Indian Delegation to Participate in 2nd World Local Production Forum in Netherlands

Indian Delegation to Participate in 2nd World Local Production Forum in Netherlands

An Indian delegation led by Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Bhagwant Khuba, will depart for the Netherlands on Saturday, November 4, 2023, to participate in the 2nd World Local Production Forum (WLPF) in The Hague. The WLPF is a platform created at the initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) with the aim of increasing access to medicines and other health technologies.
Cameroon ranked 7th in Africa for illegal wildlife trafficking

Cameroon ranked 7th in Africa for illegal wildlife trafficking

Despite measures taken by law enforcement, Cameroon remains a major source and transit point for illegal wildlife trafficking (IWT). A new report by TRAFFIC, a wildlife trade monitoring network, found that Cameroon ranked seventh out of 29 African nations in terms of IWT during the decade spanning from 2009 to 2019.
Indian Scientists Develop New Method to Assess Biodiversity Using eDNA

Indian Scientists Develop New Method to Assess Biodiversity Using eDNA

Indian scientists have developed a new method to assess biodiversity using environmental DNA (eDNA). eDNA is DNA shed by organisms into their surroundings through natural processes. By collecting and sequencing eDNA from environmental samples, such as water, soil, or air, scientists can identify all kinds of organisms present in an ecosystem, including viruses, bacteria, archaea, fungi, plants, insects, birds, fish, and other animals.
Japanese Scientists Develop New Plastic That Is Stronger, Stretchier, Biodegradable, and Shape-Shifting

Japanese Scientists Develop New Plastic That Is Stronger, Stretchier, Biodegradable, and Shape-Shifting

In a major breakthrough, Japanese scientists have developed a new type of plastic that is stronger, stretchier, biodegradable, and can remember complex shapes. This new material, dubbed VPR, is a type of vitrimer, a class of plastics that is known for its strength and ability to be reshaped. However, vitrimers are also notoriously brittle, which has limited their applications.
CRPF withdraws CoBRA force from Kashmir amid internal divisions

CRPF withdraws CoBRA force from Kashmir amid internal divisions

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has withdrawn its elite CoBRA force from Jammu and Kashmir, following objections from some senior officials of the paramilitary force. The move has highlighted the internal divisions within the CRPF and raised questions about the government's strategy for dealing with the Maoist insurgency.
Reliance Jio Partners with Plume to Enhance Digital Lives of Indian Consumers

Reliance Jio Partners with Plume to Enhance Digital Lives of Indian Consumers

Reliance Jio, India's leading telecom operator, has announced a strategic partnership with Plume, a California-based company specializing in cloud-based AI-powered services. This partnership will bring a range of innovative offerings to Jio's nearly 200 million subscribers, including whole-home adaptive WiFi, device and application performance optimization, cyberthreat protection, parental controls, and WiFi motion sensing.
Prime Minister Modi chairs 43rd edition of PRAGATI, reviews projects worth Rs. 31,000 crore

Prime Minister Modi chairs 43rd edition of PRAGATI, reviews projects worth Rs. 31,000 crore

The 43rd edition of PRAGATI, a platform for intergovernmental coordination and project monitoring, was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. During the meeting, eight projects related to water supply, irrigation, national highways, connectivity, rail and metro rail connectivity were reviewed. The cumulative cost of these projects amounted to approximately Rs. 31,000 crore.
Exceptional Educator Deep Narayan Nayak Honored as a Top Finalist for Global Teacher Prize 2023

Exceptional Educator Deep Narayan Nayak Honored as a Top Finalist for Global Teacher Prize 2023

Dedicated teacher Deep Narayan Nayak, hailing from West Bengal, has garnered acclaim as one of the top 10 finalists for the prestigious Global Teacher Prize 2023. This esteemed accolade, an annual initiative presented by the Varkey Foundation, UNESCO, and Dubai Cares, recognizes outstanding educators worldwide. Nayak's selection underscores his unwavering commitment to education, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, where his innovative teaching methods have positively impacted underprivileged children and their communities.
India Resumes Visa Services with Canada Amidst Diplomatic Tensions

India Resumes Visa Services with Canada Amidst Diplomatic Tensions

Amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada sparked by a dispute over the killing of a Sikh separatist in British Columbia, India has decided to partially resume visa services for specific categories. The suspension, which was enacted due to safety concerns for Indian diplomats, had initially strained the bilateral relationship.
Renowned Professor Sarang Deo Appointed to WHO's STAG for Tuberculosis

