January 2023 Edition yd ue CLAT IGNITE Your Knowledge Companion Current Affairs MagazinePrepare For PREPARE FOR CLAT & OTHER LAW ENTRANCE EXAMS WITH NLU ALUMNI AND EXPERT FACULTY DGC) Sa oC oy Renee od rn en carig PSU etic} Alpa Sharma Denny Coe cn Ankur Sharma CO] —— Oe en Coen Soe Ut) Ree ee nowww byjusexamprep.com syu's LAT IGNITE- JANUARY 2023 Dear Aspirant, ‘* Since you are aware of the competition level in the various law exams, one thing is clear; the examinations are getting tougher and tougher. And in all the sections of various law entrance exams, the current affairs section is very unpredictable, in which aspirants face major hurdles. ‘© Current affairs is a very important subject that needs to be covered strategically, and this plays @ very important role in all the Law Related UG Exams. Thus, maintaining a monthly compilation of current affairs is highly recommended. ‘+ [tis extremely importantto keep a tab on the major news and happenings that affect us socially and politically. One should be aware of the facts and be able to analyze the news, dissect it, and evaluate it from different dimensions while preparing for the CLAT exam, ‘+ With this view, BYJU’S Exam Prep has come up with yet another emazing feature thet will make your CLAT preparation easier and more streamlined. Presenting the “CLAT IGNITE” Monthly Current Affairs Magazine. Features of the CLAT IGNITE, Current Affairs Magazine ‘+ Allthe important news and views from newspapers that are required for the CLAT and Other Law- Entrance exams. ‘* tis divided into sections like National News, International Affairs, Science and Technology, Sports, ‘Awards and Honours, etc. © Each newsis analyzed and dissected as per the CLAT exam. ‘* Magazines are available from July 2021. ‘+ Passage-Based Current Affairs for practice with detailed solutions. ‘+ Important One Liners of the month. ‘+ Available ina convenient PDF format that you can download. The thorough analysis of our “CLAT IGNITE MAGAZINE” and deep study-cum-practice of our “CLAT IGNITE” Monthly Current Affairs Workbook” will make you confident enough and exam-battle ready so ‘that no question in the current affairs section of the law entrance exam will trouble you anymore. Note: Scurces usec Th, HT, iE, SCROLL, MINT.PIB, NOA, DDNEWS & etc Alll the Best!!!wwe byjusexamprep.com LS Section Page No. 4. Top Story: India Celebrates 74 Republic Day 5 2. National News: Gujarat’s 1* women chief secretary passes away 09 3. 108" Indian Science Congress addressed by PM Modi 10 4, BIND Scheme & more news tS 5. International News: India assumes Wassenaar Agreement 3 6. Croatia adopts EURO 32 7. India took charge of APPU... 34 8. State News: Tripura signs agreement with ADB for power projects a 9. Kollam becomes 1* constitution litrate district .. 45 10. Economic News: RBI launches “UTKARSH 2.0" for FY 2023 ag 11. B-20 inception meeting in Gujarat ... 51 12. Sports News: Khelo India Youth Games 2022 sa 1, Pranesh M becomes 79" Grandmaster of India 55 414, Tennis Star Sania Mira Retires ... 56 45, Honors & Awards:Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Awards 2023 65 16, SS Rajamouli wins best director for “RRR” or 17. Song “Naatu Naatu” wins at 2023 Golden Globe Award ... nm 48. Appointments: Rajib Badyal named to NSCA group 7 19. Luiz L. Lula sworn as 39!" President of Brazil 78 20.RBI deputy governor M. Patra’s tenure extended ... a 21. Science & Tech News: ISRO & Andhra University collaboration 90 22.EU's 1" mainland satellite launch pad 1 23.1SRO's “SHUKTAYAAN" mission shifted to 2031 ... 92 24,Defence News: Cap. Shiva Chauhan: Siachen's women officer 96 25.PRITHVLII successful test ... 99 26. Important One Liners 104 "27. Passage Based Practice Questions id 40 28. Days to Remember December 2022 143www byjusexamprep.com wmsyus OP STORY| India Celebrates 74 Republic Day: 26 January 2023 India celebrated its 74th Republic Day with full enthusiasm, braving the cold weather and multiple security checks at the newly refurbished Central Vista. The event saw many first of its-kind moments on the Kartavya Path, The world’s biggest democracy celebrated its 74 years of being © Republic with meticulously designed tableaus, different marching contingents, tricolour decorations, and a fun-filled crowd. The event was started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the National War Memorial in New Dethiwith Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to pay homage to our fellen heroes and commemorate their sacrifice. PM Modi was also accompanied by CDS Lt General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Hari Kumar and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari After laying wreaths at the memorial, PM Modi and his cavalcade arrived at the saluting dais where he was received by other dignitaries from the Government of India. President Droupadi Murmu and the Chief Guest, Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi ‘The Republic Day celebrations were marked by many spectacular events, here are some of the highlights from the event: ceived a warm welcome from PM Modi. 4. Amilitary contingent of the Egyptian Army marched in India's Republic Day parade. The The Egyptian military glimpse of the veterans’ contributions in the last 75 years and their initiatives in shaping India's future during ‘Amrit Kaal. 4A total of six marching contingents of the contingent in the parade had 144 personnel. Ari inehiaing The 2. The vintage artillery with 25-pounder guns that Mechanised Infantry traditionally fres Regiment, The. the — thundering Punjab Regiment, The Maratha Light Infantry ceremonial 21- Regiment, The Dogra Regiment, The Bihar Gun Salute during Regimentand The Gorkha Brigade marched past the Republic Day the saluting dais. celebrations was | 5 replaced by 105 mm Indian field guns this year, as the government makes a further push for its Make in India initiative. 3. Another highlight of the parade this year was the Veterans Tablecu, with the theme "Towards India's Amrit Kaal with Resolve - A Veterans’ Commitment’. It provideda Female camel riders participated in the Republic Day parade for the first. time, These women riders are 0 part of the BSF's Camel regiment. This was aimed at showcasing women's empowerment or Nori Shakti in several fields.www byjusexamprep.com wmsyus 6. Ateam of "Daredevils" Motor Cycle Riders from the Comps of Signals was co-led by a woman officer in the parade, Surveillance, Communication and Neutralising Threats’ 40. Tableaus from different states and the Union Tertiiory of India showcased a cultural blend of the country's diverse and rich history. 1. Among the = 17 tableaux by states and Union 7. The Indian Navy tableau featured a women aircrew of Domier circraft, representing an alk women crew surveillance sortie undertaken last year. The main section of the tableau displayed the ‘Make in India! initiatives of the Territories for the Republic Day parade, the Assam tableau was based on the theme, "Land of heroes and spiritualism’ and featured Bihu dancers. The Gujarat tableau was based on the theme "Clean Newy. Green Energy Efficient Gujarat." The Uttarakhand 8, The Indion AirForce contingentcomprised144 ir tableau featured the Manaskhand tourism warriors and four corridor on which work is underway. officers, led by Sgn Ldr Sindhu Reddy. Tho Air Force tableau, designed on the theme ‘Indian Air Force Power Beyond Boundaries’, displayed @ rotating globe highlighting IAF's expanded reach, whereby it has been able to provide humanitarian | 13- The grand finale and assistance across borders, as also exercises the most eagerly- conducted with friendly countries. awaited segment of the parade, the fly past, witnessed a breathtaking air show: by 45 aircraft of the Indian Air Force, one from the Indian Navy and four helicopters from the Indian 12. Various Indian ministries also showcased their tableaus at the Republic Day parade with themes resonating with the ideas of future India. Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased one tableau and ‘equipment. The theme of the tableau Anmy. is ‘Securing Nation with Effective iat Eker Republic Day is a national holiday in India that commemorates the date on which the Indian Constitution took effect on January 26°, 1950, succeeding the Government of India Act, 1935 as the nation’s governing document and transforming the country into a newly constituted republic. The switchover of India from an independent Commonwealth realm with the British Monarch as the nominal head of the Indian Dominion toa completely sovereign republic inside the Commonwealth of Nations having the President of India as the nominal head of the Indian Union is also commemorated on this day.wwew.byjusexamprep.com History of Republic Day of Indi After the indian independence struggle, India gained independence from the British Raj on August 15°, 1947. The Indian Independence Act of 1947, an Act of the United Kingdom Parliament, partitioned British India into two new sovereign Dominions within the British Commonwealth (later Commonwealth of Nations). India became a constitutional monarchy on August 15", 1947, with George VIas head of the state and Earl Mountbatten being the governor-general. However, the nation lacked a permanent constitution, and its laws were based on the colonial Governmont of India Act 1935, which had been altered. On August 29", 1947, a motion wes introduced calling for the formation of a Drafting Committee to design permanent constitution, with Dr. BR Ambedkar as its. chairman, While India’s Independence Day commemorates the country’s independence from British rule, the Republic Day commemorates the country’s constitution’s entry into force. The committee drafted a constitution and submitted it to the Constituent Assembly on November 4", 1947. Before adopting the Constitution, the Assembly met for about 166 days in public sessions lasting 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days. After extensive deliberation and some amendments, the 308 members of the Constituent Assembly signed two handwritten versions of the document (one in Hindi and one in English) on January 24", 1950, It went into force two days later, on January 26”, 1950, across the entire country. Dr. Rajendra Prasad began his first tenure as Presidentof the Indian Union on that day. Under the new Constitution's transitional provisions, the Constituent Assembly became the Indian Parliament. The President addresses the country on the eve of Republic Day. Reasons for Choosing 26th January as Republic Day At its Lahore session on December 19", 1929, the Indian National Congress issued a historic resolution of *Purna Swaraj.” or complete selfrule. The mys Congress party declared that the Indians would celebrate “Independence Day” on January 26", 1930. On the riverbank of the Ravi river in Lahore, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, President of the Congress Party, unfurled the tricolour. For the next 17 years, this, day was known as Poorna Swaraj Day. When the Indian Constitution was adopted on November 26%, 1949, many people thought it was important to commemorate and enforce the document on January 26", a day associated with national pride. Celebrations of Republic Day The republic day celebrations are majorly divided into three parts i.e. the Republic Day Parade, the Beating Retreat, and the Award Distributions, Beating Retreat After the official end of Republic Day celebrations, the Beating Retreat ceremony is held, It takes place ‘on the eve of January 28th, the third day following Republic Day. It is played by the bands of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, which represent the three branches of the military. Raisina Hill and Vijay Chowk, a nearby area flanked by the North and South blocks of the Rashtrapat Bhavan (President's Residence) towards the end of Rajpath, are the locations. Award Distribution Every yearon the evening of Republic Day. the Indian President bestows Padma Awards on Indian civilians, After the Bharat Ratna, these are India’s second highest civilian honours. In decreasing order of importance, these honours are granted in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri + Padma Vibhushan: for “distinguished and excellent service” The Padma Vibhushan is India's second highest civilian honour. * Padma Bhushan: for “distinguished high-level service”. The Padma Bhushan is India's third highest civilian honour. + Padma Shri: in recognition of “distinguished service”. Padma Shri is India's fourth highest civilian honour.www byjusexamprep.com wmsyus ‘Some Important interesting Facts about Republic Day: From 1950 to 1954, the R-Day Parade used to be held at Irwin Stadium (now known as National Stodium), Kingsway, Red Fort and Ramleela Maidan during those four years respectively. The first Parade at Rajpath was held in 1955 where the first Governor-General of Pakistan - Malik Gulam Mohammed, was invited as the chief guest. It is a tradition to invite a chief quest for every Republic Day parade and they could either be the President or Prime Minister of any country or a foreign leader. For the very first parade on January 26, 1950, Dr Sukarno, the then President of Indonesia was invited. Due to the Covic-19 pandemic that raged the globe, no chief guest was invited to the Republic Day parade in 2021 nor was one invited in 2022 The Beating Retreat ceremony, which takes place at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on January 29 every year, traces its origin to a tradition from the 1600s. This tradition to announce the return of the troops began when King James Il ordered his troops to beat drums, lower flags and organise a parade to declare the end of a day of combat. The first foreign military contingent, French Army soldiers, took part in Republic day Parade in 2018. During the retreat ceremony of the Republic Day parade, Mahatma Gandhi's favourite song called ‘Abide With Me’ was always played 6s an ode. Written by Scottish poet Henry Francis Lyte and composed by William Henry Monk in the 19th century, the song was replaced by the central government in 2022 and now the Hindi song ‘Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon’ is played. noswww byjusexamprep.com wmsyus NATIONAL NEWS| Gujarat's first woman chief secretary Manjula Subramaniam passes away + The first woman chief secretary of Gujarat, Dr Manjula Subramaniam has been passed away at the age of 74 due to health complications at a hospital in Vadodara «She was appointed as the first woman chief secretary of Gujarat in 2007. a «PM Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat then. + After retirement, she was appointed as chief vigilancecommissionerofGujarat, + She was also part of the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation. + Subramaniam held the office of chief secretary between September, 2007, and September 30, 2008. © She was also the director of Gujarat Industries Power Company Limited (GIPCL), from where ‘Subramaniam resigned around a fortnight ago on health grounds. + Capital: Gandhinagar ‘+ Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel + Governor: Acharya Dewvrat Source: nnxprese LL ee ooo ee ee eka eet Ts «The Ministry of Rural Development under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission has launched the Prajjwala Challenge + Aim: To invite ideas, solutions and actions that can transform rural economy ‘The broad contours fall into following categories: Focus on Women and Marginalized section of community; Localised Models; Sustainability, Cost Effective solutions; Multi sectoral ideas and solutions + Top 5 ideas will be rewarded with Rs. 2 Lakh each + The Mission is looking for ideas and solutions around Innovative Technology Solution, Inclusive Growth, Value Chain Interventions, Enhanced Women Entrepreneurship, Cost effective Solutions, Sustainability, place-based employment, localised models etc. The broad contours fall into following categories: © a. Focus on Women and Marginalized section of community © b.Localised Mode's © ¢ Sustainability © d. Cost Effective solutions © e, Multi sectoral ideas and solutions etc + DAY-NRLMis one of the flagship poverty alleviation programs of the Ministry of Rural Development, which aims at creating efficient and effective institutional platforms of the rural poor, enabling them to nosBYJU'S Jexaiu Pai increase household income through sustainable livelihoods enhancements and improved access to financial services. The mission focuses for livelinood augmentation through. + The Mission so far has mobilised more than 87 Million women in to the Self Hep Groups and their federations. source PID Sere ee ee OD «Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 108th Indian Science Congress through video conferencing on 3rd January, 2023, [ v © Theme 2023: Science and Technology for Sustainable Development with Women Empowerment The inaugural ceremony hosted by Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU) at its Amravati Road Campus. + The technical sessions of the 108th Indian Science Congress have been divided into 14 sections. The Indian Science Congress Is the annual gathering of researchers In India. It Is organized by ISCA (Indian Science Congress Association), headquartered in Kolkata, Wost Bengal. This professional body established in 1914 falls under the Science and Technology Department of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. + The indian Science Congress Association is the brainchild and initiative of two British Chemists, Professor J. L. Simonsen and Professor P.S. McMahon. They believed that the annual meeting of researchers could stimulate scientific research in India. The meeting in India is held on the lines of the Association for the Advancement of Science held in Britain. ‘+ The first gathering of the Indian Science Congress was held in 1914 at the premises of the Asiatic Society in Calcutta. Since then, the conference has been held in the first week of January every year. The meeting is graced by prominent Indian and foreign scientists end Nobel laureates each year. The theme of the Indian Science Congress 2021 was ‘Sustainable Development with Women Empowerment.’ The theme of the Indian Science Congress 2020 was ‘Science and Technology: Rural Development.’ + The focal theme of this year’s 2023 Science Congress has been very thoughttully finalized as “Science & Technology for Sustainable Development with Women Empowerment”. source? Stoke ee eee ee ome | The government of India has constituted 17 member, High Powered Commitiee (HPC) under the Chairmanship of Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai cam © Reason: To discuss measures to protect unique culture, language and ‘employment of Ladakh. eee aw Se ee Te cia [ee eee ee CorBYJU'S exam eer + The committee includes Ladokh LG, RK Mathur; MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal; Chairmans of Leh and Kargil Hill councils, representatives of Apex Body Leh, Kargil Democratic Alliance and nominee officials of Home ministry. + Ladakh becomes Union territory on: 31 October 2019, © Capitals: Leh, Kargil + Districts: 2 «Lieutenant Governor: faciha Krishna Mathur + Member of Parliament: Jamyang Tsering Namgyal (BJP) + High Court: High Court of Jammu and Kashmir end Ladakh Source: Newsonaie MR ae ey + The Netionel Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) and the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) have launched “SMART program. + 'SMART' refers to Scope for Mainstreaming Ayurveda Research in Teaching Professionals. 'o boost sciemtific research in priority healthcare research areas through Ayurveda colleges and hospitals. + The program was launched by Vaidya Jayant Deopujari (Chairman, NCISM) and Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya (DG, CCRAS). SMART Program: + The program will motivate teachers for taking Up projects in designated areas of healthcare ‘« _ Itwas observed that the research potential of research and create a large database. the large community of Ayurveda teachers remains underutilized mostly. Therefore, the | About AYUSH: "SMART program will have a deep long term rejuvenating impacton research in the field of Ayurveda and it will be a great service to the nation. * Ayush is Traditional & Non-Conventional Systems of Health Care and Healing which includes Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy. + It aims to identify, support and promote innovative research ideas in healthcare research areas Including Osteoarthritis, Iron Deficiency Anaemia, Chronic Bronchitis, Dyslipidemia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Obesity, : Diabetes Mellitus, Psoriasis, Generalised public comparstivelyIessercostand rowing Anviety Disorder, Nonalcoholic fatty iver economic value, have great potential to make cisesse (NAFLD). them providers of healthcare that the large sections of our people need. + The positive features of the Indian systems of medicine namely their diversity and flexibility: accessibility, affordability, @ broad acceptance by a large section of the general eee a Oe Ce oa) < et eae ee eewwnubyjusexamorep.com eos z arch Siyom Bridge «Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated the 100-metre, Siyom Bridge in Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. + This bridge will open an alternative route to the India-China border. © The Siyom Bridge is one of the 28 projects completed by the Border Roads Organisation at 2 cost of Rs 724 crore to strengthen border infrastructure. He has virtually inaugurated other 27 projects in Ladakh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Punjab and J&K. World's Highest Railway Bridge: The Chenab + This bridge is 1.315-metre long and is the Bridge highest railway bridge in the world being 359 ; metres above the river bed level. *Itis the world's highest railway bridge and is, part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail * The completion of the steel arch is a major link project (USBRL). leap towards the completion of the 111 km + The Biofectwwes Gedlared aaveiBajact oF long winding stretch from Katra to Banihal National Importance in March 2002. Specifications of Chenab Bridge = 359m (1178 ft) Deck height (height above river bed) = 322 m (height above river surface)!,056 ft) Bridge length: 1315 m ‘Arch Span 467 m (1,532 ft) Arch length: 480 m (1,570 ft) Unique Features of the Chenab Bridge: «Bridge designed to withstand high wind speed up to 266 Km/Hour. ‘+ Bridge designed for blast load in consultation with DRDO for the first time in India. ‘Bridge designed to bear earthquake forces of highest intensity zone-V in india. ‘First time on Indian Railways, Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing machine used for testing of welds. ‘* First time on Indian Railways, National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accredited lab established at site for weld testing. ‘+ Extensive health monitoring and warning systems planned through state of art instrumentation. ‘Seurce: TimerPEE Uber ee cer eet BYJU'S: ]exAM Peer Rrra + The Jal Shakti Ministry has organised the first All India Annual State Ministers Conference on Water in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh on January 5, 2023, + Theme: Water Vision @ 2047 oot + Aim: To bring together key policymakers to discuss ways to hamess water resources for sustainable development and human progress. * The Conference has also deliberated on ‘SP’ mantra (Political will, Public financing, Partnerships, Public Participation and Persuasion for sustainability) Date of Formation May 2019. Governing Ministers _Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Cabinet Minister and Rattan Lal Kataria, Minister of State Objectives of Jal Shakti Ministry + The Jal Shakti Ministry focuses on issues such as international and interstate water disputes, cleaning of the Ganga, its tributaries and sub-tributaries and also aims in providing clean drinking water. The formation of this, ministry targets towards the mounting water challenges faced by India over the past few decades. «Some important schemes/initiatives/ programmes that are taken care of by the Jal Shakti Ministry are: Jal Jeevan Mission © Jal Shakti Abhiyan © Atal Bhujal Yojana © Namami Gange Programme © National Aquifer Mapping Programme © PMKtishiSinchayee Yojana National Water Mission The National Water Mission was launched by PM Narendra Modi under the National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC) to tackle the threats of global warming. © The National Water Mission emphasizes on conservation of water and minimizing the wastage. + Italso ensures the equitable distribution of water across and within the states through the development and management of integrated water resources, Source:Newsonsirwww byjusexamprep.com Bysu's re ee ‘The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) ies] approved the BIND Scheme aimed at the includes AIR (All India Radio) and DD (Doordarshan). @UTLAY OF RS.2,539.61 CRORES ‘The BIND scheme is to provide financial support to Prasar Bharati for expenses related to expansion, upgradation of its broadcasting infrastructure, content development and civil work related to the organisation. < nescence At present, there are more than 500 AIR broadcasting centres and Doordarshan operates 36 TV channels including 28 regional channels. The scheme with an outlay of Rs 2,539.81 cr will increase the coverage of AIR FM transmitters in the country to 66% (from 59%) by geographical area and 80% (from 68%) by population. The scheme also includes the distribution of over 8 Lakh DD Free Dish STBs (Set Top Boxes) to people living in tribal, remote, Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) and border areas, Another priority orea of the scheme is the development of high-quality content for both domestic and intemational audiences and to ensure the availability of diverse content to the viewers by upgradation of the capacity of the DTH platform to accommodate more channels. The purchase of OB vans and digital upgradation of DD and AIR studios to make them HD-ready Is also a part of the project. Sourceflensanar 9. Govt approved investment for 382 MW Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project The Government has approved the investment for the 382 MW Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project in Himachal Pradesh with an estimated cost of over 2,614 crore rupees (Rs 2,246.40 crore (Hard cost amounting), Rs 358.96 crore Interest During Construction) and 9.15 crore (Financing Charges). The project will be built on the Sutlej river. It will be constructed by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam limited in over 5 years. The project will generate employment for about 4,000 persons. Source Newsenar 10. Union Government approves National Green Hydrogen Mission The government has approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an initial outlay of 19,744 crore rupees. Aim: To make India a Global Hub for production, utilisation and export of Green Hydrogen. Of the Rs 19,744 crore outlay, 17,490 crore for Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT) programme. Coe Oe Ca oawy The ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) will also formulate the scheme guidelines for implementation of the respective components. GREEN HYDROGEN Stones: through the electrolysis of water using renewable NATIONAL GREEN | || energy sources like solar or wind energy. It is a clean Gabdnet approves National Grom source and has the potential to reduce carbon Outtay inchades: emissions. —, AIM AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE MISSION 2 for Slant programme + The mission intends to facilitate the production of hydrogen from renewable energy. hy Ras00 crore for RAD + Hydrogen is an important industrial fuel that has multiple uses ranging from producing ammonia, making steel and cement, to powering fuel