Beepedia Weekly Current Affairs (Beepedia) 1st-8th December 2023

Weekly BeePedia
1st -8th December 2023
INDEX
RBI, Banking and Economy ___________________________________________ 2
SEBI and Financial Awareness _________________________________________ 10
NABARD and Agriculture ___________________________________________ 12
National __________________________________________________________ 15
International _____________________________________________________ 17
States____________________________________________________________ 21
Reports and Indexes _______________________________________________ 25
Science and Technology ___________________________________________ 31
Defence __________________________________________________________ 33
Events ___________________________________________________________ 35
Awards & Rewards ___________________________________________________ 38
Appointments _____________________________________________________ 40
Important Days ___________________________________________________ 45
Obituaries_________________________________________________________ 42
Books ___________________________________________________________ 42
Sports ___________________________________________________________ 43
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RBI, Banking and Economy
India’s oil imports from Russia see a rebound
 India’s Russian oil imports rebounded in November after several plants came back online from
planned maintenance and as fuel consumption rose during the Diwali festive season, preliminary data
from ship-tracking firms Kpler and Vortexa showed.
 The world’s third-biggest importer and consumer of oil has boosted purchases of Russian oil sold
at a discount after imports from Russia were shunned by some Western countries following its
invasion of Ukraine last year.
 Data from Kpler and Vortexa showed a 9% and 5% rise in India’s monthly intake of Russian oil in
November from the previous month to 1.73 million barrels per day (bpd) and 1.68 million bpd,
RBI imposes a penalty of Rs 10,000 each on Bank of America, N.A. and HDFC Bank Ltd.
 RBI imposes a penalty of Rs 10,000 each on Bank of America, N.A. and HDFC Bank Ltd.
 Bank of America, N.A. penalized for violating RBI's instructions on reporting requirements under the
Liberalised Remittance Scheme of FEMA 1999.
 HDFC Bank faces a penalty for violating directions related to the acceptance of deposits from non-
residents.
 Additionally, five cooperative banks receive penalties for non-compliance with various regulatory norms.
 Penalized cooperative banks include The Patliputra Central Cooperative Bank (Bihar), The Balasore
Bhadrak Central Co-operative Bank (Odisha), Dhrangadhra People's Co-operative Bank (Gujarat),
Patan Nagarik Sahakari Bank Ltd. (Patan, Gujarat), and The Mandal Nagarik Sahakari Bank
(Gujarat).
Learn Along:
About RBI
Founded: 1 April 1935 Headquarters: Mumbai Governor: Shaktikanta Das
About HDFC
 CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan Founded: August 1994 Headquarters: Mumbai
About FEMA
 The Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, is an Act of the Parliament of India "to consolidate and amend
the law relating to foreign exchange with the objective of facilitating external trade and payments and for
promoting the orderly development and maintenance of foreign exchange market in India".
RBI, BoE agree to exchange information on CCIL
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Bank of England (BoE) signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) concerning cooperation and exchange of information in relation to the Clearing
Corporation of India Ltd.
 The MoU establishes a framework for the BoE to place reliance on RBI’s regulatory and
supervisory activities.
 The MoU also demonstrates the importance of cross-border cooperation to facilitate international
clearing activities and the BoE’s commitment to deference to other regulators’ regime.

Weekly BeePedia
 The MoU will enable the BoE to assess the application of CCIL for recognition as a third-country Central
Counterparty.
 The MoU was signed by RBI Deputy Governor T Rabi Sankar and BoE Deputy Governor for
Financial Stability Sarah Breeden.
RBI cancels licence of Shankarrao Pujari Bank in Maharashtra
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the licence of Shankarrao Pujari Nutan Nagari
Sahakari Bank Limited in Kolhapur city.
 The Commissioner for Cooperation and Registrar Cooperative Societies, Maharashtra, has also
 been requested to issue an order for winding up the bank and appoint a liquidator for the bank.
 According to RBI, the licence was cancelled as the bank does not have adequate capital and earning
prospects and it does not comply with the provisions of Section 11(1) and Section 22 (3) (d) read
with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
 The bank has also failed to comply with various other sections of the Banking Regulation Act,
1949.
RBI Cancels Licence Of Urban Co-op Bank In UP Over Inadequate Funds
 The RBI cancelled the licence of Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh as the
lender does not have adequate capital and earning prospects.
 Consequently, the bank ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from the close of business
on December 07, 2023.
 On liquidation, every depositor would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of
his/her deposits up to a monetary ceiling of ₹ 5 lakh from Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee
Corporation (DICGC).
 As per the data submitted by the bank, 98.32 per cent of the depositors are entitled to receive full
amount of their deposits from DICGC.
 The cooprative bank has been prohibited from conducting the business of 'banking' which
includes, among other things, acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits.
RBI MPC: Repo rate kept unchanged at 6.5%, FY24 GDP estimate hiked to 7%
 RBI Monetary Policy Committee maintains the repo rate at 6.5%, unchanged for the fifth consecutive
time.
 The decision to keep the "withdrawal of accommodation" stance is unanimous, with a 5-1 majority.
 Uncertainty in near-term forecasts due to food inflation, which may lead to an uptick in headline
inflation figures in November and December.
 Repo rate has remained unchanged since April, with a total increase of 250 basis points between
May 2022 and February 2023 to control inflation.
 GDP forecast for FY24 raised to 7% from the previous estimate of 6.5%.
 Q3FY24 GDP projection increased to 6.5% from 6%, and Q4FY24 projection raised to 6% from 5.7%.
 Q1FY25 GDP projection increased to 6.7% from 6.6%, while Q2FY25 and Q3FY25 projections are at
6.5% and 6.4%, respectively.

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 Inflation projections remain unchanged, with FY24 retail inflation forecast at 5.4% and Q3FY25 at
5.6%.
 Q4FY24 inflation projected at 5.2%, Q1FY25 at 5.2%, Q2FY25 at 4%, and Q3FY25 at 4.7%
Policy Rtaes:
Policy Repo Rate 6.50%
Standing Deposit Facility Rate 6.25%
Marginal Standing Facility Rate 6.75%
Bank Rate 6.75%
Fixed Reverse Repo Rate 3.35%
Learn Along:
About RBI Monetary Policy
 Under the Reserve Bank of India, Act,1934 (RBI Act,1934) (as amended in 2016), RBI is entrusted with the
responsibility of conducting monetary policy in India with the primary objective of maintaining price stability
while keeping in mind the objective of growth.
 Section 45ZB of the amended RBI Act, 1934 provides for an empowered six-member monetary policy
committee (MPC) to be constituted by the Central Government by notification in the Official Gazette.
 The first such MPC was constituted on September 29, 2016.
 The present MPC members, as notified by the Central Government in the Official Gazette of October 5, 2020, are
as under:
1.Governor of the Reserve Bank of India—Chairperson, ex officio;

2.Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, in charge of Monetary Policy—Member, ex officio
3.One officer of the Reserve Bank of India to be nominated by the Central Board—Member, ex officio;
4.Prof. Ashima Goyal, Professor, Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research —Member;
5.Prof. Jayanth R. Varma, Professor, Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad—Member; and
6.Dr. Shashanka Bhide, Senior Advisor, National Council of Applied Economic Research, Delhi—Member.
 Members referred to at 4 to 6 above, will hold office for a period of four years or until further orders, whichever
is earlier)
 The MPC determines the policy repo rate required to achieve the inflation target.
 The MPC is required to meet at least four times in a year.
 The quorum for the meeting of the MPC is four members.
 Each member of the MPC has one vote, and in the event of an equality of votes, the Governor has a second or
casting vote.
Withdrawal of ₹2000 Denomination Banknotes
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had announced the withdrawal of ₹2000 denomination banknotes
from circulation vide Press Release 2023-2024/257 dated May 19, 2023.
 The status of withdrawal of ₹2000 banknotes has been periodically published by the RBI.

Weekly BeePedia
 The facility for deposit and / or exchange of the ₹2000 banknotes was available at all bank
branches in the country initially upto September 30, 2023, which was later extended upto October 07,
2023.
 The facility for exchange of the ₹2000 banknotes was also available at the 19 Issue Offices of the Reserve
Bank (RBI Issue Offices)1 from May 19, 2023.
 The total value of ₹2000 banknotes in circulation, which amounted to ₹3.56 lakh crore as at the close
of business on May 19, 2023 when the withdrawal of ₹2000 banknotes was announced, has declined
to ₹9,760 crore as at the close of business on November 30, 2023.
 Thus, 97.26% of the ₹2000 banknotes in circulation as on May 19, 2023, has since been returned.
 The ₹2000 banknotes continue to be legal tender.
GST revenues rise to ₹1.68 lakh cr. in November; fastest growth this fiscal
 India's GST revenues for November surged by 15.1% to reach nearly ₹1.68 lakh crore, marking the
third-highest monthly collection in 2023.
 This growth rate is the fastest in the current fiscal year, surpassing the 10-month high of 13.4% in
October.
 Taxes from domestic transactions and services imports experienced a growth of over 20%,
marking the sixth instance in the fiscal year where revenues crossed ₹1.6 lakh crore.
 November's GST revenues comprised Central GST of ₹30,420 crore, State GST of ₹38,226 crore, and
Integrated IGST of ₹87,009 crore, including ₹39,198 crore from the import of goods.
 GST Compensation Cess inflows were ₹12,274 crore, with ₹1,036 crore collected on imported goods.
 From April to November 2023, GST revenues witnessed an 11.9% increase compared to the same
period in 2022-23.
 Among the states, Manipur recorded negative revenue growth with a 21% fall, while the Union
Territory of Lakshadweep experienced a 15% drop.
 Revenues in 13 states grew at or above the 20% national average pace from domestic transactions,
with Nagaland (99%), Arunachal Pradesh (48%), and Haryana (44%) leading the way.
Learn Along:
About GST
 The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax levied on most goods and services sold for domestic
consumption.
 The GST is paid by consumers, but it is remitted to the government by the businesses selling the goods and
services.
 In India, GST Bill was first introduced in 2014 as The Constitution (122nd Amendment) Bill.
 This got an approval in 2016 and was renumbered in the statute by Rajya Sabha as The Constitution (101st
Amendment) Act, 2016.
UPI transaction value hits new high at ₹17.4 lakh crore in November
 UPI platform processes transactions worth ₹17.40 lakh crore, a new record surpassing October's
₹17.16 lakh crore.
 According to NPCI data, Transaction value increases by 1.4% month-on-month and 46% year-on-year.
 Number of UPI transactions falls slightly by 1.5% to 1,124 crore from the previous month but
increases by 54% on a yearly basis.

Weekly BeePedia
 Year-on-year growth in UPI transactions remains over 40% for the value of transactions and above
50% for the volume of UPI trades in FY24.
 In FY23, UPI processed 8,376 crore transactions worth ₹139 lakh crore, compared to 4,597 crore
transactions worth ₹84 lakh crore in FY22.
 UPI transactions projected to exceed 100 crore per day by FY27, dominating the retail digital
payments landscape.
Learn Along:
About UPI
 UPI, or Unified Payments Interface, is a digital payments system that allows users to transfer money between
bank accounts instantly.
 Launched in India in 2017, UPI has since gained tremendous popularity and is now used by millions of people for
fast and convenient money transfers.
 UPI is operated by NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) and is linked to various bank accounts,
credit/debit cards, and digital wallets.
 With UPI, users can make payments for goods and services, pay bills, and transfer money to friends and
family members.
UBS fined nearly $400 mn over Credit Suisse's relationship with Archegos
 Swiss banking giant UBS to pay nearly $400 million in fines to US, Swiss, and UK banking
authorities for management failures related to Credit Suisse's handling of collapsed hedge fund
Archegos Capital Management.
 Archegos' failure in 2021 led to significant losses for Wall Street banks, with Credit Suisse bearing
the brunt, incurring over $5 billion in losses.
 Credit Suisse's management gave Archegos special treatment through its prime brokerage
division, leading to undue risk when Archegos acquired a highly concentrated position in ViacomCBS.
 Despite repeated warnings, Credit Suisse failed to adequately manage the risk posed by Archegos,
as stated by the Federal Reserve in a joint announcement with the Bank of England and the Swiss
Financial Market Supervisory Authority.
Govt to pump in additional Rs 1,500 crore for FAME-II subsidy scheme
 The Centre has sanctioned an additional Rs 1,500 crore for the second phase of the Faster
Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India (FAME-II) programme.
 The enhancement increases the outlay for FAME-II from Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 11,500 crore to
address potential fund exhaustion before the scheme's deadline in March 2024.
 The proposal for additional funds was approved by the department of expenditure (DoE) considering
the scheme's objectives.
 The MHI was allocated Rs 5,127 crore for the current financial year, the highest since the Rs 10,000-
crore scheme launch in 2019.
 Anticipating a surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales, especially electric two-wheelers (e2Ws), the ministry
expedited the allocation for the current financial year.
 To sustain the scheme, the ministry reduced the maximum subsidy for e2Ws and requested an
additional Rs 1,500 crore from the finance ministry.
 The government has raised its vehicle support objectives, targeting 1.74 million vehicles, indicating a
56% surge. Targets for e2Ws, e3Ws, and e4Ws were increased by 60%, 23%, and 177%, respectively.

