Current Affairs | National | International | SSC | UPSC - 30th January 2024

 

National News 

1.84th All India Presiding Officers Conference was held in Mumbai, Maharashtra 

• The annual conference of Presiding Officers (POs) from across the country has been organized in Maharashtra on 27th and 28th January 2024 after 20 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 84th All India Presiding Officers Conference through video conference at the Maharashtra Legislature Complex in Mumbai. 
• 250 people including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh have participated. The PO conference will deliberate on various topics related to reforms and changes to be made in the parliamentary and legislative processes and their functioning. 
• The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha gave his address on 27 January and the Speaker of the Lok Sabha gave his address on 28 January. Partly funded by Parliament, the state legislature has made a provision of about ₹10 crore for the conference and has appointed an event management firm to organize everything. 
• The 83rd All India Presiding Officers Conference was held in Jaipur on January 11, 2023. The first conference was also held in Shimla in 1921.The All India Presiding Officers Conference (AIPOC) is the apex body of legislatures in India which completed its centenary in 2021. 

2.Foundation stone laid for North East India's first Central Yoga and Naturopathy Research Institute in Dibrugarh, Assam 

• Union AYUSH Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal and Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma laid the foundation stone of 100 bedded Central Research Institute of Yoga and Naturopathy (CRIYN) at Dihing Khamtighat, Dibrugarh. This will be the first center in North-East India. 
• With an aim to bring scientifically valid and useful synergy between the traditional knowledge of Yoga and Naturopathy and modern tools of technology, the institute will be developed on approximately 15 acres (45 bighas) of land at an investment of approximately Rs 100 crore. 
• It will set benchmark standards in education, preventive healthcare and research in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. This state-of-theart institute will focus on scientific validation of fundamental aspects, traditional systems and practices of medicine through evidence-based research, besides acting as an international collaboration center for global promotion and research in Yoga and Naturopathy. 
• The institute will also provide clinical training facilities to train yoga and naturopathy experts for capacity building programs in the areas of cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes rehabilitation, autoimmune diseases and NCD risk reduction. 

3.Dr. Nitya Anand, who discovered India's first oral contraceptive pill 'Saheli', passes away 

• Dr. Nitya Anand, who created India's first oral contraceptive pill 'Saheli', died at the age of 99 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Dr. Anand was in-charge of the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) from 1974 to 1984. 
• He was part of CDRI since its inception in 1951. He guided 100 PhD students, wrote more than 400 papers, and received more than 130 patents. 
• He was the brain behind the discovery of 'Santchroman', which is known as 'Saheli'. 
• It was the world's first and only non-steroidal, non-hormonal, once-a-week oral contraceptive pill. 
• It was launched in 1986 by the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. In 2016, Saheli became part of India's National Family Programme. It is still the only pill of its kind in the world. Dr. Anand worked with the Government of India on drug policies for nearly 40 years. He also advised several science groups. 

4.Tableau On Theme ‘India: Mother Of Democracy’ Clinches First Spot At Republic Day Parade 2024 

• The Republic Day Parade 2024 witnessed a remarkable tableau that captured the essence of India as the ‘Mother of Democracy.’ 
• This stunning representation not only enthralled the audience but also clinched the first spot in the parade, symbolizing India’s rich democratic heritage. 
• The winning tableau was based on the theme ‘India: Mother of Democracy,’ showcasing the country’s long-standing tradition of democratic values and practices. 
• The tableau highlighted India’s journey through the ages as a cradle of democratic principles, reflecting the diverse and inclusive nature of its political system. 

5.THDCIL Inaugurates India’s Largest Green Hydrogen Pilot Project On 75th Republic Day 

• On the 75th Republic Day, THDC India Limited (THDCIL), a prominent Power Sector PSU, proudly unveiled India’s Largest Electrolyser End Fuel Cell-based Green Hydrogen Pilot Project at its office complex in Rishikesh. 
• The initiative aligns with the “National Green Hydrogen Mission,” showcasing THDCIL’s commitment to sustainable energy practices. The pilot project, utilizing a 1MW Rooftop Solar Plant, will produce 50KG of Green Hydrogen daily. 
• The hydrogen will be stored in two tanks and used during night hours to illuminate the THDCIL office complex through a 70 Kw PEM Fuel Cell. 
• As India’s Largest Electrolyser End Fuel Cell based Pilot Project, THDCIL’s achievement demonstrates key technologies in Green Hydrogen Production, H2 storage, and features a PEM Hydrogen fuel cell-based microgrid system. 