cells, However, the least expensive way to manufacture Hydrogen is @®) ccenponents through fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. Global warming and climate change concerns have gradually highlighted the use of alternative fuels like solar and wind energy for producing hydrogen. The mission aims to create an enabling environment for developing the infrastructure to produce and transport green hydrogen for various industrial applications. Under the ambit of the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT) programme, two distinct financial incentive mechanisms will be facilitated © Targeting domestic manufacturing of electrolysers © Production of Green Hydrogen Areas capable of supporting large-scale procuction and/or utlization of Green Hydrogen will be identified and developed as Green Hydrogen Hubs, ‘A robust green hydrogen policy framework would be established to sustain and promote Green Hydrogen Ecosystem Moreover, a public-private partnership framework for R&D (Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership ~ SHIP} will be supported. A coordinated skill development programme will also be established under the proposed mission. EXPECTED OUTCOMES OF THE MISSION The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) aims to achieve the following targets by 2030: * Development of green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum with related renewable energy capacity addition of nearly 125 GW in India, Total investments of more than Eight lakh crore Employment generation for around Six lakh people Overall fossil fuel import reduction by approximately Rs. One lakh crore Abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissionsIMPORTANT FACTS India’s first 99.89% pure green hydrogen plant was commissioned by Oil India Limited (OIL) in eastern Assam’s Jorhat in April 2022 Ithas an installed capacity of 10kg per day. ‘Seurse: Neweenar BYJU'S exam eer On 3rd January 2023, National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd commissioned India's first green hydrogen blending project with Gujerat Gas Limited (GGL) in Surat. University Grants Commission's (UGC) Chairman, M Jagadesh Kumar has unveiled the draft norms to allow foreign universities to set up campuses in India. As per the draft norms, foreign universities can set up their campuse: India after receiving the approval from UGC. The initial approval will be for 10 years. UGG University Grants Commission Foreign varsities with campuses in the country will only be allowed to offer full-time programmes in physical mode (No online or distance learning). About University Grants Commission — UGC The UGC was established in 1953 and made into a statutory organisation with the UGC Act in 1956. UGC is responsible for coordinating, Cetermining and maintaining standards of higher education The University Grants Commission provides recognition to universities in India and disburses funds to such recognised universities and colleges. The UGC has its Head Office in New Delhi and six regional offices: © Bengaluru © Bhopal © Guwahati © Hyderabad Kolkata Pune eee a Oe Ce oa) [ee eee ee Cor In 2018, the Ministry of Human Resource Development announced its plans to repeal the UGC Act, 1956. The bill also stipulates the formation of anew body, the Higher Education Commission of India (HEC)). The attempts to formalise a_ national educational system in India started duringthe British Raj. The University Grants Committee was formed in 1945 to oversee the functioning ofthe three central universities of the time — Aligarh, Delhi and Banaras. Its responsibility was extended in 1947 to cover all Indian universities The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) is an organisation that assesses and accredits higher education Institutions (HEIs) in India. It is an autonomous body funded by the University Grants Commission and headquartered in Bangalore. Source Newsonohwwnubyiusexamorep.com eos Cornet isters to meet in Delhi in March 2023 + The G20 foreign minister meet is scheduled to take piace in Pragati Maidan, New Deihi in March 2023. + The government has issued an expected guest list that includes Joe Biden (US President), Viadimir Putin (Russia President), Rishi Sunak (UK Prime Minister), Xi Jinping (China Presidet), among others. + Special invitee guest countries: Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and UAE. + India's 620 Sherpa: Amitabh Kant + India officially assumed the G20 Presidency on 1 December. The presidency handover ceremony was held as an intimate event, in which the G20 Presidency gavel was transferred from Indonesian President Joko Widodo to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the close of the Bali summit. Indonesia has presidency of 2022. ‘More than 200 meetings are scheduled to be held across 55 locations, culminating with the annual 620 summit on 9:10 September. ‘+ The first G20 meeting -- the Sherpa meet — was held in the first week of December in Rajasthan’s Udaipur. + The theme of India’s G20 Presidency *“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One Earth - One Family - One Future” closely ties with LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). Source Lvernib1B EM eb eine e ere a eer eee oe ee TLE * Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Narendra Singh = ‘Tomar has inaugurated the three-day ‘North East Krishi Kumbha-2023’ in Meghalaya. + He also participated in the 49" Foundation Day celebration of the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam. + The event included live demonstrations and exhibition of recent technologies through 102 stalls, by the host institute and its regional centers along with all the ICAR institutes. ‘Source:Newsonolr Cee Moore ee ed Pencils + India has hosted a special 'Voice of Global South Summit virtually on 12" and Cree 13" of January 2023. eT + Theme of the Summit is Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose. ed my ny of Purp + The Summit aimed to bring together countries of the Gobal South and share their perspectives and priorities on @ common platform across a whole range of issues. «This initiative is inspired by PM Modi vision of Sabka Saath, Sabha Vikas, Sabka Vishwas Aur Sabka Prayas and India’s principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. source: Newsenar ee ey [ee eee ee Corwww. byjusexamprep.com Pees nee eer ns BYJU'S ]exAM Peer Se ear kere rere) Prepare for Boo: Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh has released the theme of National Science Day 2023. Theme 2023: Global Science for Global Wellbeing The theme has been selected for the purpose of rai issues in a global context which is having a appreciation of scientif bearing on global Well-being 19 public National Science Day is celebrated every year on the 28th February to celebrate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Indian Physicist Sir C V Raman. Sir CV Raman Biography 4. © V Raman was born on 7 November 1888 in Tiruchirapalli in modern Tamil Nadu. 2 His parents were R Chandrasekhara lyer and Parvati Amma. His father was a lecturer of Physics ‘and Mathematics at a college in Visakhapatnam. So, from an early age, Raman was exposed to nce. He was a brilliant student and joined the Presidency College at Chennai in 1902 aged just 13 for his graduation. He passed out in 1904 with @ Gold Medal in Physics. He completed his post-graduation from the University of Madras in 1907 with distinction, At his father’s behest, Raman took the Financial Civil Service and aced the exam. He joined the Indian Finance Department as Assistance Accountant General in Calcutt: Even though employed in the civil services, Raman's heart was with science. He continued to do research at the Indian Association for Cultivation of Sciences in Calcutta (ACS) whenever he got time. He also published papers in leading international journals such as ‘Nature’ and ‘Physics Review’. In 1917, he resigned from his government job and pursued his true calling when he was OWN ee a eta een ee eet Cg 10. 