Weekly BeePedia
 MHI's updated objectives aim to support 1.5 million e2Ws, 155,536 e3Ws, and 30,461 e4Ws, with the
bus target reduced to 7,062 units.
 The government is developing the forthcoming phase of the scheme, with discussions on its
mandatory nature within the Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister’s Office.
Learn Along:
About FAME Scheme Phase-II
 Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme Phase-II is
being implemented by the Ministry of Heavy Industries for a period of five years commencing from 1st
April,2019 with a total budgetary support of Rs. 10,000 crore.
 This phase mainly focuses on supporting electrification of public & shared transportation, and aims to
support through demand incentive 7090 eBuses, 5 lakh e-3 Wheelers, 55000 e-4 Wheeler Passenger Cars and
10 lakh e-2 Wheelers. In addition, creation of charging infrastructure is also supported under the Scheme.
India’s ReNew signs pact with Asian Development Bank for $5.3 billion
 India’s ReNew Energy Global signed a pact worth more than $5.3 billion with Asian Development
Bank to collaborate on projects related to tackling climate change.
 The memorandum of understanding, signed at the COP28 conference in Dubai, comes as demand for
clean energy is booming.
 ReNew added the pact covers projects between 2023 and 2028 with a total investment value of more
than $5.3 billion and is also expected to draw interest from international investors.
 With a portfolio of almost 14 GW of clean energy capacity, ReNew has already invested $8 billion in
the clean energy space and the pact will enable it to raise further funds for renewable energy projects.
 India is targeting net zero by 2070 and is looking to increase its non-fossil fuel power capacity to 500
GW by 2030, from 186 GW now.
Learn Along:
About Asian Development Bank
Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Philippines Founded: 19 December 1966 President: Masatsugu Asakawa
Himachal Pradesh tops unemployment chart in July-Sept: Labour Survey
 According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), Himachal Pradesh has witnessed the highest
overall unemployment rate of 33.9 per cent, followed by Rajasthan at 30.2 per cent, among the age
group of 15 to 29 years in cities during July-September 2023.
 The PLFS data of the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) also revealed that unemployment among
the 15-29 age group in urban areas was high among females at 49.2 per cent in the July-
September quarter of this fiscal year as compared to 25.3 per cent among males in Himachal Pradesh.
 in the case of Rajasthan, the joblessness in females in cities was high at 39.4 per cent in the
quarter as against 27.2 per cent in males.
 Jammu & Kashmir also reported a high rate of joblessness at 29.8 per cent in the age group in cities.
 In the case of Jammu & Kashmir, unemployment was high among females at 51.8 per cent in the
quarter compared to 19.8 per cent among males in the period in cities.
 The data showed that the overall unemployment in the country was 17.3 per cent in the 15-29 age
group in cities as per the current weekly status.

Weekly BeePedia
 The activity status determined on the basis of a reference period of the last seven days preceding the
date of survey is known as the current weekly status (CWS) of the person.
 The overall unemployment was high among 22.9 per cent in cities in the country in the 15-29 age
group compared to 15.5 per cent among females in the July-September quarter 2023, showed the
data.
 The survey conducted in 22 states, showed that the lowest unemployment rate was 7.1 per cent in
Gujarat followed by Delhi at 8.4 per cent in the July-September quarter among persons of the age group
of 15-29 per cent.
 Joblessness, or unemployment rate, is defined as the percentage of unemployed people in the
labour force.
 The NSSO launched PLFS in April 2017.
Trade strategy on table to achieve exports target of $2 trillion by 2030
 The government is formulating a new foreign trade strategy to achieve a target of $2 trillion in total
exports (goods and services) by 2030 and increase India's share in global trade from 2.7% to 10%.
 The Department of Commerce is finalizing a strategy paper, aligned with the vision of trade as a
multiplier of growth amid India's economic expansion.
 The strategy paper will address areas such as enhancing logistics, diversifying India’s merchandise
and services, and exploring new markets.
 NITI Aayog is separately working on India’s Vision for 2047, while the Department of Commerce
aims to focus on capturing the trade dimension on a granular basis.
 The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has recommended measures to empower
small businesses in the services sector, addressing challenges faced by micro, small, and medium
industries in government tenders.
 FIEO emphasized the need to reconsider financial criteria, such as annual revenue and workforce
requirements, to make tenders accessible for most MSMEs.
COP28: Adani Green Energy to invest $22 billion toward India's 2030 goal
 Adani Green Energy Ltd. will invest an additional $22 billion to expand capacity by over five times by
2030, focusing on India's steadily growing electricity demand.
 CEO Amit Singh emphasized the importance of focusing on the Indian market before exploring
foreign expansion, considering it in the "national interest and economic interest" for the company.
 India's electricity demand is growing at 7% annually, surpassing expansion rates in other economies,
leading the government to mandate additional renewable and thermal capacity to prevent blackouts.
 Adani Green Energy, owned by billionaire Gautam Adani, has seen its installed capacity more than
double in the past two years, contributing to increased profits.
 India aims to reduce its reliance on coal by reaching 500 gigawatts of clean capacity by 2030,
supported by business tycoons like Adani and Mukesh Ambani.
 Adani Green plans to spend $4.5 billion to add 8 gigawatts of installed capacity by March 2025, aiming
for 45 gigawatts by the end of the decade.

Weekly BeePedia
iVIS partners with ICICI Bank to Boost Security with Advanced E-Surveillance Services
 iVIS, a subsidiary of Magellanic Cloud, recently officially partnered with ICICI Bank for the distribution
of cutting-edge e-surveillance services across its branches.
 This collaboration will see iVIS deploying state-of-the-art AI/ML and IoT technology to deliver
services such as real-time video monitoring, facial recognition, incident detection, reporting, and
data analytics.
 The strategic alliance aims to fortify ICICI Bank’s branch-level security operations, specifically
targeting areas like ATMs and cash counter operations.
 iVIS will implement real-time threat mitigations, remote security management, and automated
response systems to ensure a comprehensive security infrastructure.
Learn Along:
About ICICI
Founded: 1994 Headquarters: Mumbai CEO: Sandeep Bakhshi
SBI MF gets RBI nod to buy 9.99% stake in Karur Vysya Bank
 The Reserve Bank has given its approval to SBI Mutual Fund (SBI MF) for acquiring up to 9.99% of
the paid-up share capital or voting rights of Karur Vysya Bank Ltd (KVB).
 If SBI MF fails to acquire major shareholding within a period of one year from the date of RBI’s
letter, this approval shall stand cancelled, the private sector lender said in a regulatory filing.
 Besides, SBI MF must ensure that the aggregate holding in the bank does not not exceed 9.99% at
all times.
 Further, if the aggregate holding falls below 5%, prior approval of RBI will be required to increase it
to 5% or more of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of KVB.
 KVB, meanwhile, announced the opening of four branches, of which three are in Tamil Nadu and
one in Bengaluru. With this, the total number of branches has increased to 831.
Learn Along:
About Karur Vysya Bank
Founded: 1916 Headquarters: Karur Chairperson: Dr Meena Hemchandra
HDFC Bank launches Tata Neu Credit Cards
 Tata Neu is a popular super app offering access to Tata Group services, deals, and NeuCoins.
 After the RBI lifted the ban, HDFC Bank kept adding credit cards. With Tata Neu, HDFC has released
Tata Neu HDFC Bank Infinity Credit Card and Tata Neu HDFC Plus Credit Card, offering diverse
rewards and benefits. With features like cashback, travel perks, and robust security measures, it caters
to various lifestyles.
 The launch reflects Tata's expansion into financial services, aiming to provide customers with a
seamless and rewarding payment experience.
Learn Along:
About HDFC Bank
Founded: August 1994, Mumbai Headquarters: Mumbai Chairman: Mr. Atanu Chakraborty

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IDFC First Bank unveils UPI-based digital RuPay credit card
 IDFC First Bank introduces a digital RuPay Credit Card powered for UPI for its customers.
 The digital card complements existing IDFC First Bank Credit Cards, combining UPI transaction
benefits with core credit card offerings.
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) formally approves linking RuPay credit cards to UPI for seamless
credit card-based payment experiences.
 The integration enhances flexibility and showcases the bank's commitment to continuous
innovation in empowering customers throughout their financial journey.
Learn Along:
About IDFC First Bank
 IDFC FIRST Bank was founded by the merger of Erstwhile IDFC Bank and Erstwhile Capital First on
December 18, 2018.
 Managing Director & CEO: Mr. V. Vaidyanathan
SEBI and FINANCIAL AWARENESS

Government of India and ADB sign $175 million loan to improve connectivity in Madhya Pradesh
 Government of India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) sign a $175 million loan for Madhya
Pradesh road improvement.
 Signatories: Ms. Juhi Mukherjee (Government of India) and Takeo Konishi (Country Director of ADB’s
India Resident Mission).
 The Project aims to enhance connectivity in Madhya Pradesh's state road network across 14 districts
for balanced economic development.
 ADB supported road development in Madhya Pradesh since 2002, upgrading over 9,000 kilometers
of state highways and major district roads.
 The project will upgrade 500 kilometers of roads to a standard two-lane feature, incorporating
climate- and disaster-resilient design, innovative road safety elements, and facilities for diverse needs.
 ADB to build the capacity of Madhya Pradesh Road Development Corporation Limited (MPRDC) on
climate change adaptation, disaster resilience, and road safety.
 Capacity building to include strategies for green technology in road construction and charging
infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Learn Along:
About ADB
Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Philippines Founded: 19 December 1966 President: Masatsugu Asakawa
IIFL Home Finance Ltd. presents the 15th chapter of 'Kutumb' in collaboration with Asian
Development Bank (ADB)
 Asian Development Bank (ADB) signs a USD 68 million loan with IIFL HFL for green, affordable
housing in India.
 'Kutumb' event hosted jointly by IIFL HFL and ADB focuses on fostering the green building
ecosystem in India's affordable housing sector.
 The partnership includes a Technical Assistance (TA) program for the sustainability of green
construction practices in affordable housing.

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 The TA initiative is named 'Enabling the ecosystem to improve access to green affordable housing
for women.'
 The Kutumb event is the 15th chapter and the 10th in the series with ADB, emphasizing green
affordable housing.
 IIFL HFL has served over 250,000 customers with 'Kutumb.'
 It Facilitated a credit-linked subsidy of over Rs 1,746 crore to 72,000+ households under PMAY (U)
as of August 31, 2023.
 The Kutumb event aims to create opportunities for accessible green housing for everyone.
 It has successfully taken place in various cities, contributing to the transformation from 'Housing for
All' to 'Green Housing for All.'
India's Stock Market Achieves $4 Trillion Market Capitalization
 The Indian equity market made history by achieving a significant milestone, with the total market
capitalization of all BSE-listed stocks hitting the $4 trillion mark.
 Among the top five global markets, the Indian stock market is ranked fifth in terms of market value,
following the United States, China, Japan, and Hong Kong.
 The surge in midcap and smallcap stocks heightened engagement from retail investors, and the
remarkable resilience of the economy collectively played pivotal roles in driving this noteworthy
development.
 The rally in midcap and smallcap stocks, often indicative of increased market dynamism and risk
appetite, contributed substantially to the overall market capitalization surge.
 The economy's resilience, marked by robust economic indicators and adaptive policies, provided a
stable foundation for investor confidence and market expansion.
 The drop in crude oil prices has further contributed to the positive economic outlook by alleviating
concerns related to inflation and trade balances. FIIs, previously on a selling streak, have also now
reversed course and turned into net buyers of Indian stocks.
L&T Finance Holdings completes merger of 3 of its subsidiaries with itself
 L&T Finance Holdings Ltd announced that it has completed the merger of its three subsidiaries L&T
Finance Limited (LTF), L&T Infra Credit Limited (LTICL) and L&T Mutual Fund Trustee Limited, with
itself.
 The merger is effective from December 4 and will create a single lending entity.
 The merger will lead to the creation of a simplified 'Single Lending Entity'; thus, housing all lending
businesses under one operating Non-Banking Financial Company.
 All of the lending business will now be housed under L&T Finance Holdings Ltd.
 The merger was initially approved in January this year, and it had received approval from the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) in March.
Learn Along:
About L&T Finance Holdings Ltd
Founded: 1994 CEO: Dinanath Dubhashi Headquarters: Mumbai
Comviva fined Rs 1 lakh for delay in CSR fund transfer to PM Relief
 IT company Tech Mahindra Group firm Comviva has been penalised Rs 1 lakh for the delay in
transferring unspent corporate social responsibility obligation to the Prime Minister's National Relief

