DECEMBER 2023 – 8th to 15th

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Contents
1. GA IN NEWS ........................................................................................................................................4
FIRST IN NEWS .......................................................................................................................................4
GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES .................................................................................................................4
MOUs AND AGREEMENTS .....................................................................................................................6
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ...................................................................................................................10
DEFENCE EXERCISES/ INITIATIVES/ TECHNOLOGY.......................................................................10
SPORTS ..................................................................................................................................................11
AWARDS................................................................................................................................................12
APPOINTMENT .....................................................................................................................................12
PERSONS IN NEWS...............................................................................................................................13
PLACES IN NEWS .................................................................................................................................14
DAYS IN NEWS......................................................................................................................................14
MISCELLANEOUS .................................................................................................................................15
2. ESI in News ........................................................................................................................................16
SOCIAL SECTOR IN INDIA- HEALTH ..................................................................................................16
2.1 Ayushman Bhav Campaign ..........................................................................................................16
2.2 Mental Health Services ...............................................................................................................17
2.3 Update on Organ Transplantation ..............................................................................................18
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT .....................................................................19
2.4 Ethanol blending in India ............................................................................................................19
2.5 "4E Wave" Movement.................................................................................................................20
2.6 Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines ..............................................................................................21
SOCIAL JUSTICE ....................................................................................................................................22
2.7 Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards and IQ testing tool ................................................................22
2.8 'National Portal for Transgender Persons' and 'Garima Greh: A Shelter Home for Transgender
Persons' ..................................................................................................................................................22
2.9 Pro Bono Legal Services Programme (Nyaya Bandhu)................................................................23
GLOBALIZATION ..................................................................................................................................24
2.10 Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit ...................................................24
2.11 Infinity Forum 2.0 ....................................................................................................................26
2.12 International Maritime Organization (IMO) Green Voyage2050 Project................................27
2.13 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) to the UNFCCC...............................................................28
2.14 Pakistan elected as vice-chair of UNESCO Executive Board ....................................................32

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 INDIAN POLITICAL SYSTEM ...............................................................................................................33
2.15 'Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth' .....................................................................................33
2.16 Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY) ..........................................................................................34
2.17 "Gram Manchitra" Geographic Information System (GIS) application ...................................35
2.18 Project 'Arth Ganga' .................................................................................................................36
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN INDIA ...........................................................................................36
2.19 Open Network for Digital Commerce ......................................................................................36
2.20 'Build for Bharat' initiative .......................................................................................................37
2.21 Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors .................................................................38
2.22 MSME sector in India ...............................................................................................................38
2.23 Urban Infrastructure Development Fund ................................................................................40
3. GA + FINANCE ..................................................................................................................................41
FINTECH................................................................................................................................................41
3.1 NPCI Bharat BillPay onboards SBI Card under Credit Card Category..........................................41
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN FINANCIAL SECTOR ..........................................................................42
3.2 Digital Payment Transactions in India .........................................................................................42
Quick Revision..........................................................................................................................................43

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 1. GA IN NEWS
FIRST IN NEWS

S.No News Key Facts

• The terminal is named Sabarmati Multimodal Transport Hub.

• Located in Gujarat’s largest city, Ahmedabad.

About Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor: (Bullet train project)

• Trains will operate at a speed of 320 km per hour, covering a distance of

508 km.
• Foundation was laid in 2017 by India and Japan.
• The project is worth Rs 1.08 lakh crore.
India’s first bullet train terminal
1. • Japan is providing 90% financial support and technological support for this
project.
• It is scheduled to be completed by 2028

About National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL):

• Established in 2016, under the Companies Act, 2013.

• It is a Special Purpose Vehicle co-owned by the Indian Central
Government, Gujarat and Maharashtra state governments.
• It is tasked with financing, constructing, maintaining, and managing India's
High-Speed Rail Corridor.

• India's first six-lane road using steel slag was constructed in May 2022,
connecting NH-6 to Hazira port in Surat.
• Launched/Developed by:
India’s first Six Lane Steel Slag o Ministry of Steel, in collaboration with Council of Scientific &
2.
Road Industrial Research-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI).
• Objective:
o Addresses the issue of steel slag, a solid waste generated during
steel production.

GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

S.No Initiative Key Facts

• Entities Involved: Invest India, World Association of Investment Promotion

Agencies (WAIPA), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
(DPIIT) under Ministry of Commerce & Industries.
• Purpose: To provide a platform for global investment promotion and
27th World Investment innovation stakeholders.
1.
Conference (WIC) • Theme: "Empowering Investors: IPAs Pioneering Future Growth".
• Held in: December 2023, at New Delhi.
• It was the largest WIC ever held.
• Experience India Centre (EIC) was launched, showcasing India’s offerings
across services, technology, and products using various technologies.

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 About WAIPA:

• WAIPA was established in 1995 in Geneva (Switzerland) and it has over 120
member agencies from more than 100 countries.

• Entities Involved: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

• Purpose:
o To enhance driver comfort and safety.
• Effective from 1st October 2025, all new trucks in categories N2 and N3 must
be equipped with air-conditioned cabins.
Mandating Air-Conditioning • The performance testing of these systems must comply with IS 14618: 2022
2. Systems in N2 and N3 Category standards.
Trucks
Additional Information:

• Category N2 refers to trucks carrying goods with a gross vehicle weight

exceeding 3.5 tons but not exceeding 12 tons.
• Category N3 refers to trucks used for carrying goods with a gross vehicle
weight exceeding 12 tons.

• Entities Involved: Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling (Ministry

of Defence).
• Purpose:
o To promote the spirit of adventure and patriotism among the youth
through challenging expeditions.
• Mission was flagged-in, in New Delhi in December, 2023.
3. Mission Antarctica
• The expedition, which commenced in 2021, was led by Group Captain Jai
Kishan.
o Team hoisted a 7,500 sq ft, 75 kg National Flag across India, including
Mt Rhenock in Sikkim, and atop Mount Vinson Peak, South Pole.
• The flag hoisting on Mt Rhenock set a record in the Asia Book of Records and
India Book of Records.

• Entities Involved: National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF), Ministry of

Home Affairs.
• Purpose:
o To mitigate urban flooding in Chennai through an integrated
approach.
o To develop a broader framework for managing urban floods in
India.
First Urban Flood Mitigation
• Project Worth: 561.29 crore under the NDMF with central assistance of Rs
4. Project
500 crore.
• The initiative is a response to the increasing instances of excessive rainfall
and sudden flooding in metropolitan cities, particularly Chennai.

Do You Know: Chennai has faced major floods three times in the last eight years, with
the recent severe water-logging due to Cyclone Michaung's landfall.

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India Joins Battery Energy
5.
Storage Systems Consortium
MOUs AND AGREEMENTS
S.No Signing Entities
1. World Bank and World Food
Programme (WFP)
• India became the member of the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Consortium at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in
2023.
• Entities Involved in launching the initiative: The Government of India, The
Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) and Global Leadership
Council (GLC).
• Purpose:
o To accelerate the integration of renewable energy (RE) through
battery energy storage solutions.
• The commitment is part of the collaborative effort to secure 5 GW of BESS
commitments by the end of 2024.
• Approximately 42 GW of BESS is required to integrate 392 GW of variable
renewable energy (VRE) by 2030.
• IndiGrid awarded its first BESS project in Delhi with a capacity of 20 MW/40
MWh.
About GEAPP:
• It was launched in 2021 at COP26 in Glasgow (United Kingdom).
• Objective: To address energy poverty and the climate crisis by scaling green
energy solutions in developing and emerging economies.
• It provides concessional debt financing and technical assistance.
About GLC:
• It is co-chaired by the Prime Minister of Norway and the President of The
Rockefeller Foundation.
• It aims to enable an ambitious global renewable energy agenda.
About BESS Consortium:
• It is a multi-stakeholder partnership set up to transform energy systems
across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• The Consortium is on track to meet its target of securing 5 GW of BESS
commitments by the end of 2024 and deploying these by the end of 2027.
Key Facts
• Purpose: To deepen the partnership for enhancing food security globally,
particularly in vulnerable countries amidst challenges like climate change, rising
food prices, and conflict.
• Both have made commitments to scale up joint efforts to assist governments and
communities in boosting food security, transforming food systems, and expanding
adaptive social protection programs.
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 About World Bank:

• Establishment: In 1944 during the Bretton Woods Conference and began

operations in June 1946.
• Purpose: To provide financial and technical assistance to developing
countries for development programs.
• Headquarters: Located in Washington, D.C., United States.
• Membership: The World Bank has 189 member countries.

About WFP:

• Establishment: In 1961 by the United Nations after the 1960 Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) Conference.
• Purpose: To combat global hunger and ensure food security.
o It provides food assistance, including emergency relief in disaster
and conflict areas, and works to improve nutrition and build
resilience among communities.
• Achievements: It is the world's largest humanitarian organization addressing
hunger and promoting food security.
o In 2020, the WFP was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts
to combat hunger and improve conditions for peace in conflict-
affected areas.
• Headquarters: Based in Rome, Italy.

• A 200 million Euro loan agreement was signed between REC Limited
(formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) and KfW.
• Purpose of the MoU:
o To enhance the distribution infrastructure of DISCOMs in India in line
with the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) of the
Government of India.
REC Limited and German Bank
• This agreement represents REC's sixth line of credit under the Indo-German
2. KfW
Development Cooperation.

About REC Limited:

• It was established in 1969.

• It is a Maharatna PSU under the Union Ministry of Power.
• It provides long-term loans and finance products for various sectors.

• Purpose of the MoU:

o To develop a Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in 150 acres at Nagpur,
Maharashtra under the Public Private Partnership model.
• It is the first MMLP in Maharashtra under the PM Gati Shakti National Master
Plan.
• The MMLP aims to handle about 9.47 million metric tonnes of cargo over 45
years.
3.
• Located at Sindi in Wadha district, near the Nagpur-Mumbai Maha-Samruddhi
Mahamarg.
NHAI and M/s. DC Multi Modal
• A government Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), Nagpur MMLP Pvt. Ltd., is formed
Park (Nagpur) Limited
between NHLML (a subsidiary of NHAI) and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority
(JNPA).
• M/s. DC Multi Modal Park (Nagpur) Limited is a SPV of M/S. DeltaBulk Shipping
India Pvt. Ltd.

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 About MMLP:

• MMLP refers to a freight-handling facility encompassing a minimum area of 100

acres (40.5 hectares), with various modes of transport access.
• Development of MMLP is a key initiative of the Government of India to improve
the country's freight logistics sector.

• A five-year Statement of Intent (SoI) was signed between National Institution for
Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and International Food Policy Research Institute
(IFPRI).
• Purpose of the MoU:
o To strengthen policy and program frameworks in agriculture and rural
development.

4. NITI Aayog and IFPRI About IFPRI:

• It provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end

hunger and malnutrition in developing countries.
• It was established in 1975.
• Headquarter: Washington, USA
• It is a research center of Consultative Group on International Agricultural
Research (CGIAR), the world’s largest agricultural innovation network.

• Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) held a

comprehensive meeting with the World Bank.
• Purpose of the Collaboration:
o To enhance India's logistics efficiency and improve its ranking in the
World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI).
• Discussed initiatives include digitization at Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), smart
gates, railway electrification, and launch of digital platforms like NLP Marine.
• The collaboration also aligns with India's National Logistics Policy launched in
September 2022, aiming to reduce logistics costs.
DPIIT and World Bank
5.
Additional Information:

• The Logistics Division of DPIIT launched a report titled "Logistics Cost in India:
Assessment and Long-Term Framework”.
o It is prepared by National Council of Applied Economic Research
(NCAER) in collaboration with Asian Development Bank (ADB) experts.
o The report offers a baseline aggregated logistics cost estimate and a
framework for long-term logistics cost calculation.
o The report emphasizes the need for regular estimation of logistics costs
for evidence-based decision-making.

• Entities Involved in the MoU:

o Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Republic of
India.
o Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology,
6. India and Tanzania United Republic of Tanzania.
• Purpose of the MoU:
o To cooperate in the field of sharing successful digital solutions, like India
Stack, implemented at population scale for digital transformation.
• India Stack:

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 o A digital public infrastructure, developed and implemented by India to
provide access and delivery of public services at a population scale.

• Purpose of the MoU:

o To enhance innovation ecosystems through an "Innovation Handshake."
o Strengthen the startup ecosystem in deep tech sectors.
o Promote cooperation in critical and emerging technologies (CET).
• Address regulatory hurdles and foster connectivity between innovation
ecosystems.

About Innovation Handshake:

India and USA • This concept was developed under the US-India Commercial Dialogue.
7. • It will bring the two governments together with institutional stakeholders in
a series of frank discussions.
• Objective: To open up opportunities and address challenges in the priority
sectors identified under the US-India initiative for Critical and Emerging
Technology (iCET).

About iCET:

• It is a framework launched in January, 2023 between India and USA.

• Objective: For cooperation on critical and emerging technologies in areas
including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors and
wireless telecommunication.

• Entities Involved:
o Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India.
o Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Kingdom of
8. India and Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia.
• Purpose:
o To enhance cooperation in the field of Digitization and Electronic
Manufacturing.

• Entities Involved in the MoU:

o Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of
Commerce & Industry, India.
India and Italy o Directorate General for the Protection of Industrial Property-Italian
9.
Patent and Trademark Office, Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy,
Italian Republic.
• Purpose of the MoU:
o Cooperation in the field of Industrial Property Rights (IPR).

• Purpose of the MoU:

o To drive innovation through research partnership, focusing on
Indian Navy and Indian
technology development, innovative solutions, and joint Research &
Institute of Technology (IIT)
10. Development (R&D).
Kanpur
• Areas of Collaboration:
o Engineering and technology development specific to defence needs.

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Ministry of Defence and Bharat
Electronics Limited (BEL)
11.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
S.No Technology in News
1. L07 Compact Delivery Drone
IN-SPACe launches seed fund
2.
scheme for startups
3. Google's Gemini AI Model
DEFENCE EXERCISES/ INITIATIVES/ TECHNOLOGY
S.No Exercise/ Technology
• Purpose of the 10-year Contract:
o Procurement of Electronic Fuzes for the Indian Army to minimize
imports.
• This contract is a part of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative under 'Manufacture
of Ammunition for Indian Army by Indian Industry'.
• Electronic Fuzes are used for medium to heavy calibre Artillery guns.
Key Facts
• Indigenously Developed by: RattanIndia Enterprises Ltd., through its company
Throttle Aerospace Systems.
• Usage: Intended for e-commerce and health care industries, particularly suitable
for small payload deliveries.
• The drone is commercially available for cargo drone operations as prescribed by
the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
• Specifications: It is a VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) drone, with AI-supported
fail-safe features.
• Name of the initiative/programme: Seed Fund Scheme by Indian National Space
Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe).
• Objective: To support startups in urban development and disaster management
using space technology.
• Financial Assistance: Up to Rs 1 crore, with mentorship, training, and networking
opportunities.
• Collaboration: IN-SPACe in partnership with ISRO’s National Remote Sensing
Centre (NRSC).
About IN-SPACe:
• It was created in June 2020 by the Union Government.
• It was created as a single-window, independent agency under the
Department of Space (DOS).
• Objective: To facilitate private sector participation in space activities.
• Gemini is described as Google's "most capable and general model" ever built.
• It is multimodal, capable of understanding and operating across various types
of information including text, code, audio, image, and video.
• The first version, Gemini 1.0, comes in three different models: Ultra, Pro, and
Nano.
o Gemini Ultra: Optimized for highly complex tasks.
o Gemini Pro: Ideal for scaling across a wide range of tasks.
o Gemini Nano: Most efficient for on-device tasks like smartphones.
• The Gemini AI model is part of Google's broader vision as an AI-first company.
Key Facts
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 • Ministry of Defence (MoD) has approved this acquisition worth of 800 crores from
MoD to buy 70,000 More Semi-
US-based Sig Sauer for the Indian Army.
1. Automatic Assault Rifles from
• These rifles are intended for troops engaged in counterterrorism operations and
US
other duties.

• Event: 12th edition of the ‘Admiral’s Cup’ Sailing Regatta.

• Held in December, 2023 at Kerala.
ADMIRAL’S CUP 2023
2. • Winners:
o Team Italy won the Admiral's Cup.
o Team India was Runners-Up.

• Event: Joint Military Exercise VINBAX-2023.

• Held in December, 2023 at Hanoi, Vietnam.

About VINBAX:
VINBAX-2023
3. • VINBAX was instituted in 2018.
• First edition held at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Annual event conducted alternatively in India and Vietnam.
• Objective:
o Foster collaborative partnership, promote interoperability and
share expertise.

SPORTS

S.No Sports Event and Venue Key Facts

• About the Event:

o Held in: December, 2023
o Mascot: 'Ujjwala'
o Location: New Delhi, India.
o Organized by: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
o Participants: from 32 states and union territories, including the
Services Sports Control Board.
o Disciplines: Para athletics, para shooting, para archery, para
football, para badminton, para table tennis, and para weight lifting.
• The event aims to create and fortify an inclusive society that embraces
empathy.
First-ever Khelo India Para • Winner and Runner Up:
1. o Haryana: First champion.
Games
o Uttar Pradesh: Second place.
o Tamil Nadu: Third place.
• Specific Achievements of Athletes:
o Pranav Soorma from Haryana set an Asian record in the F51
category men’s club throw.

Additional Information:

• The games are part of broader government initiatives for the empowerment
of divyangs (persons with disabilities).
• Khelo India has been instrumental in taking sports to the masses and
introducing a scientific and modern approach to sports training in India.

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 2. •

3. •

AWARDS

S.No Award/Milestone Key Facts

• Given By: Brandon Hall Group

• Given To: National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
o NTPC is India’s largest integrated power company.
o NTPC stands out as the only PSU in India to secure dual accolades in the
Technology Awards category.
• Silver Award for excellence in technology in two distinct categories:
o Best Advance in Corporate Wellbeing Technology
o Best Advance in Augmented and Virtual Reality
Brandon Hall Group’s ✓ NTPC implemented AR/VR initiatives under the 'iGuru'
1. Excellence in Technology umbrella.
Awards ✓ NTPC established 'iGuru' Labs and 'Train the Trainer' programs
across training centers.

• About the Award:

o The awards are a part of the US-based Brandon Hall Group's HCM
Excellence Awards program, known as the "Academy Awards of Human
Capital Management."
o Recognize excellence in developing and deploying programs, strategies,
and tools in learning and talent with measurable results.
o Open to organizations worldwide across various sectors.

APPOINTMENT

S.No Person Key Facts

1. Donald Tusk • Elected to the Position of Prime Minister of Poland.

• Why in News: Appointment as the Chief Minister of Mizoram.

• Predecessor: Zoramthanga, leader of the Mizo National Front (MNF).
2. Lalduhoma
• Lalduhoma is the leader of the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) party.
• The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Governor at the Raj Bhavan.

• Why in News: Appointment as the Chief Minister of Telangana.

• Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu also took oath as the deputy Chief minister of the state.
• Governor administered the oath of office in Hyderabad.
3. Anumula Revanth Reddy
• Speaker of the Telangana Legislative Assembly: Gaddam Prasad Kumar.

Do You Know: Telangana is the youngest state in India.

• Why in News: Appointment as the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh.

Vishnu Deo Sai • Predecessor: Bhupesh Baghel, former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh.
4.
• Chhattisgarh Governor administered the oath of office.
• Vijay Sharma and Arun Sao were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers.

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 • Vishnu Deo Sai hails from the influential Sahu (Teli) community.

• Why in News: Appointment as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh

• Predecessor: Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
5. Dr. Mohan Yadav • Shri Jagdish Deora and Rajendra Shukla were also appointed as Deputy Chief
Ministers of Madhya Pradesh.
• Madhya Pradesh Governor administered the oath of office.

• He became the 14th Chief Minister of Rajasthan.

• Predecessor: Ashok Gehlot.
6. Bhajan Lal Sharma • Deputy Chief Ministers of Rajasthan: Smt Diya Kumari and Shri Premchand Bairwa
• Governor administered the oath of office and secrecy to the Chief Minister and
Deputy Chief Ministers.

PERSONS IN NEWS

S.No Personality Key Facts

• Four Indian women – Nirmala Sitharaman, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Soma Mondal,
and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw – are included in Forbes' list of 'The World’s Most
Powerful Women' 2023.
• Nirmala Sitharaman: Ranked 32.
o She is India's first full-time female Finance Minister.
o This is her fifth consecutive year on the list, with her best ranking so far.
• Roshni Nadar Malhotra: Ranked 60.
4 Indian Women in Forbes o She is the Chairperson of HCL Corporation.
World’s 100 Most Powerful • Soma Mondal: Ranked 70.
1. Women o She is the first woman to chair the state-run Steel Authority of India
(SAIL).
• Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw: Ranked 76.
o She is the founder of Biocon.
• Others on the List:
o Politicians like Ursula von der Leyen, Christine Lagarde, Kamala Harris, and
Giorgia Meloni occupy the top 4 spots respectively.
• The list features women from six categories including business, technology,
finance, media and entertainment, politics and policy, and philanthropy.

• Taylor Swift named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year for 2023.
• She became the first woman to appear twice on a Person of the Year cover since
1927.
• First appeared on Time's cover in 2017 as one of the Silence Breakers.
• Her 2022 album "Midnights" was the second most streamed album globally
according to Billboard.

2. Taylor Swift
Historical Background:

• The honour was named “Man of the Year” until 1999.

• Before 1999, only three women had received the title of “Woman of the Year”
individually.
• In 2015, German Chancellor Angela Merkel was the first individual woman to be
named Person of the Year in almost 30 years, followed by environmental activist
Greta Thunberg in 2019.

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 • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy won "Person of the Year" in 2022.

• Why in News: Inauguration of Thiruvalluvar's statue in Cergy, France.

• Thiruvalluvar is a revered poet and philosopher, considered a cultural icon among
Tamils.
• He is best known for his work "Thirukkuṛaḷ," which is a collection of couplets on ethics,
politics, economy, and love.
3. Thiruvalluvar
• He is believed to have lived in the town of Mylapore, now a neighborhood in Chennai,
potentially between the 4th and 6th centuries.
• Thiruvalluvar Day is typically observed on January 15 or 16 as part of the Pongal
celebrations in Tamil Nadu.
• It was first celebrated on May 17 and 18 in 1935.

