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 INDEX
Cover Story 3-7 l Fortune Global 500
l The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty Eighth l Airtel Payments Bank Launched India’s 1st Eco-
Amendment) Bill, 2023 Friendly Debit Card
Focus 8-21 l India’s first 3D-printed post office
l G-20 Summit 2023 l Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar
l Aditya-L1: India’s first solar mission l National Digital Nagrik Forum
l Negotiations to Revive Black Sea Grain Deal l Oil India Ltd. elevated as 13th ‘Maharatna’ Company
l Asian Development Bank’s 2023 Regional l India’s External Debt as at the end of March 2023
Cooperation and Integration (RCI) Conference l First Loss Default Guarantee (FLDG)
l 5th Annual Advance Pricing Agreement (APA) Report l America’s Richest Self-Made Women
l India marks one year of launch of National Logistics l Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) Mechanism
Policy Science & Technology 50-57
l Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) l Russia’s Ambitions Luna-25 Mission Ends In Failure
l Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Battery Energy l Agnibaan Rocket
Storage Systems l ‘Pibot,’ the humanoid robot
l 5th International Solar Alliance (ISA) Regional l James Webb Telescope Captures Stunning Image Of
Meeting Ring Nebula
l 6th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2023 l 5% of birds in India are endemic, reveals Zoological
National Affairs 22-32 Survey of India publication
l 6th Census Report On Minor Irrigation (MI) Schemes l The Einstein cross
l New Bills to overhaul criminal laws l NASA’s STEREO-’s Earth Flyby
l Supreme Court’s Verdict on Inheritance l PM-eBus Sewa
l Dementia declared a public health priority in l Radio Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs)
Karnataka l ‘Urea Gold’ fertiliser
l The CEC and Other EC (Appointment, Conditions of l National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission
Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 2023 NSCAEM
l PM–YASASVI Scheme l ISRO’s PSLV-C56 puts 7 satellites in orbit
l A-Help for Animal Husbandry l SpaceX: World’s largest Private Communications
l Vindhyagiri Project 17A Satellite
l Anduri Festival (Butter Holi) l News in Short
l CCEA Approves 7 Multi-tracking Projects Environment Affairs 58-64
l Matti Banana l State of India’s Birds 2023 Report
l Global Initiative of WHO l ‘Mangrove Cell’
l Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023 l National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing
l Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) and Innovations
ULLAS Initiative l Himalayan Vulture: Gyps Himalayensis
l Nari Adalats l River Devika Rejuvenation Project
International Affairs 33-40 l MoEFCC Reverses Decision to Merge Autonomous
l 14th Joint Group of Customs Meeting Between India Bodies
and Bangladesh l Sixth Anniversary of the Minamata Convention
l 20th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ Meeting l “Towards Decarbonising Transport 2023 : A Stocktake
l Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Greece on Sectoral Ambition in G20” Report
l India and New Zealand sign MoU to boost cooperation l Ministry of Road Transport & Highways Launched
in Civil Aviation Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme)
l 5th India-Bangladesh Annual Defence Dialogue l National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)
l 15th BRICS Summit Accords Final Approval to Dholpur-Karauli Tiger
l MoU between India and Suriname in the field of the Reserve (DKTR)
regulation of medicines l Urban River Management Plans (URMPS) For 60
l China’s Stapled Visas Cities
l Kampala Declaration l India succeeds in reducing emissions rate by 33% over
l News in Shorts 14 years
Economic Affairs 41-49 Learning Through Map 65-67
l WorldCoin Canada
l PM SVANIDHI Scheme Ethics Booster Series 68-71
l Vivad se Vishwas – II Mains Answer Writing 72-75
l PM Vishwakarma Scheme Short News 76-87
l RBI’s UDGAM portal Sports 88-96

2
 The Articles 330A and 332A newly
 
The Constitution (One Hundred
proposed articles want to establish
and Twenty Eighth Amendment) women’s reservation in the Lok Sabha and
Bill, 2023 State Legislative Assemblies.
Present Scenario   Article 334A included a sunset
 The Rajya Sabha on September 21, 2023 provision that would gradually end this
unanimously passed the Nari Shakti Vandan affirmative action policy after 15 years
Adhiniyam {Officially The Constitution however its terms can be extended.
(One Hundred and Twenty Eighth  It is noteworthy that the bill included provisions
Amendment) Bill, 2023} or the Women's for horizontal reservation that cut across
Reservation Bill, 2023, proposing to reserve different quota categories.
one-third of all seats for women in the Lok   Particularly, women from the Scheduled
Sabha, the state legislatures, and the Delhi Caste (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes
Legislative Assembly.
(STs) are proposed to have one-third of
  All 214 Rajya Sabha members present
the seats allocated for SCs and STs in the
voted in favour of the bill. Nobody voted
Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies.
against it. There were no abstentions as well.
 The Constitution (One Hundred and   These efforts are aimed at increasing
Twenty-eight Amendment) Bill 2023 was women’s participation in the legislative
introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun process, even among groups that have
Ram Meghwal in the Upper House. historically been underrepresented.
 Lok Sabha passed the bill on September 20,  Rotation of seats: The designated seats for
2023 with the support of 2/3rd majority of the female lawmakers may be distributed by rotation
members present and voting (In Lok Sabha, 454 to various constituencies within a state or union
Members supported it and 2 opposed). territory.
 The President of India is yet give her assent to bill.
 Majority required: The Women Reservation
Key Highlights of the Bill Bill would require a special majority of the
 Articles to be Amended: To achieve the goal Parliament and ratification by half of the states.
of women’s reservation, the Bill proposed That is a two-thirds majority in both the Houses
Amendments to the Constitutional provisions
of Parliament and the approval from at least
with respect to the NCT of Delhi; Article
50% of states.
239AA (Special provisions with respect to Delhi)
 New Articles to be inserted: The Women’s Obstacles in the Implementation of Bill
Reservation Bill also introduced three new A. Delimitation Process Dependency: The
articles, namely Articles 330A, 332A, and 334A. Bill links the implementation of women’s
October, 2023 (3) CURRENT DRISHTI
 reservation to the delimitation process, which Past proposals suggested rotation and a
 
could significantly delay its enactment. draw of lots method to determine reserved
  Delimitation would occur after the seats, but the government’s exact approach
publication of Census results, with the remains unclear.
2021 Census delay potentially affecting the C. Current Seat Reservation Process: SCs and
timeline. Assuming the Census results are STs: The Delimitation Act, 2002, lays down
published after 2026, this could serve as principles for reserving seats for Scheduled
the basis for delimitation of constituencies. Castes and Scheduled Tribes based on
  Given the current circumstances, women’s population distribution.
reservation might not be effective in the D. Other Constitutional Amendments Needed
Lok Sabha until the general elections of to Operationalise the Scheme of Women
2029. Reservation: Article 82 and Article 170(3) of
B. Seat Identification Uncertainty: The Bill the Constitution would need to be changed
does not specify how the reserved seats will in order to implement delimitation, which
be identified, leaving this crucial aspect to be is a requirement for the implementation of
addressed by a separate law. reservations.

20 years after it was first introduced on September 12, 1996, the constitutional
amendment bill to reserve 33% seats for women in Lok Sabha and state
legislatures is still a work in progress
History of
Women's A look at the major milestones of Women's Reservation Bill
Reservation Bill
The National Perspective Introduced in the Referred to a Joint Parliamentary
Plan for Women recommended Lok Sabha by the Deve Committee chaired by Geeta
in 1988 that reservation be Gowda government on Mukherjee, which presented its report
provided to women right from the September 12, 1996 (81st to the Lok Sabha on December 9,
level of the panchayat to that of Constituent Amendment 1996. The bill got lapsed with the
Parliament. bill, 1996) term of the 11th Lok Sabha

Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led

In 2004, the new UPA
NDA government re-introduced
On May 6, 2008 , a government included the passing
the bill in the 13th Lok Sabha in
resolute Manmohan Singh- of the Bill as part of its Common
led UPA government
1999. It moved the Bill second
Minimum Programme, the
time amid pandemonium in
introduced the legislation touchstone of the UPA coalition
2002, but failed and Bill lapsed
in the Rajya Sabha working with the outside support
with the tenure of the House
of the Left parties.

Rajya Sabha passed the Bill on March 9, 2010 and 15th Lok Sabha could not take up
sent to Lok Sabha for ratification the Bill and it got lapsed again

CURRENT DRISHTI (4) October, 2023

 Article 82 has provisions for the readjustment societal and cultural norms that perpetuate
of constituencies (number and boundaries) of patriarchy.
both the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies after  Some argue that reservation policies can lead
each Census. to tokenism, where women are seen as filling
 Similarly, Article 170(3) deals with the quotas rather than being genuinely supported
composition of the state Legislative Assemblies. and empowered.
Criticism of the Bill and provided reservation Need of the Reservation to Women in the
in it Parliament Representation
 First, the implementation schedule’s complexity.  India has made significant progress in Gender
  The Constitution (One Hundred and Gap Report 2023, rising from 135th (in 2022) to
Twenty-eighth Amendment) Act of 2023 127th out of 146 countries in the report’s 2023
would go into effect once “an exercise edition, but still there is a long way to go for
of delimitation is undertaken for this gender equality.
purpose after the relevant figures for the  Globally, India ranks 141st in a list of 193
first Census taken after that date have been countries, below China (88th) and Pakistan
published,” according to the bill. (111th), at a time when the number of women
  The election cycle from which women will parliamentarians in the country is at an all-time
get their fair share is not specified. high of over 14%.
 Second, the new Bill does not offer women’s   The list released each month by the Inter-
reservation in the Rajya Sabha and state Parliamentary Union (IPU) is based
legislative councils, in keeping with the previous on the percentage of women in national
regimes. parliaments.
  Women are currently underrepresented in   India has made strides in political
the Rajya Sabha compared to the Lok Sabha. empowerment, achieving 25.3% parity in
  The Lower and Upper Houses must both this domain. Women represent 15.1% of
adhere to the concept of representation. parliamentarians, which is the highest
 Reservation policies typically apply to political representation since the inaugural report
representation but may not address broader in 2006.

Number of Women MPs in the Lok Sabha

October, 2023 (5) CURRENT DRISHTI

 18 countries — including Bolivia (50.4%),
  Countries with party quota laws include
 
India (44.4%) and France (42.3%) — have Argentina, Mexico, and Costa Rica, which
achieved women’s representation of also have over 36% female representation
over 40% in Local Governance. in their national legislatures.
While reservation for women exists in
  Through
  voluntary (non-legislated)
Panchayati Raj institutions, it operates quotas by political parties, nations like
under Article 243D and has achieved South Africa, Sweden, and Germany
significant representation in several states. have attained comparable levels of female
According to government data as of
  representation.
September 8, 2021, in at least 18 states, With 44.8% of its current National
 
the percentage of women elected Assembly made up of women, South
representatives in Panchayati Raj Africa is a great case study.
institutions was more than 50%.
Country % of elected
Constitutional Provisions for Women women
Representation in Panchayati Raj Syatem
Sweden 46.4%
 The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act,
Norway 46.2%
1992 mandates 33.3% reservation for women
South Africa 45.5%
in PRIs across the country.
Australia 38.4%
 This has been increased to 50% reservation
France 37.8%
in several states like Andhra Pradesh,
Germany 35.1%
Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh,
Bihar etc. UK House of Commons 34.6%
 Out of the 30.41 lakh elected representatives Significance of the Women’s Reservation
of PRIs, 13.74 lakh (45.2%) are women. Bill
 Article 15 (3) to the Constitution of India  Historical Underrepresentation: Historically,
empowers the State to make special provisions women have been significantly underrepresented
for women. in India’s political landscape.
 Article 243D provides that one-third of   This underrepresentation perpetuates
the total number of seats and offices of the gender inequality as it restricts women’s
Chairpersons in PRIs at each level shall be ability to influence policies and decisions
reserved for women to be allotted by rotation that affect their lives.
to different constituencies in a Panchayat.  Political Empowerment: The Women’s

Women’s Representation in Other Countries Reservation Bill aims to rectify this historical
 According to the Inter-Parliamentary imbalance by reserving a certain percentage
Union Report, 2019, the African nation of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative
of Rwanda came out on top in the assembly’s Assemblies for women.
long-term portrayal with 61.3%, followed by   This proactive measure ensures that women
Cuba with 53.2%. have a fair opportunity to participate in
 Nepal held the 53rd position with 33.1%. The the highest levels of decision-making in
unfortunate fact is that India is too behind in the country, promoting gender equality in
the ranking. politics.
 Party line reservation: Countries like France,  Symbolic Importance: Beyond the practical
Korea, and Nepal, among others, have passed implications, the bill carries immense symbolic
quotas as high as 50% of the candidate list. importance.
CURRENT DRISHTI (6) October, 2023
 It signifies that Indian society recognizes
   Addressing Gender-Specific Issues: Women
and values the contributions of women in often advocate for policies related to maternal
politics, sending a message that women’s health, childcare, gender-based violence, and
voices and perspectives are essential in economic opportunities that directly affect
shaping the nation’s future. women and families.
 Access to Political Arena: The Women’s  Enhancing Decision-Making: Diverse
Reservation Bill empowers women by granting perspectives lead to more comprehensive and
them equal access to the political arena.
balanced decision-making.
  It breaks down traditional barriers and
  When women are actively involved in
prejudices that may have discouraged
policymaking, the resulting laws and
women from entering politics in the
regulations are more likely to consider
past, such as social norms and lack of
the needs and interests of the entire
opportunities.
 Policy Influence: Through political population, not just a segment of it.
participation, women gain the power to  Social and Cultural Change: Female political
influence policies that directly impact their lives leaders can challenge traditional gender roles
and those of their communities. and norms, inspiring broader social and cultural
  This empowerment translates into tangible change.
changes in areas such as healthcare,   Their presence in politics can help break
education, gender-based violence, and down stereotypes and create a more
economic opportunities. inclusive and gender-equal society.
ARGUMENTS SUPPORTING THE BILL ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE BILL
 Women's active political participation is crucial  It would perpetuate the unequal status of
in their fight against the abuse, discrimination, women since they would not be perceived to be
and inequality they face, and in promoting competing on merit.
gender equality.
 Sustainable progress towards human  Reservation may benefit only privileged women,
development indicators relies heavily on worsening the situation for marginalized and
women's political participation. underprivileged groups.
 A representative and functional democracy  The rotation of reserved constituencies in each
requires political participation from all segments election could reduce the incentive of an MP to
of society. work for their constituency, as they may become
ineligible to seek re-election from that same
constituency.
 Women's political participation can inspire  Reservation may lead to a "proxy culture" or a
them to work towards creating a more equal situation where elected women lack real power
and better society, leading to inclusive national and act on behalf of male decision- makers.
development.
 Eliminating gender discrimination and  Reserving legislative positions for women may
empowering women, as outlined in the result in qualified men losing out on those
Preamble and Constitution of India, is integral positions.
to promoting equality of rights and freedoms.

October, 2023 (7) CURRENT DRISHTI

 the agenda, priorities, and intergovernmental
G-20 Summit 2023 negotiations during the presidency, preparing
18th edition of G-20 summit was held in New and overseeing commitments made at the
Delhi recently under the president ship of India. Summits.
About the Summit G20 Sherpas (Sherpa track)
 Held at: New Delhi, India  Personal emissaries of the Leaders.
 Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi  Focus on socio-economic issues: agriculture,
 Held on: 9-10 September 2023 anti-corruption, climate, digital economy,
 Edition: 18 th
education, employment, energy, environment,
 Theme: ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘One health, tourism, trade, and investment.
Earth, One Family, One Future’.  Manage year-round negotiations, shape
 Under the Presidency of: India the Summit agenda, and coordinate G20’s
Background substantive work.
 G20 comprises 19 countries, namely  Amitabh Kant was India’s Sherpa for the

Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, 2023 summit.

France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, G20 Finance Track:
the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi  Chaired by Finance Ministers and Central
Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, the United Bank Governors, with approximately four
Kingdom, the United States and the European annual gatherings.
Union.  Two meetings coincide with World Bank and
 These members account for around 85% of the International Monetary Fund events.
world GDP, 75% of the total international trade,  Areas of emphasis: Fiscal and Monetary
and two-thirds of the global population. policies, global economy, infrastructure,
 In addition to these member countries, the G20 financial regulation, financial inclusion,
each year invites guest countries and international international financial architecture, and
organisations such as the United Nations, international taxation.
World Bank, IMF, OECD, ASEAN, etc., to
 Troika: The G20 does not have a charter or a
participate in its meetings.
secretariat. The Presidency is supported by the
G20 Structure and Functioning: Troika, which includes the previous, current,
 The G20 consists of annual meetings of and incoming presidencies. The G20 Presidency
Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, hosts the Summit and directs the agenda for
along with a once-a-year leaders’ summit. a calendar year. Current Troika included
 It operates through two tracks: the Finance Indonesia (2022 president), India (2023
Track and the Sherpa Track. These tracks guide president) and Brazil (2024 President).
CURRENT DRISHTI (8) October, 2023
 A non-binding forum: Its decisions are not  One of the standout features of the G20
legally binding, and member countries are not India app is its comprehensive information
required to implement them. delivery.
Key Points  It is available in 10 languages, including Hindi,
 India’s G-20 presidency is based on the central German, Portuguese, and Japanese, ensuring
theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘One accessibility for a diverse international
Earth, One Family, One Future’. audience.
 This theme is taken from the ancient Sanskrit  The app provides a virtual tour of the Summit
text of the Maha Upanishad. venue, Bharat Mandapam Convention Center
 The logo of the G-20 chaired by India is at Pragati Maidan.
inspired by the vibrant colors of India’s national Major Outcomes of the G-20 2023
flag ‘saffron, white, green and blue’.  New Delhi Declaration: India was able to
 The logo depicts the Earth with the Lotus, the achieve an unanimous G20 Leaders’ New Delhi
national flower of India, representing ‘growth’ Declaration out of G20 summit which was
amid ‘challenges’. hailed as major victory for Indian diplomacy.
 The seven petals of the lotus represent the  It achieved unanimous consensus, addressing
seven continents and the seven universal musical diverse global issues, from Russia-Ukraine
notes. tensions to sustainable development, food
 G-20 chairmanship also marked the beginning security, and launching the Global Biofuel
of ‘Amrit Kaal’ for India. Alliance.
 It is to be known that from August 15, 2022,  Admittance of the African Union (AU)
the 75th anniversary of India’s independence to the G20 (Now G21): This move aims to
to the 100th anniversary of independence,the enhance the representation of developing
period of 25 years has been given the name of countries within the forum.
‘Amrit Kaal’.  The AU’s membership in the G20 provides an
 “India” is written in ‘Devanagari’ script below opportunity to reshape global trade, finance,
the G-20 logo. and investment.
 Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands,  It offers a greater voice to the Global South
Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and UAE within the G20, helping address their concerns
were among the special invitee countries for the and priorities.
G-20 summit held under the chairmanship of  Inclusion allows African interests and
India. perspectives to be heard and recognized within
the G20, influencing key global decisions.
G20 India mobile app
 Prior to G20 Summit in Delhi, the Indian African Union
government has unveiled the G20 India  It is a continental union consisting of 55
mobile application. member states located on the continent of
 It is a digital tool designed to facilitate Africa.
interaction and provide valuable information  It was announced in the Sirte Declaration in
for all visitors, including ministers. Sirte, Libya, on 9 September 1999.
 This innovative app, created by the Ministry of  The bloc was founded on 26 May 2001 in
External Affairs, aims to enhance the Summit Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and launched on 9
experience for participants and attendees. July 2002 in Durban, South Africa.

October, 2023 (9) CURRENT DRISHTI

 Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA): It is an  On February 11-12, 2023, the first G-20 Empower
initiative led by India, aiming to create an Inception Meeting was organized in Agra.
alliance among governments, international  The First G20 Digital Economy Working
organizations, and industry stakeholders to Group (DEWG) meeting in India was organized
promote the adoption of biofuels. in Lucknow between 13th to 15th February 2023.
 GBA was launched with nine founding  Under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, the
members, including India, the US, Brazil, G20 Culture Working Group (CWG) under
Argentina, Bangladesh, Italy, Mauritius, South India’s Presidency , the G20 Culture Ministers’
Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. Meeting was held at Varanasi on 26th August 2023.
 19 countries and 12 international organizations  G-20 Digital Innovation Alliance: On
have expressed their intent to join GBA. December 28, 2022, Union Minister Ashwini
Vaishnav launched the G-20 Digital Innovation
India – Middle East – Europe Economic
Alliance: G-20 DIA as part of India’s G-20
Corridor (IMEC)
chairmanship.
 An MoU was signed between India, the US,
 It aims to identify, recognize and enable adoption
Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the UAE,
of innovative and impactful digital technologies
France, Germany, and Italy to establish the India
developed by start-ups from G-20 countries as
– Middle East – Europe Economic Corridor
well as invited non-member nations.
(IMEC).
 The G-20 Digital Innovation Alliance Summit
 Part of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure
was organized in Bengaluru between August
Investment (PGII), introduced during the G7
17-19, 2023.
summit in 2021.
 Aims to finance infrastructure projects in
developing countries through a mix of public
and private investments.
 IMEC is a significant infrastructure project
connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe.
 It involves the development of transport
corridors, including railways and sea lanes.
 Seen as an alternative to China’s Belt and
Road Initiative (BRI), offering a different Invitee Countries
infrastructure network. Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands,
Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and UAE
 G20 Global Partnership for Financial
Inclusion Document Demonstration of Indian Art & Culture
 Recognition of India’s Digital Public  Bharat Mandapam (inspired from Anubhav
Mandapam)
Infrastructure (DPI): The G20 Global  Bronze statue of Lord Nataraja (Chola style)
Partnership for Financial Inclusion document,  Konark Chakra of Odisha's Sun Temple and Image
prepared by the World Bank, commends the of Nalanda University (used as iconic backdrops)
 Thanjavur Paintings and Dhokra art
transformative impact of India’s Digital Public  Brass statue of Lord Buddha sitting under Bodhi tree
Infrastructure (DPI) over the past decade.  Diverse musical heritage (Hindustani, Folk, Carnatic,
Devotional)
Other events related to the Summit
 More than 200 G-20 meetings in more than 50
cities of India were held.
 Meetings related to G-20 were also organized G20 now G21
Permanent membership of African Union in G20 (in
in Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra
line with India as the 'Voice of the Global South')
and Greater Noida.
CURRENT DRISHTI (10) October, 2023
 G-20 Summit, 2022 Mission Profile
 On November 15-16, 2022, the 17th Summit
of the Heads of State/Government of
G-20 countries was held. This summit was
organized in Bali, Indonesia.
 The central theme of this summit organized
under the chairmanship of Indonesia was
‘Recover Together, Recover Stronger’.
 In the 17th G-20 summit, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi represented India.  L1 here refers to Lagrange Point 1 of the Sun-
 India’s G-20 Sherpa was Amitabh Kant in this Earth system.
conference. Lagrange Points
 On the sidelines of the G-20 Summit, Prime  For a two body gravitational system, the
Minister Narendra Modi along with other Lagrange Points are the positions in space
G-20 leaders visited the ‘Taman Hutan where a small object tends to stay, if put there.
Raya Ngurah Rai’ mangrove forests in Bali,  These points in space for a two body systems
Indonesia and planted mangrove saplings. such as Sun and Earth can be used by
 India has joined the “Mangroves Alliance for spacecraft to remain at these positions with
Climate” under G-20 presidency of Indonesia. reduced fuel consumption.
 Technically at Lagrange point, the gravitational
 It is noteworthy that ‘Mangrove Alliance for
pull of the two large bodies equals the
Climate’ is a joint initiative of Indonesia and
necessary centripetal force required for a
United Arab Emirates (UAE). small object to move with them.
 For two body gravitational systems, there are
Aditya-L1: India’s first solar
total five Lagrange points denoted as L1, L2,
mission L3, L4 and L5.
Recently, using a polar satellite launch  This allows an object placed there to remain
vehicle (PSLV-C57), Aditya-L1 was launched from relatively stable with respect to both celestial
Sriharikota, just a few days after Chandrayaan-3’s bodies.
 The spacecraft shall be placed in a halo orbit
Vikram Lander made a successful soft landing in
around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-
the Moon’s south pole zone.
Earth system, which is about 1.5 million km from
About Aditya-L1 the Earth.
 Launched by: Indian Space Research What is Halo Orbit
Organisation (ISRO)  A halo orbit is a periodic, three-dimension-
 Launched on: September 2nd, 2023 al orbit near one of the L1, L2 or L3 Lagrange
 Spacecraft: PSLV-C-57 points in the three-body problem of orbital
 Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, mechanics.
Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh  Although a Lagrange point is just a point in
 Aditya L1 shall be the first space based Indian empty space, its peculiar characteristic is that
mission to study the Sun. it can be orbited by a Lissajous orbit or by a
 Aditya in Sanskrit means the Sun. halo orbit.
October, 2023 (11) CURRENT DRISHTI
  These can be thought of as resulting from Identify the sequence of processes that
 

an interaction between the gravitational pull occur at multiple layers (chromosphere,

of the two planetary bodies and the Corio- base and extended corona) which eventually
leads to solar eruptive events.
lis and centrifugal force on a spacecraft.
Magnetic field topology and magnetic field
 
 Halo orbits exist in any three-body system,
measurements in the solar corona.
e.g., a Sun–Earth–orbiting satellite system or
Drivers for space weather (origin,
 
an Earth–Moon–orbiting satellite system.
composition and dynamics of solar wind.
 Because halo orbits tend to be unstable, sta-
tion-keeping using thrusters may be required Payloads
to keep a satellite on the orbit.  The Aditya-L1 mission carries a suit of seven

