Rigorous / Indepth analysis of High Intensity National / International Topics . int ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, 2023 > 13 edition of ICC Mess ODI cricket World Cup has organized in India between October 5 to November 19, 2023. % Australia won this world cup by beating India by 6 wickets in the final match held on November 19, 2023. > Ten cities of India ic. Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamshala, “ Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai and Pune, have hosted the tournament. "> India has hosted the event fourth time, 1987 edition was hosted by India and Pakistan, 1996 edition by India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka while 2011 edition by India, Sri-Lanka and Bangladesh. % This is first time that Entire inatches of an ODI World Cup hosted in India. Previous Winners ‘Australia — 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007 & 2015, India — 1983 and 2011, West Indies — 1975 and 1979 England — 2019 Srilanka - . 1996 Pakistan — 1992 > 2023 edition set all-time tournament attendance record. The tournament attracted 1.25 million (1250307) spectators, according to ICC. > The 13* edition also broke multiple broadcast and digital viewership tecords. Prize Money > An overall 10 million US Dollars (@83 crore rupees) has been announced for the tourrament. > The winner of the tournament has taken home 4 million dollars (~33 crore rupees) while runner “up won? million dollars. 1 ‘Teams will also called 40000 US dollas after ‘every group stage win. O Mascots > ‘Blaze’ and ‘Tank’ were 2 Mascots for the 2023 cricket world cup. Blaze is a female mascot, bowling at rapid pace while Tonk is a male mascot, a batting champion. > Theme Song : Dil Jashn Bole ‘™» ICC Global Ambassador for Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 : Sachin Tendulkar Oi Teams and Tournament % Ten teams ie. India, Australia, South Aftica, ‘New Zealand, Pakistan, Afghanistan, England, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Netherlands have participated in the tournament. The 10 teams at 2023 world cup played every other side one in a single round robin format, with top four teams going on to the semifinals. India ‘was, the“only team to won her-all the 9 matches of group league stage. > India, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand have qualified for the semifinals. ‘> In first semifinal India beat New Zealanid by 70 runs. % In-second semifinal Australia. beat South Africa by 3 wickets. J Final Match % Narendra Modi’ Stadium, Ahmedabad, the largest cricket stadium in the world, has hosted the final match on November 19, 2023. 2 Winner — Australia (Record 6° title) > Runner-up ~ India > Australia has lifted the world cup second time on Indian soil after 1987 edition. 1.2023 World Cup : Magic Moments Virat Kohli : 50 century > In semifinal match against New Zealand, Virat Kohli has shatteted Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds (49).Glen Maxwell: Fury inning ; Sa Fury inning ">. Maxwell played brave inning of 201* runs of 128 balls with help of 21 fours and 10 sixes. "> He has become the first ODI batter to score @ double hundred in chase. "> Maxwell hits century in ODI World Cup 2023 in just 40 balls (Fastest hundred), by breaking record Of Aiden Markram (49 balls). Anglo Mathew : Timed Out % Sri Lanka Angelo Mathews has earned an unwanted record in a league match against Bangladesh. ia * | He has become the fitst batsman to be time out in international cricket. * ForT20Is threshold limit of 90 seconds remains unchanged. % Failing to do so, the fielding captain can appeal for timed out. > The bowler does not get credit for the wicket, > Ic is a slight deviation from MCC’: definition for international matches, MCC provide three fninutes to batsman after fall of a wicket or a retirement. G Stars of the Tournaments Virat Kohli (Player of the Tournament) > Virat Kohii’s splendid campaign in 2023 made him most run scorer in a single edition of the world cup. Sachin Tendulkar had scored 673 runs in the 2003 edition and held the top spot for 20 years: % Virat Kohli has scored 765 runs with help of 3 centuries and 6 half centuries in 11 innings of 2023 world cup. % He has awarded'with ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 player of the Tournament award, "> He has become third Indian player to won this coveted award, Earlier, Sachin Tendulkar had’ won it in, 2003 and Yuvraj Singh in 2011 edition: Travis Head) > Travis Head, of Australia became’ the fourth player to ijudged as ‘Player of the Match’ in the semifinal and fifal of the Sime ODI ++ world cup. ® Mohinder Amarnath (India) was the first player to achieve the feat in 1983: (Gri Lanka)if 1996 ang is Silva yshriodles ‘ne in 1999 followed him, ‘Australia’s Shane War Rohit Sharma & Rohit Sharma as scored most runs a8 Captain ina single edition of world ©BP. % He scored 597 runs (in 11, matches) in 2023 > postoesy this record was in name of New Zealand's captain Kane Williamson who scored 578 runs in 2019 edition, ‘ Rohit Sharma has become first batsman’ to score more than 500 runs in successive ODI ‘world cups, In 2019 edition, he scored 648 runs. He has shattered the record of Chris Gayle for most sixes (49) in ODI world cups. Rohit smashed 54 sixes across three ODI world cups between 2015-2023. ® He also broke record of Chris Gayle for most sixes G1 sixes) in a single edition of ODI woeld cup, Rohit smashed 31 sixes in 2023 world, cup. In 2015 edition Chis Gayle had hit 26 sixes. % Rohit Shama also" surpassed David Warner, (Australia) and-Indian legend Sachin Tendular to scored most centaties in ODI world cup. % Rohit ‘Sharma has scored 7 centuries across three world cups between 2015-23. Mohammed Shami ® Mohammed Shami has taken most wickets (24) (in only 7 matches) in 2025 cricket world cup- % He has become all time highest wicket taker for India in ODI