Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Compilation
June 2023
Important topics
covered:
District Legal Services Authority (DLSA)
Women 20 (W20) Summit
Chandrayaan-3
Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme (EBP)
Exercise Khaan Quest 2023
JUNE 2023 – PIB COMPILATION
Lavender Festival
Focus: GS I: Festivals
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Minister of Science & Technology inaugurated the Lavender festival at Bhaderwah in the
Jammu region.
Lavender Festival:
The Lavender Festival marks the second year of the lavender revolution, highlighting Bhaderwah as
the Lavender capital of India and an Agri StartUp destination.
The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM)
supports farmers in cultivating Lavender in Bhaderwah, Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) as
part of the CSIR-Aroma Mission.
CSIR-Aroma Mission:
CSIR-Aroma Mission is a flagship project of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
launched under the
Ministry of Science and Technology.
Its primary objective is to promote Lavender cultivation in the temperate regions of Jammu and
Kashmir.
The mission aims to increase the income of small and marginal farmers while fostering the
development of agriculture-based startups.
Lavender:
Lavender is a flowering plant that belongs to the mint family and is recognized by its delightful
floral fragrance.
It is believed to be native to the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and India.
The Lavender Festival celebrates the progress made in lavender cultivation in Bhaderwah, Jammu
and Kashmir, and promotes the economic upliftment of farmers through the CSIR-Aroma Mission.
Context:
Recently, an international team of researchers revealed global observations of auroras associated with carbon
dioxide using satellites.
Relevance:
GS I: Geography
Formation of Auroras:
Auroras are formed when charged particles ejected from the sun's corona create solar wind, which
interacts with Earth's ionosphere.
In the Northern Hemisphere, they are called the northern lights or aurora borealis, while in the
Southern Hemisphere, they are known as the southern lights or aurora australis.
The asymmetry of auroras between hemispheres is influenced by the interference between the
sun's magnetic field and Earth's magnetic field.
The commonly observed green and red auroras occur between 100 to 250 kilometers above the
planet's surface due to the excited state of atomic oxygen.
Why in News?
Recently, on the occasion of International MSME Day, the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises,
MSME launched ‘CHAMPIONS 2.0 Portal.
New Features:
The revamped CHAMPIONS 2.0 portal incorporates AI-driven chatbots to enhance user experience
and provide efficient grievance redressal.
The portal is available in 11 languages, including Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali, and Kannada, to cater to a
wider audience.
It includes a real-time feedback mechanism for analysis, allowing users to provide feedback on their
experience with the portal.
Context:
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) notified the Assisted Reproductive Technology
(Regulations) Amendment Rules 2023 (under the ART Act 2021) to provide donors and patients with better
medical care and security.
Relevance:
GS II: Polity and Governance
Donor Criteria:
Female donors must be married and have at least one child of their own, who is at least three years
old.
Parental Rights:
A child born through an ART procedure is legally considered the biological child of the couple
undergoing the procedure and is entitled to all the rights associated with that status.
The donor does not retain any parental rights over the child.
Offences:
The Act identifies several offences related to ART procedures.
These include abandoning or exploiting children born through ART, sale, purchase, or trade of
embryos, exploitation of couples or donors, and transferring an embryo into a male or an animal.
Committing such offences can result in imprisonment ranging from 8 to 12 years and a fine ranging
from Rs 10 to 20 lakhs.
Why in News?
For the first time in the history of independent India, the turnover of Khadi and Village Industries Commission
products has crossed Rs.1.34 lakh crores figure.
Objectives of KVIC
The broad objectives of the Khadi Village and Industries Commission encompassing self-reliance and
sustainability are:
To boost employment in the country.
To promote the promotion and sale of Khadi articles
To cater to the self-reliance doctrine of the country by empowering underprivileged and rural
sections of the society.
Functions of KVIC
The following are the functions of Khadi Village and Industries Commission:
It plans, promotes, organizes, and implements programmes for the development of Khadi and
Village Industries (KVI).
