Current Affairs | National | International | SSC | UPSC - 1st September 2023

                            

                            National News 

1. ADB and Fourth Partner Energy Collaborate for Solar Power Plant in Tamil Nadu

• A collaboration between ADB and Fourth Partner Energy for solar power plant in Tamil Nadu is a significant step towards promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. It will contribute to sustainable development in the region.
• The power plant, located in *Tirunelveli district in Tamil Nadu, India, is expected to generate about 50.7 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually and will directly sell power to commercial and industrial users. India’s progressive open-access renewable energy policy allows consumers to purchase electricity directly from an Independent Power Producer (IPP). 
• Nearly 41,700 tons of carbon dioxide emissions a year will be avoided through the plant, which would otherwise have been generated by conventional fossil fuel plants.
• ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable in Asia and the Pacific while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it Is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.   

Recent Loan Approved by ADB

• ADB approves USD 40.5 million loan for childhood development in Meghalaya.
• India, ADB signed $200 million loan deal to enhance urban services in Rajasthan. 
• India, ADB signed $130 million loan MoU to boost horticulture in Himachal Pradesh.
• India, ADB signed $295 million loan pact to upgrade the state highways in Bihar.
• India, ADB signed $200 million loan deal to enhance urban services in Rajasthan.

2. ISRO-developed device for fishers’ safety successfully tested at Neendakara 

• Nabhmitra’, a device developed by ISRO-Space Applications Centre (Ahmedabad) for the safety of fishermen, was successfully tested at Neendakara on Saturday.
• The satellite-based communication system enables two-way messaging services from and to the sea. While weather and cyclone warnings will be communicated in the local language, the boats can also send distress messages to the authorities. In emergency situations like capsizing and fire, fishers can press a button on the device and get in touch with the control centre. While the control centre will receive the alert including the location of the boat, the crew on the boat will get a response message from the control centre.
• Apart from providing information about shipping channels and maritime boundaries, the device will also help to identify fishing fields. The device was installed on a fishing vessel in Neendakara and tested in the presence of scientists and Fisheries department officials. 

About Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)

• Founded – 15 August 1969 
• Headquarters – Bangalore, Karnataka 
• Founder / 1st Chairman – Vikram Sarabhai 
• 10th Chairman – S Somanath 
• Aryabhata India’s first satellites Launched on 19 April 1975 

3. NITI Aayog and UNDP have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on fast-tracking SDGs

• NITI Aayog and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise a framework of cooperation on a number of areas, including Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) localization, data-driven monitoring, Aspirational Districts and Blocks, among others. This reaffirms a shared commitment to accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Mr. B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog, witnessed the signing of the MoU by Dr. Yogesh Suri, Senior Advisor (SDGs), and Ms. Shoko Noda, Resident Representative, UNDP India.
• Mr. B.V.R. Subrahmanyam said, “Over the years, NITI Aayog and UNDP’s collaboration has grown from strength to strength. With monitoring going beyond districts down to the block level, we see this partnership fostering data-driven policy interventions and programmatic action. Standing at the midpoint of the 2030 agenda, we look forward to working together with the States in the true spirit of cooperative federalism.” 
• UNDP’s commitment Ms. Shoko Noda, Resident Representative, UNDP India said, “Midway to 2030, India’s leadership is critical for making the SDGs a reality. India nearly halved multidimensional poverty between 2015- 16 and 2019-2021, demonstrating that despite complex challenges, accelerating progress towards the Goals is possible.”  

Recent MoU

• AICTE partnered with Jio Institute for faculty development programme.
• BHEL signs MoU with Greenstat to explore opportunities in Hydrogen value chain.
• Voyager Space signed MoU with New Space India Limited (NSIL) to foster collaboration in Spacecraft launch.
• Defense ministry signs with HAL to upgrade Dornier Aircraft for ICG. 
• GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL to produce fighter jet engines. 

4. Centre launches ‘Awareness Campaign and Training of Trainers’ Initiative 

• Centre Launches ‘Awareness Campaign And Training Of Trainers’ Initiative: Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda has inaugurated the ‘Awareness Campaign and Training of Trainers’ initiative.
• Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Arjun Munda has launched the ‘Awareness Campaign and Training of Trainers’ as a part of the ‘Mission for Elimination of Sickle Cell Anaemia’ in New Delhi.
• Aim: To educate grassroots workers and enable them to raise awareness about sickle cell anaemia, particularly in tribal regions.
• The government aims to eradicate the disease by 2047, under its National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission targets.

