INS Tarangini Returns After ‘Lokayan 18’ Voyage
The first sail training ship of the Indian Navy, INS Tarangini, has recently returned to its naval base in Kochi. This return marks the successful completion of a seven-month long journey named “Lokayan 18”. Over the course of this voyage, INS Tarangini demonstrated the colorful diversity of India’s culture across 15 different ports in 13 different countries around the globe.
Commissioned on November 11, 1997, INS Tarangini holds the distinction of being the First Sail Training Ship in the Indian Navy. Its primary role is to instill character and professionalism in Sea Trainees. The ship also serves to teach these trainees practical skills, such as navigation, sailing, and seamanship.
Banni’s Bane: Severe Drought Nightmares in Great Rann of Kutch
Deemed the largest grassland in Asia, Banni is facing a severe drought. Located near the Great Rann of Kutch, this area is famously known for its scarce rainfall and semi-drought conditions. For the first time in 13 years, the severe water scarcity has forced the Maldharis, nomadic natives of Banni, to abandon their villages.
Banni Grasslands, separated from the India-Pakistan International Border by the National Highway 341, is also home to a bird sanctuary at Chari-Dhand. This sanctuary is currently facing an acute water shortage, threatening its flamingo population and other migratory birds.
Thanjavur Paintings: A Vibrant Testament to South India’s Artistic Heritage
Often found in South Indian homes, Thanjavur paintings are renowned for their beauty but are rarely understood. This religious art genre encompasses two main themes: depictions from epics and Puranas, and images of deities. These artworks also include portraits of kings, priests, and common individuals.
Thanjavur artists follow the techniques from the 17th and 18th-century murals of the Nayak era in Tamil Nadu. As such, their works feature simple layouts, imposing figures, clear outlines, and a vibrant palette.
| Traditional Colours Used | Source |
|---|---|
| Rred ochre, yellow ochre, chrome yellow, indigo | Vegetal and mineral origin |
| Factory-made pigments | Europe, from late 19th century |
Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC)
The Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) recently held its nineteenth meeting under the chairmanship of the Union Minister of Finance. In addition to reviewing the current global and domestic economic situations and financial sector performance, this meeting served to strengthen and institutionalize the mechanism for maintaining financial stability.
Established in 2010, the FSDC aims to enhance inter-regulatory coordination and promote financial sector development. Its chairman is the Finance Minister of India, and its members comprise the heads of major financial sector regulatory authorities, including the SEBI, IRDA, RBI, PFRDA, and FMC. The Finance Secretary, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (Ministry of Finance), Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (Ministry of Finance), and the Chief Economic Adviser also form part of the council.