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Fund for the FY ended March 31, 2021, within the prescribed period of 6 months of the expiry of the
financial year as per the Companies Act, 2013.
 The Ministry of Corporate Affairs' Regional Director for the Northern Region has ruled against an appeal
filed by Comviva against the order of the Registrar of Companies, which imposed a penalty of Rs 1
lakh on the company for the delay.
Learn Along:
About CSR
 Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to the ethical, social, and environmental impacts of a company's
actions.
 It involves a company taking account of its responsibilities and obligations to various stakeholders, including
customers, employees, suppliers, and the wider community.
 CSR can include activities such as charitable giving, reducing environmental impact, promoting diversity
and inclusion, and ensuring ethical business practices.
 Many companies adopt CSR policies as a way to build brand reputation, improve relationships with
stakeholders, and enhance long-term sustainability.
Foreign flows into Indian bonds hit 6-year high ahead of index inclusion
 Foreign inflows into Indian government bonds surged to a six-year high in November ahead of
inclusion in JPMorgan's emerging market index.
 Foreign portfolio investors purchased a net 127.2 billion rupees ($1.53 billion) of bonds, the highest
since June 2017.
 Around 96.6 billion rupees of purchases were securities with no investment limit, set to be included
in the JPMorgan index.
 Standard Chartered Bank expects foreign buying in Indian bonds to continue until June, when
inclusion in the JPMorgan index is anticipated.
 JPMorgan announced a 10% weightage for India in its index, to be phased in between June 2024
and March 2025.
 The FTSE Russell excluded Indian securities from its index, while Bloomberg's decision is
awaited; expectations suggest potential inflows of $25 billion.
 Foreign ownership of Indian sovereign bonds, currently at 1.9% of federal debt, is expected to rise
with increased inflows.
Learn Along:
About Foreign Inflows
 Foreign inflows refer to the flow of capital from other countries into an economy.
 This can include investments in stocks, bonds, real estate, and other assets.
 Foreign inflows can have a significant impact on the economy, as they provide additional liquidity and can help
stimulate growth.
 They can also lead to increased competition and higher valuations for assets.
 It's important for countries to carefully manage their foreign inflows to ensure they are in line with their
economic goals and levels of development.
NABARD and AGRICULTURE

India’s tea production rose by more than 12% in October

Weekly BeePedia
 India’s tea production increased by 12.06% to 182.84 million kilograms (kg) in October as compared
to 163.15 million kg in the corresponding month last year.
 According to Tea Board data, production of the crop in West Bengal rose to 54.98 million kg in
October, as against 49.75 million kg in the same period last year.
 Assam, the country’s largest tea-producing state, also registered a higher crop at 104.26 million kg in
October.
 The state produced 90.72 million kg of tea in October 2022.
 In south India, production was marginally lower at 18.89 million kg in October, as against 18.92
million kg in the same month of the previous calendar year.
 Category-wise, production of the CTC variety touched 167.72 million kg in October 2023, whereas
that of orthodox tea was 12.98 million kg across both north and south India.
 Green tea production was at 2.14 million kg. Production by small tea growers stood higher at 95.24
million kg in October 2023 across the country, compared to 78.19 million kg in October 2022.
KISAN E-MITRA
 The PM-KISAN scheme is a central sector scheme launched in February 2019 to supplement the
financial needs of land-holding farmers.
 Under this scheme, the financial benefit of Rs 6,000/- per year in three equal instalments every
four months is transferred into the bank accounts of farmers' families across the country through Direct
Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
 A farmer-centric digital infrastructure has ensured the benefits of the scheme reach all the
farmers across the country without any involvement of the middlemen.
 Maintaining absolute transparency in registering and verifying beneficiaries, the Government of India
has disbursed over Rs 2.80 lakh Cr to more than 11 Cr farmers.
 Under the PM-KISAN scheme, a robust grievance redressal system is in place.
 The farmers can lodge their grievances on the PM-KISAN portal and 24x7 IVRS facility for effective
and timely resolution.
 In addition to the above, the Government of India has developed Kisan e-Mitra (AI Chatbot) –
Farmers’ digital assistance to address their queries in their own languages, thereby empowering the
farmers through technological interventions. The Kisan e-Mitra is removing the existing technological
and language barriers of the farmers.
 The Kisan-eMitra, AI Chatbot is initially available in 5 languages i.e. English, Hindi, Odiya, Tamil
and Bangla.
 The Government of India has developed the PM-KISAN mobile app with the feature of face
authentication-based e-KYC.
 This app is first mobile app which uses face authentication-based e-KYC feature in any benefit
scheme of the Government.
 It empowers the farmers to complete their eKYC sitting at home even in remote areas of the country
without any OTP or fingerprint, just by scanning their face.
Funds Granted for Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

Weekly BeePedia
 During last three years (2020-21 to 2022-23) and the current year (2023-24), the Department of
Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, under Pradhan
Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has accorded approvals to the fisheries developmental
proposals of Government of Kerala amounting to Rs.903.32 crore and released central funds of
Rs.239.27crore for development of fisheries and fishers welfare in the State.
 Out of the central funds of Rs.239.27 crore released during the Financial Years 2020-21 to 2022-23
Government of Kerala has reported expenditure of Rs.213.02 crore towards implementation of
approved fisheries developmental activities in the State and has also submitted Utilization Certificates
amounting to Rs. 144.35 crore.
 PMMSY has been receiving overwhelming response from all the States/UTs including Kerala.
 The PMMSY projects approved to Government of Kerala are being successfully implemented.
 PMMSY is implemented through respective State Government/Union Territory and district-wise
allocation of funds within the State/UT are also made by the concerned State Government/UT
Administrations.
 The State Government of Kerala has informed that during FY 2020-21 to 2022-23, district of
Kozhikode was allotted an amount of Rs. 368.18 lakh for development of fisheries out of which the
district has so far made expenditure of Rs.300.69 lakh towards implementation of approved projects.
Learn Along:
About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
 Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is a central government initiative aimed at improving the
fish industry in India.
 Launched in 2019-2020, the scheme provides a financial package of INR 20,000 crore to be invested in various
sectors such as marine infrastructure, fish processing and marketing, and fisheries research and
development.
 The objectives of the yojana include increasing fish production, improving the marketability of fish
products, and enhancing the income of fish farmers.
 The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
 Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra campaigns are being held across the country to raise awareness
through outreach activities and achieve saturation of various welfare programs launched by the
Centre.
 The Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November
15th on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas at Khunti, Jharkhand.
 The yatra aims to cover all gram panchayats and urban local bodies through IEC vans and camps of
various schemes organised at each location.
 Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar is monitoring of Vikas
Bharat Sankalp Yatra daily for its smooth operations.
 Narendra Singh Tomar is taking information about the progress of Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra from the
nodal officers and other top officials of the states through meetings/virtual meetings.

Weekly BeePedia
 Currently the Yatra is going on in 26 states/UTs. So far, about 30 thousands Gram Panchayats have
been covered, where about 80 lakh people have participated and took a pledge to create a
developed India.
NATIONAL
India and Nepal hold Projects Portfolio Performance Review meeting
 The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu and Nepal's Ministry of Finance held the Projects Portfolio
Performance Review Meeting.
 During the meeting, discussions were held on ongoing projects in various sectors under the India-
Nepal development cooperation framework both under grant assistance and under various lines of
credit.
 The Indian side was led by India's Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava.
 For the meeting, Nepal's Finance Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat led Nepal's side.
 India is the largest and most prominent development partner of Nepal. India-Nepal development
partnership which began in 1951 has continued and expanded over the last seven decades.
 The projects under Development partnership have been diverse in size and sector with
geographical spread throughout Nepal.
Textiles Ministry to host global meet on cotton from Dec. 2-5
 Over 400 delegates from 35 countries are expected to participate in the 81st plenary meeting of the
International Cotton Advisory Committee, to be hosted in Mumbai by the Indian office of textile
commissioner from December 2 to 5.
 The theme of this meeting is 'Cotton Value Chain: Local Innovations for Global prosperity', focused
on sustainable technologies.
 Associate hosts are the Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI), the Confederation of Indian Textile
Industry (CITI) and the Cotton Association of India (CAI).
 The previous such event was hosted by India in 2015 with the theme ‘From Farm to Fabric: The Many
Faces of Cotton’, focusing on value addition.
 This is also the fifth time that the ICAC plenary meeting is being held in India in the last six decades,
a textiles ministry release said.
 The 80th plenary meeting was held through virtual platform between November and December last year
with the theme ‘Driving Sustainability through Innovation and Leadership’.
 Indian minister of textiles and commerce and industry Piyush Goyal will inaugurate the meeting.
 The 81st plenary aims to serve as a platform for sharing innovations, benchmarks, sound practices
and experiences across the globe on productivity, climate resilience and circularity for a vibrant cotton
economy.
 India is also gearing up to host the world's largest textile exposition, Bharat Tex 2024, from February
26 to 29 next year in New Delhi.
Learn Along:
About ICAC
 Formed in 1939, ICAC is an inter-governmental body covering cotton recognised by the United Nations.
 It has 28 members.

Weekly BeePedia
 India, Brazil, Egypt, France, Sudan and the United States were the founding members.
NLCIL Signs MoU with TNSDC & NTTF for Skill Development Training Programme for Unemployed
Youth
 NLC India Limited, a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Coal, entered into a tripartite Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU)in Chennai with Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC), the
Nodal Agency of Government of Tamil Nadu for skill development and M/s Nettur Technical Training
Foundation (NTTF), Bengaluru, a pioneer institution on providing skill training to unemployed youth, to
meet the present industry demands.
 This collaboration of NLCIL, TNSDC & NTTF will impart job-oriented skill development training for
540 wards of project affected families (PAFs’) of NLCIL’s operating areas in Neyveli.
 NLCIL has committed to spend Rs1.12 lakh per candidate for this free residential programme under
its budget for Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R).
 This programme will help the candidates to become technically trained and get employment
opportunities in premier companies.
Learn Along:
About NLC India
Founded: 1956 Headquarters: Neyveli, Tamil Nadu, India
India joins Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission
 India has been unanimously elected as a member representing Asian region in the Executive
Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) during its 46th meeting being held at FAO
Headquarters at Rome.
 Executive Committee is an important arm of the CAC and the member countries have a considerable
interest in getting its membership.
 In this capacity, India would not only get an opportunity to contribute substantially in the
International standard setting process for different food product categories but will also be involved in
the decision making process.
 The Executive Committee supports in the management of the Commission’s programme of standards
development by conducting a "critical review" of proposals to undertake work and monitors the progress
of standards development.
 The Executive Committee comprises of the Chair, three vice Chairs, six regional coordinators and
seven elected representatives from the various geographical regions of Codex.
National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) meets to review preparedness for impending
cyclonic storm ‘Michaung’ in Bay of Bengal
 National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) under Chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary Rajiv
Gauba to review preparedness of State governments and Central Ministries/ Departments for
impending cyclone ‘Michaung’ in Bay of Bengal.
 The Cyclonic Storm over southwest Bay of Bengal moved northwestwards with a speed of 9 kmph
over the same region near east-southeast of Puducherry, 250 km southeast of Chennai, 380 km south-
southeast of Nellore, 490 km south-southeast of Bapatla and 500 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam.