5. India to host 1st edition of ‘Global IndiaAl 2023’ in October 2023

• India is going to host the first edition of the Global India AI 2023 Conference in October this year. It will provide a unique platform for deliberation on various topics including next-generation learning and foundational artificial intelligence models, AI applications in healthcare, governance, electric vehicles, and computing systems. Several leading players and experts in artificial intelligence, researchers, startups, and investors will participate in the conference. 
• Speaking about the conference, Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar said, the government’s vision is to gather the world’s best and brightest minds under one roof to deliberate the future of AI and its impact in several sectors. He said, the India AI summit will also catalyze the country’s AI landscape and innovation ecosystem.
• The conference will also serve as a showcase for the vibrant India AI ecosystem that comprises key initiatives such as DI Bhashini, India Datasets Program, India AI Future design program for startups, and India AI Future Skills program dedicated to nurturing world-class AI talent pools.

6. India’s Largest Home-Built Nuclear Plant Starts Operations

• In a significant development for India’s energy sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the 700 MW nuclear power plant located in Kakrapar, Gujarat, has commenced its operations at maximum capacity. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in India’s quest for energy selfsufficiency and underscores the nation’s commitment to harnessing indigenous nuclear technology.
• The Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) had initiated its commercial operations on June 30, 2023, but initially operated at only 90 percent of its capacity. On August 31, 2023, the plant finally achieved its full operational potential. 
• The Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant is a testament to India’s capability in developing and operating nuclear power facilities entirely on its own. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has been at the forefront of this endeavor. 
• Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is responsible for constructing two 700 MW pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) at Kakrapar, Gujarat. Kakrapar is already home to two 220 MW power plants, and with the new 700 MW unit coming online, it strengthens India’s nuclear power generation capacity. 
• The NPCIL currently operates 23 commercial nuclear power reactors across the country. Moreover, the organization has plans to build a total of 16 700 MW PHWRs at various locations in India. Financial and administrative sanctions have reportedly been granted for these ambitious projects, emphasizing India’s drive to expand its nuclear power capacity. 

7. Union Minister Piyush Goyal Unveils Statue of First Finance Minister of Independent India 

• Union Minister of Textiles, Piyush Goyal, today, unveiled the statue of the First Finance Minister of the Independent India RK Shanmugam Chetty at the South Indian Mills Association complex (SIMA) in Coimbatore. 
• Union Minister of State for Railways and Textiles, Smt Darshana V. Jhardosh, Coimbatore South MLA, Smt Vanathi Srinivasan, and senior executives of the South Indian Mills Association were also present on the occasion.
• R K Shanmugam Chetty was a driving force behind the establishment of the South Indian Mills Association, an organization that has played a pivotal role in shaping the Textile industry in South India. It is a distinguished organization dedicated to promoting the interests of the Textile industry in the southern region of the country. Founded by RK Shanmugam Chetty, it continues to be a pivotal player in fostering growth and innovation within the sector.

8. Cabinet okays PRIP scheme to boost research and innovation

• The Union Health Ministry has announced an ambitious plan to boost research and innovation in the pharmaceutical and medtech sectors. To achieve this goal, they have introduced the Promotion of Research & Innovation in Pharma-MedTech sector (PRIP) scheme, which has been approved by the Union Cabinet. The scheme was rolled out earlier this month by the government with the belief that the Indian pharmaceutical industry has the potential to increase its current 3.4 per cent share of the global market to 5 per cent by the year 2030. 
• The Union Health Ministry has announced a plan to invest ₹700 crore in creating seven Centres of Excellence at various National Institutes of Pharmaceutical, Education & Research (NIPER) to boost research and innovation in the pharma and medtech sector.
• The scheme, called Promotion of Research & Innovation in PharmaMedTech sector (PRIP), will be launched in September and will have a duration of five years, from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
• The Centre will also provide ₹4,250 crore to support research in the private sector through milestone-based funding. The Centre may also acquire equity stakes of 5-10% in these private entities in exchange for the funding. 
• The scheme aims to enhance the capacity of PSUs and encourage private sector participation in research.
• The scheme’s two components, dedicated funding for the National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPERs) and support for the private sector aim to address critical challenges and promote growth in these sectors.  

The National Policy focuses on three key areas:

• strengthening the regulatory framework, 
• incentivising investment in innovation, and 
• enabling an ecosystem for innovation and research.

