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Table of Contents

1 Superlatives 2

2 IITs 5

3 Indices – Reports 7

4 Exercises & Defence 9

5 International 13

6 National 16

7 Science & Technology 21

8 Constitution & Politics 23

9 Economy 25

10 Geography Related Issues 27

11 Culture-History-Heritage 29

12 Summits 30

13 Persons In New’s 31

14 Sports 36

15 Awards 39

16 Important Dates & Events 41

17 Books& Authors 43

18 Regional 44

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Superlatives
India’s Largest Pumped Storage Project
MP CM Shivraj Chouhan Inaugurated India’s Largest Pumped Storage Project at Neemuch Chief
Minister (CM) of Madhya Pradesh (MP) Shivrai Singh Chouhan inaugurated India's largest pumped
storage project in Khemla block of Neemuch district in Madhya Pradesh. The project is being
developed by Greenko Group, India's largest energy storage company.

PM Modi Inaugurated the Country's First High-Tech Sports Training Center


• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the country's first high-tech sports training centre for
Divyangjan, named after former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, in Gwalior, Madhya
Pradesh.
• This initiative aims to provide equal opportunities in sports, enhance talent, and encourage
participation in various sports disciplines. Divyangjan from all over the country can practice and train
in the Atal Bihari Training Center for Divyang Sports.

Indonesia Launches 'Whoosh,' Southeast Asia's First High-Speed Railway


• Indonesian President Joko Widodo officially inaugurated Southeast Asia's first high-speed railway on
Monday, marking a significant milestone for the nation's infrastructure development.
• The ambitious project, known as the "Whoosh" high-speed railway, is a key component of China's
Belt and Road Initiative and is poised to dramatically reduce travel times between two vital
Indonesian cities: Jakarta & Bandung
• "Whoosh"' which stands for Waktu Hemat, Operasi Optimal, Sistem Handal* in the Indonesian
language, translates to 'timesaving, optimal operation, reliable system.' This name reflects the
project's commitment to efficiency and reliability.

Mobile Tower T World’s Highest Battlefield


A mobile tower has been installed for the first time at Siachen Glacier, the world's highest
battlefield.This tower was installed by the Indian Army in collaboration & with Bharat SancharNigam
Limited (BSNL).

Udaipur Set to Become India's First Wetland City


• The Rajasthan government, in collaboration with the Environment and Forest Department, is
making concerted efforts to elevate Udaipur, also known as the 'City of Lakes,' to international
prominence by aiming to become India's first wetland city.
• Udaipur, with its striking natural beauty and ecological significance, is poised to fulfill all the
requirements stipulated by the Ramsar Convention. Covering an area of 37 square kilometers, the city
is graced by five major lakes - Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai.

BIAL sets up South Asia's 1st Aircraft Recovery Training School in BLR Airport
Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has established South Asia's first Aircraft Recovery
Training School (ARTS) on the premises of Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR
Airport) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• BIAL formed a strategic partnership with KUNZ GmbH Aircraft Equipment, Germany.
• BIAL is the first airport in India to acquire Code F compatible aircraft recovery equipment and
assemble a proficient team of recovery managers.

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Mumbai Airport is 1st in Asia to Commission 'Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit'
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharai International Airport (CSMIA) of Mumbai, Maharashtra, has become the
first airport in Asia to commission a "Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit" (DARK), to help stranded
aircraft.
• DARK can quickly and efficiently recover large commercial and transport aircraft that have become
disabled due to runway excursions or other incidents.
• DARK uses high-pressure lifting bags that are more durable and require fewer people to operate
than conventional low-pressure systems.
• It can recover aircraft up to 390 tonnes in weight, including the world's largest aircraft, the Boeing
777-300ER.
• The DARK kit is compact and portable, making it easy to transport to crash sites quickly. This is
especially important at CSMIA, which has a single cross-over runway operation.

India's First Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) To Be Launched In UP


• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the priority section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-
Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) Corridor and simultaneously launch the Rapid train,
symbolizing the beginning of RRTS operations in India. The event will take place at the Sahibabad
Rapid Station in Uttar Pradesh on October 20, 2023.
• The priority section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor, spanning 17 kilometers, is a
significant development in India's transportation infrastructure. This section will connect Sahibabad
to the 'Duhai Depot,' with stations at Ghaziabad, Guldhar, and Duhai along the way.
• With a remarkable design speed of 180 kilometers per hour, RRTS aims to provide high speed trains
for intercity commuting every 15 minutes, with the potential to increase frequency to as often as
every 5 minutes, depending on demand.

Research towards improved GPS services


Scientists are using the 'Giant Meter wave Radio Telescope' (GMRT) for the first time to investigate
the disturbances in the ionospheric layer above the Earth. So far these observations have been done
with the help of satellites. Scientists said that research with the help of a telescope will lead to a better
understanding of the ionosphere. As a result, more specific measurements can be collected in
navigation and communication. Ultimately, the way to increase the accuracy of the GPS system will be
paved. IIT scientists in Indore are doing this research and identified significant perturbations and
unpredictable changes in the ionosphere during sunrise.

Country's highest pole hoisting National Tricolour


Country's highest pole hoisting National Tricolour installed at Attari Joint Check Post on India-
Pakistan border in Amritsar district, Punjab.

Kerala Becomes the First State to Have Hallmarking Centres in All Districts
Kerala has become the first state in India to have hallmarking centers in all its 14 districts. This was
achieved after the inauguration of a hallmarking center in Adimali, Idukki district, Kerala.
• This will make Kerala a hub of gold business and strengthen its claim to being the most reliable
market in India.

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Karnataka launches 'HAWK' centralized wildlife crime management system.
The Karnataka Forest Department, along with Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) has launched the Hostile
Activity Watch Kernel (HAWK) system, a specialised software platform to monitor all aspects of forest
and wildlife crime.
• The initiative is supported by NTT DATA, an Information technology (IT) services provider, under its
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

Kasaragod Becomes 1st District in India to Declare Official Tree, Flower, Bird, Species
The Kasaragod district of Kerala became the first district in India to officially designate its official tree,
flower, bird and species showcasing its rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
• The Kasaragod district panchayat along with the state Biodiversity Management Committee made
the declaration and seeks its formalization by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board.
• The endangered species were declared as district's species to strengthen the conservation activities.

Japan Becomes First Nation to Launch an Electromagnetic Railgun From An Offshore Vessel
• On October 17, the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (UMSDF) in collaboration with the
Acquisition Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA), a division of the Japanese Ministry of Defense,
successfully test-fired a medium-caliber maritime electromagnetic railgun from an offshore platform.
• This remarkable feat marks the first time any nation has managed to launch a railgun from an
offshore platform. Typically, railguns are mounted on ships, but Japan aspires TO employ this
technology both on land and at sea, making this test an unprecedented advancement in the field.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Inaugurated 1st Indian Military Heritage Festival 2023
in New Delhi
On 21st October 2023, Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD), inaugurated the first
edition of Indian Military Heritage Festival (2023) at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Delhi.
• The festival, organized by the United Service Institution of India (USI) - Centre for Military History &
Conflict Studies (CMHCS), was held from 21st to 22nd October 2023.
• The 2-day festival celebrated the rich military culture and heritage of India through conversations,
art, dance, drama, storytelling, and exhibitions.

Jio Space Fiber: India's First Satellite-Based Gigabit Broadband Service


• Reliance Jio Info comm Ltd, India's leading telecommunications provider has introduced "Jio Space
Fiber' satellite broadband service. This groundbreaking initiative was officially unveiled at the India
Mobile Congress and represents the nation's first satellite-driven giga fiber Service.
• The primary goal of this satellite broadband service is to extend high-speed internet access to
previously underserved and remote regions in India. By enabling this connectivity, Jio aims to bring
millions of homes and businesses in India online, many of which are experiencing broadband internet
for the first time.

Indian Oil Introduces India's First Reference Fuel to Cater To Domestic Demand
• India marked a significant milestone in its quest for self-reliance in the automotive sector by
introducing the production of 'reference' petrol and diesel.

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• These 'reference' fuels are distinct from regular and premium petrol and diesel, as they possess
higher specifications, making them vital for calibrating and testing vehicles by manufacturers and
agencies.

IITs
KVIC Inaugurated A New Khadi India Outlet At IIT Delhi
• In a bid to bridge the generational gap and ignite a renewed interest in the age-old fabric, the Khadi
and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) inaugurated a revamped Khadi India outlet at the
prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IT) Campus in Delhi on October 2.
• Recognizing the need to adapt to contemporary fashion preferences, a new range of Khadi apparel
has been crafted. This collection is designed to appeal to young audiences with vibrant colors and
contemporary silhouettes.
• Khadi Institutions, under the guidance of the (Centre of Excellence for Khadi) CoEK team, have
standardized the production of nine distinct styles of Khadi apparel. The IIT outlet will serve as a
trailblazer, setting the stage for a fresh narrative around Khadi fashion.

Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0


Recently, the union Minister of State (Independent Charge Science & Technology, MoS Personnel,
Public Grievances, Pensions launched the Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0
About Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0:
• Itis a public grievance portal and Automated Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal of the Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG.
• It has been implemented by lIT Kanpur.
• Objectives: The Dashboard provides instant tabular analysis of Grievances Filed & Disposed, State-
wise & District-wise Grievances Filed & Ministry-wise data.
• It will also help the officials identify the root cause of the grievance.
• This portal will help the DARPG with creation of draft letter for selected scheme/ministry and
expedite the grievance redressal process by the concerned ministry/department.
• It has been enabled with Artificial intelligence (AI) capacity.

IIT-Madras offshore campus in Zanzibar to be opened in November: Union Education Minister


Announcement made at event to confer honorary doctorate by Jawaharlal Nehru University on
Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is on a four -day visit to India.

CDSCO approves India's first CAR-T cell therapy against certain blood cancers.
An IIT Bombay incubated company, Immuno ACT, has been granted approval by Indian drug regulator
Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for its CAR-T cell therapy NexCAR19. According
to an ET report, this therapy, which is backed by drug maker Laurus Labs, is designed to treat certain
types of blood cancers. NexCAR19 is the first humanized CD19-targeted Chimeric Antigen Receptor T
cell (CAR-T) therapy developed in India to receive approval.

'Combined Power Generation Technology'


Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras have patented a 'Combined Power
Generation Technology' technology that can generate electricity from both Tidal and Wind sources.

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The innovation developed by the researchers is an energy converter system that can generate
electricity in coastal areas to reduce electricity demand. The converter system can be deployed
depending on the power requirements in the coastal area. This can be deployed as a mobile vehicle for
power generation, transmission and storage.

Point-of-care-testing (POCT) device


Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG) alumni-led startup Primary Healthtech Private Limited
has developed an indigenous point-of-care-testing (POCT) device which is expected to test 25
parameters in blood to diagnose early chronic diseases related to kidney, liver, heart and pancreas
malfunctions.
Titled MobilabTM, the device is operated through an IoT-enabled Android app and can perform about
150 tests with a single charge of the battery, which enables a digitally connected ecosystem for its use
even for the remotest locations of the nation, primary healthtech chief executive officer Sahil Jagnani.

Nanostructured hard-carbon florets (NCFs) developed at IIT Bombay


A new material called nanostructured hard-carbon florets (NCFs) developed at IT Bombay, has
achieved an unprecedented solar-thermal conversion efficiency of over 87 per cent. This material
efficiently converts sunlight into thermal energy, making it suitable for practical applications such as
heating air and water. It effectively absorbs over 97 per cent of sunlight's ultraviolet, visible, and
infrared components, converting them into thermal energy. The resulting heat can be efficiently
transferred to either air or water for practical applications. Research reveals that NCFs can raise the
temperature of the surrounding air from room temperature to 60 degrees Celsius, providing smoke-
free space-heating solutions.

ICMR developed 'Birth Control Injection' for men


An alternative to vasectomy, the current birth control method available to men without having
children, is about to become available. For the first time in the world, the Indian Council of Medical
Research (ICMR) is bringing an 'injectable male contraceptive'. Clinical trials on this injection have
been successful. The results of the Phase 3 trials conducted on 303 men between the ages of 25-40
were published in the International Open Access Journal of Andrology. Trials have shown that the
injection is effective and has few side effects. Dr. Sujoy K Guha, a researcher from IIT-Kharagpur has
developed a reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance (RISUG) injection for the first time in the
world to stop the release of sperm in men. Phase-3 trials were conducted with the approval of the
Drugs Controller of General India (DCG).

IIT-Madras researchers discover miracle of sterilization of medical devices with steam.


IIT-Madras researchers have discovered a miracle. Scientists have found a solution to a major
problem faced in the management of medical camps in remote areas. A special device has been
developed to sterilize medical devices. A steam-based sterilizer system that works with solar energy
has been made available. Another advantage is that this device can be moved from one place to
another. The device was developed under the leadership of Professor Satyam Subyaiah of the
Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT-Madras. This portable solar powered device generates and
stores steam. Thus, the medical instruments used for performing surgeries can be easily sterilized.
Due to this, surgeries can be done without infection.

