International News |
Japanese PM Kishida Fumio’s India visit Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio paid an official visit to India on March 20 and March 21. He pressed Upon the importance of Free and Open Indo – Pacific (FOIP) and regarded India as an ‘indispensable’ partner in the same in his lecture at Sapru House. He invited PM Modi, His Indian counterpart to attend the G7 summit in May. Japan holds the presidency of G7 while India holds that of the G20 this year. Japan and India are developing Mumbai Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail with 300 billion yen assistance from Japan with Japanese technology. Memorandum of Cooperation for Japanese Language Education in India.
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The friendship hall of fame is officially opened by PM Modi and his Australian colleague Anthony Albanese in Ahmedabad. The Friendship Hall of Fame, located at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Antony Albanese. Antony Albanese is currently on an official visit to India from March 8 to 11. The Australian Prime Minister and Narendra Modi have held four meetings since May 2022, showcasing the strong bond between the two nations. During this visit, Antony Albanese unveiled the finalization of the Australia-India Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism. Furthermore, he made two significant announcements. The first was the establishment of the ‘Maitri’ scholarship, aimed at promoting educational exchange between Australia and India. The second announcement pertained to the creation of an international campus by Deakin University from Australia at GIFT City in Gandhinagar.
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G20 Meetings India holds the presidency of G20. Trade and Investment Working group meeting held at Mumbai. Disaster Risk Reduction WGM held at Gandhinagar. Infrastructure working group meeting held at Visakhapatnam. This was the second such meeting. The theme is Financing Cities of tomorrow – Inclusive, Resilient and Sustainable. First Infrastructure working group meeting was held in Pune. Civil C20 inception meeting hosted by Orange City Nagpur G20 Flower Festival inaugurated at Connaught Place by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandviya virtually addressed the Global Conference on Digital Health – Taking universal health coverage to the last citizen. WHO – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare collaboration. Anti Corruption Working Group meeting held in Gurugram, Haryana. First ACWG meeting. Chaired by G20 host country, India. Co-chair – Italy.
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National News |
Centre opposes Same-Sex Marriage Centre filed an affidavit in the Apex court on March 12, opposing same-sex marriages. Centre stated that the idea of family in Indian society involves a biological man and a biological woman. This was in reference to petitions filed by two same-sex couples in November 2022 seeking legal recognition for same-sex marriages under various Acts. The Supreme Court has decriminalized same-sex relationships back in 2018 in a historic judgment by abolishing section 377 of IPC. Without legal recognition, Same Sex couples bear legal hurdles in adopting as a couple and other problems which married couples do not.
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New India Literacy Programme Recognizing the crucial role of education in societal progress, India has acknowledged the importance of improving literacy rates for economic and social development. To tackle adult illiteracy in the country, the Indian Government has introduced the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), a new initiative that aims to empower non-literates and foster self-sufficiency. Let’s delve into the scheme and its key components. With a total budget of Rs. 1037.90 crore for a five-year implementation period, NILP comprises a Central share of Rs. 700.00 crore and a State share of Rs. 337.90 crore. The scheme targets the education of approximately 5 crore non-literates aged 15 years and above. NILP encompasses five essential components: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical Life Skills, Vocational Skills Development, Basic Education, and Continuing Education. Foundational Literacy and Numeracy focus on imparting the fundamentals of reading, writing, and numeracy. Critical Life Skills component emphasizes functional literacy, including digital literacy and financial literacy. Vocational Skills Development provides job-oriented skills training to beneficiaries. Basic Education ensures access to primary education for adults who have missed out on formal schooling. Lastly, Continuing Education offers educational opportunities for those who have completed the basic education component. To identify beneficiaries, door-to-door surveys are conducted using a mobile app in various States/Union Territories. The NILP scheme is primarily implemented online, ensuring accessibility for beneficiaries across the country. NILP operates as a volunteer-driven scheme, aiming to mobilize volunteers nationwide to teach non-literates. The scheme intends to train 10 lakh teachers to educate one crore adults, further emphasizing the importance of volunteer participation in achieving its objectives.