PLACES IN NEWS

S.No Place Key Facts

• Why in News: Discovery of a new marine amphipod species, named Demaorchestia
alanensis, at Barkul beach in Ganjam district, Odisha.
• The new species was discovered by researchers from Berhampur University, Odisha.
Chilika Lake, Odisha
• Named after professor Alan Myers, a global expert in marine amphipod studies.
• This discovery increases the global species number in the genus Demaorchestia to six.
1.
• The family Talitridae, to which this new species belongs, is considered one of the
oldest groups of amphipods.

Do You Know: Amphipods are a type of shrimp-like crustacean found in a variety of aquatic
environments, including freshwater, marine, and brackish waters.

DAYS IN NEWS

S.No Days Themes & Misc.

• Celebrated on December 14 every year since 1991.

• Aim: To spread the message on the importance of conserving energy and to
showcase the achievements of the nation in energy efficiency and conservation.
• Organized by: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under Ministry of Power.
• National Energy Conservation Awards 2023: To recognize and encourage
endeavours of industrial units, institutions, and establishments in reducing
energy consumption since December 14, 1991.
• National Energy Efficiency Innovation Awards (NEEIA) 2023: To recognize
National Energy Conservation
1. outstanding work and innovative minds of India in the area of Energy Efficiency
Day, 2023
since 2021.
• National Painting Competition 2023: To continually bring change in the society
towards conservation and efficient use of energy.
o Being organized since 2005.

About BEE:

• Set up the on March 1, 2002 under the provisions of the Energy Conservation
Act, 2001.

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 • Mission: To assist in developing policies and strategies with a thrust on self-
regulation and market principles, within the overall framework of the Energy
Conservation Act, 2001.
• Primary objective: Reducing the energy intensity of the Indian economy.

• Celebrated annually on December 10, 2023.

• 2023 Theme: "Freedom, Equality and Justice for All”.
• Significance: The Day serves as a powerful reminder of the fundamental rights and
freedoms that belong to every individual, regardless of background, and
underscores the collective responsibility to uphold and protect these rights.
• Human Rights Day was formally established in 1950.
• This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
(UDHR).
2. Human Rights Day 2023 o The UDHR was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris
on December 10, 1948, marking a historic commitment to fundamental
human rights.

About Human Rights 75 initiative:

• It is a year-long initiative whose three main goals focus on universality, progress

and engagement under the leadership of UN Human Rights.

Do You Know: UHDR is the most translated document in the world, available in over 500
languages.

• Date of Celebration: Annually on 5 December.

• 2023 Theme of the Day: "Soil and Water, a Source of Life".
• World Soil Day (WSD) focuses on the importance of healthy soil and advocates for
sustainable soil resource management.

Background:
3. World Soil Day (WSD) 2023
• Recommended by: International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) in 2002
• Endorsed by: FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) Conference in June 2013.
• Officially adopted by the 68th UN General Assembly in December 2013.
• Significance of the Date: Chosen to correspond with the birthday of H.M. King
Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, who sanctioned the event.
• Recognition: Officially recognized in 2016 in memory of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

MISCELLANEOUS

S.No News Key Facts

• 3066 parents read to their children to promote reading culture in the
society through storytelling.
• It was held at SP College, Pune.
Guiness World Record of largest • The four-minute reading activity broke the previous world record set by
1. China.
reading activity
• Event Organized by: National Book Trust (NBT), in association with the Pune
Municipal Corporation (PMC).
o NBT is an autonomous body under the Union education ministry.

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 • Location: Nagaland.
• Duration: 10 days, from December 1 to December 10, coinciding with
Nagaland Statehood Day (1 December).
• Named after the hornbill, a culturally significant bird in Naga folklore.
• Objective: Vibrant celebration among 16 Naga tribes with colourful
costumes, music, and dance to promote Nagaland's culture, heritage, and
2. 24th Hornbill Festival 2023
traditions.
• Revival of Morung, essential cultural centres, as immersive displays of Naga
heritage.

Do You Know: The Morung is a social institution where unmarried Konyak Naga men
come to learn about the tribe’s customs and traditions.

• This word has been chosen as Cambridge dictionary’s word of the year for
2023.
• Meaning of the Word: To “seem to see, hear, feel, or smell” something that
3. Hallucinate does not exist.
• The psychological verb gained an extra meaning in 2023 that ‘gets to the
heart of why people are talking about artificial intelligence’.

About Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan:

• Founded in: 1963, for the benefit of the wards of central government staff.
• It is a system of central government schools, instituted under the aegis of
Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
4. Celebrates Diamond Jubilee (60 • As of April 2023, it has a total of 1,253 schools in India and three abroad in
years) Kathmandu, Moscow and Tehran.
• It is one of the world's largest chains of schools and the largest chain of
schools in India.
• It is a non-profit organisation, and all its schools are affiliated with the
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

2. ESI in News

SOCIAL SECTOR IN INDIA- HEALTH

2.1 Ayushman Bhav Campaign

Why in news?

• Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare recently gave an update on Ayushman Bhav
Campaign.
• Ayushman Card Created: The nationwide count stands at 30,024,031.
o Uttar Pradesh leads in Ayushman Card creation with a total of 14,578,010 cards, followed by
Gujarat with 1,809,370 cards, and Maharashtra with 6,645,039 cards.
• Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs Created: Count for ABHA IDs is 35,577,277.

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 o Uttarakhand takes lead in ABHA ID creation with an impressive total of 10,314,553 IDs, followed
by Gujarat with 4,099,525 IDs, and Punjab with 1,999,674 IDs.

About Ayushman Bhav Campaign

• Launch year: September, 2023

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• Implementing Agency: National Health Authority (NHA) QuickFact
• Objectives: To ensure Saturation of healthcare services, early NHA is apex body responsible for
diagnosis, increased access to specialist services, and healthcare implementing India’s flagship public
awareness. health insurance/assurance scheme
• Focus area: It involves 3 key components called “Ayushman Bharat Pradhan
Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana” & has
o Ayushman - Apke Dwar 3.0 enables eligible beneficiaries
been entrusted with the role of
to create Ayushman cards for themselves or their family
designing strategy, building
members through an Android-based app.
technological infrastructure and
o Ayushman Melas at Health and Wellness Centres (HWC)
implementation of “National Digital
and Community Health Center (CHC) are weekly health
Health Mission” to create a National
fairs that prioritize delivery of super-specialty healthcare
Digital Health Eco-system.
services, including non-communicable disease It is the successor of National Health
screenings, tele-consultations, free medicines, and Agency, which was reconstituted as
diagnostics. the National Health Authority on
o Ayushman Sabhas are community-level assemblies led 2nd January 2019.
by Village Health and Sanitation Committee (VHSNC) in
rural areas or Ward Committee or Municipal Advisory
Committee (MAS) in urban wards that ensure comprehensive health coverage and optimal
healthcare service delivery.
• Gram Panchayats that successfully meet their healthcare objectives and attain the status of Ayushman
Gram Panchayats.
• Target: To achieve saturation coverage of healthcare services by October 2nd, 2023

2.2 Mental Health Services

Why in news?
• The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare recently gave an update on Mental Health
Services in rural areas.

Key highlights
• For providing affordable and accessible mental healthcare facilities government is implementing the
National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) in the country.
o District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) component of NMHP in 738 districts for which
support is provided to States/UTs through the National Health Mission.
o Facilities under DMHP at Community Health Centre (CHC) and Primary Health Centre (PHC)
levels, include outpatient services, assessment, counselling/ psycho-social interventions,
continuing care and support to persons with severe mental disorders, drugs, outreach services,
ambulance services etc.
o Provision of 10 bedded in-patient facilities at the district level.

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 o Funds under Non-communicable Diseases flexi-pool of NHM for awareness generation activities
in community, schools, workplaces.
o Under the tertiary care component of NMHP, 25 Centres of Excellence have been sanctioned to
increase the intake of students in PG departments in mental health specialities as well as to
provide tertiary level treatment facilities.
• National Tele Mental Health Programme to improve access to quality mental health counselling and
care services. As of December 2023, 34 States/ UTs have set up 46 Tele MANAS Cells for tele mental
health services.
• To ensure holistic development of adolescent population, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
implements the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) since 2014.
o RKSK covers both school going and non-school going adolescents.
o RKSK through its interventions namely Adolescent Friendly Health Clinics (AFHC), Peer
Education Programme and Adolescent Health and Wellness Days (AH&WD) focusing on creating
awareness.
• Ayushman Bharat School Health & Wellness Programme
o Health and Wellness Ambassadors (Teachers) are trained on mental health to support and
provide awareness to school children on mental well-being.
o Training focuses on identifying self-emotions signs of distress in self and others and recognizing
that ‘mental health and well-being’ exists along a continuum.
o NCERT has developed a comprehensive package titled “Training and Resource Material: Health
and Wellness of School-going Children”.
o A specific module on “Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health”, which has activities related to
the mental health and well-being of students and teachers.
• Modular Handbook on Early Identification and Intervention for Mental Health Problems in School Going
Children in collaboration with Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI).
• The Ministry of Education has taken up a proactive initiative, named, ‘Manodarpan’, covering activities
to provide psychosocial support to students, teachers and families for Mental Health and Emotional
Wellbeing during the COVID outbreak and beyond.
• Live interactive sessions on ‘SAHYOG: Guidance for Mental Wellbeing of Children’ are telecast on 12 PM
e-Vidya DTH-TV channels for classes 1 to 12.
• To handle stress and anxiety, recorded videos on Yoga are telecast through 12 DTH TV channels from
Classes 1 to 12 and also digital resources on digital platforms like DIKSHA.
• Since 2018 online training courses to general healthcare medical and para medical professionals
through Digital Academies established at-
o National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru
o Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health, Tezpur, Assam
o Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi
• National Mental Health Survey (NMHS), 2016 of India through the National Institute of Mental Health
and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru in 12 States of the country-
o Prevalence of mental disorders in adults over 18 years of age is 10.6%.
o Prevalence of mental morbidity is higher in urban metro regions (13.5%) as compared to rural
areas (6.9%) and urban non-metro areas (4.3%).

2.3 Update on Organ Transplantation

Why in news?

• The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare recently informed about steps taken to
improve the rate of organ donation in the country.

Key highlights

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 • Dissemination of information by National Organ & Tissue Transplantation Organization (NOTTO),
Regional OTTOs and State SOTTOs set up under National Organ Transplant Program (NOTP).
• Government recognized process of organ donation as permitted, illegality & repercussions associated
with indulgence in organ trafficking mentioned in the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues
Act, 1994.
• As a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is running a organ donation
pledge campaign and slogan competition on MyGov platform.
• As a part of “Angdaan Mahotsav” initiated in the month of July 2023, various awareness programmes
on deceased donor organ donation are being organized across the country.
• A website ‘www.notto.mohfw.gov.in’ is operational along with a 24x7 call center having a toll-free
helpline number (1800114770) to provide information, tele-counseling and to help in coordination for
organ donation.
• Activities are organized across the country for generating awareness, such as celebration of Indian
Organ Donation Day (IODD) annually, seminars, workshops, debates, sports events, walkathons,
marathons, nukkad natak, NOTTO Scientific Dialogue 2023 etc.
• Display boards on organ donation are exhibited outside ICUs and other strategic locations in the
transplant/retrieval hospitals.
• Advertisements are published in print media, dissemination of audio and audio-visual messages is done
through social media, electronic media etc.
• The kidney transplantation package has been included under PM-JAY scheme of Ayushman Bharat by
the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• Also, under Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN), financial support upto Rs. 15 lakh is provided by the Ministry
to the patients who are below poverty line for transplantation of Heart, Lung, Liver, Kidney, etc.
• Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994 provides for an Appropriate Authority to be
appointed by every State/UT, for investigating any complaint or breach of any of the provisions of this
Act, or any of the Rules there under.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT

2.4 Ethanol blending in India

Why in news?
• Minister of State for Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas recently gave an updates upon Ethanol
blending in India.
Key Highlights
• Government promoting blending of ethanol in petrol under it with objectives: reducing import
dependence, savings in foreign exchange, providing boost to domestic agriculture sector and for
associated environmental benefits.
• The Government has achieved the target of 10% average blending of ethanol in Petrol in the country
under Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme in June, 2022 (5 months ahead of the target of
November, 2022.)
• The Government has set target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol under EBP programme by Ethanol
Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26.