It coordinates with multiple agencies that are engaged in rural development for several initiatives
w.r.t khadi and village industries in rural areas.
It maintains a reserve of raw materials that can be further promoted in the supply-chain.
It aids in creating common service facilities that help in processing of raw materials.
It aids the marketing of KVI products through artisans and other avenues.
It creates linkages with multiple marketing agencies for the promotion and sale of KVI products.
It encourages and promotes research and development in the KVI sector.
It brings solutions to the problems associated with the KVI products by promoting research study
and enhancing competitive capacity.
It also helps in providing financial assistance to the individuals and institutions related to the khadi
and village industries.
It enforces guidelines to comply with the product standards to eliminate the production of
ingenuine products.
It is empowered to bring projects, programmes, schemes in relation to khadi and village industries’
development.
Why in News?
Recently, under the Department of Justice's (Ministry of Law and Justice) Nyaya Bandhu, Pro Bono Club, ICFAI
Law School, The ICFAI University, Tripura, in association with District Legal Services Authority West Tripura,
organized a Door-to-Door Legal Aid Campaign.
Composition of DLSA:
The State Government, in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court, constitutes the
District Legal Services Authority.
The chairman of the DLSA is the district judge, while other members with specific qualifications and
experience are nominated by the government.
The Secretary of the District Authority is a person from the State Judicial Service, not below the rank
of a Subordinate Judge or Civil Judge posted at the district seat.
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GS-II: Polity & Constitution: June ‘23 PIB
The Member Secretary of the District Authority is the Assistant Commissioner of the concerned
district.
NANDI Portal
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying launched Nandi - NOC Approval for
New Drug and Inoculation System portal, at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.
Focus: GS-II: Social Justice and Governance (Issues related to Women and Health, Government Initiatives and
Policies, Welfare Schemes)
Why in News?
The Prime Minister has lauded the new initiative of celebrating ‘Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana’ as ‘God
Bharai' ceremony in Dausa, Rajasthan.
Why in News?
Prime Minister of India inaugurated the first-ever National Training Conclave at the International Exhibition
and Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
About Mission Karmayogi - National Program for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB)
The NPCSCB will use scale & state of the art infrastructure to augment the capacity of Civil Servants
to improve the Human Resource management practices in the Government.
Mission Karmayogi aims to prepare the Indian Civil Servant for the future by making him more
creative, constructive, imaginative, innovative, proactive, professional, progressive, energetic,
enabling, transparent and technology-enabled.
A Public Human Resources Council comprising of select Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, eminent
public HR practitioners, thinkers, global thought leaders and Public Service functionaries under the
Chairmanship of Hon'ble Prime Minister will serve as the apex body for providing strategic
direction to the task of Civil Services Reform and capacity building.
Salient Features
NPCSCB has been carefully designed to lay the foundations for capacity building for Civil Servants
so that they remain entrenched in Indian Culture and sensibilities and remain connected, with their
roots, while they learn from the best institutions and practices across the world.
The Programme will be delivered by setting up an Integrated Government Online Training - iGOT
Karmayogi Platform.
It is also proposed to set up a Capacity Building Commission, with a view to ensure a uniform
approach in managing and regulating the capacity building ecosystem on collaborative and co-
sharing basis.
iGOT - Karmayogi
iGOT-Karmayogi platform brings the scale and state-of-the-art infrastructure to augment the
capacities of over two crore officials in India.
The platform is expected to evolve into a vibrant and world-class market place for content where
carefully curated and vetted digital e-learning material will be made available.
Besides capacity building, service matters like confirmation after probation period, deployment,
work assignment and notification of vacancies etc., would eventually be integrated with the
proposed competency framework.
Why in News?
Recently, the drug price regulator, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), fixed the ceiling price
of 18 formulations, and the retail price of 23 new drugs by bringing them under price control.
