EPC) of the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) has recently approved seven startup proposals under the GREAT scheme, which aims to support young innovators, scientists, technologists, and startups in Technical Textiles. The scheme, Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT), provides grants up to Rs 50 lakh for up to 18 months for the development and commercialization of technologies in this field. The National Technical Textiles Mission, launched to enhance India's global leadership in Technical Textiles, focuses on research, market development, export promotion, and skill development, with a four-year implementation period from FY 2020-21 to FY 2023-24 under the Ministry of Textiles
• The Post Office Act 2023 has come into effect from 18 June 2024, bringing significant changes to India's postal services. The Act grants the Director General of Postal Services the power to make regulations for additional services and charges without parliamentary approval. It also allows interception of shipments for state security and public order reasons. The Act introduces standards for address identifiers and postcodes, replaces physical addresses with digital codes, removes penalties for theft or misappropriation, and establishes charges for postal service users.
• Justice (retired) K Chandru's panel has made key recommendations to the Tamil Nadu government to curb caste-based violence in educational institutions. Recommendations include the removal of caste prefixes from school names, a Code of Conduct for school and university staff, keeping caste names off attendance registers, and appointing School Welfare Officers and counsellors. The panel, formed after a violent incident involving Dalit students, also suggests prohibiting students from displaying caste markers and promoting legislation for social inclusion and caste discrimination eradication
• Karnataka was ranked second in commissioning of new wind power projects in the country and received an honour for the same during the ‘Global Wind Day’ celebrations by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
• Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage
• Sri Lankan cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan plans to invest a total of ₹1,400 crore in phases to establish a beverages (soft drinks) and confectionery unit in Badanaguppe, Chamarajanagar district
• Scientists from India, China, and the U.K. have developed a water-repellent catalyst to significantly reduce the cost of producing biodiesel, with the process detailed in the Advanced Functional Materials journal. The team, including Dr. Samuel Lalthazuala Rokhum and his colleagues from NIT Silchar, NIT Rourkela, University of Cambridge, and Guizhou University, created a superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst that mimics natural water-repelling surfaces. This innovation prevents active site poisoning by water, enhancing the efficiency and reusability of the catalyst, which is derived from biomass and eco-friendly. The breakthrough could cut biodiesel production costs from $1.2 to 37 cents per litre, making sustainable energy more affordable and promoting broader adoption of biodiesel
• India’s Neeraj Chopra snared his maiden gold medal at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland
• The Indian Air Force will host an air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024 in August. It is a first multinational air exercise to be hosted by the Indian Air force.
• Ministry of External Affairs and the SBI have signed an MoU to provide an additional digital payment service of the bank through its payment gateway SBIePay to users of the eMigrate portal.
• Recently, researchers have discovered a rare species of bioluminescent mushrooms in the forests of Kasaragod which are scientifically known as Filoboletus manipularis
• The Empowered Programme Committee (EPC) of the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) has recently approved seven startup proposals under the GREAT scheme, which aims to support young innovators, scientists, technologists, and startups in Technical Textiles. The scheme, Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT), provides grants up to Rs 50 lakh for up to 18 months for the development and commercialization of technologies in this field. The National Technical Textiles Mission, launched to enhance India's global leadership in Technical Textiles, focuses on research, market development, export promotion, and skill development, with a four-year implementation period from FY 2020-21 to FY 2023-24 under the Ministry of Textiles
• The Post Office Act 2023 has come into effect from 18 June 2024, bringing significant changes to India's postal services. The Act grants the Director General of Postal Services the power to make regulations for additional services and charges without parliamentary approval. It also allows interception of shipments for state security and public order reasons. The Act introduces standards for address identifiers and postcodes, replaces physical addresses with digital codes, removes penalties for theft or misappropriation, and establishes charges for postal service users.
• An amount of $736.4 million will be allocated towards environment protection at the Global Environment Facility (GEF) council meeting being convened in Washington, DC. The GEF was established during the 1992 Rio Earth Summit to tackle pressing environmental problems. It focuses on biodiversity loss, climate change, pollution, and strains on land and ocean health, providing financial assistance for five major international environmental conventions. The GEF comprises 184 member countries, governed by a council of 32 members representing different constituencies. Its secretariat is based in Washington, D.C., and it operates a trust fund aimed at helping developing countries and economies in transition.