6.India Nominates ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ For UNESCO World Heritage List 2024-25 

• India has nominated the ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the 2024-25 cycle. 
• The ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ comprise twelve components, including Salher Fort, Shivneri Fort, Lohgad, Khanderi Fort, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala Fort, Vijay Durg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee Fort. 
• These structures, dating back to the 17th and 19th centuries, span across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, showcasing the strategic military prowess of the Maratha rule. 

International News 

7.Comoros President Azali Assoumani Secures Controversial Fourth Term Amid Opposition Dispute 

• In a disputed electoral process, Comoros President Azali Assoumani has claimed victory for a fourth term with 63% of the vote, as announced by the electoral body Ceni. 
• The opposition alleges instances of ballot stuffing and premature closure of polls in favor of Assoumani, while international observers maintain the overall fairness of the election despite reported irregularities. 
• Azali Assoumani, a former military officer who first seized power in 1999, secured his fourth term after a contentious 2018 referendum abolished term limits. Accusations of imprisoning and exiling opponents have marred his rule, with critics raising concerns about democratic principles. 

8.Tshering Tobgay Embarks On Second Term As Prime Minister After Fourth Free Election

• Bhutan’s liberal leader, Tshering Tobgay, from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has commenced his second term as prime minister, following recent elections in the nation. 
• Bhutan, with a population of less than 800,000, has embraced democracy for 15 years and is renowned for its unique Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, measuring factors like recreation and emotional well-being. 
• Today, 58, now serving his second non-consecutive term, was previously prime minister from 2013 to 2018 and led the opposition in the first free vote in 2008. A former bureaucrat and advocate for Bhutan’s Buddhist culture, he faces the task of revitalizing the $3 billion economy post-COVID-19 and addressing youth migration abroad. 

9.Nitrogen gas was used for the first time in USA for death penalty. 

• Nitrogen gas has been used for the first time in the USA to carry out death penalty. Kenneth Smith, a convicted murderer, becomes the first person to be executed by nitrogen gas in the United States. 
• This execution, which took place in Alabama, introduces a new method that aims to be the most painless and humane alternative to previously practiced lethal injection. Which was introduced in 1982. 
• Smith inhaled pure nitrogen gas through a face mask. In its pure concentrated form, breathing the gas cuts off oxygen to the brain, a process called nitrogen hypoxia. 
• Three states – Alabama, Mississippi, and Oklahoma – have authorized nitrogen hypoxia as an execution method. 
• Jay previously attempted to execute Smith in 2022, but the lethal injection was canceled at the last minute because officials could not connect the IV line. 
• Nearly half of the US states still have death penalty laws. Execution methods vary, but some states still allow execution by hanging, firing squad, or electric chair. Nitrogen 
• The atmosphere contains 78% nitrogen gas and is part of many molecules essential to life, including proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and some vitamins. 
• The process of converting nitrogen gas (N2) into biologically available nitrogen i.e. ammonia by nitrogen fixing microorganisms is called nitrogen fixation. 

State News 

10.Odisha Hosts Fourth National Chilika Birds Festival 

• The National Chilika Birds Festival, a hallmark event in Odisha’s calendar, commenced with grandeur on January 26. The festival was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
• Hosted against the breathtaking backdrop of Chilika Lake, this festival brings together birders and enthusiasts from across India to celebrate the State of India’s Birds. 
• Participants embarked on birding excursions to Mangalajodi and Nalabana, sanctuaries nestled within Chilika’s pristine environs. Mangalajodi, dubbed the “Birds Paradise of Asia,” offered a glimpse into the diverse avian species that call this region home. 