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With electrification, Indian Railways accomplished an important milestone. Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in its railway electrification efforts. The completion of the electrification of the Subhagpur-Pachperwa BG route in Uttar Pradesh marks the successful electrification of all broad gauge (BG) routes in the state. The electrification of the Subhagpur-Pachperwa BG route, which falls under the North Eastern Railway, signifies the accomplishment of electrifying all BG routes in Uttar Pradesh. This achievement demonstrates Indian Railways’ commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable modes of transportation. Notably, the electrification of BG routes extends beyond Uttar Pradesh. Indian Railways has successfully electrified BG routes in six zonal railways, namely the East Coast Railway, North Central Railway, North Eastern Railway, Eastern Railway, South Eastern Railway, and West Central Railway. This comprehensive electrification effort contributes to enhancing the efficiency, capacity, and environmental sustainability of the Indian Railways network as a whole.
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States |
Maharashtra has the first bamboo crash barrier in the world. The installation of the world’s first 200-meter-long bamboo crash barrier on the Vani-Warora Highway marks a notable achievement. Known as ‘Bahu Balli,’ this groundbreaking bamboo crash barrier has undergone extensive testing at government-operated facilities, including the National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) in Pithampur, Indore. The successful implementation of this barrier along the Vidarbha highway highlights its potential as a practical substitute for conventional steel barriers.
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Sagarmala Programme Approves Floating Jetties in Karnataka The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has granted approval to seven floating jetty projects located on the Gurupura River and the Netravati River in Karnataka. These projects will be established at various locations including Kasaba Bengre, Sandpit Bengre, Northern Sandbar, Old Port, and Jeppinamogaru Old Ferry. The Sagarmala scheme, which focuses on the development of the maritime sector, has allocated the entire budget of Rs. 26 crores to these projects, representing 100% funding. The growth of the maritime sector has been instrumental in facilitating the country’s trade activities. These projects are expected to contribute significantly to tourism, job creation, and overall economic development in the region, benefiting multiple sectors. At the apex of policy direction stands the National Sagarmala Apex Committee (NSAC), which plays a key role in shaping and guiding the implementation of the Sagarmala initiative.
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At the ICAR National Research Centre in Bikaner, Shri Parshottam Rupala inaugurates the Camel Product Processing Utilisation & Training Wing. Union Minister Parshottam Rupala inaugurated the Camel Product Processing Utilisation & Training Wing at the ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel in Bikaner. During the event, the minister engaged in discussions with pastoralists and members of the pastoral community at the research centre. The establishment of the Product Processing Utilisation & Training Wing aims to explore the vast opportunities in the camel product processing sector.
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Renuka Singh Saruta, a minister for the union, dedicates the Mara Tribal Girls’ Hostel in Lunglei, Mizoram. The Mara Tribal Girls’ Hostel in Lunglei, Mizoram was inaugurated by Renuka Singh Sarta, the Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs. During the opening ceremony, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering women and implementing various programs and initiatives to uphold their rights and dignity. The establishment of this hostel, which offers education and advancement opportunities for tribal girls, contributes to the overall development of the nation. It serves as a stepping stone towards building a more progressive society that fosters equal opportunities and growth for women.
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West Bengal tops the ranking for literacy among children under 10 years old, while Uttar Pradesh comes in last. In the second edition of the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Index 2022, an assessment of literacy levels among children below the age of 10, West Bengal retained its leading position among the large states, whereas Uttar Pradesh ranked at the bottom. In the category of smaller states, Punjab secured the top spot on the index, while Telangana found itself at the bottom. Puducherry emerged as the frontrunner among the union territories, while Ladakh performed the weakest. Among the northeastern states, Sikkim achieved the highest position on the index.