Functions of NPPA:
To implement and enforce the provisions of the Drugs Price Control Order (DPCO), 1995/2013 in
accordance with the powers delegated to it.
To undertake and/or sponsor relevant studies in respect of pricing of drugs/formulations.
To monitor the availability of drugs, identify shortages, if any, and to take remedial steps.
To collect/maintain data on production, exports and imports, market share of individual companies,
profitability of companies etc. for bulk drugs and formulations.
To deal with all legal matters arising out of the decisions of the Authority.
To render advice to the Central Government on changes/revisions in the drug policy.
To render assistance to the Central Government in the parliamentary matters relating to the drug
pricing.
Why in News?
Recently, the Government of India has decided to allow 2000 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to
open Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country.
Tele-Law Programme
Why in News?
Recently, The Ministry of Law informed that the Tele-Law programme achieved a new milestone with 40 lakh
beneficiaries across the country empowered with pre-litigation advice.
Tele-Law Programme:
The Tele-Law programme was launched in 2017 and falls under the Department of Justice, Ministry
of Law and Justice.
It serves as an e-interface mechanism for seeking legal advice and consultation at the pre-litigation
stage, aiming to provide assistance to underprivileged individuals.
Panel Lawyers:
Panel Lawyers are practicing advocates selected by the Department of Justice and CSC-eGovernance
Services or registered on the Panel of State/District Legal Services Authority.
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Minister of Heavy Industries unveiled the ground-breaking "Dugdh Sanakalan Sathi Mobile
App" at Mussorie, Uttarakhand.
Why in News?
The Government of India has launched a new fellowship programme to connect the Indian Science, Technology,
Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM)diaspora with Indian academic and R&D institutions.
Sagar Samridhi
Why in News?
Recently, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has launched 'Sagar Samriddhi,' an online
dredging monitoring system to accelerate the 'Waste to Wealth' initiative of the Government.
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Minister of Public Grievances, and Pensions, launched the Grievance Redressal Assessment
and Index (GRAI) 2022.
GRAI 2022:
Concept and Design: The GRAI was conceptualized and designed by the Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) with the objective of presenting a
comparative picture of grievance redressal mechanisms in different organizations.
Assessment and Ranking: A total of 89 Central Ministries and Departments were assessed and
ranked based on a comprehensive index. The assessment Focused on four dimensions: Efficiency,
Feedback, Domain, and Organizational Commitment. These dimensions were evaluated using 12
corresponding indicators.
Data Source: The data used for computing the index was collected from the Centralised Public
Grievance Redressal and Management System (CPGRAMS) for the period between January and
December 2022.
CPGRAMS:
Online Grievance Redressal Platform: CPGRAMS is an online platform that allows citizens to lodge
their grievances related to service delivery to public authorities. It is available 24x7 for citizens to
access.
PM KISAN App
Why in News?
Recently, the PM-Kisan Mobile App with Face Authentication Feature was launched by Union Agriculture and
Farmers’ Welfare Minister.
About PM KISAN
Nodal: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme is a Central Sector Direct Benefit
Transfer (DBT) Scheme.
Under the scheme an income support of 6,000/- per year in three equal installments will be
provided to small and marginal farmer families having combined land holding/ownership of upto 2
hectares.
The Scheme initially provided income support to all Small and Marginal Farmers’ families across the
country, holding cultivable land upto 2 hectares.
Its ambit was later expanded to cover all farmer families in the country irrespective of the size of
their land holdings.
Definition of family for the scheme is husband, wife and minor children.
State Government and UT administration will identify the farmer families which are eligible for
support as per scheme guidelines.
The fund will be directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.
There are various Exclusion Categories for the scheme.
Some of the categories of beneficiaries who are NOT eligible for benefit under this scheme are:
Any institutional land-holders.