Defence News 

11.Indian Army Implements New Fitness Policy 

• In response to concerns over declining physical standards and the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases within the Indian Army, a comprehensive new policy has been implemented. 
• The new policy introduces stringent measures for addressing physical health concerns among personnel, particularly overweight individuals. It mandates prompt action if no improvement is observed within 30 days. 
• Additionally, it introduces the Army Physical Fitness Assessment card (APAC), a standardized tool for monitoring and maintaining physical fitness levels. 
• The primary objective of this policy is to address concerns regarding physical health within the Indian Army. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical standards during courses, foreign postings, and in combating lifestyle diseases. 

Business News 

12.Toyota Retains Its Position As The World’s Top-Selling Automaker In 2023 

• Toyota, the renowned Japanese automaker, has once again secured its position as the world’s top-selling automaker in 2023. This achievement underscores Toyota’s continued dominance in the global automotive market and its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. 
• A key factor in Toyota’s success has been its pioneering work in hybrid and electric vehicle technology. The company’s investment in eco-friendly vehicles, such as the Prius and its expanding lineup of hybrid models, demonstrates its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. 

13.GAIL Secures 10-Year LNG Deal With UAE 

• GAIL, India’s leading gas company, has made significant strides in enhancing its liquefied natural gas (LNG) portfolio through a recent partnership with the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) ADNOC Gas. 
• Under this deal, GAIL is set to procure 0.5 million tonnes of LNG annually for a decade, marking a crucial step towards meeting India’s growing demand for natural gas. 
• Commencing in 2026, the deliveries from ADNOC will play a pivotal role in bridging the demand-supply gap of natural gas in India. This deal with ADNOC Gas underscores GAIL’s commitment to diversifying its LNG portfolio and ensuring a stable supply of natural gas for India’s energy needs. 

Schemes and Committee News 

14.Odisha Launches LABHA: A 100% State-Funded MSP Scheme For Tribal Empowerment 

• In a significant move towards the development and empowerment of approximately one crore tribals in Odisha, the state government, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has approved the launch of the ‘LABHA’ scheme. 
• LABHA, an acronym for Laghu Bana Jatya Drabya Kraya, is a 100% state-funded Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor Forest Produce (MFP). 
• The state government will annually determine the Minimum Support Price for the minor forest produce. Tribal primary collectors will sell minor forest produce at MSP through procurement centers managed by TDCCOL (Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation of Odisha Limited). 

Important Day News 

15.Martyrs Day Or Shaheed Diwas 2024 

• India commemorates Martyrs’ Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas, on January 30th each year. This day holds a dual significance as it marks the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, the “Father of the Nation,” and also serves to honour all the brave souls who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom and sovereignty. 
• Martyrs’ Day, also referred to as Mahatma Gandhi’s Punyatithi, is marked by various activities across the country. Prayer meetings and homage ceremonies are organized at Gandhi’s memorials and statues of other freedom fighters. Government officials, political leaders, and citizens participate in these events to pay their respects. 

16.World Leprosy Day 2024 

• World Leprosy Day, observed annually on the last Sunday of January, is a crucial event dedicated to raising awareness about leprosy, also known as Hansen’s Disease. 
• The first World Leprosy Day was established in 1954 by French Journalist Raoul Follereau. He chose the date as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, who showed compassion and empathy towards people affected by leprosy. 
• This year’s theme for World Leprosy Day is “Beat Leprosy.” The focus is on combating the stigma associated with the disease and promoting awareness about its curability. The day aims to campaign for awareness about the disease and to highlight available treatment options. 

Appointment News 

17.Sharat Chauhan Appointed As Puducherry’s New Chief Secretary 

• Sharat Chauhan, a seasoned 1994 batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, has been designated as the new Chief Secretary of Puducherry. 
• The announcement of his appointment came through an official order issued by the Union Home Ministry on January, 29. With an extensive background in administration, Chauhan is poised to bring fresh perspectives and efficient governance to the union territory.
• Chauhan’s prior service in Arunachal Pradesh has equipped him with a wealth of administrative experience, making him well-suited for his new role in Puducherry. His tenure in Arunachal Pradesh likely provided him with insights into managing diverse administrative challenges, which will be invaluable in his leadership of Puducherry. 