 Most satellites in halo orbit serve scientific

scientific payloads to carry out systematic study
of the Sun.
purposes, for example space telescopes.
 Five by ISRO and two by Indian academic
 A satellite placed in the halo orbit around the L1 institutes in collaboration with ISRO.
point has the major advantage of continuously 1. Visible Emission Line Coronagraph
viewing the Sun without any occultation/eclipses. (VELC): This payload will image the solar
 This will provide a greater advantage of observing corona in the visible light spectrum. It will help to
the solar activities and its effect on space weather study the structure and dynamics of the corona,
in real time. and to understand the mechanisms that heat it
 According to ISRO, Aditya-L1 is the first space- up.
based observatory to study the Sun. 2. Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope
 Previously, space agencies of Europe, the US, (SUIT): This payload will image the solar
Japan and China have launched such missions. chromosphere and transition region in the
Objective of the Mission: ultraviolet light spectrum. It will help to study
the heating and dynamics of these layers, and to
 The major science objectives of Aditya-L1
understand the origin of the solar wind.
mission are:
3. Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer
  Study of Solar upper atmospheric
(SoLEXS): This payload will measure the
(chromosphere and corona) dynamics.
spectrum of the solar X-rays. It will help to study
  Study of chromospheric and coronal
the solar flares and coronal mass ejections, and to
heating, physics of the partially ionized
understand the physics of the solar atmosphere.
plasma, initiation of the coronal mass
4. High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer
ejections, and flares
(HEL1OS): This payload will measure the
  Observe the in-situ particle and plasma spectrum of the solar X-rays in the high-energy
environment providing data for the study range. It will help to study the solar flares and
of particle dynamics from the Sun. coronal mass ejections, and to understand the
  Physics of solar corona and its heating acceleration of particles in the solar atmosphere.
mechanism. 5. Plasma Analyser Package For Aditya
  Diagnostics of the coronal and coronal (PAPA): This payload will measure the properties
loops plasma: Temperature, velocity and of the solar wind plasma, such as its density,
density. temperature, and composition. It will help to
  Development, dynamics and origin of study the interaction between the solar wind and
CMEs. the Earth’s magnetosphere.
CURRENT DRISHTI (12) October, 2023
6. Aditya Solar wind Particle Experiment
(ASPEX): This payload will measure the Negotiations to Revive Black
properties of the energetic particles in the solar Sea Grain Deal
wind, such as their energy, charge, and mass. It
Recently Turkish president Recep Tayyip
will help to study the acceleration of particles
Erdogan said Russian President Vladimir Putin is
in the solar atmosphere, and the effects of
considering a way to revive the Black Sea Grain
these particles on the Earth’s atmosphere and Initiative after he met him on September 4, 2023.
environment.
7. Solar Irradiance Monitor (SIM): This payload Black Sea Grain Initiative
 Came into existence: July 2022
will measure the solar irradiance, which is the total
 Deal brokered by: Turkey, the United Nations,
amount of energy emitted by the Sun. It will help
Ukraine and Russia
to study the variability of the solar irradiance, and
 Objective: to ease the Kremlin’s naval blockade
its effects on the Earth’s climate.
in the Black Sea for agricultural exports
The Sun  Current status: defunct
 The Sun is the nearest star and the largest
Key Points
object in the solar system.
 The Black Sea Grain initiative was created to
 The estimated age of sun is about 4.5 billion
tackle escalating food prices due to supply chain
years. disruptions because of Russian –Ukraine conflict.
 It is a hot glowing ball of hydrogen and  As Ukraine is one of the biggest exporter of
helium gases. grains in the world (and hence also called world’s
 The distance to the sun from the earth is about breadbasket),the war created shortages of food
150 million kilometres, and is the source of grains across the globe.
energy for our solar system.  The deal brokered by the United Nations (UN)
 Without the solar energy the life on earth, as and Turkey, was signed in Istanbul in July, 2022.
we know, cannot exist.  The Initiative specifically allows for commercial
 The gravity of the sun holds all the objects of food and fertilizer (including ammonia) exports
the solar system together. from three key Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea
 At the central region of the sun, known as – Odesa, Chornomorsk, Yuzhny/Pivdennyi.
‘core’, the temperature can reach as high as 15  Initially stipulated for a period of 120 days,
million degree Celsius. the deal was to provide for a safe maritime
 At this temperature, a process called nuclear humanitarian corridor for Ukrainian
fusion takes place in the core which powers exports (particularly for food grains).
the sun.  A Joint Coordination Committee( JCC) was
 The visible surface of the sun known as established and included representatives from
photosphere is relatively cool and has Russia, Türkiye, Ukraine and the UN to monitor
temperature of about 5,500°C. the implementation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
 This PSLV-C57/Aditya-L1 mission can be  The JCC is hosted in Istanbul .The UN acts also
counted as one of the longest missions involving as the Secretariat for the Centre.
ISRO’s workhorse launch vehicle.  However after 1 year of the deal Russia backed
 However, the longest of the PSLV missions is
out from it.
still the 2016 PSLV-C35 mission which was Reasons for Russia’s exit
completed two hours, 15 minutes and 33  The Kremlin has said that only Ukraine
seconds after lift-off. benefited from the pact.
October, 2023 (13) CURRENT DRISHTI
 It has accused that promises made to it under  Organized at: Tbilisi, Georgia
the deal have not been met, and it is still  Organized on: September 5-7, 2023
facing trouble exporting its own agricultural  Theme: Strengthening Regional Cooperation
products and fertilisers because of the many and Integration through Economic Corridor
sanctions the West has slapped on it. Development (ECD)
 Russia has also said that it had agreed to the  Participation: more than 30 member nations
grain deal in order to help ensure global food
Objective of the Conference
security, but Ukraine has since exported mainly
 Explore ways to integrate spatial transformation/
to high-and middle-income countries.
area-centric approach with the ECD and
 Conclusively Russia has said that it will
strengthen regional cooperation through a
“consider the possibility of reviving the grain
broader approach.
deal” provided that Russian agricultural products
 Knowledge sharing on application of the ECD
are “fully implemented” in the new agreement.
framework and operational guidelines for
Black Sea Grain Initiative Corridor investable projects.
Asian Development Bank
 ADB is a regional development bank
Ukraine
established in 1966 with objective of achieving
a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable
Odesa Yuzhne Russia Asia and the Pacific.
Chomemorsk
 It has 68 members; 49 are from within Asia
and the Pacific and 19 outside.
Black Sea
 India is one of the founding member of
ADB.
Istanbul  As of 31st December 2022, ADB’s five
Turkiye largest shareholders are Japan and the
US (each with 15.6% of total
.....Maritime Connectivity - Black Sea Routes
shares), China (6.4%), India (6.3%),
and Australia (5.8%).
Asian Development Bank’s  It is headquartered in Manila, Philippines.
2023 Regional Cooperation and India at the RCI Conference
 India showcased PM GatiShakti, the GIS data-
Integration (RCI) Conference
based, ‘whole of Government’ approach to
Recently India presented its PM Gatishakti integrated infrastructure master planning.
National Master Plan at the 2023 Regional  India also pointed out that ADB and partner
Cooperation and Integration Conference organized countries can draw lessons for broadening
by Asian Development Bank (ADB) at Tbilisi, the scope of their regional cooperation
Georgia. programmes like South Asia Subregional
About the RCI Conference Economic Cooperation (SASEC), by integrating
 Name: 2023 Regional Cooperation and area-centric growth models on the lines of Gati
Integration Conference Shakti approach.
 Organised by: Asian Development Bank  India projected that Gati Shakti has evidenced
(ADB) benefits of bringing time and cost savings to
CURRENT DRISHTI (14) October, 2023
 project planning, as well as reducing carbon What is Advance Pricing Agreement (APA)?
footprint of infra projects.    An Advance Pricing Agreement (APA) is an
 India also presented other digital initiatives in agreement between the tax administration and a
the logistics sector namely, the Unified Logistics person (taxpayer), which determines, in advance,
Interface Platform (ULIP) and Logistics Data the Arm’s Length Price (ALP) or specifies the
Bank (LDB), as effective measures for trade manner of the determination of ALP (or both),
facilitation and ease of logistics. in relation to an international transaction.
PM GatiShakti National Master Plan for  An arm’s length transaction refers to a
Multi-modal Connectivity business deal in which buyers and sellers act
 It is a Government of India initiative for independently without one party influencing
the other or,
transformative ‘whole-of-government’
 Arm’s Length Price is defined as:
approach for integrated planning of multi-
  a price applied or proposed to be applied
modal infrastructure connectivity to  in a transaction between persons other
economic nodes and social infrastructure, than associated enterprises
thereby improving logistics efficiency.  in uncontrolled conditions.
 PM Gati Shakti principles bring socio-
 The primary objective of such programmes is to
economic area-based development as part of provide certainty to taxpayers in respect of the
regional connectivity. pricing of cross-border transactions undertaken
 It was launched in October 2021 and by taxpayers with their group entities.
subsumed Rs. 110 lakh crore National  The APA programme in India was launched in
Infrastructure Pipeline launched in 2019. 2012 vide the Finance Act, 2012.
 It also provides a Geographic Information  Under the Indian APA programme, APAs
System (GIS) data-based digital platform with can be bilateral (involving CBDT and the tax
over 1400 data layers and 50+ tools. authorities of another country) or unilateral
 It provides visual representation of trunk (involving the CBDT only).
and utility infrastructure, land use, existing Key Highlights
structures, soil quality, habitation, tourism  In FY 2022-23, CBDT recorded the highest
sites, forest sensitive areas etc. ever APA signings in any financial year since the
launch of the APA programme, signing a total
5th Annual Advance Pricing of 95 APAs.
 CBDT also signed 32 Bilateral Advance Pricing
Agreement (APA) Report
Agreements (BAPAs) in FY 2022-23 being the
Recently, the Central Board of Direct Taxes maximum number of BAPAs in any financial
has published the 5 th annual Advance Pricing year till date.
Agreement (APA) Report. The report highlights
Significance of Advance Pricing Agreements
various achievements of the APA programme in
 The APA programme is an important tool to
FY 2022-23.
decongest the tax tribunals and higher judiciary
About 5 Advance Pricing Agreement (APA)
th
of transfer pricing litigation.
Report  The APA program aligns with the Indian
 Published in- September, 2023 government’s objective of promoting ease of
 Published by- Central Board of Direct Taxes doing business.
October, 2023 (15) CURRENT DRISHTI
About Central Board of Direct Taxes reliable, green, sustainable and cost-effective
(CBDT) logistics network by leveraging best in class
technology, processes and skilled manpower.
 The CBDT is a part of Department of
 This will reduce logistics cost and improve
Revenue in the Ministry of Finance.
performance.
 On one hand, CBDT provides essential
inputs for policy and planning of direct taxes Targets
in India,at the same time it is also responsible  The targets of the NLP are to:
for administration of direct tax laws through (i) Reduce cost of logistics in India;
the Income Tax Department. (ii) improve the Logistics Performance Index
ranking – endeavor is to be among top 25
 The Central Board of Direct Taxes is a
countries by 2030
statutory authority functioning under the
(iii) 
Create data driven decision support
Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963.
mechanism for an efficient logistics
 The officials of the Board in their ex-officio
ecosystem.
capacity also function as a Division of the
Ministry dealing with matters relating to levy Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan
and collection of direct taxes. (CLAP)
 Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan (CLAP)
 The Central Board of Revenue as the
was launched as part of the NLP covering
Department apex body charged with the
eight action areas including (i) Integrated
administration of taxes came into existence
Digital Logistics Systems; (ii) Standardization
as a result of the Central Board of Revenue
of Physical Assets and Benchmarking of
Act, 1924.
Service Quality Standards; (iii) Logistics Human
 The Central Board of Revenue was split up
Resource Development and Capacity Building;
into two, namely the Central Board of Direct (iv) State engagement; (v) EXIM Logistics; (vi)
Taxes and Central Board of Excise and Services Improvement Framework; (vii) Sectoral
Customs with effect from 1.1.1964. Plans for Efficient Logistics (SPEL); and (viii)
Facilitation of Development of Logistics Parks.
India marks one year of launch
Progress on Implementation of NLP &
of National Logistics Policy CLAP
Recently, India has marked one year of the  Unified Logistics Interface Platform
National Logistics Policy on September 17, 2023. (ULIP): For digital integration in logistics
sector and to provide single sign to users who
About National Logistics Policy
are trading goods and using multiple modes
 Launched on- September 17, 2022
of transport – the Unified Logistics Interface
 Launched by- Prime Minister of India
Platform (ULIP) was launched along with the
 Completed one year on- September 17, 2023
NLP.
 The NLP addresses the soft infrastructure
  ULIP is an indigenous data-based platform
and logistics sector development aspect, inter
which integrates 34 logistics-related digital
alia, including process reforms, improvement in
systems /portals across Ministries /
logistics services, digitization, human resource Departments. It is worth noting that GST
development and skilling. data is also being integrated with ULIP.
Vision  ULIP provides opportunities to private sector
 The vision of NLP is to drive economic growth to develop use cases on ULIP.
and business competitiveness of the country  Over 614 industry players have registered on
through an integrated, seamless, efficient, ULIP.
CURRENT DRISHTI (16) October, 2023
 106 private companies have signed NDAs.
 142 companies have submitted 382 use cases to
Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)
be hosted on ULIP. On the sideline of the G20 Summit, the
 57 applications have been made live. Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi along with
EXIM Logistics: the World leaders launched the Global Biofuel
 To promote trade facilitation and streamline Alliance (GBA).
EXIM logistics, following measures have been About Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)
undertaken:  Launched on - September 9, 2023
 Infrastructure gaps are being addressed and  Launched in - New Delhi
digital initiatives undertaken (under National  GBA launched by- Prime Minister, Narendra
Committee on Trade Facilitation); Modi along with the leaders of Singapore,
 An EXIM Logistics Group has been
Bangladesh, Italy, USA, Brazil, Argentina,
constituted;
Mauritius, and UAE.
 A Comprehensive port connectivity plan was
developed for last mile connectivity to ports. Key Highlights
 Logistics Data Bank (LDB) for tracking EXIM About Global Biofuel Alliance
cargo.  Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA), a grouping
Human Resource Development of more than 30 countries and international
 To promote professionals in the sector, institutions, to facilitate adoption of biofuels,
Government is notifying qualification packs thereby unlocking bioenergy access in emerging
for different job roles in the sector. economies.
 A Webinar with Capacity Building  The Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) is an
Commission, Central Training Institutes initiative by India as the G20 Chair.
(CTIs) and State Administrative Training  The Alliance intends to expedite the global
Institutes (ATIs) was held. uptake of biofuels through facilitating
Sectoral Plan for Efficient Logistics (SPEL) technology advancements, intensifying
 Sectoral Plans for Efficient Logistics (SPEL) are
utilization of sustainable biofuels, shaping
being developed by user Ministries. robust standard setting and certification
  These include sector specific action plans
through the participation of a wide spectrum
/interventions necessary for seamless
of stakeholders.
movement of goods across different
 The alliance will also act as a central repository
origin-destination pairs.
of knowledge and an expert hub.
 So far, Comprehensive Port Connectivity
 GBA aims to serve as a catalytic platform,
Plan (CPCP) to bridge last mile gaps to ports,
fostering global collaboration for the
has been developed by M/o Port, Shipping and
advancement and widespread adoption of
Waterways.
biofuels.
State Engagement
 To bring holistic focus on ‘logistics’ in public MEMBERS OF GBA (Global Biofuel
policy at State level, States/UTs are developing Alliance)
State Logistics Plans (SLPs) aligned with NLP.  GBA Members includes—
  So far, 22 States have notified their G20 countries (7): Argentina, Brazil,
 
respective State Logistics policies. Canada, India Italy, South Africa, USA.
 Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) G20 invitee countries (4): Bangladesh,
 
index for logistics performance monitoring. Singapore, Mauritius, UAE.
October, 2023 (17) CURRENT DRISHTI
   on-G20 countries (8): Iceland, Kenya,
N
Guyana, Paraguay, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Viability Gap Funding Scheme
Uganda, Finland. for Battery Energy Storage
International
  organizations (12): Systems
World Bank, ADB, WEF, World
LPG Organization, UN Energy for All, Recently, The Union Cabinet, chaired by the
UNIDO, Biofutures Platform, ICAO, IEA, Hon’ble Prime Minister approves the Scheme for
International Energy Forum, IRENA, Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for development of
World Biogas Association. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
IMPORTANCE OF GBA (Global Biofuel About Viability Gap Funding Scheme
Alliance)  Approved on – September 6, 2023
 GBA will help raise awareness of biofuels’ vital  Aim- To Energize the Nation for a Brighter
role in greenhouse gas reduction. Tomorrow.
 It drives global sustainable biofuel development,  Target - Development of 4,000 MWh of BESS
aids national programs, shares policy insights, projects by 2030-31.
builds capacity, reshapes perception, and boosts Key Highlights
global trade. VGF Scheme for Battery Storage
  It will help promote best practices for  The approved scheme envisages development
efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable of 4,000 MWh of BESS projects by 2030-31,
feedstock use. with a financial support of up to 40% of the
 GBA will Ensure a stable supply of eco-fuels
capital cost as budgetary support in the form of
and create a virtual marketplace connecting Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
industries, countries, and tech providers,  The move is expected to bring down the cost of
enhancing demand-supply mapping.
battery storage systems increasing their viability.
Will this alliance help India in achieving  Designed to harness the potential of renewable
its target? energy sources such as solar and wind power,
 This will help India become the voice of the the scheme aims to provide clean, reliable, and
global south by getting countries which are still affordable electricity to the citizens.
to start their biofuels programme.  To ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach
 For India, it will provide additional opportunities the consumers, a minimum of 85% of the
to its industries by exporting technology and BESS project capacity will be made available to
equipment. Distribution Companies (Discoms).
 It will help accelerate India’s existing  This will not only enhance the integration
biofuel programmes such as – PM-JIVAN of renewable energy into the electricity grid
Yojna, SATAT, and GOBARdhan scheme . but also minimize wastage while optimizing
 Thereby contributing to increased farmers’ the utilization of transmission networks.
income, creating jobs and overall development Consequently, this will reduce the need for
of the Indian eco-system. costly infrastructure upgrades.
About Biofuel  By offering VGF support, the scheme targets
 Biofuel is defined as “liquid, solid, or gaseous achieving a Levelized Cost of Storage (LCoS)
fuel produced by conversion of biomass such ranging from Rs. 5.50-6.60 per kilowatt-hour
as bioethanol from sugar cane or corn, charcoal (kWh), making stored renewable energy a viable
or woodchips, and biogas from anaerobic option for managing peak power demand across
decomposition of wastes”. the country.
CURRENT DRISHTI (18) October, 2023
Objective  There are three segments in BESS :
 The Government of India remains committed   Front-of-the-meter (FTM) utility-scale
to promoting clean and green energy solutions, installations, which are typically larger than
and the BESS Scheme is a significant step ten megawatt-hours (MWh);
towards achieving this vision. Behind-the-meter (BTM) commercial and
 
 By harnessing the power of renewable energy industrial installations, which typically
and encouraging the adoption of battery storage, range from 30 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to ten
the government aims to create a brighter and MWh;
greener future for all citizen.
and BTM residential installations, which
 
Financial Support are usually less than 30 kWh (Exhibit 1).
 The VGF for development of BESS Scheme,
with an initial outlay of Rs.9,400 crore, including 5th International Solar Alliance
a budgetary support of Rs.3,760 crore, signifies (ISA) Regional Meeting
the government’s commitment to sustainable
energy solutions.  The International Solar Alliance (ISA) hosted
 The selection of BESS developers for VGF its 5th regional meeting in Kigali, Rwanda,
grants will be carried out through a transparent August 31, 2023, supported by the Government
competitive bidding process, promoting a level of Rwanda, with 36 countries and Ministers of
playing field for both public and private sector 15 countries participating.
entities.  At the meeting, the President, International
 The VGF shall be disbursed in five tranches Solar Alliance and Union Minister for Power
linked with the various stages of implementation and New & Renewable Energy, Government of
of BESS projects.
India, Shri R. K. Singh, who joined the meeting
 This approach will foster healthy competition
virtually from New Delhi, inaugurated a total of
and encourage   the growth of a robust
ecosystem for BESS, attracting significant nine solar power demonstration projects.
investments and generating opportunities for  These projects inaugurated across three
associated industries. countries: 4 in Uganda, 2 in Comoros and 3 in
Mali.
About Battery storage, or battery energy
 During the meeting, a report titled “Roadmap
storage systems (BESS)
 Battery storage technologies are essential to
of Solar Energy for Universal Energy Access”,
speeding up the replacement of fossil fuels with was unveiled.
renewable energy. About ISA
  Battery storage systems will play an  The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an
increasingly pivotal role between green alliance of 116 signatory countries, most
energy supplies and responding to
being sunshine countries, which lie either
electricity demands.
completely or partly between the Tropic of
  Battery storage, or battery energy
storage systems (BESS), are devices Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
that enable energy from renewables,  In January 2016, Narendra Modi, and the
like solar and wind, to be stored and then then French President François Hollande
released when the power is needed most. jointly laid the foundation stone of the ISA
What are the main opportunities? Headquarters and inaugurated the interim
 The best way to get a sense of the opportunities Secretariat at the National Institute of Solar
associated with BESS is to segment the market Energy (NISE) in Gwal Pahari, Gurugram,
by the applications and sizes of users. India.
October, 2023 (19) CURRENT DRISHTI
  Headquarter: Gurugram, India Africa is a resource-rich nation dominated
 

 The goal is to raise the more than $1 trillion by commodities like crude oil, gas, leather,
in capital that will be required to implement gold and other metals, all of which India
solar energy by 2030. lacks in sufficient quantities.
 116 nations are members or signatories   Namibia and Niger are among the top ten
(including India). global producers of uranium.
 The United Nations is open to all of its  India is seeking diversification of its oil supplies
member nations. away from the Middle East and Africa can play
 Current President: India an important role in India’s energy matrix.
 Eastern African nations’ geographical location,
Highlights of the Report natural resources, security concerns, and
 The report outlines a strategic approach to
regional engagements collectively position them
effectively and economically tackle the global
as key actors in the global geopolitics of the
energy access challenge using solar-powered
Indian Ocean Region (IOR), with significant
solutions.
implications for international trade, security,
 It encompasses case studies, real-world
and diplomacy.
examples, and innovative policies aimed at
bringing about a transformative shift in the Kigali
implementation of solar mini-grids.  Kigali, city and capital of Rwanda.
 The report’s conclusions hold significant  It is located in the centre of the country on
relevance for Africa, especially the Sub-Saharan the Ruganwa River.
region and rural areas.  Rwanda is a landlocked country in the
 It identifies a range of electrification strategies Great Rift Valley of Central Africa, where
centred on solar energy, particularly focusing on the African Great Lakes region and Southeast
solar mini-grids and Decentralised Renewable Africa converge.
Energy solutions.  Located a few degrees south of the Equator,
 These approaches offer effective solutions to Rwanda is bordered by Uganda, Tanzania,
address diverse energy access challenges. Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of
Importance of Africa for India the Congo.
 According to International Renewable Energy
Agency (IRENA), clean energy contributes a 6th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2023
minuscule 5% of the overall energy generation  The Ministry of Women and Child Development
mix in North African countries compared to celebrating the 6th Rashtriya Poshan Maah
the global average of 25%. throughout September 2023.
  In Egypt, Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia  The focal point of Poshan Maah 2023 is to
& Mauritania, renewables continue to play cultivate widespread awareness concerning
second fiddle to fossil fuels despite these critical human life stages: pregnancy, infancy,
countries’ serious efforts to decarbonize childhood, and adolescence.
their energy systems.  The aim is to foster nutritional understanding
 Both India and Africa have immense potential across India through a theme centered on
in the field of renewable energy, especially solar “Suposhit Bharat, Sakshar Bharat, Sashakt
energy. Collaboration here could fulfill the Bharat” (Nutrition-rich India, Educated India,
dream of “One World, One Grid.” Empowered India).
CURRENT DRISHTI (20) October, 2023
 The Ministry of Women and Child Development  Panchayat level: awareness events will
has decided certain events to instill nutritious be organized by local functionaries under
food in everyone’s own capacity of taking food the instructions of the concerned District
and increase the health-seeking behavior. Some Panchayati Raj CDPOs, and Officers.
of the events are as follows: About Poshan Maah
  Concentrating generally on the importance  Rashtriya Poshan Maah will be celebrated in
of rainwater conservation among ladies collaboration with all stakeholders from the 1st
at Anganwadi centers and on traditional to the 30th of September.
foods in tribal fields for healthy mother  The Focal point of Poshan Maah 2023: To
and child. cultivate widespread awareness concerning
  Identifying land for Nutri-Gardens or critical human life stages: pregnancy, infancy,
Poshan Vatikas at or near Centres of the childhood, and adolescence.
Anganwadi.  Theme: “Suposhit Bharat, Sakshar Bharat,
  Making a national level toy-making Sashakt Bharat” (Nutrition-rich India, Educated
workshop to promote utilization of India, Empowered India).
indigenous and local toys for learning in
POSHAN Abhiyaan
Centres of the Anganwadi.
 Launched in: 2018
Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2023 at Different  Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the
Level implementation of the scheme being done by
 National Level: A national level toy-maker States/UTs.
workshop will be conducted to promote use of  Aim:
local toys and indigenous toys for learning in  To target the unique 1,000-day window
Anganwadi Centres. of childbirth and pre- and post-
 Poshan Panchayat Committees will function delivery support to mothers to reduce
too closely with field level workers (FLWs) – malnutrition.
ANMs, AWWs, ASHAs.   To improve nutritional status of
 This is to support problem solving and enabling children (0-6 years), adolescent girls,
service delivery through Anganwadi Centres pregnant women and lactating mothers.
(AWCs), Village Health and Nutrition Day  To reduce anaemia among women and
(VHNDs), and other respective platforms. adolescent girls (15-49 years) and young
 The objective is to confirm all pregnant and children(6-59 months) and improve
lactating women, children below 06 years, and birth weight.
adolescent girls get basic Integrated Child  Prevent and reduce Stunting in
Development facilities. children (0- 6 years)
 State Level: Under the State – level events,  Prevent and reduce under-
‘Amma ki Rasoi’ or Grandmother’s Kitchen of nutrition (underweight prevalence) in
traditional nutritious recipes will be conducted. children (0-6 years)
created State/UT women and child development  Pillars of Implementation:
authorities.   Technology (Integrated Child
 With the help of its functionaries, will carry out Development Services-Computer
many thematic events and spread the message application software)
of the importance of holistic nutrition with the  Convergence Action Planning
help of the month to confirm a healthier future   Behavioral Change Communication and
for women and children. Capacity Building

October, 2023 (21) CURRENT DRISHTI

 In 6th Census, post-monsoon average
 
6th Census Report On Minor ground water level was also canvassed in
Irrigation (MI) Schemes village schedule.
Recently, the Ministry of Jal Shakti, What is Minor Irrigation Scheme?
Department of Water Resources, River Development  Minor irrigation (MI) schemes are defined
and Ganga Rejuvenation released the report on the as those structures either in ground water or
6th census on minor irrigation schemes. in surface water category having Culturable
About 6th Census Report On Minor Irrigation Command Area (CCA) up to 2,000 ha.
(MI) Schemes  The Ground water schemes comprise dug well,
 Released on- August 26, 2023
dug-cum-bore wells, shallow, medium and deep
 Released by- Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department
tubewells.
of Water Resources, River Development and  The surface water scheme comprises surface
Ganga Rejuvenation flow schemes and surface lift irrigation schemes.
 Reference year- The 6th Census of MI schemes
 The surface flow schemes typically consists of
was conducted with reference year 2017-18 tanks, check-dams, structures and can serve as
water conservation cum ground water recharge
Background of Minor Irrigation Scheme? scheme.
 The first census of minor irrigation schemes  These structures are generally prevalent in hilly
was conducted with reference year 1986-87 and regions.
the report was published in November 1993.  Surface lift schemes are generally built in regions
 The 5th Census of minor irrigation schemes was where topography does not permit direct flow
conducted with reference year 2013-14. irrigation from rivers and streams and hence
  The national report of 5 MI census was water has to be lifted into irrigation channels.
published in 2017.
 The 6th Census of minor irrigation schemes Key Findings
 23.14 million Minor Irrigation (MI) schemes
was conducted with reference year 2017-18.
 Three schedules namely village schedule, ground were reported in the country from 695 districts
water schedule and surface water schedule were and 6,47,394 villages.
canvassed in this Census.   Out of all MI schemes, 21.93 million
 The First Census of Water Bodies was (94.8%) are Ground Water (GW) and 1.21
conducted in convergence with the 6th Minor million (5.2%) are Surface Water (SW)
Irrigation schemes, for which two additional scheme.
 Dugwell has highest amount of share in total
schedules namely urban schedule and water
body schedule were canvassed. number of MI schemes followed by shallow
 In 5th Census, only pre-monsoon average tubewell, medium tubewell and deep tubewell.
 Uttar Pradesh possesses the largest number of
ground water level in a village was taken.
CURRENT DRISHTI (22) October, 2023
 MI schemes in the country (17.2%) followed by lakh schemes.
Maharashtra (15.4%), Madhya Pradesh (9.9%)  There has been increase of about 1.42 million
and Tamil Nadu (9.1%). in MI schemes with their number standing at
 Leading States in GW schemes are Uttar 23.1 million during 6 MI Census as compared
Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil to 21.7 million in 5 Census.
Nadu and Telangana.   At the national level, both GW and SW
 In SW schemes Maharashtra, Karnataka, schemes have increased by 6.9% and 1.2%,
Telangana, Odisha and Jharkhand have the respectively.
highest share.  Maharashtra is the leading State in dug-wells,
 Out of 32 States/UTs, 10 States have more surface flow and surface lift schemes.
than 10 lakh MI schemes and 7 States have MI  Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Punjab are the
schemes ranging between 1 lakh to 10 lakh. leading States in shallow tube-wells, medium
  Remaining 15 States/UTs have less than 1 tube-wells and deep tube-wells, respectively.
Leading States in Number of MI Schemes by Type
Dugwell Shallow Medium Deep Tubewell Surface Flow Surface Lift
Tubewell Tubewell

 Maharashtra  Uttar Pradesh  Karnataka  Punjab  Maharashtra  Maharashtra

 Tamil Nadu  Madhya Pradesh  Telangana  Andhra Pradesh  Karnataka  Odisha
 Madhya Pradesh  Gujarat  Bihar  Rajasthan  Jharkhand  Karnataka
 Rajasthan  West Bengal  Punjab  Telangana  Telangana  Telangana
 Telangana  Andhra Pradesh  Uttar Pradesh  Karnataka  Andhra Pradesh  Madhya Pradesh

 Out of all MI schemes, 97.0% are ‘in use’, 2.1%

New Bills to overhaul criminal
are ‘temporarily not in use’ whereas 0.9% are
‘permanently not in use’. laws
 Shallow tube-wells and medium tube-wells lead The Centre on August 11 introduced three
in the category of ‘in use’ schemes. new Bills in the Lok Sabha that propose a complete
 A majority of MI schemes (96.6%) are under overhaul of the country’s criminal justice system.
private ownership. About the Bills
 In GW schemes, the share of private entities in  Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced
the ownership is 98.3% whereas in SW schemes three bills in the Lok Sabha, aimed at reforming
the respective share is 64.2%. India’s criminal justice system.
 For the first time, the information about gender  The three Bills are set to replace the Indian
of the owner of MI scheme was also collected Penal Code (IPC), 1860; the Code of Criminal
Procedure (CrPC), 1973 and the Indian
in case of individual ownership.
Evidence Act, 1872.
  Out of all the individually owned schemes,
 The IPC is set to be replaced by the Bharatiya
18.1% are owned by women.
Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
 Around 60.2% schemes have single source of  The CrPC will be replaced by the Bharatiya
finance whereas 39.8% schemes have more than Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
one source of finance.  The Indian Evidence Act will be replaced by
 In single source of finance, majority of schemes the Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023.
(79.5%) are being financed by own savings of  The criminal justice system in the nation followed
individual farmer. British-made rules from 1860 until 2023.
October, 2023 (23) CURRENT DRISHTI
 The bills have been referred to a Parliamentary Union of India, where Section 497 of the IPC,
Standing Committee. which criminalized adultery, was held to be
 The proposals will be reviewed and discussed unconstitutional.
by the committee clause by clause.  The proposed legislation does not include any
 It will request testimony on the provisions of the penalties for “unnatural sexual offences against
legislation from Home Ministry representatives. men”.
 It will also send out a public notice inviting  This is in light of the Supreme Court’s
relevant stakeholders and experts to furnish the unanimous reading down of Section 377 of
Committee with their opinions on the bills. the IPC as far as it criminalized same-sex
 These stakeholders can include lawyers, law encounters between consenting adults in Navtej
students, jurists, senior journalists, etc.
Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018).
 The Committee will submit a thorough report
 The provision legalising marital rape has
and recommendations to the government when
however been retained.
it has thoroughly analysed about the Bills.
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill,
Key highlights of the Bills
2023
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
 The Bill will replace the CrPC by repealing nine
 This Bill, which seeks to replace the IPC by
of its provisions.
repealing 22 of its provisions, proposes changes
to 175 existing provisions and introduces eight  It proposes changes to 160 provisions and
new sections. introduces nine new provisions.
 It contains a total of 356 provisions.  It contains a total of 533 sections.
 The new provisions include — Section 109:  A formal provision (Section 230) has been
Organised crime; Section 110: Petty organised added to make sure that the accused and the
crime or organised crime in general; Section victim have free access to a copy of the FIR
111: Offence if terrorist act; Section 150: Acts within 14 days of the accused’s production or
endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of appearance.
India and Section 302: Snatching.  The Bill also permits the filing of a zero FIR
 The punishment for all types of gang rape will from any part of the country.
now include 20 years of imprisonment or life Zero FIR
imprisonment.
 When a police station receives a complaint
 The first time capital punishment has been
regarding an alleged offence committed in
introduced for the offence of mob lynching
the jurisdiction of another police station,
apart from the offence being made punishable
it registers an FIR and then transfers it
with 7 years of imprisonment or life
to the relevant police station for further
imprisonment (Section 101).
investigation; this is called a zero FIR.
 The Bill also criminalizes sexual intercourse
under the false pretext of marriage or by  Other changes to expedite the procedure
deceitful means (Section 69). include the facility for an accused person to be
 The provision for the offence of adultery has examined through electronic means, like video
also been omitted. conferencing.
 This is in line with the Supreme Court’s  Summary trials have been made mandatory for
ruling in 2018 in the case of Joseph Shine v. petty and less serious cases.
CURRENT DRISHTI (24) October, 2023
Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023 exact share of their parent in the ancestral
 The Indian Evidence Act will be replaced by property.
Bill which proposes changes to 23 provisions  This determination involves conducting a
and introduces one new provision. “notional partition” of the ancestral property
 It contains 170 sections in total. to calculate the portion that the parent would
 The Bill highlights that the Indian Evidence Act have received immediately before their death.
has been repealed because it fails to ‘address  Once the share of the deceased parent in the
the technological advancement undergone in property is ascertained through such a notional
the country during the last few decades.’ partition, his heirs, including his children by
 The Bill permits the admissibility of an means of void or voidable marriage, would be
electronic or digital record as evidence and will entitled to their portions in the share.
have legal validity as documentary evidence.  The Chief Justice said that Section 16 of the
Hindu Marriage Act has statutorily conferred
Supreme Court’s Verdict on legitimacy to children born out of void or
Inheritance voidable marriages.
  The CJI pointed out that Section 16(3)
 The Supreme Court on September 1, 2023 held
stipulates that children from void and
that a child born of a void or voidable marriage
voidable marriages would have a right to
can inherit the parent’s share in a joint Hindu
their parents’ property.
family property governed by the Mitakshara
 Children from void or voidable marriages are
law.
considered “legitimate kin” under the Hindu
 A three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of
Succession Act, 1956 which governs inheritance.
India D.Y. Chandrachud however clarified that
 They cannot be deemed illegitimate when it
such a child would not be entitled to rights in
comes to inheriting family property.
or to the property of any other person in the
 The court also noted that after the enactment
family.
of the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act,
Important Terms 2005, the share of a deceased person in a joint
 Voidable Marriage: A voidable marriage is a Hindu family governed by Mitakashara law can
marriage that is initially valid but has certain be devolved to his heirs by testamentary or
defects or conditions that can lead to its an- intestate succession.
nulment if one of the parties chooses to do   Prior to the amendment, the devolution
so. was only through survivorship. Besides,
 Void Marriage: A void marriage is one that the amendment gave equal rights of
is considered invalid from the very beginning succession to women as well as men.
as if it never existed in the eyes of the law.
Supreme Cour t Rulings Regarding
 Mitakashara law: It is the law of succession
Daughter’s Inheritance
governing Hindu Undivided Families (HUF)
 In June 2022, the SC in Kattukandi Edathil
applies to the whole of India except West
Krishnan & Another Vs Kattukandi
Bengal and Assam. It is one of the two ma-
Edathil Valsan & Others ruled that children
jor schools of Hindu law, the other being the
born to partners in live-in relationships can be
Dayabhaga School.
considered legitimate.
Key Highlights of the Ruling   This is conditional in a way that the rela-
 The first step in inheritance for a child from tionship needs to be long-term and not
a void or voidable marriage is to ascertain the of ‘walk in, walk out’ nature.
October, 2023 (25) CURRENT DRISHTI
 In Arunachala Gounder v. Ponnusamy,  This State-level plan will align with WHO’s