cricket world cup. Shami has taken 55' wickets (in 18 matches) across three ODI world cups between 2015-23, surpassed Zaheer Khan (44 wickets) and Javagal Srinath (44 wickets). * Shami has become first bowler to pick fout five- wicket hauls in ODI world cup across all ODI word cup tournament, % Shami also become the first to get thee five- wickets hauls in single world cup edition. % Shami picked 7 wickets for 57 rtins in semifinal match of 2023 world cup. This is best bowling figures by an Indian bowler, Rechin Ravindra » = Medes New Zealand's opening batsmst; Formas ninatt broke Jonny Bairstow's 20rd tuns in maiden ODI world cup editionRachin has scored 578 runs in 10 innings’ of 2023 world cup. He also went past Sachin Tendular’s record of most runs in single ODI world cup edition, before the age of 25, % Sachin Tendulkar has scored, 523 runs in the 1996 world cup. > Matches — > Opening Sets — England V/s New Zealand, on October 5, 2023) > Top 5 runs scorer — Virat Kohli (India) 765, Rohit Sharma (India) 597, Quinton de Kock (South Africa) 594, Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand) 578, Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) 552 > Top 5 wicket takers — M. Shami (India) 24, ‘Adam Zampa (Australia) 23, Dilshan Madushanka (Sri Lanka) 21, Jasprit Bumrah (India) 20, Gerald Coetzee (South Africa) 20 >. Highest run (by a Team) ~ 428/5 (Sourth sei» Africa V/s Sti Lanka) > Highest run (in a Match) — (Australia V/s New Zealand) ‘w ‘Largest victory (Australia) — By 309 runs' (Vs. Netherlands) > Highest individual score ~ Glenn Maxwell (Australia) — 201 runs > Most Centuries ~ Quinton de Kock (4) > Most Fifties — Virat Kohli (6) > Most Sixes — Rohi Sharma (31) % Most sie n'a inning ~ Pathar Zarin (Pakistan) =11 > Best», bowling “figure. in) an. inning’ + Mobammed Shami (7/57) Vs New Zealand > Most five-wickets haul — Mohammed Shami G times) > Most Dismissals’ (by a wicket keeper) — |“ Quiriton de Kock (20), K:L. Rabul (17) ™ Most. Catches—» Daryl’ Mitchel (New mani ofthe match wards +. Travi's| dd @ tithes) of, the, match, (Semi, Final’ 1), — mmed Shami (India) V/s New Zealand ‘> Player of the match (Semi Final 2) - ‘Travis Head (Australia) V/s. South Africa ® Player of the Final match - Travis Head (Australia) ® Player of the Tournament — Virat Kobli adia) > Golden Bat (Most Run) — Virat Kohli, 765 runs 2 Virat Kohli is fourth Indian batsman to win this award. Sachin Tendulkar (1996 & 2003), Rahul Dravid (1999) and Rohit Sharma (2019) are other Indian players. > Golden Ball (Most wickets) — Mohammed Shami (24) 2 Mohammed Shami is fourth Indian bowler to, win the award. Roger Binny (1983), Anil Kumble.(1996) and Zaheer Khan (2011) are other bowlers. 2 India bowled out Sri Lanka at 55 runs in league stage and won match by 302 runs. > Pakistan recorded highest successful run chase (345) for any team in world cup history (against Sti Lanka) CO Next Editions > 14° ODI world cup will organize jointly in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe in 2027 AD. > While, 15" ODI world cup'will have organized jointly by India and Bangladesh in 2031-AD. CIICC Team of ‘the Tournament ® Players froin five teams have been named in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 Team of the Tournament. ® Six Indian players have selected in ithe ICC team: % The team in batting order is : 1... Quinton de Kock (Wk) (South Africa) 2. Rohit Sharma (C) (India) 3. Virat Kobi (India), 4. Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) 5. KL. Rahul (India) 6 *. 8. Glenn Maxwell (Australia) Ravindra Jadeja (India) 3. Jasprit Bumral (India) 9. Dilshan Madushanka (Sri Lanka) 10; ‘Adam Zampa (Australia) 11, Mohammed Shami (India), > 12" player : Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)Focus on the Country’s Political, Social, Religious, Educational Events. a 7 Edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) @ The ‘Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 7*Edition of the India Mobile Congress 2023 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on October 27, 2023. % India Mobile Congress (IMC) is the largest telecom, media, and technology forum in: Asia to be held from 27* to 29" October 2023 with the theme ‘Global Digital Innovation’. % During the program, the Prime Minister awarded 100 ‘5G Use Case Labs’ to educational institutions across the country. About India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2023 % India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2023 is a Prominent annual event that showcases the latest advancements and. innovations. in the mobile and digital technology sector. % The IMC 2023 aims to strengthen India’s position as a developer, manufacturer, and exporter of key cutting-edge technologies. % It serves as a platform for industry leaders, policy makers, technology’ enthusiasts; and stakeholders to come together and discuss the future of the digital landscape. Key Highlights of IMC 2023 > The Prime Minister also. inaugurated the ‘exhibition at Hall 5 and took a walk through. > Tewas informed that Jio has installed over 10 lakh 5G cells across all 22. circuits of India, making an 85 percent contribution to the overall 5G distribution where the roll-out of the 5G stack is designed, developed and manufactured by Indian talent. _and Various Minist ries birth India ranks among the top 3 5G-enabled nations with a user base of 125 million. % He informed that in 5000 towns and 20,000 villages Airtel 5G roll-out has already taken place and’ informed that by March 2024 they would cover the entire country and touched upon the call made by the Prime Minister to this effect. This will be truly the fastest 5G roll-out anywhere in the world. The Prime Minister informed about the development of 4 lakhs 5G base stations which, cover more than 97 percent of the cities and 80 percent of the population. ‘% He underlined that the speed of median mobile broadband speeds have increased 3 times within one year. % India moved from the 118% position to the 43"position in terms of broadband speed. “India is not only expanding the 5G network jin the country but also laying emphasis on becoming a leader in 6G”, he remarked. % Pointing out the scam that took place during 2G, the Prime Minister said that the 4G roll- ‘out which happened during the present governiment’s tenure is free from blemishes. '® He also expressed confidence that India will take the lead with 6G technology. ol Annual Report on ‘Road Accidents in India-2022' a 2022 @ The Annual Report ‘on ‘Road Accidents if India-2022” has been published by the Ministry of Road ‘Transport and Highways on Octobe! 