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Inexpensive tool to aid diabetes control: Credit to IIT Guwahati scientists.
Scientists at IIT Guwahati have developed an inexpensive tool that can help determine the glycemic
index (GI) of foods. This device is also very small. According to the researchers, it provides results
within five minutes. It is very important to know the GI of the food items to control diabetes. So we
can find out how it affects the blood sugar level when we eat them. Foods with a high GI cause blood
sugar levels to rise quickly and then fall quickly. Such foods increase insulin demand. Ultimately
increasing the risk of type-2 diabetes. A low GI diet can prevent heart disease, obesity and cancer. The
latest device was made by mixing gold nanoparticles with alpha amylase.

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bhubaneswar


A group of researchers at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bhubaneswar, have developed a tool for
predicting heavy rainfall well in advance, especially for the northeast. They claimed the tool is the first
of its kind.
The researchers have incorporated the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in their U-Net
model which they said will be useful for disaster preparedness.

Indian Institute of Technology in Kanpur


Airbus and the Indian Institute of Technology in Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (Mol) to facilitate increased collaboration in developing education programmes to
foster talent development in the Indian aerospace sector, said the European aerospace company in a
press statement issued.

MeitY Launches Indigenous Portable DC Charger to Boost Electric Vehicle Adoption


On October 20, 2023, S Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology
(MeitY), launched the indigenous (Made in India) technology of "2KW DC Portable Charger" designed
to meet the new safety standard IC 60950-11.
• It envisages boosting electric vehicle (EV) adoption in India by encouraging the development of
indigenous technology.
• This development will also aid in MeitY's obiective to accelerate EV adoption and reduce
dependence on imported chargers.
Developers:
It was developed by the Centre of Excellence (CoE at Indian Institute Of Technology (IIT) Madras
Research Park in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN) in collaboration with Flowtrik Technologies.
• It is funded by MeitY.

IIT Mandi
IIT Mandi, DBT- in Stem Bengaluru scientists find how dengue mosquito eggs are so hard.The research
could pave way for innovative mosquito control methods, potentially reducing disease transmission.

Indices – Reports
Global Hunger Index 2023: India's Decline to 111th Place
• In the latest Global Hunger Index (GHI) for 2023, India has been ranked 111 out of 125 countries,
marking a decline from its 107th position in 2022. The GHI is an annual assessment of hunger levels
globally, published by Irish NGO Concern Worldwide and German NGO Welt Hunger Hilfe.

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• Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Chile, China and Croatia are the top five countries in GHI 2023. Chad,
Niger, Lesotho, Congo, Yemen, Madagascar, and Central African Republic are the countries ranked at
the bottom of the index.
• In comparison to neighboring countries, India's GHI ranking appears stark:
• India: 111th
• Pakistan: 102nd
• Bangladesh: 81st
• Nepal: 69th
• Sri Lanka: 60th

Mumbai Secures 19th Spot, Bengaluru 22nd And New Delhi 25th In The Knight Frank Index
• London-based property consultant, Knight Frank, has recently unveiled its Global Prime Residential
Index, providing insight into the performance of various cities across the world in the residential real
estate market.
• With an astonishing annual percentage change of six percent, Mumbai has ascended 76 places to
secure the 19th position on the index, a significant improvement from its 95th position in Q2 2022.

Mercer CA Institute Global Pension Index 2023: India ranked 45th out of 47; Netherland tops.
According to the 15th annual Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index (MCGPI 2023), India is
ranked 45th out of 47 countries. The overall index value of India increased from 44.5 in 2022 to 45.9
in 2023. India was ranked 41st out of 44 in 2022.
• The 2023 Index is topped by the Netherlands with overall index value of 85.0, followed by Iceland
(83.5) and Denmark (81.3).
• With the lowest index value of 42.3, Argentina is ranked 47th in MCGPI 2023.
• The MCGPI 2023 compares 47 retirement income systems across the globe and covers 64% of the
world's population.
• India's sub-indices values were adequacy (41.9), sustainability (43.0), and integrity (56.5).
About Mercer:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)- Martine Ferland
Headquarters- New York, United States Established - 1945

The organ donation process is dominated by women.


More women agree to donate organs than men... NOTTO has introduced a website that provides
Aadhaar authentication signatures for organ donation. As of September 16, 82,000 people had
pledged to donate organs... In terms of organ donation volunteering, Madhya Pradesh (18,847) and
Telangana (11,564) followed behind as the top two states. Maharashtra ranked first with 23,369
volunteers.

Global Remote Work Index, India Among World's Worst Countries


• In a significant shift in the global remote work landscape, India has been ranked 64th out of 108
countries in the Global Remote Work Index (GRWI). This marks a substantial decline of 15 places from
the previous year, raising concerns about the country's readiness for remote work.
• India's remote work challenges are largely rooted in subpar digital and physical infrastructure. The
nation ranked 77th in this category, indicating that its e-infrastructure is among the least developed
globally (95th position). India's internet services, although widely available, are plagued by issues of
cost (78th) and quality (70th), hampering remote work efficiency.

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1 million deaths due to paralysis by 2050
Leading medical research organization 'The Lancet' has estimated that the number of deaths due to
paralysis will go up to 1 crore per year by 2050... If action is not taken proper precautions, the cost
would be yearly ₹2.3 lakh crore per person. These deaths are higher in low- and middle-income
countries... The number of deaths due to paralysis in 2020 is 66 thousand. The report explains: Over
the past 30 years, the number of people who die or become disabled due to paralysis has doubled. In
2020, the death rate due to paralysis is the highest in Asia with 61% and by 2050 it will reach 69%.
Many proposals have been put forward to reduce them.

Exercises & Defence


India And Bangladesh Annual Joint Military Exercise "SAMPRITI" Begins
• India and Bangladesh commenced the 11th edition of their annual joint military exercise, SAMPRITI,
in Umroi, Meghalaya. SAMPRITI-XI involves the participation of 170 personnel from the Bangladesh
contingent, led by Brigadier General Mohammed Mafizul Islam Rashed, Commander of the 52
Bangladesh Infantry Brigade.
• Since its inception in Jorhat, Assam, in 2009, SAMPRITI has successfully conducted ten editions until
2022. SAMPRITI-XI, spanning 14 days, engages approximately 350 personnel from both sides,
emphasizing the significance of enhancing interoperability, sharing tactical drills, and promoting best
practices.
• The history of SAMPRITI dates to 2009, when it was first established as a platform for joint military
exercises between India and Bangladesh. Over the past decade, this initiative has witnessed
substantial growth, becoming a symbol of the strong defence ties between the two nations.

IAF To Stop Flying MiG-21 By 2025: Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari


• Amidst its ongoing efforts to modernize and replace its aging Russian-origin aircraft, the Indian Air
Force (IAF) has announced plans to retire its iconic MiG-21 fighter jets and replace them with the
indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A.
• The Air Chief Marshal confirmed that the MiG-21 fighter aircraft would cease operations by 2025,
with the LCA Mark 1A being the replacement of choice. The MiG-21 has been a stalwart of the Indian
Air Force for over six decades.
• During the press conference, it was announced that the legendary MiG-21 would participate in what
might be its final flypast anywhere in the world. The aircraft has played a pivotal role in safeguarding
India's airspace and has been instrumental in various missions and operations.

Indian Air Force Set to Induct Astra BVR Air-To-Air Missile


• The Indian Air Force (IAF) is making significant strides towards enhancing its air defense
capabilities with the impending induction of indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air-to-Air
Missiles.
The AF has entered contracts with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for these advanced missiles,
marking a crucial step towards reducing import dependency and bolstering national security.
• The first batch of Astra-MK1 missiles, developed by the Defence Research and Development
Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) among other DRDO laboratories, is slated for
induction by the end of 2023. BDL has already received Bulk Production Clearance for Astra-MK1
missiles, signifying a significant milestone in indigenous missile production.

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Indian Navy to Unveil Weaponized Boat Swarms And Underwater Vessels At Swavlamban 2.0
• The Indian Navy is preparing to host the second edition of the Naval Innovation and Indigenization
Seminar, known as Swavlamban, scheduled to take place on October 4th and 5th in the vibrant city of
New Delhi.
• The Indian Navy is set to unveil two remarkable platforms at this event: the Autonomous
Weaponized Boat Swarms and the Autonomous Vessel Underwater (AUV).
• The Indian Navy has entered into a significant agreement with the Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt.
Ltd for the development of these autonomous systems. With the implementation of an integrated
autonomous system, the foremost objective is to address India’s maritime security needs by executing
diverse naval and security missions.

Operation "Kachchhap"
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted a successful operation called "Kachchhap,"
• This operation resulted in the recovery of the 955 live baby turtles, including species like the Indian
Tent Turtle, Indian Flapshell Turtle, Crown River Turtle, Black Spotted/Pond Turtle, and Brown
Roofed Turtle.
• The DRI had received intelligence about a syndicate engaged in the illegal trafficking and trading of
these turtles, some of which are considered vulnerable or near-threatened species according to the
IUCN Red List and are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
This operation is part of the DRI's ongoing efforts to protect the environment and combat illegal
wildlife trafficking.

Annual Joint HADR Exercise 2023 (AJHE-23) - CHAKRAVAT 2023


• AJHE, known as CHAKRAVAT, is a significant initiative that has evolved since its inception in 2015
into a multi-agency endeavor that includes the active participation of India's armed forces,
paramilitary forces, disaster response organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs),
academic institutions, and international organizations.
• The Annual Joint HADR Exercise is conducted on a rotational basis by India's three armed services:
the Indian Army, Indian Navy (IN), and Indian Air Force (IAF). The previous edition of the exercise
was hosted by the IAF in Agra. In 2023, the Indian Navy is set to host AJHE-23 in Goa from October 9th
to 11th.

ASDM of Assam Govt & Indian Army signed MoU for upskilling of ex-servicemen.
Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM) under the Skill, Employment & Entrepreneurship
Department, Government of Assam and the Indian Army (Headquarters 51 Sub Area) have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for upskilling ex-servicemen and their dependents.
• This MoU between the Indian Army and ASDM will empower ex-servicemen and their dependents to
get remunerative employment and self-employment.

Mid-Planning Conference for Multilateral Naval Exercise (MILAN) - 24


• The Indian Naval is all set to host MILAN 24, a significant multilateral naval exercise, at
Visakhapatnam from 19th February to 27th February 2024. This event follows a long-standing
tradition of hosting the MILAN exercise, showcasing India's commitment to fostering international
maritime cooperation.
• The upcoming MILAN 24 will consist of both a harbour phase and a sea phase. MILAN 24 will
coincide with India G20 Presidency and the conduct of the exercise would yet again realise the 'G20

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theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. MILAN 24 is likely to witness the largest-ever participation to date
with invites being extended to over 50 countries.

"Sagar Kavach" on the Coast,Terrorists are challenged.


Forest Department, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Fisheries, Customs, Intelligence, Lighthouses, Ports,
and so on. In order to demonstrate India's defense capabilities in the coastal region, the ministries are
getting ready for the two-day Sagar Kavach on the 12th and 13th. Activities are carried out. Security
personnel have been stationed as part of this plan in the coastal regions of AP, Tamil Nadu, West
Bengal, Odisha, and Puducherry. Teams from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Coast Guard
conducted drills at fishing boat landing sites, mid-ocean locations, and islands.

India Likely to Sign Deal With US For 31 MQ-9B Drones By Feb 2024
• India is in the process of finalizing a significant defense deal with the United States. According to
reliable sources, the agreement involves the purchase of 31 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
from General Atomics (GA). This deal is expected to enhance India's military capabilities significantly.
• The deliveries will start from February 2027, three years after the contract's signing. The deal's
estimated cost is $3,072 million, and it follows the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route. The 31
drones are allocated for different branches of the Indian military: 15 for the Indian Navy and 8 each
for the Indian Army and Air Force.

The 21st edition of the India-France Military Sub Committee (MSC)


• The 21st edition of the India-France Military Sub Committee (MSC) meeting took place on October
16-17, 2023, at the Air Force Station in New Delhi. This crucial meeting was co-chaired by Air Vice
Marshal Ashish Vohra from the Indian side and Major General Eric Peltier from the French side.
• The India-France MC serves as a forum established to advance defense cooperation between India
and France. It facilitates regular discussions at both strategic and operational levels between the HQ
Integrated Defence Staff of India and the Joint Staff HQ of the French Armed Forces. The main aim of
this committee is to foster collaboration and strengthen the existing defense engagements between
the two countries.

"CHANAKYA DEFENCE DIALOGUE"


A unique forum where experts, academia, intelligentsia and representatives from around the globe
will ideate on global and regional security issues.
Indian Army is launching the Inaugural Edition of this flagship National Defence Dialogue in the first
week of November 2023.
Watch out for the "Curtain Raiser" on 26 Oct 2023 at Dr Ambedar International Centre, #NewDelhi.

Uttam and Angad will be part of LCA Tejas!!