2022 case, the Supreme Court that the global action plan, positioning Karnataka as a
self-acquired property of a Hindu male dying pioneer in India to formulate a comprehensive
intestate i.e., without writing a will, would de- action plan for dementia.
volve by inheritance and not by succession. Dementia
  The Court said that such property shall  Dementia is an umbrella term encompassing
be inherited by the daughter, in addi- diseases that affect memory, cognitive abili-
tion to the property of the coparcenary ties, and behaviour, hindering daily activities.
which was obtained through partition. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type
 In Vineeta Sharma v. Rakesh Sharma, 2020 of dementia.
case the Supreme Court held that a woman/  Risk factors for dementia include smoking,
daughter shall also be considered as a joint excessive alcohol consumption, physical inac-
legal heir as a son and can inherit ancestral tivity, social isolation, head injuries, and con-
property equally as a male heir, irrespective ditions like diabetes, hearing loss, depression,
that the father was not alive before the Hin- obesity, and hypertension.
du Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005, came
into effect. The CEC and Other EC
(Appointment, Conditions of
Dementia declared a public Service and Term of Office)
health priority in Karnataka Bill, 2023
 In September 2023, the Karnataka government On August 10, 2023, The Chief Election
has declared dementia a public health priority Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners
and unveiled a State Action Plan for Dementia, (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term
aiming to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and of Office) Bill, 2023, was introduced in Rajya
prioritise screening. Sabha. The bill repeals the Election Commission
 Karnataka is committed to prioritizing dementia (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners
as a health concern. and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991.
 Recent estimates indicate a 7.4% dementia Background
prevalence rate among Indians aged 60 and  On March 2, 2023 a five-judge Supreme Court
above, totaling approximately 9 lakh individuals. bench unanimously ruled that a high-power
This number is expected to surge from 88 lakh committee of the Prime Minister, Leader of
in 2016 to 1.7 crore by 2036. Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice
 Karnataka has initiated various programmes of India(CJI) must pick the CEC and ECs.
and services for dementia through the District  The Bill seeks to replace the Chief Justice
Mental Health Program, Karnataka Brain of India from the high-powered selection
Health Initiative and Non-Communicable committee.
Disease Control Programme. Election Commission
 Additionally, the presence of NIMHANS, a  As per Article 324 of the Constitution, the
premier mental health institution, and dedicated Election Commission consists of the Chief
service providers such as Nightingales Medical Election Commissioner (CEC) and such number
Trust and DIA further strengthens the care of other Election Commissioners (ECs), as the
provision. President may decide.
CURRENT DRISHTI (26) October, 2023
 The CEC and other ECs are appointed by the Term of office
President.  The 1991 Act mandates that the CEC and other
 The bill adds that the CEC and other ECs ECs will hold office for a term of six years or
will be appointed by the President on the until they reach the age of 65 years, whichever
recommendation of a Selection Committee. is earlier.
Selection Committee  If an EC is appointed as the CEC, his total term

 The Selection Committee will consist of: (i) the

cannot exceed six years.
 The Bill retains the same tenure. Further, under
Prime Minister as Chairperson, (ii) the Leader
of the Opposition in Lok Sabha as member, the Bill, the CEC and other ECs will not be
and (iii) a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by eligible for re-appointment.
the Prime Minister as member. Conduct of business
 If the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha has  All business of the Election Commission is to
not been recognised, the leader of the single be conducted unanimously.
largest opposition party in Lok Sabha will  In case of difference of opinion between the
assume the role. CEC and the other ECs on any matter, it shall
be decided through majority.
Search Committee
 A Search Committee will prepare a panel of five Removal and resignation
persons for the consideration of the Selection  Under Article 324 of the Constitution, the CEC
Committee. can only be removed from his office in a manner
 The Search Committee will be headed by the similar to that of a Supreme Court judge.
Cabinet Secretary.  This is done through an order of the President,
 It will have two other members, not below the based on a motion passed by both Houses of
rank of Secretary to the central government, Parliament in the same session.
having knowledge and experience in matters  The motion for removal must be adopted with:
related to elections. (i) majority support of total membership of
 The Selection Committee may also consider each House, and (ii) at least two-thirds support
candidates who have not been included in the from members present and voting.
panel prepared by the Search Committee.  An EC can only be removed from office on the
recommendation of the CEC.
Qualification of CEC and Ecs
 The Bill retains this removal procedure.
 Persons who are holding or have held posts
 Further, the 1991 Act provides that the CEC
equivalent to the rank of Secretary to the central
and other ECs may submit their resignation to
government will be eligible to be appointed as
the President.
CEC and ECs.
 The Bill has the same provision.
 Such persons must have expertise in managing
and conducting elections. PM–YASASVI Scheme
Salary and allowances  “Pm Young Achievers Scholarship Award
 The 1991 Act provides that the salary of the Scheme For Vibrant India For Other Backward
ECs will be equal to that of a Supreme Court Classes (OBCs) And Others (PM –YASASVI)”
judge. is an umbrella Scheme for Other Backward
 The Bill provides that salary, allowance, and Classes(OBCs), Economically Backward
service conditions of the CEC and other ECs Classes (EBCs) and Denotified, Nomadic and
will be the same as that of the Cabinet Secretary. semi-Nomadic Tribe (DNT).
October, 2023 (27) CURRENT DRISHTI
 It is a Central Sector Scheme for providing such as the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)
Top Class School Education to OBCs/EBCs & and the livestock insurance scheme.
DNTs.  The A-HELP Agents will act as a “livestock
 Implementing Agency- The Department resources person” for the designated area/village.
of Social Justice and Empowerment under  They will provide 24 × 7 services at the doorstep
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment of farmers.
Government of India . Conclusion
 Scholarship under the Scheme will be available
 The A-HELP programme is a significant step
for studies in India only and will be awarded by towards improving the health and productivity
the Central Government.
of livestock in India. It is expected to benefit
A-Help for Animal Husbandry millions of livestock farmers and contribute to
the overall development of livestock sector.
The Union Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala
inaugurated the ‘A-Help’ (Accredited Agent for Vindhyagiri Project 17A
Health and Extension of Livestock Production)
The president of India, Smt. Droupadi
Programme on August 14, 2023 in Gujarat.
Murmu, launched the Vindhyagiri, the sixth stealth
Aims frigate of project 17A, at the Garden Reach
 The programme was launched under the auspices Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) in
of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava. Kolkata on August 17, 2023.
 The programme aims to empower women
by engaging them as trained agents who
Key Incidents
 The Vindhyagiri is named after the Vindhya
contribute significantly in disease control,
artificial insemination under the Rashtriya Gokul Mountains range in Karnataka. It is 7500 ton
Mission, animal tagging and livestock insurance. warship that is equipped with a variety of
weapons and sensors including surface to air
Key Features of A-HELP Programme missiles, anti-submarine torpedoes and a 76 mm
 It will be implemented across the country by
gun.
using the existing cadre of pashu sakhis under  It is the sixth ship of project 17A frigates that
Day-NRLM for livestock. the currently under construction at GRSE.
 The A-HELP Agents will be provided with
 The project 17A frigates are an improved version
training and accreditation by the department of
of the project 17 shivalik class frigates, which
Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
are currently the backbone of the Indian Navy’s
 The A-HELP Agents will provided a range of
Fleet.
livestock health and extension services including:
 Animal Health Care Important Points regarding the Project
 Artificial Insemination  It has a top speed of 28 knots and a range of
 Livestock Insurance 4,000 nautical miles.
 Basic Sanitation and Hygiene Practices  It is also equipped with stealth features that make
 The A-HELP agents will also be responsible for it difficult to detect by radar.
promoting the adoption of modern livestock  They are designed to be more stealthy and have
management practices. enhanced capabilities that their predecessors.
Important Points Conclusion
 The programme will be launched in 100 districts  The launch of Vindhyagiri is a testament to
across the country. the Indian Navy’s growing capabilities and its
 They will also be involved in the implementation commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime
of government schemes for the livestock sector interests.
CURRENT DRISHTI (28) October, 2023
 Bibinagar, doubling of existing line between
Anduri Festival (Butter Holi) chopan-chunar and the quadrupling between
Uttarakhand (Himalayan State) is known Samakhiali-Gandhidham.
for its unique traditions, culture and festivals. One  The 9 states will increase the existing network
typical festival is the Butter festival or Butter Holi, of Indian Railways by 2339 km and provide
locally famous as Andhuri Utsav or Anduri Utsav. employment of an estimated 7.06 crore man-days
Highlights of the Utsava to the people of the states.
 Butter Holi is a festival in which the local dwellers Conclusion
smear milk, butter, buttermilk or chaanch on each  The Railway being environment friendly and
other. energy efficient mode of transportation, will help
 It is held in the lush velvety meadows of Dayara both in achieving climate goals and for reducing
Bugyal in Uttarkashi that graciously sprawn over logistics cost of the country.
an area of 28 sq. km.  it will provide seamless connectivity for
 The performers wear elaborate attires and
movement of people, goods and services.
perform skills of Lord Krishna and Radha.
Children also participate in the cultural programs, Matti Banana
make merry and enrapture themselves in the
festive spirit. Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari Matti Banana has
finally received the GI tags, making Tamil Nadu the
CCEA Approves 7 Multi- region with highest number of GI tagged products.
tracking Projects  The Banana variety is grown in specific taluks of
the Kanyakumari district. The application for GI
The cabinet committee on Economic Affairs tag (Matti Banana) was filled by the Kanyakumari
chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved 7 projects Banana and Horticulture farmers producer
of the ministry of railways with an estimated cost of company limited.
around Rs. 32,500 crore, with 100% funding from
Central Government on August 16, 2023. Key Points
 The Registration of GI is valid for a period of
Key Points 10 years.
 The projects covering 35 district in 9 states i.e.  Kanyakumari’s Matti banana is distinct with
: (1) Uttar Pradesh, (2) Bihar, (3) Telangana, (4) fragrance and honey like taste.
Andhra Pradesh, (5) Maharashtra, (6) Gujarat,  Known as Baby Banana, it flourished in Kalkulam
(7) Odisha, (8) Jharkhand, (9) West Bengal. and Vilavancode taluks.
 The capacity augmentation works will result in  Total 58 unique products were tagged GI in Tamil
additional freight traffic of magnitude 200 MTPA Nadu included Matti Banana.
(Million Tonnes Per Annum)  Matti Banana is usually 2.5 to 3 cm long and looks
 The projects are result of PM-Gati Shakti like the mouth of crocodile, so it also known as
National Plan for Multi-Model connectivity. crocodile finger Banana.
Important Outlook of this Project  The Matti’s finders exhibit a district wind-blown
 The projects include doubling of the existing line appearance, as traditional marriages in the region
between Gorakhpur-cantt-Valmiki Nagar, the feel incomplete without incorporating this
son Nagar Andal Multitracking project, third line banana variety.
between Nergundi-Barang and Khurda Road- As an Unique Gesture
Vizianagaram and doubling of line between  There as six known types of the Matti Banana
Mudkhed-Medchal and Mahbubnagar-Dhone, and they are indigenous to Kanyakumari, where
doubling of existing line between Guntur- it thrives in the unique climate and soil.
October, 2023 (29) CURRENT DRISHTI
 It finds its place in the grand feast, often mixed Conclusion
with payasam, a sweet dish, adding to the  The combination of GIDH and the ABDM
festivities and cultural rituals. shows that India is committed to using digital
health to improve health outcomes. These
About GI
initiatives have the potential to make a real
 In India, the registration of Geographical
difference in the lives of millions of people in
Indications falls under the jurisdiction of the India and they could also serve as a model for
geographical indications of goods (Registration other countries.
and Protection) Act, 1999.
 This legislation became effective in September, Cinematograph Amendment
2003. Bill, 2023
 First product (in India) to receive GI tag was
Darjeeling Tea in 2004-05. T h e U n i o n C a b i n e t a p p r ove d t h e
Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023.
Conclusion  To amend the Cinematography Act, 1952.
 The Matti Banana, native to the Kanyakumari  Proposed by the Ministry of Information and
district in Tamil Nadu, is a distinctive and Broadcasting.
cherished variety due to its nipple like appearance,  The bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on
windblown growth pattern, sweet, fragrance and July 20, 2023.
honey like taste.  It was passed after discussion on July 27, 2023.

Global Initiative of WHO Aims and Proposals

 It has provisions for harsher penal provisions for
The Global Initiative on Digital Health film piracy.
(GIDH) was launched by WHO and G20 India  It introduced new sub-age categories for films.
presidency on August 19, 2023, at the Health  To bring about uniformity in the categorisation
Minister’s meeting of the G20 Summit in Gandhi of films and content across platforms.
Nagar, Gujarat.  CBFC certificates will be perpetual rather than
 GIDH is a WHO managed network and platform 10 years.
to support the implementation of the Global  It will be aligned with the Supreme Court
strategy on Digital Health 2020-2025. judgments.
 It will focus on four key areas :  Only unrestricted public exhibition category films
 Developing clear priority driven investment can be shown on television.
plans for digital health transformation.  It includes strict punishment of minimum 3
 Improving reporting and transparency of months imprisonment, extended up to 3 years.
digital health resources.  Fine of 3 lakhs which can be extended upto 5%
 Facilitating knowledge exchange and of the audited gross production cost.
collaboration across regions and countries.  It emphasizes the autonomy of the Central Boar
 Supporting whole of the government of Film Certification (CBFC).
approached for digital health governance  The government may no longer have revisional
in countries. powers over the CBFC’s decisions, based on the
India and its Progress Supreme Court’s judgment.
 India has also made significant progress in digital New Sub-age categories for film Classifica-
health. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission tion under UA Category
(ABDM) launched in 2021, is a national initiative  It will classify films on the basis of age group
to create a digital health infrastructure that will instead of rating them. It will be split into three
connect all health facilities in India. distinct categories.
CURRENT DRISHTI (30) October, 2023
 UA (unrestricted public exhibition subject to About ULLAS : Nav Bharat Saksharta
parental guidance for children) Karyakram
 Added new categories.  The ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning
 UA – 7+ for All in Society) is a transformative initiative
 UA – 18+ launched by the Indian Government.
 UA – 16+  To promote lifelong learning and bridge the gaps
in basic literacy and critical life among citizens
The Cinematograph Act, 1952 aged 15 and above who lost on the opportunity
 Enacted by the parliament to ensure that films are to go to school.
shown in accordance with the limits of tolerance  To empower individuals with essential knowledge
of society. and skills for personal and national development.
 It established the Central Board of Film  The app serves as a digital gateway to diverse
Certification (CBFC or the censor board) to learning resources through the DIKSHA portal
certify films. of NCERT.
 The Board scrutinizes the films following the Key Highlights of ULLAS
procedure laid down under the Act.  It will facts on promoting functional literacy
 The Board can either reject or grant the vocational skills and many important life skills.
certificate, valid for ten years.  Lifelong Learning Focus
 The Act authorizes the police to perform search  Emphasizes continuous learning throughout
and seizure actions if the film is being exhibited life
in contravention of any of the provisions of the  Fosters a culture of knowledge sharing and
Act. personal development.
 Digital and Financial Literacy
Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha  equip participants with digital literacy skills.
Samagam (ABSS) and ULLAS   promotes financial awareness and
empowerment.
Initiative
 Critical Life Skills
The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra  impart important like skills such as legal
Modi inaugurated two day Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha literacy and digital literacy.
Samagam, 2023 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati  enhances citizenship and empowerment.
Maidan, New Delhi July 29-30, 2023.  Incentives for Student Volunteers
 Additionally the Union Minister of Education  provides credits in school/university for

launched the logo, slogan – Jan Jan Sakshar and student volunteers.
Mobile application The “ULLAS” : Nav Bharat  offers appreciation through certificates,

Saksharta Karyakram. letters, and felicitations.

 The new logo and slogan, “ULLAS : Nav Bharat
Key Highlights of ABSS Saksharta Karyakram”
 The PM released the first installment of funds  It reflect the enthusiasm and vigour of
under the PM SHRI Scheme. the campaign across every corner of the
 To support the establishment of schools country.
that nurture engaged, productive and  To be empowering citizens with the power
contributing citizens. of education and igniting the flame of
 He also released education and skill curriculum curiosity and learning in every individual
books translated into 12 Indian languages. making “Jan Jan Sakshar”.
October, 2023 (31) CURRENT DRISHTI
 What is Alternate Dispute Resolution
Nari Adalats (ADR)?
 The Indian government is launching a unique  It is the process by which disputes between the
initiative to establish women courts (known as parties are settled or brought to an amicable
Nari Adalats) at the village level as an alternative result without the intervention of Judicial
dispute resolution forum for issues such as Institution and without any trial.
domestic violence and property rights.  ADR offers to resolve all types of matters
 The pilot project will start in 50 villages each including civil, commercial, industrial and family
in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir in August, etc., where people are not able to start any type
2023 and will later be expanded to the rest of of negotiation and reach a settlement.
the country.  Generally, ADR uses a neutral third party who
About the Nari Adalats helps the parties to communicate, discuss the
 The Nari Adalat of each village would have 7-9 differences and resolve the dispute.
members half of which would be the elected  It is a mechanism of dispute resolution
members of the gram panchayat and the other that is non-adversarial - working together
half women with social standing like teachers, cooperatively to reach the best resolution for
doctors and social workers – who would be everyone. It can be instrumental in reducing
nominated by the villagers. the burden of litigation on courts.
 The head of Nari Adalat called the Mukhya Types of ADR
Nyaya Sakhi [chief legal friend] will be chosen  Arbitration: The dispute is submitted to an
among the Nyay Sakhis. arbitral tribunal which makes a decision (an
 The tenure of the head will be generally six “award”) on the dispute that is mostly binding
months after which a new one will be selected. on the parties.
 The courts aim to address individual cases, raise  Conciliation: A non-binding procedure in
awareness about social schemes, and provide which an impartial third party, the conciliator,
accessible and affordable justice through assists the parties to a dispute in reaching a
alternate dispute resolution, counseling, and mutually satisfactory agreed settlement of the
grievance redressal although they does not hold dispute.
any legal status.  Mediation:
 The initiative is part of the Sambal sub-scheme   In mediation, an impartial person called a
of Mission Shakti (Ministry of Women and Child “Mediator” helps the parties try to reach
Development), which focuses on strengthening a mutually acceptable resolution of the
women’s safety, security, and empowerment. dispute.
 The scheme draws inspiration from the   The mediator does not decide the dispute
Parivarik Mahila Lok Adalats, which were run but helps the parties communicate so
by the National Commission for Women until they can try to settle the dispute themselves.
2014-15 and addressed family and matrimonial  Negotiation: A non-binding procedure in
disputes. which discussions between the parties are
 It is Collaboration between the Ministry of initiated without the intervention of any third
Women and Child Development, Ministry of party with the object of arriving at a negotiated
Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Rural Development settlement to the dispute.
and Common Service Centers operated by  Lok Adalat: An interesting feature of the
the Ministry of Electronics and Information Indian legal system is the existence of voluntary
Technology. agencies called Lok Adalats (Peoples’ Courts).
CURRENT DRISHTI (32) October, 2023
  Easing Port Restrictions: Measures to facilitate
14th Joint Group of Customs
trade and commerce included discussions on
Meeting Between India and reducing port restrictions.
Bangladesh  Development of Road and Rail
Infrastructure: The meeting focused on
The 14th Joint Group of Customs (JGC)
enhancing road and rail infrastructure to
meeting between India and Bangladesh was
convened recently, in New Delhi. promote connectivity.
 Pre-Arrival Exchange of Customs Data:
About the meeting
Both nations explored the possibility of
 Meeting: Joint group of customs meeting
exchanging customs data before the arrival of
 Edition: 14th
 Held between: India and Bangladesh goods.
 Held on: 21st and 22nd August, 2023  Bilateral Agreement on Customs
 Held at: New Delhi Cooperation: Discussions were initiated
 The meeting was co-chaired by Member regarding a bilateral agreement to enhance
(Customs), Central Board of Indirect Taxes customs cooperation.
and Customs, India and Member (Customs:  India expressed its gratitude to Bangladesh
Audit, Modernization and International Trade), for successfully conducting trial runs and
National Board of Revenue, Bangladesh. issuing notifications for operationalizing the
Objective Agreement on Use of Chattogram and
 The India-Bangladesh Joint Group of Customs Mongla Ports (ACMP), as previously agreed
meetings are held on an annual basis to discuss upon in the 13th JGC meeting.
issues relating to customs cooperation and  Additionally, talks were initiated to explore
cross-border trade facilitation. electronic connectivity for the transit
 These meetings play a vital role in enhancing modules of ACMP.
connectivity and developing trade infrastructure
for smooth customs clearance at land borders. India-Bangladesh Relations
 There are 62 Land Customs Stations (which  Historical Diplomatic Recognition
include land border crossing points, railway India was the first country to formally
 
stations and river banks/ports) along the India- recognize Bangladesh as an independent
Bangladesh Border in the States of West Bengal, state in December 1971, immediately
Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram. establishing diplomatic relations.
Key Outcomes  Civilisational and Geopolitical Ties:
 Opening of New Land Customs Stations:   The India-Bangladesh relationship is
Discussions were held regarding the rooted in shared civilisational, cultural,
establishment of new land customs stations. social, and economic links.
October, 2023 (33) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Bangladesh’s strategic location as India’s
   Tourism:
eastern neighbor holds significant According to the India Tourism Statistics
 
geopolitical importance. Report 2022, Bangladesh was the second-
  It provides India with access to the Bay of largest tourist-generating market for India
Bengal and serves as a crucial trade and
in 2021.
connectivity route to Southeast Asia.
This summary highlights the multifaceted
 
 Economic Cooperation:
  Bangladesh is India’s largest trading partner nature of India-Bangladesh relations,
in South Asia, with bilateral trade reaching spanning economic, defense, energy, and
USD 8 billion in April-November 2022. regional cooperation sectors.
  Efforts have been made to streamline
20th ASEAN-India Economic
cargo movement, including the export of
cargo from India to Bangladesh via inland Ministers’ Meeting
waterways.
Recently, the 20th ASEAN-India Economic
  Duty-free quota-free access to Bangladesh
Ministers’ meeting was held in Semarang,
for Indian goods under SAFTA (South
Indonesia.
Asian Free Trade Area) has been in effect
since 2011. About the meeting
  A new trade transaction in rupees was  Held on: 21st August 2023
launched in July 2023, aiming to reduce  Held at: Semarang, Indonesia
reliance on the US dollar and strengthen  Co-chairs: Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Additional
regional trade. Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry
 Defence Collaboration: of Commerce and Industry, GoI and Dr.
  India and Bangladesh share a 4096.7 km- Zulkifli Hasan, Minister of Trade, Indonesia
long land boundary, the longest among
India’s neighbors. Key Points
  Multiple Indian states, including Assam,  The main agenda of this year’s meeting was the
West Bengal, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and timely review of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods
Tripura, share borders with Bangladesh. Agreement (AITIGA) which was signed in
  Joint military exercises, such as Army 2009.
(Exercise Sampriti) and Navy (Exercise  The initiation of the AITIGA review addresses
Bongosagar), bolster defense cooperation. a longstanding demand from Indian businesses
 Energy and Connectivity: and promises to make the Free Trade
  The India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline Agreement (FTA) more conducive to trade
links Siliguri in West Bengal to Parbatipur in and mutually beneficial.
Dinajpur district, transporting one million
 A quarterly schedule of negotiations was agreed
Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) of
upon, with the aim of concluding the AITIGA
High-Speed Diesel to Bangladesh.
review by 2025.
  Cross-border infrastructure projects like
the Akhaura-Agartala rail link and Maitri  Ministers or their representatives from all the
Setu enhance connectivity. 10 ASEAN countries viz. Brunei, Cambodia,
 Multilateral Engagement: Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar,
  Both nations actively participate in regional Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam
cooperation through forums like SAARC, participated in the meeting.
BIMSTEC, and the Indian Ocean Rim  Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste also
Association (IORA). joined the Meeting as an observer.
CURRENT DRISHTI (34) October, 2023
 ASEAN-India Business Council (AIBC):  It will focus on doubling trade, enhancing
The ministers acknowledged AIBC’s endeavors defence and security collaboration, and
throughout 2023, including the 5th ASEAN- addressing shared challenges.
India Business Summit held in Kuala Lumpur  Both countries also discussed concluding an
in March, 2023. agreement on migration mobility to smoothen
movement of skilled population of both sides
 AIBC is an organization formed by the
Governments of ASEAN and India in soon.
2005 with the aim to foster closer business  Both countries also pledged their support to
linkages and provide an industry the objective of maintaining maritime security,
perspective to the broadening and deepening to our commitment to International Law and to
of economic linkages between ASEAN and the Convention on the Law of the Sea.
India.  On this occasion, the Greek President Katerina
Sakellaropoulou conferred the Prime Minister
Association of Southeast Asian Nations of India with “The Grand Cross of the Order
(ASEAN) of Honour” which is second highest civilian
 It is a regional grouping that promotes honour in Greece, after the Grand Cross of the
economic, political, and security cooperation. Order of the Redeemer.
 It was established in August 1967 in Bangkok,  PM Modi also paid tribute at the ‘Tomb of
Thailand with the signing of the ASEAN Unknown Soldier’ in Athens.
Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the
What is the Tomb of the Unknown
founding members of ASEAN, namely Soldier?
Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and  The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a war
Thailand. memorial located in Syntagma Square in
 Its chairmanship rotates annually, based on the Athens, Greece.
alphabetical order of the English names of  It is dedicated to Greek soldiers who lost their
Member States. lives in various wars.
 Members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos,  The tomb serves as a symbol of remembrance
Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, and honour for the sacrifices made by
Thailand and Vietnam. anonymous soldiers.
 It was sculpted between 1930 and 1932 by
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to
sculptor Fokion Rok.
Greece
India-Greece Relations: Historical and
Recently PM Modi visited Greece after
Contemporary Overview
attending 15th BRICS summit in South Africa.
 Historical Linkages: India’s connections
About the Visit with Greece date back over 2500 years, with
 Who Visited: PM Narendra Modi interactions during Alexander the Great’s
 Where: Greece campaign and diplomatic, trade, and cultural
 Date: 25 August 2023 exchanges mentioned in Ashoka’s edicts.
 Special: first visit by an Indian premier in 40 Chanakya’s writings noted Yavan (Greek)
years ambassadors in Indian courts, and Gandhara art
Key Outcome reflects Indian-Greek influences.
 India and Greece have decided to upgrade their  Commercial Relations: Bilateral trade in
relationship to a strategic partnership. 2022-23 reached USD 2 billion. India exports
October, 2023 (35) CURRENT DRISHTI
 aluminum, organic chemicals, fish, and iron  Religion: Predominantly Greek Orthodox
and steel, while Greece exports mineral fuels, Christianity.
mineral oils, sulphur, and aluminum foil to  UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Greece
India. India was the ‘Honoured Country’ at the is home to numerous UNESCO-listed sites,
84th Thessaloniki International Fair in 2019. including the Acropolis of Athens, Delphi,
 Political Relations: Diplomatic ties were and Meteora.
established in May 1950, with embassies in  Geography: Diverse landscape with
Delhi and Athens. India and Greece support mountains, islands, and a long coastline along
each other on issues like Kashmir and Cyprus. the Mediterranean Sea.
Greece supports India’s bid for a permanent  EU Member: Greece has been a member of
seat on the UN Security Council. the European Union (EU) since 1981.
 Defence Relations: Defence cooperation  Euro Zone Member: It also uses the Euro
began in 1998, covering military training, joint as its official currency.
exercises, and defence industry collaboration.
The Indian Air Force participated in EXERCISE India and New Zealand sign
INIOCHOS-23. MoU to boost cooperation in
 Cultural Ties: Greek scholars like Dimitrios
Civil Aviation
Galanos and Prof. Nicholas Kazanas have
contributed to Indian studies. A “Dimitrios Recently the Government of India and
Galanos” Chair for Hellenic Studies exists the Government of New Zealand have signed a
at Jawaharlal Nehru University. India offers Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost
scholarships for Greek students, and Prof. cooperation in civil aviation.
Nicholas Kazanas received the Padma Shri About the MoU
award in 2021.  Signed on: August 29, 2023
 Signed between: Government of India and
Greece : Key facts
New Zealand government
 Location: Southern Europe, on the Balkan
 Signed for: Cooperation in civil aviation
Peninsula. It is bordered by Albania, North
Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. Key Points
 An Air Services Agreement was signed between
 Capital: Athens.
New Zealand and India at Auckland on 1 May
 Official Language: Greek.
2016. Current MoU was signed to further the
 Government: Parliamentary Republic.
cooperation.
 Currency: Euro (EUR).
 The cooperation in civil aviation
 History: Known for its ancient civilization,
includes scheduling new routes, codeshare
including Athens and Sparta. Part of the
services, traffic rights, and capacity entitlement.
Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire  The designated airline(s) of India may operate
before gaining independence in the 19th any number of services with any type of aircraft
century. with third and fourth freedom traffic rights to/
 Major Industries: Tourism, shipping, from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and
agriculture, manufacturing. three more points in New Zealand to be named
 Major Exports: Petroleum products, by the Government of India.
aluminum, medicaments, fruits, and nuts.  The designated airline(s) of New Zealand may
 Major Imports: Mineral fuels, machinery, operate any number of services with any type
vehicles, electrical equipment. of aircraft, with third and fourth freedom
CURRENT DRISHTI (36) October, 2023
 traffic rights to/from six points in India, namely
New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, 15th BRICS Summit
Hyderabad, and Kolkata. The 15th BRICS summit was hosted by South
Freedom Traffic Rights Africa in Johannesburg on 22-24 August 2023.
 International agreements or treaties grant About the Summit
airlines traffic rights.  Hosted by: South Africa
 These rights define airline operations between  Hosted at: Johannesburg, South Africa
countries, including flight numbers, routes,  Hosted on: August 22-24, 2023
and destinations.  Edition: 15th
 There are different levels or “freedoms” of
 Theme: BRICS and Africa: Partnership
traffic rights, ranging from the first freedom
for Mutually Accelerated Growth,
(the right to overfly a country without landing)
Sustainable Development and Inclusive
to the ninth freedom (cabotage, which allows
Multilateralism
foreign airlines to operate domestic flights
within another country). Background
 Bilateral or multilateral air service agreements  BRICS is an acronym for the grouping of
between nations determine these rights. the world’s leading emerging economies,
namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and
5th India-Bangladesh Annual South Africa.
Defence Dialogue  In 2001, the British Economist Jim
O’Neill coined the term BRIC to describe the
Recently India and Bangladesh held the fifth
four emerging economies of Brazil, Russia,
Annual Defence Dialogue.
India, and China.
About the Defence Dialogue  The grouping was formalized during the first
 Held between: India and Bangladesh’s Defence
meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers in 2006.
Representatives
 South Africa was invited to join BRIC in
 Held on: August 28, 2023
December 2010, after which the group adopted
 Held at: Dhaka, Bangladesh
 Edition: 5th
the acronym BRICS.
 The chairmanship of the forum is rotated
Key Outcomes
annually among the members, in accordance
 During the meeting, the ongoing defence
with the acronym B-R-I-C-S.
cooperation activities between the two countries
were reviewed . Key Points
 Both sides agreed to increase the complexity of  BRICS marked its 15th summit by expanding
ongoing bilateral defence exercises. its membership from five to eleven countries,
India –Bangladesh Defence Cooperations Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Ethiopia,
 India and Bangladesh share 4096.7 km. of and Argentina joined.
border; the longest land boundary that India  The Indian PM Narendra Modi proposed
shares with any of its neighbors. to establish a BRICS space exploration
 Assam, West Bengal, Mizoram, Meghalaya, consortium to advance cooperation in the field
and Tripura share borders with Bangladesh. of space technology and research.
 The two also conduct Joint Exercises - Army  India called for BRICS collaboration under the
(Exercise Sampriti) and Navy (Exercise International Big Cat Alliance in protecting the
Bongosagar) endangered big cats that live in their countries.
October, 2023 (37) CURRENT DRISHTI
 PM Modi also offered Indian Digital Public  Signed between: Indian Pharmacopoeia
Infrastructure - the Indian stack to BRICS Commission (IPC), Ministry of Health & Family
partners. Welfare, Government of India and Ministry
 During the summit Johannesburg II Declaration of Health, Government of the Republic of
was released by the members. Suriname
 Signed on: June 4, 2023
BRICS
Key Points
 BRICS contributes 41% of the global
 The MoU solidifies the acceptance of the IP
population, 24% of the global GDP and
as a comprehensive book of standards for
16 % of the global trade.
medicines in Suriname.
 Its major initiative includes:-  The requirement for duplicate testing of
 New Development Bank: It was discussed medicines within Suriname is eliminated through
in the 2012 Summit (4th BRICS Summit – the acceptance of the Certificate of Analysis
New Delhi) and established in 2015 and is issued by Indian Manufacturers adhering to the
headquartered in Shanghai, China. IP standards.
 Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA):  This streamlining reduces redundancy, saving
treaty to create CRA was signed in Fortaleza, time and resources.
Brazil on July 15, 2014 and it serve as defence  The MoU facilitates access to IP Reference
against global liquidity pressure on BRICS Substances (IPRS) and Impurity standards from
economies. the IPC at reasonable costs.
 BRICS Comprehensive Convention on  This provision benefits Suriname by enhancing
International Terrorism: Treaty to Combat all its quality control analysis procedures.
Terror Finance Networks What is the Indian Phar macopoeia
 BRICS Initiative on Denial of Safe Haven to Commission (IPC)?
Corruption  The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission
 BRICS Framework for Consumer Protection (IPC) operates under the Ministry of Health
in E-commerce and Family Welfare.
 BRICS Think Tank Network for Finance  IPC establishes and updates drug standards in
India, focusing on prevalent diseases.
MoU between India and  It publishes the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP)
Suriname in the field of the as the official document for setting quality
standards.
regulation of medicines  IPC promotes the rational use of generic
On August 16, 2023 it was announced medicines through the National Formulary
that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of India.
was signed on in June, 2023 between the Indian  IP defines criteria for drug quality, purity, and
Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), Ministry of strength for human and animal health.
Health & Family Welfare, Government of India  IPC supplies IP Reference Substances (IPRS)
and Ministry of Health, Government of the for identifying and assessing the purity of test
Republic of Suriname for Recognition of Indian articles.
Pharmacopoeia (IP) in Suriname. Benefits of International recognition of the
About the MoU Indian pharmacopoeia Standards
 MoU: for Recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia  It would boost the export of Indian
(IP) in Suriname pharmaceutical products to these countries as it
CURRENT DRISHTI (38) October, 2023
 would remove double regulation, duplication in  The legitimacy of the McMahon Line,
testing and post importation checks, granting a established in the 1914 Simla Convention, is
competitive advantage to Indian drug exporters. contested by China.
 Importing countries would access quality Indian  Line of Actual Control (LAC) Conflict:
medical products affordably.   Differences over the LAC form the core
 Manufacturers in these nations could better of Chinese assertions on the disputed land.
develop generic medicines, ensuring their   Incursions into Indian territory stem from
citizens’ access to cost-effective treatment. this disagreement.
 Access to reference and impurity standards
 Unilateral Territory Claim:
at reasonable costs would aid manufacturers’
  China includes around 90,000 sq km of
development efforts.
Arunachal Pradesh in its own territory
 The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) is officially
on maps, designating it as “Zangnan” or
recognized by five (5) countries: Afghanistan,
“South Tibet.”
Ghana, Nepal, Mauritius and the Republic of
Suriname.   Regular release of Chinese place names and
reaffirmation of its one-sided territorial
Conclusion
claim.
 Convergence in the regulatory practices could
help in increasing export of medicines from India Challenge to Indian Sovereignty:
and consequentially help in better employment  Stapled Visas as Tools:
opportunities for educated professionals in the China issues stapled visas to residents
 