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New District in Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that Mauganj, a tehsil/taluka in Rewa district will be the 53rd district in the state Four Tehsils were given to Mauganj, namely Mauganj, Hanumana, Nai Garhi and Deotalab. Citizens of Mauganj were demanding a new district. CM also released ₹650 Crores in 27000 bank accounts belonging to the beneficiaries as a part of the Sambal Yojana.
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For social media companies, the government establishes a Grievance Appellate Committee The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has launched the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) portal in adherence to the IT Rules, 2021. The newly updated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 introduced the GAC as a provision. Its primary purpose is to address user grievances regarding the insufficient grievance redressal mechanisms offered by social media intermediaries. Each GAC will consist of three government-appointed, full-time members, including a chairperson. These members will be professionals from diverse backgrounds, collectively working towards ensuring effective grievance resolution.
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Launch of the High Price Day Ahead Market and Surplus Power Portal (PUShP) by the central government. The federal government has launched a High Price Day Ahead Market and Surplus Power Portal (PUShP) with the aim of enhancing power availability during periods of peak demand. R.K. Singh, the Union Minister for Power, introduced the webpage during a virtual event held in New Delhi. Over 200 representatives from state governments and the power industry attended the portal’s inauguration. According to the Union Minister, the portal will ensure optimal utilization of power capacity at a fair price. Instructed by the Ministry of Power, the Central Power Regulatory Commission (CERC) has set a price cap of Rs 12 on the rates in the power exchange. This initiative seeks to facilitate a more efficient and equitable power market, benefiting both consumers and power suppliers.
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US recognises the McMahon line as the border between Arunachal Pradesh and China China has constantly claimed a part of Arunachal Pradesh as it’s territory. The US rejects Chinese claims over the Indian Northeast State. A bipartisan resolution acknowledges Arunachal Pradesh as a part of India and condemns the People’s Republic of China for its provocations in South Asia.
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Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology launches New Digital Platform Grievance Appellate Committee, GAC established by Union Mos Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar. It is a faceless dispute resolution mechanism that aims to make all platforms accountable to digital citizens. The Ministry announced that three GACs must be established in accordance with the modified IT regulations,2021.
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Awards |
Naatu Naatu wins Oscar along with The Elephant Whisperers The song from the movie ‘RRR’ has bagged an Oscar in the ‘Best Original Song Category’ at the Academy Awards 2023. The lyrics were penned by Chandrabose and the music was given by M. M. Keeravani. The Elephant Whisperers directed by Kartiki Gonsalves won the award for Best Documentary Short. Such wins are important for harnessing India’s Soft power through popularizing Indian culture across the world.
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RRR by SS Rajamouli dominates the 2023 Hollywood Critics Association Awards RRR, directed by SS Rajamouli, garnered significant acclaim and triumphed at the Hollywood Critics Association Awards ceremony held in Los Angeles, California in 2023. The film secured an impressive five awards across multiple categories, including Best Stunts, Best Original Song (Naatu Naatu), Best Action Film, Best International Film, and the prestigious Spotlight award. Esteemed individuals such as the renowned music composer MM Keeravani, Indian director SS Rajamouli, and their families graced the momentous ceremony with their presence. The recognition received by RRR highlights its exceptional achievements and the widespread appreciation it garnered from the international film community.
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Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships And Awards Are Given By The President Of India President Droupadi Murmu has given out SangeetNatakAkademi awards and fellowships for the years 2019, 2020, and 2021. Eight notable individuals received Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships in the performing arts on this occasion. The Awards were granted to a total of 128 artists from the fields of music, dance, theatre, traditional, folk, and puppetry. In addition, the Akademi presented 86 artists with unique special honours in recognition of India’s 75th year of independence.