9. Sagar Parikrama Phase-VIII commenced on 31 August 2023 at Thengapattanam Fishing Harbour in Kanyakumari district

• The commencement of Sagar Parikrama Phase-VIII is set to take place today at Thengapattanam Fishing Harbour in Kanyakumari district, where Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, and Minister of State, Dr L Murugan, will jointly inaugurate the event. This particular phase of Sagar Parikrama will encompass an exploration of four coastal districts in Tamil Nadu, namely Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Ramanathapuram. 
• The Tamil Nadu segment of Sagar Parikrama, commencing today, will entail a journey through four districts over the next three days, concluding on the second of September 2023.
• On the last day of the Yatra, the Minister will lay the foundation stone for the Integrated Seaweed Park at Valamavur in Thondi, Ramanathapuram district. A Tamil song on Sagar Parikrama will also be launched. 
• While embarking on the Sagar Parikrama voyage across four coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, certificates and sanctions associated with the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), Kisan Credit Card (KCC), as well as State Schemes, will be distributed to progressive fishermen, specifically those engaged in coastal fishing, fish cultivation, and emerging fishery entrepreneurs. Comprehensive information about the PMMSY initiative, State schemes, e-shram, FIDF, and KCC will be extensively distributed through print and electronic media, videos, and a digital campaign utilizing catchy jingles. This widespread promotion aims to enhance fishermen's awareness and understanding of these schemes and their associated advantages. 
• District officials and Senior officials from Department of Fisheries, Government of India and from State Government, National Fisheries Development Board, Indian Coast Guard, Fishery Survey of India, National Institute of Fisheries Post Harvest Technology and Training, Central Institute of Fisheries Nautical & Engineering Training and fishermen will participate in the Sagar Parikrama awareness campaign for three days.  

10. The government has approved startup guidelines dedicated to technical textiles

• The Ministry of Textiles has approved the "Startup Guidelines for Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT)". 
• It will provide grant-in-aid up to INR 50 Lakhs for Technical Textiles for up to for a period of 18 months. 
• The guidelines focus on supporting individuals and companies to translate prototypes of technologies and products, including commercialization with an emphasis on developing startup ecosystems in technical textiles. 
• The GREAT guidelines provide emphasis on application areas of technical textiles including agro-textiles, mobile textiles, development of high-performance fibers and composites, and smart textiles using Artificial Intelligence, etc. 
• To encourage the incubators, the ministry will provide an additional 10% of the total grant-in-aid to the incubators.
• To strengthen authenticity and commitment towards the project, it is mandatory for Incubators to invest a minimum of 10% of the funding in two equal tranches. 
• The Ministry has also approved 26 Institutes to upgrade their laboratory infrastructure and training of trainers in the application areas of technical textiles. 
• The Ministry has approved the applications of 26 institutions for staring technical textiles courses/papers in key departments/specialties and new degree programs in technical textiles. For this, approval of Rs 151.02 crore was given, of which 15 applications worth Rs 105.55 crore are from public institutions and 11 applications worth Rs 45.47 crore are from private institutions. 
• Some of the prominent institutes that are funded under this scheme include IIT Delhi, NIT Jalandhar, NIT Durgapur NIT Karnataka, NIFT Mumbai, ICT Mumbai, Anna University, PSG College of Technology. Amity University.

                            STATE NEWS

11. Nagaland Becomes First State in North-eastern Region to Initiate Aadhaar Linked Birth Registration

• Nagaland has taken a pioneering step in the North Eastern region by launching the Aadhaar-Linked Birth Registration (ALBR) system. This ground-breaking initiative focuses on simplifying the procedures of birth registration and Aadhaar enrollment for children aged 0 to 5 years. 
• The commencement of the launch was formally led by Commissioner T Mhabemo Yanthan. During the launch event, there was a live demonstration that resulted in the successful registration of two new-born infants. This achievement represents a noteworthy advancement in guaranteeing that every child can rightfully access social welfare services. 
• One of the paramount benefits of the ALBR system is the conferment of a unique identity upon infants. This unique identity not only ensures proper tracking of essential services such as immunization, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), education, and various social welfare provisions but also brings ease and efficiency to parents and concerned departments alike.
• To ensure the successful implementation of the ALBR system and its accessibility across different districts, the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Nagaland, which also functions as the Registrar for Birth and Death for the state, has been integrated into the UIDAI ecosystem. This integration enables the directorate to function as a Registrar cum Enrolment Agency, entrusted with conducting child enrolment through the ALBR process. 
• With the ALBR initiative now in motion, This ground-breaking endeavor is set to benefit children in their formative years and contribute to the realization of their rights and entitlements, ensuring a brighter future for the state’s youngest citizens.

12. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah launched ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ scheme

• The Karnataka government has launched the ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ women’s financial aid scheme in Mysuru. 
• Under this scheme, about 1.1 crore women heads of family will get Rs 2,000 every month.
• The Karnataka government has earmarked ₹17,500 crore for the ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ programme in the current financial year. 
• Gruha Lakshmi scheme is one of the five pre-polls ‘guarantees’ of the Congress. 
• Karnataka government has already implemented three of the five ‘guarantees’ (pre-poll promises) — ‘Shakti’, ‘Gruha Jyothi’ and ‘Anna Bhagya’ — and ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ is the fourth one.
• The fifth one is the ‘Yuva Nidhi’ scheme that promises to provide unemployment allowance to the state’s youth.  

About Karnataka

• Capital – Bengaluru 
• Chief Minister –Siddaramaiah 
• Deputy Chief Minister – DK Shivakumar
• Governor – Thawar Chand Gehlot

13. Gujarat announced 27% reservation for OBCs in local bodies like panchayat

• Bhupendra Patel-led Gujarat government has announced 27 percent reservation for OBCs in elections to local self-governance institutes while maintaining quotas for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.
• Earlier, only 10 percent of seats in local bodies such as village panchayats and municipalities were reserved for OBC candidates.
• Complying with the directive of the Supreme Court, the state had constituted Justice KS Zaveri Commission fix reservations for OBC communities in the local bodies. The commission submitted its report to the government in April this year. 
• The five-year tenure of 7,100-gram panchayats, 75 Nagar Palikas, two district panchayats and 19 taluka panchayats has ended. The State Election Commission has appointed administrators to oversee the work of these bodies.
• The OBC community is about 52 percent of the population in Gujarat, while there are more than 146 castes classified in OBC in Gujarat, and now more than 50 MLAs in BJP belong to the OBC community. 

About Gujarat

• Capital- Gandhinagar 
• Chief Minister- Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel
• Governor- Acharya Devvrat 

14. Tripura to set up pink toilets for women

• The Tripura government has initiated efforts to install pink toilets for women in urban areas, Chief Minister Manik Saha said. 
• Asserting that the BJP-IPFT government has been giving priority to women’s safety and comfort, he said the number of self-help groups (SHGs) has risen from over 4,000 in 2018 to 50,000 in 2022. 
• “We will set up pink toilets for women in urban areas and an outlay (for it) has been earmarked in the budget,” he told reporters here. 
• “Be it domestic violence or some other crime against women, our government takes prompt action. CCTV cameras are installed across the city, and I keep a close eye on the functioning of these electronic gadgets,” he said.
• Saha said he had last year promised to make education free for girl students up to the college level, and “it has been implemented”. 
• “Thirty-three per cent reservation for women in government jobs, and 50 per cent reservation for them to operate shops in government shopping complexes are some of the steps taken by us towards women empowerment,” the chief minister said.
• He also said that the state government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy on drug trafficking and infiltration. 

About Tripura 

• Capital – Agartala 
• Chief Minister – Manik Sarkar 
• Governor – Satyadeo Narain Arya  

15. President Draupadi Murmu launches “Year of Positive Change” in Raipur

• President Draupadi Murmu launched the state level program of “Year of Positive Change” at Prajapita Brahmakumari Ishwariya Vishwavidyalaya in Raipur on 31 august 2023. 
• Chhattisgarh Governor Biswabhusan Hari Chandan and Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel were also present on the occasion. 
• The President reached Raipur this morning on his two-day visit to Chhattisgarh. The President will attend various programs in Raipur and Bilaspur during these two days. The President will attend the convocation ceremony of Guru Ghasidas Central University, Bilaspur tomorrow. Apart from this, tomorrow she will also meet the representatives of the primitive tribal community in Raipur.

                INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

16. Russia Launches Islamic Banking Pilot Program: Exploring Shariah-based Finance 

• Russia is set to embark on a historic journey by launching its first Islamic banking pilot program on September 1. 
• With a considerable Muslim population of approximately 25 million, the move aims to tap into the potential of Islamic finance, which has already had a presence through institutions but lacked official recognition. 
• Islamic banking operates on the principles of Shariah, the Islamic legal system that prohibits usurious transactions and interest charges due to their perceived injustice. This fundamental difference sets it apart from conventional banking practices.