Pharmaceutical sector. of Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and
Kashmir.
China’s Stapled Visas
 Objective is to undermine India’s
Recently government of India lodged a strong sovereignty in these regions.
protest with Chinese government over their issue  Undermining India’s Control:
of stapled visas to athletes of Arunachal Pradesh  China’s actions are perceived as efforts
who were scheduled to visit China for the World to erode India’s territorial control and
University Games in Chengdu on July 27 , 2023. authority.
What is Stapled Visa  Implicit challenge to India’s governance
 A stapled visa refers to an unstamped document over parts of its recognized territory.
fastened to a passport using staples or a pin,
differing from conventional visas that receive a Kampala Declaration
direct stamp on the passport itself.  A total of 48 African countries have now
 These stapled visas are intentionally employed
agreed to adopt the Kampala Ministerial
in China’s territorial disagreement with India
Declaration on Migration, Environment and
concerning Arunachal Pradesh.
 Notably, China regards these stapled visas
Climate Change (KDMECC) to address the
as valid instruments for travel, while India nexus of human mobility and climate change in
adamantly rejects their authenticity and validity. the continent.
 The continental expansion of the KDMECC
Background for Stapled Visas Issuance by
China was discussed at a three-day Conference of
 Sovereignty Dispute: States that began August 23, 2023.
 China challenges India’s claim to sovereignty  It was co-hosted by the Governments of
over Arunachal Pradesh. Kenya and Uganda with support from the
October, 2023 (39) CURRENT DRISHTI
 International Organization for Migration (IOM) 3. Inclusivity: Prioritizing the voices of
and the United Nations Framework Convention vulnerable groups, including youth, women,
on Climate Change (UNFCCC). and those in disadvantaged situations, to
 It also enabled the African States to develop a ensure their needs and concerns are central
common position ahead of the Africa Climate to the response.
Summit and the Conference of Parties (COP
28). News in Shorts
  Africa is one of the world’s most vulnerable
Russia launches e-visa facility for Indians
continents to the impacts of climate
change.  Russia has launched an e-visa facility for Indians
  Climate change, which leads to an increased from August 1.
frequency and intensity of extreme weather  This will allow-travelers from India to the
events, has a direct impact on migration. country to surpass the hassles of obtaining a
  According to the Internal Displacement regular visa.
Monitoring Centre, over 7.5 million people  The e-visa furnished is valid for 60 days from
faced internal displacement due to disasters the date of issue and allows tourists to stay on
in the past year alone. the territory of Russia for 16 days.
 The e-visa facility, also available for travellers
KDMECC
from 54 other countries, does not require a visit
 KDMECC was originally signed and agreed
to consulates or embassies.
upon by 15 African states in Kampala, Uganda
in July 2022. Typhoon Lan
 The KDMECC-AFRICA is expected to be  Typhoon Lan made landfall in Japan, August
signed by Member States during the Africa 15, bringing heavy rain and strong winds.
Climate Summit in Nairobi on September 4,  Its arrival comes on the heels of Typhoon
2023. Khanun, which ravaged the south of Japan
 The Declaration is the first comprehensive, earlier this month before moving toward the
action-oriented framework led by Member Korean Peninsula.
States to address climate-induced mobility in a
Anwarul Haq Kakar
practical and effective manner.
 He was sworn in as Pakistan’s 8th interim
Objectives of KDMECC:
Prime Minister on 21st August, making him the
 The KDMECC aims to address the challenges
country’s youngest individual to assume this
associated with climate-induced migration
role.
through several key objectives:
 Pakistan is supposed to hold national elections
1. Comprehensive Framework: Providing
within three months as the National Assembly
member states with a comprehensive
has been dissolved.
framework to develop and implement
policies and strategies addressing climate- Srettha Thavisin
induced migration.  He has become the Thailand’s prime minister
2.  Leveraging Migration for amidst a political deadlock following recent
Development: Encouraging the elections.
integration of migration into sustainable  Thavisin’s rise marks an alignment between
development strategies, ensuring it benefits pro-military factions and the conservative
both migrants and host communities. establishment.
CURRENT DRISHTI (40) October, 2023
   nce the orb’s iris scan verifies the person
O
WorldCoin is a real human, it creates a World ID for
Recently, a new cryptocurrency project called them.
WorldCoin, from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has  The project has three aspects: a World ID or
claimed over 2 million sign-ups across the world a digital identity for “proving an individual’s
around a week . OpenAI is the company behind unique personhood,” a Worldcoin token (WLD)
the AI chatbot ChatGPT. that is its cryptocurrency, and a World App
About WorldCoin that enables “payment, purchases and transfers
 Launched on- July 24, 2023 globally using digital assets and traditional
 Launched by- Sam Altman currencies.
What is WorldCoin? PM SVANIDHI SCHEME
 Worldcoin is an initiative to create a digital
network in which everyone can claim some kind Recently, The Union Housing and Urban
of stake, and join the digital economy. Affairs Ministry has set a new target for its loan
 Using a device called “Orb,” Worldcoin scheme for street vendors — 63 lakh new loans
volunteers known as ‘Orb operators’ scan a till December 2023.
person’s iris pattern to collect their biometric About Prime Minister Street Vendor’s Atma
data and help them get a World ID through the Nirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme
World app.  Launched on – June 01, 2020
  With the app, scanned participants can  Launched by – Ministry of Housing and
collect a cryptocurrency called Worldcoin Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
[WLD] at regular intervals or make  Type – central sector scheme
transactions with their World ID where  Scheme for – Street vendors/ hawkers vending
possible. in urban areas, as on or before March 24, 2020.
 This process is called “proof of personhood” Objectives
and makes sure that people do not sign  The Scheme has the following objectives :
themselves up multiple times in exchange for   Facilitate collateral free working capital
crypto. loan up to Rs. 10,000, of 1 year tenure,
 Sam Altman previously introduced the beta with enhanced loan of Rs. 20,000 and Rs.
version of Worldcoin in October 2021. 50,000 in the second and third trances
How does Worldcoin work? respectively, on repayment of earlier loans.
  Incentivize regular repayment, through
 WorldCoin wants to offer users an account that
only “real humans” can get, through what it interest subsidy @ 7% per annum; and
 Reward digital transactions, by way of cash
calls a “World ID”.
 For this, a customer has to sign up and do an back up to Rs. 1,200 per year.
in-person eye scan at particular locations, where New Targets
their irises would be scanned through a ball-like  In July 2023, Ministry of Housing and Urban
object called an ‘orb’. Affairs has set the new targets: 60,99,000
October, 2023 (41) CURRENT DRISHTI
 first-term loans (up to Rs 10,000 each) to  The scheme will cover all disputes with Central
beneficiaries in big states, 34,990 such loans in government agencies, including autonomous
small states and UTs, and 1,66,200 loans in hill bodies, public sector banks and financial
states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand institutions, central public sector firms, union
and the Northeast. territories, and the National Capital Territory
 Ministry also set the target of 22.63 lakh of Delhi, along with their respective agencies.
beneficiaries for second-term loans, which are  Under the scheme, for Court Awards passed
up to Rs 20,000 each and will be given to those on or before 30.04.2023 the settlement amount
who have paid off the first loans, and 2.93 lakh offered to the Contractor will be up to 85% of
for third-term loans — up to Rs 50,000 given to
the net amount awarded/ upheld by the court.
those who have paid the second.
 For Arbitral Awards passed on or before
 While the Cabinet extended the scheme’s
31.01.2023, the settlement amount offered is up
lending period until December 2024 , these
to 65% of the net amount awarded.
targets are “till December 2023”.
 Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has
SETTING FRESH MARKS developed a dedicated web-page for
39,12,518 implementation of this scheme.
49,76,900
Target of all loans
untill March, 2023 PM Vishwakarma Scheme
63,00,190 Recently, the Cabinet Committee on
New target of 1st term Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister of
loans until Dec 2023 11,47,328
India has approved a new Central Sector Scheme
22,63,390
New target of 2nd term “PM Vishwakarma”
loans until Dec 2023
93,523 About PM Vishwakarma Scheme
2,93,070  Announced on- August 15, 2023
New target of 3rd term 1st 2nd 3rd
loans until Dec 2023 term term term  Approved on- August 16, 2023
Source : PM SVANidhi website, Ministry of Housing  Approved by- Cabinet Committee on
and Urban Affairs (Loans Disbursed so far) Economic Affairs
 Scheme type- Central Sector Scheme
Vivad se Vishwas – II  Financial outlay - Rs. 13,000 crore
 Duration- For a period of five years (FY 2023-
Recently, the Department of Expenditure, 24 to FY 2027-28)
Ministry of Finance, has launched the scheme,
“Vivad se Vishwas II – (Contractual Disputes), to Objectives
effectively settle the pending contractual disputes  The scheme aims to strengthen and nurture
of government and government undertakings. The the Guru-Shishya parampara or family-based
scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2023- practice of traditional skills by artisans and
24 by the Union Finance Minister. craftspeople working with their hands and tools.
 Launched on- August 2, 2023  The scheme also aims at improving the quality,
 Launched by- the Department of Expenditure, as well as the reach of products and services of
Ministry of Finance artisans and craftspeople.
 Scheme for- To settle contractual disputes of  It also aims to ensure that the Vishwakarmas
government and government undertakings, wherein are integrated with the domestic and global
arbitral award is under challenge in a court value chains.
Key Highlights Key Highlights
 The scheme will apply to all domestic contractual  Under PM Vishwakarma scheme, the artisans
disputes where one of the parties is either and craftspeople will be provided recognition
the Government of India or an organisation through PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID
working under its control. card.
CURRENT DRISHTI (42) October, 2023
  It will provide Credit Support up to Rs.1  At present, the following seven banks are available
lakh (First Tranche) and Rs.2 lakh (Second on the portal—(1) State Bank of India, (2) Central
Tranche) with a concessional interest rate Bank of India, (3) Citi Bank, (4) DBS Bank,
of 5%. (5) Dhanlaxmi Bank, (6) Punjab National Bank,
 The Scheme will further provide Skill (7) South Indian Bank
Upgradation, Toolkit Incentive, Incentive for  As per RBI, access to unclaimed deposit details
Digital Transactions and Marketing Support. for more banks will be phased in by October 15,
 The scheme will provide support to artisans and 2023.
craftspeople of rural and urban areas across
India. Fortune Global 500
 Eighteen traditional trades will be covered in Recently, Fortune Global 500 companies list
the first instance under PM Vishwakarma. are released by Fortune magazine. As per magazine,
  These trades include (i) Carpenter Walmart remains No. 1 for the 10th consecutive
(Suthar) (ii) Boat Maker (iii) Armourer
year, while Saudi Aramco, which grew its revenues
(iv) Blacksmith (Lohar) (v) Hammer
by 51%, claims the No. 2 spot (up from No. 6 last
and Tool Kit Maker (vi) Locksmith (vii)
year).
Goldsmith (Sonar) (viii) Potter (Kumhaar)
(ix) Sculptor (Moortikar, stone carver), About Fortune Global 500
Stone breaker (x) Cobbler(Charmkar)/  Released in- August 2023
Shoesmith/Footwear artisan (xi) Mason  Released by- Fortune Magazine
(Rajmistri) (xii) Basket/Mat/Broom
Methodology
Maker/Coir Weaver (xiii) Doll & Toy
 Companies are ranked by total revenues for
Maker (Traditional) (xiv) Barber (Naai)
their respective fiscal years ended on or before
(xv) Garland maker (Malakaar) (xvi)
Washerman (Dhobi) (xvii) Tailor (Darzi) March 31, 2023.
and (xviii) Fishing Net Maker. Key Highlights
 Walmart remains No. 1 for the 10th consecutive
RBI’s UDGAM Portal year, while Saudi Aramco, which grew its
In August 2023, the Reserve Bank of India revenues by 51%, claims the No. 2 spot (up
launched a centralised web portal called UDGAM from No. 6 last year).
(Unclaimed Deposits - Gateway to Access  The aggregate revenues of Fortune Global 500
inforMation) for individuals to search such deposits companies are $41 trillion.
across multiple banks in one place.  The aggregate revenues of Fortune Global 500
What are unclaimed deposits companies in the U.S. ($13 trillion) exceeded
 As per RBI, balances in savings or current that of Greater China.
accounts which are not operated for ten years, Top 5 Fortune Global 500 Companies
or term deposits not claimed within ten years Company
from the date of maturity are classified as 1. Walmart
unclaimed deposits. 2. Saudi Aramco
 The platform will aid users to identify their 3. State Grid
unclaimed deposit accounts and enable them to 4. Amazon
either claim the same or make them operational 5. China National Petroleum
at their respective banks.
 Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt. Ltd. Walmart
(ReBIT), Indian Financial Technology & Allied  With $611.3 billion in revenue in its most recent
Services (IFTAS), and participating banks have fiscal year, Walmart tops the Fortune Global
collaborated on developing the portal. 500 for the 10th year in a row.
October, 2023 (43) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Walmart Inc. is an American multinational  The bank underlining the company’s
retail corporation that operates a chain of ‘commitment to sustainability and promoting
hypermarkets (also called supercenters), eco-friendly practices within the financial sector.
discount department stores, and grocery  The company will manufacture these debit
stores in the United States,headquartered in cards from r-PVC (recycled polyvinyl chloride)
Bentonville, Arkansas,USA. material, which it claims to be eco-friendly.
Saudi Aramco  As per bank that every batch of 50,000 cards
 It raked in about $159 billion in profits in 2022, produced would reduce carbon emissions by
the largest earnings grab among any of the firms 350 kilograms, compared to conventional PVC
in the Global 500—and the most profitable year cards in the market.
in history for a publicly traded company.  Producing these eco-friendly debit cards will
 Saudi Aramco is a state- owned oil company
also diminish petroleum consumption during
based in Saudi Arabia.
manufacturing, cutting hydrocarbon usage by
State Grid 43 per cent.
 The Chinese-government-owned power  The company further asserts that this
company, which meets about 80% of China’s
manufacturing approach will conserve 6.6
electricity needs, increases of about 15% in
million litres of water for every batch of r-PVC
both in revenue and profit in 2022.
produced.
 it is headquartered in Beijing, China.
Amazon India’s first 3D-printed post
 The e-commerce giant fell two spots on this office
year’s Global 500: Revenue growth, at 9% year
over year, was the slowest in Amazon’s history  In August 2023, Union Minister for Railways,
as a public company to date. Communications, Electronics and IT Ashwini
 Amazon swung from a hefty profit in 2021 to a Vaishnaw dedicated to the nation India’s first
$2.7 billion loss in 2022. 3D-printed post office located in Bengaluru,
 It is headquartered in Seattle, USA. Karnataka.
China National Petroleum  The post office was completed in just 43 days –
 The China National Petroleum is a state-owned two days ahead of its deadline.
fossil fuel firm and one of the largest integrated  Its construction was carried out by Larsen &
energy groups in the world. Its headquarters in Toubro Limited with technological support
Beijing, China. from IIT Madras under the guidance of
 While revenue only grew about 17% from 2021,
Professor Manu Santhanam.
profits more than doubled, jumping to almost
 Its construction was carried out using 3D
$22 billion amid a global tightening in oil supply,
concrete printing technology which is a fully
partly because of the Ukraine war.
automated building construction technology.
Airtel Payments Bank
Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar
Launched India’s 1st Eco-
Recently, the Government of India, in
Friendly Debit Card association with State Governments, has launched
 In August 2023, Airtel Payments Bank an ‘Invoice incentive Scheme’ by the name ‘Mera
announced the launch of an eco-friendly Bill Mera Adhikaar’ to encourage the culture
debit card for its customers with savings bank of customers asking for invoices/bills for all
accounts. purchases.
CURRENT DRISHTI (44) October, 2023
About Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar help build capacities of citizens to engage with
 Launched on- September 1, 2023 innovation via expert sessions and instructional
 Launched by- Government of India, in materials.
association with State Governments Key features
 Objective- The objective of the scheme is to  National Digital Nagrik Forum will focus on
bring a cultural and behavioural change in the five core themes.
general public to ‘Ask for a Bill’ as their right   First, consumer protection and online
and entitlement. safety with a core focus on efficient
Key Highlights of the Scheme grievance redressal.
 The scheme was launched as a pilot basis in  Second, the pitfalls of digital cartelisation
the States of Assam, Gujarat & Haryana and and how a level-playing field is necessary
UTs of Puducherry, Dadra Nagar Haveli and to discourage discriminatory and anti-
Daman & Diu. competitive practices in the online world.
 All B2C invoices issued by GST registered   Third, the potential of Indian digital
suppliers (registered in the States of Assam, technologies to transform retail and
Gujarat & Haryana and UTs of Puducherry, industrial trade along with boosting
Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu) to employment and investment footprint.
consumers will be eligible for the scheme.   Fourth, principles-based taxation policies
 Minimum value for invoices to be considered for productivity in sectors with high growth
for a lucky draw has been kept at Rs. 200. potential and to prevent illegal activities.
 Invoices can be uploaded on Mobile Application   Fifth, studying emerging technologies
‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar’. like Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence
 All residents of India will be eligible to to assess their impact on retail trade and
participate in this Scheme irrespective of their protecting consumer interests.
State/UT.  CAIT will involve stakeholders from the
 Maximum 25 invoices can be uploaded by an corporate and non-corporate sectors, MSMEs,
individual on App/web portal in a month to be farmers, consumer, experts and technocrats etc.
considered for lucky draw.  The National Digital Nagrik Forum will conduct
 This Pilot Scheme will run for a period of 12 awareness camps, digital and physical dialogues
months. and trainings.
 It is planning to outreach to stakeholders from
National Digital Nagrik Forum government, private sector and civil society,
including policymakers and other relevant
Recently, the Confederation of All India
stakeholders at the state-level towards realising
Traders (CAIT) announced the creation of a its objectives.
National Digital Nagrik Forum. It is an online
platform that aims to advance the rights of traders The Confederation of All India Traders
and consumers and other sections of the society (CAIT)
and shape policy to boost the digital trade economy.  The CAIT came in existence in the year 1990.
 It is an Apex Body of Trading Community of
About National Digital Nagrik Forum India at National Level.
 Launched in: August , 2023  It aims to bring glory of Indian Traders in main
 Launched by: The Confederation of All India stream of economy and nation and to create a
Traders (CAIT) business friendly environment in the Country
Objectives beside upgrading and modernising existing
 The National Digital Nagrik Forum aims to format of retail trade and development of
raise awareness about digital regulations and skills of the traders in India.

October, 2023 (45) CURRENT DRISHTI

 Limited (ONGC), the flagship national oil
Oil India Ltd. elevated as 13th company (NOC) of India.
‘Maharatna’ Company  ONGC Videsh is the first Indian Company to
produce equity oil and gas abroad.
In August , 2023, the Ministry of Finance
 ONGC Videsh’s production started in 2002-03
has elevated Oil India Limited (OIL) and ONGC
with commencement of production of Block
Videsh Limited, to Maharatna and Navratna
06.1 in Vietnam in January 2003.
categories of central public sector enterprises
(CPSEs), respectively. The new status will help the Criteria for grant of Maharatna status to
companies take decisions on large investments on CPSEs
their own, both within India and abroad.  The CPSEs meeting the following criteria are
eligible to be considered for grant of Maharatna
About Oil India Limited (OIL)
status.
 Oil India Limited (OIL) is a fully integrated
 Having Navratna status.
Exploration & Production company in the
  Listed on Indian stock exchange with
upstream sector, with origin dating back to the
minimum prescribed public shareholding
glorious year (1889) of oil discovery in India.
under SEBI regulation.s
 A Maharatna Company, OIL is a state-owned
 An average annual turnover of more than
enterprise of the Government of India, under
Rs. 25,000 crore during the last 3 years.
the administrative control of the Ministry of
 An average annual net worth of more than
Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Rs. 15,000 crore during the last 3 years.
 It is the second largest national oil and gas
 An average annual net profit after tax of
company in India.
more than Rs. 5,000 crore during the last 3
 Oil India Private Limited was incorporated on
years.
18th February 1959, to expand and develop the
newly discovered oil fields of Naharkatiya and Maharatna CPSEs
Moran in the North-Eastern region of India. 1. Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
 In 1961, it became a joint venture company 2. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
of Government of India and Burmah Oil 3. Coal India Limited
Company Limited, UK. 4. GAIL India Limited
 In 1981, OIL became a wholly owned 5. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
Government of India enterprise. 6. Indian Oil Corporation Limited
 Now, OIL became 13th Maharatna CPSE 7. NTPC Limited
with annual turnover of Rs. 41,039 crore and 8. Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Limited,
net profit of Rs. 9,854 crore for the Year 2022- 9. Power Finance Corporation
23. 10. Power Grid Corporation of India Limited
 It is headquartered (corporate office) in Noida, 11. Steel Authority of India Limited
Uttar Pardesh. 12. Rural Electrification Corporation Limited
About ONGC Videsh Limited 13. Oil India Ltd
 In August 2023, the Ministry of Finance has Criteria for grant of Navratna status to
granted ONGC Videsh Limited to Navratna CPSEs
status.  The CPSEs which are Miniratna I, Schedule
 It comes under the administrative control of ‘A’ and have obtained ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’
the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas with MOU rating in three of the last five years and
annual turnover of Rs. 11,676 crore and net having composite score of 60 or above in
profit of Rs. 1,700 crore for the Year 2022-23. following six selected performance indicators
 It is the wholly owned subsidiary and overseas are eligible to be considered for grant of
arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Navratna status.
CURRENT DRISHTI (46) October, 2023
 Indicator 100  
Similarly, the ratio of short-term debt
(Maximum (original maturity) to foreign exchange
Weight) reserves increased to 22.2 per cent at end-
1. Net Profit to Net worth 25 March 2023 (20.0 per cent at end-March
2. Manpower Cost to total 15 2022).
Cost of Production or Cost of  US dollar-denominated debt remained the
Services largest component of India’s external debt, with
3. PBDIT to Capital employed 15 a share of 54.6 per cent at end-March 2023,
4. PBIT to Turnover 15 followed by debt denominated in the Indian
5. Earning Per Share 10 rupee (29.8 per cent), SDR (6.1 per cent), yen
(5.7 per cent), and the euro (3.2 per cent).
6. Inter Sectoral Performance 20
 The share of outstanding debt of non-financial
Navratna CPSEs corporations in total external debt was the
1. Bharat Electronics Limited highest at 38.9 per cent, followed by deposit-
2. Container Corporation of India Limited taking corporations (except the central bank)
3. Engineers India Limited (25.7 per cent), general government (21.3 per
4. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
cent) and other financial corporations (9.3 per
5. Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited
cent).
6. National Aluminium Company Limited
 Loans remained the largest component of
7. National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd.
external debt, with a share of 32.5 per cent,
8. Neyveli Lignite Corporation Limited
followed by currency and deposits (22.6 per
9. NMDC Limited
cent), trade credit and advances (19.9 per cent)
10. Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited
11. Shipping Corporation of India Limited and debt securities (16.7 per cent).
12. Rail Vikas Nigam Limited First Loss Default Guarantee
13. ONGC Videsh Ltd
(FLDG)
India’s External Debt as at the
In June 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
end of March 2023 has granted its approval for First Loss Default
On June 30, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India Guarantee (FLDG) framework. It is a safety-net
has published the quarterly data of external debt arrangement among banks, non-banking finance
of India at the end of March 2023. companies, and lending service providers (LSPs,
 At end-March 2023, India’s external debt
popularly known as fintech players) in the digital
was placed at US$ 624.7 billion, recording an lending space.
increase of US$ 5.6 billion over its level at end- What is an FLDG arrangement?
March 2022.  First Loss Default Guarantee (FLDG) is an
 The external debt to GDP ratio declined to 18.9 arrangement whereby a third party such as
per cent at end-March 2023 from 20.0 per cent a financial technology (fintech) player (LSP)
at end-March 2022. compensates lenders if the borrower defaults.
 At end-March 2023, long-term debt (with  The LSP provides certain credit enhancement
original maturity of above one year) was placed features such as first loss guarantee up to a pre-
at US$ 496.3 billion, recording a decline of US$ decided percentage of loans generated by it.
1.1 billion over its level at end-March 2022.  From the perspective of the fintechs,
 The share of short-term debt (with original offering FLDG acts as a demonstration of
maturity of up to one year) in total external its under-writing skills.
debt increased to 20.6 per cent at end-March   From the perspective of the lender, it
2023 from 19.7 per cent at end-March 2022. ensures the platform’s skin in the business.
October, 2023 (47) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Credit risk is borne by the LSP without having
to maintain any regulatory capital. America’s Richest Self-Made
 The loan portfolio backed by FLDG is akin Women
to the off-balance sheet portfolio of the LSP
Recently, Forbes has released the ‘America’s
wherein the nominal loans sit in the books of
Richest Self-Made Women’ 2023 annual list. Four
the lender without having to partake in any
Indian-origin women, including Jayshree Ullal and
lending process.
Indra Nooyi, have made it to the Forbes list of
How do FLDG work? America’s 100 most successful self-made women,
 The LSP provides first loss guarantee up to a with a combined net worth of a USD 4.06 billion.
pre-decided percentage of loans generated by it.
 The loan portfolio backed by FLDG is similar
About America’s Richest Self-Made Women
 Released in – June , 2023
to the off-balance sheet portfolio of the LSP.
 Released by – Forbes
 The lender do not partake in any lending process
but the nominal loans sit in the balance sheet of Key Highlights
the lender.  Building supply distributor Diane Hendricks,
 But the credit risk is borne by the LSP without with a $15 billion net worth, retained the top
having to maintain any regulatory capital. spot for the sixth year in a row.
What has the RBI said on FDLG?  This year’s list has eight entrants, including
 The RBI, after examining FLDG, permitted television producer Shonda Rhimes and Insitro
the arrangements between banks and CEO Daphne Koller.
fintechs or between two regulated entities The top 5 America’s Richest Self-Made
(REs). Women
Regulated entities (REs) Rank Name Net Worth
 All Commercial Banks (including Small 1 Diane Hendricks $15 billion
Finance Banks), Co-operative Banks and 2 Judy Love & family $ 10.2 billion
Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) 3 Judy Faulkner $7.4 billion
as per RBI. 4 Lynda Resnick $5.3 billion
 As per RBI, RE can enter into DLG 5 Thai Lee $4.8 billion
arrangements only with an LSP or other REs  Four Indian-origin women, who are in the
with which it has entered into an outsourcing Forbes list of America’s 100 most successful
(LSP) arrangement. self-made women are-
 The LSP-providing DLG must be incorporated  Jayshree Ullal- She has been president
as a company under the Companies Act, 2013. and CEO of Arista Networks, a computer
 The RBI has allowed banks to accept DLG in networking firm, since 2008, ranked 15th on the
digital lending only if the guarantee is in the list.
form of a cash deposit, or fixed deposits in a bank.  Neerja Sethi- with a net worth of USD 990
 The total amount of DLG cover on any million, she has been ranked 25th on the list.
outstanding portfolio does not exceed 5% of  Neerja Sethi cofounded IT consulting and
the amount of that loan portfolio. outsourcing firm Syntel with her husband
Conclusion Bharat Desai in 1980 in their apartment in
 It will strengthen credit penetration and boost Troy, Michigan.
the digital lending ecosystem.  Neha Narkhede-Narkehe, co-founder and
 It will facilitate entry of small and medium former chief technology officer (CTO) of
fintechs into the digital lending space in cloud company Confluent, is ranked 50th on
partnerships with banks or NBFCs. the list with a net worth of USD 520 million.
CURRENT DRISHTI (48) October, 2023
 Indira Nooyi- the former chair and CEO of the investor dispute resolution process with the
PepsiCo, retired in 2019 after 24 years with the involvement of private ODR institutions.
company, half of which she spent in the top  The steps for dispute resolution:
job.  An investor or client should first take up
 The 67-year-old has a net worth of USD the grievance with the market participant
350 million and is ranked 77th on the by lodging a complaint directly with the
Forbes list. concerned market participant.
  If the grievance is not redressed
Online Dispute Resolution satisfactorily, the investor or client
(ODR) Mechanism may escalate the same through
 To enhance the grievance redressal process,
the SCORES Portal.
 After exhausting all available options, if the
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
in August 2023, announced the launch of an investor or the client is still not satisfied,
Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) mechanism. he or she can initiate dispute resolution
  The mechanism aims to empower through the ODR Portal.
aggrieved investors to seek mediation and  The first step is conciliation. If this fails,
arbitration against various intermediaries. the next step is arbitration.
 The aim of the measure is to streamline the Key Aspects of the ODR Mechanism
existing dispute resolution mechanism in 1. Role of SCORES: The SEBI complaint
the securities market under the aegis of Redress System (SCORES) plays a crucial role
stock exchanges and depositories Market in the dispute resolution process. Investors must
Infrastructure Institutions (MII) by first register their complaints on the SCORES
establishing a common ODR portal. platform, where they can escalate the matter in
  The new system will harness online a time-bound manner.
conciliation and online arbitration for 2. Ambit of ODR: ODR will cover a wide
resolution of disputes arising in the array of intermediaries, including alternate
securities market. investment funds (AIFs), investment advisors,
 In the first phase of ODR implementation,
mutual funds, portfolio managers, research
brokers and depository participants will get
analysts, and more.
covered in the ODR system by 15 August, 2023.
3. Appointment of Conciliators and
 In the second phase of implementation,
Arbitrators: Market infrastructure institutions
other market participants need to register
(MIIs) like stock exchanges and depositories
on the ODR portal by 15 September, 2023.
will appoint ODR conciliators and arbitrators to
What are ODR institutions?
 According to SEBI, each MII will identify
facilitate the resolution process for the clients.
and empanel one or more independent 4. Fee Structure: The ODR mechanism aims to
ODR institutions. These institutions will have provide an accessible resolution process for
qualified conciliators and arbitrators. MIIs will, investors. While there won’t be any fees for
in consultation with their empanelled ODR registering a complaint on the ODR portal, the
institutions, establish and operate a common conciliator (mediator) will charge a fee of Rs.
ODR portal. 4,800 for successful conciliation and Rs. 3,240
 All listed companies, specified intermediaries for unsuccessful conciliation.
and regulated entities in the securities market 5. Arbitration Proceedings: In case the matter
(referred to as market participants) will enroll is not resolved through conciliation, investors
on the ODR portal. can initiate arbitration proceedings on the ODR
 SEBI has not specified who will qualify as portal. Arbitration fees will depend on the claim
ODR institutions. But it is likely to outsource amount.
October, 2023 (49) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Russia’s Ambitions Luna-25 Chandrayaan-3 Luna-25
Lift-off Mass 3,900 kg 1.750 kg
Mission Ends In Failure
69.36°S, 69.54°S,
Landing site
Recently, shortly after a crucial maneuver that 32.34°E 43.54°E
put the Luna-25 spacecraft into its pre-landing orbit, Mission life 14 Days 1 year
it suffered a catastrophic failure and crashed into the  Russia’s Luna-25 mission was aimed at landing
Moon’s surface. at the Moon’s South Pole, just days before India’s
About Luna-25 Moon Mission Chandrayaan-3.
 Launched by : Roscosmos (Russia)  According to Roscosmos, a landing by Luna 25
 Vehicle used : Soyuz 2.1 b or Soyuz-2 Freg at would not have affected Chandrayaan-3 because
Rocket their landing zones were different.
 Launched date : August 10, 2023  It marks Russia’s return to lunar exploration after
 Objective of the Mission: it has eight payloads 47 years, aiming to reclaim its reputation in space
mainly to study the soil composition, dust particles exploration.
in the polar exosphere, and most importantly, detect  Russia’s (earlier USSR) out of the 42 attempts to
surface water. land between 1963 and 1976, only 21 succeeded,
giving a success ratio of just 50 per cent.
14 July, 2023 Chandrayaan-3 23 August, 2023  It was given that name to represent the continuation
Chandrayaan-3 Successfully landed
of the Luna series, which was employed fifty years ago
Launch
by the Soviet Union (Now Russia) to reach the Moon.
 On August 20, Roscosmos issued a statement stating
that Luna 25 had suffered a glitch and crashed on
the moon’s surface, ending the mission in a failure.
 There are many reasons for Luna 25 reaching the
Lunar Transfer Moon earlier than Chandrayaan-3 such as direct
Injection Orbit Trajectory Lunar Orbit
Insertion trajectory advantage, lighter payload and larger fuel
storage, circuitous route for Chandrayaan-3.
10 July, 2023 Luna 25 21-22 August, 2023
Probable Landing;  Only the United States of America (USA), the
Luna-25
but failed Soviet Union (Now Russia), China and India have
Launch
Injection Orbit successfully completed a soft landing on the Moon.