• NHAI aims to increase green cover along National Highways through Miyawaki plantations on adjacent land. Over 53 acres around Delhi-NCR have been identified, including sites on Haryana's Dwarka Expressway and Delhi-Vadodara Expressway. Ground preparation is ongoing, with plantation scheduled for the upcoming monsoon to be completed by August 2024. The Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1980s, focuses on dense, native, and biodiverse forests that grow quickly and offer ecological benefits. These plantations will enhance the environment, improve air and soil quality, and support biodiversity conservation.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage (NIIMH) as a WHO-Collaborating Centre for "Fundamental and Literary Research in Traditional Medicine." NIIMH, previously known as the National Center of Indian Medical Heritage, operates under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and was established on September 26, 1956. Located in Dilsukhnagar, Hyderabad, it is the only institute of its kind in Southeast Asia. The institute's mandate includes the revival and documentation of ancient medical texts, the establishment of a museum on the History of Medicine, and the development of international terminologies for traditional Indian medicine systems.
• The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) released a report on global investments in nuclear arsenals, highlighting continued modernization efforts and an increase in operational nuclear warheads globally. Key findings include rising global nuclear spending, particularly by the US, and the modernization efforts of nine nuclear-armed nations. Recent developments include Russia and Belarus conducting exercises for deploying tactical nuclear weapons, while global nuclear spending reached $91.4 billion in 2023. Operational warheads are primarily held by Russia and the US, with China showing signs of joining in high operational alert warheads. Transparency in nuclear forces has declined post-Russia's invasion of Ukraine, affecting global diplomatic discussions.
• NHAI aims to increase green cover along National Highways through Miyawaki plantations on adjacent land. Over 53 acres around Delhi-NCR have been identified, including sites on Haryana's Dwarka Expressway and Delhi-Vadodara Expressway. Ground preparation is ongoing, with plantation scheduled for the upcoming monsoon to be completed by August 2024. The Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1980s, focuses on dense, native, and biodiverse forests that grow quickly and offer ecological benefits. These plantations will enhance the environment, improve air and soil quality, and support biodiversity conservation.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage (NIIMH) as a WHO-Collaborating Centre for "Fundamental and Literary Research in Traditional Medicine." NIIMH, previously known as the National Center of Indian Medical Heritage, operates under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and was established on September 26, 1956. Located in Dilsukhnagar, Hyderabad, it is the only institute of its kind in Southeast Asia. The institute's mandate includes the revival and documentation of ancient medical texts, the establishment of a museum on the History of Medicine, and the development of international terminologies for traditional Indian medicine systems.
• The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) released a report on global investments in nuclear arsenals, highlighting continued modernization efforts and an increase in operational nuclear warheads globally. Key findings include rising global nuclear spending, particularly by the US, and the modernization efforts of nine nuclear-armed nations. Recent developments include Russia and Belarus conducting exercises for deploying tactical nuclear weapons, while global nuclear spending reached $91.4 billion in 2023. Operational warheads are primarily held by Russia and the US, with China showing signs of joining in high operational alert warheads. Transparency in nuclear forces has declined post-Russia's invasion of Ukraine, affecting global diplomatic discussions.
A rare celestial phenomenon known as a "double sun halo" was witnessed in the skies over Ladakh recently
HIGHLIGHTS
What is a Double Sun Halo?
• Variation of the 22-degree halo
• Two visible halos: inner (22 degrees) and outer (46 degrees)
• Formation due to ice crystal shapes and orientation
Formation of Double Sun Halo
• Role of ice crystals in cirrus clouds
• Hexagonal shape acting as natural prisms
• Refraction and reflection of sunlight creating halos
• Alignment of crystals for inner and outer halos
HIGHLIGHTS
What is a Double Sun Halo?