Weekly BeePedia
 It is likely to continue to move northwestwards, intensify further and reach westcentral Bay of Bengal
off south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by 4th December forenoon.
 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 21 teams in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and
Puducherry and 08additional teams have been kept in reserve.
Extension of benefits of PMUY
 Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) initiated in May 2016 aims to provide clean cooking fuel to
poor households in India.
 PMUY offers deposit-free LPG connections to adult women from economically disadvantaged
households.
 As of October 31, 2023, there are 9.67 Crore active LPG connections under PMUY, including 69.26
lakh connections in Rajasthan.
 The government introduced a targeted subsidy of ₹200 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills annually
to PMUY consumers in May 2022.
 In October 2023, the targeted subsidy was increased to ₹300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills
annually.
 As part of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package from April 2020 to December 2020, the
government provided up to 3 free refills to PMUY beneficiaries.
 A total of 14.17 crore free refills were distributed across the country under this scheme.
Learn Along:
About PMUY
 In May 2016, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MOPNG), introduced the ‘Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana’
(PMUY) as a flagship scheme with an objective to make clean cooking fuel such as LPG available to the
rural and deprived households which were otherwise using traditional cooking fuels such as firewood, coal, cow-
dung cakes etc. Usage of traditional cooking fuels had detrimental impacts on the health of rural women as well as
on the environment.
 The scheme was launched on 1st May 2016 in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri.
Narendra Modi.
INTERNATIONAL
U.S., U.K., Australia defence chiefs tout deep space radar and AI in joint deal

Weekly BeePedia
 The defence chiefs of the U.S., Australia and Britain met in California, touting high-tech cooperation
on deep space radar, AI and quantum computing systems aimed at bolstering their forces in the face
of global threats, including from China.
 The three Chiefs huddled in Silicon Valley — the heart of the U.S. tech sector — to build on the so-called
AUKUS (Australia, U.K., U.S.) partnership launched in September 2021.
 AUKUS is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will promote peace and security throughout the
Indo-Pacific,” U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told reporters.
 The focus was on the cutting edge, including the development of what they called a “Deep Space
Advanced Radar Capability” program, which will see radar detection sites in all three countries by the
end of the decade, with the capacity to peer 35,000-km into space.
Learn Along:
About USA
President: Joe Biden Capital: Washington, D.C. Currency: US Doller
About UK
Prime minister: Rishi Sun Capital: London Currency: Pound sterling
About Australia
Capital : Canberra Currency: Australian dollar Prime Minister: Anthony Albanese
UAE announces $30-bn fund to boost climate investments
 UAE announces a $30-billion commitment to the ALTÉRRA investment fund during COP-28, aimed
at mobilizing $250 billion globally by 2030 for climate investments.
 ALTÉRRA, a privately managed fund, is set to be the largest of its kind, focusing on transforming
emerging markets and developing economies.
 ALTÉRRA's focus includes four key verticals: Energy Transition, Industrial Decarbonization,
Sustainable Living, and Climate Technologies.
 The fund aims to address the annual need of $2.4 trillion by 2030 in emerging markets and developing
economies to combat climate change.
 ALTÉRRA is positioned as a transformative solution for attracting private capital, aligning with the
COP Presidency's Action Agenda and the UAE's commitment to making climate finance available and
affordable.
 ALTÉRRA is established by Lunate, an independent global investment manager, and is domiciled
in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.
Learn Along:
About UAE
President: Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Capital: Abu Dhabi Currency: UAE dirham
Sierra Leone signs MOU with China firm for Freetown bridge – government statement
 Sierra Leone has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Road and Bridge
Corporation and Atepa Group’s architectural firm to build an eight-kilometer (5 mile) bridge with an
estimated cost of about $1.5 billion.
 The bridge will link the capital Freetown to the town of Lungi, which is an airport hub.

Weekly BeePedia
 A feasibility study for the project is expected to be completed in the next few months and
construction to begin in the last quarter of 2024, after which it is estimated to take about three years
to build.
Learn Along:
About Sierra Leone
Capital: Freetown Currency: Leone
US pledges $3 billion for climate aid to developing countries at COP28
 The US pledges $3 billion to the Green Climate Fund at COP-28 to aid developing countries in
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
 This commitment enhances the credibility of rich nations' promises of aid at the climate talks in
Dubai.
 The funding will be part of the second round of replenishment for the Green Climate Fund, bringing
it to its highest level yet.
 The US administration's commitment reflects a steady increase in climate finance directed toward
addressing climate change in recent years.
 US international climate finance reached $5.8 billion in 2022, compared to $1.5 billion in 2021 under
the Trump administration.
 The new funding, for the years 2024 through 2028, depends on appropriations from the US Congress
and aims to fulfill President Joe Biden's ambition to provide over $11 billion in 2024.
 The US support for international adaptation work increased from about $269 million in 2021 to
approximately $2.3 billion in 2022.
 The Green Climate Fund aims to address the annual need of $2.4 trillion by 2030 in emerging markets
and developing economies to combat climate change.
Learn Along:
About USA
President: Joe Biden Capital: Washington, D.C. Currency: US Doller
India provides $250 mn Line of Credit to Kenya
 India extended a $250 million Line of Credit for modernisation of agriculture in Kenya.
 Both sides will carry out joint military exercises and will collaborate on counter-terror projects.
 Welcoming the Indian initiatives, President William Samoei Ruto, described the Indian community
of Kenya as a “bridge” between the two countries and said Indians residing in Kenya regard his country
as their “first country”.
Learn Along:
About Kenya
Capital: Nairobi President: William Ruto Currency: Kenyan shilling
US: Ohio reports ‘white lung syndrome’ outbreak
 Cases of a mystery illness called 'White Lung Syndrome' , a form of pneumonia, have risen globally,
with some cases reported in Europe, followed by the US and China.
 The broader type of pneumonia has already reached 'epidemic' levels in Denmark, according to
The Mirror.

Weekly BeePedia
 Epidemic levels reported in Denmark, with a notable spike in the Netherlands, particularly among
children.
 The syndrome is caused by a bacterial infection called mycoplasma pneumoniae.
 Common symptoms include fever, coughing, fatigue, shortness of breath, and the production of
specific lung-throat mucus (phlegm).
World Bank Steps Up Efforts to Address Methane Emissions
 The World Bank is taking bold action to decisively bend the methane emission curve, announcing
its intent to launch at least 15 country-led programs in the next 18 months.
 These programs will aim to slash up to 10 million tons of methane (over investment lifespans).
 Addressing methane emissions is a cost-effective way to reduce the dangerous rise in global
temperatures and support billions of people on the front lines of climate change.
 It is essential to the World Bank’s impact-focused climate action plan and its vision of creating a
world free of poverty on a livable planet.
 The new national programs build on successful pilots that have delivered transformative solutions
for rice production, livestock operations, and waste management.
 These interventions have improved water management of rice paddies and rice straw composting,
supported sustainable livestock management through advanced food practices, selective breeding,
and better manure treatment; and diverted organic waste from landfills and more efficiently managed
biogas.
 Deploying the best available technologies, methane emissions from rice production can be reduced
by up to 40%, for livestock by up to 30%, and for waste by up to 80%.
 Methane represents about 19% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
 Rice production accounts for 8%, livestock 32%, and waste 18% of all human-driven methane
emissions.
 These efforts will be complemented by simple and effective solutions for reducing methane
emissions from the power sector.
 The World Bank is working with Germany, Norway, the United States, the UAE and the private
sector to expand on long-standing efforts to significantly cut methane emissions across the whole energy
value chain.
 Related to these efforts, the World Bank is launching two partnership platforms for accelerated
methane action: The Global Methane Reduction Platform for Development (CH4D), a hub for
methane abatement in agriculture and waste, and the Global Flaring and Methane Reduction
Partnership (GFMR) focuses on reducing methane leaks in the oil and gas sector.
Learn Along:
About World Bank
 The World Bank Group is one of the world’s largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing
countries.
 Its five institutions share a commitment to reducing poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting
sustainable development.
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States Founded: July 1944 President:Ajay Banga

Weekly BeePedia
Italy pulls out of flagship Chinese project
 Italy has announced its withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
 Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's administration notified Beijing of the decision ahead of the year-end
deadline.
 Italy was the only major Western nation to join the BRI in 2019, a move criticized by the US and
others.
 Italy's BRI membership, the largest among 18 EU members, was set to renew automatically in March
2024 unless it notified China of withdrawal by the end of 2023.
 Only a fraction of the promised €20 billion investment in Italy by China in 2019 has materialized,
and trade imbalances exist between the two countries.
 The BRI, launched in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, aims to invest around $1 trillion across
Asia and Europe in infrastructure projects.
Learn Along:
About Italy
Capital: Rome Currency: Euro Prime Minister: Giorgia Meloni
STATES
Centre announces ₹1,500-cr. aid to Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh after cyclone wreaks havoc
 The Union government releases ₹493.60 crore to Andhra Pradesh and ₹450 crore to Tamil Nadu for
cyclone Michaung damage.
 An additional ₹561.29 crore approved for flood mitigation efforts in Chennai.
 The approved project, under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund, aims at integrated urban flood
management activities for the Chennai Basin.
Learn Along:
About Tamilnadu
Chief minister: M. K. Stalin Governor: R. N. Ravi Capital: Chennai
About Andhra Pradesh
Capital: Amaravati Chief minister: YS Jagan Mohan Reddy Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
Divya Kala Mela 2023 inaugurated in Patna

Weekly BeePedia
 Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) is organizing 'Divya Kala

Mela' from 8-17th December, 2023 Showcasing products and craftsmanship of Divyang
entrepreneurs/artisans from across the country.
 It was Inaugurated on 8th December, 2023, by Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice &
Empowerment.
 It is a unique initiative for the economic empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PwD/Divyangjan).
 This is the eleventh event in the series, with previous editions held in Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal,
Guwahati, Indore, Varanasi, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
 Product categories include Home Décor & Lifestyle, Clothing, Stationery, Eco-friendly products,
Packaged food, Toys & Gifts, Personal Accessories (Jewellery, Clutch Bags).
 Opportunity to support 'vocal for local' and purchase products made by Divyang craftsmen.
Learn Along:
About Bihar
Capital: Patna Chief minister: Nitish Kumar Governor: Rajendra Arlekar
Garba dance of Gujarat makes it to UNESCO list
 Gujarat’s traditional dance form ‘Garba’ was included in the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage by
the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
 The popular dance form is the 15th cultural item from India to make it to the UNESCO list.
 Kolkata’s Durga Puja was the last one added two years ago.
 The inclusion has been made under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of
Intangible Cultural Heritage.
 The international cultural body described the ‘Garba’ as a ritualistic and devotional dance performed
India.
About UNESCO
 The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established on 16 November
1945.
 UNESCO has 195 Members and 8 Associate Members and is governed by the General Conference and the
Executive Board.
 The Secretariat, headed by the Director-General, implements the decisions of these two bodies.
 Director-General : Audrey Azoulay
About Gujarat
Capital: Gandhinagar Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel Governor: Acharya Devvrat
Revanth Reddy set to become Telangana’s first Congress CM
 In Telangana A Revanth Reddy would be the new chief minister.

 After the Congress ended the BRS’s nine-year rule by winning 64 seats, the party was in a quandary
as there were more than one probables in the race to helm the first Congress government in the state,
which the party-led UPA government helped create in 2014.
Learn Along:
About Telangana
Governor: Tamilisai Soundararajan Founded: 2 June 2014 Capital: Hyderabad

Weekly BeePedia
To check cheating, school board exam to go live in Odisha
 In an attempt to address the issue of malpractice and mismanagement, Odisha’s School and Mass
Education Department has decided to livestream the proceedings at examination centres during the
2024 Plus Two examinations.
 Though almost all examinations are under close circuit television supervision, the government
decided to elevate the level of security by making the examinations live.
 This will be the first livestreaming of any examination in the State.
Learn Along:
About Odisha
Chief minister: Naveen Patnaik Founded: 1 April 1936
Capital: Bhubaneswar Governor: Raghubar Das
Kerala to host transplant games to promote organ donation
 Aimed at demonstrating that a thriving life is possible for organ transplanted people and promoting
the cause of organ donation, Heart Care Foundation will organise Transplant Games for organ donors
and recipients in Kochi on December 9.
 The games will be held across three venues – Regional Sports Centre, Jawaharlal Nehru International
Stadium, and Lulu Mall.
 Regional Sports Centre is the main venue of the transplant games.
 Heart Care Foundation is organising the games in association with the Kerala State Organ and Tissue
Transplant Organisation (K-SOTTO), Kochi Corporation, KMRL, Regional Sports Centre, GCDA, Lulu
Group, Kerala State Youth Welfare Board and Liver Foundation of Kerala (LIFOK).
Learn Along:
About Kerala
Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan Founded: 1 November 1956
Governor: Arif Mohammed Khan Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
Odisha registers over 100% growth in GST collection at Rs 2,791 cr in Nov
 Odisha registered a phenomenal growth rate of 100.77 per cent in State GST with a collection of Rs
2791.45 crore in November 2023 against a collection of Rs 1390.36 crore in the corresponding
month last year.
 The progressive collection of State GST (OGST+IGST Settlement) up to the month of November'23 is
Rs 14,913.16 crore against a collection of Rs 11,719.64 crore in November '22, registering a growth rate
of 27.25 per cent.
 The collection under all Acts monitored by the commissionerate of CT & GST, Odisha, including
OGST/ IGST Settlement / VAT/ Entry Tax and Profession Tax during November 2023 is Rs 3,856.72 crore
against a collection of Rs 2,308.92 crore during November 2022 with a growth rate of 67.04%, it said.
 The progressive collection under all Acts up to November 2023 is Rs 22,510.56 crore with a growth
rate of 18.91% over corresponding collection till November 2022.
 With regard to Gross GST collection (CGST+IGST+SGST+Cess), the state has recorded a collection of
Rs 4,295.08 crore during November 2023 against collection of Rs 4162.26 crore during November 2022
with a growth rate of 3.19%.