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 • As per the “Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India
2020-25”, a successful E20 program can save the
country about 4 billion US Dollar (USD) per
annum.
• Under EBP Programme, Public Sector Oil Marketing
Companies (OMCs) have saved approximately 509
crore litres of petrol on account of ethanol
blending during the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY)
2022-23 resulting in savings of more than Rs.
24,300 crore of foreign exchange and expeditious
payment of about Rs. 19,300 crore to farmers
bolstering the agriculture sector.
• Government has approved assistance to a total of
1212 projects including 590 molasses-based; 474
grain-based; and 148 dual-feed based projects
under interest subvention scheme to enhance
ethanol production under EBP.
2.5 "4E Wave" Movement
QuickFact
Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) led by India as G20
Chair, launched on 9 September 2023, on the
sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi.
• To expedite global uptake of biofuels through
capacity building exercises, technical support for
national programs and promoting policy
lessons-sharing
• To facilitate development, adoption and
implementation of internationally recognized
standards, codes, sustainability principles, and
regulations to incentivize biofuels adoption and
trade.
• The Alliance will also work as a central
repository of knowledge and an expert hub.

Why in news?

• The "4E Wave" movement, a student-led initiative for energy conservation, was launched recently by
the Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy.

About "4E Wave" movement

• Aim: To promote sustainable practices and encourage nationwide participation in energy conservation.
• Launched by: Students of Government College of Engineering and Technology (GCET), Jammu.
• Supported by: J&K Power Development Department and Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of
Power, Government of India.
• Key elements:
o Eco-friendliness: Promoting environmentally friendly energy-saving practices
o Economy: Emphasizing energy-saving solutions that lead to economic benefits for individuals and
communities
o Education: Focusing on educating public about energy- saving methods
o Empowerment: Empowering individuals and communities to take active roles in conserving
energy
• Features:
o Web portal ‘www.4ewave.com’ as interactive platform to the citizens nationwide for
information and resource-sharing related to energy conservation.
o Portal requires a simple registration process for on-boarding in the movement and the
participants are provided with certificates of acknowledgment.
o Any Indian citizen can be a part of this campaign.
o Participants will get personalized energy-saving tips tailored to their consumption patterns,
regular updates on latest developments in energy conservation.
o A dynamic platform for sharing articles on energy conservation for publication in the e-
magazine named ‘e-kshitij’ to be published quarterly.

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 o It will host contests focusing on energy conservation, providing an interactive experience for
users.

2.6 Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines

Why in news?

• Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways recently informed about the “HaritSagar” Green Port
Guidelines.
• Deendayal Port, Visakhapatnam Port and New Mangalore Port are generating surplus renewable
energy.
• The management and notification of berth/jetty in Major Ports for chemicals and dangerous materials
are being carried out as per the Port Regulation framed in the ambit of the Explosive Act, 1884.
• The Government has issued Policy Guidelines for Land Management (PGLM), 2015 for optimum
utilization of Port Land.

About “HaritSagar” Green Port Guidelines

• Launch year: May 2023.

• Launched by: the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
• Aim: to reduce carbon intensity and to develop an
environment-friendly ecosystem at all Major Ports.
• Key guidelines:
o Promote the adoption of best practices and QuickFact.
technologies for green port development and
• GRI is independent, global non-
operations, such as renewable energy, water
profit entity that provides widely
conservation, biodiversity protection, and climate
recognized framework for
resilience.
sustainability reporting.
o Provision for adopting the Green Global Reporting
• The Universal, Sector, and Topic
Initiative (GRI) standard.
Standards are GRI’s 3 main
o Establish a rating system for assessing and
standards.
benchmarking the environmental performance of
• It increases an organization’s
ports based on various indicators and parameters. transparency, enhance stakeholder
o Incentivize and recognize the ports that achieve high engagements, and help mitigate an
standards of environmental excellence and organization’s risks.
sustainability.
o Facilitate the integration of green port principles
into the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of port infrastructure and
services.
• Features:
o Cover aspects of National Green Hydrogen Mission pertaining to ports, development of green
hydrogen facility, LNG bunkering, Offshore Wind Energy, usage of alternate fuels as green
Hydrogen/Ammonia/Methanol in port crafts.
o Aligned with India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable
Development Goals, as well as the national policies and initiatives such as the National Action
Plan on Climate Change, and the Swachh Bharat Mission.
• Significance:

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 o Expected to enhance India’s image and reputation as a responsible maritime nation that cares
for its environment and its people.
o Expected to create new opportunities for innovation, investment, employment, and
collaboration in the port sector.

SOCIAL JUSTICE
2.7 Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards and IQ testing tool

Why in news?
• The Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment presented one croreth Unique Disability ID (UDID)
card to 2-year-old girl from Madhya Pradesh, highlighting significant achievement of government's
efforts in empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
• Also presented Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards to seven PwDs, generated using the pioneering Indian
IQ testing tool.
• Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) were about 2.68 crore as per the 2011 census.

About Unique Disability ID (UDID) Card

• Launch Year: 2017.
• Implementing Agency: Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of
Social Justice and Empowerment
• Aim: To provide a unique identity to Divyangjan and create a comprehensive database for strategic
welfare planning.
• Features:
o Empower PwDs with a unique identity card, facilitating better coordination and welfare
planning.
o It has been linked to various schemes, including skill training, scholarship application
verifications, National Trust insurance schemes (Niramaya), DDRS beneficiaries, RCI regulated
institutions, free clinical services, and education in National Institutes and CRCs.
o Simplifications in application process implemented to enhance user-friendliness, and Aadhaar
linkage has been made mandatory to prevent card duplication and expedite generation.

About Indigenous IQ Testing Tool:

• Developed by: National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID),
Secunderabad.
• Endorsed by: Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Government of India.
• Aim: To assess the cognitive abilities of individuals with disabilities.
• Features: A pioneering tool expected to play a crucial role in assessing cognitive abilities, aligning with
the Make in India initiative.

2.8 'National Portal for Transgender Persons' and 'Garima Greh: A Shelter Home for
Transgender Persons'

Why in news?
• Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment informed about updates related to the 'National Portal
for Transgender Persons' and 'Garima Greh: A Shelter Home for Transgender Persons'.

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 • Government has not set up new Garima Greh shelters apart
from existing 12 Garima Grehs.
• Out of 24,115 Trangender Certificate applications received,
15,803 certificates issued. QuickFact
• Top 5 states: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West • The initiatives are under the
Bengal, Tamil Nadu Transgender Persons (Protection of
Rights) Act, 2019, and aims to bring
National Portal for Transgender Persons transgender persons into the
• Launch year: Nov 2020 mainstream of society.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment • The Act's implementation is
• Aim/Objective: To facilitate the issuance of Transgender supported by the Transgender
Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules,
Certificates and Identity Cards, ensuring convenience and
2020.
dignity.
• Features:
o Facilitates digital application for a Certificate and Identity card for transgender individuals across
India.
o It ensures transparency and eliminates need for physical interface or office visits.
o For Transgender specific medical service like gender re-assignment surgery it is mandatory to
have transgender identity certificate and for general medical service requirement, the
transgender persons can avail the service through Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospitals.
o The Ministry, through National Institute of Social Defence, organizes sensitization and
awareness programme from time to time for district functionaries to reduce the pendency in
granting TG Certificates.

About Garima Greh Shelter Home

• Launch year: Nov 2020 (1st in Vadodara, Gujarat)
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
• Aim/Objective: To provide shelter and support services to transgender persons.
• Features:
o Rehabilitate and empower transgender persons, enhancing their quality of life.
o It provides shelter, basic amenities, medical care, and recreational facilities along with capacity-
building and skill development opportunities.
o Setting up of new Garima Greh is considered as and when requested by State government and
subject to eligibility criteria.
o The initiative is part of effort to establish 13 shelter homes in 10 cities across India.

2.9 Pro Bono Legal Services Programme (Nyaya Bandhu)

Why in news?
• Ministry of Law and Justice has recently released updates related to Pro Bono Legal Services programme.
o 10629 advocates have directly registered across 24 State Bar Councils.
o 89 Law schools have joined the Pro Bono Club Scheme.
o 22 High Courts have constituted Pro Bono Panels in which 1354 advocates have enrolled.

About Pro Bono Legal Services Programme

• Launch year: in 2017.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Law and Justice

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 • Implemented by: Department of Justice
• Aim:
o To enhance "access to justice" for marginalized
sections of the society. QuickFact
o To fulfil state's constitutional obligation of • Recently launched (Aug 2023) Tele-Law -
providing "free legal aid" for all. 2.0 integrates Tele-Law and Nyaya
• Features: Bandhu App to ensure access to Justice.
• It enables common citizen to access legal
o Offered under the umbrella scheme “Designing
advice, legal assistance and legal
Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to
representation through a single
Justice” (DISHA) Scheme launched for 2021-
registration and single gateway of Tele-
2026 by Ministry of Law and Justice. Law.
o Applicant includes any individual who is
marginalized or disadvantaged as per the
definition laid out under Legal Services Authority, Act 1987. Like-
✓ Member of a Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe
✓ Woman or a Child, Person with disability, Person in custody, An industrial workman,
Victim of trafficking in human beings or beggar
✓ Victim of a mass disaster, ethnic violence, caste atrocity, flood, drought, earthquake or
industrial disaster
o Advocate is any lawyer with a valid practicing license registered with any State Bar Council is
eligible to volunteer his/her legal services.
o Nyaya Bandhu app to improve access to justice by enabling marginalized "Applicants," to
connect with volunteered "Advocates" through a mobile.
o Pro Bono Club Scheme has been conceptualized to strengthen the existing pro bono programme,
by integrating law schools and students within its fold.
✓ Selected law students (as ‘Pro Bono Associates’ or PBA) are attached to law schools and
helmed by a dedicated faculty in-charge.
✓ It improves efficiency and quality of pro bono legal services by providing assistance to pro
bono advocates through law students.
✓ Instill in young legal minds their responsibility to community.
o Pro Bono Panels to strengthen the Nyaya Bandhu network: Department of Justice has set up and
integrated pro bono panels of lawyers in each High Court (curated and moderated by the
respective High Courts).

GLOBALIZATION
2.10 Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit

Why in news?