• Variation of the 22-degree halo
• Two visible halos: inner (22 degrees) and outer (46 degrees)
• Formation due to ice crystal shapes and orientation
Formation of Double Sun Halo
• Role of ice crystals in cirrus clouds
• Hexagonal shape acting as natural prisms
• Refraction and reflection of sunlight creating halos
• Alignment of crystals for inner and outer halos
NEWS – 20 JUNE 2024
• Air pollution caused 8.1 million deaths globally in 2021, with significant impacts in India (2.1 million deaths) and China (2.3 million deaths), accounting for 54% of the global disease burden, and was notably linked to child mortality and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) due to PM2.5 and ozone pollution, necessitating urgent action as highlighted by the Health Effects Institute and UNICEF
• Rohith Shankar and Sahana H Murthy won the U-19 boys’ and girls’ finals, respectively, in the 1st State Ranking table tennis tournament, with Rohith defeating Varun B Kashyap and Sahana beating Himanshi Chowdhary, after overcoming their semifinal opponents Teshub Dinesh and Preksha T Tilawat
• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Karnataka's goal of achieving 15-16% annual industrial growth to reach a $1 trillion GDP by 2032, with plans to promote balanced regional development and attract global investors through the Global Investor Meet 2025 and international roadshows. Large and Medium Industries Minister launched 'ventuRISE 2025', announced the drafting of Karnataka Industrial Policy 2025-2030 with top incentives to attract investors, and revealed plans for global roadshows and visits to Japan and South Korea to promote Karnataka’s manufacturing ecosystem and invite industry leaders for the Global Investors Meet.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University near its ancient ruins in Rajgir, Bihar, emphasizing Nalanda's role as a symbol of India's academic heritage and cultural exchange. He noted that the university, re-established by the Nalanda University Act of 2010 following decisions from East Asia Summits, had begun in 2014 with 14 students and started construction in 2017. The event was attended by representatives from many countries, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and 17 Ambassadors. Modi highlighted the renaissance of Nalanda University as showcasing India's potential and linking Asia's heritage. The ancient Nalanda, founded in the 5th century, thrived for 800 years before being destroyed in the 12th century.
• South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for a second full term as President after his weakened African National Congress (ANC) struck a hard-won government coalition deal to remain in power.
• Recently, health officials in Japan are on high alert after close to 1,000 cases of a deadly infection were reported across the country. The disease, known as Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS).
• Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India's Gopalpur regional centre recently discovered a new species of snake eel named 'Ophichthus Suryai' in Odisha.
• The Cabinet approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme with a budget of Rs. 2254.43 crore, focusing on establishing campuses and labs for forensic sciences, especially to meet increased demand due to new criminal laws and a shortage of trained personnel. This scheme aligns with India's aim of a 90%+ conviction rate by enhancing forensic capabilities and ensuring scientific examination of evidence.
• The Union Cabinet has greenlit the development of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, with a budget of Rs. 2869.65 Crore. The project aims to increase passenger capacity to 9.9 million per annum, including a new terminal, apron, runway extension, and taxi track. The airport design focuses on cultural heritage and sustainability, incorporating energy optimization, waste recycling, and solar energy utilization. Varanasi airport is set to become a model for environmental sustainability in aviation infrastructure.
• Air pollution caused 8.1 million deaths globally in 2021, with significant impacts in India (2.1 million deaths) and China (2.3 million deaths), accounting for 54% of the global disease burden, and was notably linked to child mortality and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) due to PM2.5 and ozone pollution, necessitating urgent action as highlighted by the Health Effects Institute and UNICEF
• Rohith Shankar and Sahana H Murthy won the U-19 boys’ and girls’ finals, respectively, in the 1st State Ranking table tennis tournament, with Rohith defeating Varun B Kashyap and Sahana beating Himanshi Chowdhary, after overcoming their semifinal opponents Teshub Dinesh and Preksha T Tilawat
• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Karnataka's goal of achieving 15-16% annual industrial growth to reach a $1 trillion GDP by 2032, with plans to promote balanced regional development and attract global investors through the Global Investor Meet 2025 and international roadshows. Large and Medium Industries Minister launched 'ventuRISE 2025', announced the drafting of Karnataka Industrial Policy 2025-2030 with top incentives to attract investors, and revealed plans for global roadshows and visits to Japan and South Korea to promote Karnataka’s manufacturing ecosystem and invite industry leaders for the Global Investors Meet.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University near its ancient ruins in Rajgir, Bihar, emphasizing Nalanda's role as a symbol of India's academic heritage and cultural exchange. He noted that the university, re-established by the Nalanda University Act of 2010 following decisions from East Asia Summits, had begun in 2014 with 14 students and started construction in 2017. The event was attended by representatives from many countries, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and 17 Ambassadors. Modi highlighted the renaissance of Nalanda University as showcasing India's potential and linking Asia's heritage. The ancient Nalanda, founded in the 5th century, thrived for 800 years before being destroyed in the 12th century.