1. offered the Palit Chair of Physics at Calcutta University. He continued his research at the IACS at this time. His research was on acoustics and optics. It vas at IACS that Raman along with his collaborators discovered what is now called the ‘Raman Effect’. This discovery on the scattering of light was made on February 28, 1928. This effect proved the quantum nature of light and had huge value at that time. The Raman Spectroscopy was based on this phenomenon. Consequently, February 28 is celebrated as National Science Day in India since 1987 annually discovery. in honour of this For this discovery, Raman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in the year 1930, The Nobel Committee stated that the award was given “for his work on the scattering of light and for the discovery of the effect named after him”. He was the first Indian, Asian and non-white person to win a Nobel Prize for the sciences, In 1933, he became the first Indian Director of the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) in Bangalore. He was the institute's director till 1937 and the Head of the Physics Department till 1948.win byjusexamorep.com eos 42. In 1948, he founded the Raman Research 43. Raman died of natural causes on 21 Institute (RRI) in Bangalore for conducting November 1970 aged 82 in Bangalore. experiments in Physics. He continued to do research at RRItill his death in 1970. Citar nok ee ee ee ed + The National Health Authority (NHA) has introduced a new system to measure and grade hospital performance under the Ayushman Bharat z& feeien Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY) ee. © Aim: To shift the focus of measuring the performance of hospitals from the volume of services provided to the value of healthcare services, + The Health Ministry announced that the new model with the reward system will consequently reduce the effects of the disease in the population in the long term. + The step promises significant increase in the overall health gains and is expected to be a winewin for all concerned stakeholders from patients to healthcare providers, payers and suppliers. While the patients will get better health outcomes and higher satisfaction out of the services they receive, providers stand to get better care efficiencies. Under value-based care, the performance of AB PM-JAY empanelied hospitals will be measured based on five performance indicators such as: © 1, Beneficiary Satisfaction; © 2. Hospital Readmission R: © 3. The extent of Out-of-Pocket Expendi © 4.Confirmed Grievances and © 5. Improvement in-patient's Health-Related Quality of Life. source-PIB Carrere + Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan has cieclared Kerala as the first state fully digital in its banking service. the country to go + It was possible due to social interventions through local self-government institutions along with infrastructure development and technological advances in the banking sector. + He has also announced that the ambitious Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) project of the state government will reduce the digital divide, + In 2024, Thrissur became the first district in Kerala to implement digital banking under the scheme, Kerala Fiber Optic Network (KFON): + Announced in 2019, the initiative envisages a total of 35,000 kilometre (km) of optical fibre network across 14 districts. Coe Oe Ca oa [ee eee ee Corwww byjusexamprep.com wmsyus Currently, 30,000 km of optical fibre cable (OFC) has been laid, while 375 points of presence (PoP) have been installed across the state. In addition, the project has so far connected 5,000 government offices and 25,000 government institutions to the total network. KFON aims to create a core network infrastructure to provide free internet access to 20 Lakh economically-backward households. The project also aims to connect all government offices, educational institutions, hospitals and partner with telecom service providers to augment their connectivity gap. ‘Seurce:TheFrs Pitan note first 3x platform wind turbine generators + ReNew Power has installed India’s first 3x platform wind turbine generators (WTGs) in Gadag, Karnataka. + The WTGs have a nameplate capacity of 3.3-3.465 MW and are 128-140m in height. + Aim: To improve capacity over models installed in India, which typically have a nomeplate capacity of 2-3 MW. This project will produce enough energy to power over 1 million households in India annually. Chairman and CEO, ReNew Power: Sumant Sinha CEO Sinha said renewable energy can enable Indian companies to expand in a pollution-free manner. “This installation brings us one step closer to our goal of fueling India’s economic growth by accelerating the clean energy transition.” The team was led by a specialized Wind Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) team. With their help, ReNew Power has installed over 400MW of WTGs at various sites in Karnataka and Gujarat. “These installations, together with the new WTGs, will enable ReNew to complete its overall portfolio of 13.4 GW. Additionally, 1500 MW of wind power projects are under construction in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, planned for FY23 The installation of 3x platform wind turbine generators is also planned for other sites, The new WTG will be part of the country’s first ‘round the clock’ renewable energy project, a combination of wind, solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS). Sourcernewebhorotimee 19. Centre renamed Integrated Food Security Scheme The government of India has named the new Integrated Food Security ‘Scheme as Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY). Prior to this, the Union Cabinet had approved this scheme for providing free food grains to Antodaya Ann Yojna (AAY) and Primary Household (PHH) beneficiaries. This scheme came into effect on 1st January 2023. ee Oe Eat eraswww byjusexamprep.com wmsyus Under PMGKAY, free foodgrains will be provides to all PHH and AAY beneficiaries, as per entitlement under National Food Security Act. PMGKAY is a part of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP) to help the poor fight the battle against Covid-19. The scheme aimed at providing each person who is covered under the National Food Security Act 2013 with an additional 5 kg grains (wheat or rice) for free, in addition to the 5 kg of subsidised foodgrain already provided through the Public Distribution System (PDS). Itwas initially announced for a three-month period (April, Mayand June 2020), covering 80 crore ration cardholders. Later it was extended till September 2022 and now till 2023 end. Its nodal Ministry is the Ministry of Finance. ‘Source: Newsenai PETES kee eee Rote er et ed + The Indian High Commission has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a Hindi Chair at Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. + The MoU was signed between Gopal Baglay (High Commissioner) and Prof. Udaya Rathnayake (Vice Chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University), = + Aim: To help in familiarizing students with India, its history, and culture as well as pave way for popularising Hindi by deputing indian faculties. Source: Neweenor PMReo ei ini er eubete ny Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 26th National Youth Festival, orcanized in Hubbal Karnataka from 12th -16th January 2023 Bot aie sk This festival is held every year to provide exposure to our talented youth at the national level It is being held on National Youth Day (12th January), which is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. ‘Theme of this event: “Viksit Yuva - Viksit Bharat” The event also included folk dances and songs. Source: Newsonar 22. PM Modi launches World's Longest River Cruise-MV Ganga Vilas at Varanasi PM Narendra Modi launciied the World’s Longest River Cruise-MV Ganga Vilas at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh via video conferencing on 13th Jan 2023. He has also inaugurated Tent City at Varanasi.www byjusexamprep.com wmsyus * About Cruise: ct will begin its journey from Varanasi to Dibrugarh in Assam via Bangladesh. wut > semetaen oon uszaee | It will sail around 3,200 km in 51 days. ew Sree, clt will cover major cities of India and Bangladesh - ferme ev EON rt fer tae” feat eegertne scorn fern ed sis) ae Patna (Bihar), Sahib Ganj (Jharkhand), Kolkata (WB), Dhaka (Bangladesh), and Guwahati (Assam). + Mr Modi also inaugurate the Tent city at Varanasi which has been conceptualised on the banks of River Ganga opposite to city ghats which will provide accommodation faciities and cater to the increased tourists influx in Varanasi, especially since the incuguration of Kashi Vishwanath Dham. The tourists will reach the Tent City by boats from different Ghats situated in the vicinity. ‘Seurce: Mowsenair EMia teens beers eerie + Former Union Minister, Sharad Yadav has passed away at the age of 75 in Gurugram, Haryana. = He had started his political career during the anti-emergency movement of the mid-1970s. ‘| Hewas first elected to the Lok Sabha at the age of 27 in 1974. + Hewas elected from Uttar Pradesh’s Badaun parliamentary seat in 1983. + Hewas also elected from Bihar’s Madhepura Lok Sabha constituency in 1991, 1996, 1999, and 2009. + He had launched his own party Loktantrik Janata Dal. Peer ee eed + PM Modi announced the “Aarogya Maitri” project during the Voice of Global D 4, South Summit + Through this project, the country will provide essential medical supplies to any a | developing country affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises. + He also proposed setting up a ‘centre of excellence’ to facilitate development solutions to these countries ‘+ Also, india will launch the Global South Science and Technology Initiative to share its expertise In space technology.Eeuaveucs mews Pirate Pero tore PM Modi flagged off the Vande Bharat Express train that connects Secunderabad (Telangana) with Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) on 15th January 2023. ~ As per the Railway officials, it will cover a distance of around 700 km in 8 hours and 30 minutes. It is the eighth Vande Bharat Express to be introduced by Indian Railways. The first Vande Bharat train was launched in 2019, between New Delhi and Varanasi. It will enhance the ease of living, and benefit the economy. The first Vande Bharat Express train was flagged off on February 15, 2019, on the New Delhi- Kanpur-Allahabad-Varanasi route. (On January 15, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the eighth Vande Bharat Express train connecting Secunderabad (Telangana) and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). Union Budget 2022: 400 Vande Bharat Trains in three years In the Union Budget 2022-23, Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced that four hundred new-generation Vande Bharat Trains with better energy efficiency and passenger riding experience will be developed and manufactured during the next three years. The Vande Bharat Express can run up to a maximum speed of 160 kmph and has travel classes like Shatabdi Train but with better facilities. It aims to provide a totally new travel experience to passengers Speed, Safety and Service are the hallmarks of this trai Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, a Railways Production unit, has been the force behind a completely inhouse design and manufacture, computer modelling and working with a large number of suppliers for system integration in just 18 months. Currently, the eight Vande Bharat Express Trains 5. Mysuru - Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGR are running on the following routes: Chennai Central 4. New Delhi- Shri Vaishno Devi Mata, Katra 6. Nagpur, Maharashtra. - _ Bilaspur, 2. New Delhi- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Chhattisgarh 3. Gandhinagar Capital - Ahmedabad - #: Howrah = New Jalpelgut, Wast Bengal Mumbai Central 8. Secunderabad, Telangana - 4: (Ain Andaira= New Dent Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh source Pid Earth Sciences Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that India will be covered by Doppler Weather Radar Network by 2025, at the 148th Foundation Day of the Indian Meteorological Department. Aim: To predict extreme weather events more accurately Itwill enhance weather monitoring capabilities and benefit the farmers to contribute significantly to the economy, ee Oe Eat eraswww byjusexamprep.com wmsyus «IMD has taken proactive steps to increase the Radar Network from a mere 15 in 2013 to 37 in 2023. About India Meteorological Department (IMD): Government. The IMD is headquartered in New Delhi. + Formed in 1875, the India Meteorological ee Department (IMD) is the national Regional offices are at Chennai, Mumbai, meteorological service of the country, and it Kolkata, Nagpur, Guwahati and New Delhi. is the chief government agency dealing in everything related to meteorology, seismology, and associated subjects. * IMD is also one of the six Regional Specialised Meteorological Centres of the World Meteorological Organisation. + The administrative responsibilities of the Department are under the supervision of the Ministry of Earth Sciences of the Indian ‘+ Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra is the Director General of Meteorology and head of IMD. Source: Newsona 22. The first G20 Health Working Group Meeting begins in Thiruvananthapuram = sThe first G20 Health Working Group meeting has started at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It was attended by Bharati Pravin Pawar (MoS Health and Family Welfare) and \V. Muraleedharan (MoS External Affairs). sFocus: Health emergencies prevention, preparedness and response; strengthening cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector; and digital health innovations to aid universal health coverage © Other locations of HWG meetings: Goa, Hyderabad, and Gandhinagar source: Newson Paver ener eee of Saansad Khel Mahakumbh Sara + Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second phase of "RE N™S"y "WRLC FT Saansad Khel Mahakumbh 2022-23 in Basti District of Uttar Pradesh a via video conferencing. + Itorgenizes diverse competitions in both indoor and outdoor sports. ‘+ Apart from these, competitions in essay writing, painting, rangoli making will also be organized. + This event is being organized in two phases. «Basti district is a Lok Sabha Constituency of Harish Dwivedi. Background: «The first phase of the Khel Mahakumbh was organised from 10th to 16th December 2022 and the second phase of the Khel Mahakumbh is scheduled from 18th to 28th January 2023. + The Khel Mahakumbh organises various competitions in both indoor and outdoor sports like wrestling, kabaddi, kho kho, basketball, football, hockey, volleyball, handball, chess, carrom, badminton, table tennis etc. Apart from these, competitions in essay writing, painting, rangoli making etc are also organised during the Khel Mahakumbh. ee Oe Eat eraswww byjusexamprep.com wmsyus The Khel Mahakumbh is 2 novel initiative that provides an opportunity and a platform for the youth of District Basti and neighbouring areas to showcase their sporting talent, and motivates them to take sport as a career option. It also endeavours to inculcate the spirit of discipline, teamwork, healthy ition, self-confidence and nationalism among the youth of the region. 29. Rdani, Ashok Leyland to develop Asia's first hydrogen-mining truck _ | *Adani Enterprises, Ashok Leyland, and Ballard Power have signed a deal to Adani | develop Asia's first hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Truck (FCET) for mining logistics and transportation. + The FCET is scheduled to be launched in Indi + The demonstration project will be led by Adani Enterprises Limited. in 2023. + Ballard will supply the FCmoveTM fuel cell engine for the hydrogen truck Ashok Leyland will provide the vehicle platform and technical support. eure: Newsonar 30. G20's Environment and Climate Sustainability Meet to be held in Feb + First Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group Meeting of G20 sii will be held from 9th to fith Feb in Kalkere Arboretum and Bannerghatia | gait! “a, Biological Park, Bengaluru . i, + Aim: Promotion of the blue economy along with coastal sustainability, —~ Coy restoration of degraded lands and ecosystems, enhancement of biodiversity = ond circular economy Conference focused on Master Pianning and Building the National Capacity for species Management & Conservation Breeding. + The delegates are scheduled to visit the Kalkere Arboretum and Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru. They will have an opportunity to visualize and experience four predominant forest ecosystems of Kamataka, The State Forest Department will also showcase the forest restoration models adopted in these ecosystems and the successful revival of faunal biodiversity. + The Bannerghatta Biological Park will showcase the state-of art butterfly park and animal safaris to the delegates. The Karnataka Forest Department will also highlight the flagship ecotourism model, the Jungle Lodges Resort, which is extremely popular among nature lovers. ‘Seurce: Newaonair Prt eae eae haere + On Parakram Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a ceremony to name 21 largest unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. + The isiands were named after the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees. ‘+ During the program, Modi also inaugurated 2 model of a memorial dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose virtually in Andaman to commemorate the freedom fighter's 126th birth anniversary.wwew.byjusexamprep.com mews The model of the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji, to be constructed on Netaji Subhas (Chandra Bose Dweep (earlior known as Ross Islands). The event was attended by Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief of Defence Staff General, Anil Chauhan. * Param Vir Chakra awardees: Islands Name 1. Major Somnath Sharma ‘Somnath Island 2 ag ‘Colonel (then Major) Dhan Singly 14.5, ‘Singh Istand 8, Subedar Joginder Singh Joginder Island %. lajor Shaitan Singh shaitan Singh Island a "QMH. Abdul Hamid Hamid Island. 12 [Lance Naik Albert Ekka Ekka Island 2 ES ae See” CPP] Smt nd About Andaman and Nicobar Islands: noe The Andaman group of island and Nicobar is in the south. They are Andaman and Nicobar islands consist of about 572 islands/islets. These are situated roughly between 6°N — 14°N (latitude) and 92°E — 94°E (longitude). The two principal groups of islets include Ritchie's archipelago and Labrynth island. inthe north een nea eee eo ene Cena separated bya water body which is called the Ten Degree Channel {10° latitude passes between the Andaman and Nicobar groups of islands). It is believed that these islands are an elevated portion of submarine mountains. Barren Island in Nicobar is the only active volcano in Indiwww.byjusexamprep.com The coastline of these islands has some coral Ceposits and are known for beautiful beaches. These islands receive conventional rainfall and have an equatorial type of vegetation. There is a great diversity of flora and fauna in this group ofisiands. ‘Some of the important mountain peaks in the Andaman and Nicobar islands are Saddle peak (North Andaman — 732m), Mount Diavolo (Middle Andaman — 515m), Mount 32. NTPC Group capacity crosses 71GW mys Koyob (South Andaman ~ 460m) and Mount Thuiller (Great Nicobar - 642m). Capital city: Port Blair Total islands: 572 Area: 6,408 km2 (2,474 sq mi) Highest elevation: 732 m (2402 ft) Highest point: Saddle Peak ‘Seance: ThePint NTPC (India's largest power generator) Group capacity has crossed 71 GW with the successful completion of the trial operation of the first unit * conn of 660 MW North Karanpura Super Thermal Power Project, Jharkhand (3x660 MW). Impact It will provice affordable power to Jharkhand, Bihar, WB, and