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At the National Photography Awards presentation, Sipra Das receives the Lifetime Achievement Award. The 8th National Photography Award ceremony celebrated the exceptional talent within the photography community. Among the recipients, Sipra Das, a distinguished photojournalist, was honoured with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award. The event took place in New Delhi and recognized a total of 13 photographers across various categories. Sipra Das, known for her remarkable contributions to the field, received the Lifetime Achievement Award, accompanied by a generous cash prize of Rs. 3,000,000. Additionally, the Professional Photographer of the Year and Amateur Photographer of the Year were recognized with cash prizes of Rs. 1,00,000 and Rs. 75,000, respectively Special Mention Awards were also granted to outstanding photographers in both the Professional and Amateur categories, with each recipient receiving a monetary prize of Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 30,000, respectively. The theme of the competition in the professional category focused on capturing the rich cultural heritage of India, allowing photographers to showcase the beauty and diversity of the nation through their artistic lens.
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Global acknowledgement of India’s telecom developments and policies through the GSMA Award: The Minister for Communications, Electronics & IT and Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, stated that the GSMA Award is a testament to the worldwide acknowledgement of the telecom reforms implemented under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He further highlighted the significant improvement in the clearance process for right-of-way (RoW) permissions. Previously, this procedure would take more than 230 days, but now it is accomplished within a remarkable timeframe of just 8 days.
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Indexes |
Global Terrorism Index Afghanistan ranked at top. Pakistan climbs four spots to be rated at the sixth spot. India ranked at 13th spot. South Asia is the region with the worst GTI score.
World Happiness Report 2023 Published by UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. India Ranked at 125, while Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and China ranked higher than India. A total of 137 countries ranked. Afghanistan ranked at last, 137th spot.
Passport Index 2023 Released by Arton Capital India’s rank is 144, which falls six places from the previous year’s 138 rank. UAE is at the top with 181 countries allowing UAE citizens to travel Visa-free. UAE is followed by Sweden, Germany, Finland, Luxembourg, Spain, and France in the list. India ranked 85 in the Henley Passport Index
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Economy |
Indian Economy to grow by 7%in FY23 says Finance Ministry report The Finance Ministry report has expected the Indian economy to grow by 7% in FY23 despite global conditions that inhibit the progress. Retail Inflation would moderate, in line with the wholesale inflation which fell to a 25-month low on January 23. It will be supported by the moderation in oil prices, high service exports and the recent decline in import-intensive consumption demand. The Current Account Deficit of India is estimated to fall in FY23 and the consecutive year.
The entrepreneurship event at IIM Kashipur enables funding of $5 crore for agricultural start-ups. During the annual entrepreneurship summit Uttishtha 2023 at IIM Kashipur, the Foundation for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (FIED) played a significant role in enabling 15 agro start-ups to secure funding of 5 crore rupees. Supported by the Agriculture Ministry, this program aims to enhance Uttarakhand’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing aspiring entrepreneurs with opportunities to realize their goals. The event witnessed the participation of over 100 start-ups and approximately 20 venture capitalists, fostering discussions on shared interests and collaborations.
Now, bitcoin trade will be covered by money laundering legislation. As per the government’s directive, transactions involving virtual assets or cryptocurrency will be governed by the Prevention of Money Laundering Act of 2002. The recent notification from the Finance Ministry specifies that financial services associated with the storage and sale of virtual digital assets will also fall within the purview of the money laundering legislation. Additionally, the exchange of virtual digital assets between different forms and the transfer of such assets will be subject to the provisions of the money laundering act. In compliance with these regulations, intermediaries handling Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) and cryptocurrency exchanges will now be required to conduct Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures on their customers and users of their platforms.
Despite a decline in overall imports, India will continue to be the largest arms importer between 2018 and 22. India maintained its position as the world’s largest arms importer during the period from 2018 to 2022, despite a decrease in its overall imports. It accounted for approximately 11% of the global arms imports during this time. Throughout the years 2013 to 2022, Russia remained India’s leading arms supplier. However, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), there was an 11% decline in arms shipments from Russia to India between 2013 and 2018.