India and Russia Space Cooperation

 The two countries have a far bigger history of
Lunar Transfer
Trajectory Lunar Orbit cooperation in space.
Insertion  India’s first satellite, Aryabhata, was launched by
Fregat Firing stage
the Soviet Union (Now Russia) in 1975.

CURRENT DRISHTI (50) October, 2023

  Even when there is turbulence, Pibot’s arms and
 Only one Indian citizen has ever flown to space—
Rakesh Sharma. Sharma flew to the Salyut 7 fingers can operate the flight instruments. It contains
cameras to keep an eye on the plane and operate
space station on a Soyuz-T-11 rocket in 1984 as
controls.
part of the USSR’s Interkosmos program.
 It can manage crises and retains global flight charts
 In 2004, the two countries signed a protocol to
for precise navigation.
boost cooperation in space.
 Pibot uses voice synthesis to converse with air
 This included the development of the GLONASS
traffic controllers and people while posing as a pilot
navigation system and the launching of Russian
or first officer.
GLONASS satellites by Indian rockets.
 The four astronauts who will be part of India’s James Webb Telescope
first crewed space mission: Gaganyaan have been
Captures Stunning Image Of
trained in Russian facilities.
Ring Nebula
Agnibaan Rocket The famous Ring Nebula, commonly known
Agnikul Cosmos, based in Chennai, is prepared as Messier 57, has been the subject of stunning new
photos taken by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope
to launch its 3D-printed rocket Agnibaan SubOrbital
(JWST). This can help astronomers to study the chemical
Technological Demonstrator (SOrTeD) from its
evolution of these objects using pictures like this.
private launchpad located at the Satish Dhawan Space
Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota. Ring Nebula
 The Ring Nebula (also known as Messier 57, M57
Agnibaan SOrTeD and NGC 6720) is a planetary nebula in the northern
 It is a single-stage launch vehicle driven by Agnikul’s
constellation of Lyra.
patented Agnilet engine - an entirely 3D-printed,  It was born from a dying star that expelled its outer
single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic engine. layers into space, making it a planetary nebula.
 It was officially unveiled and integrated on August  Planetary nebulae come in a variety of shapes and
15 at Agnikul’s Mission Control Center (AMCC) patterns, some that include delicate glowing rings,
at Sriharikota in front of representatives from the wispy clouds and expanding bubbles.
Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC), the Indian  The tiny white dot in the center of the nebula is the
National Space Promotion and Authorisation star’s hot core, called a white dwarf.
Center (IN-SPACE), as well as several Agnikul  It was discovered by the French astronomer Antoine
team members. Darquier de Pellepoix in 1779.
 M57 is about 2,000 light-years away in the
‘Pibot,’ the humanoid robot constellation Lyra, is tilted toward Earth so that
astronomers see the ring face-on and is best observed
The ‘Pibot’ humanoid robot is being created by a
during August.
team of engineers and scientists at the Korea Advanced
 The deferent colors illustrate the nebula’s chemical
Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) to
composition.
operate aircraft without altering the cockpit.  The deep blue color in the center represents helium,
About Pibot the light blue color of the inner ring is the glow of
 It is the world’s first humanoid pilot. hydrogen and oxygen, and the reddish color of the
 It can fly an aeroplane just like a human pilot by outer ring is from nitrogen and sulfur.
manipulating all the single controls in the cockpit, James Webb Telescope
which is designed for humans.  The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a ground-
 It comprehends flight manuals and controls the plane breaking space observatory, is one of the NASA’s
in real time using robotics and artificial intelligence. most ambitious and challenging missions.

October, 2023 (51) CURRENT DRISHTI

 The Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the European The
  Himalayan Quail (Ophrysia
Space Agency (ESA), and NASA worked together superciliosa), listed as ‘Critically Endangered’
to develop the JWST. with its last recorded sighting in 1876; and
 The telescope is designed to operate in the infrared   The Jerdon’s Courser (Rhinoptilus
range, enabling it to see through dust clouds and bitorquatus), listed as ‘Critically Endangered’
observe distant objects with greater clarity. with its last confirmed sighting in 2009.
 The telescope will study objects within our solar  The publication points out that the 75 bird species
system, such as asteroids, comets, and the outer belong to 11 different orders, 31 families, and 55
planets genera, and exhibit remarkable distribution patterns
 The JWST will also study exoplanets, planets orbiting across various regions in India.
stars beyond our solar system, to characterize their  The highest number of endemic species has been
atmospheres and potential habitability. recorded in the Western Ghats, with 28 bird
 The JWST was launched on an Ariane 5 rocket species.
from the Ariane Space's ELA-3 Launch complex  The Andaman and Nicobar Islands also have
located Ner Kourou, French Guiana on significant endemism, hosting 25 bird species unique
December 25, 2021. to the region.
 It is situated on the second Lagrange point (L2),
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
which is around 1.5 million kilometres (almost 1
 The ZSI was established on 1st July, 1916.
million miles) from Earth.
 Headquarters : Kolkata, West Bengal
 Current Director: Dr. Dhriti Banerjee
5% of birds in India are
 Parent organisation: Ministry of Environ-
endemic, reveals Zoological ment, Forest and Climate Change
Survey of India publication  Its primary objective is to promote exploration,
survey, inventorying and monitoring of faunal
A recent publication by the Zoological Survey of
diversity in various States, Ecosystems and
India (ZSI) points out that about 5% of birds found in
Protected areas of India.
the country are endemic and are not reported in other
 It also prepares the Red Data Book of Fauna of
parts of the world. India and Fauna of States.
About the report:  The survey has its genesis in the establishment of
 Titled: “75 Endemic Birds of India,” the Zoological Section of the Indian Museum at
 Published by: The Zoological Survey of India Calcutta in 1875.
(ZSI)  India is recognized as one of the seventeen mega
 Released on: The 108th foundation day of the ZSI
diversity countries of the world with four biodiversity
Key Findings hot spots -Western Ghats / Sri Lanka, Indo Burma,
 India is home to 1,353 bird species, which represents Himalayas and Sundaland.
approximately 12.40% of global bird diversity.
 78 (or 5%) of these 1,353 bird species are indigenous. The Einstein cross
 Amitava Majumder, one of the authors of the
Recent research has revealed a magnificent,
publication, said that of the 78 species, three species
uncommon instance of an “Einstein cross” that splits
have not been recorded in the last few decades.
and magnifies light from the far depths of the universe.
 They are-
  The Manipur Bush Quail (Perdicula About Einstein Cross
manipurensis), listed as ‘Endangered’ by  The Einstein Cross, also known as 2237+0305,
the International Union for Conservation is a unique gravitational lensing phenomenon
of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened observed in space, specifically involving a distant
Species with its last recorded sighting in 1907 quasar.

CURRENT DRISHTI (52) October, 2023

 The Einstein Cross was discovered in 1985 by a Solar TErrestrial RElations Observatory
team of astronomers led by John Huchra. (STEREO) mission
 The phenomenon got its named due to the cross-  STEREO is the third mission in NASA’s Solar
like pattern created by the four bright images of the Terrestrial Probes program (STP).
quasar around the lensing galaxy.  It was launched in 2006 from Cape Canaveral
 This remarkable event was first predicted by Albert (Florida, the US) with twin spacecraft, STEREO-A
Einstein in 1915 as a consequence of his theory of (A stands for Ahead) and STEREO-B (B stands for
general relativity. Behind).
 The distribution of matter surrounding a large galaxy  The mission objective is to provide the first-ever
and its gravitational pull can “bend” the light from stereoscopic measurements to study the Sun and
that galaxy as it passes by a more distant background the nature of its coronal mass ejections, or CMEs.
object (such a galaxy or a quasar) when that object is  The satellites trace the flow of energy and matter
directly “in front of ” the larger galaxy. from the Sun to Earth as well as reveal the 3-D
 In this case, Earth, the lensing galaxy and the quasar structure of CMEs and help us understand why they
have aligned to perfectly duplicate the quasar’s light, happen.
arranging them along a so-called Einstein ring.  By separating 180 degrees from STEREO-B in its
Why are these so rare? orbit, STEREO-A reached an important milestone
 It turns out that gravitational lensing occurs in 2011.
throughout the universe, primarily in the form of  The Sun was now seen to humans as a whole sphere
so-called “weak lensing”. thanks to this spatial configuration, which provided
 Creating an Einstein Cross requires a precise alignment critical insights into the Sun’s intricate structure and
of the lensing body and light source and astronomers activities.
refer to this as “strong gravitational lensing”.  STEREO-B broke contact with mission control
What is Gravitational Lensing? in 2014 after a planned reset (B’s mission officially
 Einstein’s theory of general relativity explains how
ended in 2018).
massive objects can warp the fabric of space-time The Purpose of STEREO-A’s Earth Flyby:
 Gravity, as described by Einstein, is not a force  During the upcoming Earth flyby, STEREO-A will
but rather a result of space-time curvature caused once again combine views to achieve stereoscopic
by matter and energy. vision.
 When light passes through highly curved regions  This allows the extraction of 3D information
of space-time, such as those near massive galaxies, from two-dimensional images, similar to how our
it bends and forms a halo. two eyes, looking out at the world from different
 The body causing the light to curve is accordingly locations, create depth perception.
called a gravitational lens.  STEREO-A will synthesize its views with those
 An important consequence of this lensing from NASA’s and the European Space Agency’s
distortion is magnification, allowing us to observe Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO)
objects that would otherwise be too far away and and NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO).
too faint to be seen.  As STEREO-A’s distance from Earth changes
throughout the flyby, it will optimize its stereo vision
NASA’s STEREO-’s Earth Flyby
for different-sized solar features at different times,
Recently, NASA’s STEREO-A spacecraft, part  This is akin to adjusting the focus on a several
of the Solar TErrestrial RElations Observatory million-mile-wide telescope.
(STEREO) mission, achieved a significant milestone,  This opportunity will be used to identify active
as it performed its first-ever Earth flyby after nearly 17 regions underlying sunspots and uncover 3D
years in space. information about their structure.

October, 2023 (53) CURRENT DRISHTI

 They will also test a new theory suggesting that Segment B– Green Urban Mobility Initiatives
coronal loops, giant arches often seen in close-up (GUMI): (181 cities)
images of the Sun, might be optical illusions.  The scheme envisages green initiatives like bus
 STEREO-A’s flyby will allow scientists to understand priority, infrastructure, multimodal interchange
how a coronal mass ejection’s (CME) magnetic field facilities, NCMC (National Common Mobility
evolves on its way to Earth. Card) -based Automated Fare Collection
Systems, Charging infrastructure, etc.
PM-eBus Sewa
Support for Operation:
Recently, the Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister,  Under the scheme, States/Cities shall be
has approved a bus scheme “PM-eBus Sewa” for responsible for running the bus services and making
augmenting city bus operation by 10,000 e-buses on PPP payments to the bus operators.
model.  The Central Government will support these
Key highlights of the Scheme: bus operations by providing subsidy to the extent
 Objective: The scheme aims to introduce 10,000 specified in the proposed scheme.
electric buses (e-buses) in city bus services across Boost to E-Mobility:
India and enhance urban infrastructure for green  The scheme will promote e-mobility and provide full
mobility. support for behind-the-meter power infrastructure.
 Cost and Support of the Scheme: The Scheme  Cities will also be supported for development of
would have an estimated cost of Rs.57,613 crore, charging infrastructure under Green Urban Mobility
out of which support of Rs.20,000 crore will be Initiatives.
provided by the Central government.  The support to bus priority infrastructure shall not
 Duration: The Scheme will support bus operations only accelerate the proliferation of state-of-the-
for 10 years. art, energy efficient electric buses but also foster
 Reaching the Unreached: the innovation in the e-mobility sector as well as
 The scheme will cover cities of three lakh and development of resilient supply chain for electric
above population as per census 2011. vehicles.
 It will include all the Capital cities of Union  This scheme shall also bring in economies of
Territories, North Eastern Region and Hill scale for procurement of electric buses through
States. Under this scheme priority will be given aggregation for e-buses.
to cities having no organized bus service.  Adoption to Electric mobility will reduce noise and
 Employment Generation: The scheme will air pollution and curb carbon emission.
generate 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs through  Modal shift due to increased share of bus-based
deployment of around 10,000 buses in city bus public transportation will lead to GHG reduction.
operation.
Other Schemes of Government for Green
 The Scheme has two segments: Mobility:
Segment A – Augmenting the City bus  NTPC’s hydrogen-based FCEV project
services:(169 cities)  FAME India and FAME II schemes for EV
 The approved bus scheme will augment city incentives
bus operations with 10,000 e-buses on Public  Promotion of green hydrogen and FCEVs like
Private Partnership (PPP) model. Toyota Mirai
 Associated Infrastructure will provide support  Participation in the global EV30@30 campaign
for Development/ up-gradation of depot  Roadmap for 20% ethanol blending in India
infrastructure; and Creation of behind-the- ‘2020-25’.
meter power infrastructure (substation, etc.)  Amendments to the National Policy on Biofuels,
for e-buses. 2018

CURRENT DRISHTI (54) October, 2023

  They are highly resilient in harsh environments
Radio Thermoelectric
and can function in extreme temperatures and
Generators (RTGs) radiation levels.
Recently, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre  
However, the use of radioactive materials
(BARC) and the Indian Space Research Organisation requires strict safety measures for handling,
(ISRO) began working together to develop radio transport, and disposal.
thermoelectric generators (RTGs), a novel strategy Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
intended to overcome the limitations of conventional  Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha conceived the
chemical engines for interplanetary travel. Nuclear Program in India.
How do RTGs work?  Dr Bhabha established the Tata Institute of
 Chemical engines are effective for satellite thrusters, Fundamental Research (TIFR) for carrying
but due to fuel constraints and a lack of solar power out nuclear science research in 1945.
in far-off places, they are unsuitable for long space  In January 1954, he established the Atomic

flight. Energy Establishment, Trombay

 RTGs are innovative power sources designed to (AEET) to intensify the effort to exploit
address these challenges in deep space missions. nuclear energy and for multidisciplinary
 They utilize radioactive materials, such as research program essential for the ambitious
Plutonium-238 or Strontium-90, which emit heat nuclear program of India.
 After the demise of Bhabha in 1966, AEET
as they decay over time.
was renamed Bhabha Atomic Research
 The propulsion and power of spacecraft are made
Centre (BARC).
possible by the harnessing and conversion of this
 BARC is the mother of R&D institutions such
heat into electricity.
as Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research
 Essentially, the engine contains two parts—
(IGCAR), Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced
The radioisotope heater unit (RHU):
Technology (RRCAT), Variable Energy
 Heat is produced by the RHU as a result of
Cyclotron Centre(VECC), etc., which carry out
radioactive material decay.
pioneering.
  It starts the procedure by releasing thermal
energy, which forms the basis for the
‘Urea Gold’ Fertiliser
production of electricity.
 he RTG (Heat-to-Electricity Conversion):
T Recently, Indian Prime Minister officially launched
 The RTG part converts the heat that the RHU ‘Urea Gold’ fertiliser’, a new variety of Urea, developed
produces into useful power. by Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd (RCF),
  A thermocouple, a substance that produces during an event in Rajasthan’s Sikar.
electricity when exposed to a temperature
About Urea Gold
gradient, is used for this conversion.
 It is a new variety of Urea coated with Sulphur.
 The spacecraft’s batteries are charged using the
 Urea Gold is created by infusing urea with sulfur,
voltage the thermocouple produces.
 The propulsion systems that are powered by
creating a composite fertilizer with 37% nitrogen
these batteries, in turn, enable interplanetary (N) and 17% sulfur (S).
flight.  It is being introduced to address the Sulphur

 Advantages and Considerations: deficiency in soil and save input costs for the farmers.
 RTGs offer a continuous and reliable power  Urea Gold surpasses the existing Neem-coated urea
source that can endure for many years. in terms of both economic viability and efficiency.

October, 2023 (55) CURRENT DRISHTI

What Makes Urea Gold Superior to Other Why launched in Shahdol?
Products?  Highest tribal population as per census 2011
 The availability and uptake of nitrogen by crops are resides in Madhya Pradesh (MP).
improved by urea that has been coated with sulphur.  MP carries the highest number of sickle cell
 The sulfur coating on urea enables a gradual anaemia patients in India.
release of nitrogen, leading to prolonged nutrient
availability. Mission of NSCAEM
 To improve the care of all Sickle Cell disease
 Humic acid is added to Urea Gold to further increase
the fertilizer’s shelf life. patients for their better future and to lower the
 This product minimises the amount of fertiliser prevalence of the disease through a multi-faced
coordinated approach towards screening and
used overall while also replacing conventional urea
awareness strategies.
consumption.
 Vision – Eliminate Sickle Cell Disease as public
 The paper claims that 15 kg of Urea Gold has
health problem in India by 2047.
benefits equivalent to those of 20 kg of traditional
urea, making it a more sensible and useful option for What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?
farmers.  SCD begins the early childhood (5 to 6 months of
 The gradual release of nutrients minimizes wastage age). It is a group of inherited red blood cell disorder
and enhances the nutrient uptake by plants, ultimately that affect hemoglobin, leading to rigid sickle-like
translating into enhanced productivity. shape.
 The agricultural pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers  The condition affects more than 20 million people
and fungicides are very toxic and are released worldwide.
into the soil, rivers, lakes, and seas lead to
 SCD common in some ethnic groups of central
Biomagnifications.
India where prevalence ranged from 7.4% to 20%
What is Urea? in endemic areas of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan &
 A white crystalline substance known as urea is Chhattisgarh. Also common among Tharu people
frequently used in agriculture as synthetic fertiliser. of Nepal & India.
 Urea is broken down by enzymes into ammonia
Conclusion
and carbon dioxide when applied to the soil or
 Over the time declaration of 3 years from fiscal
crops.
year 2023-24 to 2025-26, the program shall target
 After that, the ammonia is transformed into
screening approximately 7.0 crore people under 40
ammonium ions, which plant roots can absorb
year of age in next 3 years.
and use for germination and growth.
 Promoting early diagnosis and intervention in
mission mode as part of National Health Mission
National Sickle Cell Anaemia
(NHM), eliminating Sickle cell genetic transmission
Elimination Mission 2023 by year 2047.
NSCAEM
ISRO’s PSLV-C56 puts 7
“Sickle Cell Disease is a disease that impacts tribal
satellites in orbit
sections of society significantly. The government is
committed to eliminate the disease before India celebrates Recently, the PSLV-C56, carrying Singapore’s DS-
it’s Amrit Kaal in 2047.” SAR satellite and six other satellites, was successfully
This was stated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation
Modi as he launched NSCAEM in Shahdol, Madhya (ISRO) from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota,
Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh.

CURRENT DRISHTI (56) October, 2023

About the mission  Launch Vehicle: Falcon Heavy rocket
 Vehicle used: PSLV-C56  Spaceport: Launch Complex-39A of Kennedy
 Launched date: July 30, 2023 Space Center, Florida, USA.
 Launched by: Indian Space Research Organisation  The Jupiter 3 satellite is designed to deliver internet
(ISRO) services to customers in North and South America.
 Launch base: Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR  The satellite will support services such as in-flight
(SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota Wi-Fi and augment private Wi-Fi usage with other
Payloads on board PSLV-C56 wireless technologies.
Satellite Agency/Country News in Short
DS-SAR DSTA-ST Engineering, Singapore
Arcade Bharat Internet Utsav
Velox-AM NTU, Singapore  The Department of Telecommunications (DOT)

SCOOB-II has launched the ‘Bharat Internet Utsav’ to

celebrate the power of the Internet in July, 2023.
ORB-12 Strider Aliena Private Limited, Singapore
 It recognizes the internet as an essential tool
Galassia-2 NUS, Singapore
for connectivity, knowledge-sharing and socio-
NuLIoN NuSpace Private Limited, Singapore economic development.
 PSLV-C56 is configured in its core-alone mode, Nagaland Officially declared as Lumpy
launched DS-SAR, a 360 kg satellite into a Near- Skin Disease Positive State
equatorial Orbit (NEO) at 5 degrees inclination
 Nagaland has been officially declared as a Lumpy
and 535 km altitude.
Skin Disease Positive State. The declaration is made
 It was the 58th flight of PSLV and using the 17th
following the detection of the Lumpy Skin Disease
vehicle with Core Alone Configuration.
in four districts of the State.
 The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) has
acquired the nickname “Workhorse of ISRO” for Lump Skin Diseases (LSD)
reliably launching numerous satellites into low-Earth  The disease is caused by the caused by the capripox

orbit. virus, also known as the “neethling” virus, and has

 PSLV-C56 / DS-SAR, is the Dedicated Commercial severe economic consequences, including increased
Mission of New Space India Limited (NSIL), a mortality, reduced productivity, higher control costs,
commercial arm of the ISRO, for ST Engineering, business loss and decreased market value, which
Singapore. ultimately affects food security.
NASA to launch OTT platform ‘NASA
SpaceX: World’s largest Private
Plus’
Communications Satellite
 NASA (National Aeronautics and Space
Recently, using the Falcon Heavy launch vehicle, Administration) is redesigning its webpages,
Elon Musk-led SpaceX launched Hughes’ Jupiter 3, which launching its first on-demand streaming service, and
could be the largest private communications satellite. updating its NASA app. It recently launched the beta
About Jupiter 3 version of its flagship and other websites.
 Launched by: Space X  NASA Plus is NASA’s own live streaming service
 Developed by: Maxar Technologies in Palo Alto, which will provide an array of space-related content
California to the public. It will live-stream all NASA missions
 Launched: July, 2023 in future.

October, 2023 (57) CURRENT DRISHTI

  The report analysed data collated from India’s
State of India’s Birds 2023
birdwatchers and conservation organizations
Report on 942 bird species.
Recently, the State of India’s Birds  It found that nearly 60% of the 348 species
(SoIB) 2023 was released, which reveals a widespread studied over a period of 25 years showed long-
decline in most bird species across the country. term declines, and 40% of the 359 species
assessed over the short term (since 2015) had
About State of India’s Birds (SoIB) report-
also declined.
 It is the second edition of the SoIB report,
after the first was published in 2020. The 2023 Raptor and Vultures
report highlights four priority species requiring  The report also stated that raptor and duck
conservation attention in each of India’s 36 populations had declined the most, while
states and union territories. numbers of several common species, such as
 The State of India’s Birds report is a periodic the great grey shrike, were also falling.
assessment of the distribution range, trends in  Migratory birds were found to be declining
abundance, and conservation status for most of more rapidly than non-migratory ones.
the bird species that regularly occur in India.
Classification
 With their ubiquity and ecological importance,
 Categorised by diet, carnivorous, insectivorous
birds are excellent indicators of the state of our
and grain-eating birds were found to have
natural world and are potent cultural symbols
declined more rapidly than fruit- and nectar-
of nature.
eating types.
 As a comprehensive, national-level assessment,
 Birds in specific habitats like grasslands and
the report points the way towards conservation
needs of India’s birds. shrublands, classified in India as wastelands,
 Based on IUCN Red List of global threat status, had also declined more rapidly than those in
this report places Indian species into three open habitats.
categories. Conservations and status
  Low  For species listed under moderate conservation
  Moderate priority, more work was required to identify
  High. early warning signals, while those in the low
Major Highlights Of Report conservation priority were not to be ignored.
Worrisome declines -  The report did find 217 species that were stable
 The State of India’s Birds (SoIB) report showed or increasing in numbers. Feral rock pigeons,
worrisome declines, with 178 species of wild Asian koel and Indian peafowl were found to
birds identified as needing immediate priority be doing well, but the impact of their increasing
for conservation, including several previously numbers on other, more vulnerable species is
thought to be common and widespread. not known.
CURRENT DRISHTI (58) October, 2023
 The assessments, based on data from around  Mangrove Cell will generate funds from private
30,000 birdwatchers, indicate that 60% of the and international sectors, as well us publish
338 species with identifiable long-term trends books and conduct research on the subject.
have declined, while 36 species have increased.  15.56 crore mangrove saplings were planted by
 For the 338 species with identified long-term the West Bengal Forest Department in an area
trends, 60% have experienced declines, 29% are of about 10,398 acres from 2020 to 2021,
stable, and 11% have shown increases.  West Bengal which is home to about 40% of
 Common birds like the Baya weaver and pied
mangrove forests in India.
bushchat were also found to be relatively stable.
 However, several species like the Indian Peafowl, National Initiative for
Rock Pigeon, Asian Koel, and House Crow are
Developing and Harnessing
thriving and increasing in both abundance and
distribution. Innovations
 Among the 359 species with determined
Recently In a written reply to a question
current annual trends, 39% are declining, 18%
in the Rajya Sabha, Dr Jitendra Singh informed
are rapidly declining, 53% are stable, and 8% are
increasing. that NIDHI program has various components to
support innovations, startups and startup incubation
Major threats
ecosystem in the country.
 Climate Change
 Urbanization Key Points
 Mono-cultures About NIDHI Program
 Energy Infrastructure  Department of Science & Technology launched
 Lack of food an umbrella program NIDHI (National Initiative
 Transmission lines for Developing and Harnessing innovations) in
Recommendation 2016.
 It recommended an urgent reassessment of  The NIDHI program has been helpful in
the status of 14 of these species, including the creating state-of-the art infrastructure for
Indian roller, which is listed by the International incubating startups in technology sectors
Union for Conservation of Nature as being of through Technology Business Incubators
“least concern”. (TBIs) and Centres of Excellence (CoE).
 There is a need to conserve specific groups  NIDHI comprises various components that
of birds. For instance, the report found provide a comprehensive framework for
that grassland specialists have declined by
promoting and accelerating innovation-driven
more than 50% – indicating the importance
enterprises across the nation.
of protecting and maintaining grassland
ecosystems. Components of NIDHI Program
 NIDHI- PRAYAS (Promoting and
‘Mangrove Cell’ Accelerating Young and Aspiring Innovators
Recently W.B. government announces and Startups) program at Proof-of-Concept
Mangrove Cell on International Day of Mangrove level provides mentoring and financial support
Ecosystem. to innovator for converting their ideas into
Key Point prototypes.
 This platform will bring certain continuity to  NIDHI Entrepreneurs-In-Residence (EIR)
the efforts of State government in mangrove Program provides fellowships to the students
management. opting for entrepreneurship.
October, 2023 (59) CURRENT DRISHTI
 The NIDHI Seed Support Program Key Highlights
provisions availability of early-stage seed About River Devika
support funding to startups and the NIDHI  Devika river originates from the hilly Suddha
Accelerator program speeds up the investment Mahadev temple in the Udhampur district
readiness of the startups. of Jammu and Kashmir and flows down
 Major Collaborators with NIDHI: towards western Punjab (now in Pakistan)
1. Council of Scientific and Industrial where it merges with the Ravi river.
Research (CSIR) Devika river rejuvenation project
2. BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research  Devika river rejuvenation project Built at a cost
Assistance Council) of over Rs 190 crore on the lines of ‘Namami
3.  Innovations for Defence Excellence Gange’.
(iDEX)  This project has been included in the
4.  National Agriculture Innovation Fund Government of India’s National River
of ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Conservation Project (NRCP). The work to
Research) rejuvenate the Devika river started in March
2019.
Himalayan Vulture: Gyps  The Rs 190 crore fund allotted for the project is
Himalayensis being shared in the ratio of 90:10 by the Centre
and the Union Territory respectively.
Recently, the Assam State Zoo in Guwahati has
done a daunting task by successfully breeding the MoEFCC Reverses Decision to
elusive Himalayan vulture (Gyps himalayensis) in Merge Autonomous Bodies
captivity for the first time in India.
Recently, the Ministry of Environment,
Key Highlights Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) reversed its
 Himalayan vulture (Gyps himalayensis) decision to establish integrated regional offices by
Categorised as ‘Near Threatened’ on the merging key environmental bodies under its
International Union for Conservation of umbrella.
Nature (IUCN) Red List of threatened species. Key Highlights
 Four VCBCs established by Bombay Natural What was previous plan of MoEFCC
History Society (BNHS) at Pinjore in Haryana,  During Covid-19 Lockdown Period,Ministry
Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, Rani in Assam, of Environment, Forests and Climate Change
and Rajabhatkhawa in West Bengal are (MoEFCC) issued a notification to establish
involved in conservation breeding of the integrated regional offices by merging offices
White-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis), of the Forest Survey of India (FSI), the
Slender-billed vulture(Gyps tenuirostris), National Tiger Conservation Authority
and the Indian vulture (Gyps indicus). (NTCA), the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau
(WCCB), and the Central Zoo Authority
River Devika Rejuvenation (CZA), and thus bring them under the Ministry.
Project What was the ministry’s rationale?
 MoEFCC rationalized that the issued
Recently Union minister Jitendra Singh notification does not amount to a merger
informed the media that North India’s first river and that the intention was to get the various
rejuvenation project ‘Devika’ carried out at a cost authorities to function at 19 regional offices,
of over Rs 190 crore is nearing completion. under one roof.
CURRENT DRISHTI (60) October, 2023
Criticisms of previous Decision  Anthropogenic (human-caused) emissions
 NTCA had opposed it, saying it could lead include mercury that is released from fuels
to “administrative confusion, chaos loss of or raw materials, or from uses in products or
independence, undue interference in decision industrial processes. Examples are-
making, and loss of focus in discharging duties   Batteries
and responsibilities.   measuring devices, such as thermometers
 The notification is an acknowledgment that and barometers
the decision to merge the different statutory,   electric switches and relays in equipment
scientific, and administrative bodies was done   lamps (including some types of light bulbs)
without much thought.   dental amalgam (for dental fillings)
  skin-lightening products and other
Sixth Anniversary of the cosmetics
Minamata Convention   pharmaceuticals.