The farmer as well as any member of the family belonging to the following categories:
o Former and present holders of constitutional posts
o Former and present Ministers/ State Ministers
o Former or present members of LokSabha/ RajyaSabha/ State Legislative Assemblies/
State Legislative Councils
o Former and present Mayors of Municipal Corporations
o Former and present Chairpersons of District Panchayats.
o Any serving or retired officers as well as employees under the Central/ State
Government Ministries /Offices/Departments.
o All retired pensioners who get a monthly pension of Rs.10,000/-or more and belonging
to the above category.
o Any individual who paid their income tax in the last assessment year is not eligible
under this scheme.
o Professionals like Doctors, Engineers, Lawyers, Chartered Accountants, and Architects
registered with Professional bodies and carrying out profession by undertaking
practices.
Context:
India was recently inducted into the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP).
Relevance:
GS II: International Relations
Why in News?
Recently, as a part of India’s G20 Presidency, the Women 20 (W20) Summit with the theme 'Women-Led
Development- Transform, Thrive and Transcend' held in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu.
About W20:
W20 is an official engagement group under the G20, established in 2015.
It Focuses on gender equity and women's empowerment.
The group aims to mainstream gender considerations into G20 discussions and translate them into
policies and commitments.
W20 influences the G20 agenda and promotes gender-sensitive approaches to global challenges.
Priorities:
W20's priorities include women's entrepreneurship, grassroots women leadership, bridging the
gender digital divide, education and skill development, and climate change.
Composition:
W20 comprises a transnational network of delegates.
Delegates represent non-government women's organizations, civil society, female entrepreneurs,
businesses, and think tanks.
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GS-II: International Relations: June ‘23 PIB
Why in News?
Recently, the second Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Ministerial Meeting took place,
showcasing the significant strides made in fostering economic engagement among partner countries in
the Indo-Pacific region.
Why in News?
Recently, to promote the Digital India initiative of the Government of India, the Infrastructure Finance
Secretariat has launched the IIPDF Portal for submitting applications for consideration under IIPDF Scheme.
Details:
The IIPDF has been created with initial budgetary outlay by the Ministry of Finance, Government of
India.
For providing financial corpus fund titled ‘India Infrastructure Project Development Fund’ (IIPDF),
with initial contribution of Rs. 100 crore is being set up.
Although it is envisaged as a revolving support for quality project development activities to the
States and the Central Ministries a
fund and would get replenished by the reimbursement of ‘investment’ through success fee earned
from successfully bid projects, should there be a need, it can be supplemented in subsequent years
through budget support.
The IIPDF would assist ordinarily up to 75% of the project development expenses.
The assistance from IIPDF would ordinarily be in the form of interest free loan.
On successful completion of the bidding process, the project development expenditure would be
recovered from the successful bidder.
Objectives:
The IIPDF’s primary objective would be to fund potential PPP projects’ project development
expenses including costs of engaging consultants and transaction advisor, thus increasing the
quality and quantity of successful PPPs and allowing informed decision making by the Government
based on good quality feasibility reports.
The IIPDF will assist projects that closely support the best practices in PPP project identification
and preparation as set out in guidance to be issued by the Department of Economic Affairs from
time to time.
Why in News?
Recently, the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy have jointly launched a
National Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research.
About MAHIR:
The Mission for Accelerating the Indigenization of Emerging Technologies in the Power Sector
(MAHIR) aims to identify and develop emerging technologies in the power sector for deployment
within and outside India.
MAHIR will be funded through the pooling of financial resources from the Ministry of Power,
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and the Central Public Sector Enterprises under these
ministries.
Additional funding will be mobilized from the Government of India's budgetary resources.
The mission is planned for an initial period of five years, starting from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
Why in News?
Recently, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) transferred cost-effective Lithium-ion
battery recycling technology to nine recycling industries and start-ups.
This technology has been developed under the Centre of Excellence on E-waste Management.
About Lithium:
Lithium is a soft, silver-white metal with the symbol Li and atomic number 3.
It is the lightest of all the metals and the least dense solid element.
It is highly reactive and flammable, and easily oxidizes in air or water.