17. Gabon Military Seizes Power Following Disputed Election: A Series of Coups in West and Central Africa 

• Gabon, an oil-producing country in Central Africa, has experienced a coup led by military officers. President Ali Bongo was placed under house arrest after being declared the winner of a disputed election.
• This marks the eighth coup in West and Central Africa since 2020, reflecting a trend of democratic setbacks in the region. Military officers announced the seizure of power, canceling election results and dissolving state institutions. 
• The officers declared President Bongo’s victory invalid and placed him under house arrest. General Brice Oligui Nguema was appointed as the new leader through a unanimous vote by generals. 
• Army officers said that the election results were voided, and all borders have been shut.
• All government bodies have been dissolved including both houses of parliament. Bongo has been placed under house arrest surrounded by "family and doctors" 
• Gen. Brice Oliqui Nguema, who was once the bodyguard of Bongo's late father, chosen as a transitional leader. 
• Gabon is a one of Africa's major oil producers. It was a French Colony.
• The African Union has suspended Gabon's participation in all of its activities after the military coup. 

Gabon:

• It is a country on the west coast of Central Africa.
• It shares a border with Guinea, Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo and the Gulf of Guinea. 
• Libreville is the Capital and the Central African CFA franc is the currency. 

18. India and New Zealand signs a MoU to boost cooperation in civil aviation.

• India and New Zealand have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost cooperation in civil aviation. 
• This will cover the scheduling of new routes, codeshare services, traffic rights, and capacity entitlement.
• The MoU was signed by Civil Aviation Secretary, Rajiv Bansal and the New Zealand High Commissioner David Pine in New Delhi. 
• According to the MoU, the designated airlines of New Zealand may operate any number of services with any type of aircraft, with third and fourth freedom traffic rights to and from six points in India, namely New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. 
• The designated airlines of India may operate any number of services with any type of aircraft with third and fourth freedom traffic rights to and from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. 

About New Zealand 

• Capital – Wellington 
• Currency – Dollar 
• Prime Minister – Chris Hipkins 

Recently India signed MoUs with others countries 

• ICG signs MoU with Philippine Coast Guard to enhance maritime cooperation. 
• India signs MoU with Trinidad and Tobago on sharing INDIA STACK.
• India and Laos sign MOUs for five quick impact projects in education, health, water facility, and IT.
• India & Argentina signs MoU for bilateral exchange of young researchers. 
• India & Sri Lanka sign MoU on cooperation in field of renewable energy. 

        APPOINTMENT AND RESIGNATION

19. Umesh Revankar appointed as chairman of FIDC

• The Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC) has appointed Umesh Revankar as its new chairman.
• FIDC is the representative body for asset and loan financing of Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs).
• The managing committee elected Revankar unanimously during a meeting held in Mumbai. 
• He currently holds the position of executive vice chairman for Shriram Finance and has decades of experience and expertise in the financial services industry.
• He played a pivotal role in making Shriram Transport Finance Company the largest commercial vehicle financer in India. 

20. Geetika Srivastava is first woman to head Indian mission in Pakistan

• A 2005 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, Geetika Srivastava will be India’s new charge d’Affaires at its high commission in Islamabad.
• Geetika, who is currently serving as the Joint Secretary at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is the first woman to head India’s mission in Pakistan. 
• Geetika is currently handling the Indo-Pacific division in MEA and will succeed Dr M Suresh Kumar, who is expected to return to India soon. 
• From 2007 to 2009, Geetika served in the Indian Embassy in China where she mastered Mandarin language. She has also had stints at the Regional Passport Office in Kolkata and has been the director of the Indian Ocean region division in the foreign ministry. 
• New Delhi and Islamabad haven’t had high commissioners since August 2019 after Pakistan downgraded the diplomatic relations between the two nations following the abrogation of Article 370, which granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir. 

Recent Appointment 

• First Woman field Director of Kaziranga NP – Dr Sonali Ghosh (replace Jatindra Sarma) 
• New country chair of Shell India – Mansi Madan Tripathy (replace Nitin Prasad) 
• Chairman of Smart eMobility – Manoj Kohli 
• CEO of Viacom 18 for digital business – Kiran Mani
• Part-time chairperson of UIDAI – Neelkanth Mishra 

21. Jaya Varma Sinha appointed as first woman Chairman of Railway Board 

• The Secretariat of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has appointed Jaya Verma Sinha as the first woman CEO and chairperson of the Railway Board. 
• She succeeds Anil Kumar Lahoti.
• Sinha as the CEO and Chairperson of the Railway Board, making her the first woman to ever hold that post in the Ministry of Railways’ 105-year-old history. Vijay Laxmi Vishwanathan was the first female member of the Railway Board. 
• Ms Sinha, an alumnus of Allahabad University, joined the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) in 1986 and worked in three railway zones: Northern Railway, South Eastern Railway, and Eastern Railway. 
• Her tenure will end on August 31, 2024. 
• Ms Sinha was the public face of the railways in the wake of the tragic Balasore accident, that killed nearly 300 people in Odisha, explaining the complex signaling system to the media. 
• During her four-year tenure as Railway Advisor in the High Commission of India in Dhaka, Bangladesh, she played a key role in the inauguration of the Maitree Express, a train service that connects Kolkata and Dhaka.  