• PM inaugurated Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit.

o Venue: Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
• India as the current incoming Support Chair of GPAI and the Lead Chair for GPAI in 2024 hosted this
Annual GPAI Summit.
• India brought together all major initiatives for AI – UN Advisory Group on AI, UK AI Safety Summit at
one event. Also brought together representatives from 28 member countries and the European Union
for discussions on various AI-related topics.

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 • The summit witnessed the participation of AI Gamechangers, 50+ GPAI experts and 150+ speakers
from across the countries.

Key highlights

• Research Symposium facilitated by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

o Under theme “Advancing Responsible AI in Public-Sector Applications.
o Platform for fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
o 15 exceptional authors delivered insightful presentations. Symposium's culmination will be
marked by release of ‘Book of Extended Abstracts’.
• MeitY organised the AI Gamechangers Award to recognize and award AI entrepreneurs and innovators.
Top 10 Startups were selected by Review Committee.
• YUVAi (Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI) represented at the GPAI Summit with its Top 10 finalists
showcasing their AI-based social impact projects.
• PM announced launch of new artificial intelligence (AI) mission to promote related applications in
agriculture, healthcare and education sectors.
• Touting government’s AIRAWAT (AI Research, Analytics and Knowledge Assimilation) initiative, PM said
that the AI-based cloud computing infrastructure would soon be rolled out for homegrown startups,
research labs and industry players.
• Sessions were held on ‘Applications of AI in Priority Sectors’ focused on the challenges and opportunities
in adoption of AI by industries ‘Responsible AI Working Group’ about scaling responsible AI solutions
challenges associated with building AI solutions responsibly and 'AI and Global Health: Role of AI In
Advancing Healthcare'.

Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI)

• Started in: 2020 with 15 members

• Aim: to bridge the gap between AI theory and practice, focusing on responsible AI and addressing global
AI-related challenges.
• Member Countries: 28 member countries and the European Union are participating. (India is one of the
founding members)

About YUVAi Programme

• Launched by: National e-Governance Division (NeGD), MeitY in collaboration with Intel India
• Aim: To enable school students with AI skills and foster a deeper understanding of AI, making them
human-centric designers and users of AI.
• The program includes three phases:
o Initial registration and orientation
o Online deep dive AI training and mentorship
o Final workshop with one-on-one mentorship to develop prototypes.
• Students to submit ideas (individually or in teams of 2) through a 120-second video explaining AI
enabled solution to solve social problems for any one of 8 core themes:-
o Krishi – AI in Agriculture
o Aarogya – AI in Healthcare
o Shiksha – AI in Education
o Paryavaran – AI in environment & clean energy
o Parivahan – AI in transportation

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 o Grameen Vikas – AI for Rural Development
o Shahar Vikas - AI for Smart Cities
o Vidhi aur Nyaay - AI in Law & Justice
• It is for school students from class 8th to 12th across India.
• In its last iteration (Responsible AI for Youth) offered select students, the opportunity to interact with
and showcase their solutions to Prime Minister, at the Digital India Week 2022, Gandhinagar.

2.11 Infinity Forum 2.0

Why in news?
• Infinity Forum 1.0 hosted
• 2nd edition of Infinity Forum, focusing on FinTech, recently addressed by International Financial
by the Prime Minister via video conferencing. Services Centres
Authority (IFSCA), under
• It served as precursor to Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024.
the aegis of Government
• Witnessed the participation of 300+ CXOs with strong online of India in collaboration
participation from India and a global audience across 20+ countries with GIFT City and
including the USA, UK, Singapore, South Africa, UAE, Australia and Bloomberg in December
Germany. 2021.
• Indonesia, South Africa
and the U.K. as partner
About Infinity Forum 2.0 countries.

• Organized by: the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) and GIFT City under the
Government of India's aegis.
• Objective: To promote India as a leader in FinTech and discuss the role of GIFT-IFSC as a global
financial services hub.
• The theme was ‘GIFT-IFSC: Nerve Centre for New Age Global Financial Services’ following three tracks:
• Plenary Track: Making of a New Age International Financial Centre
• Green Track: Making a case for a “Green Stack”
• Silver Track: Longevity Finance Hub at GIFT IFSC

About IFSCA

• Established on April 27, 2020 under the International Financial Services Centres Authority Act, 2019.
• It is headquartered at GIFT City, Gandhinagar in Gujarat.
• Role of IFSCA
o It is a unified authority for development and regulation of financial products, financial services
and financial institutions in IFSC in India.
o At present, the GIFT IFSC is the maiden international financial services centre in India. Prior to
the establishment of IFSCA, the domestic financial regulators, namely, RBI, SEBI, PFRDA and IRDAI
regulated the business in IFSC.

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2.12 International Maritime Organization (IMO) Green Voyage2050 Project

Why in news?

• Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways informed

that India has been selected as the pioneer lead country for
IMO Green Voyage2050 Project.
QuickFact
• India is a signatory to the International Convention for
• India recently re-elected to
Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), addressing
International Maritime Organisation
maritime transport sector emissions. (IMO) Council with highest tally at
• India has implemented all MARPOL regulations and projects elections held at its Assembly in
Selected are: London for the 2024-25 biennium.
o Fitment of waste heat recovery system on a bulk • India's re-election falls under the
carrier by Ambuja Cements Limited. Category of 10 states with "the largest
o Greening of inland ferries by Directorate of Inland interest in international seaborne
Water Transport (IWT) Assam/Assam IWT trade".
Development Society.
o Greening of inland ferries by Kochi Water Metro Ltd.
o Greening of passenger wooden ferries by Mumbai Port Authority.
o Electric hybrid tugs by Ocean Sparkle Ltd.
• National Centre of Excellence for Green Ports and Shipping (NCoEGPS) is established to provide policy
and regulatory support for green shipping.
• India has permitted use of sustainable biofuels and their blends as fuels by Indian ships.
• A digital module is operational to capture fuel consumption details from ship operations, ensuring
efficient operations.
• The Energy & Resources Institute (TERI) houses and leads NCoEGPS.
• The Memorandum of Agreement for NCoEGPS signed between Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways (MoPSW) along with Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla; Paradip Port Authority, Paradip; V.O.
Chidambaranar Port Authority, Thoothukudi; Cochin Shipyard Limited, Kochi and The Energy &
Resources Institute (TERI).

About Green Voyage2050 Project

• Launch year: May 2019

• Launched by: Jointly by the Government of Norway and the IMO.
• Aim: to transform the shipping industry for a lower carbon future, supporting developing countries to
meet climate change and energy efficiency goals by helping them reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions
from ships.
• Features:
o Overall goal is to support implementation of Initial IMO GHG Strategy to reduce the total annual
GHG emissions by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008.
o It strengthens MARPOL Annex VI compliance, facilitate sharing of operational best practices,
catalyse the uptake of energy efficient technologies and explore opportunities for low- and zero-
carbon fuels.
o Components of the project:
✓ Component 1 – Developing global tools to support implementation of the Initial IMO
GHG Strategy
✓ Component 2 – Capacity building, policy and National Action Plan development

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 ✓ Component 3 – Strategic partnership development
✓ Component 4 – Technology cooperation, innovation and pilot demonstrations
o Partnering Countries:
✓ Azerbaijan, Belize, China, Cook Islands, Ecuador, Georgia, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Solomon
Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka.
✓ These countries are participating as either a New Pilot Country (NPC) or a Pioneer Pilot
Country (PPC).
o It is currently in its first phase
o It is funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment for an initial period up to
December 2023 (NOK 64.5 million).

2.13 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) to the UNFCCC

Why in news?
India ratified the United Nations
• Recently, COP-28 to the United Nations Framework Convention
Framework Convention on
on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Dubai, United Arab
Climate. Change (UNFCCC) in
Emirates. 1993.
• On the sidelines of this conference numbers of side events were It’s headquarter is in Bonn,
held. Germany. It is not legally binding.
It set framework for limiting the
PM participated in COP-28 Presidency’s Session on Transforming emissions of Green House Gases
Climate Finance (GHS) by individual countries.
The first COP meeting was held in
• PM participated in the COP-28 Presidency’s Session on Berlin, Germany in March, 1995.
COP27 held at the Sharm el-
"Transforming Climate Finance”.
Sheikh in Egypt in 2022.
• The event focussed on making climate finance more available,
accessible, and affordable to developing countries.
• Leaders adopted the "UAE Declaration on a New Global Climate Finance Framework”.
• It includes delivering on commitments and achieving ambitious outcomes and widening the sources of
concessional finance for climate action.
• Loss and Damage Fund operationalized:
o Aimed at compensating countries grappling with climate change impacts.
o The World Bank is designated as the "temporary custodian" of the fund for a 4-year period, in
alignment with both UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.
o Eligibility for application is open to all developing nations, with an extended invitation for
voluntary contributions from every country.
o A dedicated portion is allocated for the benefit of Least Developed Countries and Small Island
Developing States.
• Establishment of the UAE climate Investment Fund:
o US$30 billion commitment to an investment fund called ALTÉRRA.
o The privately managed fund aims to mobilise US$250 billion globally by 2030 and be the largest
of its kind, geared towards climate investments and transform emerging markets and developing
economies.
o ALTÉRRA will have four key verticals namely: Energy Transition, Industrial Decarbonization,
Sustainable Living and Climate Technologies.
• PM called for the COP-28 to deliver on the following issues related to Climate Finance:
o Progress in New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance
o Replenishment of Green Climate Fund & Adaptation Fund

28 | P a g e
 o Affordable Finance to be made available by Multilateral Development Banks for Climate Action
o Developed countries must eliminate their carbon footprint before 2050

LeadIT Summit and Phase-II of Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT 2.0)

• Launched by: Co- launched by India and Sweden

• Duration: for the period 2024-26
• Vision: by 2030, industry is aligned with the Paris Agreement, accelerating pathways towards a just
and equitable industrial transition and net-zero emissions by 2050.
• Mission: Drive the development of policy and regulatory frameworks supporting an inclusive, just and
equitable industry transition by fostering public-private partnerships, mobilising resources and
supporting knowledge.
• Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced its 3 pillars:
o Inclusive & Just Industry Transition
o Co-development & transfer of low-carbon technology
o Financial support to emerging economies for Industry Transition
• LeadIT was co-launched at UN Climate Action Summit in New York in 2019.
• Also launched the Industry Transition Platform, which will connect the governments, industries,
technology providers, researchers and think tanks of the two countries.
• Industry Transition Platform (ITP) developed between India and Sweden with an objective to strengthen
institutional framework & foster low-carbon transition pathways.
• Another ITP between the UK and Brazil.

Global Green Credit Initiative

• India and UAE co-hosted the High-level event on ‘Green Credits Programme’ and invited all nations to
join this Initiative.
• Aim: to facilitate global collaboration, cooperation and partnership through exchange of knowledge,
experiences and best practices in planning, implementation and monitoring of environment positive
actions through programs/mechanisms like Green Credits.
• It envisions the issue of Green Credits for plantations on waste/degraded lands and river catchment
areas, to rejuvenate and revive natural eco-systems.
• A web platform, which would serve as a repository of policies and best practices that incentivize
environment-friendly actions, was also launched (https://ggci-world.in/).