31, 2023,® This report is based on the data/information received from police departments of States/ UTs on calendar year basis in standardized formats as provided by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) under the Asia Pacific Road Accident Data (APRAD) base project, > The report sheds light on the grim statistics of * road safety in the country. > The report is based on information provided by police departments of States and Union Territories collected on a calendar year basis. % Standardized formats from the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) were used for data collection under the Asia Pacific Road Accident Data (APRAD) base project. Key takeaways from the report Road Accidents in India In 2022; India witnessed a total of 4,61,312 road abeidgdts Teresiléed in'a thagic loss dF 1,68,491 lives cs sub i Additionally, 443,366. individuals. sustained injuries. 7 > These figures represent an 11.9% year-on-year increase in accidents, a 9.4% rise in’ fatalities, State/UT-wise distribution of number of accidents during 2021 and 2022 Toot SEE a and a substantial 15.3% surge in the number of people injured compared to the previous year. > India has the highest number of total persons killed due to road accidents, followed by China and the United States, 2 Venezuela has the highest rate of persons killed per 1,00,000 population. MEAN STREETS food acdentsinte pane feo Source : Road Accidents in India 2022 Report State-Specific Data : Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of road accidents on National Highways in 2022 (64,108 accidents or 13.9%). 2 -Madhya Pradesh’ follows Tamil Nadu closely with 54,432 accidents (11.8%). % Utear Pradesh reported the highest number of fatalities (22,595 or 13.4%) due to road accidents. > Tamil ‘Nadu ‘came second with 17,884 fatalities (10.6%).Year-on-Year Increase ' The report disclosed an/alarming year-on-year increase of 11.9% in road accidents. > Fatalities also rose by 9.4% in the same period. The number of injuries surged by'a staggering 15.3%, compared to the previous year. Accident Distribution '® The accidents were distributed across different types of roads as follows: 1. jppNational Highways, including Bxpressways: © 32.9% Eatalties:362%) 2, | State Highways: 23.1% (Fatalities: 24. 3%) 3: \Other roads: 43.9% (Fatalities: 39.4%) % 36.2% of fatalities “occurred on National Highways, 24.3% on State Highways, and 39.4% on other roads : Demographic Impact Young adults: Mostly between 18'and!45 years old cofhprised a significant portion, accounting for 66.5% of road accident victims ini 2022. % Working People: Within’ the working age group Of 18 to 60 years represented 83.4% of total road accident fatalities. Rural vs. Urban Accidents About 68% of road accident deaths occurred in ural areas, with urban ateas contributing 32% __ to the total accident deaths in the country. Wehicle Categories """ - 8°" ‘Two-wheelers, for the second consecutive year, accounted for the highest share in both total accidents and fatalities in 2022. > Light vehicles, including cars, jeeps, and taxis, ranked a distant second. Steps Taken by government of India for Foad safety # The Government has approved a National Road Safety Policy. ‘This Policy outlines various Policy measures such as promoting awareness j roid safety information’ data base, g safer road infrastructure including tion Of intelligent transport, enforcement safety laws etc, The Government has constituted the National d Safety Council as the apex body to take olicy decisions in matters of road safety. * Based on the recommendation of Group of Minister, the Ministry introduced Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill 2017 covering entire gamut of road safety. ® Issue of . Guidelines. for’ protection of Good Samaritans and draft rules as per MV (Amendment) Act, 2019 has been published, World Bank Support: Approval of a $250 million loan for the India’ State, Support Programme for Road Safety. Brasilia Declaration on Road Safety, 2015 The declaration was ‘signed at the second) Global “High-Level Conference’ on’ Road Safety held in Brazil. India is a signatory to the Declaration. ® The coiintries' plan to achieve Sustainable Development Goal’ 3.6 i¢, to halve the umber of global’ deaths "and injuries from road traffic accidents, by 2030,» inna Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project of Uttarakhand : Included under PMKSY-AIBP_ The Cabinet Committee on:Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved inclusion of, ‘Jaitirani Dam Multipurpose Project of Utearakhand under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY- AIBP) of Department of Water Resoutces, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Key Highlights "> The CCEA has approved central support of Rs. 1,557.18 crore to Uttarakhand for completion of the project |with | estimated cost of Rs! 2,584.10 crore by March, 2028. ® The project will see setting Lip of two feeder canals, refurbishing 207 km of existing canals) and introducing 278 km of solid field channels, > On the energy front, the dam is expected t0 generate 14 MW of hydro-power and deliver 42.70 million cubic meters of potable water t© over 10.65 lakh residents in Haldwani and its vicinities.