Award News 

18.‘12th Fail’ became the best film at the 69th Filmfare Awards 2024 

• The 69th Film Fair has been organized in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat. The event, hosted by filmmaker-producer Karan Johar, actor Ayushmann Khurrana and TV host Maniesh Paul, included glamorous red-carpet appearances, captivating performances and inspiring winning moments. 

Category Winner 

• Best Film - 12th Fail 
• Best Director - Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail) Best Actor (Male) - Ranbir Kapoor (Animal) 
• Best Actress (Female) - Alia Bhatt (Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani) 
• Best Film (Critics) - Zoram (Debasish Makhija) 
• Best Actor (Critics) - Vikrant Massey (12th Fail) 
• Best Actress (Critics) - Rani Mukherjee (Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway), Shefali Shah (Three of Us) 
• Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male) - Vicky Kaushal (Donkey) 
• Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) - Shabana Azmi (Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani) 
• Best Song - Amitabh Bhattacharya ("Tere Vaaste" - Zara Hatke Zara Bachke) 
• Best Music - Album Animal (Pritam, Vishal Mishra, Manan Bhardwaj, Shreyas Puranik, Jaani, Bhupinder Babbal, etc.) 
• Best Playback Singer (Male) - Bhupinder Babbal (Arjan Valley - Animal) 
• Best Playback Singer (Female) - Shilpa Rao (Besharam Rang - Pathan) 
• Best Story - Amit Rai (OMG 2), Devashish Makhija (Zoram) 
• Best Screenplay - Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail) 
• Best Debut Male Actor - Aditya Rawal (Faraz) 
• Best Debut Female Actress - Alizeh Agnihotri (Fairy) 
• Lifetime Achievement Award – David Dhawan 

Books and Authors News 

19.‘Ek Samandar, Mere Andar,’ Penned By BrahMos Aerospace Deputy CEO Sanjeev Joshi 

• ‘Ek Samandar, Mere Andar,’ a collection of 75 poems penned by BrahMos Aerospace Deputy CEO Sanjeev Joshi, was launched in a prestigious event graced by top Indian defence and literary figures.
• The book launch, held at the India International Centre, saw the presence of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt. 
• The launch of ‘Ek Samandar, Mere Andar’ highlights the lesser-known creative side of individuals deeply involved in the defense sector. Sanjeev Joshi, known for his role in BrahMos Aerospace, showcases his poetic prowess in this collection, offering a unique perspective on life and experiences. 

20.Himanta Biswa Sarma Released First Volume Of ‘Political History Of Assam (1947-1971)’ 

• Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma released the first edition of ‘Political History of Assam (1947-1971)’- Volume 1, marking a significant step in documenting the state’s political journey. 
• CM Sarma emphasized the need to rewrite history based on factual evidence, rather than through the lens of ideology. The book, envisioned to be completed in three volumes by 2025, covers the political events in Assam from 1947 to 2020. 
• Authored by Dr. Rajen Saikia, an eminent historian and former President of the Indian History Congress, Modern India Section, this work aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the region’s political landscape during a crucial period in its history. 

Science and technology News 

21.Iran launched three satellites Mahda, Kayhan-2 and Hatef-1 into space. 

• Iran has launched three satellites, Mahda, Kayhan-2 and Hatef-1, into space from Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan province. Despite previous failures, Iran successfully launched three satellites using the Simorgh rocket. 
• The satellites were sent into a minimum orbit of 450 km (280 mi). One satellite weighing 32 kilograms (71 lb) and two nano-satellites weighing less than 10 kilograms were launched using a Simorgh (Phoenix) satellite carrier rocket. 
• The nano-satellites named Kayhan2 and Hatef-1 will be used to test narrowband communications and geo-positioning technology. The larger satellite, named Mahda and built by the Iranian Space Agency, will aim to test the Simorgh rocket's accuracy in delivering multiple cargoes to space. 
• The US has previously condemned such activities, citing concerns over ballistic missile technologies capable of delivering nuclear weapons. Sanctions related to Iran's ballistic missile program expire in October 2023. 
• The trajectory of Iran's space program has changed under President Ebrahim Raisi, who took office in 2021. Earlier this month, Iran launched its Sorayya satellite with a rocket built by the country's military Revolutionary Guards that Europe believes Iran will use to develop long-range ballistic missiles. 