LCA Tejas (LCA Tejas) Mark 1 light combat aircraft, developed domestically in India, will be equipped
with the latest indigenous equipment... Defense Ministry sources revealed that the installation of
radar and electronic warfare equipment developed by India will begin soon... LCA Tejas Mark 1 fighter
aircraft is currently in service with the Indian Air Force. More Tejas will come in the future..
Responding to this, Defense Ministry sources revealed to an English newspaper that “the best AESA
radar system made in India, the Angad electronic warfare system has made rapid progress in
installation process.. These devices will soon be ready for connection with aircraft.."

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Of the 83 aircraft ordered so far...this domestic equipment will start from the 41st aircraft.. Many
research institutes DRDO's various will be a part of it.. Currently, the Ministry of Defense claims that
Uttam is showing excellent test results and if they are deployed on LCA aircraft, India will save several
hundred million rupees.

IMPHAL
The third stealth destroyer of Proiect 15B Class Guided Missile Destroyer 'IMPHAL' was handed over
to the Indian Navy by The Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai.
It is constructed using Indigenous Steel DMR 249A with an overall length of 164 meters and a
displacement of over 7,500 Tons. The Destroyer is amongst the largest Destroyers constructed in the
country.

Indian Army And Air Force Contingent Set Off For 'Exercise KAZIND-2023'
• A contingent from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, comprising 120 personnel, embarked on a
mission to Kazakhstan today. Their objective is to participate in the 7th edition of the Joint Military
'Exercise KAZIND-2023 This collaborative endeavor will take place in Otar, Kazakhstan, spanning
from 30th October to 11th November 2023.

Indian Navy conducts Security Exercise 'Prasthan' in AP's Kakinada


i.On October 20, 2023, a Security Exercise Prasthan 2023 was carried out by Commodore Rajneesh
Sharma Naval Officer-in-Charge (NOIC), Andra Pradesh under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command,
Indian Navy (IN) in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
ii. The exercise was conducted on the Rig ship Platinum Explorer of ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas
Corporation) and RG Fixed Oil Platform of Vedanta Ltd.
iii.IN is all set to host nine-day mega naval exercise namely 'Milan' from February 19 to 27, 2024 in the
Arabian Sea It will see the see participation of over 50 countries including United States (US), Japan,
Australia, France, Bangladesh, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia will participate in this
exercise.

India Submits 'Letter of Request' To France For 26 Rafale-M Naval Fighter Jets
• India has taken a decisive step in enhancing its naval capabilities by submitting a Letter of Request
(LoR) to the French government. This formal communication signifies India's intent to acquire 26
Rafale Marine fighter aircraft for the Indian Navv.
• The aircraft procurement deal, valued at approximately Euro 5.5 billion, received the green light
from the Defence Acquisition Council. This significant development occurred just before the visit of
the Indian Prime Minister to France, where he was a state guest for their Bastille Day parade in July.

IAF Deploys Three S-400 Missile Units Along China and Pakistan Borders
• The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken significant steps to bolster its air defense capabilities along the
borders with China and Pakistan by deploying three out of the five agreed-upon S-400 air defense
missile squadrons.
• In 2018-19, India entered into a crucial defense agreement with Russia to procure S-400 missiles
worth 35,000 crore, aiming to acquire a total of five squadrons of these advanced air defense systems.

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EU And India Conduct Maiden Joint Naval Exercise in The Gulf of Guinea
• In a significant display of international cooperation, India and the European Union (EU) recently
carried out their first joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Guinea, aimed at strengthening maritime
security in the region.
• On October 24, 2023, the Indian Navy’s INS Sumedha, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, joined forces with
ships from three EU member states in the Gulf of Guinea. The participating EU ships included the
Italian Navy Ship ITS Foscari, French Navy Ship FS Ventôse, and Spanish Navy Ship Tornado.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) And Safran to Make Aircraft Engine


• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Aircraft Engines, a leading French aero engine
design, development, and manufacturing company, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) aimed at fostering industrial cooperation and collaboration.
International
India has been re-elected as President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
Development (AIBD)
India has been re-elected as President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development
(AIBD) General Conference (GC) for the 3rd successive term. Previously India served as President of
AIBD GC in 2018-2021 and 2021 to 2023.
• India is set to lead the international organisation and will leverage itself as the broadcasting and
media hub across the Asia Pacific.
• Mayank Kumar Agrawal, Director General, Doordarshan is the president of AIBD GC.
AIBD GC and Associated Meetings 2023:
The AIBD GC and its Associated Meetings is the annual official gathering of AIBD.
• The GC is open to member countries, affiliates, partners, observers, and leading broadcasters by
invitation only.
HQ: KAULA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

India & Switzerland Celebrated 75 Yrs of Friendship


• India and Switzerland recently celebrated 75 years of their enduring friendship and fruitful
collaboration in a beautiful Kumaon village nestled in the Uttarakhand region of India.
• The three-day event, aptly named 'Swiss Himalayan Bounty,' unfolded last week at a charming
homestay in Satoli village, positioned at an altitude of 6,000 feet near Mukteshwar in the Nainital
district.

'India, Tanzania to Sign 15 Agreements with Eye On USD 10 Billion Trade


• India and Tanzania are set to boost their bilateral cooperation as Tanzanian President Sami Suluhu
Hassan visits India after an eight-year gap. The visit aims to elevate their relations to a strategic
partnership and enhance trade and investment ties.
• Tanzanian Foreign Minister January Yusuf Makamba anticipates the signing of 15 agreements
spanning government-to-government and private sector collaborations., Potential announcement of
an extension of an Indian-assisted water project in Tanzania and India's substantial contribution of
USD 1 billion for water proiects in Tanzania.

India-UAE Sign MoU in 7 Areas, with Emphasis on Space Technology, Renewable Energy, and AI
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

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during the 11th India-UAE high-level joint task force on investments in Abu Dhabi, the capital of
United Arab Emirates (UAE).
• India and the UAE have signed an MoU in seven areas such as supply chain resilience, renewable
energy and energy efficiency, health and life sciences, space systems, Al, Industry 4.0 and advanced
technologies, as well as standardisation and metrology.
• These MoUs align with the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA),
which aims to strengthen the UAE's role as a trade and logistics hub.

Sheikh Hasina Unveils Largest Project Built with Chinese Aid


• Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina marked a historic moment in the country’s infrastructure
development by inaugurating the 82-km Padma Bridge Rail Link. The inauguration ceremony took
place at Mawa Railway Station in Munshiganj.
• The Padma Bridge Rail Link stands out as the largest infrastructure project in Bangladesh financed
under Chinese preferential loans, with the Exim Bank of China providing a substantial loan of Tk
21,036.70 crore. This landmark initiative is poised to directly benefit 80 million people and could
potentially boost Bangladesh's economic growth by 1.5%.

Travel for LiFE initiative


The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is partnering with India to expand the Travel for LiFE
(Lifestyle of the Planet, for the Planet, and by the Planet) initiative across the Asia-Pacific region.
The Ministry of Tourism in India will establish a PATA desk to enhance engagement with PATA
regarding Travel for LiFE and other tourism-related cooperation.
About Travel for LiFE:
It is a sectoral program launched by the Ministry of Tourism in India in collaboration with the
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation
(UNWTO), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on September 27,2023, World
Tourism Day

Israel Imposes Total Siege on Gaza


• Hamas launched a surprise offensive, leading to Israeli airstrikes on Gaza.Dozens of Palestinians
killed and wounded, with over 570 casualties reported. More than 123,000 people displaced in Gaza
due to the conflict.
• Israel imposed a total siege on the Gaza Strip and cut off water supply following a surprise offensive
by Hamas. The conflict has escalated, causing civilian casualties and displacement.

Sri Lanka To Take Over as Chair Of Indian Ocean Rim Association


• Sri Lanka to take over as Chair of IORA for the next two years. Foreign Ministers of 16 countries will
attend IORA meeting in Colombo including Foreign Ministers of India, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Iran,
Malaysia, and South Africa.
• The IORA Council of Ministers meeting is the highest decision-making body of the Association. It is
held annually to discuss and decide on IORA priorities.
• The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is an intergovernmental organisation of 23 member states
and 11 dialogue partners from Africa, West Asia, South Asia, South-East Asia, and Oceania. It was
established in 1997 to promote regional cooperation and development.

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Russia approves termination of Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.
Following a period of intense tensions in the west, Russia has made. President Vladimir Putin's wishes
were fulfilled by the country' s parliament in passing a bill to abolish the Global Nuclear Test Ban
Treaty. The possibility exists for Putin that his parliament repeals the resolution passed in 2000 that
prohibited nuclear weapons testing as part of an international treaty. This was announced recently.
Despite the United States' signing of this Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, its Congress has not ratified it, as he
pointed out. They stated that they're making the same choice.

Understanding The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) And Its Significance
• The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) recently convened its Council of Ministers meeting in
Colombo on October 11, drawing interest from countries worldwide. Its genesis can be traced back to
a speech by former South African President Nelson Mandela during a visit to India in 1995.
• With 23 member nations and 11 dialogue partners, IORA plays a crucial role in fostering regional
cooperation around the Indian Ocean. These countries include African, West Asian, South Asian, South
East Asian, Australian, and Indian Ocean littoral states.
• The Indian Ocean Region holds immense importance due to its geographical, economIc, and strategic
relevance. Approximately one-third of the world's population, totaling 2.6 billion people, resides in
this region.

S Jaishankar Unveils Mahatma Gandhi's Bust in Vietnam


• Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar embarked on a significant official visit to Vietnam.
This visit marked not only the strengthening of bilateral relations but also a celebration of the
enduring principles and values adopted by Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore.
• One of the prominent events during Jaishankar's visit to Vietnam was the unveiling ceremony of a
bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Ho Chi Minh City. In his address, Jaishankar emphasized the symbolic
importance of this event, highlighting Gandhi's global recognition for his principles of truth, non-
violence, and freedom.

Tallest BR Ambedkar Statue Outside India Unveiled in Washington


• In a historic event, a 19-foot-tall statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of India's
Constitution, was formally inaugurated in a suburb of Maryland, Washington.
• This statue is being considered as the tallest of its kind outside of India and holds significant
importance for both Indian-Americans and the Indian diaspora around the world.
• The statue was crafted by the renowned artist and sculptor Ram Sutar, who is known for creating
the 'Statue of Unity' of Sardar Patel, located on an island in Gujarat's Narmada River.

After 40 years ferry between India and Sri Lanka started


PM Modi participated virtually Passenger ferry between Nagapattinam Harbor in Tamil Nadu and
Kangesan Thurai Harbor in Sri Lanka has started. This service was canceled during the war in Sri
Lanka and revived after 40 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated and spoke at the launch
of this service virtually. He described the ferry journey as a milestone for the good relations between
India and Sri Lanka.

1971 Memorial in Bangladesh Honouring India Heroes


• A memorial dedicated to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War of

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Bangladesh in 1971 is nearly completion in Ashunganj, Bangladesh. This monument serves as a
symbol of solidarity and shared history between the two nations.
• The memorial, which is expected to be completed by December, will carry the names of around
1,600 Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971. This
marks the first time that Bangladesh is building a memorial exclusively to honor Indian soldiers who
plaved a pivotal role in the nation's quest for independence.

FATF Removes Cayman Islands from Its 'Grey List'


• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body responsible for setting
international standards to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing
has removed several countries from its 'grey list' while adding another.
• The FATF maintains a 'grey list,' which consists of jurisdictions that do not meet the organization's
anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CFT), and proliferation financing
standards. Countries placed on this list are subject to increased monitoring until identified
deficiencies in their regulatory frameworks are resolved.

National
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Unveils 15- Point Winter Action Plan to Combat Air Pollution
• Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, has unveiled a comprehensive 15-point winter action plan
aimed at addressing air pollution in the national capital, just in time for the festive season.
• This initiative is a response to the pressing need for cleaner air in Delhi, which has seen some
improvements in air quality metrics, including reductions in PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels.

Ken-Betwa River linking.


The Ken-Betwa Link Proiect (KBLP), a major irrigation project in India, has recently secured its final
forest clearance after six years.
• The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) is a river interlinking project that aims to transfer surplus water
from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh (MP) to Betwa in Uttar Pradesh (UP). The proiect is the first
under the National Perspective Plan for the interlinking of rivers.
• The KBLP aims to irrigate the drought prone Bundelkhand region. The dam will be built within
Panna Tiger Reserve and will generate 103 MW of hydroelectric power.

RITES Ltd Granted 'Navratna' Status: India's 16th Central Public Sector Enterprise
• RITES Ltd, a prominent Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Railways, has
achieved the prestigious 'Navratna' status, becoming the 16th CPSE in India to be granted this
distinction.
• RITES Ltd is known for providing transport infrastructure consultancy, railway inspection, rolling
stock leasing and maintenance, and various related services.
The achievement of Navratna status acknowledges its contribution to the nation's growth and
development.