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Defence |
India-Africa Army Chiefs’ Conclave and AFINDEX-2023 In Pune, the India-Africa Army Chiefs’ Conclave took place with the objective of strengthening defense relations and establishing a structured framework to enhance military cooperation between India and African countries. The conclave’s central theme was AMRUT (Africa-India Militaries for Regional Unity), emphasizing regional cooperation and integration among the armed forces of both India and African nations. This event coincided with the AFINDEX-2023. The joint military exercise between India and African nations, known as the Africa-India Field Training Exercise (AFINDEX), focuses on humanitarian mine action and peacekeeping operations. AFINDEX-2023 witnessed the participation of 25 nations, including India and 24 African countries. This exercise represents a significant milestone in defence relations between India and African nations. The India-Africa Army Chiefs’ Conclave aims to enhance synergy and cooperation among the militaries of India and African nations within a regional cooperation framework. Senior army officers, civilian and defence officials, as well as Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, were among the participants. The joint training and defence cooperation among these nations aims to establish a structured framework for collaboration in areas such as joint military training, peacekeeping operations, and engagement with the Indian defence industry. India provides training programs for the Armed Forces of African countries, covering various areas such as counter-insurgency operations, peacekeeping, maritime security, and specialized training in emerging domains like cyber warfare and drone operations. Additionally, India offers training to civilians in disaster management, humanitarian aid, and medical assistance. These training programs promote positive military relations, and exchange of best practices, and enhance the ability to operate together during Humanitarian Mine Action and Peacekeeping Operations mandated by the United Nations.
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Agriculture |
The government allows farmers’ use of nano-liquid DAP fertilizer. The government has granted approval for the use of nano liquid DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) fertilizer, providing a significant benefit to farmers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that this approval will not only simplify the lives of farmers but also contribute to the nation’s self-reliance. Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, mentioned that the Ministry of Agriculture has also given its approval for nano liquid DAP. This innovative fertilizer, being developed by IFFCO, is expected to bring about a revolutionary change in the agricultural sector and boost the economy. In December, the government announced that IFFCO would soon launch nano DAP at an affordable price of Rs 600 for a 500-ml bottle, further promoting its accessibility and adoption among farmers.
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Technology |
H3N8 and its Presence in China Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a viral disease that primarily affects birds but can also be transmitted to humans and other animals, including horses and dogs. Among the various subtypes of the Influenza A virus responsible for bird flu, H3N8 is one of them. This article delves into the background of H3N8 and provides an overview of its current occurrences in China. H3N8 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus commonly found in birds and horses. It is also known as the Equine influenza virus and is one of the two viruses that can cause dog flu. Human cases of H3N8 were not documented until 2022. However, some researchers speculate that it might have been responsible for the 1889 pandemic, also known as the “Russian flu” or “Asiatic flu.” The primary mode of transmission for bird flu is through direct contact with infected birds or exposure to their faeces, saliva, and respiratory secretions. Individuals who handle infected birds or have close proximity to them face the highest risk of contracting the virus. In rare instances, bird flu can also be transmitted from person to person through close contact. In China, the first human case of H3N8 infection was detected in April 2022, when a 4-year-old boy from central China fell seriously ill. The boy’s pets, a dog and a cat, also contracted the virus. Another case emerged in May 2022 when a 5-year-old boy from Hunan province became ill. Thankfully, he quickly recovered after experiencing only mild symptoms. More recently, an H3N8 case was reported in Zhongshan City.
Aegis School of Data Science’s AGBA initiative The 13th edition of the Aegis School of Data Science’s AGBA initiative, aimed at fostering an innovative culture in India, has received support from prominent organizations including the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, NITI Aayog, and Skill India.