 

                                DEFENCE

22. Army signs deals for 130 tethered drones and 19 tank-driving simulators

• The Army has signed contracts for the procurement of 130 tethered drones and 19 tank-driving simulators under Emergency Procurement (EP) and they will be delivered in 12 months.
• The armed forces are currently executing the fourth tranche of EPs sanctioned by the Defence Ministry. 
• Indian Army has signed the contract for procurement of 130 Tethered Drones and 19 Tank Driving Simulators. The induction of such new equipment will enhance the overall operational preparedness. 
• The long-endurance tether drone systems are contracted at an approximate value of ₹250 crore and can be used in highaltitude areas. 
• In the last few months, the Army has issued several tenders for a range of drones and technologies including logistics, load-carrying drones, anti-drone systems, and loitering munitions, among others.
• In the last three years, in the backdrop of the stand-off in Eastern Ladakh, the Army had also concluded a series of contracts with Indian start-ups for small drones for surveillance and load-carrying. 
• Under the fourth tranche of EP, the Army has so far signed 49 contracts worth ₹7,600 crore and another 34 contracts of similar amount are lined up and expected to be concluded by end-September, as reported earlier.  

                        IMPORTANT DAYS 

23. 31 August 2023 – World Sanskrit Day 

• In a bid to honour one of the world’s oldest known languages, every year World Sanskrit Day is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu calendar month of Shravan or Sawan month. 
• This year World Sanskrit Day, which is also known as World Sanskrit Diwas, is being observed on August 31. 
• The celebration of the day aims at the awareness and promotion of Sanskrit language. Apart from this, the celebrations also mark the sanctity and divinity of the language, which is also considered the Dev Vani (language of the Gods).
• Sanskrit has also been used to write some crucial scriptures in Hinduism like Vedas, Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita. Many believe that Sanskrit was created and passed on by Lord Brahma to rishis.
• The celebration of Sanskrit Day and Sanskrit Diwas was declared by the government of India in 1969. The day was supposed to be a tribute to the work of the renowned Sanskrit scholar Paṇini and his legacy. 
• This is why, annually World Sanskrit Day is observed on the birth anniversary of Panini, whose contribution to the evolution of the language stands significant and unmatched till date.
• The first World Sanskrit Day was celebrated in 1969.

24. 1 to 7 September – National Nutrition Week (NNW)

• National Nutrition Week (NNW) is observed annually in India from September 1 to 7. 
• This dedicated week aims to raise awareness among people about the vital role of nutrition and the significance of cultivating healthy eating habits. 
• Throughout National Nutrition Week, several seminars, workshops, educational programmes, conferences, and public awareness campaigns are organized across the country.
• These activities are designed to educate people about the advantages of maintaining a balanced diet, the positive impact of proper nutrition, ways to prevent diseases linked to poor dietary habits, and strategies to overcome nutritional deficiencies. 
• The theme of Nutrition Month 2023, according to UNICEF, is “Healthy Diet Going Affordable for All”. 

                        BUSINESS NEWS 

25. Viacom 18 Secures BCCI TV and Digital Media Rights in a 5-Year Deal Worth Rs 5,963 Crore

• Viacom 18, a Reliance-owned media outlet, has emerged victorious in the auction for media rights, encompassing both digital and TV broadcasting, of India’s domestic matches and BCCI-hosted domestic tournaments for the next five years. 
• For the 88 matches scheduled between 2023 and 2028, the BCCI set a base price of Rs 20 crore per match for TV rights and Rs 25 crore per match for digital rights, totaling Rs 3,960 crore. 
• Viacom 18 secured digital rights for approximately Rs 3,101 crore. TV rights were acquired for approximately Rs 2,862 crore. The combined deal amounts to approximately Rs 5,963 crore. 