Yogi Adityanath Declared Gangetic Dolphin as State Aquatic Animal of UP


Chief Minister (CM of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Yogi Adityanath has declared the Ganges River Dolphin
(Platanista gangetica) as the state aquatic animal.
About Gangetic Dolphin:

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i.Gangetic dolphins live in the Ganga, Yamuna, Chambal, Ghaghra, Rapti, and Gerua rivers in UP.
ii.Gangetic Dolphin are listed as Endangered in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) Red List.
ii. The Gangetic dolphin is a sensitive species that can tell us about the overall health of the Ganga
ecosystem and the other species that live there.
• It is very vulnerable to changes in water quality and flow.
Meri Ganga Meri Dolphin My Ganga, My Dolphin 2023 campaign:
In 2010, the Ministry of Environment and Forests notified the Ganges River Dolphin as the National
Aquatic Animal.

Bihar Govt Announces 10% Reservation for EWS In Judicial Services


• The Bihar government has unveiled a 10% reservation quota for people falling under the
Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category in the state's judicial services, as well as in government-
run law colleges and universities.
• The decision to implement this reservation stems from the state's commitment to promote social
equality and provide opportunities to those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The
recent caste-based revealed key survey demographic insights, highlighting the need for targeted
affirmative action.

PUSA-44 paddy variety


The Puniab Chief Minister has announced a ban on the cultivation of the PUSA-44 paddy variety
starting next year.
PUSA-44 was developed in 1993 and gained immense popularity among Punjab's farmers, covering 70
to 80 per cent of the state's paddy cultivation area due to its high yield.

'A-HELP' program
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, introduced the 'A-HELP'
(Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) program in the state of
Jharkhand.
• This program aims to empower women by engaging them as Accredited Agents who play a vital role
in disease control, animal tagging, and livestock insurance.
The 'A-HELP' initiative is being implemented in various Indian states and union territories, including
Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand,
through an MoU between the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying and the National Rural
Livelihoods Mission.

Uttarakhand CM Launches App & Portal to Boost Self-Employment


The state government of Uttarakhand took a significant step towards empowering its youth by
launching the 'Yuva Uttarakhand mobile application.' The primary objective of this innovative app is
to provide valuable information about self-emplovment opportunities to the state's unemployed
youth.

One Nation One Student ID Card APAAR


• The Ministry of Education and Government of India has initiated the APAAR ID, known as the "One
Nation One Student ID Card." This groundbreaking program aims to digitally centralize academic data,
including degrees, scholarships, rewards, and other credits for students.

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• The One Nation One Student ID Card,APAAR ID, is a significant step towards a more organized and
accessible academic experience for students in India. By registering and downloading your APAAR ID,
one can unlock various benefits and conveniently store his/her academic records.

Dhordo
Dhordo in Gujarat has been honoured as the "Best Tourism Village" by the UNWTO.

'Operation Chakra-2' against cyber criminals


▪ CBI searches at 76 places across the country
▪ Already registered five cases of financial fraud
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched Operation Chakra-2 to target cybercriminals
involved in financial crimes. As part of this, searches were conducted at many places across the
country.

IRCTC Partners With Zomato for Delivery Of Pre-Booked Meals


• In a significant development for train travelers in India, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism
Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) has joined forces with the popular food delivery platform,Zomato. This
strategic alliance aims to enhance the dining experience of railway passengers by offering a wider
array of food options through IRCTC's E-Catering segment.
• The collaboration aims to cater to the diverse culinary preferences of railway passengers, ensuring
they have access to a variety of meals that suit their tastes and dietary requirements. The partnership
is set to provide travelers with increased choices, convenience, and, ultimately, a more enjoyable and
comfortable journey.

Tamil Nadu’s AI-Powered Elephant Protection System Aims to Prevent Train Collisions
• Tamil Nadu is nearing the completion of its pioneering artificial intelligence (AI)-based early
warning system designed to safeguard wild elephants from train collisions. This innovative project is
being implemented along the Ettimadai-Walayar railway section, serving as an additional layer of
protection for these majestic pachyderms.
• The Forest Department has successfully installed 12 e-surveillance towers for this groundbreaking
project, divided between the 'A' and 'B' lines of the twin single line railway. Thermal imaging cameras
have been affixed to all towers along the 'A' line, while the 'B' line is currently undergoing camera
installation and networking-related tasks.

'Mission Mahila Sarathi' in UP... 51 bus drivers are women!


'Mission Mahila Sarathi' started in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh state. CM Yogi Adityanath flagged off all 51
bus services of the State Road Transport Corporation. It is noteworthy that all the drivers and
conductors are women. CM Yogi Adityanath spoke after the inauguration ceremony at Ramkatha Park.
He said that the State Road Transport Corporation has proved that the opinion that women cannot do
all the jobs is wrong. It is a matter of pride that women excel as drivers and conductors.

Kerala Gets Its First 3D-Printed Building in Just 28 hours


• Kerala has marked a significant milestone in the world of construction with the inauguration of
Amaze-28, the state's first building constructed using 3D printing technology.
• This innovative architectural wonder, with its 380-square-foot, one-room summer house, was
unveiled in the Kerala State Nirmithi Kendra (Kesnik) campus at PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram.

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• Amaze-28's construction process comprised a mere 28 hours of 3D printing, with the remaining
components, such as windows and roofing, completed using conventional methods. The technology's
primary advantage is its unprecedented speed.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates New Facilities at NIMHANS & unveils New
Logo of Tele-MANAS
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) inaugurated
new facilities at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru,
Karnataka and launched the new logo of Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States
(Tele MANAS)
• These events happened on 31st World Mental Health Day which was observed on 10th October
2023.
New facilities at NIMHANS:
The new facilities at NIMHANS include the Platinum Jubilee Auditorium and Academic facility, the
New Administrative Office complex, and the Centre for Brain and Mind.
About NIMHANS:
i.NIMHANS is a premier medical institute in India for mental health care, education, and research.
ii.NIMHANS came into existence in 1974 by amalgamating Mysore Government Mental Hospital and
All India Institute of Mental Health.

Union Minister Arjun Munda Inaugurated Aadi Mahotsav in Jharkhand


On 7th October 2023, Union Minister Arjun Munda, Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) inaugurated
"Aadi Mahotsav" - the National Tribal Festival, organised by Tribal Cooperative Marketing
Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED), at Jamshedpur, Jharkhand.
• The event will be held from 7th to 16th October 2023 commemorating the celebration of Azadi Ka
Amrit Mahotsav.
Aadi Mahotsav:
i.Aadi Mahotsav is an annual initiative of MoTA to celebrate tribal entrepreneurship, crafts, culture,
cuisine, commerce and traditional art.
ii.It is a crucial platform for showcasing the rich and diverse heritage of India tribes to a national and
international audience.
iii. The 2023 Aadi Mahotsav will showcase the talents of 336 tribal artisans and artists, including
members of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) and Van Dhan Vikas Kendra (VDVK)
beneficiaries.

Mera Yuva Bharat


The Union Cabinet has granted approval for the establishment of "Mera Yuva Bharat" (MY Bharat). MY
Bharat, an autonomous body will benefit youth in the age group of 15-29 years, in line with the
definition of 'Youth' in National Youth Policy.
• The primary objective of MY Bharat is to serve as a comprehensive platform for youth development
across the government.
• It is set to be dedicated to the nation, in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary.
• This platform will function as a one-stop solution for engaging with youth and promoting initiatives
designed to benefit them.

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'Makhir' ginger
Trinity Saioo, the 2021 Padma Shri winner known as the "Turmeric Trinity," who was recognized for
her work in promoting Lakadong turmeric cultivation in Meghalaya, is now focusing on promoting the
unique "Makhir" ginger of the state.
• Makhir ginger is known for its distinct pungency and medicinal properties. Meghalaya is home to
two popular types of ginger, Makhir and Nadia, both known for their health benefits despite their
small size.
About Lakadong turmeric:
• Under the "One District One Product" scheme, Lakadong turmeric gained recognition in the West
Jaintia Hills district.
• It is distinguished by its high curcumin levels and antioxidant properties.

Goa CM Pramod Sawant Launches 'Swayampurna e-bazaar.'


Goa Chief Minister (CM) Pramod Sawant launched the 'Swayampurna e-bazaar', an online platform to
sell products across India made by self-help groups, local artisans, and women of Goa.
• The Goa government is set to provide training at the panchayat level through Swayampurna Mitras
on the packaging of items for sale through the Swayampurna e-bazaar portal.

Norway To Support India's 'Hunger Project' In Uttarakhand


• Norway has embarked on a significant initiative to support India's 'Hunger Project' in Uttarakhand.
With a budget of 344.7 million and a three-year duration until September 2026, this project aims to
empower women leaders, enhance food security, and protect the environment, particularly in the
ecologically sensitive region of Uttarakhand.

Ericsson Sets up 6G R&D Centre in Chennai, TN


Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, commonly known as Ericsson, Swedish telecommunication
company, has announced setting up a 6G Research and Development (R&D) centre in Chennai, Tamil
Nadu (TN) Ericsson is also looking to partner with premier engineering institutes in India for 6G-
related research.

Kasturi Cotton Bharat


The Union Minister of Textile, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public
Distribution, launched the website for "Kasturi Cotton Bharat."
• This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Textiles, the Cotton Corporation of India, trade bodies,
and the industry, aims to enhance the competitiveness of Indian cotton in the global market.
• It focuses on self-regulation for branding, traceability, and certification of Indian cotton.

Uttarakhand CM launches Nandagaura Yojana Portal for Girls


On October 22, 2023, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, launched the
Nandagaura Yojana Portal, an online facility to be annually available to about 50 thousand girls who
are permanent residents of Uttarakhand.
About Nandagaura Yojana:
i.It allows girls in Uttarakhand to apply for financial assistance.
ii. It aims to improve the gender ratio and education of girls.
iii. Under this scheme, eligible parents will get Rs 11,000 at the time of birth of the girl child and later
the girl child will receive Rs 51,000 on clearing class XII.

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PM Modi to Attend The Installation Of Lord Ram's Idol At Avodhva Temple On January 22
• The Shri Ram Janambhoomi Trust extended a significant invitation to Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, asking him to attend the installation of Lord Ram's idol in the 'Garbhagriha' of the Ram Mandir
at the Ayodhya temple, which Prime Minister Modi politely accepted.
• With the ground-level construction of the three-story Ram temple now completed, the temple trust
has chosen Makar Sankranti, January 14, as the date for the commencement of Ram Lalla's
consecration.

Jai Bhim Mukhyamatri Pratibha Vikas Yojna Launched by Delhi Government


• The Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi is inviting applications from eligible
students belonging to SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories for free coaching under the "Jai Bhim Mukhyamatri
Pratibha Vikas Yoina." This initiative aims to provide coaching for various competitive examinations
and entrance tests.

Google Partners with FACE to Take Down Illegal Loan Apps from Play Store in India
Google has partnered with the Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment (FACE) to take down
illegal digital lending apps on Play Store in India.
• This partnership was announced during the 9th annual Google for India (2023) event held on 19th
October 2023 in New Delhi, Delhi.
• FACE is an industry association and self-regulatory organization for digital lenders.

Science & Technology


WHO recommends R21/Matrix-M, Malaria vaccine by Oxford & Serum Institute
World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended R21/Matrix-M, the new malaria vaccine
developed by Jenner Institute at Oxford University (the United Kingdom -UK) and Serum Institute of
India (SII) Private Limited leveraging Novavax's adjuvant technology, for the prevention of malaria in
children.
• The vaccine was developed with the support of the European and Developing Countries Clinical
Trials Partnership (EDCTP), the Wellcome Trust, and the European Investment Bank (EIB)
• The recommendation follows advice from the WHO: Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on
Immunization (SAGE) and the Malaria Policy Advisory Group (MPAG).

R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine


The R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of
India (SII), leveraging Novavax's adiuvant technology, has been recommended for use by the WHO.

2040: Indian Astronaut to the Moon


Scientists were tasked by Prime Minister Modi to devise a plan to launch an Indian astronaut to the
moon by 2040. He also requested that scientists construct an Indian Space Station by 2035, according
to an ISRO release. These remarks were made by Prime Minister Modi at a review meeting regarding
the Gaganyaan Mission's readiness. During that discussion, Prime Minister Modi issued directives for
upcoming Rodasi programs. The Prime Minister stated that an Indian man should be sent to the Moon
by 2040 and that the Indian Space Station should be established by 2035 during the meeting's
discussion of the Venus Orbiter Mission and Mars Lander.
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ISRO - Launch Pad
ISRO is establishing a second spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Small
Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) developed by the private sector.
This spaceport will be operational in about two years and will exclusively serve the private sector,
with no ISRO rocket launches planned from there.
The SSLV is a cost-effective, flexible launch vehicle capable of deploying around 500kg satellites in a
500-km orbit.
Additionally, a small space manufacturing park is planned near the spaceport, offering further support
to private sector initiatives.