% The project envisages additional irrigation of 57,065 ha (9,458 ha in Uttarakhand and 47,607 hha in Uttar Pradesh) in Nainital & Udham Singh Nagar districts of Uttarakhand, and Rampur & Bareilly districts in Utar Pradesh. > A substantial part of irtigation benefits of the Project would flow to the neighbouring, state of Uttar Pradesh, and cost/ benefit sharing between the two States is to be done as per an ‘MoU signed in 2017. > However, drinking water. and, power benefits shall be. available entirely. to Uttarakhand, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) > Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayce Yojana (PMKSY) was launched during the year 2015- 16, with an aim to enhance physical, access of water on farm and expand cultivable area undér assured irrigation, improve on-farm water use efficiency, introduce sustainable water ‘conservation practices, etc. Government of India has__ approved implementation of PMKSY during 2021-26 with an overall outlay of Rs.93,068.56 crore (central assistance of Rs. 37,454 crore). ® Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) component of PMKSY is for creation of irrigation potential through’ major and ‘medium irrigation projects. ® So far 53 projects have been completed under PMKSY-AIBP and additional. irrigation potential of 25.14 lakh hectare has been created. ‘D _ Six projects have been included after AIBP es) soppponent of PMKSY 2.0 since 2021-22, ‘2. Jamrani Dam , Multipurpose, Project. is seventh project to be included in the list. Eee ‘World Food India’ 2023’ ‘The “Wotld Food India (WFI) 2023’-event, concluded on November 5;:2023:at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, graced by the esteemed presence of the Ptesident of Indias ‘Smt, Droupadi Murmu, ® Event took place from: November 3-5, 2023 ® Inaugurated by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Organized by: Ministry of Food Processing Industries % Aim: To present India as the ‘food basket of the world’ and commemorate 2023 as the International Year of Millets. > Partner country: Netherlands > Events focus country: Japan > First edition of WFI was held in: 2017 Key Highlights % During the World Food India 2023 event, the ‘PM‘disbursed seed capital assistance to over 1 lakh self-help gtoups (SHGs) and inaugurated a “food street”. > Importance: This event serves as a platform to showcase India’s global leadership in food production and coincides with the celebration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets. % A total of 16 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed between the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and various companies 2 These agréements amounted to a total investment of around Rs. 18,000 crore. “About World Food India 2023 % World Food India 2023 is a gateway to the Indian food economy, facilitating partnerships between Indian and foreign investors. It will be” a “one-of-a-kind” gathering” of manufacturers, producers, food. processors, investors, policymakets; and_ organisations ~_ from’ across the global food ecosystem. % It is a. promising platform, to, showcase, connect and collaborate in retail, processing, technology transfer, manufacturing, and cold. chain logistics, along. the global food value chain, % It will showcase investment, opportunities in, backward linkages, processing equipment, research and development, cold chain storag start-ups, logistics, and retail chains.Key focus pillars of World Food India 2023 1. Shree Anna (Millets): Leveraging India’s Super Food for the World: Millets are ancient graitis that have been part of India’s sich heritage, for millennia. They are super foods that provide high nutrition, gluten-free options, climate’ resilience, and Eco-friendliness. 2. Exponential Food Processing: Positioning India as the Global Hub: India’has a vision to become a global hub for food ‘processing and create a competitive advantage for itself. in the world food market. Financing Agsi'Food Valié Chains, especially supporting MSMEs, is;a key focus area, 3. Strategic Segments: Unlocking Potentials for Growth: India is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of food products. 2 _ India leads the world in the production of ‘milk, bananas, mangoes, papayas, ‘guavas, ginger, okra and buffalo meat, and ranks second jn the production of rice) wheat, potatoes, gatlic, cashew nuts. 4eCreating an. Inclusive. and Efficient , Ecosystem: Removing barriers and establishing a ,)coordinated ,, framework .. for. inclusive opportunities. In line with this, goyernment has allowed 100% FDI under the automatic route in food processing industries in India 5. Sustainable Development for Prosperity: Embracing siistainable | practices,” tenewable energy and eco-friendly agricultural and food ptocessing methods for a more sustainable future, Global Maritime India Summit hi 2023 1 Prime’ Ministet Of India, Shri Naténdéa Modi Apauigutated the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 — via video conferencing recently. bout the Global Maritime India Summit Inaugurated on: October 17, 2023 Inaiigurated bys’PM Narencta Modi through Video confetencing Inaugueated at: Mumbai % Edition: 3" ti %® Themey Connect, Collaborate. Create, > Duration: 3 days > Nodal Agency: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India Background > The Global Maritime India Summit (GMIs) 2023, led by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Watérways, is a key annual event driving the Indian maritime economy through global and regional partnerships and investments, %® Serving as a vital gathering for the intetnational maritime | community, GMIS facilitates discussions, forums, and an investor summit, fostering collaboration among industry players, policymakers, investors, and stakeholders. ™» This platform dimsté