The Supreme Court has urged the central government to develop a national model for the calculation of girls’ toilets according to female population. It should be applicable across all government-aided and residential schools in India. Also, the court has recommended developing an “optimum” menstrual hygiene policy. The primary point of focus is the distribution strategy of sanitary napkins.
Some States have already initiated their own methods for sanitary napkin distribution. In Tamil Nadu, for instance, girls receive 18 packets containing six napkins each. Northeastern States, too, have developed their own progressive schemes. According to the National Family Health Survey 5 (NFHS-5), there has been considerable improvement in the use of hygienic menstrual protection among women aged 15-24. The percentage rose from 58% (as per NFHS-4) to 78%.
Underutilization of Semiconductor Manufacturing Funds
As reported by an official from the Industry Ministry, around USD 8 billion of the USD 10 billion fund allocated for semiconductor production remains unclaimed. This fund falls under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme launched by the Union government in 2021. The scheme’s main objective lies in promoting semiconductor and display manufacturing within the nation.
The PLI initiative was introduced with the dual aim of boosting domestic manufacturing and reducing import dependence. It offers financial incentives to those companies that manufacture products on Indian soil. The scheme encompasses 14 crucial sectors.
Aadhaar Authentication for Enhanced Prison Security
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has proposed a new initiative based on Aadhaar authentication for inmates and visitors in approximately 1,300 jails throughout the country. This measure involves integrating Aadhaar with the ePrisons system, which was developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC). The aim is to precisely verify the identities of inmates and visitors, minimizing identity fraud within the prison system and streamlining administrative processes related to prisoner management. As per MHA’s notification, this authentication process will be voluntary. The responsibility lies with the States and Union Territories to abide by relevant guidelines.
Celebrating Uttarakhand State Foundation Day
On 9th November every year, the Foundation Day of the state of Uttarakhand is celebrated. Uttarakhand became India’s 27th state on November 9, 2000, when it was separated from northern Uttar Pradesh. Initially named Uttaranchal, it was renamed as Uttarakhand in 2007. The Sanskrit-derived name of Uttarakhand translates to “northern city”.
Uttarakhand is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and religious significance. The Char Dham – four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri – are located here. Additionally, Uttarakhand houses two UNESCO Heritage sites: the Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi National Park.
Last Modified: February 22, 2024