Occurrence:
Lithium is a rare element and is mostly found in minerals such as spodumene, lepidolite, and
petalite.
It is also found in brines and clays in certain regions of the world, such as the “Lithium Triangle” in
South America, which includes Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile.
Uses:
Lithium has a range of industrial applications, including:
Lithium-ion batteries: It is a critical component of rechargeable batteries used in mobile devices,
laptops, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage systems.
Aerospace industry: Lithium is used in the manufacturing of aircraft parts due to its lightweight
and strong structural properties.
Glass and ceramics: Lithium is used in the production of heat-resistant glass and ceramics, such as
ovenware and laboratory equipment.
Pharmaceuticals: Lithium is used as a mood stabilizer in the treatment of bipolar disorder.
Lubricants: Lithium is used in greases and lubricants due to its ability to reduce friction and wear.
Chandrayaan-3
Context:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to retain the names of the Chandrayaan-2 lander
(Vikram) and rover (Pragyan) for their Chandrayaan-3 equivalents as well.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Chandrayaan-3 Mission:
Chandrayaan-3 is the third lunar exploration mission by ISRO.
It aims to demonstrate capabilities in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.
o Safe landing (through the lander Vikram - after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian
space programme) and
o Roving (through the rover Pragyan) on the lunar surface.
Unlike Chandrayaan-2, it will not have an orbiter and the propulsion module will act as a
communications relay satellite.
Mission Modules:
Propulsion Module:
Includes the Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE) payload for studying Earth
from lunar orbit using spectro-polarimetry.
Lander Module:
Consists of four payloads:
Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive ionosphere and Atmosphere (RAMBHA) for studying
the temporal evolution of electron density in the Lunar ionosphere.
Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) for measuring thermal conductivity and
temperature on the lunar surface.
Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) for measuring seismic activity around the landing site.
Langmuir Probe (LP) for estimating plasma density and variations.
Rover Module:
Equipped with the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) and Laser Induced Breakdown
Spectroscope (LIBS) payloads to analyze elemental composition near the landing site.
Rover Deployment:
Once the lander module has achieved a secure landing, it will initiate the deployment of the rover
module called 'Pragyan' onto the lunar surface.
Why in News?
Recently, the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) celebrated its 20th Foundation Day, reaffirming its
unwavering dedication towards building India’s internet infrastructure.
About NIXI
The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) is a non-profit company incorporated under
Section 25 of the India Companies Act, 1956 (now section 8 under Companies Act 2013) with an
objective of facilitating improved internet services in the country.
It was registered on 19 June 2003.
Its Primary purpose is to facilitate exchange of domestic Internet traffic between the peering
Internet service provider (ISP), Content players and any other organizations with their own
Autonomous system (AS) number.
This enables more efficient use of international bandwidth, saving foreign exchange and also
improves the Quality of Services (QoS) for Internet users by avoiding multiple international hops
and thus reducing latency.
NIXI is managed and operated on a neutral basis and currently has eight operational NOC located in
Delhi (Noida), Mumbai (Vashi), Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Guwahati
.
NIXI is India’s First and Only Neutral Internet Exchange
Since 2005, NIXI has also created INRegistry (.in domain) as its autonomous body for maintenance
of .IN domain.
Since December 2012, NIXI also manages the National Internet Registry of the country delegation
Internet Protocol addresses (IPv4 and IPv6) and Autonomous System numbers to its Affiliates.
Mission of NIXI
To Promote Internet.
To set up, when needed, in select location(s)/parts/regions of India Internet Exchanges/Peering
Points.
To enable effective and efficient routing, peering, transit and exchange of the Internet traffic within
India.
To continuously work for enhancing and improving the quality of Internet and Broadband services.
Set up Internet Domain Name Operations and related activities.
Benefits:
The launch of these new NIXI internet exchanges will contribute to the enhancement and
improvement of Internet and Broadband services at local level and in neighbouring regions.
