Phase-Out of Ozone Depleting Chemicals by India
- India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has successfully phased out the use of Hydro Chloro Fluoro Carbons (HCFC), particularly HCFC-141b.
- This accomplishment aligns with the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement aimed at ozone layer protection.
- The phase-out, achieved ahead of the 2023 target, was facilitated by banning HCFC-141b imports and ending its use in foam manufacturing industries.
- This initiative significantly contributes to ozone layer recovery and climate change mitigation, as HCFC-141b is a major ozone-depleting substance and a potent greenhouse gas.
“Vyom Mitra”-ISRO’s Half Humanoid for Gaganyaan Mission
- The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) introduced “Vyom Mitra,” a half-humanoid robot, as part of its Gaganyaan mission. Designed to simulate human functions, Vyom Mitra can speak Hindi and English, respond to queries, and handle switch panel operations.
- The robot is set to participate in two unmanned missions, demonstrating ISRO’s commitment to advancing its human space flight program.
- This initiative marks a significant milestone in India’s space exploration efforts.
National Conclave on Natural Gas Sector
- India’s National Conclave on Emerging Opportunities in the Natural Gas Sector, held in New Delhi, emphasized increasing the share of gas in India’s energy mix from 6.2% to 15% by 2030.
- The conclave highlighted plans for extensive pipeline network expansion, supported by government funding, to enhance gas availability across India.
- This initiative aims to boost the country’s energy security and transition towards cleaner energy sources.
32nd Edition of PRAGATI Interaction
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 32nd PRAGATI session, focusing on proactive governance and timely implementation of projects.
- The session reviewed various delayed projects, highlighting the government’s commitment to effective project management and implementation.
- This platform demonstrates a significant effort in enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
De-recognition of Rowing Federation of India
- The Union Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs de-recognized the Rowing Federation of India due to violations in election processes, emphasizing adherence to the National Sports Development Code.
- This move underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and fairness in sports administration.
HCFC-141b Import Licence Prohibition
- India’s ban on HCFC-141b import licenses, effective from January 2020, marks a crucial step in environmental conservation.
- This action not only aligns with the Montreal Protocol but also signals India’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental protection.
Maharashtra Wins Khelo India Youth Games
- Maharashtra’s remarkable achievement in the 3rd Edition of Khelo India Youth Games, securing the overall trophy, highlights the state’s sports prowess and the effectiveness of initiatives promoting sports at the grassroots level in India.
India’s Improvement in Global Talent Competitiveness Index
- India’s rise in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index to 72nd position reflects its efforts in enhancing competitiveness and nurturing talent.
- This improvement signals progress in creating an environment conducive to talent development and innovation.
India’s Ranking in the Democracy Index:
- India’s position in the Democracy Index, though declined, still categorizes it as a “flawed democracy.”
- This status calls for attention to enhancing civil liberties and strengthening democratic institutions in the country.
National Girl Child Day (NGCD):
- Celebrated on January 24, NGCD in India aims to raise awareness about the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and improve the societal value of the girl child.
- Launched in 2008, it also marks the anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme.
- The day focuses on eliminating gender discrimination, ensuring human rights for girls, and promoting opportunities for girls in society.
- The BBBP scheme, a tri-ministerial effort launched in 2015, addresses the declining CSR and empowers women throughout their life-cycle.
Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal Dispute:
- The SYL Canal, proposed to link the Sutlej and Yamuna rivers, has been a point of contention between Punjab and Haryana. Originating from the 1966 division of Punjab, the dispute intensified with differing views on water-sharing.
- While Punjab claims insufficient water for sharing, Haryana seeks completion of the canal for its allotted water share.
- The Supreme Court’s involvement and various tribunal recommendations have yet to resolve this long-standing inter-state dispute.
Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus:
- The resurgence of polio in various countries, including India, has been linked to vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV).
- This strain originates from the oral polio vaccine (OPV) and can mutate to resemble the wild poliovirus, posing risks to unvaccinated individuals.
- The spread is primarily due to low vaccination coverage. India, declared polio-free in 2014, continues to implement vaccination and monitoring strategies to prevent both wild and vaccine-derived polio infections.
Shamlat Land in Punjab:
- Shamlat land, common village land in Punjab, has recently been a subject of controversy due to a policy amendment allowing its sale for industrial purposes.
- This move, aimed at village development and economic progress, has raised concerns about the impact on Dalits who rely on this land for livelihood.
- The decision sparked fears of unemployment and loss of agricultural land, leading to widespread protests.
NISHTHA – National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement
- NISHTHA is the world’s largest training program for teachers, launched to improve learning outcomes at the elementary level.
- It aims to equip teachers with skills to foster critical thinking in students.
- This comprehensive program includes modules on various educational aspects, emphasizing the holistic advancement of educators and school heads across India.
US ‘Birth Tourism’ Visa Rules:
- The US Department of State implemented new rules to combat ‘birth tourism’ – a practice where pregnant women travel to the US to give birth, thus securing US citizenship for their child.
- These rules restrict B visa issuance for such purposes, aiming to safeguard national security and public health. The policy reflects growing concerns about the misuse of visitor visas for automatic citizenship acquisition.
Archaea in Sambhar Salt Lake:
- Scientists discovered a new archaeon, Natrialba swarupiae, in Rajasthan’s Sambhar Salt Lake. Archaea, a group of microorganisms thriving in extreme environments, have significant potential in antimicrobial production and environmental applications.
- This discovery contributes to understanding microbial diversity and its potential benefits.
Hemorrhagic Septicemia in Odisha:
- Hemorrhagic septicemia, a severe bacterial disease, has caused the death of numerous buffaloes in Odisha’s Kendrapara district.
- This contagious disease, characterized by various symptoms including reduced milk yield, poses a significant threat to livestock health and the local economy.
Sagarmatha Sambaad:
- Sagarmatha Sambaad, a significant diplomatic initiative in Nepal, is a multi-stakeholder dialogue event focusing on global issues.
- Scheduled to include leaders from SAARC countries and other global figures, this event represents a major step in regional and international diplomacy for Nepal.