Weekly BeePedia
 The progressive Gross GST collection during financial year 2023-24 (till November 23) is Rs 35188.25
crore with growth of 9.75% over corresponding period of FY 2022-23.
Learn Along:
About GST
 The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax levied on most goods and services sold for domestic
consumption.
 The GST is paid by consumers, but it is remitted to the government by the businesses selling the goods and
services.
 In India, GST Bill was first introduced in 2014 as The Constitution (122nd Amendment) Bill.
 This got an approval in 2016 and was renumbered in the statute by Rajya Sabha as The Constitution (101st
Amendment) Act, 2016.
About Odisha
Chief minister: Naveen Patnaik Capital: Bhubaneswar Governor: Raghubar Das
Union Minister for Power RK Singh inaugurates National Conference on "Energy Transition in India
in Gandhinagar
 Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy, R.K. Singh, inaugurates a two-day
National Conference on "Energy Transition in India - Road Travelled and Opportunities Ahead" in
Gandhinagar.
 Organized as part of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, attended by 250+ representatives from
the power and renewable energy sector.
 Focus on scaling up renewable energy, addressing challenges in grid integration, financing tools,
and developing supporting infrastructure.
 India aims to reduce the emission intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 compared to the 2005 level.
 Gujarat ranks first in installed wind power capacity (25% of the country's total) and rooftop solar
capacity (26% of India's total).
Learn Along:
About Gujarat
Governor: Acharya Devvrat Capital: Gandhinagar Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel
Drug major AstraZeneca commits $71 mn to Meghalaya's forestry project
 AstraZeneca announces $71 million funding for a global forest program to plant and maintain 64
million plants and trees, primarily in Meghalaya, India.
 The initiative is part of AstraZeneca's commitment to plant 200 million trees across six continents by
2030.
 Collaboration with Earthbanc, Earthtree, Worldview Impact India, and the Hill Farmers Shiitake
Mushroom Coop Society on the Meghalaya Reforestation and Sustainable Livelihoods Project.
 The project, named Regeneration Meghalaya, is a 30-year regenerative horticulture and agriculture
project aiming to restore 22,670 hectares in Meghalaya.
 Approximately 200,000 trees have already been planted, and further planting is planned in 2024 after
the official project launch.
 Objectives include supporting biodiversity, soil conservation, climate health, and catchment health
co-benefits.

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 The project promotes sustainable farming and agroforestry, aligning with Meghalaya's aromatics
policy and organic farming policy.
 Monitoring of biophysical indicators like biomass, soil organic carbon, land productivity, and land
cover, following the UNCCD land degradation neutrality global mechanism.
 The project is part of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance's "living labs for nature, people, and planet."
 Collaboration with Earthbanc focuses on restoring nature in a degraded biodiversity hotspot while
supporting farming livelihoods in India.
 The initiative aligns with India's policies and programs, fostering sustainable value chains and
addressing land degradation.
 The project is recognized for contributing to India's ambitious carbon sink target, emphasizing the
importance of protecting, restoring, and sustainably managing nature.
Learn Along:
About Mehghalaya
Founded: 1 April 1970 Chief minister: Conrad Sangma
Capital: Shillong Governor: Phagu Chauhan
REPORTS AND INDEXES
Global carbon emissions from fossil fuels to rise 1.1% to hit peak in 2023
 Global Carbon Project estimates a 1.1% increase in worldwide carbon dioxide emissions from
burning fossil fuels in 2023, reaching a new peak of 36.8 billion metric tons.
 The increase slows the upward trend in emissions, but a consistent drop of approximately 9%
annually is needed to meet the 1.5°C target in the Paris Agreement.
 Despite declines in fossil-fuel emissions in over two dozen countries, the global total continues to
rise.
 The European Union's emissions dropped by 7.4%, while India surpassed the EU as the world's
third-largest emitter, driven by increases in coal, oil, and cement CO2.
 China remains the largest emitter globally, responsible for 31% of carbon emissions, followed by
the US at 14%.
 Fossil-fuel demand for electricity may have peaked, but renewable energy growth alone has not
been sufficient to replace fossil fuels, emphasizing the need for effective policies.
 Coal plant closures, fuel-switching, and renewables in the US led to an 18.3% decline in coal use,
bringing it down to its 1903 level.
 Including changes to land use, the estimated 2023 emissions total rises to 40.9 billion tons, with
deforestation responsible for 4.2 billion tons of carbon annually.
 The report breaks out emissions related to aviation and shipping for the first time, with a 28%
increase and 1% increase year on year, respectively.
 Global wildfire emissions reached 8 gigatons, a third higher than the 2013-2022 average for the first
10 months of the year.

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 The study highlights concerns about the permanence of carbon removal, potential impacts of
reforestation on land color and heat absorption, and the asymmetric relationship between carbon flow
and temperature response.
States’ debt to stay at 31-32% in FY24: Crisil
 According to a CRISIL report , States’ debt will remain elevated at 31-32% of their gross domestic
product (GDP) amid higher capital outlays and moderate revenue growth this fiscal, with overall
borrowings likely to rise by 9% to more than ₹87 lakh crore.
 Indebtedness of a State is measured as the ratio of its debt to gross state domestic product (GSDP).
 Before COVID-19, the debt-GSDP ratio was at 28-29%.
 But, the aggregate gross fiscal deficit (GFD) as a ratio of GSDP is expected to remain at 2.5, well
below the mandated level of 3 under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act.
 With lower-than-expected revenue growth, States are forced to borrow more to expand capital
outlays, besides meeting high committed revenue expenditure related to salaries, pensions and interest
costs.
 This will keep the debt level high at 31-32% of the gross domestic output.
 The report is based on the numbers available from the top 18 States accounting for 90% of the
aggregate GSDP.
Union Minister For Jal Shakti Releases Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report For
The Country For The Year 2023
 The Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat released the Dynamic Ground Water
Resource Assessment Report for the entire country for the year 2023.
 The assessment was carried out jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs,
which can be used for taking suitable interventions by various stake-holders.
 As per the 2023 assessment report, the total annual ground water recharge for the entire country
is 449.08 billion cubic meters (BCM), marking an increase of 11.48 BCM compared to the previous
year (2022) and annual ground water extraction for the entire country is 241.34 BCM.
 Further, out of the total 6553 assessment units in the country, 736 units have been categorized as
‘Over-exploited’.
 Total annual ground water recharge for entire country is 449.08 billion cubic meters (BCM), while
extraction is 241.34 BCM
 Stage of ground water extraction stands at 59.23%.
GDP emission intensity reduced by 33% between 2005 and 2019
 According to a government report, India reduced its GDP emission intensity by 33 per cent
between 2005 and 2019, achieving the target 11 years in advance,.
 India's GDP grew at a cumulative annual growth rate of 7 per cent but its emissions rose by only 4
per cent per year during this period, suggesting that the country has been successful in decoupling
its economic growth from planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions.

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 The report called 'The Third National Communication to the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change' will be submitted to the UN climate change body during the ongoing
climate talks in Dubai.
 National communications contain information on a country's greenhouse gas emissions, its
vulnerability to climate change, and the measures any country is taking to mitigate emissions and
adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Proposed 5% biogas blending with LNG can cut imports worth $1.17 bn: IBA
 As per a study by the Indian Biogas Association (IBA),The proposed 5% blending of biogas with
natural gas can annually save $1.17 billion in LNG imports.
 The study follows the government's recent mandate to blend 1% biogas with piped natural gas
(PNG) from April 1, 2025, under the compressed biogas blending obligation (CBO) scheme.
 The plan aims to increase biogas blending to 5% by fiscal year 2028-29.
 The initiative aligns with the government's goal to make India a gas-based economy, targeting a
gas share increase from 6% to 15% in the energy mix by 2030.
 IBA estimates suggest a 5% biogas blending can reduce LNG imports by $1.17 billion and
decrease per capita CO2 emissions by 2% compared to the 2019 figure.
 The CBO scheme is expected to attract around Rs 37,500 crore in investment, fostering at least
750 compressed bio gas (CBG) projects by 2028-29, enhancing energy security and reducing reliance
on imported natural gas.
 Biogas blending is seen as beneficial for agricultural income growth and can convert biogas plant
areas into organic agriculture.
 Biogas production from various organic waste sources creates economic opportunities for
farmers, waste management companies, and stakeholders.
 Blending biogas with natural gas streamlines the biofuels market, making it more investor-friendly
by reducing capital and operational costs, according to IBA.
World Malaria Report
 The recently released World Malaria Report shows that the number of cases and deaths due to
the mosquito-borne infection India have continued to decline.
 With an estimated 33.8 lakh cases and 5,511 deaths, India saw a decline of 30 per cent in malaria
incidence and 34 per cent in mortality in 2022, compared to the previous year.
 India’s downward trend was reflected in the larger WHO South East Asian region that remained
on track to achieving the 2030 target of reducing cases and deaths by 90 per cent.
 This is, even as since the beginning of the pandemic, a trend of increasing incidence has been noted
globally, after nearly a decade of the numbers remaining almost the same.
 The number of malaria cases had dropped from 243 million to 233 million globally between 2000
and 2019.
 However, there was an increase of 11 million cases in 2020.
 They remained stable in 2021, before seeing another increase of 5 million in 2022 to 249 million.

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5 TAKEAWAYS FROM THE REPORT

1. India saw a 30% decline in malaria cases and 34% decline in deaths in 2022 as compared to the
previous year
2. Globally there were 5 million additional malaria cases in 2022 as compared to the previous year,
totalling to 249 million
3. Of the 5 million additional cases, the highest 2.1 million was from Pakistan that had a flood in 2022
4. India accounted for 1.4% of total malaria cases in the world
5. India accounted for 1.4% of total malaria cases in the world
Glaciers shrank 1 m a year in a decade: WMO
 The World Meteorological Organization's report

states that the 2011-2020 decade, despite being the
warmest ever recorded, saw the lowest number of
deaths from extreme events.
 Improved early warning systems, driven by
advancements in forecasting and better disaster
management, contributed to the reduction in
casualties.
 The report notes that it was the first decade since
1950 without a single short-term event causing
10,000 deaths or more.
 In India, enhanced forecasting of cyclone
formation and landfall time improved
preparedness and evacuation procedures.
 The decade also marked the visible recovery of the depleted ozone hole and observed glaciers
worldwide thinning by approximately 1 meter per year on average.
 Greenland and Antarctica lost 38% more ice between 2011 and 2020 compared to the 2001-2010
period.
 The report highlights the increased risks from extreme heat events due to human-caused climate
change, with heatwaves causing the highest number of human casualties.
 Tropical cyclones were identified as causing the most economic damage.
 Public and private climate finance nearly doubled during the period, but the report emphasizes
the need for a sevenfold increase by the end of the decade to achieve climate objectives, including
limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century.
Learn Along:
About WMO
Founded: 23 March 1950 Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland President: Gerhard Adrian
Mumbai tops metros in reporting economic offences in 2022: NCRB data
 Mumbai recorded 6,960 cases of economic offences in 2022, the highest among metro cities,
according to NCRB data.