ISRO Tie-Up with Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) For 'Space On Wheels' Exhibition
• The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) have joined hands to
create an exciting and educational initiative called the "Space on Wheels" program. This program is
designed to take the wonders of space exploration to the East Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh,
making it accessible to students and space enthusiasts in the region.
• The program was inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor of Arunachal Pradesh University, Prof Tomo
Riba, along with the presence of JN College Principal Dr. Tasi Taloh and the national coordinator of the
Space on Wheels program, Akash Pandey.The program saw more than 800 students from various
educational institutions actively engage with the Wheels" exposition

Diabetes diagnosed verbally!


Simply record your speech and complete the test to find out if you have diabetes or not! This is
feasible, according to a new study on voice technology assisted by artificial intelligence. If a person
speaks for six to ten seconds and provides basic health information, scientists from Click Labs in
America claim that they can determine if they have type 2 diabetes or not. According to a study that
was published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings: Digital Health journal, speech technology could
accurately diagnose diabetes in 86 percent of men and 89 percent of women.

Oxygen-18N enriched water tests successful.


Successful tests have been conducted on water enriched in oxygen-18N, which is highly beneficial for
cancer patients' diagnosis and treatment as well as for studying biochemical processes in the body. All
the tests were recently carried out in Mumbai. American scientists also tested. All were successful.
Renowned scientist Dr. R. K. To this effect, Vatsa released a statement. Bharjala's Ashwapuram plant
has made a significant breakthrough. Until recently we used to import oxygen-18N enriched water
from Australia. A liter can be purchased for Rs.2 crores in the foreign market. Our product's success
and commercial viability are due to its international quality and standards. The nation will move
towards self-reliance in this matter. Last year, the Bharjala plant installed its first oxygen-18 water
plant, which was developed using indigenous technology. The current production capacity is 10 litres.

Rare Guyon Bar disease threat with covid


Israeli medical researchers have said that there's also a risk of contracting the extremely rare type of
Guy's Bar syndrome within six weeks of contracting Covid. A disease in which a person's immune
system turns on their neurons is called Guyon Bar Syndrome. It's a rare disease affecting only 20 out
of 10 lakh people every year. The researchers said that mRNA vaccines can prevent the risk of
contracting the disease after the arrival of Covid. Patients who have recently been infected with Covid-
19 are six times more likely to develop Guillain-Barré syndrome. 12 percent of patients with pre-

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existing disease developed covid, while only 2 percent of those who didn't have Guyon Bar disease
developed covid. The risk of Geon's Bar is halved in those who have recently received the mRNA
vaccine. When Gyan Bar is infected, the legs feel numb. Gradually the symptom spreads to the hands
and face. It can lead to complete paralysis in a very few people. Breathing problems also arise.
However, the World Health Organization says that many people who suffer from Gyan Bar make a full
recovery.

Aligarh Muslim University to Launch Its Own Satellite, Gets Nod From IN-SPACe
• Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has embarked on a groundbreaking space initiative, the 'SS AMU
SAT' project, approved by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN- SPACe).
• Led by AMU's Robo Club, this initiative aims to develop a 3U CubeSat, marking the first satellite
named after AMU's founder, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.

Wild chimpanzees show evidence for menopause.


Research has suggested that only humans and some species of toothed whales live many years of
active life after the loss of reproductive ability. A new study shows female chimpanzees in Uganda
show signs of menopause - surviving long past the end of their ability to reproduce.
Constitution & Politics
Tripura Became 4th State in India to Introduce E- Cabinet System
Tripura Chief Minister (CM) Manik Saha launched an e-cabinet (electronic cabinet) system at Agartala,
(the capital of) Tripura to promote digital infrastructure development and digitization of government
services and information.
• With this, Tripura has become the 4th state in India (after Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and
Arunachal Pradesh) and 2nd state in northeast to implement the e-cabinet system.
• It is modelled on the e-cabinet system of Uttarakhand.
• The move is aligned with the Digital India initiative.
•The shift will increase transparency, efficiency, and accountability of the state government.
About e-cabinet system:
i. The e-cabinet system is a paperless system of conducting cabinet meetings.
ii.All cabinet ministers and bureaucrats will use tablets to access the system, which will contain all the
necessary meeting materials, such as agendas, presentations, and cabinet notes.
iii. Since the process is paperless, this reduces the carbon footprint and environmental degradation.

President Appoints Raghubar Das as Governor of Odisha & Indra Sena Reddy Nallu as Governor
of Tripura
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, has appointed former Chief Minister (CM) of Jharkhand,
Raghubar Das(68 years old), as the 26th Governor of Odisha and Telangana Bharatiya Janata Party
(BJP) leader Indra Sena Reddy Nallu(73) as 20th Governor of Tripura with effect from the date they
assume charge.
• Raghubar Das will succeed Ganeshi Lal who has been serving as the Governor of Odisha since 2018.
• Indra Sena Reddy Nallu will succeed Satvadeo Narain Arya who has been serving as the Governor of
Tripura since 2021.

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'Abortion for 26 weeks pregnant'.. The Supreme Court dismissed the petition.
The Supreme Court dismissed a petition filed by a 26-week pregnant woman to allow abortion. "If she
is allowed to have an abortion now, it will be a violation of Sections 3 and 5 of the MTP, 1971 Act. The
court said that it is up to the parents to adopt the child or not. Meanwhile, the petitioner had earlier
requested to allow the abortion as she was suffering from post-partum psychosis.

Supreme Court: No discrimination against homosexuals


On petitions asking for same-sex weddings to be legalized, the Supreme Court rendered a decision. On
the petitions, a five-judge court rendered four different decisions. "Amending the special marriage
statute is the responsibility of Parliament. Laws are not made by courts. The wealthy and the
metropolis are not the only places where homosexuality is prevalent. Parliament determines whether
or not the marriage legislation has to be changed. There should be no discrimination against
homosexuals. Everyone ought to get the same treatment. Gay and straight couples are excellent
parents. The CJI stated, "The law does not believe so."

The right to privacy is violated by recording phone calls.


According to Article 21 of the Constitution, it is clearly against the right to privacy to record a phone
conversation without the other party's knowledge, as stated by the Chhattisgarh High Court.

Supreme Court Holds That Senior Advocate Status Is Constitutional


A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) contesting certain attorneys' senior advocate status was dismissed
by the Supreme Court. It is evident from the Advocates Act of 1961 that Senior Advocate status is
constitutionally recognized. It further stated that senior advocate position is awarded under a
controlled and non-arbitrary process. It is appropriate to categorize advocates as senior or non-
senior. The bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sudhanshu Dhulia, and C.T. Ravikumar stated....

Four judges were sworn in to serve on the AP High Court.


On October 21, the newly appointed Additional Judges of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, Nyapati
Vijay, Kiranmayi Mandava, Sumati Jagadam, and Harinath Nunepalli, took their oath of office. They
were given an oath at Thummalapalli Kalakshetra in Vijayawada by Governor Justice Abdul Nazir.
Judges, Chief Medical Officer Jagan, and other guests attended the program.

Additional Solicitor General B. Narasimha Sharma


The Center has appointed senior advocate B.Narasimha Sharma as Additional Solicitor General in the
Telangana High Court by order. He represented the Center in significant lawsuits. In 1982, Narasimha
Sharma joined the Bar Council as a member. The Supreme Court designated him as a senior advocate
in December 2022, after he began his legal career at the AP High Court.

Bharat instead of India in textbooks


With the Centre already giving clear signals on the country's name change, the work of erasing the
name of 'India' has gained momentum. The National Council of Educational Research and Training
(NCERT) has recommended that India’s name be removed from school textbooks that introduce the
country's history and culture to the new generation and include 'Bharat'.

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Economy
UNCTAD Raises India's 2023 Growth Estimate To 6.6%
• In its latest trade and development report, the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
has revised India's economic growth forecast for 2023 upward to 6.6% from the earlier projection of
6%.
• However, the report also anticipates a slowdown in India's growth to 6.2% in 2024. Furthermore,
the UNCTAD highlights concerns about the global economic outlook, with a deceleration to 2.4% in
2023, followed by a marginal improvement to 2.5% in 2024.

World Bank Retains India's FY24 GDP Growth At 6.3% Amidst Challenges
• Despite substantial external challenges, India's economy remains robust, prompting the World Bank
to maintain its growth forecast for the fiscal year 2023-24 at 6.3%. This decision reflects India's
remarkable resilience within a demanding global environment.
• India's economic resilience is underpinned by key factors, including strong domestic demand,
significant public infrastructure investments, and a strengthening financial sector. Notably, bank
credit growth surged to 15.8% in the first quarter of FY23/24, indicating a healthy financial
environment.
• Auguste Tano Kouame, the World Bank's Country Director in India, emphasized the need for
stimulating private investments through public spending. Creating favorable conditions for India to
leverage global opportunities is crucial for achieving higher growth in the future.

PM SVANidhi Scheme Surpasses 50 Lakh Beneficiaries Mark


• The Prime Minister Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi, or PM SVANidhi scheme, has achieved a
significant milestone by aiding over 50 lakh street vendors across the country. Street vendors have
long been essential contributors to the urban informal economy, offering vital goods and services to
urban residents.
• Administered under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, this scheme has been instrumental in
integrating street vendors into the formal economic sector, offering them new opportunities for
upward mobility.
• Launched on June 1st, 2020, the PM SVANidhi Scheme is a micro-credit initiative aimed at providing
collateral-free working capital loans of up to 50 thousand rupees to urban street vendors. This
visionary scheme not only bolsters the livelihoods of street vendors but also contributes to the
formalization of the urban informal economy, aligning with the government's broader economic goals.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced its fourth bi-monthly monetary policy.
The RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on October 4-6,
2023, decided to keep the rates and stance unchanged. i.Policy Repo Rate: For the 4th time in a row,
the MPC has opted to keep the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF)
unchanged at 6.50%.
• The last adjustment to this rate was a 25-basis point increase to 6.50% during the February 2023
meeting.
• RBI Governor pointed out that the full transmission of 250 basis points repo rate reduction is still
pending.

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ADB Approves USD 200 Million for Flood & Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project in
Assam
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 200 million loan to strengthen flood and
riverbank erosion risk management along the 650-kilometer (km) long main stem of the Brahmaputra
River in Assam, India.
• The Project activities will be led, managed, and coordinated by the Flood and River Erosion
Management Agency of the Assam Government.
• The Water Resources Department of the Government of Assam will implement the works and the
Assam Agroforestry Development Board will use nature-based solutions.
Objective: The primary goal is to address recurrent flooding and continual riverbank erosion along the
Brahmaputra River.

America is India's largest trading partner.


America became India's largest trading partner in the first half of this financial year. It is noteworthy
that trade with the US continues to improve despite the negative developments such as global
economic uncertainties, decline in exports and imports. According to the details of the Commerce
Department, the bilateral trade between the two countries has decreased by 11.3 percent to 59.67
billion dollars. At the same time last year, the trade value was 67.28 billion dollars.

India's growth forecast


Deloitte India 2023, on October 21, predicted that the Indian economy could grow by 6.5-6.8 percent
in the current financial year (2023-24). India needs to grow at least 6.5 percent annually to become
the world's third largest economy with a GDP of $5 trillion by 2027, it said. 8-9 percent economic
growth is required to become a developed country by 2047.
According to FICCI survey, the growth rate of our country may be recorded at 6.3 percent in the
financial year 2023-24. It explained that the GDP growth could be at least 6 percent and maximum 6.6
percent.

ADB approved USD 181 Million to Improve Services in Peri-Urban Areas of Ahmedabad
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan worth USD 181 million to build infrastructure
and services and strengthen urban management in the peri-urban areas of Ahmedabad, Gujarat to
control urban sprawl.
Scenario in Ahmedabad:
i.Ahmedabad is expanding horizontally to adjoining areas (peri-urban areas) due to rapid industrial
growth.
ii. Since peri-urban areas are unplanned smaller urban local bodies (ULBs), it can't accomodate the
high population due to urbanisation.
iii.Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) which is responsible for planning of those
areas, identified five growth centers surrounding Ahmedabad city.
• Ahmedabad Peri-urban LivabilityImprovement Project was created with an aim to provide basic
infrastructure in these growth centres.

Global digital transactions are set to cross 1.3 Trillion.


Global digital transactions set to cross 1.3 trillion New digital payment methods like e-money and
digital transactions volume to reach 2.3 trillion by 2027, growing at a rate of 15% annually Traditional

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non-cash payments like cheque and direct debits expected to fall to 70% of total non-cash transaction
volumes by 2027.

India Ranks Third in Fintech Unicorns, With United States at The Top
• According to global research firm Statista, India has secured the third position in the global fintech
landscape with 17 fintech unicorns. India's top profitable companies include Zerodha, Billdesk, Paytm,
and Paytm.
• The United States and the United Kingdom maintain their supremacy in terms of both quantity and
value. The US is home to an impressive 134 fintech unicorns, producing the highest value in the
industry. Meanwhile, the UK ranks second with 27 fintech unicorns, making a substantial mark on the
global fintech stage.