Ranks and Reports News 

22.According to the report of the Ministry of Education, there is an increase in the enrollment of women as compared to men in the science stream in the year 2021-22. 

• The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-22, released by the Ministry of Education, reveals a significant increase in higher education enrolment. The total enrollment increased from 4.14 crore in the previous session to about 4.33 crore in 2021-22, showing a significant increase of 19 lakh students. 
• The report highlights the appreciable increase in female enrollment in the science stream, surpassing its male counterparts. 
• The Ministry of Education has been conducting the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) since 2011, which covers all higher educational institutions located in the Indian territory and providing higher education in the country. 
• The survey collects detailed information on various parameters such as student enrolment, teachers' data, infrastructural information, financial information etc. 

Key facts 

• According to the 2021-22 report, Kerala, Telangana, Haryana and Assam are the top four states in women enrolment. 
• Highest student enrollment was in Uttar Pradesh (69.73 lakh), Maharashtra (45.78 lakh), Tamil Nadu (33.09 lakh), Madhya Pradesh (28 lakh), West Bengal (27.22 lakh), and Rajasthan (26.89 lakh). 
• Highest number of colleges are in Uttar Pradesh (8,375), Maharashtra (4,692), Karnataka (4,430) and Rajasthan (3,934). 
• Total female enrollment reached 2.07 crore in 2021-22, showing an increase from 2.01 crore in 2020-21. 
• Female PhD enrollment doubled from 0.48 lakh in 2014-15 to 0.99 lakh in 2021-22 with an annual growth rate of 10.4%. 
• Of the 57.2 lakh students enrolled in the science stream in 2021-22, females (29.8 lakh) outnumber males (27.4 lakh). 
• Enrollment of Scheduled Tribe (ST) students increased by 65.2% from 16.41 lakh in 2014-15 to 27.1 lakh in 2021-22. 
• The survey recorded a 45% increase in OBC student enrollment from 2014-15 (1.13 crore) to 2021-22 (1.63 crore). 
• The northeastern states have recorded a total student enrollment of 12.02 lakh in 2021-22, with female enrollment (6.07 lakh) exceeding male enrollment (5.95 lakh). 
• Among undergraduate level subjects, enrollment is highest in Arts (34.2%), followed by Science (14.8%), Commerce (13.3%) and Engineering and Technology (11.8%). 
• The number of women faculty/teachers has increased from 5.69 lakh in 2014-15 to 6.94 lakh in 2021-22 (increase of 1.25 lakh since 2014-15, i.e. 22%).” 
• Minority student enrollment has increased from 21.8 lakh in 2014-15 to 30.1 lakh in 2021-22 (an increase of 38%). Female minority student enrollment has increased from 10.7 lakh in 2014-15 (42.3% increase) to 15.2 lakh in 2021-22. 

23.Bhupender Yadav Releases The Status Report Of Snow Leopards In India 

• Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, released a significant report on the status of Snow leopards in India. 
• This groundbreaking study, part of the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Program, marks the first-ever scientific exercise to assess the population of this elusive species in the country. 
• The SPAI, a rigorous and systematic effort, reports the presence of 718 Snow leopards in India. This program was coordinated by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and supported by snow leopard range states, the Nature Conservation Foundation, Mysuru, and WWF-India. 