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 Cyber crime cases in Mumbai increased to 4,724 in 2022 from 2,883 in 2021.
 Hyderabad ranked second with 6,015 economic offences, and Delhi was third with 5,007 cases.
 In Mumbai, 1,093 cases were of criminal breach of trust, and cases of forgery, cheating, and fraud
stood at 5,855.
 Maharashtra ranked fourth in cyber crime cases (8,249) in 2022, topped by Telangana (15,297),
 Mumbai ranked second in reporting cyber crimes in 2022 with 4,724 cases, while Bengaluru
topped the list with 9,940 cases, and Hyderabad was third with 4,436 cases.
India Infrastructure Report 2023 released
 The India Infrastructure Report 2023 on Urban Planning and Development was released on 4
December 2023 by Venkaiah Naidu, former Vice-President of India, who served as the Chief Guest
(virtually) along with Mr. Amitabh Pant, G20 Sherpa of India and former CEO, NITI Aayog.
 The India Infrastructure Report 2023 has been a collaborative effort of the IDFC Foundation,
Infrastructure Development Corporation (Karnataka) Ltd. (iDeCK) and the National Institute of Urban
Affairs (NIUA).
 The report is a significant milestone in the acclaimed India Infrastructure Report (IIR) series,
initiated by the IDFC Foundation in 2001.
 Key aspects of IIR 2023 are such as Planning and Governance, Smart Initiatives, PPPs and
Financing, Housing and Migration, Public Service Delivery, Integrating Infrastructure, and Urban
Redevelopment.
Key Highlights of the India Infrastructure Report 2023:
 Spotlight on the transformative potential of digital technology in shaping the urban landscape of
India. Focus areas include the concept of ‘smart cities’ and the significance of performance ranking
criteria.
 Examination of financial dimensions of urban development, with a special emphasis on public-
private partnerships (PPPs), the financial sustainability of urban local bodies, and the efficacy of
municipal bonds as potent financing instruments.
 Urban transportation planning and urban redevelopment as pivotal components of effective urban
governance through transit-oriented development, efficient urban goods movement, and floor
space and land price regulation in India.
Learn Along:
About IIR 2023
 The India Infrastructure Report (IIR) 2023 contains 25 chapters by prominent names in the urban
development and policy ecosystem on the current state of urban development in India.
 This annual publication has been instrumental in identifying and analyzing legal, fiscal, regulatory,
technological, social, and conceptual aspects related to contemporary themes relevant to infrastructure
development.
 This makes it an invaluable resource for those involved in formulating urban policy, as well as for those
interested in the development of India's infrastructure and urbanization, such as policy makers, investors,
academics, financiers, and multilateral agencies.
About IDFC
 IDFC Foundation is a not-for-profit institution, working on philanthropic initiatives in social infrastructure.

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 As part of its development agenda, IDFC Foundation also carries out focussed research, policy advocacy
and capacity building across the spectrum of infrastructure sectors.
About iDeCK
 IDeCK, established in 2000 as a joint venture of the Government of Karnataka, IDFC Foundation and HDFC.
 iDeCK focusses on catalysing well-planned, sustainable infrastructure projects, especially through public-
private participation.
About NIUA
 Established in 1976, National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) has been bridging the gap between research and
practice on issues related to urbanization and suggest ways and mechanisms to address urban challenges
in the country.
India's economy to grow at 6.8% in FY24, accelerate to 7% in FY25: CII
 Industry chamber CII expects the country's economy to grow at 6.8 per cent in the current fiscal and
accelerate to 7 per cent in 2024-25, driven by the government's continued focus on infrastructure
development and promotion of ease of doing business.
 The expected gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 6.8 per cent will be more than the 6.5-6.7 per
cent estimated earlier by the industry body.
Learn Along:
About CII
 The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) works to create and sustain an environment conducive to
the development of India, partnering with Industry, Government, and civil society, through advisory and
consultative processes.
 CII is a non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and industry-managed organization, with
around 9000 members from the private as well as public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an
indirect membership of over 300,000 enterprises from 286 national and regional sectoral industry bodies.
 Founded: 1895 Headquarters: New Delhi, India Director General: Chandrajit Banerjee
NITI Aayog releases the 1st Delta Ranking of ABP
 Tiriyani Block of Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana, tops the first delta rankings of
Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) by NITI Aayog.
 Kaushambi block of Kaushambi District, Uttar Pradesh, secures the second position in the
rankings.
 Virtual event at NITI Aayog witnesses participation from 329 districts and 500 aspirational blocks
nationwide.
 Rankings based on the performance and progress achieved in Key Performance Indicators
(KPIs) in June 2023.
 ABP aims to improve governance and enhance the quality of life in underdeveloped blocks of India.
 Wall of Fame inaugurated at NITI Aayog showcasing achievements and projects of Aspirational
Blocks and Districts.
 Thematic and overall rankings for ADP (Aspirational Districts Programme) for October 2023 also
announced.

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 Rayagada (Odisha) and Jamui (Bihar) achieve first and second ranks in ADP.
 Top rankers of ABP and ADP to be displayed on the Wall of Fame.
 Blocks divided into six zones, with top performers in each zone receiving prize amounts.
Learn Along:
 Aspirational Blocks Programme launched on January 7, 2023, focusing on governance improvement in
underdeveloped blocks.
 500 blocks from 329 districts across 27 states and 4 Union Territories are part of the ABP.
 Programme strategy based on convergence of existing schemes, defining outcomes, and monitoring
progress with 40 KPIs.
About NITI Aayog
 NITI Aayog (National Institution of Technology and Innovation Advocacy) is a think tank of the Indian
government, established in 2015, aimed at promoting and advancing technological innovation,
entrepreneurship, and research and development.
 Chairperson: Narendra Modi Founded: 1 January 2015
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Google unveils ‘Gemini,’ AI tech trained to behave like humans
 Google launched the project Gemini, an AI model trained to behave in human-like ways that’s likely
to intensify the debate about the technology’s potential promise and perils.
 The rollout will unfold in phases, with less sophisticated versions of Gemini called ‘Nano’ and ‘Pro’
being immediately incorporated into Google’s AI-powered chatbot Bard and its Pixel 8 Pro
smartphone.
 The AI, at first, will only work in English throughout the world, although Google executives assured
that the technology will have no problem eventually diversifying into other languages.
Learn Along:
About Google
Founded: 4 September 1998 CEO: Sundar Pichai Headquarters: California, U.S.
Indian Railways develop AI-based software ‘Gajraj’ to avoid collisions, to roll out in all elephant
corridors
 In a bid to prevent train-elephant collisions, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the
development of 'Gajraj', an indigenous software utilising optical fibre cable (OFC) to alert the
locomotive pilot of any suspicious activity on or near rail tracks.
 The AI-based 'Gajraj' software, successfully tested in Assam, is set to be deployed across 700 km of
elephant corridors in multiple states within the next eight months, at an estimated cost of Rs 181
crore.
 Using AI and OFC, the software triggers alerts upon detecting any questionable movement within
200 metres of the tracks.
Nano-Science along with Bio-Economy to contribute immensely in India’s march toward 5 Trillion
Dollar Economy

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 Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the faculty and students of the Institute of Nano Science and
Technology (INST) in Mohali, near Chandigarh.
 INST is India's first exclusive Nano Science institute, established to conduct research and develop
products/devices and technology in Nanoscience and Technology.
 The institute's focus areas include Agricultural Nanotechnology, Nanomedicine, Energy and
Environmental Science, Quantum Materials and Device Physics, Nano Electronics, and Microfluidics
Based Technologies, among others.
 INST is an autonomous research institution under the Department of Science and Technology,
Government of India, working under the National Mission on Nano Science and Technology (NANO
MISSION).
 Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the significance of Nano-Science and Bio-Economy in India's journey
toward a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy.
 INST aims to emerge as a globally competitive research institution in Nano Science and Technology,
contributing to society through applications in agriculture, medicine, energy, and the environment.
 The institute has a vision of cutting-edge research in nanoscience and nanotechnology with an
interdisciplinary approach to address global and local challenges.
 INST actively engages in outreach programs, reaching over 15,000 students in 300 schools,
promoting science as a career and creating awareness about the importance of science in day-to-day life.
 Core objectives of INST include advancing knowledge in nanoscience, educating young minds,
imparting advanced training courses, encouraging innovative scientific projects, and promoting
translational research from the laboratory to industry.
 The institute is located in Mohali, Punjab, with a new campus set up on 35 acres of land in the
Knowledge City at Sector-81 Mohali.
"Bio-vision" for Bharat
 Dr Jitendra Singh Addressed the first ever meeting of the BRIC Society aimed at fulfilling Prime
Minister’s Vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat in areas like healthcare, food and energy needs by scaling
biotech research and innovation.
 The government is bringing together the best minds on a unified platform called BRIC (Biotechnology
Research and Innovation Council) Society by subsuming 14 top Science Autonomous Institutions: Dr
Jitendra Singh
 BRIC and its Institutes can engage in public-private research partnerships and receive endowments
including funds from non-Governmental resources for research-related activities
 Indian Bio-economy recorded 13 times increase in the last ten years.
 Dr Jitendra Singh launched the Citizen Centric “Zero Waste Life on Campus’ or the “shoonya
apashisht Jeevan” on the occasion of the first Society Meeting of BRIC
 In this Unique Initiative, institutions of BRIC (iBRIC) will serve as testbeds to develop models that can
be implemented across the country.
 iBric will strengthen the 5 R’s of zero waste with a 6th ‘R’- “Research Insights”.
India set to launch X-ray Polarimeter Satellite

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 The Indian Space Research Organisation has announced a plan to launch its first X-ray Polarimeter
Satellite (XPoSat) to investigate the polarisation of intense X-ray sources.
 While Space-based X-ray astronomy had been established in India focusing on imaging, time-
domain studies, and spectroscopy, the XPoSat mission marked a major value addition.
 This research, supplementing traditional time and frequency domain studies, introduced a novel
dimension to X-ray astronomy, generating anticipation and excitement within the scientific community.
 The satellite will be launched by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle from the Satish Dhawan Space
Centre in Sriharikota.
Learn Along:
About ISRO
Headquarters: Bengaluru Founder: Vikram Sarabhai
Founded: 15 August 1969 Chairman: Sreedhara Somanath
Amazon to introduce advanced coding and AI modules in 100 Karnataka schools
 Amazon is expanding its Amazon Future Engineer (AFE) program to introduce advanced coding and
artificial intelligence (AI) modules in 100 Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society (KREIS)
schools.
 The expansion includes digital infrastructure enhancements for 30 KREIS schools, impacting over
13,000 students in grades six to eight across 30 districts of Karnataka.
 The advanced module aims to help students develop complex computer applications involving
advanced programming concepts such as control conditions, variables, and functions.
 Through project-based learning, students will also gain an introduction to the basics of AI,
understanding its relevance, future possibilities, and impact on their lives and the world.
 This new program complements existing courses in coding, logical sequencing, learning loops, and
block programming offered to KREIS schools under the Amazon Future Engineer program.
 The 20-hour module is designed considering students' current exposure to computer science and
coding, with class six students learning fundamentals of block programming, and seventh and eighth
graders introduced to advanced programming and AI basics.
Learn Along:
About Amazon
Founded: 5 July 1994 Founder: Jeff Bezos President: Andy Jassy
DEFENCE
₹2.23 lakh crore to buy 97 Tejas jets, 156 Prachand helicopters
 In a major move to enhance the combat capabilities of the armed forces significantly, the Union
government accorded initial approval to defence acquisition projects estimated at ₹2.23 lakh crore
that included procurement of 97 Tejas light combat aircraft and 156 Prachand combat helicopters.
 The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the
projects at a time India is locked in a military stand-off with China at a number of friction points in eastern
Ladakh for over three years.

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 98% of the total procurement will be sourced from domestic industries and that the move will give a
substantial boost to the Indian defence industry in achieving the goal of aatmanirbharta (self-
reliance).
 The DAC also approved a proposal of the Indian Air Force to upgrade its Su-30 fighter fleet by
state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.
 The top body on procurement of military hardware also cleared acquisition and integration of
automatic target tracker (ATT) and digital basaltic computer (DBC) for T-90 tanks besides approving
another proposal to buy medium-range anti-ship missiles (MRAShM) for the Navy.
 The MRAShM is a lightweight surface-to-surface missile which will be a primary offensive weapon
aboard various Indian naval ships.
 In February 2021, the Defence Ministry sealed a ₹48,000-crore deal with the HAL for procurement
of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the IAF.
Three anti-submarine warfare ships for Indian Navy launched
 The first three of a series of eight anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts being built by Cochin
Shipyard Ltd. for the Navy were launched on the shipyard premises.
 The ships, to be named INS Mahe, INS Malvan and INS Mangrol upon commissioning, were launched
in the presence of the Vice-Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Sanjay J. Singh; the Commander-
in-Chief of the Strategic Forces Command, Vice-Admiral Suraj Berry; and the Commandant of the Indian
Naval Academy, Vice-Admiral Puneet Bahl, by their spouses Anjali Bahl, Kangana Berry and Zarine Lord
Singh, respectively.
 The shipyard inked the contract with the Defence Ministry to build the eight vessels in 2019.
 These Mahe class ships will replace the Navy’s in-service Abhay class ASW corvettes and are
designed for anti-submarine operations in the coastal waters, and low-intensity maritime, mine-laying and
sub-surface surveillance operations.
 They are also capable of coordinated ASW operations with aircraft, and search and rescue.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt to attend UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Accra, Ghana
 Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt will pay an official visit to Accra, Ghana from December 05 to 06,
2023 to attend the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting.
 The Department of Peace Operations, UN and the Republic of Ghana are the hosts of the meeting.
 The UN Peacekeeping Ministerial meeting aims to address the security and operational challenges
being faced by the UN peacekeepers and generate support for these missions deployed across the
world.
 The Raksha Rajya Mantri will hold bilateral meetings with participating Ministers of member
countries and discuss defence cooperation matters to further strengthen the engagements. He will
also interact with the Indian community in Accra during the visit.
INS KADMATT AT YOKOSUKA, JAPAN
 INS Kadmatt, on a Long Range Operational Deployment to the North Pacific Ocean entered
Yokosuka, Japan on Dec 02, 2023 for an Operational Turnaround (OTR).