ADB Approves USD 400 Million Loan to Enhance Urban Services in India
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved USD 400 million policy-based loan to India to
enhance the infrastructure quality and provide assured public services and efficient governance
systems. The loan will be under Sub-programme 2 of ADB's Sustainable Urban Development and
Service Delivery Programme.
• Subprogram 2 will support investment planning and reform actions at the state and urban local
body (ULB) levels.
• It will be implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoH&UA) with guidance from
ADB.

ADB Approves USD 175 Million Loan to Upgrade Roads in Madhya Pradesh
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 175 million loan for 'India: Enhancing
Connectivity and Resilience of the Madhya Pradesh Road Network Project'.
The project aims to upgrade about 500 kilometers of state highways and major district roads to a
standard two-lane feature in Madhya Pradesh (MP).
Geography Related Issues
Hirakund Wetland
A study has revealed high levels of cancer-causing heavy metals, including lead and chromium, in
eight wetlands in Odisha, with Hirakud being one of them.
These heavy metals, which result from human activities such as urbanization, industrialization, and
agriculture, can enter crops through the soil and subsequently be consumed by humans.
The study also noted that the surrounding community indirectly consumes water from these wetlands
by consuming foods like fish, rice, vegetables, and spinach grown in them.

Kole Wetlands of Kerala


The Kole Wetlands of Kerala are facing threat from alien plants. Cabombafurcuta, commonly known as
pink bloom, due to its massive flowering.
It has been a new threat in addition to water hyacinth and Salvinia molest to the Kole wetlands.

BADIS LIMAAKUMI
•It is a new badis fish species discovered in Nagaland.
•They are predatory in nature, feeding on tiny freshwater invertebrates.
•It is locally known by many names, like "Tepdang" or "Akngashi (Chungli)"or "Aokngats (Mongsen)"

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or "Sempi" etc.

Protosticta Armageddonia: Pune researchers found new Damselfly Species in Western Ghats,
Kerala
Researchers from MIT-World Peace University (MIT-WPU) in Pune (Maharashtra) have discovered
Protosticta Armageddonia (Armageddon Reedtail), a new species of damselfly in the southern
Western Ghats of Kerala.
• They name "Armageddon" symbolizes the global crisis of habitat loss and climate change affecting
insect populations.
• The discovery of the new species has been documented in the International Journal of Odonatology.
It has also been recorded and registered with the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Pune.
• This new species, with its ominous name, serves as a clear reminder of the ongoing ecological crisis
powered by uncontrolled habitat loss and climate change.

Epithemis wayanadensis: New Dragonfly Species Found in Wayanad


Researchers have discovered a new species of colourful dragonfly in Wayanad, Kerala. The new
species, also known as "Red-rumped Hawklet", is given the scientific nomenclature "Epithemis
wayanadensis". It is named after its habitat "the Wayanad plateau", situated among the biodiverse
Western Ghats.
• The discovery of the new species is published in the peer-reviewed, open-access journal, Journal of
Asia-Pacific Biodiversity, by the Elsevier Group.

IMD Issues Alert for Cyclone Tej to Mumbai


• The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cautionary notice regarding a potential
cyclonic storm forming in the Arabian Sea. This impending weather event, likely to be named 'Cyclone
Tei, has the potential to impact Mumbai, Pune, and other regions of Maharashtra and the Konkan area.
• According to an IMD official, a cyclonic circulation has been observed over the southeast Arabian Sea
and the adjoining Lakshadweep region. However, the probability of this system intensifying into a
cyclonic storm is currently low.
• The IMD has issued a warning to fishermen in Maharashtra and South Gujarat, urging them to avoid
venturing into the sea until the situation becomes clearer.
This precautionary measure is essential to ensure the safety of those engaged in maritime activities.

Arunachal Cabinet Approves Formation of Special Tiger Protection Force For 3 Tiger Reserves
• The Arunachal Pradesh State Cabinet has given the green light for the establishment of a Special
Tiger Protection Force (STPF) for three tiger reserves, the allocation of honorariums to third language
teachers, the amendment of the state's industrial and investment policy, and the formulation of the
Arunachal Pradesh Home Guard Rules for 2023.
The state cabinet approved the formation of a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF). This specialized
force will be responsible for safeguarding the three tiger reserves in the state, namely Namdapha,
Pakke, and Kamlang. This initiative aims to reduce poaching and illegal activities in the tiger reserves,
ultimately securing the future of these critically endangered big cats.

Bufoides Bhupathyi:
New Toad Species Discovered in the Dampa Tiger Reserve of Mizoram Researchers from India and the

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United Kingdom have discovered a new toad species "Bufoides Bhupathyi" (Common name: Mizoram
rock toad) in the the Dampa Tiger Reserve (TR) of Mizoram.
• It is named after the S Bhupathy, a noted herpetologist who served as principal scientist at the
Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu)-based Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON).
• The findings were published in Biodiversitas, a journal published in Indonesia.
• Bufoides Bhupathyi belongs to the 'Bufonidae' family and the genus 'bufoides. Both frogs and toads
belong to the order "Anura", which means "without a tail.

If temperatures go up by 2 degrees, it can cause a heart attack.


According to a report, North India and East Pakistan will face severe consequences when the global
temperature increases by 2 degrees Celsius. The issue is not being solved yet. Due to this, about 220
crore people are likely to face extreme heat. This article appeared in Proceedings of the National
Academy of Sciences. People have been cautioned that extreme heat can result in sunstroke and heart
attacks, among other health complications. However. Even if the global temperature increases by 1
degree Celsius compared to the present, hundreds of crores of people will have to face extreme heat
and high humidity every year. Thus, they cannot cool themselves down.

New Mushroom Species Discovered in Western Ghats


• Researchers at the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI) in
Kerala, India, have identified a new species of mushroom, named Candolleomyces albosquamosus,
found on the JNTBGRI campus in the Western Ghats.
• The new species belongs to the genus Candolleomyces, a small genus with only 35 recognized
species globally. The discovery was published in the scientific journal Phytotaxa by researchers C. K.
Pradeep and P. K. Nayana from INTBGRI's Microbiology Division.

Gudavi Bird Sanctuary (Karnataka)


Several birds, including spoonbills, herons, and black-headed ibis, have suddenly died at Gudavi Bird
Sanctuary in Sorab taluk (Shimoga District in Karnataka) Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is a tourist
destination in the Malenadu region of Karnataka (part of Soraba Taluk of Shivamogga district). It is
located on the Gudavi Lake banks. Shivamogga is also famous for Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, and
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, northwest of Shivamogga is Jog Falls.

Sporanaerobium hydrogeniformans:
An Anaerobic, Hydrogen-Producing Bacterium Found in Aravali Hot Spring, Maharashtra Scientists
under the Bioenergy Group at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in Maharashtra, identified a New
Genus of anaerobic lignocellulose-degrading bacteria called Sporanaerobium hydrogen iformans in
the hot spring of Aravali, located in Ratnagiri district (Maharashtra). This bacteria has a remarkable
ability to produce hydrogen gas as a byproduct of its metabolic processes.
The hydrogen generated by these bacteria could be a source of clean and Renewable Energy. The
findings are published in the journal Archives of Microbiology.
Culture-History-Heritage
PROJECT UDBHAV
The Indian Army has started an initiative, named Project Udbhav, to rediscover the "profound Indic
heritage of stater-aft and strategic thoughts" derived from ancient Indian texts of "statecraft, warcraft,
diplomacy and grand strategy."

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Summits
All India Police Science Congress Kicked Off in Dehradun
• The 49th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC) organized by the Uttarakhand Police commenced
today, October 7th at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.
• With the theme of "Policing in Amrit Kaal," this annual event, held under the auspices of the Bureau
of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), promises to be a platform for insightful discussions on
various aspects of modern policing.
• The 49th AIPSC selected six compelling themes for discussion, each addressing vital challenges and
developments in contemporary policing. The 49th AIPSC is embracing technology for its management,
showcasing its forward-thinking approach.

Ninth G20 Parliamentary Speakers' Summit (P20) and Parliamentary Forum


• The Ninth P20 Summit, in collaboration with the International Parliamentary Union (IPU), is hosted
by the Parliament of India. This significant event will take place in New Delhi on 13-14 October 2023,
with a Pre-Summit Parliamentary Forum scheduled for 12 October 2023.
• The summit's theme, "Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future," derives its essence from
the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the
world as one family.

54th International Film Festival of India To Take Place From November 20 To 28


• The 54th edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI), known for its celebration of cinema
from around the world, is scheduled to take place from November 20 to 28 in the beautiful coastal
state of Goa.
• India has been the host of 53 International Film Festivals of India (IFFI) since 1952, which have
included both competitive and non-competitive segments. Starting in 1975, the festival became an
annual event. The upcoming 54th edition of the festival, featuring a competition for feature films by
directors from all continents, is set to take place in Goa.

Natural rubber
The annual rubber conference of the Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ARPC) took
place in Guwahati.
Issues faced in Rubber Industry:
• Mechanization in rubber plantations, sustainable agricultural practices, supply chain strengthening,
and value addition for rubber wood to ensure the sustainability of rubber farming.

Indian Space Conclave 2023 held in Delhi; ISpA & France's GIFAS Inked MoU to Boost Space
Industry
From October 9 to 11, 2023, the 2nd edition of annual Indian Space Conclave (ISC 2023) was held at
Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Delhi. The conclave was organized by Indian Space Association
(ISpA).
• It was co-hosted by Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), an
autonomous agency in the Department of Space (DOS).
• The theme of ISC 2023 is 'Bhumandal se Brahaman Tak' (From Earth to the EntireUniverse):

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On the first day of ISC 2023, ISpA and GIFAS (Groupement des Industries Françaises Aéronautiques et
Spatiales) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the understanding of space
industry capabilities and increase awareness of business opportunities in France and India
About Indian Space Association (ISpA):
Director General- Lt Gen Anil Kumar Bhatt (Retd)
Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi Establishment- 2021

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Inaugurates 16th Urban Mobility India Conference &
Exhibition 2023 In New Delhi
• In a significant event held in New Delhi, Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister, Hardeep Singh
Puri, inaugurated the 16th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition 2023, with the theme,
"Integrated and Resilient Urban Transport".
• The event, organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in collaboration with the Institute
of Urban Transport (India) and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd., aims to address critical aspects
of urban transportation in the country.

PM Modi Inaugurated The 7th Edition of Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) In New Delhi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 7th Edition of the India Mobile Congress at Bharat
Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. This prestigious event brought together leading figures from
the telecommunications industry to showcase cutting-edge technologies, discuss vital issues, and
promote innovation.
• During the event, Akash Ambani introduced Reliance Jo's groundbreaking initiative - Space Fibre,
India's first satellite-based giga fibre service capable of delivering internet speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
Furthermore, the Jio Bharat device, offering 4G services, was on display at the Jio pavilion.
Persons In New’s
Pro-China Leader Mohamed Muizzu Wins Maldives Presidential Election
• Mohamed Muizzu, the candidate from the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), emerged victorious
in the presidential polls after a runoff vote. This victory came after a first round of polling failed to
produce a Clear winner.
• Muizzu secured more than 53 percent of the vote in the runoff, defeating the incumbent president,
Ibrahim Soli. President Ibrahim Solih gracefully conceded defeat and congratulated Muizzu on his
victory.
• Muizzu, currently serving as the mayor of the capital city, Male, is a well-educated leader with a
doctorate in civil engineering from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom. He previously held
the position of Minister of Housing in former President Abdulla Yameen's cabinet.

Ramaswamy N Appointed as Chairman And Managing Director Of GIC Re


• On October 4, 2023, the General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re) made a significant
announcement regarding the appointment of its new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD),
Ramaswamy N. This appointment is effective from October 1, 2023.
• The appointment of Ramaswamy N follows the standard succession planning procedures as Devesh
Srivastava, the outgoing CMD, concluded his four-year term at the end of September 2023 upon
reaching the age of 60.

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Marico's Saugata Gupta named as ASCI Chairman
• Saugata Gupta, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Marico Ltd, has been appointed new
Chairman of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), at the board meeting of the self-
regulatory body. Gupta's association with ASCI spans several years, including two years on the Board
of Governors and four years as a special invitee on the Board of Governors.
• Partha Sinha, president of response, Bennett Coleman & Company Limited, was elected vice
chairman, and Sudhanshu Vats, deputy managing director, Pidilite Industries Ltd, was appointed
honorary treasurer.

Mukesh Ambani Surpasses Gautam Adani as India's Richest On Hurun List


• According to the 360 ONE Wealth Hurun India Rich List for 2023 released recently, Reliance
Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani has surged ahead of Adani Group's Gautam Adani to claim the
title of the richest Indian.
• Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, saw his wealth grow by a modest 2 percent,
reaching a staggering Rs 8.08 lakh crore. This significant wealth increment has solidified his position
as the wealthiest individual in India.