The internet service providers connecting at these points will benefit as their broadband services to
their end users will improve, bringing about a change in the lives of the people of the region.
It will benefit every sector of the state ranging from health, education, agriculture, startup, and
ecosystem to MSMEs & other business verticals.
Accessibility and convenience will increase for citizens in terms of availing government benefits and
improving quality of life.
Why in News?
The Indian Navy and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out the
transfer of command-and-control capabilities of the TAPAS Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).
Features:
Endurance and Altitude: The UAV has an endurance of over 18 hours, enabling it to stay airborne
for long durations. It is capable of operating at altitudes of up to 28,000 feet, allowing for extended
coverage and surveillance capabilities.
Wingspan and Speed: The Tapas UAV has a wingspan of 20.6 meters, providing stability and lift
during flight. It can reach a maximum speed of 225 kmph, allowing for efficient and timely
operations.
Payload Capacity: The drone has a maximum payload capacity of 350 kilograms, which can
accommodate various equipment and sensor packages necessary for intelligence, surveillance, and
reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Remote Control and Autonomy: The Tapas UAV can be controlled remotely by operators on the
ground. It also has the ability to execute pre-programmed flight plans autonomously, providing
flexibility and precision in its operations.
ISTAR Capabilities: The Tapas UAV is designed to fulfill the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target
Acquisition, Tracking & Reconnaissance (ISTAR) requirements of the tri-services. It is capable of
operating effectively in both day and night conditions.
Weaponization Potential: The UAV is pre-designed to carry certain weapons and can be converted
into an armed platform if required by the user. This provides the option for weaponization based on
mission needs.
Why in News?
Recently, researchers at IIT Kanpur developed a 100% DME-fuelled engine with a mechanical fuel injection
system.
Context:
According to recent research, the chiral Bose-liquid state may be an entirely new state of matter.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Lab-Grown Meat
Context:
Two U.S. companies, Good Meat and Upside Foods, have received the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
approval to make and sell their cell-cultivated chicken.
The first country to approve the sale of alternative meat was Singapore in 2020.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Cellular Agriculture: This method of meat production is also known as cellular agriculture, as it
utilizes cell cultures to generate meat.
Food Security:
Lab-grown meat has the potential to address food security challenges by providing a more efficient
and sustainable method of meat production.
With the global population projected to increase, lab-cultivated meat can help meet the growing
demand for protein while minimizing the strain on natural resources.
By reducing fat content or enhancing nutritional components, lab-grown meat can contribute to
public health initiatives and cater to specific dietary preferences.
Cost:
The cost of producing cell-cultivated meat is currently high compared to conventional meat.
The production process involves complex technologies and expensive inputs, making it
economically challenging to make lab-grown meat commercially viable and affordable for mass
consumption.
Environmental Impact:
While cell-cultivated meat has the potential to reduce environmental impact compared to
traditional meat production, there are concerns about the environmental footprint of the cultivation
process itself.
A study highlighted that if the production of cultured meat requires specialized and purified liquids
similar to those used in the pharmaceutical industry, the environmental impact could be worse than
conventional beef production.
Why in News?
The Central Government aims to increase production of ethanol and also supply of ethanol for the Ethanol
Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme, especially in the surplus season. Government policy changes have led to
a remarkable increase in molasses-based distilleries' capacity, soaring from 215 crore liters in 2014 to an
impressive 811 crore liters in the past 9 years.
Why in News?
Recently, the multinational Peacekeeping Joint Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest 2023” commenced in Mongolia.
Objectives:
The 14-day exercise aims to enhance the interoperability among participating nations.
It Focuses on sharing experiences and training uniformed personnel for United Nations
Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO).
The exercise helps prepare participants for future UN Peacekeeping missions, develop peace
operations capabilities, and enhance military readiness.
Activities:
Exercise Khaan Quest 2023 includes various activities such as Command Post Exercise (CPX), Field
Training Exercises (FTX), combat discussions, lectures, and demonstrations.