addregs*industry issues and propel the sector's growth through engaging dialogues and an international exhibition. Ir also includes a Global CEOs’ Forum to attract investment. Organisers oa It is being organized jointly by Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways,Indian Ports Association and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry ICCD. Key points : > During the inaugural event PM, Modi, also unveiled Maritime ‘Ameit Kaal Vision 2047’, blueprint for the Indian maritime blue economy. ‘> Prime Minister also dedicated to the fation and laid the foundation’ stone of projects worth more than Rs 23,000 cfores that ate aligned with the ‘Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, % India secured ovér 10 lakh ctore investments within three days of unveiling of the Maritime Amatitkaal Vision 2047, % He nid the foundation stone of Tuna Tekra all-weather deep diaft terminal, to be’ built at a cost of mote'than Rs 4,500 crores at Deendayal Pott Authority ip, Gujarat, "> The terminal, which is likely to emerge: as a” international trade hub, wil act as a gateway for Undian tide via the India-Middle East-Europe Economie Corridor IMEEQ). GMIS 2023 Mumbai Declaration: was also unyeiled duting the event.The Prime Minister also dedicated more than 300 Memoraridums of Understanding (MoUs) worth more than 7, lakh crore for global and national partnerships in thie maritime sector. > During this three-day discourse, there was also much discussion about sustainable development with green ports and shipping, ‘Maritime ‘Amrit Kaal Vision 2047” Tt is a \road-map. for maritime. sector development for the next 25 years, the Amrit Kaal to'make India Atmanirbhar by 2047. % It has vision of unlocking investment of Rs. 80 lakh, crores. for the development of: maritime sector during this period. Kasturi Cotton Bharat Union Textiles Minister’Shri Piyush Goyal has recently launched Website of “Kasturi Cotton Bharat”, About the Website % Website for : Kasturi Cotton Bharat (https:// kasturicotton.texprocil.org) > Launched on: October 21, 2023 > Launched by: Union ‘Textiles Minister ‘Shri Piyush Goyal @iln order to give a distinct identity to the Indian Cotton, empower fatmers and’benefit the stakeholders, Ministry of Textiles} Government of India launched the “Kasturi Cotton” as a branding,” marketing and -s¢ertification initiative. KasturiCotton Bharat, % Ontheeve of Wosld Cotton Dayon 27 October | 2023, Ministry of “Textiles announced the | “easturi Cotton Bharat” brand of cotton.» | With, this initiative Indian cotton has, been | endowed. with a brand, anda logo. that | tepresents Whiteness, Softness,Psity, Lustre and Indianness. ; * “Thereafer an MoU was signed between CCon behalf of Govt. of India and TEXPROCIL on behalf of the Textile Industry on 15®December 2022 foramission-mode approachin positioning of Kasturi Cotton Bharat/brand. ® tisa joint initiative by the Ministry of Textiles, the’ Cottin Corporation of India, ‘Trade Bodies & Industry to work on the principle of self-tegulation by owning complete responsibility of Branding, Traceability and Cettification of Indian Cotton to enkiance’ its’ competitiveness ih the global ‘matket and create a sustainable ecosystem for all stakeholders involved. Functioning All cotton ginners nationwide are authorized to manufacture Kasturi Cotton’ Bharat brand |” following the specified protocol. > Additionally, QR-based certification technology will be implemented, at every processing stage to ensure comprehensive traceability, and a blockchain-based software platform will facilitate end-to-end tracking and issuance of transaction cettificates:for Kastiiti Cotton Bharat throughout the supply chain. Conclusion. a > In an eta of global competition, this initiative will strategically position Indian cotton on the world map for its quality’ standards and commitment to best practices. Nutrient Based Subsidy Recently, Union Cabinet has approved revised Nutrient Based Sebace (NBS) rates for, RABI Season, 2022-23. About NBS ® First launched : in 2010 Implemented by: Department of Betilinés, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers % ‘Type of :: fertilizer subsidy scheme for farmers Background The’ Goverment of Thdia,’ baséd ‘on Joint Parliamentary ' Coiintittee " recommendations, deregulated Phosphatic and Potissic: (P&K) fertilizers on 25th August 1992. Following: deregulation, the prices! of. these fertilizers sharply tose, adversely. affecting demand and consumption, This imbalance in Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P), and. Potash (K) usage led to decreased soil productivity.To address these issues, the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation introduced an ad- hoc Concession Scheme for deregulated P&K fertilizers starting from: 1st, October 1992, extended by the Government until 31st March 2010 with varying parameters. % Subsequently, the government implemented the Nutrient Based Subsidy Policy from 1st April 2010 (1st May 2010 for Single Super Phosphate = SSP), continuing the approach established by the earlier Concession Scheme for deregulated P&K fertilizers. ® For Rabi Season 2022-23: NBS approved for various nutrients ie. Nitrogen (N),; Phosphorus (P),Potash (K) and Sulphur (S) > For Kharif Season . 2023: NBS rates approved for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) Fertilizers. Objectives of NBS => Under the NBS regime — fertilizers are provided to the farmers at the subsidized rates based on the nutrients (N, P, K & S) contained in these fertilizers. Also, the fertilizers which ate fortified with secondary and micro-nutrients ° such as molybdenum (Mo) and zinc are given additional subsidy. 