Sports News 

24. R Praggnanandha became the only chess player to defeat the current world champions in Open and Women's category 

• Grandmaster R Praggnanandha defeated defending and four-time women's world champion Wenjun Xu of China in the ninth round of the Tata Steel Masters. The game between R Praggnanandhan and Wenjun lasted only 33 moves. 
• The win makes Praggnanandhaa the only player in recent times to defeat both the reigning world champion in the Open and women's categories. Exactly a week ago in the same tournament, the Indian star had defeated China's Ding Liren. India's number 1 
• Just 10 days after 18-year-old Grand Master R Praggnanandhaa achieved the number one status, now Vidit Gujarathi has done the same. The 29-year-old player from Nashik has become India's new No. 1 in the International Chess Federation (FIDE) live ratings list. 
• Vidit overtook five-time world champion Anand by jumping four places and is now at 10th position.
• Vidit defeated Uzbek GM Nodirbek Abdusattarov with white pieces in the final round of Tata Steel Masters Chess 2024 in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, achieving a live rating of 2751.5 and also breaking into the top 10 of the world rankings in the process. 
• Praggnananda became India's number one player by defeating current world champion Ding Liren in the fourth round of the tournament but Praggnananda has since slipped to number three with a rating of 2747.2. Anand, who is currently ranked world number 13, is rated 2748. 

25.Sonam Maskar Wins Silver In Women’s Air Rifle In Cairo, Egypt 

• Sonam Maskar made a remarkable debut in the shooting World Cup in Cairo, Egypt, clinching the women’s air rifle silver medal. Despite her impressive performance, she was narrowly beaten by Anna Janssen of Germany by a mere 0.9 points. 
• Joining Maskar in the final was Nancy Mandhotra, who displayed excellent form during the qualification round with a score of 633.1. However, Mandhotra missed out on securing a medal by a slim margin of 0.2 points, showcasing the intense competition at the World Cup. 
• Raiza Dhillon, Areeba Khan, and Ganemat Sekhon showcased their skills in the women’s skeet event, securing positions in the 17th to 20th spots with scores of 68, 67, and 67 respectively. 

26.Indian Boxer Mandeep Jangra Secures U.S Intercontinental Title 

• Indian boxer Mandeep Jangra secured a remarkable triumph at the US-based National Boxing Association’s (NBA) intercontinental super featherweight championship. 
• His win came after a compelling bout against American Gerardo Esquivel in Toppenish City, Washington. Jangra, showcased exceptional skill as he transitioned from his previous 75kg weight class to compete for the intercontinental super featherweight title. 
• Before stepping into the professional arena, Jangra had a commendable run in the amateur circuit. His notable achievements include clinching a silver medal in the 2014 Glasgow edition of the Commonwealth Games, highlighting his talent and determination as a boxer. 

27.Naorem Roshibina Devi Crowned Female Wushu Athlete Of The Year 

• Naorem Roshibina Devi, the pride of Manipur, has clinched the prestigious title of International Wushu Federation Female Athlete of the Year, solidifying her place as a powerhouse in the world of wushu. 
• Roshibina’s triumphs at the Asian Games in 2018 and 2022 have been pivotal moments in her career, showcasing her dominance in the sport. Her silver and bronze medals in the sanda category have earned her widespread recognition and admiration. 
• Roshibina’s journey to sporting excellence began with a bronze medal at the World Junior Wushu Championships in 2016. Since then, she has continued to rise through the ranks, culminating in the prestigious Arjuna Award, a testament to her dedication and success in wushu. 

Agreement News 

28.Qatar Secures 15-Year Gas Supply Deal With Bangladesh To Bolster Energy 

• In a major stride within the energy sector, QatarEnergy and Excelerate Energy have finalized a pivotal 15-year LNG Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the goal of providing LNG to Bangladesh. 
• Under the SPA, Excelerate will secure up to one million tons per annum (MTPA) of LNG from QatarEnergy. The deliveries, set to commence from January 2026, will be directed to floating storage and regasification units in Bangladesh. 
• The agreement encompasses Excelerate’s purchase of 0.85 MTPA of LNG in 2026 and 2027, escalating to one MTPA from 2028 to 2040, reinforcing Qatar’s commitment to Bangladesh’s energy needs.