The Prime Minister of India recently honored Babu Jagjivan Ram, a revered freedom fighter and leader in social justice, on his birth anniversary. Jagjivan Ram, known widely as Babuji, was born on April 5, 1908, into a Dalit family in Chandwa, Bihar, and went on to become an influential political figure and advocate for the oppressed classes.
Babu Jagjivan Ram: A Torchbearer of Equality
Babuji’s journey in politics began in 1931 when he became a member of the Indian National Congress (INC). He gained nationwide recognition in 1935 when he proposed that untouchables be allowed access to drinking water wells and temples during a Hindu Mahasabha session. That same year, he made history by appearing before the Hammond Commission at Ranchi to demand voting rights for Dalits, marking the first instance someone advocated such a cause.
Jagjivan Ram went on to become the youngest minister in the provisional government formed by Jawaharlal Nehru. His contributions to Indian society were not forgotten even post-death; his cremation site is now a memorial named Samta Sthal (Place of Equality). Babuji passed away on July 6, 1986, in New Delhi.
Launch of Sagar Setu App
The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways recently launched the app version of the National Logistics Portal (Marine) – ‘Sagar-Setu’. This application is aimed at bolstering data mobility and ensuring that port and ministry officials have approvals and monitoring capacities at their fingertips.
The National Logistics Portal (Marine) serves as a comprehensive maritime single window platform. It provides end-to-end logistics solutions that allow exporters, importers, and service providers to transact business and exchange documents seamlessly.
Glorious Achievement for Kathua’s ‘Basohli Painting’
The world-famous ‘Basohli Painting’ from Kathua district, Jammu & Kashmir, has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant achievement in the region’s art and culture. This unique form of miniature art has earned Kathua its first GI tag for handicrafts.
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) initiated the GI-tagging process in collaboration with the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom (J&K) in December 2020. The products from J&K have been added to the list of 33 items that recently received the GI tag.
India’s Elected Position on UN Statistical Commission
In a competitive election, India has been elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission for a four-year term commencing on January 1, 2024. The Commission operates under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is the highest decision-making body for international statistical activities.
Established in 1947, the UN Statistical Commission comprises of Chief Statisticians from member states globally. Along with developing statistical standards and methodologies, the Commission also oversees their implementation at national and international levels.
India’s election to the ECOSOC, one of the six main organs of the United Nations, for the 2022-24 term marks another significant stride in India’s global involvement.