1 The NBS policy aims to boost the utilization of P&K fertilizers with the goal of achieving ‘an optimal balance in NPK fertilization, set © ata ratio of 4:2:1 for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. & This strategic approach is intended to enhance soil health, leading.to increased.crop yields and subsequently augmenting farmers’ income! ® - Additionally, by promoting the rational -use ‘of fertilizers, the government , anticipates a reduction, in) the, need for fertilizer, subsidies, thereby alleviating financial burdens. Subsidized P&K fertilizers; like DAP, ensure “affordable access for farmers during the Kharif: “season, supporting productivity and food security - invIndia. The NBS subsidy ehsures ‘efficient “resource allocation, directing support to farmers ” inmneed and promoting sustainable agriculture.” Project Udbhav Raksha Mantti Shri Rajnath Singh recently launched ‘Project UDBHAV’, during the inauguration of the Indian Military Heritage Festival. About Project Udbhav > Launched on: October 21, 2023 > Launched by: Defence Minister Rajnath Sigh ® Launched at: Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi ® Joint collaboration of : Indian Army/and the United Service Institution of India (USI), a defence services think tank ® Launched during: Indian Military Hetitage Festival (MHF) What is Project Udbhav? > Initiated by the Indian Army. ® Aims to rediscover Indic heritage in statecraft and strategic thinking. > Focus areas include Indigenous Military Systems, Historical Texts, Regional Texts, Kingdoms, and Kautilya Studies. : ® Core Objectives: > Bridge —historical””ind “contemporary perspectives. Develop anindigenous strategic vocabulary rooted in India’s cultural heritage. 2 Integrate ancient wisdom into modern military pedagogy. > Implementation: 2 Involves a broad spectrum of studies and thematic analyses. 2 Targets a comprehensive understanding of ancient Indian texts related to statecraft, warcraft, diplomacy, aid grat strategy? Military Heritage Festival Organized by the USI in -connection with Project Udbhav. Scheduled for October 21 and 22nd, 2023. ® A platform to showcase and celebrate India’s zich military heritage. The objective of the IMHF is to acquaint future thought leader’ with the dynamics of comprehensive national security’ with speci! emphasis on India’s strategic culture, militaY| heritage, education, modérnisation of secusty| forces and atmanirbhar Bharat. antIndia’s First Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) Recently Prime Minister, Nafendra Modi inaugurated the priority section of Delhi-Ghaziabad- Meerut RRTS Corridor at Sahibabad RapidX Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. About'the RRTS: Inaugurated by: PM Narendra Modi % Inaugurated on: October 20, 2023 Inaugurated at: Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh % Foundation stone was laid on: On March 8, 2019 by PM Modi % Special: India’s first rapid rail system What is RRTS? ® RRTS is a new rail-based, semi-high speed, high frequency computer transit system which can attain speed of upto 180 km per hour. % RRTSisa transformative, regional development initiative designed to provide high-speed trains for intercity commutes every 15 minutes, moving up to a frequency of every 5 iminutes as required, The Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid, Transit System, also called as, Delhi-Meerut RRTS, is an 82.15 km long, rapid rail corridor that yill connect Delhi, Ghaziabad and. Meerut, “currently under construction, % Recently PM Modi inaugurated the project’s first phase, or the 17 km (11 mi)-long priority _gottidor from Sahibabad to Dubai, % When fully functional, the corridor will reduce __,the travel time between Delhi to Meerut to less than, hous, Key Pointe) 414) \i > Prime Minister Narendra Modi, dedicated, two ilines of the Bast-West corridor;of, Bangalore ‘Metro during the event. % He,also’ flagged off the Namo Bharat RapidX ttain-connecting Sahibabad to Dubai Depot, marking ‘the Jaunch of. the Regional Rapid ‘Transit System (RRTS) in India. > The Prime Minister personally traveled in the regional rapid train named ‘Namo Bharat” Namo Bharat is proudly labeléd as ‘Made in India, with all support staff and locomotive pilots being women. % Prime Minister Modi expressed that similar systems, aimed at enhancing connectivity and generating employment, will be implemented in other parts of the country soon. % The Prime Minister envisions a trinity of ‘Amit Bharat) ‘Vande Bharat,’ and ‘Namo Bharat’ symibolizing the modernization’ of “Indian Railways by the end of the decade: Emphasizing” multi-modal connectivity, “he mentioned the integration of Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan, Anand Vihar, Ghaziabad, and Meerut bus stations, metro stations, and railway stations into the Namo Bharat system. ‘Amrit Bharat Railway station scheme > Scheme aims to enhance and modernize railway. stations throughout the Indian Railways network. % The scheme currently intends to upgrade an modernize a total of 1275 stations across the Indian Railway system. % twas launched in February 2023 by Ministry, of Railways. Future of RRTS > A total of eight RRTS corridors have’ been identified to be developed in the National Capital Region (NCR), out of which three corridors have been given priority for implementation in Phase-I, which include Delhi-Ghaziabad- Meerut cottidor, Delhi-Gurugram- ,SNB- - Alwar cortidor and Delhi-Panipat corridor are included. Conclusion The indigenous RRTS, aligned with the PM Gatishakti National Master Plan, offers advanced regional mobility with extensive multi-modal integration, It promises secure, \ reliable transportation, boosting economic activity, improving access to opportunities, and reducing vehicular congestion and ait pollution., “i eR Waal ole} World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Climate Services report 2023 Recently, the World. Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a report that explores the interconnection between climate and health. The 2023 State of Climate Services report reveals the need for tailored, climate information and services to support the health sector as it works to address extreme weather, poor air quality, shifting infectious disease patterns, and food and water insecurity. > Report Issued By- World Meteorological Organization (WMO) > Report Published in - Geneva > Edition- 5% (First Edition was Issued in 2019) > Major Highlight of Report - Current State ‘of Climate Services : Health. Key Highlights The interconnection between climate and health is undeniable. > The climate, exacerbated by climate change, poses systematic and serious threats to human, health, > Climate change is documented to be impacting human health in many. complex ways, including y leading to death, injury and illness from \eati stress, the distuption of ecosystems and systems, increases in food-, and water- " vand-vector-borne diseases, and exposure to air »pollution. The: 2023 edition of the WMO State of ‘Climate Services’ report focuses on health, which highlights the importance of climate of Scere U Pn CR OL SASL services and information in protecting lives and livelihoods. % This report examines the current state of climate services for health, and presents a series of next steps, recommendations and case studies. ‘The report’s other findings include: > While extreme heat causes the greatest mortality of all extreme weather, heat warning services ate provided to health decision makers in-only half of the affected countries; "> Climate change mitigation leading to reducing. air pollution can save lives; anid Investments to improve the capabilities ‘of the health sector to safeguard the most vulnerable are insufficient. > To fully harness the potential of climate services for health, the'report calls for transformational change in institutional development and integration across the health and climate sectors. About World Meteorological Organization (WMO) The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is an intergovernmental organization with a membership of 193 Member States and ‘Tertitories, It originated “from the International ‘Meteorological Organization (IMO), the roots of which were planted at the 1873 Vienna International Meteorological Congress: > Established by the ratification of the WMO Convention on 23 March 1950, WMO became " the specialised agency of the United Nations fof meéteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences * year lat‘he Secretariat, headquartered in Geneva, is headed by the Secretary-General. Its supreme body iis the World Meteorological Congress. Adaptation Gap Report-2023 © Recently the UN Environment Programme (GNEP) has published its annual Adaptation Gap Report, which finds that'amid growing’ climate change impacts, progress on adaptation is slowing, Key Points * Report Published’ by- UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre’ and World ‘Adaptation Science Programme (WASP). " > Report Produced on- November 2, 2023 ® Title of Report -'Under-financed, Underpre- pared. Inadequate investment and planning on climate adaptation leaves world exposed . Key Highlights The Adaptation Gap Report 2023 finds that progréss’on adaptation is slowing actoss all three faréas aninually assessed — finance; planning and “implementation When it “should’ be rapidly accelerating, ’ > This has massive implications for people left to facé the full force of climate impacts without any ov shield and, a8 a'reSult, for losses and damages — which ate worldwide, but thost forcefully felt in the developing countries least able to deal with them, Adaptation Finance Gap: The adaptation’ finance’ gap'—' that isthe difference’ between” ‘estimated’ * adaptation financing needs and’ cdsts (USD 215 billion to USD 387 billion)’ and’ (existing) ‘finance flows (USD 2133 billion) has growa. ’ % The adaptation gap is likely'10!18 times 86 great as curtentintergational adaptation finance flows = at feast, 50 per cent, higher than, previous range estimates... \ How Gap in Adaptation is Assessed she Adaptation’ Gap Repott assessed thé ‘current need for adaptation’ finance in two ways. Ie put together all the requirements put forward by the developing countries and that,came to USD 387 billionievery yearithis decade. > Separately, it did a modelling exercise of the kind of adaptation that was required and the money needed for it % ‘That exercise yielded a sum of USD 215 billion every year in this decade. Seven Ways to Bridge the Adaptation Gap, % This Report identifies seven ways to bridge the adaptation gap, which include an increase in international finance flows, and. greater domestic mobilisation of resources. ® Besides. these, it calls for a reform of global financial, architecture, to ensure greater and easier access to finance for climate-related purposes from multilateral agencies the World Banik or the IMF. Climate Finance > Efforts are ‘being, made» to jificrease the finance flows, not just for adaptation, but for all other kinds of climate needs, together called climate finance. Developed countries had promised, way back in 2009, to mobilise at least USD 100 billion in climate finance every year from 2020 but even. three years after the deadline, that amount has not been realised, ® In the meanwhile, the need, for climate finance has skyrocketed and is now assessed to. be in trillions of dollars every year. ® At the Glasgow climate conference in 2021, the developed countries had.committed themselves to double the money for adaptation. ® Separately, there is also an agreement that a new climate financing goal, over and above USD 100 Billion every year, would be set by 2025.