Minamata Convention on Mercury, which How does mercury threaten our health?
 Elemental and methylmercury are toxic to the
marks its sixth anniversary, is a significant global
central and peripheral nervous systems. The
agreement aimed at safeguarding people and the
inhalation of mercury vapour can produce
environment from the harmful impacts of mercury
harmful effects on the nervous, digestive and
exposure.
immune systems, lungs and kidneys, and may be
About Minamata Convention fatal.
 The Minamata Convention on Mercury is the  Neurological and behavioural disorders may be
most recent global agreement on environment observed after inhalation, ingestion or dermal
and health, adopted in 2013. exposure of different mercury compounds.
 It is named after the bay in Japan where, in the Symptoms include tremors, insomnia, memory
mid-20th century, mercury-tainted industrial loss, neuromuscular effects, headaches and
wastewater poisoned thousands of people, cognitive and motor dysfunction.
leading to severe health damage that became
Way Forward
known as the “Minamata disease.
 There are several ways to prevent adverse health
 Since it entered into force on 16 August 2017,
effects, including promoting clean energy,
Parties have been working together to control stopping the use of mercury in gold mining,
the mercury supply and trade, reduce the use, eliminating the mining of mercury and phasing
emission and release of mercury, raise public out non-essential mercury-containing products.
awareness, and build the necessary institutional
capacity to Make Mercury History. “Towards Decarbonising
About mercury Transport 2023 : A Stocktake
 Mercury is a naturally-occurring chemical
on Sectoral Ambition in G20”
element found in rock in the earth’s crust,
including in deposits of coal. On the periodic Report
table, it has the symbol “Hg” and its atomic Recently Niti Aayog Released “Towards
number is 80. Decarbonising Transport 2023: A Stocktake on
 Mercury is in top 10 of chemicals of major Sectoral Ambition in G20” Report.
public concern according to WHO. About this report
Sources of Mercury Pollution:  This report analyses the current state of
 Natural sources of mercury include volcanic decarbonisation and climate ambition in the
eruptions and emissions from the ocean. transport sectors of G20 countries.
October, 2023 (61) CURRENT DRISHTI
 In light of India’s G20 presidency in 2023, and  To ensure that efficiency gains ultimately achieve
with emerging economies at the helm of the envisaged carbon reductions, measures need to
intergovernmental forum in 2022 (Indonesia) be tailored in a way that encourages the use of
and 2024 (Brazil). smaller, lighter vehicles.
 This report seeks to support global discussions  Electrification is an important tool in many
surrounding sustainable transport and the effort countries for addressing local air pollution, a
to achieve the goals stipulated in international shift towards fully renewable power generation
would help to reduce GHG emissions in the
climate accords, especially the Paris Agreement
power sector while also supporting zero-carbon
and the Glasgow Declaration.
transport options.
 This report illustrates the current status
 Many of the necessary developments in the
and development of the transport sector by
transport sector, such as electrification and
offering an in-depth analysis of G20 countries digitalisation, require close integration with
showcased in individual country fact sheets and other sectors.
providing the latest set of comprehensive data  The organisational structure of G20 working
on transport, energy, and mobility. groups and task forces should reflect this fact.
Challenges for decarbonisation and climate
Ministry of Road Transport &
ambition in the transport sectors
 The journey to a decarbonised transport sector Highways Launched Bharat
will be far from easy, not least because the NCAP (New Car Assessment
world community is already facing enormous
Programme)
challenges.
 The Covid-19 pandemic is still a serious threat Recently Government of India launched the
in various parts of the world. Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat
 Russia-Ukraine war has triggered a crisis marked NCAP) to enhance road safety by elevating vehicle
by increased geopolitical tensions, supply chain safety standards for up to 3.5-tonne vehicles in India.
disruptions, spiraling energy prices, and rising Key Points
inflation.  Launched by- Union Minister of Road
 The need to address multiple crises Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari
simultaneously will be the rule rather than the  Launched at- New Delhi on 22 August,2023
 Programme Commence date - This
exception in the coming years.
programme will commence from 1st Oct 2023.
Recommendations of Report  Aim-To enhance road safety by elevating vehicle
 A sole focus on vehicle technology will not be safety standards for up to 3.5-tonne vehicles in
sufficient for decarbonisation given a growing India.
population, increasing motorisation rates, and
About BHARAT NCAP
growing vehicle sizes. Indeed, more efficient  Bharat NCAP is a Programme under which,
transport systems are essential for achieving a vehicles, particularly passenger cars, will
decarbonisation pathway in the transport sector. be subjected to rigorous crash testing
 Countries need to implement policies that reduce procedures.
transport demand. Modern communication  It will based on their performance as per
technologies are an important catalyser of protocols laid down in the soon-to-be-published
change in this area, for they enable optimised Automotive Industry Standard 197, they will
traffic routing and provide alternatives to travel, be assigned a safety rating ranging from one to
such as videoconferencing. five stars.
CURRENT DRISHTI (62) October, 2023
 The Program is applicable to type approved  The protected natural tiger corridor will increase
motor vehicles of M1 category less than 3.5T from Ramgarh Vishdhari- RTR-Dholpur to
GVW. Mukundra – the stretch would be around
 This is a voluntary program in which the base 4,000sq km.
variants of a given model shall be tested.  The number of tigers in Rajasthan has increased
 Program aims to create ecosystem of from 32 in 2006 to 88 in 2022.
competitive safety enhancements leading to Other Four Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan
increased awareness among consumers.  The other four tiger reserves in Rajasthan are –
Importance of BHARAT NCAP Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in Sawai
 
 BHARAT NCAP will also greatly push the Madhopur.
safety and quality of the vehicles in India, while Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar.
 
simultaneously promoting a healthy competition Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve in Kota.
 
among OEMs to manufacture safer vehicles. Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve in
 
 The new safety regime under BHARAT Bundi, which was added in May 2022.
NCAP and AIS-197 is a mutual win-win
About Tigers in India
for manufacturers and consumers and an
 The number of tigers in India has increased
instrumental step towards safeguarding lives of
from 2,967 in 2018 to 3,682 in 2022, an annual
our citizens.
rise of 6 per cent,
 It will help in making our Automobile Industry
 According to government data. With a 50 per
the number one auto manufacturing hub in the
cent increase in the last four years, Madhya
world.
Pradesh has the maximum number of tigers
National Tiger Conservation in the country (785), followed by Karnataka
(563), Uttarakhand (560), and Maharashtra
Authority (NTCA) Accords
(444).
Final Approval to Dholpur-
Karauli Tiger Reserve (DKTR) Urban River Management
Plans (URMPS) For 60 Cities
The Union ministry of environment, forest
and climate change has accorded the final approval The 50th meeting of the Executive Committee
to Rajasthan’s fifth Tiger Reserve in Dholpur- of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)
Karauli. was held ,where Seven projects worth around Rs.
Key Points 692 crore were approved.
 It is the country’s 54th tiger reserve. Key Points
 It is Rajasthan’s fifth tiger reserve.  Meeting Held on – 1 August,2023
 It is located in the Dholpur and Karauli district  Meeting Chaired by- DG, NMCG, Shri G.
of Rajasthan. Asok Kumar
Key Highlights Key Highlights
 The Union ministry of environment, forest and  Out of the seven projects, four pertain to
climate change also gave in-principle approval sewage management in Uttar Pradesh and
to declare Kumbhalgarh as a tiger reserve in Bihar.
Rajasthan.  For sewage management in Uttar Pradesh, 3
 Currently around 8-10 tigers are moving in projects worth Rs. 661.74 crore were approved
Dholpur-Karauli forest area. in the meeting.
October, 2023 (63) CURRENT DRISHTI
 These include creation of a 100 Million Litres  This project will be World Bank funded.
per Day (MLD) STP in Lucknow along with RCA which started from 30 members in 2021
Interception and Diversion (I&D) works under now has more than 140 members, including
Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM). international cities.
 Another project for I&D of balance discharge
of Dariyabad Pipalghat and Dariyabad India succeeds in reducing
Kakahraghat drains and construction of a emissions rate by 33% over 14
50 MLD STP in Prayagraj was approved.
years
 In a smaller project, a 6 MLD STP, I&D and
other works in Hapur was also approved to India’s greenhouse emissions rate dropped by
stop the flow of Hapur city drain into River a faster-than-expected 33% in 14 years as renewable
Kali, which is a tributary of River Ganga. energy generation rose and forest cover increased,
 Two STPs (5 and 7 MLDs) at an estimated cost according to two officials privy to latest assessment
of Rs. 74.64 crore for tapping of Pipra ghat made for submission to the United Nations.
drain and Chhatiya ghat drain respectively  India’s rate of emissions intensity - the total
along with I&D works was also approved in the amount of greenhouse gas emissions emitted
50th EC meeting for Raxaul town in Bihar.
for every unit increase of gross domestic
 This project will abate pollution in Sirsiya
product (GDP) - fell by 33% from 2005 to
River that originates in Nepal and enters
2019.
Bihar at Raxaul in East Champaran district.
 India’s average rate of reduction in emissions
Urban River Management Plans (URMPs) increased to 3% annually in the period 2016-
 In an important step for effective management 2019, from just about 1.5% in the period 2014-
of water in urban areas, a project envisaging 2016.
preparation of 60-70 Urban River Management
Plans (URMPs) in two phases has also been Commitment to the UNFCCC
approved costing around Rs 20 crore.  India’s dedication towards a sustainable future is
 During the first year, 25 URMPs shall be further underscored by its commitment to the
prepared and 35 URMPs shall be prepared United Nations Convention on Climate Change
during the second year. (UNFCCC).
 The first phase would cover 25 cities from 5  By 2030, the nation has pledged to reduce its
main stem Ganga basin states: Dehradun, emissions intensity by 45% from its 2005 levels.
Haridwar, Rishikesh, Haldwani & Nainital  The measures taken between 2016 and 2019,
in Uttarakhand; Lucknow, Varanasi, in particular, saw an impressive average annual
Agra, Saharanpur & Gorakhpur in Uttar emission reduction rate of 3%.
Pradesh; Patna, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnea
The Current Energy Scenario
and Katihar in Bihar; Ranchi, Adityapur,
 While strides are being made towards a greener
Medininagar, Giridih and Dhanbad in
Jharkhand and Asansol, Durgapur, Siliguri, future, fossil fuels still dominate India’s energy
Nabadwip and Howrah in West Bengal. mix. However, the nation is not solely reliant
 This project is part of the River-Cities Alliance on this form of energy. In the fiscal year that
(RCA) under Namami Gange, which concluded in March, non-fossil fuel-based
provides cities opportunities to cooperate, work power, which includes sources like hydro,
together, learn from each other’s best practices, nuclear, and renewables, contributed to 25.3%
share knowledge, thus paving the way for Gyan of India’s total power generation. Nevertheless,
Bhagidari, which will lead to transformational thermal power stations remain a dominant force,
solutions. supplying 73% of the consumed electricity.
CURRENT DRISHTI (64) October, 2023
 north lies the Arctic Ocean. Greenland is to the
Canada northeast with a shared border on Hans Island.
 Much of the Canadian Arctic is covered by ice
 Canada is a vast and rugged land. From north
and permafrost.
to south it spans more than half the Northern
 Canada has the longest coastline in the
Hemisphere.
world, with a total length of 243,042 kilometres
 From east to west it stretches almost 4,700 miles
(151,019 mi); additionally, its border with the
(7,560 kilometers) across six time zones.
United States is the world’s longest land border,
 It is the second largest country in the world,
stretching 8,891 kilometres (5,525 mi).
but it has only one-half of one percent of the  Three of Canada’s Arctic islands, Baffin Island,
world’s population. Victoria Island and Ellesmere Island, are among
 Canada sharing a land border with the the ten largest in the world.
contiguous United States to the south and the  Of Canada’s thirteen provinces and territories,
U.S. state of Alaska to the northwest. only two are landlocked (Alberta and
 Canada stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in Saskatchewan) while the other eleven all directly
the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west; to the border one of three oceans.

October, 2023 (65) CURRENT DRISHTI

Geographical Features of Canada  Canada also features many important rivers and
 The major land features in Canada shape the lakes.
Canadian landscape. There are several major  St. Lawrence Lowlands, is a physiographic
physical features including: region of Eastern Canada that comprises a
  Appalachian Mountains section of southern Ontario bounded on the
  Canadian Rockies north by the Canadian Shield and by 3 of the
Great Lakes — Lake Huron, Lake Erie and Lake
  Saint Elias Mountains
Ontario — and extends along the St. Lawrence
  Great Lakes
River to the Strait of Belle Isle and the Atlantic
  Canadian Shield
Ocean.
 The Appalachian Mountains extend in
  However, Lake Michigan is located entirely
Canada from Quebec northeastward to in the United States. The second largest
the Gaspé Peninsula and onto the island of lake in the world is Lake Superior, which is
Newfoundland. a major physical feature in Canada.
  The Appalachian Mountains also continue  The West Lowland includes the Niagara
southward into the United States through Escarpment, extending from the Niagara River
New England and onward into Virginia, to the Bruce Peninsula and Manitoulin Island.
Tennessee, and further into the south   The Central Lowland stretches between
along the eastern seaboard. the Ottawa River and the St. Lawrence
 The Canadian Rockies are found from River.
 The northeastern part of Alberta, northern
northern Alberta and British Columbia in
parts of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario
Canada and also extend south into the western
and Quebec, Baffin Island and significant
United States south to New Mexico.
bands through Somerset, Southampton, etc.
 The Saint Elias Mountains are a large
are located on a vast rock base known as the
mountain range along the Pacific coast of North Canadian Shield.
America and range from the border between   The Shield also encloses an area of wetlands
Canada in the Yukon Territory to Alaska. around the Hudson Bay. Some particular
  Mount Logan is located in the Saint Elias regions of the Shield are referred to as
Mountains and is the tallest mountain in mountain ranges, including the Torngat
Canada at 19,551 feet. and Laurentian Mountains.
Source D: Cross section showing the relative altitude of Canada’s major landforms

WESTERN CORDILLERA INTERIOR CANADIAN APPALACHIANS

LAWRENCE LOWLANDS

PLAINS SHIELD
GREAT LAKES ST.
Rocky Mountains
Interiro Plateaus
Columbia and

Manitoba Lowland
Saskatchewan Plain
Mountains

Alberta Plain
Coast

Pacific
Ocean Atlantic Ocean

CURRENT DRISHTI (66) October, 2023

 The Canadian Prairies (usually referred to  A significant milestone in this relationship
as simply the Prairies in Canada) is a region in occurred in April 2015 when the Prime Minister
Western Canada. of India visited Canada, elevating bilateral ties
  It includes the Canadian portion of the to a strategic partnership.
Great Plains and the Prairie Provinces,
Trade Relations
namely Alberta, Saskatchewan, and
 A priority market for Canada, in 2022, India
Manitoba. These provinces are partially
was Canada’s 9th largest trading partner.
covered by grasslands, plains, and lowlands,
 Major exported items from India to Canada
mostly in the southern regions.
 The Arctic and Hudson Bay lowlands are
include drug formulations and biologicals;
cold, flat plains underlain by permafrost that followed by products of iron and steel;
can only support tundra. The Arctic climate and articles of iron and steel in 2022.
frozen ground make development difficult and  Major India’s imports from Canada include coal,
agriculture impossible. coke, briquettes, etc; followed by fertilizers
manufactured, during in 2022.
Biomes of Canada
 The Ministers agreed to formally re-launch
 Canada’s major biomes are the tundra, boreal
the negotiations for India-Canada
forest, grassland, and temperate deciduous
forest. Comprehensive Economic Partnership
 British Columbia contains several smaller Agreement (CEPA) and also consider
biomes, including; mountain forest which an Interim Agreement or Early Progress
extends to Alberta, and a small temperate Trade Agreement (EPTA) that could bring
rainforest along the Pacific coast, the semi- early commercial gains to both countries.
arid desert located in the Okanagan and alpine  Since 2018, India has been the largest source
tundra in the higher mountainous regions. country for international students in Canada.
Economic Relations
 More than 600 Canadian companies and
organizations have established a presence
in India.
 Hundreds more are actively pursuing business
opportunities there. The bilateral commercial
relationships between the two countries
stand at US$100 billion, which includes US$70
billion of Canadian portfolio investment into
India.
 In 2020, Canadian direct investment in India
amounted to US$2 billion. Canadian portfolio
investment in India is estimated to have grown
India-Canada Relations more than 50% over the past five years, reaching
 India-Canada bilateral ties are underpinned about US$27 billion.
by shared values of democracy, pluralism,  As of March 2021, Canada invested nearly
expanding economic engagement, regular high US$ 24 million in 2018-2019 to support
level interactions and long-standing people-to- 75 projects in India via Grand Challenges
people ties. Canada.
October, 2023 (67) CURRENT DRISHTI
  The core of this favourable environment constitutes
Building Emotional Intelligence: Four key
emotional lessons. These emotional lessons are
skills to increasing your EQ
given to us through socialization by our parents,
The key skills for building your EQ and improving
teachers, peers etc., during our childhood or
your ability to manage emotions and connect with others adolescence. The result of which is what is called
are : as EQ.
1. Self-management  EQ is hence the relative measure of one’s healthy
2. Self-awareness or unhealthy development of innate EI. It is
3. Social awareness possible that two children with the same EI may
4. Relationship management have different EQ or vice-versa, depending upon
Emotional Intelligence Domains and Competencies the socialization experiences. However, it must
Self- Self- Social Relationship be clarified that either of them is not a numerical
Awareness management awareness management entity, like IQ.
Emotional  Emotional quotient is best inculcated from an early
Influence
self-control age by encouraging qualities like sharing, thinking
Empathy
Coach and about others, putting oneself in another person’s
Adaptability
Emotional mentor shoes, giving individual space and the general
self- Achievement Conflict principles of cooperation.
awareness orientation Organi- management  There are tools like toys and games available to
zational Teamwork increase emotional quotient, and children who do
Positive
awarenss Inspirational not do well in social settings are known to perform
outlook
leadership significantly better after taking SEL (Social and
Emotional Learning) classes.
Can Emotional Intelligence (EI) be
Developed? How Do You Become Emotionall y
 There are differing perspectives on the ability of Intelligent?
people to develop EI. Some researchers suggest The good news is that emotional intelligence can be
that emotional intelligence can be learned and learned and developed. As well as working on your
skills in the five areas above, use these strategies:
strengthened, while others claim it is an inborn
 Observe how you react to people. Do you rush
characteristic.
to judgment before you know all of the facts? Do
 In this context, some thinkers make distinction
you stereotype? Look honestly at how you think
between emotional intelligence (EI) and emotional
and interact with other people. Try to put yourself
quotient (EQ). in their place, and be more open and accepting of
 EI refers to innate potentiality, such that each their perspectives and needs.
individual is born with some innate potential for  Look at your work environment. Do you seek
emotional literacy and emotional learning ability, attention for your accomplishments? Humility
and this potential is realized only when he gets can be a wonderful quality, and it doesn’t mean
favourable environment. that you’re shy or lack self-confidence. When you
CURRENT DRISHTI (68) October, 2023
 practice humility, you say that you know what when they are under stress, or a leader who stays
you did, and you can be quietly confident about in control, and calmly assesses the situation?
it. Give others a chance to shine – put the focus  The more that you, as a leader, excel in each
on them, and don’t worry too much about getting of Goleman’s five key elements of Emotional
praise for yourself. Intelligence – self-awareness, self-regulation,
 Do a self-evaluation. Try out our emotional motivation, empathy, and social skills – the more
intelligence quiz. What are your weaknesses? effective as a leader you will be.
Are you willing to accept that you’re not perfect Importance of Emotional Intelligence
and that you could work on some areas to make Importance of Emotional Intelligence Concept in
yourself a better person? Have the courage to personal life :
look at yourself honestly – it can change your life.  Conflict resolution: Emotionally intelligent
 Examine how you react to stressful situations. person can handle difficult individuals, groups
Do you become upset every time there’s a delay of people, or tense situations with diplomacy
or something doesn’t happen the way you want? and tact. EI helps us to handle ‘fight’ or ‘flight’
Do you blame others or become angry at them, situation and find collaborative solutions.
even when it’s not their fault? The ability to stay  Mental health: It helps us to manage our
calm and in control in difficult situations is highly emotions, which means that we can manage our
valued – in the business world and outside it. stress. This keeps us protected against depression
Keep your emotions under control when things and anxiety. Also, emotionally intelligent person
go wrong. can handle pressure with ease.
 Take responsibility for your actions. If you  Decision making: Researchers agree that the
hurt someone’s feelings, apologize directly – don’t key to good decision is the combination of both
ignore what you did or avoid the person. People thinking and feeling in one’s decisions. Positive
are usually more willing to forgive and forget if mood and emotions help in better decision
you make an honest attempt to make things right. making.
 Examine how your actions will affect others –  Optimism: It helps to control our negative
before you take those actions. If your decision will
emotions and provide proper perspective of hope
impact others, put yourself in their place. How
and possibility.
will they feel if you do this? Would you want that
 Personal growth: It has been found through
experience? If you must take the action, how can
researches that emotionally intelligent people
you help others deal with the effects?
achieve better results in personal and professional
W hat is Emotional Intelligence in life. They are flexible enough to accept positive
Leadership? changes in their life.
 To be effective, leaders must have a solid  Motivation: Individuals with high emotional
understanding of how their emotions and actions intelligence are highly motivated and they can
affect the people around them. The better a easily adapt to work environment and navigate
leader relates to and works with others, the more through occasional failures.
successful he or she will be.  Differentiate between needs and wants: An
 Being an emotionally intelligent leader means you emotionally intelligent mind is able to differentiate
will be able to coach teams, manage stress, deliver between things that they need and things they
feedback, and collaborate with others more want.
effectively. Importance of Emotional Intelligence in
Why is Emotional Intelligence Important civil services/administration :
in Leadership?  Role clarity: Self-awareness about oneself
 For leaders, having Emotional Intelligence is reduces role ambiguity and intra-personal conflicts
essential for success. After all, who is more likely by enabling individuals to have clarity regarding
to succeed – a leader who shouts at their team their personal and professional goals.
October, 2023 (69) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Example: An emotionally intelligent civil
  Example: A civil servant high on emotional
 
servant would keep public interest above intelligence will be able to solve difficult
his/her personal interest and is less likely to issues such as IAS Office OP Choudhary
be involved in corruption. solved the problem of lack of availability of
 Self-regulation: Civil Servants that are skilled labour with education initiative ‘Choo
emotionally intelligent would regulate themselves Lo Aasman’.
and rarely verbally attack others, make rushed  Thus, EI plays an important role in effective
or emotional decisions, stereotype people, or handling of diverse challenge that Civil Servants
compromise their values. face. Even, the Daniel Goleman has said, “80% of
 Example: Because of self-regulation a Civil success at work depends on EI, while only 20%
Servant would have low greed and therefore depends on the IQ”.
low corruption, such as Ashok Khemka. Qualities of an Emotionally Intelligent
 Objectivity and impartiality: These are Administrator
foundational values of Civil Services and An emotionally intelligent administrator possesses
emotional intelligence concept would inculcate following qualities :
these values in a Civil Servant along with making  High self-regard: Good leaders know about
him/her apolitical in the time of politicization of their strength and capitalise on those strengths, as
bureaucracy. well as know their weaknesses and try to fill those
  Example: An emotionally intelligent civil gaps.
servant would ensure that his/her religion,   Example: Post-independence, Sardar
caste, race, political affiliation etc. does not Patel capitalised on his strengths for
influence his/her decision making. integration of Princely states into India.
 Motivation: EI helps a person in comprehending  Set an example: Emotionally intelligent
emotions of others, thus an emotionally intelligent administrator set their targets and get them done.
civil servant can motivate himself/herself and also By doing this, they set examples for others.
his/her subordinates towards a particular goal.   Example: Pankaj Jain, the district collector

of Katni in Madhya Pradesh could have sent
  Example: Prashant Nair, District collector
his daughter to a high-profile play school but
of Kozhikode started Compassionate
sent her to Aanganwadi for play-schooling.
Kozhikode, a volunteer-driven project to
 Inspire a shared vision: Emotionally intelligent
provide various public services.
leaders are able to establish a connection with the
 Better targeting of policies: Empathy is
masses with their communication and social skills.
essential to know emotions, moods and drives,
 Example: Former Prime Minister Mrs.
lifestyle, culture, problems, inabilities of people at
Indira Gandhi gave the slogan “GaribiHatao,
whom public policy is being targeted. DeshBachao” and recently the Prime
  Example: Armstrong Pame, understood the Minister has given the slogan “SabkaSath,
need of the people and enabled construction Sabka Vikaas”.
of 100 km Peoples’ road in a historically  Stay composed under pressure: Good leaders do
unconnected region using social donations not flare up and lose control in difficult situations.
and resources collected.  Example: President George W. Bush
  Example: Policies for differently-abled
 continued sitting with Florida school
persons, women, transgender persons etc. children even after being alerted about 9/11
 Social skills: Social skills of an emotionally attack. By not outwardly reacting, he bought
intelligent civil servant enables him/her to: himself space to think and time to react.
 Improve interpersonal and intergroup relationships  Maintain balance in life: An emotionally
by facilitating better communication within the intelligent administrator is able to manage his/
organisation and between the individuals to her own life well— including stress, home life,
Improve level of cooperation, trustworthiness fitness and diet. Then he/she can manage his/her
and commitment. professional life better.
CURRENT DRISHTI (70) October, 2023
   xample: Former US President Barack
E Challenges for Development of Emotional
Obama maintained a work-life balance— Intelligence in the Administration
spent his time with family, attended his  Although Emotional intelligence is an important
daughter’s parent-teacher conferences in aspect of administration but there have been
school etc. instances which show that there is lack of emotional
 Encourage others: Emotionally intelligent intelligence in the administrators such as Surajpur
administrators recognise the contributions of others.
(Chhattisgarh) District Collector Ranbir Sharma
Rewarding people for their contribution goes a
had slapped a boy who was outdoor during
long way in motivating them to be part of the team.
lockdown, instances of corruption, nepotism etc.
 Example: Recently a CISF personnel, who
Following are the hindrance to the development of
stopped a Bollywood star, was rewarded for
doing his duty. Emotional Intelligence in the administration :
 Dedication: Emotionally intelligent people are  Work pressure: There is excessive work pressure
able to find motivation towards their task and on the bureaucracy which leads to development
therefore are dedicated towards their task. of “do whatever it takes” approach. Example: An
 Improved communication: Emotionally army jawan was recently thrashed for not wearing
intelligent people are more confident and positive mask by Jharkhand police.
because of self-awareness and self-regulation and  Cultural gap: There is also cultural gap between
are able to better communicate and connect with the bureaucracy and public, which reduces the
others because of their social skills. empathy, understanding of the public among the
 Leadership: Emotionally Intelligent administrators bureaucracy and increases the communication
know how to work with others, use resources gap between them. Example: Issue of migrant
wisely, support and credit their people and are
workers during COVID-19 lockdown where police
able to lead from the front.
officers were mainly focused on implementation
 Example: IAS officer Bhupesh Chaudhary
of lockdown.
(Mizoram) utilised MGNREGS, Mission for
Integrated Development of Horticulture  Use of technology: Technology is being
and formed SHGs and cooperatives of increasingly used in the administration now.
farmers to increase the income of chilli However, technology lacks emotions and becomes
growing farmers by 14 times. a hindrance in emotional intelligence. Example:
 Selflessness: Because of empathy and social A girl, from Jharkhand died due to starvation
skills, emotionally intelligent administrators are because of denial of ration as the family’s ration
able to understand the problems of others and card was not linked with Aadhar card.
show selflessness.  Excessive anonymity and hierarchy: Anonymity
 Example: IAS officer, Nikunja Dhal is considered the strength of the bureaucracy.
serving as Secretary of Health and Family However, excessive anonymity and hierarchy
Welfare Department, Odisha resumed work might sometimes lead to lack of motivation for
merely 24hrs after his father’s death amid taking up responsibility. Example: A government
COVID-19 pandemic.
official can refuse to grant PDS benefits to a
 Adaptability: Emotionally intelligent
destitute (eligible but lacking required documents)
administrators, because of their calmness, control
by making an excuse over want of order from
over emotions etc. are able to adapt to different
and even challenging situations. higher officials.
  Example: IAS officer Smita Sabharwal  Lack of training: Indian bureaucracy is largely
adapted to the financial crunch and launched trained on the technical part of the task but
a campaign—Fund Your City—appealing to not on the emotional intelligence. Also, there is
residents to help her build the infrastructure reluctance/red tapism in changing the curriculum
of Naxal-affected areas. of training.
October, 2023 (71) CURRENT DRISHTI
 believed in Nationalism till WW1 in 1914-18. His
GS-1 belief in it started to waiver during the final phase
Q. What was the difference between Mahatma of the Swadeshi Movement when people started
Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in associating Nationalism with political extremism.
their approach towards education and  He believed the whole movement during
nationalism? (250 words) that time began to develop as revolutionary
A. Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, terrorism.
two prominent figures in Indian history. They  He supported Internationalism and ardently
shared a great deal of respect for one another. believed that Nationalism could do no good
Still, they also disagreed widely on a wide range other than destroy harmony and love.
of issues, including nationalism, patriotism,
Difference
the importance of reason and science, and the
 The difference between Mahatma Gandhi and
nature of economic and social growth.
Mahatma Gandhi on Nationalism Rabindranath Tagore on Nationalism is that
Gandhi believed that lingua franca (an adopted Mahatma Gandhi’s definition of Nationalism
common language between speakers of the various varied from European Nationalism. He saw
language) would play a major role in fostering the Nationalism as a broadly inclusive concept
feeling of Nationalism in the country. where no one should be seen as an enemy.
 Gandhi wished to develop an India-centric  On the other hand, for Rabindranath Tagore,
concept of Nationalism. One which is more Nationalism was a concept of Maya or Mirage,
rooted in Indian traditions and values rather and one should not persistently run after it. He
than being influenced by the west only believed in the concept of Nationalism
 He wanted to build harmony between till WW1 in 1914-18. Here, we have provided
conflicting binaries like individualism/ the difference between Rabindranath Tagore
collectivism and regionalism/nationalism/ and Mahatma Gandhi and other important
internationalism. related details.
 He believed it is not the idea of Nationalism In conclusion, while both Gandhi and Tagore
that is evil but other things that are associated aimed to improve education and promote
with it, like selfishness, exclusiveness, nationalism, their approaches differed significantly.
westernism, etc. Gandhi focused on practical skills and central
 As he mentioned in his book ‘Hind Swaraj’ guidance, while Tagore emphasized individual
the idea of Nationalism should ideally relate experience and holistic education. In terms of
to ‘Hind’ or ‘India.’ nationalism, Gandhi advocated for non-violence
Tagore on Nationalism and unity, whereas Tagore emphasized humanistic
Rabindranath Tagore believed imperialism was concerns and a synthesis of Eastern and Western
an external expression of Nationalism. Tagore ideas.
CURRENT DRISHTI (72) October, 2023
Q. How are the fjords formed? Why do they E.g. Milford Sound in Fiordland National
 