Odisha. With this addition, the total installed capacity of NTPC has become 71544 MW. The foundation for this NTPC project in Jharkhand was laid by the former PM, Atal Bihari Vajpaye About NTPC: NTPC is India’s largest power utility with an installed capacity of 71594 MW (including JVs), plans to become a 130 GW company by 2032. Established in 1975, NTPC aims to be the world’s largest and best power major. NTPC is India’s largest energy conglomerate with roots planted way back in 1975 to accelerate power development in India. Since then it has established itself as the dominant power major with presence in the entire value chain of the power generation business, From fossil fuels it has forayed into generating electricity via hydro, nuclear and renewable energy sources. This foray will play a major role in lowering its carbon footprint by reducing green house gas emissions, To strengthen its core business, the corporation has diversified into the fields of consutancy, power trading, training of power professionals, rural electrification, ash utilisation and coal mining as well. NTPC became a Maharatna company in May 2010. As of January 2020, there are 10 Maharatnas CPSEs in India, NTPC is ranked No. 2 Independent Power Producer (IPP) in Platts Top 250 Global Energy Company rankings. Gurdeep Singh (Chairman & MD) at Vigyan Bhawan. President, Droupadi Murmu has conferred the Puraskar (PMRBP) 2023 to 11 exceptional children in an award ceremony held adhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal The awards are conferred upon children in the age group 5 ~ 18 years.www byjusexamprep.com wmsyus + This awards given in six categories - Art & Culture, Bravery, Innovation, Scholastic, Social Service, and Sports. + Each awardee of PMRBPis given a medal, a cash prize of Rs.1 Lakh and a Certificate. Source Thebes Har Ghar Nal Se Jal drive will be completed by 2024 + National Centre for Good Governance DG, Bharat Lal has addressed a Conference on “Water Security for high Economic Growth and Prosperity at 14th South Asia Conference on Think20@G20, New Delhi. + The “Har Ghar Nal Se Jal” drive under Jal Jeevan Mission will be completed by 2024. + Itis being implemented in a unique bottom-up and decentralized approach by mobilizing Village Weter and Sanitation Committees to manage the village water supply infrastructure. Jal Jeevan Mission: © The Jal Jeevan Mission will be based on a + Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is envisioned to community approach to water and will privide. safe. and adequate dunking weler include extensive Information, Education, and through individual household tap Communication as a key component of the connections by 2024 to all households in mission. JJM looks to create a Jan Andolan rural India. for water, thereby making it everyone's priority * Further, the Har Ghar Nal Se Jal programme was announced by Finance Minister in Budget 2019-20. It forms a crucial part of the Jal Jeevan Mission. + The program will also implement source sustainability meesures as mandatory elements, such as recharge and reuse through greywater management, water conservation, and rainwater harvesting, Source: Newsooat 35. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled world’s first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine + Union Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has unveiled the world's first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine "iINNCOVACC" in New Delhi. «It is developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) in collaboration with Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance. According to the statement of the ministry, the intranasal COVID-19 vaccine is to receive approval for the primary 2-dose schedule and as a heterologous booster dose. Souce: Newsonar 36. 3* INTERPOL Young Global Police Leaders Programme held in New Delhi + The 3" INTERPOL Young Global Police Leaders Programme (YGPLP) is being organized from 25 January to 2 February 2023 in New Delhi, India. « It was virtually addressed by INTERPOL Secretary General, Jurgen Stock. + The event was organized by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). ee Oe Eat eraswww.byjusexamprep.com © CBIDi INTERPOL Headquarters: Lyon, France INTERPOL President: Ahmed Naser AFRaisi .ctor: Subodh Kumar Jaiswal About INTERPOL: «Interpol is the world’s largest international police organization. + Established in 1923, it enables cross-border police cooperation and supportsand assists all organisations, authorities and services whose mission is to prevent or combat mswus As many as 59 participants from 44 counties participate in the programme. Interpol has an objective to facilitate nal police cooperation even between certain countries. Action is taken within the limits of existing laws in different countries and in the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human international crim Interpol Notices Rights. Interpol’s constitution prohibits ‘any intervention or activities of a political, ilitary, religious or racial character.” INTERPOL Notices are international requests for cooperation or alerts allowing police in member countries to share critical crime-related information. ei aed Notice To seek the location/arrest of a person wanted by a judicial jurisciction or an intemational tribunal with a view to his/her extradition. ‘5 To war about a person’s criminal activities if that person is considered to be a Green Notice possible threat to public safety. Bie Nee To locate, identify or obtain information on a person of interest in a criminal investigation. Yellow Notice To locate a missing person or to identity a person unable to identify himselt/hersetf. Black Notice To seek information on unidentified bodies. OrangalNstibe’ To wam of an event, a person, an object or a process representing an imminent threat and danger to persons or property. Purple Notice To provide information on modus operandi, procedures, objects, devices. or hiding places used by criminals. Interpol — UNSC. Toi ir individual ity i i: Special Notice 0 inform Interpol’s members that an individual or an entity is subject to UN sanctions. Surce NeWea Beta eocto eee aes + HM Amit Shab has laid the foundation stone for a National Forensic Si Ebi aes y nces University at the premises of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad in Karnataka. «Aim: it will help to create expert manpower for the country to combat crime and result in the prosecution of criminals.www byjusexamprep.com wmsyus + He.was also part of a road show in Dharwad and addressed a public rally in Belagavi district. + He had a darshan of Ged Shambulingeshwara and visit Sri Basavanna Devara mutt in Dharwad. aac hm Cee ele + Asia's second and country's first cable suspension bridge "Bajrang Setu” is being constructed at Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, and will be completed by July 2023. This bridge Is coming up next to the famous 90-year-old Laxman Jnula. + Laxman Jhula was closed in 2022 when it was found that it wasn't safe for pedestrians anymore. «However, it will not be removed and will be preserved as a heritage. ‘+ The construction of the new bridge would cost Rs 67 crores. Scere Neweenar FEU ace ker eee ket ey ‘+ India and South Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce 12 African Cheetahs annually over the next eight to ten year. + An initial batch of 12 cheetahs will be flown from South Africa to India in February 2023. + The cats will join eight Cheetah brought to India from Nam Madhya Pradesh. ia in 2022 at Kuno National Park, «Aim: To reintroduce cheetah to a former range state is being carried out following the local extinction of this iconic species due to overhunting and loss of habitat. ‘eure: Noweenair Crete eer The iconic Mughal Gardens in Rashtrapati Bhavan has been renamed as the Amrit Udyan. ‘* It would be open to the public from 31st January to 26 March 2023. ‘This decision is said to be part of the government of India’s ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’. + The cluster of about 15 gardens will collectively be known as Amrit Udyan. + Individual gardens wit Spiritual Garden - the sprawling Presidential Estate - Herbal Garden, Musical Garden, and ‘souve Torwww.byjusexamprep.com INTERNATIONAL NEW Eeyore Tia eee ee es mews + Accortling to the MEA, India will take chairmanship of the Wassenaar Arrangement for a year on January 1, 2023. + Atthe 26th annual plenary of the Wassenaar Arrangement held in Vienna from Noy 30- Dec 1, 2022, Eoin O'Leary (Ireland's ambassador) has handed over the chairmanship to Jaideep Mazumdar (India’s ambassador). ma + Jaideep Mazumdar is the permanent representative to the UN and international organisations in Vienna. «India was inducted to the Wassenaar Arrangement on 7 December, 2017 as the 42nd member. Wassenaar Members Arrangement: Its Objectives & The Wassenaar Arrangement was established in the year 1996. The founding document of the Wassenaar Arrangement is also known as Initial Elements. Certain important elements that contribute to the Wassenaar Arrangement’s Approach include: 4. Control Lists 2. Procedures for the General Exchange Information 3. Procedures for the exchange of Information of arms 4, Meetings and administration Participation 6. Procedures for the