% But the Adaptation Gap Report suggests that the current ambition on raising climate finance would just not be enough. About UNEP Adaptation Gap Report (AGR) The UNEP Adaptation Gap Report (AGR) series provides an annual science-based assessment of the global progress on adaptation planning, financing, and implementation. % It also explores options for enhancing “and advancing national and global adaptation efforts and provides in-depth analysis of selected issues of interest. ' UNEP has produced the AGR since 2014, with the aim to inform the climate negotiations among UN Member States, * While it remains an Independent assessment, the objective of the AGR is closely aligned with that of the UNFCCC Global Stocktake. % The AGR is co-produced by UNEP, the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEP-CCC) and the World Adaptation. Sciesice Programme (WASP). Fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-5) Recently, the fifth meéting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, was held in Geneva, Switzerland. Key Point > Cotiference of the Parties Held In- Geneva, % Conference of the Parties Held on- 30 Oct 2023 - 03 Nov 2023 ® President of COP-5 - Claudia Sorina Dumitru (Romania) F Bxecutive Secietary of ‘the Minamata Convention- Monika Stankiewicz Key Highlights "> Among the decisions made at\COP-5, Parties defined new dates to phase out mercury-added __—_—<_<____ x products including, cosmetics, strengthened tieg with Indigenous Peoples, advanced the firs, effectiveness evaluation of the Convention, ‘and reached an agreement on a thréshold for mercury waste. "> Parties agreed on a new requirement to advance the phase-down of dental amalgam and, as of 2025, no mercury level will be allowed in cosmetics. % They also decided to amend Annex B with ¢ 2025 phase-out date for, the production of polyurethane using mercury catalysts. > After seven years of negotiation, Parties agreed on a5 mg/kg total concentration of mercuty as the threshold for wastes contaminated with mercury of mercury compounds, , inviting submissions . of , scientific and regulatory information on this topic. % Taking into.account that the recent adoption of, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was a major milestone for the world and the Minamata Convention. The COP encouraged Parties to, take a number of steps to advance integrated action on mercury reduction and biodiversity, . and inyited, the Conference of the Patties to, the Convention on Biological Diversity to consider additional indicators, under ‘Target 7, to cover highly hazardous chemicals and mercury. About The Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention (COP-6) The next meeting of the Conference of the “Parties to the Minamata Convention (COP-6) will convene in Geneva from 3 to 7 Novembet 2025 under the Chilean presidency . About the Minamata Convention ‘ The Minamata Convention on Mercury is the ‘most recent global agreement on environment and healthadopted in 2013, Itisnamed after the bay in Japan where, in the mid-20th century, mereury-tainted industid Wastewater “poisoned thousands of peoples leading to severe health damage that became known'as the “Minamata ai.® Since it entered into force on 16 August 2017, 147 Parties have been’ working together to control the mercury ‘supply and trade, reduce the use, emissions and: releases: of mercury, raise public awareness, arid build the necessary institutional capacity. The first. meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata, Convention on Mercury (COP) took place from 24 to-29 September 2017 at the International Conference Centre in Geneva. ‘About the UN Environment Programme UNEP is the leading global voice on, the environment, It. provides, leadership, and encourages partnership in. caring for. the environment by. inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. Former Navy Personnel Sentenced to Death in Qatar Recently a Qatari court,has sentenced eight former Indian, Navy personnel to death in Qatar for alleged espionage in 2022, > Accusations: The individuals were accused of breaching sensitive secrets while working for Dahta’ Global Technologies and’ Consultant Services, 4 Company associated with advanced Italian-origin submarines. ‘Specific charges have not been made Je public by Qatari authorities: India’s Reaction » ‘India expiessed'deep coricern and stiock over the’ death’ sentences and 48 explotitig’ legal options for theif #elease. Diplonidtic Implications 01° * Be at Quaridaionny oh have been sable, a6 India seks to save the lives sof its citizens. > Over, 800,000. Indians. contribute. to,.the economic and diplomatic ties in Qatar. Options for India ® Diplomatic” negotiations and Teveaghi: the strategic and economic relationship with Qatar. ® Applying diplomatic pressure to prevent the death penalty. ® Exploring an appeal against the verdict or transfer of convicted peionent through a 2015 agreement. ® Involving NGOS, civil society, and seeking UN intervention. ® Legal steps include appealing within Qatar’s judicial system, ptoviding legal representation, and invoking the International Court of Justice if necessary. ca Global Hunger Index 2023 Recently, Global Hunger Index (GHD 2023 report was released.in which India attained 111" rank out of 125 countries. ‘About GHI 2023 i Releasedby:" Concern | Worldwide Welthungerhilfe. ® Released in: October 2023 ~ > Theme: The Power'Of Youth In Shaping Food ‘Systems 7 i > Total number’ of included countries: 136 (only 125 provided sufficient data) ® India’s rank: 111 Background % The Global Hunger Index (GHD), is @ peer- reviewed report, published annually by Concern Worldwide and Welt Hunger Hilfe, > Concern Worldwide and Welt Hunger Hilfe, both, are... non-governmental organisations based in Ireland and Germany, respectively. % Itis'a tool designed to comprehensively measure And track hungerat global, regional, and national, levels, reflecting multiple dimensions of hunger over time, Methodology %® Each country’s GHI score is calculated based on a formula that combines four indicators that together. capture, the multidimensional, nature.of, hunger. % Undernourishment: the share. of... the population whose caloric intake is insufficient; and