Prime Minister’s meeting with the United Nations Secretary-General

• UN Secretary-General appreciated India's efforts in areas of sustainable development, climate action,

MDB reforms, and Disaster management under G20 Presidency.
• He welcomed India’s Green Credit Initiative.
• He affirmed to work with India to build on the achievements of India’s Presidency and take them
forward at the UN Summit of the Future 2024.

Special Address by PM during High-Level Segment Inauguration

• India's Environmental Balance:

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 o Despite 17% of world's population, India contributes less than 4% to global carbon emissions.
o On track to meet NDC targets, achieved emission intensity and non-fossil fuel targets ahead of
schedule.
o Aims for a 45% reduction in emissions intensity by 2030, with a target of 50% non-fossil fuel
share and net-zero emissions by 2070.
• Mentioned G-20 Initiatives under India’s Presidency:
o Theme itself emphasized climate issues with "One Earth, One Family, One Future."
o Agreement on Green Development Pact and principles of Lifestyles for Sustainable
Development and launch of Global Biofuels Alliance.
o Commitment to triple global renewable energy and promotion of Hydrogen for Alternative Fuels.
• Past efforts by India at COP-26 in Glasgow:
o Infrastructure Resilience initiative for 'Island States'.
o Mission LiFE – Lifestyle for Environment vision, aiming to reduce carbon emissions.
• Proposed the Green Credits initiative by moving beyond commercial carbon credits to encourage
creation of carbon sink with the public participation.
• Proposed Global Pledges:
o Decisiveness: Calls for fulfilling climate targets and commitments.
o Unity: Advocates cooperation and support among nations.
o Balance: Stresses maintaining equilibrium in Adaptation, Mitigation, Climate finance, Technology,
and Loss and damage.
o Ambition: Resolves for a just, inclusive, and equitable energy transition.
o Innovation: Encourages continuous development of innovative technology and sharing it globally.
• Commitment to UN Framework:
o Reiterated India's commitment to the UN Framework for Climate Change Process.
o Proposed to host COP-33 summit in India in 2028.

Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) by India

• Launch year: 2023

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti
• Implementing Agency: National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)
• Aim/Objective: To advance sustainable river management and climate resilience through international
collaboration.
• Features:
o It is a comprehensive alliance with over 275 river-cities across 11 countries, including
international funding agencies and knowledge partners.
✓ World Bank, ADB, AIIB, and KPMG expressed their support.
✓ India, Egypt, Netherlands, Denmark, Ghana, Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Japan, Hungary,
and the USA are part of it.
o Focuses on urban river management plans (URMPs), river-city twinning and knowledge
exchange and engagement.
o National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) signed Memorandum of Common Purpose (MoCP)
with Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI) as a part of GRCA.
• River Cities Alliance (RCA):
o Launch Year: 2021
o Ministry Involved: Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)

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 o Implementing Agency: National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and National Institute of
Urban Affairs (NIUA)
o Aim/Objective: To enhance the sustainable development of river cities globally.
o 143 member cities, including Aarhus in Denmark, with a focus on urban river management.

World Bank President attended High Level Segment Summit on Methane

• The World Bank announced its intent to launch at least 15 country-led programs.
• Aim: to slash up to 10 million tons of methane over investment lifespans.
• Duration: 18 months
• Methane is 80 times more dangerous than carbon dioxide when it comes to warming the planet, making
it a major driver of climate change.
• Finance for methane abatement accounting for less than 2% of global climate finance.
• Addressing methane emissions is a cost-effective way to reduce the dangerous rise in global
temperatures.
• New national programs build on successful pilots that 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, better manure treatment and diverted organic waste
from landfills to 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.
• This comprehensive approach to methane reduction achieves triple wins: abating emissions, enhancing
resilience, and empowering livelihoods.
• Between 2024 and 2030, the World Bank expects to significantly boost its financing through public and
private sector channels for methane reduction.
• World Bank is working with Germany, Norway, United States, UAE and private sector to cut methane
emissions across the whole energy value chain.
• Two partnership platforms for accelerated methane action:
o The Global Methane Reduction Platform for Development (CH4D), a hub for methane
abatement in agriculture and waste,
o Global Flaring and Methane Reduction Partnership (GFMR) focuses on reducing methane leaks
in the oil and gas sector.

Union Forest Minister attended Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC) Ministerial Meeting
• Launch year: during COP27 at the Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt in 2022.
• Aim:
o To raise awareness about significance of mangroves and their role in reducing global warming.
o To scale up, accelerate conservation, restoration, and plantation efforts for mangrove
ecosystems worldwide.
• Spearheaded by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in collaboration with Indonesia.
• Partners from countries such as India, Australia, Japan, Spain, and Sri Lanka.
• 1% reduction in mangrove loss could prevent the release of 200 million tons of carbon.

31 | P a g e
 • As part of this effort, recently Indian government rolled out the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline
Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI).
o Under it mangrove plantations along coastline and on salt pans are being taken up.
o It will provide ecological co-benefits in terms of indirect economic growth worth Rs. 51.78 billion
per year, and additional carbon sink is estimated to be about 4.5 million tons in 10-year horizon.

Quad Climate Working Group (QCWG) Side Event on Localized Climate Action based on G20’s High-
Level Principle 7 on Lifestyles for Sustainable Development

• Organised by: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India
• Participating countries: India, Japan, Australia and United States of America
• Focused on recognizing and amplifying the role of local communities, local and regional Governments
in supporting sustainable lifestyles.
• Sessions were organised focusing on the role of individuals, local communities, local and regional
governments in combating climate change and also efforts by the National Governments to encourage
localized climate action.
• Publication on India’s climate action journey from COP-21 (2015) in Paris to COP-28 in UAE released
highlighting the rapid strides the country has made in a decade.

Quad Climate Working Group (QCWG) Side Event on Capturing the Resilience Dividend: Quad
Achievements under the Climate Adaptation Pillar

• Organised by: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India along with the Coalition
for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
• Participating countries: India, Japan, Australia and United States of America.
• The panel commended the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), supported by all Quad
partners, as an example of effective partnership amongst global stakeholders to advocate for resilience
and provide support to countries.

Launch of IREDA Retail Division

• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) launched its retail division, geared
towards enhancing emphasis on providing loans to borrowers in the PM-KUSUM scheme, Rooftop
Solar, and other Business-to-Consumer (B2C) sectors.
• The strategic division became operational on 5th December, 2023.
• Announced during the Leaders’ Dialogue on "Actioning Solutions for Global Sustainable Development
and Governance of Resources" organized by CEEW & CII as part of COP28.
• Shortly after opening, IREDA’s Retail division quickly sanctioned its first loan amounting to Rs. 58 crores
under KUSUM-B.

2.14 Pakistan elected as vice-chair of UNESCO Executive Board

Why in news?

• Pakistan beat India recently to secure the post of vice-chair of the United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) executive board.

32 | P a g e
 • While 38 members of the 58-member executive board voted for
Islamabad’s candidate, only 18 voted for New Delhi’s
representative, and 2 countries abstained.
• The election was held by secret ballot. QuickFact
• Election won by Pakistan was for vice-chairperson of Group IV, • India was elected to UNESCO
executive board in 2021 for four-
which includes Australia, Bangladesh, China, Cook Islands, India,
year term till 2025. Pakistan was
Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Sri Lanka and
elected in 2023 for a four-year
Vietnam.
term that will end in 2027.
• India is chair of Finance &
About UNESCO Executive Board Administration Commission of
UNESCO (2021-2023)-first time
• Along with 194-member General Conference and the Secretariat,
it’s held the post since 1966.
it is one of UNESCO's 3 constitutional organs.
• Membership and Tenure: 58 member states and 4-year term.
• It is elected by the General Conference.
• There are the following six electoral groups-
o Group I (Western European and North American States)
o Group II (Eastern European States)
o Group III (Latin-American and Caribbean States)
o Group IV (Asian and Pacific States)
o Group V (a) (African States)
o Group V (b) (Arab States)
• 58 Member States are elected according to this system of regional grouping whereby each region is
allocated a specific number of seats on the Board.
• Function:
o Acting under the authority of the General Conference it examines programme of work for the
Organization and corresponding budget estimates submitted to it.
o It administers the body and appoints its director-general.
o Its Chairperson is responsible for directing the discussions, ensuring the observance of Rules of
Procedure.
o There are six Vice-Chairpersons from each electoral group. In absence of Chairperson, their
functions are exercised in turn by Vice-Chairpersons.
o The vice-chairperson has no decision-making powers.
o The bureau of the executive board consists of 12 members — Chairperson, 6 Vice-chairpersons
and 5 Chairpersons of permanent commissions and committees.
o Bureau sets the agenda and allocates time for executive board meetings.

INDIAN POLITICAL SYSTEM

2.15 'Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth'

Why in news?

• Prime recently launched 'Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth' platform.

About Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth

33 | P a g e
 • Launch Year: 2023.
• Aim: to harness the innovative ideas and perspectives of the youth, positioning them as central
contributors to India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
• Features:
o A platform facilitating youth engagement in policy-making, reflecting the vision of national
development.
o Involves educational institutions in shaping personalities.
o Engagement through workshops and discussions with university leaders and faculty, fostering
a developmental mindset among students.
o Suggestions can be made on 5 different themes.
o Prizes are set for the best ideas.
✓ First Prize: Rs. 5 lakhs
✓ Second Prize: Rs. 3 lakhs
✓ Third Prize: Rs. 2 lakhs
o Suggestions can also be submitted through the MyGov platform.
o Additional prizes are arranged for the top 10 suggestions.
o Underscores the importance of individual participation in shaping the roadmap for 'Viksit
Bharat', reinforcing the collective effort mantra of 'Sabka Prayas'.
o Emphasis on the next 25 years as crucial for youth, positioning them as key drivers and
beneficiaries of change.
o Imbibes vision of creating an 'Amrit generation' committed to national interest and civic
responsibilities.

2.16 Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY)

Why in news?

• PM recently interacted with beneficiaries of VBSY via video conferencing.

• VBSY vans, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and Common Service Centres (CSCs) along with Union Ministers,
MPs, MLAs and local-level representatives joined the programme.

Key Highlights

• As per data captured on customized portal developed by MEITY, in less than month journey of VBSY
more than 1.25 crore people connected with ‘Modi ki Guarantee’ vehicle.
• Nearly 1 lakh new beneficiaries applied for free gas connections under Ujjwala scheme, more than 35
lakh Ayushman cards given on the spot, health checkup of people carried out and increased visits of
people to Ayushman Arogya temples.
• Drone demonstration showcased as part of ‘Drone Didi Scheme’ under which 15,000 Women’s Self Help
Groups will be provided with Drones, along with necessary training for two members of SHG.
• VBSY has reached monumental milestone, exceeding 2 crore participants in less than month. Mark of
first crore was touched in 22 days while next crore took merely 7 days.
• As part of Yatra's "Meri Kahani, Meri Zubani" initiative, over 1.30 Crore people shared their personal
narratives, showcasing citizens' diverse experiences and aspirations.
• In terms of participation, UP takes lead with nearly 80 Lakh participants, followed by Maharashtra with
over 29 Lakh participants and Gujarat with over 23 Lakh participants.
• More than 29,000 Gram Panchayats have achieved complete coverage, with 100% saturation of
Ayushman Cards; over 18,000 Gram Panchayats have reached 100% saturation for the 'Har Ghar
Jal' scheme; more than 34,000 Gram Panchayats have achieved full digitization of Land Records; and in
support of the Swachh Bharat initiative, over 9,000 Gram Panchayats meet criteria for 100% compliance
with the ODF Plus model.