• South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for a second full term as President after his weakened African National Congress (ANC) struck a hard-won government coalition deal to remain in power.
• Recently, health officials in Japan are on high alert after close to 1,000 cases of a deadly infection were reported across the country. The disease, known as Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS).
• Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India's Gopalpur regional centre recently discovered a new species of snake eel named 'Ophichthus Suryai' in Odisha.
• The Cabinet approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme with a budget of Rs. 2254.43 crore, focusing on establishing campuses and labs for forensic sciences, especially to meet increased demand due to new criminal laws and a shortage of trained personnel. This scheme aligns with India's aim of a 90%+ conviction rate by enhancing forensic capabilities and ensuring scientific examination of evidence.
• The Union Cabinet has greenlit the development of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, with a budget of Rs. 2869.65 Crore. The project aims to increase passenger capacity to 9.9 million per annum, including a new terminal, apron, runway extension, and taxi track. The airport design focuses on cultural heritage and sustainability, incorporating energy optimization, waste recycling, and solar energy utilization. Varanasi airport is set to become a model for environmental sustainability in aviation infrastructure.
• The Cabinet approved the development of a Greenfield deep draft Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra, with a total cost of Rs.76,220 Crore. This project, led by Vadhavan Port Project Limited (VPPL), aims to establish a top-tier global port. It will feature nine container terminals, four multipurpose berths, and modern infrastructure for efficient trade flow. Additionally, road and rail connectivity enhancements will be undertaken to support the port's operations. The project aligns with the PM Gati Shakti program and is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and boost economic activity in the region.
• Karnataka Transport Minister inaugurated a Command and Control Centre in Bengaluru for Vehicle Location Tracking (VLT) devices, aimed at enhancing security in public transport, especially for women and children. This initiative, part of the Nirbhaya Framework, mandates the installation of tracking systems in various types of vehicles. The system allows real-time tracking and alerts in case of emergencies, with a dedicated team for 24/7 monitoring.
• The Union Cabinet approved Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for Offshore Wind Energy Projects in India, with key components including installation and commissioning funds, port upgradation grants, and private sector involvement through transparent bidding. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will coordinate the implementation aligned with the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy (2015), aiming for economic benefits, CO2 emission reduction, and significant renewable electricity production.
• Prime Minister recognized over 30,000 self-help groups as Krishi Sakhis in Varanasi under the Krishi Sakhi Convergence Program (KSCP). The program empowers rural women as para-extension workers through certification courses and training modules covering agricultural practices, communication skills, and more. So far, 34,000 Krishi Sakhis have been certified, with training underway in 12 states and opportunities for employment in various agricultural schemes.
• The Union Cabinet raised the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 kharif crops, including paddy, following recommendations by the CACP. This increase aligns with the 1.5 times cost of production policy from the 2018 Union Budget. Notably, the hike comes amidst surplus rice stocks, political significance before state elections, and ongoing farmer protests.
• A "double sun halo," a rare celestial event, was observed in Ladakh, featuring an inner (22 degrees) and outer (46 degrees) halo formed by ice crystals refracting and reflecting sunlight. This phenomenon is significant for both its breathtaking beauty and scientific insights into atmospheric conditions and ice crystal properties, aiding in weather forecasting and atmospheric optics understanding.
• A 26-year-old writer from Vivek Nagar, Jakranpally mandal, Nizamabad district, received the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar for Telugu literature. The award, instituted in 2011, recognizes young writers under 35 in 24 languages for their original works. Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters, operates independently and was inaugurated in 1954.
