The Ministry of Science and Technology recently unveiled a novel program designed to offer financial assistance for repairing, upgrading, and maintaining vital pieces of equipment used in scientific research. The initiative, known as the Support for Up-gradation Preventive Repair and Maintenance of Equipment (SUPREME), represents a landmark effort in easing the burden faced by many research institutions throughout the nation.
SUPREME Initiative: An Overview
Marking its first inception in the country, SUPREME aims at providing financial assistance for repair, upgrades, maintenance, retrofitting, or acquiring additional attachments to increase the functional capabilities of existing Analytical Instrumentation Facilities (AIFs). AIFs are complex facilities that provide sophisticated analytical instruments to scientists and other users from academic institutes, R&D laboratories, and industries to facilitate measurements essential for their R&D work. Therefore, any institutions recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) can apply for these grants.
Makkalai Thedi Mayor: A New Civic Initiative
In an unswerving commitment towards addressing civic issues in an efficient manner, Chennai’s Mayor announced the start of ‘Makkalai Thedi Mayor’. This scheme is being brought into effect to look into concerns relating to roads, stormwater drains, streetlights, toilets, birth and death certificates, property tax, professional tax, garbage clearance, removal of encroachments, parks, and playgrounds. The mayor will visit each zone every 15 days, receiving petitions from residents and assuring streamlined attention to urban management.
Highlight from Y20 Pre-Summit Inaugural Session
The inaugural session of the Y20 Pre-Summit was recently convened in Leh and saw the Lieutenant Governor of Leh-Ladakh officiating the event. Discussions ranged from numerous contemporary topics, including health and well-being, climate change and disaster risk reduction, and youth’s role in democracy and governance. The meeting underscored the importance of youth-led resilient recovery, and participants were not confined to India alone, but featured young leaders from G20 countries.
Focus on Ladakh Culture and Y20 Summit Details
Besides the intellectual discourse, the session also offered a glimpse of the rich culture, traditions, and scenic beauty of Ladakh. Handicrafts and handlooms, crafted by Self Help Groups (SHGs) composed of Ladakhi women, exhibited the region’s unique horticulture heritage and craftsmanship, especially its pashmina wool, wood carving, and apricots.
Y20, an official youth engagement group for G20, brings together young leaders worldwide to discuss and recommend policy solutions to global challenges. For the first time in history, India will play host to the Y20 summit, focusing on fostering global youth leadership and partnership. As part of the summit, there will be several pre-summits and discussions held in universities throughout the nation.