                        BANKING NEWS 

26. PNB Launches App to Enable MSMEs Access Instant Loans Using GST Invoices 

• Punjab National Bank (PNB) has become the first public sector bank to facilitate effortless credit availability for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) via GST invoices. 
• The bank has unveiled a dedicated mobile application for the GST Sahay scheme. This innovative digital solution facilitates comprehensive lending procedures based on GST invoices, ensuring a seamless end-to-end process. 
• The newly launched PNB GST Sahay App transforms the entire loan application process into a digital format, eliminating the need for manual intervention on the borrower’s part. The app streamlines the process, rendering it more cost-effective, expeditious, and efficient. Notably, the sanctioned loan amount will be directly deposited into the borrower’s current account maintained with the bank. 

27. YES, Bank goes live with UPI interoperability on CBDC 

• YES Bank, announced a significant development in the digital currency space by launching UPI interoperability on the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) app. 
• Users can now seamlessly scan any UPI QR code through the YES Bank Digital Rupee app, simplifying transactions and making digital payments more accessible and user-friendly.
• By integrating the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) with UPI QR codes, the e-rupee gains a broader platform, positioning itself as a staple in daily transactions. This strategic move not only strengthens the e-rupee but also seamlessly integrates it with the widely-adopted UPI system, which boasts an overall merchant base of 150 million. 

                        ECONOMIC NEWS 

28. India’s GDP growth accelerates to 7.8% in April-June quarter

• In a significant economic development, India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) demonstrated robust growth, surging to 7.8% in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2023-2024, compared to a 6.1% growth rate recorded in the preceding January-March quarter of the fiscal year 2022-23. 
• The GDP growth rate of 7.8% aligns closely with the projections made by financial experts, who had estimated a growth rate of 7.7% for the fourth quarter. However, there is anticipation in the economic community that India’s Q1 GDP may surpass the 8% forecast set by the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), chaired by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das. 
• RBI’s MPC had earlier projected India’s real GDP growth for the entire fiscal year 2023-24 at 6.5%, with the Q1 growth rate estimated at 8%. The actual Q1 figures suggest that the economy is on a path that could potentially outperform these expectations, which is an encouraging sign for policymakers and investors alike. 

        SCHEMES AND COMMITTEES NEWS 

29. India Forms Committee to Explore Possibility Of One Nation, One Election’: Report 

• On 1st September, the Indian government announced the formation of a committee led by former President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, to delve into the feasibility of ‘One Nation, One Election.’ 
• ‘One Nation, One Election is a concept aimed at synchronizing elections for the Lok Sabha (the lower house of India’s Parliament) and all state assemblies. The central idea is to hold these elections simultaneously, either on a single day or within a specific time frame. 
• This proposal has garnered strong support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the government’s seriousness as a series of elections loom on the horizon. Notably, assembly polls in five states are scheduled for November or December this year, followed by the expected Lok Sabha elections in May-June 2024. 

                MISCELLANEOUS NEWS 

30. Bhaderwah Rajma & Ramban Sulai Honey of Jammu and Kashmir Get GI Tag 

• Bhaderwah Rajmash and Sulai honey, both hailing from the picturesque districts of Doda and Ramban in Jammu and Kashmir, have been granted coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. 
• Bhaderwah Rajmash, often referred to as red beans holds a special place in the hearts and palates of those in the Chenab Valley. With its distinct flavor and texture, this legume is not only a staple food item but also a cultural symbol of the region. 
• The Sulai honey of Ramban district has gained recognition not only for its exquisite taste but also for its organic nature. In fact, in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented organic Sulai honey to Queen Elizabeth during his visit to Britain, showcasing the region’s natural bounty to the world. 

                        AWARD NEWS 

31. 65th Ramon Magsaysay Awards 2023 Winners List 

• The Surgical oncologist Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called the ‘Nobel Prize of Asia’, is a notable accolade that represents exceptional spirit and influential leadership.
• This year, in the ceremony’s 65th edition, four Asians were given the Ramon Magsaysay Award, joining the ranks of Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, Mother Teresa, Dalai Lama, Satyajit Ray, and many others.
• They are Korvi Rakshand from Bangladesh, Eugenio Lemos from Timor-Leste, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer from the Philippines, and Dr Ravi Kannan R. from India. The award carries a certificate, a medallion bearing the likeness of the late President, and a cash prize of USD 50,000. 
• He has been awarded for revolutionising cancer treatment in Assam through people-centric and pro-poor healthcare. R. Ravi Kannan is the Director of the Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) in Assam Under Dr. Kannan's leadership, the Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) became a full-fledged comprehensive cancer hospital and research centre. 
• The hospital now has 28 departments including oncology, pathology, radiology, microbiology, epidemiology, etc.
• The CCHRC provides free or subsidised cancer care treatment to around 5 Lakh patients annually. 
• Other winners of the 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Award:

• The award is given annually to individuals or organizations in the Asia region for philanthropy and social service. 
• It was established in 1957 in memory of Ramon Magsaysay, the third President of the Philippines. 

        INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENERGY 

32. Kolkata Metro Railway is transitioning from a conventional steel Third Rail system to a composite aluminium third rail system 

• With this, Kolkata Metro has joined the elite club of London, Moscow, and Munich metros using this system. 
• Kolkata Metro has relied on the steel Third Rail system to supply power to its rolling stock for nearly four decades. 
• It will shift to a composite aluminium third rall system in three phases. 
• In the first phase, the replacement process of the Third Rail system along the Dumdum to Shyambazar section will be carried out. 
• The second phase will cover the Shyambazar to Central and JD Park to Tollygunge sections. 
• In the third phase, the transition will be carried out from Mahanayak Uttam Kumar (Tollygunge) to Kavi Subhash (New Garia). 

The advantages of the aluminium composite third rail system over its steel counterpart are given below. 

• It reduces resistive current loss and results in Improved traction voltage levels. 
• It results in capital Investment savings.  
• It enhances operational efficiency by allowing for faster acceleration. 
• It reduces maintenance and life cycle costs. 
• It lowers the risk of rusting. 

                                        SPORTS 

33. Neeraj Chopra finished second in the Zurich Diamond League. 

• On August 31, Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra finished second with 85.71m throw at the Diamond League meeting in Zurich. 
• The Czech Republic's Jakub Vadlejch was first with 85.86m, while Germany's Julian Weber was third with 85.04 m. 
• Recently on 27 August, Neeraj became the first-ever Indian athlete to win a gold medal at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest. 
• Neeraj qualified for the Diamond League finals to be held in Eugene, USA on September 17 with 23 points from three matches.
• In 2022, he won the Diamond League trophy. 
• He won the Diamond League meetings in Doha (5 May) and Lausanne (30 June). 
• In the men's long jump, M. Sreesankar finished fifth at the Diamond League meeting in Zurich.
• Olympic and world champion Miltiadis Tantoglu of Greece won the event with his final jump of 8.20 meters.
• Jamaica's Tajay Clarke finished second with a jump of 8.07m while USA's Jerrier Lawson finished third with a jump of 8.05m. 

34. Amrit Kalash Yatra started by Home Minister Amit Shah from New Delhi 

• On 1 September, the Home Minister started the Amrit Kalash Yatra from New Delhi under the Meri Mati Mera Desh campaign. 
• This campaign was announced on August 9 to honor the country's brave martyred men and women. 
• Amrit Kalash Yatra will be organized across the country and under this, soil of seven and a half thousand kalash will be brought from all the regions of the country to Amrit Vatika in Delhi. 
• Amrit Vatika will be built near the National War Memorial and will be a symbol of commitment to Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat. 
• Last month, PM Modi had said in his Mann Ki Baat program that this campaign would be started in September, and soil would be taken from every house in every village of the country.
• At the end of October, thousands of people will reach the capital Delhi with the Amrit Kalash Yatra. 

                    INDIAN POLITY 

35. The government called a special session of Parliament between September 18 and 22

• It will be of five days between September 18 and 22, will have five sittings. 
• There is no official word on the agenda of the session. 
• There is a speculation that special session has been called to begin the process of shifting from the old to the new Parliament building 
• The Monsoon Session was held between July 20 and August 12. 

Sessions of Parliament: 

• A 'session' of Parliament is the period between the first sitting of a House and its prorogation.
• There are usually three sessions that take place in a year, which are: Budget Session, Monsoon Session, and Winter Session. 
• The president has powers to summon and prorogue either house of Parliament or to dissolve the Lok Sabha. 
• The decision to convene a session of Parliament is taken by the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs. 
• The decision of the Committee is formalised by the President. 
• The summoning of a Parliament session is specified in Article 85 of the Constitution. 
• The budget session from January to the end of April or the first week of May, is the longest session.
• The interval between two sessions of Parliament should not exceed six months. 

                BOOKS AND AUTHOR 

36. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan released a comic book titled "Let's Move Forward".

• The launch event was held on August 29, 2023, at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi
• This comic book has been jointly developed NCERT and UNESCO.
• It will act as a useful resource to promote health and wellness of school going children. 
• It is aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of school going children across the nation. 
• This comic book will impart life skills essential for fostering responsible and health-conscious behaviour among adolescents. 
• It is available in different languages including Hindi English Assamese, Bengali Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, etc. 
• It will be distributed across various educational and health institutions.