• Karnataka Transport Minister inaugurated a Command and Control Centre in Bengaluru for Vehicle Location Tracking (VLT) devices, aimed at enhancing security in public transport, especially for women and children. This initiative, part of the Nirbhaya Framework, mandates the installation of tracking systems in various types of vehicles. The system allows real-time tracking and alerts in case of emergencies, with a dedicated team for 24/7 monitoring.
• The Union Cabinet approved Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for Offshore Wind Energy Projects in India, with key components including installation and commissioning funds, port upgradation grants, and private sector involvement through transparent bidding. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will coordinate the implementation aligned with the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy (2015), aiming for economic benefits, CO2 emission reduction, and significant renewable electricity production.
• Prime Minister recognized over 30,000 self-help groups as Krishi Sakhis in Varanasi under the Krishi Sakhi Convergence Program (KSCP). The program empowers rural women as para-extension workers through certification courses and training modules covering agricultural practices, communication skills, and more. So far, 34,000 Krishi Sakhis have been certified, with training underway in 12 states and opportunities for employment in various agricultural schemes.
• The Union Cabinet raised the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 kharif crops, including paddy, following recommendations by the CACP. This increase aligns with the 1.5 times cost of production policy from the 2018 Union Budget. Notably, the hike comes amidst surplus rice stocks, political significance before state elections, and ongoing farmer protests.
• A "double sun halo," a rare celestial event, was observed in Ladakh, featuring an inner (22 degrees) and outer (46 degrees) halo formed by ice crystals refracting and reflecting sunlight. This phenomenon is significant for both its breathtaking beauty and scientific insights into atmospheric conditions and ice crystal properties, aiding in weather forecasting and atmospheric optics understanding.
• A 26-year-old writer from Vivek Nagar, Jakranpally mandal, Nizamabad district, received the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar for Telugu literature. The award, instituted in 2011, recognizes young writers under 35 in 24 languages for their original works. Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters, operates independently and was inaugurated in 1954.
Mudgal Fort: A Historic Landmark
Historic Significance
1. Mudgal Fort's 1000-year history spans various dynasties like Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Deccan Sultanate, and Vijayanagara Empire.
2. It gained prominence during the Bahmani Sultans and witnessed clashes between Vijayanagara Empire and Adil Shahi Sultanate.
Strategic Importance
1. Located on the border of Adil Shahi and Vijayanagara empires, it controlled the Raichur Doab between Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers.
2. Rich in agricultural and mineral resources, it was a strategic military outpost for both empires.
Architectural Marvel
1. The fort showcases mixed architectural styles and traditions, depicting peaceful coexistence.
2. It houses Ranganathaswamy Temple and Hussain Alam Dargah, demonstrating harmony between Hindus and Muslims.
Defensive Structures
1. Robust defensive walls, bastions, and watchtowers designed for sieges and attacks.
2. Gates like Fateh Darwaza and zig-zag passages for defense against enemy forces.
Cultural Significance
1. Mudgal Fort hosts Muharram celebrations, attracting Hindus and Muslims for religious observances and cultural activities.
2. Tazia processions symbolize unity and mutual respect among communities.
Historic Significance
1. Mudgal Fort's 1000-year history spans various dynasties like Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Deccan Sultanate, and Vijayanagara Empire.
2. It gained prominence during the Bahmani Sultans and witnessed clashes between Vijayanagara Empire and Adil Shahi Sultanate.
Strategic Importance
1. Located on the border of Adil Shahi and Vijayanagara empires, it controlled the Raichur Doab between Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers.
2. Rich in agricultural and mineral resources, it was a strategic military outpost for both empires.
Architectural Marvel
1. The fort showcases mixed architectural styles and traditions, depicting peaceful coexistence.
2. It houses Ranganathaswamy Temple and Hussain Alam Dargah, demonstrating harmony between Hindus and Muslims.
Defensive Structures
1. Robust defensive walls, bastions, and watchtowers designed for sieges and attacks.
2. Gates like Fateh Darwaza and zig-zag passages for defense against enemy forces.
Cultural Significance
1. Mudgal Fort hosts Muharram celebrations, attracting Hindus and Muslims for religious observances and cultural activities.
2. Tazia processions symbolize unity and mutual respect among communities.