constitute some of the most picturesque Park is renowned for thriving marine life,
areas of the world? (250 words) including dolphins and penguins.
A. Fjords, famous for their breathtaking and  Adventure opportunities in fjord regions
serene views, are long and deep lakes extending contribute to their picturesque appeal. E.g.
to non-coastal areas. These geographical Example: Chile’s Torres del Paine National
features exist due to glacial activities spanning Park.
thousands of years.  The West Norwegian Fjords (Geirangerfjord
 Fjords (American pron. fyordz) are often and Nærøyfjord), a UNESCO world heritage
narrow and are surrounded by tall cliffs or site, are classic fjords known for their natural
mountains. They show a disparity of rocky beauty and pristine saltwater inlets.
cliffs and crystal-clear salty water!
GS-2
The following geological mechanisms were the
driving composition factors for fjords: Q. Who are entitled to receive free legal aid?
1. Gigantic glaciers cut valleys in U-shape Assess the role of the National Legal
during glacial periods, advancing fjord Services Authority(NALSA) in rendering
formation. free legal aid in India.
2. Glaciers and ice sheets are strong forces of A. As per Article 39A of the Indian Constitution,
erosion. When the glaciers were on the move, the state shall provide free legal aid to all.
they exerted immense pressure on the Articles 14 and 22(1) also make it obligatory
sediments. for the State to ensure equality before law
3. As climatic conditions began to change, the and a legal system which promotes justice on
glaciers started to retreat. a basis of equal opportunity to all. Legal aid
4. Melting of ice increased the seawater and led strives to ensure equal justice is made available
to the submergence of the earlier carved- to the poor, downtrodden and weaker sections
out valleys. of the society.
Thus, the waters are often salty, even though Who are Entitled to receive Free Legal Aid?
glaciers carry freshwater. The fjord ecosystem Under Section 12 of the Legal Ser vices
is somewhat similar to mangroves because both Authorities Act, 1987, the following category
contain brackish waters that support distinct persons are entitled to receive free legal aid:
marine biodiversity.  A member of a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled
Why do fjords constitute some of the most Tribe;
picturesque areas of the world?  A victim of trafficking in human beings
 The unique geology, panoramic sceneries, tall or begar as referred to in Article 23 of the
mountains, and peaceful water captivates all Constitution;
nature enthusiasts.  A woman or a child;
  Fjords are also home to many waterfalls,  A mentally ill or otherwise disabled person;
which are created by streams and rivers  A person under circumstances of undeserved
that cascade down the cliffs into the water want such as being a victim of a mass disaster,
below. E.g., Seven Sisters Waterfall in the ethnic violence, caste atrocity, flood, drought,
Geirangerfjord, Norway. earthquake or industrial disaster; or
 One can spot diverse biodiversity such  An industrial workman; or
as marine mammals and moraines, which  Persons whose annual income does not
enhances the geological wonders. Moreover, exceed Rs. 1 lakh (in the Supreme Court Legal
different seasons offer varied fjord experiences. Services Committee the limit is Rs. 5,00,000).
October, 2023 (73) CURRENT DRISHTI
The role of the National Legal Services communities justice is still a distant dream.
Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal Collaborative approach of government institutions
aid in India and civil society will help in bridging this gap.
 It lays down policies and principles for making Q. Discuss the role of the Competition
legal services available under the provisions Commission of India in containing the
of this Act. abuse of dominant position by the Multi-
 It frames the most effective and economical National Corporations in India. Refer to
schemes for the purpose of making legal the recent decisions.
services available under the provisions of this A. The Competition Commission of India (CCI)
Act. was established in 2003 under the Competition
 It takes necessary steps by way of social justice Act, 2002. It prohibits anti-competitive
litigation with regard to consumer protection, agreements, abuse of dominant position
environmental protection or any other matter by enterprises and regulates combinations
of special concern to the weaker sections of (acquisition, acquiring of control and M&A),
the society and for this purpose, give training which causes or likely to cause an appreciable
to social workers in legal skills. adverse effect on competition within India.
 It organises legal aid camps, especially in
The role of CCI in containing the abuse
rural areas, slums or labour colonies with
of dominant position by the Multi MNCs
the dual purpose of educating the weaker
in India
sections of the society as to their rights as
 To Prevent practices having adverse effect on
well as encouraging the settlement of disputes
competition.
through Lok Adalats.
 It undertakes and promote research in the  To Promote and sustain competition in markets.
field of legal services with special reference to  To Protect the interests of consumers and, to
the need for such services among the poor. Ensure freedom of trade carried on by other
 It monitors and evaluate implementation of participants in markets, in India.
the legal aid programmes at periodic intervals Based on this mandate, CCI has fined many
and provide for independent evaluation of MNCs in India who have been accused of
programmes and schemes implemented in abuse of dominant position in India
whole or in part by funds provided under this  Penalty of Rs. 1337 crores on Google –
Act. Google imposed discriminatory conditions
 It coordinates and monitor the functioning on sales or purchase & supplementary
of [State Authorities, District Authorities, obligations with mobile phone manufacturers.
Supreme  Penalty of Rs. 202 crores on Amazon by CCI
Court Legal Services Committee, High for not disclosing its interest in Future Retail
Court Legal Services Committees, Taluk while investing in Future Coupons.
Legal Services  Penalty of Rs 873 crores on three Beer
Committees and voluntary social service Companies for cartelisation in the sale and
institutions] and other legal services organisations supply of beer.
and give general directions for the proper Conclusion
implementation of the legal services programmes. CCI has been proactive to check anti-competitive
Conclusion practices of the MNCs and The 2023 amendment
Despite the persistent efforts of NALSA to the Competition Act has further expanded the
in providing free legal services to marginalized scope of CCI to check anti-competitive practices by
communities, for a large number of unprivileged MNCs.
CURRENT DRISHTI (74) October, 2023
 GS-3 territories, generally by upholding the National
law and depending against internal security
Q. Introduce the concept of Artificial threats.
Intelligence (AI). How does AI Help
Internal Security Challenges being faced
clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any by India
threat to privacy of the Individual in the  The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in
use of AI in health care? its annual report of 2021-22 highlighted
A. Artificial Intelligence is a computer based organised crimes on civilians, Left Wing
system that exhibits behaviour that is Extremism (LWE), Cross Border Terrorism in
commonly thought of as requiring intelligence Jammu and Kashmir, militancy in the North-
AI is the science of making machines do East and Drugs and Narcotics Trafficking,
things that would require intelligence, if done as formidable challenges to the country's
by man. It help us in many fields like­: Internal Security.
 Internal Security Challenges
AI Help in Clinical Diagnosis
 Insurgency in the North-Eastern States
 AI algorithms analyze medical or clinical
 Cross Border Terrorism
images (e.g.—X-rays, MRIs, CT Scan, Ultra
 Drugs and Narcotic Trafficking
sounds) and assist healthcare providers in  Demand of Separate land and states
Identifying and diagnosing diseases more  Left-Wing Extremism
accurately and quickly. AI can analyze  Cyber Security Threats
large amounts of patients data, including
Role of Central Intelligence and Investigative
medical 2D/3D imaging, bio-signals (Eg.—
Agencies to counter such threats
ECG, EEG, EHR), vital signs (Eg.—Body  Government of India have appointed and
Temperature, Pulse rate, Blood Pressure), constituted various agencies and organisations
demographic information, medical history to counter the threat of internal security.
and Laboratory test result. Important agencies are :
Privacy Threats in the use of AI in Healthcare 1. NIA—NIA is the Central Counter-Terrorism
 AI systems rely on vast data to train algorithms Law Enforcement Agency of India mandated
and improve performance so collection and to investigated all the offenses affecting the
processing of such data raises concerns. There sovereignty, security and integrity of India.
2. Intelligence Bureau (IB)—It collects
is many threat to privacy in AI Healthcare
and analyzes intelligence related to Internal
like—Cyber Attacks, Data Security risk
Security Threats.
(Exploitation) etc.
3. RAW—It works for covert operations and
There is much excitement about the benefits that Counter Terrorism Efforts.
AI can bring into health care. Protecting data privacy 4. CBI—It handles cases of corruption, economic
is an important component in ensuring the long offenses and cases with National Importance.
term use and success of these AI product without
National Cyber Security Agency
Patient Trust and Protecting Patient data privacy,
 It addresses Cyber Security threats and
such advances may be short lived.
vulnerabilities that many disturb internal
Q. What are the internal security challenges security.
being faced by India? Give out the role India's Internal Security challenges are diverse
of Central Intelligence and Investigative and requiring a multi-Dimensional approach. Central
Agencies tasked to counter such threats. Intelligence and Investigative agencies are working
A. Internal Security—Internal Security is the very professionally to tackle these threats. Effective
act of keeping Peace within the borders of utilisation of multi-agency center will help in to
a sovereign state or other self-governing counter such threats.
October, 2023 (75) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Rafael Nadal
Persons in News
 Bengaluru-based tech-giant Infosys
S. Krishnan signed Spanish tennis legend as its
 He will be the new Electronics ambassador for a three-year period
and Information Technology (August 24, 2023)
Ministry (Meity) Secretary (August  Nadal’s first collaboration with the company
30, 2023) will be in the development of an AI-powered
 He is a 1989 batch Indian Administrative match analysis tool.
Service (IAS) of the Tamil Nadu cadre, is Sanjeev Kapoor
currently serving as Chief Secretary in the  Indian Oil proudly announced
Industries, Investment, Promotion, and its collaboration with renowned
Commerce Department in the State. Celebrity chef as brand
Neeraj Mittal ambassador for Indane XTRATEJ
 He will take charge as the new Tele- LPG. (August, 2023)
com Secretary in the Department  This new offering aims to provide a cost-efficient
of Telecommunication. (August 30, solution that not only meets the requirements of
2023) various segments such as hotels and hospitality
 Mittal is a 1992-batch IAS officer. To date, but also addresses the growing expectations of
he has been Additional Chief Secretary to customers in an era of rapid change.
the Government, Secretariat, Information Umesh Revankar
Technology, and Digital Services Department,  The Finance Industry
Tamil Nadu. Development Council (FIDC)
Iga Swiatek has appointed him as its
 Infosys, a global leader in chairman. (August, 2023)
consulting and digital services,  He currently holds the position
has announced a multi-year of executive vice chairman for Shriram Finance
partnership with women’s tennis and brings with him decades of experience and
World No. 1, Iga Swiatek. (August expertise in the financial services industry.
25, 2023) Geetika Srivastava
 Infosys will now work closely with Swiateks  She will becomes first woman to
team to build an advanced data analytics and lead Indian mission in Pakistan.
video dashboard by leveraging AI to amplify her (August 2023)
training and help rapidly evolve her strengths  Currently serving as joint secretary
and match strategy through continuous learning. at the headquarters of the Ministry of External
CURRENT DRISHTI (76) October, 2023
 Affairs (MEA), will be India’s new chargé  He was appointed as the Chief Justice of the
d’affaires at its high commission in Islamabad. Calcutta high court in October, 2021. He was
 She is a 2005 batch Indian Foreign Service retired from there in March 2023.
officer, is currently serving as a joint secretary
Sachin Tendulkar
in the MEA’s Indo-Pacific division.
 Legendary Cricketer declared
Jaya Verma Sinha as National Icon of Election
 The government appointed her Commission of India. (August 23,
as the first woman Chairperson 2023)
of the Railway Board, the top  He has been declared as National Icon to create
decision-making body for the awareness among voters and encourage their
Ministry of Railways. (August, 2023) participation in the electoral process.
 She is the first ever woman to head the Board  During the event, a Memorandum of
in its 118-year-old history. The Railway Board Understanding has been signed with Sachin
came into effect in 1905. Tendulkar for three years.
 Her tenure will be till August 31, 2024.
Srettha Thavisin
N.V. Ramana  He become prime minister of
 Former CJI appointed member of Thailand. (August 22, 2023)
international mediator panel of  The real estate mogul won the
SIMC.(August, 2023) backing of both the upper and
 The Singapore International lower houses to become the country’s 30th
Mediation Centre (SIMC) is a not- prime minister.
for-profit organisation that offers professional  He represents Pheu Thai party.
dispute resolution services tailored to the
Khuon Sudary
evolving needs of businesses in Asia.
 SIMC work across multiple jurisdictions  She has become Cambodia’s
covering both common and civil law traditions. parliament first woman president.
(August, 2023)
Mahindra Singh Dhoni  She will take office as the president
 The chairman of the Mahindra of the National Assembly of Cambodia in the
Group, Anand Mahindra, has now new five-year-term.
roped in the World Cup-winning  The new-term National Assembly and government
skipper as a brand ambassador of formed on Aug 21 and Aug 22, respectively.
his Swaraj Tractors. (August 31, 2023)
Vakkom Purushothaman
 Swaraj Tractors, a company owned by Mahindra
& Mahindra Ltd.  Veteran Congress leader and
former Kerala Speaker also
Justice Prakash Shrivastava served as Governor of Mizoram,
 Former Chief Justice of the Calcutta passed away at a private hospital
high court has been appointed as at the age of 96. (July 31, 2023)
NGT chairperson. (August 21, 2023)  He was a cabinet minister in the Kerala
 Earlier, Justice Shiv Kumar Singh government from 1971-1977, 1980 to 1981 and
was appointed as the executive chairperson 2004 to 2006.
after the retirement of the then NGT Chairman  He was the Speaker of the Kerala legislative
Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel in July. assembly from 1982-1984 and then 2001-2004.
October, 2023 (77) CURRENT DRISHTI
Shivendra Nath  This is his second extension on the post. He
 He has been chosen as the was given a one-year extension in August 2022.
upcoming Chairman & Managing Justice Subhasis Talapatra
Director (CMD) of Engineering  He sworn in as 33rd Chief Justice
Projects (India) Ltd.(july,2023) of Orissa High Court. (August 7,
 Currently serving as the Senior General Manager 2023)
at Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL),  Odisha Governor Professor
a prominent PSU under the Department of Ganeshi Lal administered the oath to office
Telecommunications. to the new chief justice in a ceremony on the
G. Kannabiran Orissa High Court premises.
 Justice Talapatra succeeded Justice Muralidhar
 Founding director of IIIT Sri City,
takes over as NAAC director. (July, as the new chief justice of the Orissa High Court.
2023) Sanjay Kumar Agarwal
 He assumed charge on July 28,  IRS officer Sanjay Kumar Agarwal
2023 and will hold the post for five years. has taken charge as the Chairman
 He has served as dean of research and of the Central Board of Indirect
consultancy and has been director in-charge at Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
NIT. (August 5, 2023)
Puneet Chandok  He succeeds Vivek Johri who superannuated as
CBIC chief on May 31, 2023.
 Microsoft appointed him as
Corporate Vice President of Amit Jhingran
Microsoft India and South Asia.  The Insurance Regulatory and
(August 1, 2023) Development Authority of India
 On September 1, 2023, he will approved the appointment of Amit
assume the operational responsibilities from Jhingran as managing director and
Anant Maheshwari. chief executive officer. (August 7, 2023)
 Supported by a strong leadership team, he will  He joined the State Bank of India as a
oversee the integration of Microsoft’s businesses probationary officer in August 1991.
across South Asia, including Bangladesh,  He has worked with SBI for almost 30 years and
Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. has held numerous positions in foreign banking,
 Further boosting the company’s presence in retail banking, and branch management.
the region, while deepening its focus on key Kareena Kapoor Khan
industries through a customer-centric approach  Bollywood actress has signed on as
with generative AI at its core. an investor and brand ambassador
Rajiv Gauba of Pluckk, which is engaged in the
fresh fruit and vegetables business.
 The central government has given
(August, 2023)
a one-year extension to Cabinet  Founded in July 2021, Pluckk has rapidly
Secretary according to a Personnel emerged as a digital leader in the lifestyle-
Ministry order. (August, 2023) oriented fresh produce market.
 The former Union Home Secretary, was in 2019  Co-founded by Pratik Gupta and backed by seed
appointed to the country’s top bureaucratic post funding from Exponentia Ventures, the brand
for two years. currently operates in Bengaluru and Mumbai.
CURRENT DRISHTI (78) October, 2023
R. Doraiswamy  Born in Palaskhed near Ajanta caves, he grew
 The government had appointed R. up to be a nature poet, lyricist, farmer, MLC and
Doraiswamy as the managing director also reached the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest
of Life Insurance Corporation of civilian award.
India (LIC). (August, 2023) William Friedkin
 He has been appointed as managing director of  He , who won the best director Oscar
LIC in place of Mini Ipe with effect from the for “The French Connection,” died
date of assumption of charge of office on or in Los Angeles at the age of 87.
after September 1, 2023, and up to the date of (August 7, 2023)
his superannuation August 31, 2026.  He began his career in documentaries in the
Kamlesh Varshney and Amarjeet Singh early 1960s and made his feature directorial
 The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet debut with the film “Good Times” in 1967.
(ACC) has approved the appointment of  His 1971 film “The French Connection”, a
Kamlesh Varshney and Amarjeet Singh as SEBI crime thriller, won 5 Oscars including Best
Whole-Time Members. ( August, 2023) Picture, and Best Director for Friedki at the 44th
 While Varshney, a 1990-batch Oscars (1972).
officer of the Indian Revenue Bikash Sinha
Service, is a joint secretary at
 Renowned nuclear physicist dies at
the revenue department in
the Finance Ministry. 78 in Kolkata. (August, 2023)
 Amarjeet Singh is an executive director at the  A recipient of Padma Shri in 2001
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). and Padma Bhusan in 2010, he
 Both have been appointed for three years from was the former director of the Saha Institute of
the date of assumption of charge or until Nuclear Physics and Variable Energy Cyclotron
further orders, whichever is earlier, according to Centre.
an order issued by the Secretariat of the ACC. Mylswamy Annadurai
Parminder Chopra  SS Innovations, India’s home-
 Power Finance Corporation grown surgical robotic firm has
(PFC) has appointed her as announced the on-boarding
Chairman and Managing Director of Padmashri Dr. Mylswamy
(CMD). Annadurai.(August 29, 2023)
 She becomes the first woman to  He is popularly known as the ‘Moon Man of
lead India’s largest NBFC. India’. As a Director on its Board of Directors
 She assumed the top job at the power sector
in both the Indian entity, SS Innovations
lender with effect from August 14, 2023.
Private Limited as well as in the global entity, SS
 She earlier held additional charge as CMD from
Innovations International.
June 1, and was Director (Finance) from July 1,
2020. M.R. Satyanarayana Rao
Namdeo Dhondo Mahanor  Padma Shri awardee and former
 Noted litterateur and Padma Shri President of Jawaharlal Nehru
awardee known as Maharashtra’s Centre for Advanced Scientific
‘nature poet’, passed away at the Research (JNCASR passed away in
age of 80. (August 3, 2023) Bengaluru at the age of 75. (August 13, 2023)
October, 2023 (79) CURRENT DRISHTI
 During his long professional career, he served as  The President of Greece, Katerina
Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, Sakellaropoulou conferred PM Narendra Modi
Chairman, Centre for Genetic Engineering and with The Grand Cross of the Order of Honour.
Department of Biochemistry, IISc.  The Order of Honour was established in 1975.
 He got his PhD from the Indian Institute of   The head of goddess Athena is depicted
Science and did his Postdoctoral Research at Baylor on the front side of the Star with the
College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA. inscription “ONLY THE RIGHTEOUS
SHOULD BE HONOURED”.
Places in News  The honour is conferred by the President

Kalka-Shimla railway line of Greece to Prime Ministers and eminent

personalities who by reason of their
 Heavy rain and floods in Himachal Pradesh
distinguished position, have contributed to
have battered the 94-km-long Kalka-Shimla enhancing the stature of Greece.
railway line, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.(
August, 2023) National Award for e-Governance 2023
 The back-to-back floods, first in July and then  Date – August 25, 2023
in August, has led to stoppage of services along  Awarded to- SVAMITVA (Survey of
the route. Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised
Triton Island Technology in Village Areas) Scheme of
Ministry of Panchayati Raj
 Triton Island is the westernmost and
 Awarded by- Department of Administrative
southernmost of the Paracel Islands in the
Reforms and Public Grievances, Govt. Of India
South China Sea.( August2023)
 Awarded for- Application of Emerging
 Satellite images show new construction by
Technologies for Providing Citizen Centric
China on a disputed island that is also claimed
by two of its neighbors, adding to tensions with Services
the U.S. and others in the South China Sea.  SVAMITVA Scheme of Ministry of Panchayati
Raj has been conferred with the prestigious
Bhagat Bridge National Award for e-Governance 2023 (Gold).
 Indian Army has dedicated a 115-feet bridge  The scheme is awarded at the 26th National
to the villagers of last village Danna on Line Conference on e-Governance (NCeG)
of Control in Kupwara district, Jammu and organized by the Department of Administrative
Kashmir.( 15 August2023) Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG),
 The bridge has been named as Bhagat Bridge GoI.
in memory of Late Major Bhagat Singh, Veer  The 26th National Conference on e-Governance
Chakra, who laid down his life defending this (NCeG) was organized on August 25, 2023 in
sector in 1965 war. Danna is also known as Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Bhagat village.
‘Rising Global Superstar of Indian Cinema’
Awards Award, 2023
 Date- August , 2023
PM OF India conferred with the Grand  Place- Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
Cross of the Order of Honour by Greece (IFFM), Australia
 Date- August ,2023   Winner - KartikArayan
 Honoured to- Prime Minister of India Shri  The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM)
Narendra Modi is the largest annual celebration of Indian
 Honoured by- President of Greece cinema outside of India.
CURRENT DRISHTI (80) October, 2023
 14th Edition of Indian Film Festival of conferred to eminent people, the Maharashtra
Melbourne was held from August 11-20, 2023 government decided to initiate the prestigious
in Australia. Udyog Ratna Award from this year onward.
Exercise Talisman Sabre, 2023 JIMEX 2023
 Exercise Talisman Sabre is conducted biennially.  The seventh edition of the bilateral Japan-
 It is the largest combined training activity India Maritime Exercise 2023 (JIMEX 23) is
between the Australian Defence Force and the conducted at/ off Visakhapatnam from 05 -10
United States military. July 2023.
 Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 (TS23) was held  This edition marks the 11th anniversary of
from July 22 to August 4. 2023 in Australia,and JIMEX, since its inception in 2012.
was the 10th and largest iteration of the exercise.  JIMEX 23 will witness the participation of
 More than 30,000 military personnel from 13 INS Delhi, India’s first indigenously built
nations directly participated in TS23, with Guided Missile Destroyer, INS Kamorta, an
others attending the exercise as observers. indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine
 Fiji, France, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Warfare Corvette and fleet tanker INS Shakti
Korea, New Zealand Papua New Guinea, etc.
Tonga, the United Kingdom, Canada and SALVEX, 2023
Germany was attended as participants.
 The 7th edition of Indian Navy – US Navy (IN –
 The India, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand
USN) Salvage and Explosive Ordnance Disposal
was also attended as observers to the exercise.
(EOD) exercise, SALVEX was conducted from
Miles Franklin Literary Award 2023 26 Jun – 06 Jul 23 at Kochi, Kerala.
 Date - July, 2023  IN and USN have been participating in joint
 Place - Australia Salvage and EOD exercises since 2005.
  Winner - Shankari Chandran  The exercise saw participation from both
 The Miles Franklin Literary Award 2023 was the navies which included the ships – INS
given to Shankari Chandra for her novel ‘Chai Nireekshak and USNS Salvor.
Time at Cinnamon Garden’. Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour:
 Shankari Chandran is Sri Lankan - origin The highest award in France
Australian writer.
 Date- July 13, 2023
 The Miles Franklin Literary Award is an annual
 Awarded to- The Prime Minister Narendra
prize given to “a novel which is of the highest
Modi
literary merit and presents Australian life in any
 Awarded by- France
of its phases”.
 French President Emmanuel Macron conferred
Udyog Ratna Award, 2023 his country’s highest honour, the Grand Cross
 Announced in- July, 2023 of the Legion of Honour, upon Prime Minister
 Announced by- Maharashtra Government Narendra Modi.
 To be given- Tata group Chairman Ratan Tata  The honour normally recognises the
 The Maharashtra Government will confer contribution of the French people in the
Tata group Chairman Ratan Tata with the first “service of the nation”.
prestigious Maharashtra Udyog Ratna Award   Foreigners are honoured for their support
this year. to France, and the award is sometimes
 On the lines of Maharashtra Bhushan award, conferred upon high dignitaries on a state
which is the state’s highest award, that is visit to France.
October, 2023 (81) CURRENT DRISHTI
 The National Order of the Legion of Honour, LIC
or simply The Legion of Honour is the highest  Why in the news - R. Doraiswamy was
French decoration, both civil and military, and is
appointed Managing Director of LIC by the
one of the most famous national honours in the
Central Government. Duraiswami to Life
world.
Insurance Corporation of India. R. Doraiswamy
 The Order was established by Napoleon
assumed charge on September 1, 2023, And
Bonaparte in 1802, and has been presented for
more than the past two centuries on behalf of will continue to hold his post till August 31,
the French Head of State to its most deserving 2026, or until further orders. Financial Services
citizens in all fields of activity. Institutions Bureau (FSIB) in June 2023
  The motto of the Order is Honneur et  Life Insurance Corporation of India -It is an
Patrie, French for Honour and Fatherland. Indian multinational public sector life insurance
company.
Organisations  The Parliament of India passed the Life
Insurance Corporation Act on the 19th of June
NGT
1956, and the Life Insurance Corporation of
 Why in the news -August 23, 2023, Justice
India was created on 1st of September, 1956,
Prakash Srivastava, former Chief Justice of the
with the objective of spreading life insurance
Calcutta High Court, took over as the Chairman
much more widely and in particular to the rural
of the National Green Tribunal (NGT)Justice
areas with a view to reach all insurable persons in
Prakash Srivastava succeeded Justice Shiv
the country, providing them adequate financial
Kumar Singh, Chairperson of the NGT.
cover at a reasonable cost.
 National Green Tribunal (NGT): A National
 The headquarters is in Mumbai.
Green Tribunal has been established in India
by the National Green Authorities Act, 2010. Sulabh International
It is a special environmental court, that hears  Why in the news -Sulabh International
cases related to environmental protection and founder, Padma Bhushan recipient and social
the conservation of forests. activist Bindeshwar Pathak passed away on
Power Finance Corporation August 15, 2023
 Why in the news-Parminder Chopra was  Sulabh International-Bindeshwar Pathak
appointed as the Chairman and Managing started the Sulabh Movement in 1970 and
Director of Power Finance Corporation. His worked to eliminate the practice of manual
appointment became effective on August 14, scavenging and spread awareness on cleanliness.
2023. In the year 1974, the first accessible public toilet
 Power Finance Corporation (PFC): It is a was opened to the public in Patna.
Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the
administrative control of the Ministry of Power; Conference & Summit
It is also registered as a ‘Systemically Important
G20 Empower Summit
Non-Banking Financial Company’ (SI-NBFC)
under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).  Date - August 1-2, 2023
 It provides funding and financial assistance for  Venue - Gandhinagar, Gujarat
various power and energy related projects. It  Theme-“Women-Led Development: ensuring
was established in 1986. In the year 2021, it was a sustainable, inclusive, and equitable global
given the status of Maharatna company economic growth
CURRENT DRISHTI (82) October, 2023
Think 20 summit  Countries - Brazil, Russia, India, China and
 Date - July 31 - August 2, 2023 South Africa
 Venue - Mysuru, Karnataka  India was represented by- Prime Minister
 Organized by - Observer Research Foundation Narendra Modi
(ORF) as Think20 Secretariat 5th meeting of India-Vietnam Joint Trade
51st meeting of the GST Council Sub-Commission (JTSC)
 Date - August 2, 2023  Date - August 7-8, 2023
 Venue - New Delhi  Venue - New Delhi
 It was held via virtual mode under the Amazon Summit
chairpersonship of the Union Finance &  Date - August 8-9, 2023
Corporate Affairs Minister Smt. Nirmala  Venue - Belem, Brazil
Sitharaman.  8 Amazon nations have agreed on a list of
 The meeting was also attended by Union
unified environmental policies.
Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj  These 8 nations are – Bolivia, Brazil,
Choudhary besides Finance Ministers of States Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname
& UTs (with legislature) and senior officers of and Venezuela
the Ministry of Finance & States/ UTs.
2nd edition of India Startup Festival 2023
Conference on Ukraine’s peace plan
 Date - August 10-12, 2023
 Date - August 5-6, 2023
 Venue - Bengaluru, Karnataka
 Venue - Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
 Organized by - Indian Startup Foundation
 Hosted by- Crown Prince Mohammed bin
Salman 53rd National Planning Group (NPG)
meeting
‘Digital India RISC-V Symposium
 Date - August 9. 2023
 Date - August 6, 2023
 Venue - New Delhi
 Venue - Chennai, Tamil Nadu
 This meeting was held under PM GatiShakti
 Organized by - IIT Madras and IIT-M
Pravartak Technologies Foundation 4th National Conference of the Pharma-
ceutical Electronic Resources in Medicine
The Youth 20 (Y20) Summit
(ERMED) Consortium
 Date - August 17-20, 2023
 Date - August 11, 2023
 Venue - Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
 Venue - New Delhi
 Central themes of the conference- Industry
4.0, Innovation and 21st Century Skills, 3rd National Conference on “ERMED
Peacebuilding and Reconciliation: Ushering in Consortium: Digital Health Resources: A
an Era Without War, and Climate Change and reality
Disaster Risk Reduction  Date - August 12, 2023
 Organized by - Ministry of Youth Affairs and  Venue - New Delhi
Sports The first Traditional Medicine Global
15 BRICS Summit 2023
th
Summit
 Date - August 22-24, 2023  Date - August 17-18, 2023
 Venue - Johannesburg South Africa  Venue - Gandhi Nagar Gujarat

October, 2023 (83) CURRENT DRISHTI

 Organized by - Jointly World Health 26th National Conference on e-Governance
Organization and the Ministry of AYUSH  Date - August 24-25, 2023
1 ‘India MedTech Expo 2023’
st
 Venue - Indore, Madhya Pradesh

 Date - August 17-19, 2023  National e-Governance Awards 2023 in 5

 Venue - Gandhinagar Gujarat categories will also be presented during the

 Organized by - Department of Pharmaceuticals, conference.
the Government of India  Organized by - the Department of Adminis-

 Industry Partner for the Expo - FICCI trative Reforms and Public Grievances and the
Ministry of Electronics and Information Tech-
The 9th Commonwealth Parliamentary As-
nology in collaboration with the Government
sociation (CPA) India Region Conference
of Madhya Pradesh
 Date - August 21-22, 2023
B20 Summit India 2023
 Venue - Udaipur, Rajasthan
 The conference was inaugurated by - Lok  Date - August 25-27, 2023

Sabha Speaker Om Birla  Venue - New Delhi

 Theme – Strengthening Democracy and Good  Theme - Responsible, Accelerated, Innovative,

Governance in the Digital Age’. Sustainable & Equitable (R.A.I.S.E) Businesses

Joint meeting of finance and health The first standalone trilateral summit
ministers of G20 member countries  Date - August 18, 2023
 Venue - Camp David, USA
 Date - August 19, 2023
 Participants-USA, Japan, and South Korea
 Venue - Gandhinagar, Gujarat
 The meeting was co-chaired by - Union
B20 Summit India 2023
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Health Important Days
Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and WHO
Director-General TedrosAdhanonGhebreyesus World Lung Cancer Day
16th International Olympiad on Astronomy  World Lung Cancer Day is observed on August
and Astrophysics (IOAA) 1st annually.
 Date - August 10-20, 2023  It is observed to raise awareness about the risks,