34 | P a g e
Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
• Launch year: November 2023
• Objectives:
o To ensure benefits of flagships schemes reach targeted beneficiaries reaching the unreached
vulnerable sections who are eligible under various schemes
o Dissemination of information and generating awareness about schemes
o Learning from the citizens - interaction with beneficiaries of government schemes through
personal stories/experience sharing
o Enrolment of potential beneficiaries through details ascertained during Yatra
• Duration: from 15th November, 2023 till 26th January, 2024.
• Features:
o The Yatra started from Gram Panchayats of 68 districts with significant tribal population and
will cover all districts across the country.
o In tribal areas, 5 area of focus - Sickle Cell testing, awareness and enrolment in Eklavya Model
Residential Schools & Scholarship Schemes, livelihood of tribal communities through Forest
Right Titles and Van Dhan Vikas Kendra SHGs.
o Key focus area will be welfare schemes - sanitation facilities, essential financial services,
electricity connections, access to LPG cylinders, housing for the poor, food security, proper
nutrition, reliable healthcare, clean drinking water etc.
It is based on 4 Amrit pillars of ‘Viksit Bharat’- India’s Nari Shakti, Yuva Shakti, the farmers and
the poor families of India.

2.17 "Gram Manchitra" Geographic Information System (GIS) application

Why in news?

• Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj recently informed about the "Gram Manchitra" Geographic
Information System (GIS) application.

About the "Gram Manchitra" GIS application

• Launch year: October 2019

• Ministry Involved: Ministry of Panchayati Raj
• Aim:
o To facilitate spatial planning at the Gram Panchayat level.
o To enhance visualization and decision-making for developmental works.
• Features:
o “Gram Manchitra” (https://grammanchitra.gov.in) provides unified Geo Spatial platform for
better visualization of developmental projects.
o Geo-tagging of the assets is done in all 3 stages - before start of the work, during the work and
on completion of work.
o A mobile based solution “mActionSoft” helps in capturing photos with Geo-Tags (GPS
Coordinates) for the works which have asset as an output.
o Provide repository of information on all works and assets related to natural resource
management, water harvesting, drought proofing, sanitation, agriculture, check dams and
irrigation channels.
o Assets created under finance commission funds are geo-tagged with photos and visualized on
Gram Manchitra.
o Provides decision support system for Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).

35 | P a g e
 o Gram Manchitra provides several planning tools that use GIS technology to help Gram
Panchayat officials develop realistic and achievable development plans like tools for identifying
potential sites for development projects, asset tracking, estimating the costs of projects, and
assessing the impact of projects.

2.18 Project 'Arth Ganga'

Why in news?
QuickFact
• Minister of State for Jal Shakti recently informed about Arth Namami Gange Program launched in 2014.
Ganga Project. It aims at cleaning and rejuvenating the
Ganga. It is operated by the Department
About Arth Ganga Project of Water Resources, River Development
and Ganga Rejuvenation.
• Launch year: in 2019 during first National Ganga Council
meeting in Kanpur.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti
• Aim/Objective: To develop a sustainable economic model focusing on activities related to the Ganga by
integrating economic development with river rejuvenation.
• Features:
• Conceptualized as part of the broader Namami Gange Program.
• Added as a vertical of Namami Ganga Program, in addition to the 4 verticals – Nirmal Ganga,
Aviral Ganga, Jan Ganga and Gyan Ganga, existing till then.
• Involves 6 key verticals:
✓ Zero Budget Natural Farming: Chemical-free farming within a 10 km radius on either side
of the river, promoting cow dung as fertilizer through the Gobardhan scheme.
✓ Monetization and Reuse of Sludge & Wastewater: Reusing treated water for various
purposes, including irrigation and industrial use, and generating revenue for Urban Local
Bodies (ULBs).
✓ Livelihood Generation Opportunities: Creating haats for selling local products, medicinal
plants, and Ayurveda-related items.
✓ Public Participation: Enhancing synergies between stakeholders involved with the river.
✓ Cultural Heritage and Tourism Promotion: Encouraging boat tourism, adventure sports,
and yoga activities along the Ganga.
✓ Institutional Building: Empowering local administration for improved water governance.

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN INDIA

2.19 Open Network for Digital Commerce

Why in news?
• Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry informed about ONDC registration.
• ONDC currently has more than 2.3 Lakh sellers and service providers available on the network on
boarded through various seller network participants.
o 3000+ Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
o 400+ Self-Help Groups (SHGs), micro-entrepreneurs and social sector enterprises have
onboarded the network with the aid of SIDBI.

36 | P a g e
 o ONDC is actively working with the Ministry of MSME to onboard MSMEs to the network through
existing seller applications and also working to integrate MSME-Mart which has over 2 lakh
MSMEs, with ONDC.
o ONDC is also actively working National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) and Federation of
Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), to onboard restaurants to the network through
various food aggregators. Currently ONDC has more than 59,000 food and beverage (F&B) sellers
available on the network.

About Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

• It is a private non-profit Section 8 company established by the Department for Promotion of Industry
and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on 31 December 2022.
• Aim: to develop open e-commerce.
• Initial investment from Quality Council of India and Protean eGov Technologies Limited (formerly NSDL
e-Governance Infrastructure Limited).
• Features:
o Not a platform but a network that enables products and services to be transacted.
o Being a Network, ONDC does not directly onboard any sellers.
o It enables both products and services to be transacted through the network.
o It doesn’t have a central system that monitors all transactions.
o It conducts awareness workshops in collaboration with various industry associations like RAI,
PHDCCI, FICCI, NASSCOM and FHRAI.
o It works actively with various departments of State sand UTs. Each state/ UT has appointed a
Nodal Officer to accelerate the state level engagements with ONDC.
o It has launched a ‘Feet on Street program’ to support the Network Participants (NPs) in
identifying and educating sellers about the benefits of ONDC.
o It has launched ONDC Academy which is a repository of educational and informative textual
and video content.

2.20 'Build for Bharat' initiative

Why in news?

• The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has recently launched the 'Build for Bharat' initiative.

About 'Build for Bharat'

• Launched by: Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

• Collaboration with: Google Cloud India, Antler in India, Paytm, Protean, and Startup India.
• Aim: to address challenges in digital commerce space and promote industry innovation.
• Features:
• Focuses on leveraging India's technological and entrepreneurial potential, with over 200K
participants expected from startups, companies, and colleges.
• Develops practical solutions in digital commerce, fostering venture creation, and addressing
network friction points.
• It emphasizes participatory and ecosystem-driven approach, organized nationally across 50+
cities.
• It covers sectors like retail, mobility, F&B, financial services, and logistics.

37 | P a g e
 • Aiming to deliver outcomes in three categories:
✓ Category 1 - 'NextGen Ventures': Encourages venture creation, targeting aspiring
founders and early-stage teams.
✓ Category 2 - Scalable Solutions: Invites organizations and individuals, including students,
to solve network friction points.
✓ Category 3 - Foundation Solutions: Tailored for college students to develop proof of
concept for network friction points.
• Winners in each category will receive benefits like grants, investments, and recognition.

2.21 Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors

Why in news?

• Minister of Railways recently announced that construction of Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC)
has been fully completed and 1176 KM out of 1506 KM of Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC)
has been completed.

About Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC):

• DFC is a specialized high-speed and high-capacity railway corridor designed exclusively for freight
transportation, emphasizing the movement of goods and commodities.
• The construction of DFC will reduce the logistic cost, leading to development of new industrial hubs and
Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals.
• Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC):
o 1,337 km in length from Sahnewal (Ludhiana) in Punjab to Dankuni in West Bengal.
o Encompasses coal mines, thermal power plants, and industrial cities along route.
o Passes through Punjab, Haryana, UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
o Major funding for EDFC is provided by the World Bank.
o 'New Bhaupur-New Khurja section' spanning 351 km aims to decongest Kanpur-Delhi main line
and increase freight train speeds from 25 kmph to 75 kmph.
• Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC):
o WDFC spans 1,506 km from Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) in
Mumbai, connecting major ports.
o Covers Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.
o Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
• Connecting Link for Eastern and Western Arm:
• A connecting link is under construction between Dadri and Khurja.
• Development of industrial corridors, such as Delhi-Mumbai and Amritsar-Kolkata, is ongoing
around both EDFC and WDFC.

2.22 MSME sector in India

Why in news?

• Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment recently informed about contribution of MSME
Sector in India.

38 | P a g e
Key Highlights

• MSME Gross Value Added (GVA) in all India GDP:-

2019-20: 30.48%, 2020-21: 27.24%, 2021-22: 29.15%
• MSME manufacturing GVA in all India Manufacturing QuickFact
GVA: 2019-20: 40.67%, 2020-21: 40.30%, 2021-22: • Udyam Portal launched on July 1, 2020 by
40.83% Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium
• Share of Export of MSME Specified Products in All Enterprises as new registration process
India Exports: 2019-20: 49.77%, 2020-21: 49.35%, introduced for small and micro-enterprises to
2021-22: 45.03%, 2022-23: 43.59%, 2023-24 avail various benefits and schemes.
• Launch of Udyam Assist Platform launched on
(September 2023): 45.56%
January 11, 2023 to formalize informal micro
• Udyam Portal Registration figures (Including informal
enterprises for Priority Sector Lending.
micro enterprises):
o Total of 3.16 crore MSME registrations.
o Total employment registrations recorded 15.50 crore.
o Total of 1.17 Crore registrations for women-owned MSMEs.
• Top 3 States with Highest MSME Registrations: Maharashtra: 4.5 Crore, Uttar Pradesh: 3.5 Crore and
Tamil Nadu: 2.7 Crore
• West Bengal leads with 1,813,630 women-owned MSME registrations.
• Steps for Resolution of Pending Payments:
o MSEFCs (Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Councils) set up in States/UTs to address
delayed payment cases.
o States/UTs requested to establish more MSEFCs; 157 MSEFCs set up so far.
o Samadhaan Portal for filing grievances and monitoring outstanding dues to MSEs.
o Creation of a sub-portal within Samadhaan Portal for reporting dues and monthly payments by
Central Ministries/Departments/Public Sector Enterprises to MSMEs.
o Instruction to CPSEs and companies with a turnover of Rs. 500 crore or more to onboard on the
Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) for discounting trade receivables of MSMEs.
o Mandatory half-yearly return submission by companies with payments exceeding 45 days to
the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
o Deduction allowed under Income Tax Act only when payment is actually made to MSMEs.
• The Expert Committee on MSME, constituted by RBI in December, 2018 has estimated the overall credit
gap in the MSME sector to be in the range of Rs. 20 to Rs. 25 trillion.
• Measures to ensure financial accessibility and seamless credit to MSMEs include:
o Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) which is a major credit-linked
subsidy programme aimed at generating self-employment.
o Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY) for providing loans up to Rs. 10 lakh, to non-corporate,
non-farm micro/small enterprises.
o Credit without the hassles of collateral and third party guarantee, up to a maximum of Rs. 5
crore through Credit Guarantee Scheme.
o Rs. 50,000 crore equity infusion through Self Reliant India (SRI) Fund.
o Launch of Udyam Assist Platform to bring Informal Micro Enterprises (IMEs) under the formal
ambit of MSME for availing the benefits under Priority Sector Lending
o Inclusion of Retail and Wholesale traders as MSMEs for the purpose of availing Priority Sector
Lending benefits
o Non-tax benefits extended for 3 years in case upward change in status of MSMEs

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 o Trade Receivable Discounting System (TReDS) to facilitate the financing of trade receivables of
MSMEs from corporate and other buyers.
o Rs. 5 lakh crore Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) during COVID-19 pandemic
to fulfil the credit gap in MSMEs. It was in operation till 31.03.2023.