Renowned Professor Sarang Deo Appointed to WHO’s STAG for Tuberculosis

Professor Sarang Deo, a distinguished figure in the field of Operations Management and healthcare, has been appointed as a member of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group (STAG) for Tuberculosis by the World Health Organization (WHO). This appointment reflects his exceptional expertise and contributions to the battle against tuberculosis, particularly in India.
India and Israel: A Multifaceted Partnership in Trade, Investments, and Collaboration

India and Israel: A Multifaceted Partnership in Trade, Investments, and Collaboration

The diplomatic relationship between India and Israel extends far beyond politics and diplomacy, encompassing trade, investments, and collaborations across various sectors. In this article, we explore the dynamic partnership between these two diverse nations, with a particular focus on trade, investments, and potential areas for cooperation. This examination provides valuable insights for students and individuals interested in international relations and business.
World Polio Day: Commemorating 12 Polio-Free Years in India and the Power of Vaccination

World Polio Day: Commemorating 12 Polio-Free Years in India and the Power of Vaccination

World Polio Day, observed every October 24, is a global reminder of the ongoing efforts to eradicate polio and the pivotal role of vaccination in safeguarding children against this disease. It's also an occasion to acknowledge the vital contributions of parents, caregivers, healthcare workers, and volunteers in ensuring that polio vaccines reach every child and community. This year, India celebrates 12 consecutive years of being polio-free, a remarkable milestone considering the last case of polio in India was reported in 2011.
Bengaluru Literature Festival Returns for Its 12th Edition, Showcasing Literary Excellence

Bengaluru Literature Festival Returns for Its 12th Edition, Showcasing Literary Excellence

The 12th edition of the Bengaluru Literature Festival is poised to grace The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru, on December 2. This two-day literary extravaganza is set to host around 250 esteemed authors, including luminaries such as Jnanpith awardee Chandrashekhara Kambara, Chetan Bhagat, Ramachandra Guha, and Perumal Murugan. Beyond literary discussions, it offers a vibrant cultural tapestry of music, children's activities, literary awards, and unique opportunities for aspiring authors and screenwriters.
Actor Rajkummar Rao, Known for 'Newton' Role, Honored as National Icon by Election Commission

Actor Rajkummar Rao, Known for ‘Newton’ Role, Honored as National Icon by Election Commission

Renowned actor Rajkummar Rao, celebrated for his exceptional portrayal of a principled government clerk in the Hindi film "Newton," is to be officially inducted as a National Icon by the Election Commission (EC). This recognition acknowledges his inspiring contributions to promoting the democratic process and his commitment to upholding democratic values in India.
Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project in Uttarakhand Receives Central Government Approval for PMKSY-AIBP Inclusion

Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project in Uttarakhand Receives Central Government Approval for PMKSY-AIBP Inclusion

The Indian central government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval to integrate the Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project in Uttarakhand into the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana-Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP). This significant decision brings financial support of Rs 1,557 crore from the central government for the completion of the project, which is expected to have far-reaching impacts on irrigation, hydroelectric power, and water supply.
PM SVANidhi Scheme: Transforming Urban Street Vendor Empowerment

PM SVANidhi Scheme: Transforming Urban Street Vendor Empowerment

Launched on June 1, 2020, the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme has become a catalyst for change in India's urban street vendor landscape. Designed to provide collateral-free working capital loans to this often marginalized community, it has made significant strides in gender equality and socio-economic transformation. A recent report by the State Bank of India's economic research department (ERD) sheds light on the profound impact of this scheme.
The 729 Barcode: Symbolizing Israel's Proud Contribution to Global Markets

The 729 Barcode: Symbolizing Israel’s Proud Contribution to Global Markets

Barcodes are a vital component of the worldwide retail landscape, acting as a universal language for products in today's modern marketplace. They simplify the processes of tracking, selling, and managing products on a global scale. One intriguing facet of barcodes lies in their ability to convey information about a product's origin. In the case of Israel, barcodes commencing with the digits 729 have evolved into an emblem of products proudly crafted in the nation.
Lay's Unveils Mahendra Singh Dhoni as Brand Ambassador for 'No Lay's, No Game' Campaign

Lay’s Unveils Mahendra Singh Dhoni as Brand Ambassador for ‘No Lay’s, No Game’ Campaign

Lay's, the renowned snack brand, has proudly introduced Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the celebrated cricketer, as its brand ambassador for the captivating 'No Lay's, No Game' campaign. This initiative is set to captivate the Indian audience, renowned globally for its passion for sports, and relies on Dhoni's universal appeal to convey a simple truth - that a true sports fan cannot imagine a match without Lay's.
Remembering Richard Roundtree: An Iconic Actor and Trailblazer