 Venue - Chorzow, Poland prevention, and early detection of lung cancer,

while also providing support to those affected
A roundtable on “Enhancing Health
by the disease.
Workforce Training and Skill Pathways
 it has been observed on this day since 2012.
 Date - August 21, 2023  It was first observed to break the stigma
 Venue - New Delhi associated with the deadly disease and to
 With foru Gold & One Silver Metals India has
encourage more research into it.
secured second rank at the IOAA. The United
Kingdom clinched the lead with five golds.
World Wide Web Day
 Organised by - The Ministry of Skill  World Wide Web Day is observed on August
Development and Entrepreneurship, 1st annually.
Government of India, in collaboration with the  The day is observed to commemorate the World
Australian Government Wide Web (www) and its impact on the world.
CURRENT DRISHTI (84) October, 2023
 It was on August 1 ,1991 that Tim Berners- National Congress on August 8, 1942, at
Lee posted a proposal for the World Wide Gowalia Tank Maidan also known as August
Web on the alt. hypertext newsgroup; this day KrantiMaidan in Bombay.
is, therefore, celebrated with great importance  On this day, August 8th, 1942, Gandhi gave the
every year. famous “Do or Die” speech, urging the Indian
 The year 1989 marked the beginning of the people to act decisively and nonviolently against
Internet. From that point forward, it has British rule.
continued to evolve.
Nagasaki Day
Cloves Syndrome Awareness Day
 Nagasaki Day is observed on August 9st annually
 Cloves Syndrome Awareness Dayis observed  On August 9, 1945 the second nuclear weapon,
on August 3rdannually appropriately named ‘Fat Man,’ was dropped on
 It is observed to Raise awareness and support the city, barely three days after Hiroshima was
those affected by Cloves Syndrome. ravaged by the first atomic bomb, ‘Little Boy.’
 Theme-Fostering Unity, Empathy, and Hope
International Day of the World’s
Together.
Indigenous Peoples
Hiroshima Day
 International Day of the World’s Indigenous
 Hiroshima Day is observed on August 6th
Peoples is observed on August 9st annually
annually.
 He International Day of the World’s
 On August 6, 1945, during World War II (1939-
Indigenous Peoples, chosen in recognition of
45), an American B-29 bomber dropped the
the first meeting of the UN Working Group on
world’s first deployed atomic bomb ‘Little Boy’
Indigenous Populations held in Geneva in 1982.
over the Japanese city of Hiroshima.
 Theme - Indigenous youth as agents of change
National Handloom Day for self-determination
 Nation Handloom Day is observed on August7th World Lion Day
annually
 World Lion Day is observed on August 10th
 Swadeshi Movement which was launched on
annually
7th August 1905 had encouraged indigenous
 Big Cat Rescue, the world’s largest accredited
industries and in particular handloom weavers.
 In 2015, the Government of India decided to lion sanctuary, established World Lion Day in
designate the 7th of August every year, as the 2013.
National Handloom Day. World Biofuel Day
 The first National Handloom Day was
 World Biofuel Day is observed on August 10th
inaugurated on 7 August 2015 by Prime Minister
annually
Narendra Modi in Chennai.
 This day is observed in honor of Sir Rudolf
Quit India Movement Day Diesel.
 Quit India Movement Dayis observed on  Theme - ‘Biofuels fuels for a sustainable future’.
August8thannually.  He was the inventor of the diesel engine and was
 The Quit India Movement, also known as the the first to predict the possibility of vegetable
August Movement or Bharat ChodoAndolan, oil replacing fossil fuels
was a significant civil disobedience movement  The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has
launched by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian been celebrating the day since 2015.
October, 2023 (85) CURRENT DRISHTI
International Youth Day  On August 15, 2023, India celebrated its
 International Youth Day is observed on August 77th Independence Day, marking 76 years of
12thannually freedom.
 In December 2009, the United Nations World Humanitarian Day
General Assembly adopted resolution 64/134  World Humanitarian Day is observed on
proclaiming the year commencing 12 August August 19th annually.
2010 as the International Year of Youth  On August 19, 2003, a bomb attack on the
 Theme : ‘Green Skills for Youth: Towards a
Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22
Sustainable World’ humanitarian aid workers, including the UN
World Elephant Day Special Representative of the Secretary-General
 World elephant Day is observed on August for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello.
12th annually  Five years later, the United Nations General
 On August 12, 2012, the inaugural World Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19
Elephant Day was launched to bring attention August as World Humanitarian Day (WHD).
to the urgent plight of Asian and African  Theme - No matter what
elephants. World Mosquito Day
 Theme - “Ending the Illegal Wildlife Trade”
 World Mosquito Day is observed on August
World Organ Donation Day 20th annually.
 World Organ Donation Dayis observed on  On August 20, 1897, a British doctor made a
August 13th annually. groundbreaking discovery.
 It is observed to raise awareness about the  Sir Ronald Ross found that female Anopheles
importance of organ donation and to make mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans.
people aware of the misconceptions of organ  The parasite was located in the mosquito’s
donation stomach.
 Theme - Step up to volunteer; need more organ Sadbhavna Diwas
donors to fill the lacunae
 Sadbhavna Divas is observed on August 20th
World Photography Day annually.
 World Photography Dayis observed on  It is observed every year to commemorate the
August 19th annually birth anniversary of former Prime Minister
 World Photography Day originated on 19 Rajiv Gandhi.
August 1839, when the French Academy of  August 20, 2023, marks the 79th birth
Sciences made the announcement of the anniversary of India’s Former Prime Minister
daguerreotype process to the public Rajiv Gandhi.
 Theme - “LANDSCAPES”  This day is observed as ‘SadbhavanaDiwas’ or

Independence Day in India Harmony Day’ with the objective to encourage

national integration, peace, affection, and
 Independence Day in India is observed on
communal harmony among the Indian people
August 15th annually. of all religions
 It was on 15th August 1947 that India was
declared independent from British colonialism, Indian AkshayUrja Day
and the reins of control were handed over to  Indian AkshayUrja Dayis observed on August
the leaders of the Country. 20th annually.
CURRENT DRISHTI (86) October, 2023
 It is a campaign that is observed since 2004.  National Sports Day in India is observedto
 This day commemorates the birthday of former commemorate the birth anniversary of Major
Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Dhyan Chand - the legendary hockey champion.
 In recognition of his unparalleled contributions
International Day for the Remembrance of
to the realm of sports, the Government of
the Slave Trade and its Abolition
India declared his birthday as National Sports
 International Day for the Remembrance of the Day in 2012, with the aim to inspire generations
Slave Trade and its Abolitionis observed on to come.
August 23rd annually.  This decision also focused on promoting sports
 It commemorates the day when an uprising began and physical fitness among the masses.
in Saint Domingue, now called Haiti, on the night  Theme - Sports are an enabler to an inclusive
of 22 to 23 August 1791 against the slave trade and fit society
This day raises awareness about the horrifying
National Space Day
nature of the slave trade and reminds people
about the transatlantic slave trade and its  Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on 26th August

implications 2023, declared August 23 as National Space Day

to commemorate the remarkable achievement
European Day of Remembrance for of Chandrayaan-3‘slanding on the moon.
Victims of Stalinism and Nazism  “On August 23, India hoisted its flag on the
 European Day of Remembrance for Victims Moon.
of Stalinism and Nazismis also known as Black World Sanskrit Day
Ribbon Day observed on August 23rd annually.
 This year World Sanskrit Day is observed on
 On April 2, 2009, the European Parliament
August 31st
decided that 23 August each year should
 It is observed On the full moon day of the
mark the European Day of Remembrance for
Hindu month of Shravan.
Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian
Regimes. Books & Author
National Small Industry Day 1. Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket’ by Amrit
 The National Small Industry Day is observed in Mathur
India on August 30th annually. - by Amrit Mathur
 Small Industry Day in India can be traced back 2. Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas
to August 2000 when the Government of India – compiled from the speeches and addresses
announced a comprehensive policy package for given by Prime Minister Shri Narendra
the small-scale industries in India. Modi (from June 2020 to May 2021 and
 It was decided by the Ministry of Small Scale June 2021 to May 2022)
Industries that the National Small Industry Day 3. Western Lane
will be observed every year on August 30th in – Chetna Maroo
India. 4. Kargil: Ek Yatri Ki Jubani
 Theme-“Future-ready MSMEs for India@100.
– Rishi Raj
5. How Prime Ministers Decide
National Sports Day – Neerja Chowdhury
 National Sports Dayis observed on August 29th 6. ‘Monsoon’
annually. – Abhay Kumar (Abhay K)
October, 2023 (87) CURRENT DRISHTI
 India Tour of Ireland, 2023
Cricket
Date – August 18-23, 2023
India Tour of West Indies & USA, 2023  A bilateral T20 I series (3 matches) organized
Dates – July 12 – August 13, 2023 during the tour.
 During the tour a Test series (2 matches), an   Winner – India (2-0)
ODI series (3 matches) and T20 I series (5  Individual Awards –
matches) have been organized between India &   Player of the Series – Jasprit Bumrah
West Indies. (India)
 Result of Test Series   Most runs – Ruturaj Gaikwad (India), 77
Winner – India (1-0) runs
 Individual Awards -   Most wickets – Jasprit Bumrah, 4 wickets
Most Runs – Yashasvi Jaiswal (India), 266 runs   Captain of Indian team – Jasprit Bumrah
Most wickets – R. Ashwin (India), 15 wickets 13th Consecutive ODI Series
Captain of India Team – Rohit Sharma
 It is India’s 13th consecutive ODI series win
Highest Wicket takers for India in against West Indies.
International Cricket (Test + ODI + T20I)  Last time India lost ODI series against West
1. Anil Kumble – 956 (403 matches) Indies in 2006.
2. R. Ashwin – 712 (272 matches)  Result of T20 I Series
3. Harbhajan Singh – 711 (367 matches)   Winner – West Indies (3-2)
 Individual Awards –
Virat Kohli
  Player of the Series – Nicholas Pooran
 Virat Kohli equaled Sir Don Bradman’s 29
(West Indies)
test centuries. (July 21, 2023)   Most runs – Nicholas Pooran (West
 It is Virat’s 76th hundred in 500th International Indies) 176 runs
match.   Most wickets – Romario Shepherd (West
 Result of ODI series- Indies) 9 wickets
Winner – India (2-1)
    Captain of Indian team – Hardik Pandya
 Individual awards -   Captain of West Indies – Nicholas
Player of the series – Ishan Kishan
  Pooran
(India)  Suryakumar Yadav has completed 100 sixes in
Most Runs – Ishan Kishan (India), 184
  T20I (August 8, 2023).
runs   Surya reached the mark in his 49th inning,
Captain of Indian Team – Hardik
  making him the second quickest in world
Pandya after West Indies batter Evin Lewis (42).
CURRENT DRISHTI (88) October, 2023
 Kuldeep Yadav has become the fastest Indian to  Individual Awards –
pick 50 wickets in T20 international. He reached   Player of the Series – Nishant Sindhu
the milestone in his 30th T20I. (Ind-A)
Player of the Final Match – Tayyab
 
Men’s Ashes Series, 2023
Tahir (Pak-A)
 Dates – June 16 – July 31, 2023 Most Runs – Avishka Fernando (Sri
 
 Place – England Lanka-A), 255 runs
 Teams – Australia and England Most Wickets – Nishant Sindhu (Ind-A),
 
 Matches – 05 11 wickets
 Format – Test Cricket India Women Tour of Bangladesh, 2023
 Results –
Dates – July 09-22, 2023
Draw (2-2)
   Bilateral T20 I series (3 matches) and ODI series
 Individual awards - (3 matches) have organized during the tour.
Compton-Miller Medal (Player of the
   Result of T20 I Series
Series) – Chris Woakes (England)   Winner – India Women (2-1)
  England’s Player of the Series – Chris  Individual Awards –
Woakes   Player of the Series – Harmanpreet Kaur
  Australia’s Player of the Series – Mitchell (Ind-W)
Starc   Most Runs – Harmanpreet Kaur (Ind-W),
  Most Runs – Usman Khawaja (Australia), 95 Runs
496 Runs   Most Wickets – Sultana Khatun (Ban-W),
  Most Wickets – Mitchell Starc (Australia), 7 wickets
 Result of ODI Series –
23 wickets
Result – Draw (1-1)
 Stuart Broad (England) has become only
 Individual Awards –
second fast bowler (overall fifth) to breach the
  Player of the Series – Fargana Hogue (Ban-W)
600 wicket mark in test, after James Anderson   Most Runs – Fargana Hogue (Ban-W),
(England). 181 Runs
 Nathan Lyon (Australia) became only sixth   Most Wickets – Marufa Akter (Ban-W), 7
player in the history of cricket to appear in 100 wickets
consecutive tests.
 Other Players are – Alastair Cook (159), Tennis
Allan Border (153), Mark Waugh (107), Sunil
Cincinnati Masters/Western & South
Gavaskar (106) and Brendon McCullum (101).
Open, 2023
ACC Men’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup,
Dates – August 13-20, 2023
2023
Place – Cincinnati, USA
 Dates – July 12-23, 2023 Results –
 Place – Sri Lanka  Men’s Single –
 Teams – 8  Winner – Novak Djokovic (Serbia)
 Format – List A (50-50 overs)  Runner-up – Carlos Alcaraz (Spain)
 Governing body – Asian Cricket Council  Women’s Single –
 Result –   Winner – Coco Gauff (USA)
Winner – Pakistan-A
    Runner-up – Karolina Muchova (Czech
Runner-up – India-A
  Republic)
October, 2023 (89) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Men’s Doubles –  Men’s Doubles –
 Winner – Maximo Gonzalez and Andres  Winner – Maximo Gonzalez and Andres
Molteni (Both Argentina) Molteni (Both Argentina)
Runner-up – Jamie Murray (Britain) and
   Runner-up – Mackenzie McDonald and
Michael Venus (New Zealand) Ben Shelton (Both USA)
 Women’s Doubles –  Women’s Doubles –
 Winner – Alycia Parks and Taylor  Winner – Laura Siegemund (Germany)
Townslend (Both USA) and Vera Zvonareva (Russia)
 Runner-up – Nicole Melichar Martinez  Runner-up – Alexa Guarachi (Chile) and
(USA) and Ellen Perez (Australia) Monica Niculescu (Romania)
ITF W25 Astana, 2023 ITF W60 Barcelona, 2023
 Dates – July 31 – August 06, 2023 Dates – July 31 - August 06, 2023
 Place – Astana, Kazakhstan Place – Barcelona, Spain
 Results – Results –
 Women’s Singles –
 Women’s Singles –
  Winner – Polina Iatcenko (Russia)
  Winner – Arina Rodionova (Australia)
  Runner-up – Aliona Falei (Belarus)
  Runner-up – Valeria Savinykh (Russia)
 Women’s Doubles –
 Women’s Doubles –
  Winner – Harruna Arakawa and Erika
  Winner – Prarthana G. Thombare (India)
Sema (Both Japan)
and Anastasia Tikhonova (Russia)
  Runner-up – Shrivalli Rashmikaa and
  Runner-up – Estelle Cascino (France) and
Vaidehi Chadhari (Both India)
Diana Marcinkevica (Latvia)
ITF W225 Foxhills, 2023
Hamburg European Open, 2023
Dates – July 31 - August 06, 2023
Place – Great Britain Dates – July 23-30, 2023
Results – Place – Hamburg, Germany
 Women’s Single – Results –
  Winner – Katy Dunne (Great Britain)  Men’s Single –
  Runner-up – Talia Gibson (Australia) Winner – Alexander Zverev (Germany)
 
 Women’s Doubles – Runner-up – Laslo Djere (Serbia)
 
  Winner – Rutuja Bhosale (India) and  Women’s Single –
Destanee Aiava (Australia) Winner – Arantxa Rus (Netherlands)
 
  Runner-up – Talia Gibson and Petra Hule Runner-up
  – Noma Noha Akugue
(Both Australia) (Germany)
Washington Open, 2023  Men’s Doubles –
Dates – July 31 - August 06, 2023  Winner – Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pultz
Place – Washington DC, USA (Both Germany)
Results –  Runner-up – Sander Gille and Joran
 Men’s Single – Vliegen (Both Belgium)
  Winner – Daniel Evans (Great Britain)  Women’s Doubles –
  Runner-up – Tallon Griekspoor (Netherlands)  Winner – Anna Danilina (Kazakhstan)
 Women’s Single – and Alexandra Panova (Russia)
  Winner – Coco Gauff (USA)  Runner-up – Miriam Koloziejova (Czech
  Runner-up – Maria Sakkari (Greece) Republic) and Angela Kulikov (USA)
CURRENT DRISHTI (90) October, 2023
  Women’s Teams – India, Spain and England
Table Tennis  This International Hockey Tournament was
organized on the occasion of 100th Anniversary
Ultimate Table Tennis League (Season 4), of Spainish Hockey Federation.
2023  Women’s Hockey Result -
 Dates – July 13-30, 2023   Winner – India-W
 Place – Pune, Maharashtra   Runner-up – Spain-W
 Teams – 6 (Bengaluru Smashers,  Men’s Hockey Result –
Chennai Lions, Goa Challengers, Dabang Delhi,   Winner – Spain
Puneri Paltan, U Mumba)   Runner-up – England
 Results –  India men’s hockey team has won third place
  Winner – Goa Challengers (First title) match against Netherlands.
  Runner-up – Chennai Lions
Football
Hockey
Leagues Cup, 2023
Men’s Asian Champions Trophy, 2023  Dates – July 21 – August
 Dates – August 03-12, 2023 19, 2023
 Place – Chennai (India)  Host – USA & Canada
 Title Sponsor – Hero  Teams – 47 first division clubs of USA, Canada
 Teams – 6 (India, Malaysia, and Mexico
Japan, South Korea, Pakistan  Result –
and China)   Winner – Inter Miami CF (First Title)
 Total Matches – 20   Runner-up – Nashville SC
 Result –  Individual Awards –
  Winner – India (Record fourth title)   Best Player Award – Lionel Messi (Inter
  Runner-up – Malaysia Miami CF)
 Japan has won bronze medal match against   Top Scorer – Lionel Messi, 10 goals
South Korea.
 Individual Awards FIFA Women’s World Cup, 2023
  Hero of the tournament – Mandeep  Dates – July 20 – August 20, 2023
Singh (India)  Host – Australia and New Zealand
  Top Scorer – Harmanpreet Singh (India),  Edition – 9th; Teams – 32
09 goals  Matches – 64
  Best Goalkeeper of the tournment –  Results –
Kim Jehyeon (South Korea)   Winner – Spain Women (First Title)
  Emerging Player Award – Abdul Shahid   Runner-up – England Women
(Pakistan)  Individual Awards
  Maximum Team Goals Award – India,   Golden Ball (Best Player) – Aitana
29 goals Bonmati (Spain)
  Fan Choice Award for Best Goal –   Golden Boot (Most goals) – Hinata
Selvam Karthi (India)
Miyazawa (Japan), 5 Goals
Torneo Del Centenario, 2023   Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper) – Mary
Dates – July 25-30, 2023 Earps (England)
Place – Terrassa, Spain   FIFA Best Young Player – Salma
 Men’s Teams – England, Spain, India and Paralluclo (Spain)
Netherlands.   FIFA Fair Play Award – Japan
October, 2023 (91) CURRENT DRISHTI
Gothia Cup (World Youth Cup), 2023  Mixed Doubles –
 Dates – July 16-22, 2023  Winners – Seo Seung Jae and Chae Yu
 Place – Gotheburg, Sweden Jung (Both South Korea)
Runners-up – Zheng Si Wei and Huang
 
 Edition – 47th
Ya Qiong (Both China)
 Teams – 1878
 Total Categories – 21 BWF Australia Open, 2023
 Nations – 69 Dates – August 01-06, 2023
 First Edition – 1975 Place – Sydney, Australia
 Gothia Cup is a youth association football Results –
tournament held annually in Gothenburg,  Men’s Single –
Sweden.   Winner – Weng Hong Yang (China)
 It is open for both boys and girls, aged between   Runner-up – Prannoy H.S. (India)
11-18.  Women’s Single –
 Result of Category B12   Winner – Beiwen Zhang (USA)
  Runner-up – Kim Ga Eun (South Korea)
  Winner – Minerva Academy FC (Indian
 Men’s Doubles –
team)
  Winner – Kang Min Hyuk and Seo Seung
  Runner-up – Ordin FC (Brazilian team)
Jae (Both South Korea)
 Minerva Academy FC has become the first   Runner-up – Takuro Hoki and Yugo
Indian team to won the Gothia Cup. Kobayashi (Both Japan)
 Women’s Doubles –
Badminton
  Winner – Kim So Yeong and Kong Hee
BWF World Championships 2023 Yong (Both South Korea)
  Runner-up – Liv Sheng Shu and Tan Ning
Dates – August 21-27, 2023 (Both China)
Place – Copenhagen, Denmark  Mixed Doubles –
Results –   Winner – Feng Yan Zhe and Huang Dong
 Men’s Singles – Ping (Both China)
  Winner – Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand)   Runner-up – Hiroki Midorikawa and
  Runner-up – Kodai Naraoka (Japan) Natsu Saito (Both Japan)
 Indian shuttler Prannoy H.S. has won bronze Japan Open, 2023
medal.
Dates – July 25-30, 2023
 Women’s Singles
Place – Tokyo, Japan
  Winner – An Se Young (South Korea)
  Runner-up – Carolina Marin (Spain)
Results –
 Men’s Single –
 Men’s Doubles –
 Winner – Viktor Axelson (Denmark)
  Winners – Kang Min Hyuk and Seo Seung
 Runner-up – Jonatan Christie (Indonesia)
Jae (Both South Korea)  Women’s Single –
  Runners-up – Kim Astrup and Anders  Winner – An Se Young (South Korea)
Skaarup Rasmussen (Both Denmark)  Runner-up – He Bing Jiao (China)
 Women’s Doubles –  Men’s Doubles –
  Winners – Chen Qing Chen and Jia Yi  Winner – Lee Yang and Wang Chi Lin
Fan (Both China) (Both Taiwan)
  Runners-up – Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Runner-up – Takuro Hoki and Yugo
 
Fadia Silva Ramadhanti (Both Indonesia) Kobayashi (Both Japan)
CURRENT DRISHTI (92) October, 2023
 Women’s Doubles – Hungarian Grand Prix, 2023
 Winner – Kim So Yeong and Kong Hee Dates – July 23, 2023
Young (Both South Korea) Place – Budapast, Hungary
 Runner-up – Chen Qing Chen and Jia Yi  Results –
Fan (Both China)   Winner – Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
 Mixed Doubles –   Runner-up – Lando Norris (McLaren)
 Winner – Yuta Watanabe and Arisa
Higashino (Both Japan)
Belgiam Grand Prix, 2023
 Runner-up – Deehapol Puavaranukroh  Dates – July 30, 2023
and Sapsiree Taerattanachai (Both  Place – Circuit de Spa
Thailand) Francorchamps, Belgium
Results –
Chess   Winner – Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
  Runner-up – Sergio Perez (Red Bull)
FIDE Chess World Cup, 2023
Date – July 29 - August 25, 2023 Squash
Place – Baku, Azerbaijan
30th Asian Junior Individual Squash
Results –
Championships 2023
 Open Category (Men’s –
  Winner – Magnus Carlsen (Norway) (First  Date – August 16-20, 2023
 Place – Dalian, China
title)
 Result : Girls under 17 –
  Runner-up – R. Praggnanandhaa (India)
  Winner – Anahat Singh (India)
 Fabiano Carvana (USA) has won bronze medal.
  Runner-up – Kwong Ena (Hong Kong)
 Women’s Category
  Winner – Alkeksandra Goryachkina Shooting
(Russia)
  Runner-up – Nurgyul Salimova (Bulgaria) ISSF World Championship (Juniors), 2023
 Anna Muzychuk (Ukraine) has won bronze medal. Dates – July 14-25, 2023
V. Geza Hetenyi Memorial Super GM Place – Changwon, South Korea
Chess Tournament, 2023 Medal Table (Top 5)
Rank Nations Gold Silver Bronze Total
Dates – July 11-19, 2023
1. China 12 9 7 28
Place – Budapast, Hungary
2. India 6 6 5 17
Results –
3. Ukraine 5 3 2 10
 Men’s Single –
4. Kazakhstan 4 4 2 10
  Winner – R. Praggnanandhaa (India)
5. Italy 4 3 4 11
Formula-1 Car Race
Weightlifting
Dutch Grand Prix 2023
Wrestling U20 World Championships, 2023
 Date – August 27, 2023
 Place – Zandvoort, Netherlands Dates – August 14-20, 2023
 Result – Place – Amman City, Jordan
  Winner – Max Verstappen (Red Bull)  Indian Wrestlers have won 14 medals (4
  Runner-up – Fernando Alonso (Aston gold, 3 silver and 7 bronze) in the U20 World
Martin) Championships, 2023.
October, 2023 (93) CURRENT DRISHTI
 Indian women wrestlers have stood first in Medal Standing (Top-4)
women’s team ranking with 140 points. Rank Nations Gold Silver Bronze Total
 Whereas their men counterparts have finished
1. South 4 1 2 7
3rd (102 points) in freestyle and 7th (55 points) in Korea
Greco Roman team ranking.
2. USA 2 1 0 3
 Indian Gold Medal Winners –
3. India 2 0 3 5
  Antim Panghal (Women’s 53 kg) – Gold
4. Slovakia 1 0 0 1
  Savita (Women’s 62 kg) – Gold
4. Great 1 0 0 1
  Priya Malik (Women’s 76 kg) – Gold
Britain
  Mohit Kumar (Men’s Freestyle 61 kg) –
Gold  Indian Medal Winners –
 Antim Panghal has become first Indian women   Ojas Pravind Deotale, Prathamesh
wrestler to win two gold medals (2022 & 2023) Samadhan Jawkar and Abhishek Verma
in U20 world cup. (Compound Men Team) – Gold
Commonwealth Weightlifting Champion- Parneet Kaur, Aditi Gopichand Swami
 
ship (Senior, Junior and Youth), 2023 and Jyothi Surekha Vennam (Compound
Dates – July 12-16, 2023 Women Team) – Gold
Place – Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh Jyothi Surekha Vennam (Compound
 
Women) – Bronze
Senior Medal Table
Dhiraj Bommadevarj, Atanu Das and
 
Rank Team Gold Silver Bronze Total
Tushar Prabhakar Shelke (Recurve Men
1. India 9 9 2 20
Team) – Bronze
2. Samoa 4 1 0 05
Bhajan Kaur, Ankita Bhakat and Simranjeet
 
3. Australia 2 0 3 05
4. England 1 1 1 03
Kaur (Recurve Women Team) – Bronze
5. Wales 1 1 0 02 World Archery Para Championship Pilsen,
Indian Gold Medal Winners (Senior) 2023
 Indian women weightlifters have won 5 gold Dates – July 17-23, 2023
medals while their male counterparts won 4. Place – Pilsen, Czech Republic
  Komal Kohar (Senior Women 45 kg)
Medal Standing (Top 5)
  Gyaneshwari Yadav (Senior Women 49 kg)
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
  Popy Hazarika (Senior Women 59 kg)
  Nirupama Devi (Senior Women 64 kg) 1. China 7 1 3 11
  Vanshita Verma (Senior Women 81 kg) 2. Italy 2 6 0 08
  Mukund Aher (Senior Men 55 kg) 3. Turkiye 2 2 1 05
  Shubham Todkar (Senior Men 61 kg) 4. Grait 2 1 1 04
  Ajit N (Senior Men 73 kg) Britain
  Ajay Singh (Senior Men 81 kg) 5. India 1 1 1 03
5. Australia 1 1 1 03
Archery
 Indian Medal Winner
Archery World Cup (Stage-4), 2023 Rakesh Kumar and Sarita (Compound
 

Dates – August 15-20, 2023 Open Mixed Team) – Gold

Place – Paris, France Sheetal Devi (Compound Women Open) –
 
 Indian archers have won 5 medals, Silver
including 2 golds, and placed at Jyoti and Sarita (Compound Women Open
 
number 3 in the medal table. Doubles) – Bronze
CURRENT DRISHTI (94) October, 2023
  Edition – 31st
Swimming  Athlete – More than 9500
 Sports – 18
World Aquatics Championships, 2023
 First Edition – 1959
 Dates – July 14-30, 2023
Medal Table (Top-10)
 Place – Fukuoka, Japan
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
 Governing Body – World
1. China 103 40 35 178
Aquatics 2. Japan 21 29 43 93
Medal Table (Top-5) 3. South 17 18 23 58
Rank Nations Gold Silver Bronze Total Korea
1. China 20 08 12 40 4. Italy 17 18 23 58
2. Australia 15 09 06 30 5. Poland 15 16 12 43
3. United 7 22 15 44 6. Turkiye 11 12 12 35
States 7. India 11 5 10 26
4. Japan 4 1 5 10 8. Taiwan 10 17 19 46
5. France 4 0 4 08 9. Lithuania 6 4 2 12
10. France 5 8 10 23
Miscellaneous  This is India’s best performance in the history
of this tournament.
IBSA World Games, 2023  Indian athletes have won total 26 medals
 Dates – August 14-27, 2023 including 11 gold and place at number 7 in the
 Place – Birmingham, UK medal table.
 Governing body – International Blind Sports 69th Nehru Trophy Boat Race, 2023
Federation (IBSA)
 Dates – August 12, 2023 (Each year on second
 Games – Three paralympic and seven non-
Saturday of August)
paralympic
 Place – Punnamda Lake, Alappuzha (Kerala)
 Debut game – Cricket (Blind)
 Mascot – A baby elephant rowing a snake boat
 Nations – 70
  Winner – Veeyapuram boat (Captain –
 Athletes – More than 1250 Allen Moonnutaikkal)
Important Results :  Veeyapuram snake boat is belong to
 Blind Cricket : Women’s Pallathuruthy Boat club, Alappuzha.
  Winner – India WSL Tamil Nadu International Surf Open,
  Runner-up – Australia 2023
 This is first gold medal of India in the history
 Dates – August 14-20, 2023
of IBSA World games.
 Place – Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu (First
 Blind Cricket : Men’s
time in India)
  Winner – Pakistan
 Governing body – World Surf League (WSL)
  Runner-up – India
Results –
FISU World University Games, 2023  Men’s Surfing –
 Dates – July 28 - August 08, 2023  Winner – Tenshi Iwami (Japan)
 Place – Chengdu, China  Runner-up – Kian Martin (Sweden)
 Governing body – Interna-  Women’s Surfing –
tional University Sports Fed-  Winner – Sara Wakita (Japan)
eration (FISU)  Runner-up – Shino Matsuda (Japan)
October, 2023 (95) CURRENT DRISHTI
Tour de France, 2023 (Cycling) Dutee Chand
 Dates – July 1-23, 2023  Indian womn athlete; women's
 Place – France 100m national record holder.
 Edition – 110th  National Anti-Doping Agency
 Starting Point – Bilbao (Spain) (NADA) has banned her for four
 Last Point – Paris (France) years due to positive dope tests (August 17,
 Stages – 21 2023)
 Total Distance – 3404 km  The four year ban will be effective from January
 Teams - 22 3, 2023.
 Results – Jananjoy J. Hazarika
  Winner – Jonas Vingegaard (Team Jumbo
 Assam based swimmer.
Visma)
 He has smashed the national record
  Runner-up – Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team
in the 100m butterfly for 15-17
Emirates)
years old boys.
 Jonas Vingegaard of Denmark has won second
 39th Sub Junior & 49th Junior National Aquatic
consecutive title of Tour de France.
Championships 2023 has conducted at
Victoria withdraws as host of Bhubaneswar, Odisha (August 16-20, 2023).
Commonwealth Games, 2026  Karnataka topped with combined (Men +
 Australia’s state of Victoria has withdrawn Women) medal with 119 medals (50 gold, 42
as host of 2026 Commonwealth games. (July, silver and 27 bronze).
2023) Tilak Verma
 The state’s premier Dan Andrews said the cost
 Tilak Verma becomes second
of hosting the Games could potentially rise to
youngest Indian batsman (20 years
more than 4.77 billion American dollars from a
271 days) to hit a half century in
budgeted 1.77 billion American dollars.
T20 Internations (August 6, 2023).
Players in News  Rohit Sharma had scored half century during
T20I World Cup 2007 at 20 years, 143 days.
Paramjeet Kumar
Marlen Samuels
 Indian para-powerlifter.
 Former West Indies cricketer.
 He has become first Indian para
 He has been found quilty of
athlete to won gold medal at world
four offences under the Emirates
championships in senior category.
Cricket Board Anti Corruption
 World para powerlifting championship 2023
Code. (August 16, 2023).
has organised in Dubai, UAE (August 22-230,
 He was charged by the ICC in September, 2021.
2023).
Lokesh Suji
Neeraj Chopra
 Director of the Esport Federation.
 Indian Javelin throw athlete.  International Esports Federation
 He has won silver medal (85.71 m) (IESF) has elected him to its
at Zurich leg of Diamond League membership committee for three
2023 (August 31, 2023) year term (August 28, 2023)
 Jakub Vadlejch (Czech Republic) has won gold  He is first Indian member of this
medal with his 85.86 m effort. committee.
CURRENT DRISHTI (96) October, 2023