2.23 Urban Infrastructure Development Fund

Why in news?

• Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs informed about

Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF)
•
Rural Infrastructure
Development Fund (RIDF)
About Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF)
was set up in 1995-96 for
• Launch year: in 2023 financing ongoing rural
• Aim: to provide a stable and predictable source of financing to Infrastructure projects.
supplement the efforts of state governments and urban local bodies • It is maintained by the
in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities for urban infrastructure development. National Bank for Agriculture
• Managed by: National Housing Bank (NHB) through their regional and Rural Development
offices. (NABARD).
• Domestic commercial banks
• Implemented by: Finance Department of States/ UTs.
contribute to the Fund to the
• Features:
extent of their shortfall in
o Focuses on urban infrastructure development works stipulated priority sector
implemented through Public/State Agencies, Municipal Corporationslending
and Urban Local Bodies.
to agriculture.
o Eligible Activities for availing loans under the UIDF are aligned with the Missions and
programmes of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
o Focuses on basic services like sewerage and Solid Waste Management, water supply and
sanitation, construction and improvement of drains/storm water drains.
o Not to be utilized for any type of maintenance works or for administrative expenses.
o Housing, power and telecom, rolling stock like buses and trams, urban transport, health and
education institutions would remain out of the purview of UIDF.
o The minimum size of a project is Rs. 5 crores (Rs. 1 crore for North-East & Hilly States) and the
maximum size is Rs. 100 crore.
o There is no indication that domestic commercial banks contribute to the UIDF to fulfill their
shortfall in priority sector lending to agriculture.
o Fund Contribution:
✓ States to leverage resources from grants of the 15th Finance Commission, as well as
existing schemes, and to adopt appropriate user charges while accessing the UIDF.
✓ Allocation of first tranche of ₹ 10,000 crore under UIDF for 2023-24 has been advised by
NHB to States and UTs inviting project proposals.
✓ Allocation based on the urban population percentage in respective States/ UTs in eligible
towns/cities out of total population in eligible town/cities in the country.

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3. GA + FINANCE

FINTECH
3.1 NPCI Bharat BillPay onboards SBI Card under Credit Card Category

Why in news?

o NPCI Bharat BillPay Ltd. (NBBL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India
(NPCI), has recently partnered with SBI Card.
o SBI Card joins major credit card issuers like Kotak Mahindra Bank, BoB Financial, Federal Bank,
AU Small Finance Bank, IndusInd Bank, and Canara Bank under the credit card category of
Bharat BillPay.

About Partnership between SBI Card and NPCI Bharat BillPay

• Objective:
o Simplify the management of credit card bill payments for SBI Card customers.
o Enhance convenience, accessibility, and facilitate seamless transactions for credit card bill
payments.
• Key Features:
o The collaboration falls under the credit card category of Bharat BillPay.
o Customers can manage credit card bill payments efficiently across all Bharat BillPay supported
payment channels.
o Accessible online through bank or payment apps or via the network of Bharat BillPay-enabled
physical outlets.
o Consumers can leverage the comprehensive range of payment modes offered by Bharat BillPay,
ensuring flexibility and ease of use.
o The settlement system of Bharat BillPay provides an added layer of assurance, ensuring hassle-
free and secure transactions for users.
• Significance: Will revolutionize the way customers manage credit card bill payments, offering a seamless,
secure, and convenient experience across various payment channels.
• NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India):
o Incorporated in 2008, to operate retail payments and settlement systems.
o Facilitates secure payment solutions, including RuPay card, IMPS, UPI, BHIM, BHIM Aadhaar,
NETC, and Bharat BillPay.
• NPCI Bharat BillPay Ltd. (NBBL):
o A wholly-owned subsidiary of NPCI, incorporated in December 2020.
o Responsible for driving RBI-conceptualized Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS).
o It is an ecosystem for payment of all bills, offering interoperable and accessible bill payment
services with certainty, reliability, and transaction safety.
• About SBI Card:

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 o Launched in 1998 by State Bank of India & GE Capital. Headquartered in Gurgaon (Gurugram),
incorporated as SBI Card Payment Services Private Limited (SBICPSL)
o In December 2017, SBI and Carlyle Group acquired GE Capital’s stake in SBI Card. Changed its
name to SBI Cards and Payments Services Limited in August 2019.
o March 2020, it became the first pure play credit card company to list on the stock exchanges in
India. Now it is the second largest credit card provider in country.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN FINANCIAL SECTOR

3.2 Digital Payment Transactions in India

Why in news?

• The Union Minister of State for Finance recently highlighted the significant increase in digital payments
in recent years, emphasizing government's coordinated efforts.

Key Highlights

• Total digital payment transactions grew from 2,071 crore in FY 2017-18 to 13,462 crore in FY 2022-23 at
a CAGR of 45%.
• In FY 2023-24 (till 27th Nov’23), digital payments crossed 10,998 crore.
• In FY 2020-21, the target for digital payment transactions was 5,500 crore, and the achievement
surpassed the target, reaching 5,554 crore, with a transaction value of ₹3,000 lakh crore.
• FY 2021-22 set a target of 6,000 crore transactions, and the actual achievement exceeded expectations
at 8,839 crore, with a transaction value of ₹3,021 lakh crore.
• FY 2022-23 aimed for 13,233 crore transactions, and the goal was met with 13,462 crore transactions,
valued at ₹3,355 lakh crore.
• For FY 2023-24 (till 27th Nov’23), target rose to 18,000 crore transactions and achieved transactions
reached 10,998 crore, with a value of ₹2,290 lakh crore.
• Initiatives by the government to promote digital transactions include-
o Incentive schemes for RuPay Debit cards and BHIM-UPI transactions.
o Advisory role of the Government in improving payment infrastructure.
o Allocation and monitoring of digital payment targets to banks.
o Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan (PMGDISHA) for rural digital literacy.
o Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures (CPMI) of the Bank for International
Settlements (BIS) categorizes India as a leader in payments.
o Benchmarking exercise by RBI for year 2022 - India’s progress in Payments Ecosystem with India
categorized as leader or strong in respect of 25 out of 40 indicators.

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 Quick Revision
• Ayushman Bhav Campaign: Launched in September 2023 with objective of healthcare service saturation.
It is implemented by National Health Authority (NHA). It has 3 components - Ayushman-Apke Dwar 3.0,
Ayushman Melas and Ayushman Sabhas.
• Government has achieved the target of 10% average blending of ethanol in Petrol under Ethanol Blended
Petrol (EBP) Programme in June, 2022 (5 months ahead of the target of November, 2022.) Now set target
of 20% blending of ethanol under EBP programme by Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26.
• The "4E Wave" movement is initiative for energy conservation by students of Government College of Engineering
and Technology (GCET), Jammu.
• “HaritSagar” Green Port Guidelines by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways launched in 2023 to
reduce carbon intensity and to develop an environment-friendly ecosystem at all Major Ports.
• One croreth Unique Disability ID (UDID) card: since 2017 to provide a unique identity to Divyangjan and
create a comprehensive database for strategic welfare planning.
• Social Inclusion of Transgender community:
o 'National Portal for Transgender Persons’ facilitates digital application for a Certificate and
Identity card for transgender individuals across India.
o Garima Greh Shelter Home provides shelter and support services to transgender persons.
• “Gram Manchitra" GIS application launched by Ministry of Panchayati Raj in October 2019 to facilitate
spatial planning at the Gram Panchayat level. Geo-tagging of the assets is done in all 3 stages - before,
during and on completion of work. Mobile based solution “mActionSoft” helps in capturing photos with
Geo-Tags.
• Pro Bono Legal Services Programme launched in 2017, implemented by the Department of Justice to
enhance "access to justice" and “free legal aid” for marginalized sections of the society.
• Indigenous IQ Testing Tool is developed by the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with
Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), Secunderabad to assess the cognitive abilities of individuals with
disabilities.
• PM inaugurated Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit at New Delhi. Under theme
“Advancing Responsible AI in Public-Sector Applications. Alliance launched in 2020 is now includes 28
Member Countries + EU.
• 2nd edition of Infinity Forum: by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) and GIFT
City. 1st edition held in 2021. To promote India as a leader in FinTech and discuss the role of GIFT-IFSC
as a global financial services hub.
• India selected as pioneer lead country for IMO Green Voyage2050 Project which was launched in May
2019 jointly by Government of Norway and IMO to transform shipping industry & lower carbon future.
• COP-28 to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Dubai,
United Arab Emirates.
o Loss and Damage Fund operationalized: aimed at compensating countries grappling with climate
change impacts.
o Establishment of UAE climate Investment Fund ‘ALTÉRRA’: US$30 billion commitment to fund.
Aims to mobilise US$250 billion globally by 2030.
o Phase-II of Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT 2.0) co- launched by India and
Sweden for the period 2024-26.
o Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA) by India’s National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) with over
275 river-cities across 11 countries, international funding agencies and knowledge partners to
advance sustainable river management.

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• Pakistan beat India recently to secure the post of vice-chair of (UNESCO) executive board. It has 58
member and tenure is of 4-year. Along with General Conference and the Secretariat, it is one of
UNESCO's 3 constitutional organs.
• 'Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth' platform: to harness the innovative ideas and perspectives of the
youth. Suggestions can be made on 5 different themes through the MyGov platform. Prizes are of Rs. 5
lakhs, Rs. 3 lakhs and Rs. 2 lakh.
• Project “Arth Ganga” launched in 2019 to develop a sustainable economic model focusing on activities
related to the Ganga by integrating economic development with river rejuvenation. Part of the broader
Namami Gange Program.
• ONDC, a company established by the DPIIT to develop open e-commerce, currently has more than 2.3
Lakh sellers and service providers available on the network.
• 'Build for Bharat’ initiative is launched by ONDC in collaboration with Google Cloud India, Antler in
India, Paytm, Protean, and Startup India. It will address challenges in digital commerce space and
promote industry innovation.
• Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC) of 1,337 km from Sahnewal (Ludhiana) in Punjab to Dankuni
in West Bengal has been fully completed and 1176 KM out of 1506 KM of Western Dedicated Freight
Corridor (WDFC) from Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) in Mumbai has been
completed.
• Urban Infrastructure Development Fund launched in 2023 to provide financing to supplement the efforts
of state governments and urban local bodies in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. It is managed by the National
Housing Bank (NHB) through their regional offices.
• NPCI Bharat BillPay Ltd. (NBBL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has
recently partnered with SBI Card. It will simplify the management of credit card bill payments for SBI
Card customers.
• Total digital payment transactions grew from 2,071 crore in FY 2017-18 to 13,462 crore in FY 2022-23 at
a CAGR of 45%. FY 2022-23 aimed for 13,233 crore transactions, and the goal was met with 13,462 crore
transactions, valued at ₹3,355 lakh crore.

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