Remembering Richard Roundtree: An Iconic Actor and Trailblazer

Richard Roundtree, the legendary actor celebrated for redefining African American masculinity in cinema through his groundbreaking role as "Shaft," has passed away at the age of 81 due to pancreatic cancer. He was not only recognized as the "first black action hero" but also left an indelible mark on cinematic history with his iconic portrayal. This article explores his remarkable career, his journey from New Rochelle to Hollywood, and his enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.
UN Disarmament Week 2023: Advancing the Global Pursuit of Peace and Security

UN Disarmament Week 2023: Advancing the Global Pursuit of Peace and Security

UN Disarmament Week, observed from October 24 to 30, 2023, is an annual initiative orchestrated by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA). This important event plays a pivotal role in shedding light on the importance of disarmament and advocating for the removal of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the four fundamental pillars of the Agenda for Disarmament and the historical origins of this significant observance.
ONGC Acquires PTC India's Wind Power Unit to Boost Renewable Energy Portfolio

ONGC Acquires PTC India’s Wind Power Unit to Boost Renewable Energy Portfolio

The state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) continues its strategic journey towards a greener future with a successful bid to acquire PTC India Ltd's wind power unit for Rs 925 crore. ONGC's commitment to diversify its operations beyond hydrocarbons reflects its ambitious goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2038. This move signals a significant step in that direction, as ONGC aims to increase its renewable energy generation capacity from 189 MW to 10 gigawatts by 2030.
Kotak Mahindra Bank Appoints Ashok Vaswani as Managing Director and CEO

Kotak Mahindra Bank Appoints Ashok Vaswani as Managing Director and CEO

Kotak Mahindra Bank, a prominent private sector bank in India, has welcomed Ashok Vaswani as its next Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Vaswani's extensive experience in the banking and financial sector, spanning more than three and a half decades, positions him to lead the bank into a new era of strategic growth and digital transformation.
Indian Army Launches 'Project Udbhav' to Revive Ancient Statecraft and Military Wisdom

Indian Army Launches ‘Project Udbhav’ to Revive Ancient Statecraft and Military Wisdom

The Indian Army has introduced 'Project Udbhav,' a visionary initiative aimed at exploring the deep-rooted Indian heritage of statecraft and strategic knowledge found in ancient Indian texts. This project aligns with a broader government effort to encourage "Indianisation" across multiple sectors, and by focusing on ancient Indian philosophy, it seeks to enhance contemporary military practices and address modern security challenges.
Indian Military Heritage Festival 2022-2023: Commemorating India's Rich Military Legacy

Indian Military Heritage Festival 2022-2023: Commemorating India’s Rich Military Legacy

The Indian Military Heritage Festival at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande, paid homage to India's military history while seeking to inspire the nation's youth. Hosted by the United Service Institution of India (USI), this annual event showcased India's ancient civilization, self-reliance in defense, and modern military discourse.
Asian Para Games 2023 Kicks Off with Grand Opening Ceremony in Hangzhou

Asian Para Games 2023 Kicks Off with Grand Opening Ceremony in Hangzhou

The much-awaited Asian Para Games 2023 is set to commence in Hangzhou, China, following a delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This sporting extravaganza promises thrilling competitions as athletes from across Asia come together. Below, we provide essential event details and introduce India's distinguished flag bearers for the ceremony.
RBI Imposes ₹2.5 Crore Penalty on L&T Finance for Non-Compliance

RBI Imposes ₹2.5 Crore Penalty on L&T Finance for Non-Compliance

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a substantial ₹2.5 crore penalty on L&T Finance, a leading non-banking financial institution, for failing to comply with regulatory norms. This development underscores the central bank's commitment to maintaining financial discipline and ensuring that financial institutions adhere to the prescribed guidelines.
NLC India Launches NIGEL: A Leap Towards India's Green Energy Future

NLC India Launches NIGEL: A Leap Towards India’s Green Energy Future

NLC India, a prominent Navratna public sector company, has taken a momentous stride in India's renewable energy sector by introducing NLC India Green Energy Limited (NIGEL), a wholly-owned subsidiary. NIGEL is poised to be a game-changer in India's sustainable energy journey, concentrating on expanding renewable energy projects and pioneering technological innovations.
International Stuttering Awareness Day: Celebrating Diversity in Speech

International Stuttering Awareness Day: Celebrating Diversity in Speech

International Stuttering Awareness Day, observed globally on October 22nd each year, serves as a vital platform for raising awareness about stuttering—a speech disorder characterized by interruptions in fluency. This occasion unites organizations worldwide in an effort to educate the public about the unique challenges faced by those who grapple with stuttering.
Sanjay Kumar Jain Appointed Chairman and Managing Director of IRCTC