Purpose:
The exercise aims to improve the coordination and cooperation between international military
forces.
It facilitates the exchange of best practices, strategies, and techniques in peacekeeping operations.
Through joint training and exercises, participants enhance their skills, knowledge, and capabilities
in UNPKO scenarios.
Exercise Ekuverin
Why in News?
The joint military exercise “Ekuverin” between the Indian Army & the Maldives National Defence Force has
commenced at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand from 11 to 24 June 2023.
The primary objective of Exercise Ekuverin is to enhance interoperability between the Indian and
Maldivian armed forces in Counter Insurgency/Counter Terrorism (CI/CT) operations under the
United Nations mandate. The exercise also Focuses on conducting joint Humanitarian Assistance
and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
The exercise aims to promote the sharing of best practices, enhance coordination, and improve
cooperation between the two forces at the tactical level.
In addition to the joint exercise, India provides assistance to the Maldives in defense training and
equipment requirements. The defense cooperation between the two countries extends beyond
exercises and encompasses economic, cultural, and military cooperation.
The Exercise Ekuverin further strengthens the close and friendly relations between India and
Maldives, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation in various fields.
Why in News?
The first edition of the India, France, and UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise began on June 7, 2023, in the Gulf
of Oman.
Details:
Participating in the exercise are INS Tarkash (Indian Navy), French Ship Surcouf (French Navy),
French Rafale aircraft, and UAE Navy Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
The two-day exercise will involve a range of naval operations, including Surface Warfare, Missile
engagements on surface targets, Helicopter Cross Deck Landing Operations, Advanced Air Defence
Exercise, and Boarding operations.
The exercise will also facilitate the exchange of personnel for the sharing of best practices.
The primary objective of the maiden exercise is to strengthen trilateral cooperation between the
three navies and develop strategies to address traditional and non-traditional threats in the
maritime environment.
Additionally, the exercise aims to enhance collaboration in ensuring the safety of mercantile trade
and freedom of navigation in the region's high seas.
UTPRERAK
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Minister of State for Power inaugurated UTPRERAK, a dedicated Centre of Excellence, to
accelerate industry adoption of clean technologies in New Delhi.
About UTPRERAK:
UTPRERAK, also known as the Advanced Industrial Technology Demonstration Centre (AITDC), is a Centre of
Excellence established by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power, with the aim of accelerating
the adoption of energy-efficient technologies in the Indian industry. Here are the key mandates of UTPRERAK:
Reference and Resource Institution: UTPRERAK is mandated to become a key reference and
resource institution on industrial energy-efficient technologies. It will provide comprehensive
information, guidance, and expertise related to energy efficiency in the industrial sector.
Demonstration and Showcasing: UTPRERAK will demonstrate and showcase energy-efficient
technologies in key industry sectors. It will serve as a platform to exhibit and promote innovative
technologies, solutions, and practices that can improve energy efficiency in industries.
Exhibition cum Information Centre: UTPRERAK will function as an exhibition cum information
centre, providing access to relevant information, case studies, success stories, and best practices in
energy efficiency. It will create awareness among industry professionals about the potential
benefits and opportunities associated with energy-efficient technologies.
Knowledge Repository: UTPRERAK will serve as a repository of knowledge, collating and
organizing information related to energy-efficient technologies, industry-specific energy
conservation measures, and successful implementation models. This knowledge repository will be
accessible to industry stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, and other interested parties.
Knowledge Exchange Platform: UTPRERAK will facilitate knowledge exchange and dissemination
of best practices among industry professionals. It will organize workshops, seminars, and training
programs to promote the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and share experiences from
various sectors.
Why in News?
The Vice President of India will confer upon the fourth National Water Awards in New Delhi on 17th June
2023.
Categories:
The awards cover various categories, including 'Best State,' 'Best District,' 'Best Village Panchayat,'
'Best Urban Local Body,' and more.