Exchange of Information on DuatUse Goods and Technology and confidentiality. The Wassenaar Arrangement was introduced keeping in mind certain objectives. Given below are the objectives of the Wassenaar Arrangement 1. Itcontributes to the National and International security and stability 2. It controls export in orderto combat terrorism 3. It promotes transparency in the transfer of conventionalarmsand duakuse technologies and equipment 4. Reinforces the export control regimes for the delivery of weapons of mass destruction 5. It is not directed to any State or group of states The Wassenaar Arrangement Plenaty is the decision making body of the Arrengement. * It Is composed of representatives of all Participating States and normally meets once a year, usually in December. + The position of Plenary Chair is subject to annual rotation among the Participating States. + In 2018 the Plenary Chair was held by the United Kingdom, and in 2019 the Chairis held by Greece. © From 1 January 2021, Hungary will assume the Chair of the Plenary, the United States will assume the Chair of the General Working Group, Malta will assume the Chair of the Experts Group, and Italy will continue to provide the Chair of the Licensing and Enforcement Officers Meeting, + The next regular WA Plenary meeting is scheduled to take place in Vienna in December 2021. * All Plenary decisions are taken by consensus. Apart from the Wassenaar Arrangement, there are responsible for the other intemational bodiesBYJU'S: exam eer management, export and transfer of nuclear, 2. Missile Technology Control Regime (TCR) chemical and biological weapons, equipment and 3. Australia Group technolagies: 4. Nuclear Suppliors Group (NSG) 1. Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) There are 42 members in the Wassenaar Arrangement, and given below Is the list of members of the Arrangement: Den er een card ‘Argentina Australia | Austria | Belgium Bulgaria Canada Croatia Czech Republic Denmark | Estonia | Finland | France Germany Greece | Hungary | India Ireland | Italy T Japan T Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta i Mexico Netherlands: | New Zealand i Norway | Poland Portugal {epublic of Korea, Yomania Jussian Federation Portugal Republic of K Ri Russian Fed | Spain = Sweden Switzerland | Ueraine United Kingdom | United States Other Export Control Regimes are + The Nuclear Supplicrs Group (NSG), for the control of nuclear related technology. India is not amember of the NSG because all its efforts were consistently blocked by China and some other members. «The Australia Group (AG) for control of chemical and biological technology that could be weaponized India joined the Australia Group (AG] on 19 January 2018, The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) for the control of rackets and other aerial vehicles capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction. India was inducted into the Missile Technology Control Regime in 2016 as the 35th member. Sourceiindustan Tes 2. Croatia adopts euro, entered borderless Europe club * Croatia has adopted the euro as its currency with effect from 1 January 2023 and become the 20th member of the eurozone. _ » Croatia has entered the EU in 2013. . + It becomes the 27th country to join the Schengen area. * Adopting the eure will make travelling and doing business easier, removing the hassle of currency exchange for Croats going abroad.BYJU'S www. byjusexamprep.com Al PREP © Croatia joined the European Union in 2013, but to adopt the Euro it had to fulfil a set of strict economic conditions (having a stable exchange rate, controlling inflation and sound public spending). + Schengen Area: It is an area that comprises 27 European countries that have abolished all passports and border control at their respective mutual borders + Eurozone: tis officially called the euro area. +The monetary authority of the Eurozone is the Eurosystem. source: Afeeera List Of The First Woman In Indian Arm Forces rere eas “| First Woman Air Marshal of Indian Air Force (IAF) Padma Bandopadhyay © First Woman Lieutenant General of Indian Army (LG) Punita Arora © First indian Woman to Fly Solo in the indian Air Force Harita Kaur Deo! | 4 | First Woman Fighter Pilot Mohana Singh Ys | First Woman to Join Indian Army Priya Jhingan i i i Punita Arora First Woman in Indian Army to receive the coveted ‘Sword Of bys en Kumar Honour First Woman Major-General in the indian Army Gertrude Alice Ram First Woman Adjutant for India’s Republic Day Parade Captain Tania Shergill First Woman Officer in India to receive a Gallantry Award Major Mitall Madhumita <{) First indian Woman to fly MiG-24 Aircraft Alone Avani Chaturvedi 7) The First Woman to Summit the Mt.Everest Nivedita Choudhary © First Female in the Indian Army to Beataller Male CoCadets 6. tiagg in Physical Fitness Tests First Women Pilots to Fly into the Combat Zone During the Gunjan Saxena and Srividya Kargil Wer 1999 Rajanwww. byjusexamprep.com First Woman Officer to Receive the Prestigious ‘Sena Medal’ First Female Operational Paratrooper in the Indian Army First Women Fighter Pilots Marking International Women’s Day on8 March 2020 First Woman in the Indian Air Force, given a Permanent Commission First Woman to receive the ‘Yudh Seva Medal’ First Woman to Attain the Rank of Commander in the Indian Navy First Female Vice-Admiral First Woman Sailor from Northeast India 5 India's First Woman Commando Trainer who is also known as “India’s Wonder Woman” First Woman Commandant in the Para 3. Indi Be Tee eae re eee APPU 238 Etec + India took charge of the Asian Pacific Postal Union (APPU) in Bangkok, Thailand from January 2023. ‘© Dr. Vinaya Prakash Singh has taken over Pacific Postal Union BYJU'S Ai PREP Mitali Madhumita Captain Ruchi Sharma Bhawana Kanth, Avani Chaturvedi, and Mohana Singh Jitarwal Wing Commander Shaliza Dhami ‘Squadron Leeder Minty ‘Agarwal Dr. Barbara Ghosh Dr. Punita Arora Lieutenant S Vijaya Devi Dr. Seema Rao Asha Sinha ett inte. the future the charge of Secretary General of the Union for a tenure of four years. «The APPU is an intergovernmental organization of 32-member countries of the Asian-Pacific region. + Aim of APPU: To extend, facilitate and improve postal relations between member countries and to promote cooperation in the field of postal services. + Asian Pacific Postal Union (APPU) having its Headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand. About APPU: + Asian Pacific Posial Union (APPU)is an intergovernmental organization of 32-member countries of the Asian-Pacific region. APPU is the only Restricted Union of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in the region, which is @ specialized agency of the United Nations. ‘* The goal of APPU is to extend, facilitate and improve postal relations between member countries and to promote cooperation in the field of postal services,www. byjusexamprep.com BYJU'S exam eer «As the regional center for various UPU projects, APPU also takes the lead in ensuring that all technical and operational projects of the UPU are fulfilled in the region so that the region is integrated into the global postal network in the best possible way. + Secretary General leads the activities of the Union and is also the Director of the Asian Pacific Postal College (APPC} which is the largest intergovernmental postal training institute in the region. Source’ 8 4. Dell Kempegowda Bengaluru among 10 best-performing airports globally * According to aviation International International Airport were among the top 10 on-time airports globally. analytics firm Cirlum, Bengaluru's Airport and Delhi's Indira Gandhi + Bengaluru's airport was the seconc-best airport globally in 2022 in terms of on-time arrivals and departures. » While, Japan's Haneda Airport was the best-performing airport. ‘Indira Gandhi Airport stood 7th in the omtime rankings globally Top 10 Rankings for best performing global airports of 2022 4. Tokyo, Japan ~ (HND) Haneda Airport 2. Bengaluru, (BLR) Kempegowda International Airport India = 3. Salt Lake City, USA — (SLC) Salt Lake City International Airport 4, Detroit, USA - (DTW) Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport 5. Philadelphia, USA - International Airport (PHL) Philadelphia About Cirium: The Cirium story began in 1909, with Flight Magazine. Since then, we have added multiple partners and brands to our portfolio including FlightStats, Diio, Innovata and Snowflake Software, building on our 114 years of aviation experience. © Cirlum is the industry leader in aviation analytics; helping the aviation industry understand the past, present and predicting what will happen tomorrow in air travel, 6. USA ~ (MSP) Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport 7. Dethi, India - (DEL) Indira Gandhi International Airport 8. Seattle, USA - (SEA) SeattleTacoma International Airport 9. Bogoté, Colombia - (BOG) EI Dorado International Airport 40. North Carolina, USA — (CLT) Charlotte Douglas International Airport Cirium’s mission is to transform the industry. by enabling airlines, airports, _ travel companies, tech giants, — aircraft manufacturers, financial institutions and many, many more to accelerate their own digital transformation and help build a more efficient and sustainable future. * Jeremy Bowenis the CEO of Cirium Source Nesonor