Sanjay Kumar Jain Appointed Chairman and Managing Director of IRCTC

Sanjay Kumar Jain, a seasoned officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS), has assumed the pivotal role of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) at the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). This appointment fills a crucial vacancy that had persisted since the retirement of the previous CMD in January 2021, with the recommendation coming from the Search-Cum-Selection Committee (SCSC). Jain's extensive experience within the Indian Railways and his prior role as Joint Secretary in the Department of Public Enterprises position him to lead IRCTC with a fresh vision. His tenure as CMD is expected to bring valuable leadership and expertise to the organization.
EU Tax Observatory Proposes 2% Global Wealth Tax on Billionaires in 'Global Tax Evasion Report 2024'

EU Tax Observatory Proposes 2% Global Wealth Tax on Billionaires in ‘Global Tax Evasion Report 2024’

The European Union Tax Observatory's latest report, titled 'Global Tax Evasion Report 2024,' calls for the imposition of a 2% global wealth tax on billionaires to combat rampant tax evasion. This proposal seeks to rectify the issue of some billionaires paying a mere 0% to 0.5% of their wealth in taxes and aims to generate substantial revenue from fewer than 3,000 ultra-wealthy individuals. The report also evaluates progress in curbing tax evasion and underscores the need to expand measures to address persistent offshore tax evasion.
Dussehra 2023: A Celebration of Victory, Culture, and Virtue

Dussehra 2023: A Celebration of Victory, Culture, and Virtue

Dussehra, also known as Vijyadashami, is a vibrant and significant Hindu festival in India. Falling on October 24th, 2023, it concludes the nine-day Navratri festival. This article explores the essence of Dussehra, its historical significance, and the diverse customs that enrich Indian culture during this festive season.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Receives 'Award for Global Leadership' from Harvard Law School

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Receives ‘Award for Global Leadership’ from Harvard Law School

The distinguished Chief Justice of India (CJI), DY Chandrachud, an esteemed alumnus of Harvard Law School, has been honored with the prestigious 'Award for Global Leadership' by his alma mater. This recognition serves as a testament to his remarkable contributions to the field of law and justice, reflecting his enduring commitment to legal reform and education.
Shubman Gill Sets New ODI Milestone with Lightning-Fast 2000 Runs

Shubman Gill Sets New ODI Milestone with Lightning-Fast 2000 Runs

Shubman Gill, the dynamic Indian opener, has etched his name in the annals of One Day International (ODI) cricket history by becoming the fastest player to reach 2000 runs in this format. His remarkable achievement, surpassing the previous record held by Hashim Amla, reinforces his reputation as a rising cricket star.
India Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) to Spearhead India's Global Semiconductor Leadership

India Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) to Spearhead India’s Global Semiconductor Leadership

The India Semiconductor R&D Committee recently handed over a comprehensive report on the India Semiconductor Research Center (ISRC) to Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The report outlines a strategic roadmap that aims to place India at the forefront of global semiconductor research and innovation.
Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty Receives Durga Bharat Samman for Outstanding Contribution to Indian Classical Music

Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty Receives Durga Bharat Samman for Outstanding Contribution to Indian Classical Music

Hindustani classical vocalist and composer, Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty, was recently awarded the prestigious 'Durga Bharat Samman' by the Governor of West Bengal, C V Ananda Bose. This recognition is a testament to his remarkable contributions to the world of music and his invaluable role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Indian classical music.
Dhordo Village in Gujarat Earns Global Acclaim as Best Tourism Village

Dhordo Village in Gujarat Earns Global Acclaim as Best Tourism Village

The picturesque village of Dhordo in Gujarat, India, has achieved international acclaim by securing a spot on the list of the world's top 54 tourism villages, as declared by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This recognition has garnered praise from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, highlighting the village's rich cultural heritage and natural allure, as well as its potential to captivate visitors from across the globe.
India's Gaganyaan Program Achieves a Milestone with Successful TV-D1 Launch

India’s Gaganyaan Program Achieves a Milestone with Successful TV-D1 Launch

The successful launch of the Test Vehicle-D1 (TV-D1) from Sriharikota Island in Andhra Pradesh marks a historic moment for India's ambitious human space mission, the ISRO's Gaganyaan program. This significant achievement, though not without its challenges, brings India one step closer to realizing its dream of sending humans into space. The TV-D1 mission, encompassing various critical objectives, serves as a testament to India's resilience and determination in the face of adversity, further fueling its commitment to space exploration.
Reserve Bank of India's Pioneering Efforts in the Digital Transformation of India's Financial Landscape

Reserve Bank of India’s Pioneering Efforts in the Digital Transformation of India’s Financial Landscape