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 Onboard visits including professional interactions and community welfare activities are planned
during the stay.
 Interactions with the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) will include cross-ship visits,
professional exchange of ideas, Joint Yoga Camp, and coordination meeting for the Maritime
Partnership Exercise (MPX).
 At Yokosuka, the ship will be celebrating the Navy Day on 04 Dec 2023 in presence of the Indian
diaspora in Japan.
Ministry of Defence collaborates with Indian School of Business for scholarship to ex-servicemen
 The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence, collaborates with the Indian School
of Business (ISB) for scholarships to military personnel post-retirement.
 ISB will offer a 50% tuition fee waiver across its postgraduate and advanced management
programs, totaling up to Rs 2.3 crore per year.
 The collaboration benefits 22 ex-servicemen each academic year.
 The initiative aims to provide management skills to complement the existing skill set of Armed Forces
personnel and veterans.
 The collaboration is seen as an opportunity for veterans and soon-to-retire personnel to pursue
world-class education at ISB and contribute to nation-building.
Learn Along:
About ISB
Founders: Rajat Gupta; Anil Kumar Established: 2001 Chairman: Harish Manwani
Navy Ranks To Be Renamed To Reflect Indian Culture
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the renaming of Indian Navy ranks according to Indian
culture and noted the importance of naval power, inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
 Applets adorned by naval officers will now reflect Chhatrapati Shivaji's image, credited for building
India's first modern Navy.
 India is setting bigger targets and utilizing its full potential, with the world viewing the country as a
'Vishwa Mitra' (universal friend).
 PM Narendra Modi unveiled a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort before witnessing
an operational demonstration by the Indian Navy.
 The Navy showcased its prowess with warships, submarines, aircraft, and Special Forces in the
operational demonstration at Tarkarli beach in Malvan.
EVENTS
India's first art, architecture and design biennale to begin
 The Indian Art, Architecture, and Design Biennale's first edition to be inaugurated by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi at the Red Fort aiming to establish itself as a flagship global cultural initiative for
India.
 The weeklong event at the Red Fort will feature replicas of architectural landmarks and themed
exhibitions from December 9 to 15.

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 The Government’s vision led to the development of the biennale, inspired by international biennales
in places like Venice, Sao Paulo, Singapore, Sydney, and Sharjah.
 The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) and various organizations are curators and partners
for the exhibitions.
 Seven themes for the exhibitions include "Doors of India," "Gardens of India," "Baolis of India,"
"Temples of India," "Architectural Wonders of Independent India," "Indigenous Designs," and
"Celebrating Women in Architecture."
 The biennale aims to showcase India's rich heritage through the adaptive use of cultural heritage.
 The Ministry of Culture had previously signed MOUs with cities to reinvent cultural spaces, and
initiatives like the Museum Expo and Festival of Libraries preceded the biennale.
 The event seeks to start a conversation between artists, architects, designers, photographers,
collectors, and the public to strengthen cultural dialogue.
 PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design and a student biennale
called Samunnati.
‘Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023’
 Dehradun ( Uttarakhand) is hosting the Global Investors Summit on December 8-9, with an expected
turnout of 5,000 delegates from India and abroad.
 The Uttarakhand government plans to showcase over 15 investor-friendly policies during the
Summit, focusing on good governance, a supportive regulatory framework, and sustainable practices.
 The agenda includes Business-to-Business (B2B) and Government-to-Business (G2B) meetings to
aid investors in making informed decisions.
 The Summit aims to foster collaboration between exhibitors, private enterprises, and government
organizations, providing a platform for displaying advanced technologies, innovations, and upcoming
trends.
 Sectoral sessions at the Summit will facilitate in-depth discussions on industry challenges and
opportunities.
 The framework of 'Destination Uttarakhand' is inspired by the Vibrant Gujarat model, emphasizing
its structure and objectives.
Learn Along:
About Uttarakhand
Founded: 9 November 2000 Chief minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami Governor: Gurmit Singh
India re-elected to International Maritime Organisation with highest vote tally
 In elections held at its assembly for the 2024–25 biennium, India was re-elected to the International
Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council with the highest tally.
 India's re-election falls under the Category of 10 states with "the largest interest in international
seaborne trade", alongside Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden,
and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
 India secured the large-scale support of the international community at the International Maritime
Organisation for India to continue to serve the global maritime domain.

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 The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is the leading authority that regulates the maritime
industry, which supports global trade, transportation, and all marine operations.
 Under the MIV 2030 to enhance representation at IMO India aims at appointing permanent
representatives at IMO London.
 Kaal Vision 2047 has also set goals to strengthen India’s global maritime presence.
Learn Along:
About IMO
Headquarters: London, United Kingdom Founded: 17 March 1958 Secretary-General: Kitack Lim
India and Sweden co-host the Phase-II of Leadership Group for Industry Transition at COP-28
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi together with H.E. Mr. Ulf Kristersson, Prime Minister of Sweden, co-
launched the Phase-II of the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT 2.0) for the period
2024-26, at COP-28 in Dubai.
 India and Sweden also launched the Industry Transition Platform, which will connect the governments,
industries, technology providers, researchers and think tanks of the two countries.
 During the event, Prime Minister highlighted that LeadIT 2.0 will focus on the following:
 Inclusive & Just Industry Transition
 Co-development & transfer of low-carbon technology
 Financial support to emerging economies for Industry Transition
 India and Sweden had co-launched LeadIT at UN Climate Action Summit in New York in 2019.
Loss and Damage Fund cleared on Day One of COP-28 summit
 On the first day of the 28th Conference of Parties or COP-28, member countries agreed to make
operational a Loss and Damage (L&D) Fund meant to compensate countries already dealing with
climate change.
 To be based at the World Bank but managed by an independent secretariat, the Fund has received
commitments worth nearly $250 million from countries, though billions of dollars are still needed to
meet its purpose.
 The Fund was first announced at the conclusion of COP-27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, last year, but
it has taken five separate meetings since then, through “transitional committees”, to get to a position
where countries could unanimously agree on a text that was then passed by COP-28 President Sultan
Ahmed Al Jaber.
 The UAE, the host country, and Germany made a financial commitment of $100 million each; the
U.S. $17 million, the U.K. approximately $50.6 million, and Japan $10 million for the Fund.
 The European Union committed $145 million, over and above the German contribution.
Dharmendra Pradhan attended the programme for the distribution of Footballs under F4S in Cuttack,
Odisha
 Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan,
attended the Kick-off programme for the distribution of footballs as part of the Football for Schools
(F4S) at Cuttack.

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 He distributed footballs at PM Shri Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Mundali, Cuttack under this
programme, which is run by Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
 The Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education is supported by the All India
Football Federation (AIFF) and Sports Authority of India (SAI) in the implementation of this programme
in the Country.
 To implement the F4S programme in India, FIFA is contributing more than 11 lakh footballs for
distribution in various schools pan India.
 The kick-off of the distribution of balls started from Cuttack, Odisha.
 District NVS will be the nodal distribution centre throughout the country.
 An MoU was earlier signed between the Ministry of Education, AIFF and FIFA on 30 October 2022.
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya is the Nodal organization for the F4S programme.
 F4S aims to contribute to the education, development, and empowerment of around 700 million
children across the world.
 It seeks to make football more accessible to both boys and girls by incorporating football activities
into the education system, in partnership with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
Learn Along:
About Odisha
Capital: Bhubaneswar Chief minister: Naveen Patnaik Governor: Raghubar Das
India Internet Governance Forum IIGF’23 to be held in New Delhi
 The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a multi-stakeholder platform bringing together

representatives from various groups, considering all to be at par to discuss public policy issues
related to the Internet.
 India Internet Governance Forum 2023 (IIGF-2023) is a hybrid event, being convened on 5th
December.
 After successfully convening the first two edition of the IIGF in 2021 and 2022, the third edition of the
IIGF is being conducted under the overarching theme “Moving Forward – Calibrating Bharat’s Digital
Agenda”.
 The event is an effort to delve deeper into issues such as building a secure, trusted & resilient
cyberspace for Bharat, Enabling Innovation for India’s Developmental Goals, Bridging Divides and
Calibrating Bharat’s Digital Agenda – on Leadership for Global Digital Governance & Cooperation.
Learn Along:
About IIGF
 The India Internet Governance Forum is an initiative associated with the UN Internet Governance Forum (UN
IGF).
 The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a multi-stakeholder platform bringing representatives together from
various groups, all at par to discuss public policy issues related to the Internet.
 The IGF facilitates a common understanding of how to maximise Internet opportunities and address risks
and challenges that may arise.
 The Indian chapter of the United Nations IGF, called India IGF or IIGF, was created in 2021, and is supported
by a 14-member multi-stakeholder Committee(s) representing Government, Civil Society, Industries, Technical
community, Think Tanks, Industry Associations, etc.
APPOINTMENTS

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Organization/ News Learn Along

Country,State..
Name
In a historic move, Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati has appointed
Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi, a distinguished officer from the 2015
batch of the Indian Air Force, as India’s first Woman Aide-De-Camp
(ADC) from the Indian Armed Forces. Founded:
Indian Air Force 8 October
Air Force Air Marshal Makarand Ranade assumed the appointment of Director 1932
General (Inspection and Safety) [DG (I&S)] at Air HQ New Delhi on 01
December 2023.
IDRCL Former KPMG managing partner, Narayan Seshadri, is set to assume ---
the role of Chairman at IDRCL, the government-backed bad bank,
following the resignation of Diwakar Gupta.
Madagscar Madagascar's incumbent President Andry Rajoelina has won a third term, Capital:
following a disputed election boycotted by the opposition and its supporters. Antananarivo
Indian Council of Kanchan Devi, 1991-batch Indian Forest Service Officer from the Madhya Founded:
Forestry Research Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the 1986
Education Indian Council of Forestry Research Education (ICFRE). This marks a
historic milestone, with Kanchan becoming the first woman officer to
ascend to this esteemed position within the premier council operating
under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
Max Financial Max Financial Services informed the stock exchanges that Rajiv Anand Headquarters:
Services will take over as the Chairman of the insurance arm -- Max Life Insurance India
Company Limited.
Founded:
He will be replacing Analjit Singh effective from December 5, 2023.
1988
Insolvency and The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) confirmed that Founded:
Bankruptcy Board Jithesh John, a seasoned Indian Economic Service Officer from the 2001 1 October
of India batch, has assumed the position of Executive Director. This 2016
development marks a significant milestone in the leadership of IBBI.
U.K A British-Indian Samir Shah has been picked by the U.K. government to Capital:
head the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as its next chair. London
The previous BBC chair, Richard Sharp, stepped down in June over his Currency:
failure to disclose that he had helped arrange a £800,000 loan to former
Pound sterling
U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The BBC chair’s duties include
overseeing the independence of the organisation.
Mizoram In a significant political development, Lalduhoma, the Zoram People’s Capital:

Movement (ZPM) leader and legislature party leader, is poised to be
Aizawl
sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Mizoram on December 8.
Telangana Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan administered the oath of Founded:

CM’s office to Anumula Revanth Reddy , who steered his party to victory 2 June 2014
in India’s youngest State, in the presence of Congress president Mallikarjun

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Kharge and other senior leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi
and Priyanka Vadra, as well as the Congress CMs of Karnataka and
Himachal Pradesh.
Indian Council of Kanchan Devi, 1991-batch Indian Forest Service Officer from the Madhya ---
Forestry Research Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the
Education (ICFRE) Indian Council of Forestry Research Education (ICFRE). This marks a
historic milestone, with Kanchan becoming the first woman officer to
ascend to this esteemed position within the premier council operating
under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
AWARDS AND REWARDS
UN Awards: Michelle Zarate Palomec and Sebastian Mwaura Recognized as Climate Champions
 Michelle Zárate Palomec of Mexico and Sebastian Mwaura of Kenya will be honored with the UN
Global Climate Action Awards at COP28 in Dubai.
 Zárate Palomec, aged 27, is recognized for leading initiatives to provide clean water access to
marginalized indigenous communities in Oaxaca, Mexico, addressing water scarcity and pollution.
 Mwaura, aged 35, co-founded Yna Kenya, focusing on accelerating electric vehicle adoption through a
renewable energy-powered charging network.
 He initiated the HerGo program to create 12,000 jobs for women in the e-mobility transport sector.
 Zárate Palomec won in the "resilient nature" category, while Mwaura won in the "energy transition"
category.
 The award ceremony is scheduled for December 8, 2023, at COP28's Global Climate Action area,
featuring singer-songwriter AY Young and multimedia artist DJ Erick Marques.
 The UN Climate Change Awards, launched in 2011, are partnered with IRENA, IUCN, and the
Permanent Representative of the UAE to IRENA for the 2023 edition.
Learn Along:
About COP28
 COP 28 refers to the United Nations Climate Change Conference taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates,
from 30 November until 12 December 2023.
 UN Climate Change conferences (or COPs) take place every year, and are the world’s only multilateral decision-
making forum on climate change with almost complete membership of every country in the world.
Indian-Origin Novelist Meira Chand Receives Singapore's Highest Arts Award
 Eighty-one-year-old Indian-origin writer Meira Chand was among the three Singaporeans conferred
the Cultural Medallion, the city-state's most prestigious arts accolade, in recognition of their artistic
excellence and contribution to enriching the country's arts and culture scene.
 Meira Chand, fellow novelist Suchen Christine Lim and Malay dance veteran Osman Abdul Hamid
received the award from President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at a ceremony held at the Istana.
 The award comes with an SGD 80,000 (approximately ₹ 49 lakh) grant for each recipient to support
their artistic pursuits.