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Environment |
Coastal Kerala Geckoella A groundbreaking finding has been made by a research team led by Ishan Agarwal and Akshay Khandekar from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation in Mumbai. Scientists have unveiled a previously unknown species of ground-dwelling gecko in the coastal forests of northern Kerala. This particular gecko, named Cyrtodactylus (Geckoella) Chengodumalaensis, thrives in the forested regions adjacent to the coast, taking refuge among leaf litter and rocks in areas characterized by dense canopies, such as forests and orchards. It is a small-sized gecko that predominantly emerges during the night. Its presence contributes to the already remarkable biodiversity found in the coastal forests of northern Kerala, which are renowned for hosting species unique to the area. Termed the Chengodumala or Coastal Kerala Geckoella, this gecko species is also referred to as the Chengodumala dwarf gecko or Cnemaspis Chengodumalaensis. It can be spotted not only in the coastal forests but also on the midland hillock in Kozhikode district, specifically in the Chengodumala region, which serves as its type locality. The identification of this gecko species highlights the insufficient exploration conducted on the biodiversity of these low-elevation hillocks, suggesting the likelihood of numerous undiscovered species awaiting recognition. Regrettably, Chengodumala and other coastal hills in northern Kerala are facing severe challenges, including illegal mining and uncontrolled logging. Preserving these distinctive habitats, which nurture a wide array of indigenous species, is of utmost importance due to the imminent threats they encounter. The discovery of this newfound ground-dwelling gecko species further underscores the necessity for continuous exploration and conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding the biodiversity present in these low-elevation hillocks.
India will contribute $100 million and establish a global alliance for large cats. India has recently put forth a proposal to establish the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with a commitment to support the initiative for five years and provide a financing guarantee of $100 million. The IBCA aims to create a robust global coalition dedicated to safeguarding and conserving the world’s seven primary big cat species, such as the cheetah, tiger, lion, leopard, and snow leopard. The IBCA’s structure includes a General Assembly composed of all participating nations, ensuring inclusive decision-making. It also comprises a Secretariat and a Council, elected by the General Assembly for a five-year term. The Council consists of at least seven and up to fifteen member nations, further enhancing the alliance’s representation and effectiveness.
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Other |
Rani Rampal becomes the first woman sportsperson to have a stadium named after her as ‘ Rani’s girl’s hockey turf’ in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh GDP growth 4.4 per cent in October -December third quarter of current FY 2022 23. Real GDP is estimated to grow at 7 per cent for the current financial year. Moody’s Investors Services raised India’s growth rate projection to 5.5 per cent from the previous estimate on November 22 at 4.4 per cent. The projected growth rate in FY 24 is 6.5 per cent. India’s growth rate is highest amongst G20 countries Mirabai Chanu was awarded the 2022 BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year award. Mumbai Indians win the inaugural Women’s Premier League final held at Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. Egypt Joins BRICS New Development Bank as the sixth member S. S. Dubey was appointed as the 28th Controller General of Accounts. Union Mos (Independent charge) Science and Technology inaugurated Asia’s Largest 4-meter International Liquid Mirror Telescope in Devasthal, Uttarakhand.
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Important days in March |
1 March – World Civil Defense Day, Zero Discrimination Day, World Seagrass Day 3 March – World Wildlife Day 4 March – National Safety Day, National Security Day, world obesity day 5 March – International day for Disarmament 7 March – 5th ‘Jan Aushadhi Diwas ‘ 2023 8 March – International Women’s Day 10 March – International day of women judges 15 March – World Consumer Rights day 16 March – National Vaccination day No Smoking day – Second Wednesday of March.
Ministry of Women and Children Development organized the 5th Poshan Pakhwada from 20 March to 3 April 2023
Earth hour – Last Wednesday of March between 8.30 and 9.30 pm. 2023 date is 25 March
18 March – Global Recycling Day 20 March – International Day of Happiness, World oral health day 21 March – International Day of Forests 22 March – World water day 23 March – World Meteorological Day 24 March – World Tuberculosis Day 25 March – International day of remembrance of the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade 27 March – World Theatre day |