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is spearheading a groundbreaking transformation in India's financial sector, with a pioneering pilot project for the E-Rupee, a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), designed to revolutionize inter-bank transactions. This endeavor leverages blockchain technology and digital currency to streamline financial transactions, underlining RBI's commitment to innovative, inclusive, and efficient financial solutions. This article explores RBI's digital journey, its vision for CBDCs, and its phased approach to fintech regulation.
Unraveling the Complexities of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

Unraveling the Complexities of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

The Israel-Palestine conflict is a deeply entrenched and multifaceted dispute that defies simple solutions. Its historical, territorial, religious, and political dimensions continue to stoke tensions and pose significant challenges to regional and global stability. As efforts to resolve the conflict persist, it is crucial to acknowledge the complexity of the issue and work towards a just and lasting solution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Japan Achieves Groundbreaking Success with Maritime Electromagnetic Railgun Test

Japan Achieves Groundbreaking Success with Maritime Electromagnetic Railgun Test

In a historic achievement, Japan has made waves in the field of defense technology by successfully testing a medium-caliber maritime electromagnetic railgun from an offshore platform on October 17. This groundbreaking accomplishment, realized through a collaboration between the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the Acquisition Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA), signifies a remarkable leap forward in defense capabilities. Unlike conventional railgun setups on ships, Japan aims to deploy this technology on both land and sea, revolutionizing the industry with its unconventional approach. The potential applications of this cutting-edge technology are vast, from countering aerial threats to bolstering national security.
IRCTC and Zomato Team Up to Elevate Rail Travel Dining Experience

IRCTC and Zomato Team Up to Elevate Rail Travel Dining Experience

In a groundbreaking development for train travelers in India, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) has forged a partnership with the popular food delivery platform, Zomato. This strategic alliance is set to revolutionize the dining experience of railway passengers by offering an expanded array of food options through IRCTC's E-Catering segment.
Kotak Mahindra Bank Gains RBI Approval for 100% Stake in Sonata Finance

Kotak Mahindra Bank Gains RBI Approval for 100% Stake in Sonata Finance

Kotak Mahindra Bank has achieved a significant milestone in the financial sector with the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) approval to acquire a full 100% stake in Sonata Finance. This strategic acquisition signifies a substantial step forward for Kotak Mahindra Bank as it looks to broaden its presence in the microfinance industry. The acquisition, worth approximately Rs 537 crore, was initially announced in February and has now secured the critical green light from the RBI.
HP Appoints Ipsita Dasgupta as Senior VP & Managing Director for South Asian Markets

HP Appoints Ipsita Dasgupta as Senior VP & Managing Director for South Asian Markets

Hewlett-Packard (HP) has made a strategic leadership change by naming Ipsita Dasgupta as the Senior Vice President & Managing Director responsible for the India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka markets. In this pivotal role, Ms. Dasgupta will lead HP's operations, strategic direction, and financial performance in these crucial South Asian regions. She brings a wealth of experience, having held prominent positions in renowned organizations such as Star India and Apple, making her an ideal choice to guide HP's future growth. Ms. Dasgupta is set to commence her role on October 30 and will report directly to HP's Chief Commercial Officer, David McQuarrie.
Honoring the Sacrifice: National Police Memorial and Police Commemoration Day

Honoring the Sacrifice: National Police Memorial and Police Commemoration Day

On October 21, 1959, in a tragic ambush by heavily armed Chinese troops at Hot Springs in Ladakh, ten courageous policemen made the ultimate sacrifice. This day, Police Commemoration Day, not only pays tribute to their memory but also honors all police personnel who have given their lives while on duty, preserving national security and integrity. The National Police Memorial (NPM), inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji in 2018, plays a pivotal role in uniting police forces, giving them a sense of national identity, pride, and shared destiny. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave men and women in uniform. This article explores the NPM's significance and its multifaceted tribute to the valor and sacrifice of police personnel.
Assam Chief Minister Inaugurates 'Shraddhanjali' Flyover, Setting a New Benchmark in Infrastructure Development

Assam Chief Minister Inaugurates ‘Shraddhanjali’ Flyover, Setting a New Benchmark in Infrastructure Development

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma achieved a remarkable milestone by inaugurating the 'Shraddhanjali' flyover in Guwahati on October 19, 2023. This 2.28-kilometer-long marvel of engineering, completed in just 60 days, now stands as the state's second longest flyover. It exemplifies the government's commitment to cost-effective infrastructure development and is named in honor of a cherished location within Assam. This accomplishment, along with the recent inauguration of the Nilachal Flyover, signifies a significant leap forward in the state's transportation and connectivity enhancement.