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 A Singaporean of Swiss-Indian parentage, Meira Chand, along with Lim, is the first English-language
female writer to be conferred the award since Ho Minfong in 1997.
 Meira Chand is an award-winning novelist known for her depiction of multicultural societies. Her 'The
Painted Cage' (1986) was longlisted for the prestigious Booker Prize.
Learn Along:
 The Cultural Medallion, instituted in 1979 by late President and then Minister of Culture Ong Teng Cheong, is the
city-state's "highest arts accolade, honouring individuals whose artistic excellence, contribution, and
commitment have enriched and distinguished Singapore's arts and culture scene,".
 It celebrates inspiring local arts practitioners who display professional maturity in their practice through a
distinctive body of work, and who have made extraordinary contributions to Singapore's artistic development.
 The award has been conferred to 132 artists in the fields of film, literary arts, performing arts, and visual arts.
 Last year, 56-year-old Tamilian Hindu Aravinth Kumarasamy was conferred the prestigious award.
Top ISRO scientist V R Lalithambika conferred with highest civilian French honour for space
cooperation initiatives
 A distinguished scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation Lalithambika VR, was conferred
the ‘Légion d’Honneur’ for her engagement in space cooperation between France and India by the
Ambassador of France to India, Thierry Mathou in Bengaluru.
 The scientist, who was the director of the Human Spaceflight Programme at the ISRO, has been
recognised by France for her role in the signing of the first joint agreement for cooperation between
the French National Space Agency CNES and the ISRO on human spaceflight in 2018 where the two
agencies agreed to work in the area of space medicine.
ESIC bags “ISSA Vision Zero 2023” Award at the 23rd World Congress
 The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) received the "ISSA Vision Zero 2023" Award at
the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work in Sydney, Australia.
 "Vision Zero" is an approach focusing on the prevention of accidents at workplaces by integrating
safety, health, and well-being.
 ESIC's success in outreach for safety and health at workplaces, aligning prevention strategies with
post-accident mechanisms for medical care and cash benefits, led to the award.
 The recognition highlights improvements in ESIC's service delivery, administrative efficiency, and
operational efficiency through IT-enabled initiatives.
Learn Along:
 The International Social Security Association (ISSA) is the principal international institution that brings
together social security agencies and organizations worldwide.
 ISSA aims to promote dynamic social security globally by supporting excellence in social security administration.
 The ISSA was founded in 1927 and has its headquarters at the International Labour Office in Geneva.
Jude Bellingham Becomes First Real Madrid Player To Win 'Golden Boy Award'
 Star English midfielder Jude Bellingham has created a milestone by becoming the first Real Madrid
player to win the 'Golden Boy Award' in Turin.
 The 'Golden Boy Award' is given to the best footballer under 21 years of age playing at a European
club.

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 The 20-year-old made his place from a list of 25 finalists, including his Los Blancos teammate Arda
Guler.
 Earlier, Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy at the Ballon d'Or gala, again recognising him as the best
player under 21 footballer.
World's 100 Most Powerful Women: FM Nirmala Sitharaman among 4 Indians in Forbes list
 India's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, has been ranked at 32nd position on Forbes'
prestigious annual list 'World's 100 Most Powerful Women'.
 This places her among renowned personalities like US Vice President Kamala Harris, musician Taylor
Swift and Barbie.
 Forbes' list encompasses a diverse array of sectors, including politics, business, media, and
entertainment, representing influential women on a global scale.
 Three other accomplished Indian women have also featured on the list. They are - Roshni Nadar
Malhotra, CEO of HCL Corporation (rank 60), Soma Mondal, Chairperson of Steel Authority of India
(rank 70), and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Biocon (rank 76).
TIME Reveals the 2023 Person of the Year, CEO of the Year
 TIME has chosen Taylor Swift as Person of the Year and Sam Altman as CEO of the Year.
OBITUARIES
Name of Person Field Points to Remember
R. Subbalakshmi Actor Noted Malayalam actor R. Subbalakshmi died in

Thiruvananthapuram. She was 87.
Benjamin Poet British poet Benjamin Zephaniah, who famously rejected an

Zephaniah honour from Queen Elizabeth II over Britain's empire and links to
slavery, died at the age of 65. The Rastafarian poet and writer,
whose work was influenced by the culture of Jamaica, also
turned his hand to acting when he appeared in Peaky Blinders.
BOOKS
Book Title Author/s About the book
MOST DELICIOUS Noah Whiteman Based on cutting-edge science in the fields of evolution,
POISON: The Story chemistry, and neuroscience, Most Delicious Poison reveals:
 The origins of toxins produced by plants, mushrooms, microbes,
of Nature’s Toxins and even some animals
— From Spices to  The mechanisms that animals evolved to overcome them
 How a co-evolutionary arms race made its way into the human
Vices
experience

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Ad Man Mad Man: Prahlad Kakar with Ad Man Mad Man: Unapologetically Prahlad is a book written
Rupangi Sharma by Praveena Sharma that delves into the world of
Unapologetically
advertising in India. The book takes readers behind the
Prahlad
scenes of some of India's biggest advertising campaigns
and provides insights into the mindset of the industry's most
iconic figures.
Same as Ever: Morgan Housel ---
Timeless lessons
on risk,
opportunity, and
living a good life
SPORTS
Kerala footballer Viknesh gets two-year ban for doping
 Kerala footballer M. Viknesh receives a two-year suspension starting from April 5, 2023.
 Viknesh failed a dope test during the National Games in Ahmedabad in October 2022.
 The positive test was for terbutaline, an ingredient in cough syrups prohibited by the World Anti-Doping
Agency.
 Radhika Prakash Awati, a Maharashtra-born fencing international representing Kerala, also receives a
two-year ban.
 Radhika had been banned for 15 months earlier for a methylprednisolone (corticosteroid) violation.
 Her suspension is from August 17, 2023, and she had won a gold medal at the Senior National
championship in Pune in March 2023.
West Indies’ Dowrich announces international retirement at 32
 Former West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Shane Dowrich has retired from international cricket and
withdrawn from the squad for a one-day international series against England.
 The 32-year-old played in 35 tests, scoring 1570 runs with a high score of 125 not out against Sri Lanka
in 2018.
Ranveer Duggal bags snooker title
 Chandigarh’s Ranveer Duggal added the junior boys’ snooker title to the junior billiards crown that
he won last week in the 90th National Billiards and Snooker Championships held at the Nehru
Indoor Stadium.
 Ranveer Duggal beat Mayur Garg of Gujarat 4-1 in the final.
Ruturaj Gaikward becomes the fastest Indian to 4,000 T20 runs

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 Indian opener Ruturaj Gaikwad broke KL Rahul’s record of being the fastest Indian batter to score
4,000 runs in Men’s T20 cricket during the fourth T20I against Australia in Raipur.
 Gaikwad needed 116 innings to touch the 4,000-run mark in T20s, while Rahul got there in 117
innings.
Germany wins FIFA U-17 WC
 Germany have lifted the FIFA U-17 World Cup for the first time following a dramatic penalty
shootout victory over France in Surakarta.
R Vaishali becomes grandmaster, joins R Praggnanandhaa to become world's first brother-sister GM

duo
 Indian chess ace R Vaishali joined younger sibling R Praggnanandhaa to become the world’s first-
ever brother-sister Grandmasters duo and only the third woman from the country to earn the GM
title, at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain.
 Vaishali achieved the feat after crossing 2500 ELO rating points. She is the country’s 84th GM.
 They also became the first-ever brother-sister duo to make the Candidates, the qualifying event for
the World Championship match.
 Her younger brother Praggnanandhaa had got the GM title in 2018, when he was just 12. Koneru
Humpy and D Harika are the two other women GMs from India.
India baggs 3 gold, 5 silver and 1 bronze medals in IBA Junior World Boxing Championship
 On the last day of IBA Junior World Boxing Championship 2023, India bagged three gold, five silver
and one bronze medals in Yerevan, Armenia.
 Akansha won gold in 70 kg category, Pari clinched gold medal in 48 kg weight category, while
Nisha won gold in 52 kg category.
 In 52 kg weight category, Vini won silver medal, while Srishti Sathe won silver medal in 63 kg weight
category.
 In the boys' category, Jatin won the silver medal in the 54 kg category.
 While Hardik Panwar in 80 kg category, Ameesha Kereta in the 54 kg category and Prachi Tokas
in the 80 kg weight category had to settle for silver medals only.
Lionel Messi named Time’s ‘Athlete of the Year’
 Lionel Messi has been named Time magazine’s ‘Athlete of the Year’ for 2023 after a trailblazing
season marked by an eighth Ballon d'Or award and his ground-breaking move to Major League Soccer's
Inter Miami.

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Sources of the News:
The Hindu,The Indian Express,Business Standard, The Financial Express ,PIB, etc.


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1st -8th December 2023

RBI, Banking and Economy ___________________________________________ 2

SEBI and Financial Awareness _________________________________________ 10

NABARD and Agriculture ___________________________________________ 12

Reports and Indexes _______________________________________________ 25

Science and Technology ___________________________________________ 31

Awards & Rewards ___________________________________________________ 38

Important Days ___________________________________________________ 45

 Weekly & Monthly BeePedia: https://www.ixambee.com/beepedia-gk-updates-

For feedback, please contact: Email id: hello@ixambee.com

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RBI, Banking and Economy

India’s oil imports from Russia see a rebound

RBI, BoE agree to exchange information on CCIL

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RBI cancels licence of Shankarrao Pujari Bank in Maharashtra

RBI Cancels Licence Of Urban Co-op Bank In UP Over Inadequate Funds

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Standing Deposit Facility Rate 6.25%

Marginal Standing Facility Rate 6.75%

Bank Rate 6.75%

Fixed Reverse Repo Rate 3.35%

1.Governor of the Reserve Bank of India—Chairperson, ex officio;

Withdrawal of ₹2000 Denomination Banknotes

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Govt to pump in additional Rs 1,500 crore for FAME-II subsidy scheme

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Himachal Pradesh tops unemployment chart in July-Sept: Labour Survey

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Trade strategy on table to achieve exports target of $2 trillion by 2030

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HDFC Bank launches Tata Neu Credit Cards

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IDFC First Bank unveils UPI-based digital RuPay credit card

SEBI and FINANCIAL AWARENESS

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India's Stock Market Achieves $4 Trillion Market Capitalization

L&T Finance Holdings completes merger of 3 of its subsidiaries with itself

Comviva fined Rs 1 lakh for delay in CSR fund transfer to PM Relief

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NABARD and AGRICULTURE

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Funds Granted for Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

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Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra

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Textiles Ministry to host global meet on cotton from Dec. 2-5

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India joins Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission

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Extension of benefits of PMUY

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UAE announces $30-bn fund to boost climate investments

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US pledges $3 billion for climate aid to developing countries at COP28

India provides $250 mn Line of Credit to Kenya

US: Ohio reports ‘white lung syndrome’ outbreak

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World Bank Steps Up Efforts to Address Methane Emissions

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Italy pulls out of flagship Chinese project

Divya Kala Mela 2023 inaugurated in Patna