Sanskrit Scholar & Padma Shri Awardee Dahyabhai Karunashankar Shastri Passed Away
Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Dahyabhai Karunashankar Shastri, a renowned Indian Sanskrit scholar and
founder of Brahmarshi Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya, Nadiad (Gujarat), has passed away at the age of 98 in
Nadiad, Gujarat. He was born on 26 February 1926 in Mehsana, Gujarat.
About Dr. Dahyabhai Karunashankar Shastri: i.Dr. Shri Dahyabhai Karunashankar Shastri was a
distinguished Sanskrit scholar in India, holding titles like Vyakaranacharya, Sahitacharya, and Hindi
Visharad.
ii. From January 19, 1950, he was engaged in teaching at Petlad Political Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya
school in Guiarat.

Nobel Prize-Winning Poet Louise Gluck Passes Away at 80


Celebrated poet Louise Gluck, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2020, has passed
away at the age of 80. The Swedish Academy, responsible for Nobel Prize selection, praised her poetry
for its unreserved examination of family and childhood with distinct and austere beauty. Louise
Gluck's work, often concise and poignant, was noted for its similarity to 19th-century American poet
Emily Dickinson in its severity and unwillingness to accept simple tenets of faith.

British Filmmaker Terence Davies Dies At 77


British filmmaker Terence Davies, known for his thought-provoking and introspective films, has sadly
passed away at the age of 77 at home after a short illness. He is recognized for his internationally
acclaimed films, including 'Distant Voices, Still Lives' and 'The Long Day Closes'.

MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi Appointed Permanent Representative of India to UN in


Geneva
Arindam Bagchi, Additional Secretary [External Publicity (XP)] and Spokesperson of the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA) has been appointed the next Ambassador/Permanent Representative of India
to the United Nations (UN) and other international organisations in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Arindam Bagchi is set to take over the post from Indra Mani Pandey, the incumbent Indian envoy to

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the UN in Geneva. Pandey has been holding the position since September 2020. and is now set to
return to New Delhi, Delhi after a three-year term.
About Arindam Bagchi:
i.He is a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) official, who took over as spokesperson of MEA in
March 2021.
ii.As MEA spokesperson, He has handled key issues and developments like eastern Ladakh border row
(2020-2021), India's COVID-19 response (2019), and New Delhi's G20 Presidency (2023).

Padma Vibhushan Awardee & 11th CEC of India MS Gill Passed Away
Padma Vibhushan Awardee and the 11th Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Dr.Manohar
Singh Gill (MS Gill), passed away in New Delhi, Delhi at the age of 87. He was born on June 14, 1936, in
undivided Punjab. He had a distinguished career as an Indian bureaucrat, politician, and writer.
About MS Gill:
i.MS Gill was a 1958 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of Punjab cadre.
• He served as Agriculture Secretary of Punjab from 1985 to 1987 and later as a Union Agriculture
Secretary in the 1990s.

Daniel Noboa as Ecuador's president


Daniel, a 35-year-old businessman, has been chosen to lead Ecuador as its new president. He defeated
"Gonzalez," his left-leaning opponent, in the by-elections. Noboa received 52% of the vote while
Gonzalez received 42% of the vote in the most recent results. Alvaro Noboa, Noboa's father, is the
wealthiest person in Ecuador. He ran five times for the presidency and lost each time.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Lukeson


The 53-year-old Christopher Lukeson will lead New Zealand as prime minister. In the election held on
October 14 under the proportional voting method, Luxon, the National Party candidate, received 40%
of the total votes cast. Only 25% of the votes were cast for the Liberal Party's prime competitor, Prime
Minister Chris Hipkins. It is possible that Lucan and the libertarian ACT Party may join forces to create
the government.

B K Mohanty Assumes Charge as Director Of Finance At IREDA


• Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohanty officially assumed the role of Director (Finance) at the Indian Renewable
Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA). The appointment of Dr. Mohanty as Director (Finance) of
IREDA was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
• In an order issued by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohanty was
appointed to the post for a period of five years from the date he assumed charge or until further
orders, whichever is earlier.
• Dr. Mohanty, a highly respected senior finance professional with an impressive career spanning over
25 years in the Indian power sector, brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that
promises to enrich IREDA's leadership.

Martti Ahtisaari, Former Finnish President & Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Passed Away
Nobel Peace Laureate, Martti Ahtisaari, who served as the 10th President of Finland (1994 to 2000),
passed away at the age of 86 in Helsinki, Finland. He was born on 23 June 1937, Vipuri (now Vyborg,
Russia), Finland.
About Martti Ahtisaari:

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i.MarttiAhtisaari joined the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland in 1965, holding various posts in
the Ministry's Bureau for Technical Co-operation from 1965 to 1972, and served as Assistant Director
from 1971 to 1972.
ii. He was also a member of the Government Advisory Committee on Trade and Industrialisation
Affairs of Developing Countries from 1971 to 1973.
iii. He assumed the role of the Ambassador of Finland to the United Republic of Tanzania from 1973 to
1976, with additional accreditation to Zambia, Somalia, and Mozambique from 1975 to 1976.
iv. He first served as a member of the Senate of the United Nations (UN) Institute for Namibia between
1975 and 1976.

Oscar & Emmy-Nominated American Actress Piper Laurie Passed Away


American actress Piper Laurie passed away in Los Angeles (LA), the United States of America (USA).
She was born "Rosetta Jacobs" in 1932 in Michigan, USA. She was nominated 9 times for an Emmy and
3 times for an Academy Award (Oscar).
• She got her first Oscar nomination in 1961 for the movie "The Hustler". Later she was nominated for
two more movies namely "Carrie," (1976) and "Children of a Lesser God" (1986)
• She won the Emmy Award in 1987 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Special
for "Promise Hallmark Hall of Fame".
• She also won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress in 1991 for her role in 'Twin Peaks'.

Dr Meenesh Shah Elected to Board Of International Dairy Federation


• Dr. Meenesh Shah, the Chairman and Managing Director of the National Dairy Development Board
(NDDB), has been elected to the Board of the International Dairy Federation (IDF) during the General
Assembly of IDF on October 15.
• Dr Shah has been associated with International Dairy Federation for a long.He is the Member
Secretary of the Indian National Committee and also a member of the Standing Committee on Dairy
Policy and Economics. He had also spearheaded the successful organisation of the World's largest
Dairy Conference - IDF WDS 2022 in India in September 2022, which was inaugurated by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi.
• The International Dairy Federation is the leading source of scientific and technical expertise for all
stakeholders of the dairy value chain. ID's network of dairy experts has provided a mechanism for the
dairy sector to reach a global consensus on how to help feed the world with safe and sustainable dairy
products.

Padma Shri Awardee and Spiritual Leader Bangaru Adigalar Passed Away
Padma Shri Awardee Arul Thiru Bangaru Adigalar, a Spiritual Leader and the founder of
Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Siddhar P eedam in Kancheepuram district (Tamil Nadu (TN)) passed
away at the age of 82 in Melmaruvathur, TN. He was born on 3 March 1941 in Melmaruvathur village.
Awards:
He was conferred with Padma Shri in 2019 for his spiritual services to society.

EC To Appoint Actor Rajkummar Rao as Its 'National Icon’


• Actor Rajkummar Rao, celebrated for his portrayal of a principled government clerk in the Hindi film
"Newton." tasked with conducting elections in the Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh, is set to be
inducted as a National Icon by the Election Commission (EC).
• Rajkummar Rao's portrayal in "Newton" resonated with audiences and critics alike.

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He essayed the character of an upright government official, undeterred by the adversities he faced
while striving to conduct a free and impartial election in the Naxal-affected regions of Chhattisgarh.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guter-res Launches Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence


• The United Nations, under the leadership of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, has taken a
significant step toward managing the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence (Al).
• To facilitate international cooperation and consensus on Al governance, a 39-member advisory body
has been established, comprising tech industry leaders, government officials, and academics from
diverse backgrounds.

Robert Fico formally appointed as PM of Slovakia


On 25th October 2023, the Zuzana Caputová, President of Slovakia, formally appointed Robert Fico as
the Prime Minister (PM) of Slovakia. He will succeed Ludovit Odor who has been serving as the
Interim PM of Slovakia since 15 May 2023 after the resignation of Eduard Heger as PM.
• This is the 3rd time Robert Fico will serve as the PM of Slovakia, after having served from 2006 to
2010 and from 2012 to 2018.
• He is the head of the current ruling pro-Russian party Slovak Social Democracy (SMER-SD).

Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, Ruler of Johor, Elected as 17th King of Malaysia
His Royal Highness (HRH) Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, the Ruler of the southern
Malaysian state of Johor, was elected as the 17th King of Malaysia, also known as Yang di-Pertuan
Agong (YDPA) XVII, for a term of 5 years, which will begin on 31st January 2024.
• He was elected by the Conference of Rulers during its 263rd (Special) meeting held at the National
Palace (Istana Negara) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
• He will replace incumbent Sovereign Al-Sultan Abdullah ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah, Ruler of Pahang
state, who has been serving as the 16th King since 2019.
His tenure is set to end on 30th January 2024.

ISB Prof Sarang Deo Appointed by WHO On Its TB Advisory Group


Professor Sarang De, a distinguished figure in the field of Operations Management and healthcare, has
been appointed as a member of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group (STAG) for Tuberculosis
by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Eminent Assamese Scholar & Padma Shri Awardee Birendra Nath Data Passed Away
Padma Shri Awardee Birendra Nath Data, an eminent Assamese scholar, Linguist, and Singer, passed
away at the age of 88 in Guwahati, Assam. He was born on March 1, 1935, in Nagaon, Assam.
About Birendra Nath Data:
i. He started his academic career as a lecturer at the B Borooah College in 1957 in Assam and later
served in various colleges of Assam. il.He retired as the esteemed Head of the Department (HOD) of
Folklore Research at Gauhati University (Guwahati, Assam) in 1995.

Renowned Bangladeshi Scientist Saleemul Hug Passed Away At 71


• Saleemul Huq, a Bangladeshi-British scientist who gained renown as a "climate revolutionary" for
his efforts to make high-polluting countries help the world's poorest and most vulnerable states deal
with the devastating impacts of climate change has passed away in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka. He
was 71.

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• Saleemul Huq was born in Karachi, Pakistan, on Oct. 2, 1952. He grew up in Europe, Asia, and Africa
due to his parents' diplomatic postings and moved to Britain in the 1970s to study at Imperial College
London, where he received a doctorate in botany in 1978.

Sanjay Kumar Jain appointed as CMD of IRCTC


Sanjay Kumar Jain has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Indian
Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC.
• His appointment has been approved after the recommendation of Serach-Cum-Selection Committee
(SCSC).
• The post was vacant since January 2021 after the retirement of Mahendra Pratap Maal.
• From June 2023, Seema Kumar who is the Additional Member (Tourism & Catering) is acting as CMD
(Additional Charge).

First Black Action Hero, Richard Roundtree Passed Away At 81


Richard Roundtree, the iconic actor who redefined African American masculinity in the movies with
his groundbreaking portrayal of the title role in "Shaft," passed away on Tuesday at his Los Angeles
home at the age of 81 due to pancreatic cancer.
He was also recognized as the "first black action hero."

Matthew Perry, Renowned for His Role as Chandler In 'Friends,' Died At 54


• "Friends" star Matthew Perry was found dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home.
He was 54. The iconic actor was known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing in the legendary TV series
"Friends."
• "Friends"revolved around the lives of six single New Yorkers as they navigated the challenges of
adulthood, creating a connection with viewers worldwide. Perry's portrayal of Chandler stood out in
the ensemble cast.

Matthew Perry, Renowned for His Role as Chandler In 'Friends,' Died At 54


• "Friends" star Matthew Perry was found dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home.
He was 54. The iconic actor was known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing in the legendary TV series
"Friends."
• "Friends “revolved around the lives of six single New Yorkers as they navigated the challenges of
adulthood, creating a connection with viewers worldwide. Perry's portrayal of Chandler stood out in
the ensemble cast.
Sports
Indian Men's Football Team Wins SAFF Under-19 Championship
• India won the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Championship after defeating
Pakistan 3-O in a dominating display in the finals at the Dashrath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu,
Nepal. It was India's eighth youth title in the SAFF championships, a clear testimony of their regional
supremacy.
• Most Valuable Player was Manglenthang Kipgen (IND). Best Goalkeeper was Lionel Daryl Rymmei
(IND). Top Scorers of the Tournament (all 3 goals) are:
1. Gwgwmsar Goyary (IND)
2. Jigme Namgyal (BHU)
3. Samir Tamang (NEP)

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International Olvmpic Committee Announced the Winners of the Inaugural IOC Climate Action
Awards
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the winners of the inaugural IOC Climate
Action Awards, which recognise athletes, International Federations (IFs), and National Olympic
Committees (NOCs) for their efforts to combat climate change.
10C Climate Action Awards 2023 were awarded under 3 categories: sustainable travel, innovation,
and athlete advocacy.
The 2023 awards are supported by Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partners Airbnb, Deloitte and
Procter & Gamble (P&G).
Winners of the 2023 awards include Athletes Ben Blankenship (athletics, USA), Marcus Mepstead
(fencing, Great Britain) and Paloma Schmidt (sailing, Peru) and World Rugby, World Sailing, the
Colombian Olympic Committee, and the Spanish Olympic Committee.
The IOC Climate Action Awards were introduced in November 2022, with the goal of highlighting how
sport can play an essential part in addressing the climate issue.
About International Olympic Committee:
The International Olympic Committee is the administrator of the Olympic Games and the driving force
behind the Olympic Movement.
President - Thomas Bach
Headquarters - Lausanne, Switzerland Established - 1894

PM Modi To Inaugurate 141st IOC Session In Mumbai.


• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC)
session at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai on October 14.
• This marks India's second time hosting the IOC session, following a gap of nearly four decades since
the 86th IOC session was held in New Delhi in 1983. The previous event in New Delhi laid the
groundwork for the growth of sports in India.
• The IOC session serves as a pivotal platform for making critical decisions concerning the future of
the Olympic Games and facilitates interaction and knowledge exchange among stakeholders in the
world of sports. The event fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing among various stakeholders
in the sports world.

IOC & Reliance Foundation Signed Agreement for OVEP in India


The International Olympic Committee (IOC) with the Olympic Museum along with Reliance
Foundation signed a new cooperation agreement to expand and promote the Olympic Values
Education Programme (OVEP) in India.

CM Hemant Soren Unveils 'Juhi' Mascot for Women's Asian Champions Trophy
• In a vibrant ceremony at Project Bhawan in Dhurva, Ranchi, Jharkhand, the Hon'ble Chief Minister of
Jharkhand, Hemant Soren, unveiled the mascot for the upcoming Women's Asian Champions Trophy
2023. 'Juhi,' the mascot, takes inspiration from the beloved elephant at Betla National Park.
• The event also marked the initiation of the Trophy Tour for the Jharkhand Women’s Asian
Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023. The magnificent trophy will embark on a tour across all districts of
the state, commencing on October 13, 2023. The Trophy Tour will conclude on October 25, 2023, with
the trophy returning to Ranchi, setting the stage for the tournament's commencement.

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Former England Captain Alastair Cook Announced His Retirement from Cricket
• Former England captain Alastair Cook, a cricketing legend, has officially announced his retirement
from the sport. This marks the end of a remarkable career, both internationally and at his long-time
county team, Essex.
• Cook had previously retired from international cricket in 2018, leaving behind an illustrious legacy.
He amassed an astonishing 12,472 Test runs during his international career, making him the highest-
scoring English batter and the fifth-highest run-scorer in Test history.

11th Sultan of Johor Cup To Be Held In Johor, Malaysia In November 2023


• The 11th edition of the Sultan of Johor Cup in 2023 is scheduled to be held in Johor, Malaysia.
This prestigious tournament is set to take place from October 27 to November 4. Notably, this year's
edition will feature eight teams, expanding from the customary six.
• In this year's Sultan of Johor Cup, India has been placed in Pool B. They will face tough competition
from Malaysia, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Meanwhile, Pool A will consist of Germany, Australia,
South Africa, and Great Britain.

Cricket in Olympics from 2028.


Cricket will be back in the elite Olympics. In the next five years, cricket will fulfill the expectations of
the fans who are eagerly anticipating its inclusion in the World Games. During the 141st conference of
the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Mumbai, the committee has decided to add cricket to its
list for inclusion in the 2028 Games. Los Angeles hosted the World Games. The IOC Executive Board
announced on October 13 that sports like cricket, softball, flag football (sixes), lacrosse and squash
will be included in the Olympics. In the IOC sessions that started in Mumbai, the members were
presented with this proposal and subsequently voted on it. In India, the second conference of IOC has
been arranged.

Para Asian Games 2023


The Para Asian Games 2023 officially started on October 22. Tokyo Paralympics champions Avani
Lekhara (Shooting) and Sumit Antil (Javelin Throw) will lead our team of athletes in these Games. A
total of 313 athletes will participate in these competitions on behalf of India. Our athletes will
compete in 17 sports. More than 4 thousand para-athletes from 43 countries will compete in Asian
Para Games.

Hyderabad To Host Second Edition Of E-Prix In 2024


• After a period of uncertainty, the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Formula E
have officially confirmed the return of the Hvderabad EPrix for a second edition. This highly
anticipated event is scheduled to take place on February 10, 2024.
• One of the most exciting aspects of the 2024 Hyderabad EPrix is the debut of an Indian driver, Jehan
Daruvala. Daruvala will be making his mark in the all-electric single-seater championship, driving for
Maserati MSG Racing and representing the Indian team Mahindra Racing.
• The Hyderabad EPrix for its second edition in 2024 is a significant milestone for the world of
motorsport and for India. With the inclusion of a talented Indian driver, Jehan Daruvala, and Formula
E's commitment to India, the event promises to be an unforgettable experience for both competitors
and fans.

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Grandmaster Raunak Sadhwani Crowned U-20 World Junior Rapid Chess Champion
• Grandmaster Raunak Sadhwani won the FIDE World Junior Rapid Chess Championship in Sardinia,
Italy. Raunak scored 8.5 over 11 rounds to win the Championship ahead of Arseniy Nesterov of Russia,
who scored 8.
• He became the winner by defeating Tobias Kole of Germany in the final round.Raunak became a
grandmaster at the age of 13. He is the ninth youngest player in history and the fourth youngest
Indian to be awarded the title.
• Raunak earned a spot in the 2021 Bullet Chess Championship after winning aqualifier event. He
played alongside world-class bullet players like GMs Hikaru Nakamura, Alireza Firouzja, Levon
Aronian, Daniel Naroditsky, and more. He won a bronze medal with the Indian team at the 2022 FIDE
Olympiad.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen Wins 50th F1 in US Grand Prix 2023


Max Verstappen, the Belgian-Dutch driver of Red Bull won the Formula 1 (F1) United States Grand
Prix 2023 held at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, The United States of America(USA)
from 20- 22 October 2023.
• This marks Max Verstappen's 50th career win in the F1 and he joins Lewis Hamilton (103), Michael
Schumacher (91) (Germany), Sebastian Vettel (53) (Germany) and Alain Prost (51)(France) in the 50-
win club.

Max Verstappen Dominates Mexico City Grand Prix, Sets New Season Victory Record
• Max Verstappen, the Red Bull racing sensation, showcased his exceptional skills at the Formula One
Mexico City Grand Prix. Verstappen's incredible win marked his record-breaking 16th victory of the
season, surpassing his own previous season's record.
• Max Verstappen's win at the Mexico City Grand Prix was his third consecutive victory at the
Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. With 51 career wins, he now shares the fourth position in Formula
One history with Alain Prost.

England's FIFA World Cup Winner Sir Bobby Charlton Passed Away at 86
The former England football player Sir Bobby (Robert) Charlton passed away at the age of 86. He
suffered dementia in 2020.
• Sir Bobby Charlton was part of the England’s Federation Internationale de Football Association
(FIFA) World Cup winning team in 1966.
Awards
2023 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize awarded to Mathematician Ruixiang Zhang
The Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Ramanujan Prize for 2023
will be awarded to Ruixiang Zhang of China, Assistant Professor at the University of California,
Berkeley, the United States of America (USA) for his contribution to Mathematics from analytic
number theory, combinatorics, Euclidean harmonic analysis to geometry.
• The Prize will be conferred at the International Conference on Number Theory, which will be held
from 20 to 22 December 2023 at SASTRA
University in Kumbakonam(birthplace of Ramanujan) of Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.
About Ruixiang Zhang:
In 2022, he was awarded Sloan Research Fellowship, one of the most prestigious honors given to
early-career scientific researchers for 2022-24.

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Sudha Murty Becomes 1st Woman to Get Global Indian Award
The renowned author and philanthropist Sudha Murty, chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, became
the first woman to be honored the Global Indian Award by the Canada India Foundation (CIF) at Indo-
Canadian gala event held in Toronto, Canada.
• The award is presented to her by Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma
About CIF Global Indian Award:
i.The CIF Global Indian Award is the most prestigious Indo-Canadian event given to an outstanding
individual who has helped India become a global economic and political power.
ii. The award winner receives USD 50,000 to donate to a charity of their choice.
iii. The award is the first of its kind to be given outside of India.

Amini, a young woman from Iran, was posthumously honored with the Sakharov Prize, an
esteemed human rights award, by the EU.
After being arrested for not wearing hijab correctly and later dying in police custody, Masa Amini, a
22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman, was posthumously honored with 'one of the rarest honorees'
Amini has been honored with the Sakharov Prize, the European Union's (EU)'S top human rights prize,
this year. The European Parliament announced this. The moral department police apprehended Masa
Amini, a Kurdish woman from Iran, in September last year for not wearing hijab properly. She was
fatally injured in their custody and passed away on September 16, 2022, while undergoing treatment.
The passing of her caused widespread protests in Iran. In this context, the European Union's selection
of Massa Amini (posthumously) for the top human rights award has become crucial. A cash award of
50,000. Euros (approximately Rs. 43.89)

Awarded 'Global Leadership' Award to CJI


Center for Legal Profession of Harvard Law School Chief Justice of India CJI Justice D. Y. Chandrachud
was given 'Global Leadership' Award. The award was announced to the CJI in an online ceremony on
January 11 this year. Justice D.Y. who received the award on October 21 at Harvard Law School.
Chandrachud spoke to Professor David Wilkins of the University. Harvard Law School is celebrating
the centennial of its graduate law program. On this occasion, Justice D.Y. reminisced about the time he
studied law courses in Harvard between 1982-86. Chandra Chud is famous.

Former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has been appointed as a member of the Gandhi Peace
Prize Committee
Former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has been appointed as a member of the selection committee
for the prestigious Gandhi Peace Award. The Union Ministry of Culture issued an order to this effect
on October 21. This award was started in 1995. This award is given annually to individuals and
organizations who play a vital role in bringing social, economic and political transformation along the
lines preached by Gandhi. The awardees will be presented with a cash prize of Rs.1 crore, a certificate
of appreciation and a plaque. The selection committee for the award consists of Prime Minister,
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Chief Justice of Supreme Court, Speaker of Lok Sabha and two
eminent persons who have made outstanding contribution in any field. Former Vice President
Venkaiah Naidu said that he was happy to be appointed as a member of the Gandhi Peace Award
Selection Committee.

Lionel Messi Wins Eighth Ballon D'Or 2023


• Lionel Messi and Aitana Bonmati have been honored as the 2023 Ballon d’Or recipients. Messi

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secures his eighth Ballon d'Or, setting a new record, thanks to his pivotal role in leading Argentina to
their first World Cup victory since 1986.
• This remarkable achievement places Messi three Ballons d'Or ahead of his rival Cristiano Ronaldo,
who last won the award in 2017. Messi has now been a top-three finalist for this prestigious accolade
a total of 14 times, with five instances as the runner-up.

US President Biden Honors Indian-American Scientists With National Medal For Technology &
Innovation
• US President Joe Biden recently awarded the prestigious White House National Medal for
Technology and Innovation and the National Medal of Science to Ashok Gadgil and Subra Suresh,
respectively, in recognition of their groundbreaking work that has not only advanced scientific
knowledge but also improved the quality of life for countless individuals.

Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi Conferred with Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social
Justice 2023
Narges Mohammadi, Iranian women's rights campaigner and the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate,
will be conferred with the Harmony Foundation's Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice
2023.
• The announcement was by Abraham Mathai, the founder-chairman of Harmony Foundation, a
Mumbai(Maharashtra)-based Nongovernmental Organisation NGO.
• This award recognise Narges's unwavering courage in risking her life as a fearless defender and
advocate of human rights against the fundamentalist regime of Iran, truly embodying humanity in
action.
• The 19th Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice Award (2023) Ceremony is scheduled for
November 26, 2023, in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
About Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice:
i.It was instituted in 2005 and is a platform to acknowledge and recognize the extraordinary work of
individuals or organizations who aim to promote peace, harmony, and social justice.
ii.It is presented to celebrate and commemorate the memory and legacy of Mother Teresa.
iii.This is the only award endorsed by Sister Mary Prema Pierick, who served as the Superior General
of the Missionaries of Charity (MC), Kolkata (West Bengal) from 2009 to 2022. MC was started by
Mother Teresa in 1950.
Important Dates & Events
World Space Week 2023 - 4th to 10th October
The United Nations (UN) World Space Week (WSW) is annually observed across the globe from 4th to
10th October to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the
human condition.
The theme for World Space Week 2023 is "Space and Entrepreneurship".

69th Wildlife Week - 2 to 8 October 2023


Wildlife Week is annually observed across India in the month of October from 2 to 8 October to spread
awareness of the importance of wildlife and its conservation in India.
• The annual observance coincides with the birth anniversary (2 October) of Mahatma Gandhi, who
championed the principles of Ahinsa (non-violence) and compassion toward all living beings.

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• 2023 marks the observance of the 69th Wildlife Week.The theme of Wildlife Week 2023 is
"Partnerships for wildlife conservation".
• The theme is inspired by the theme of the United Nations (UN) World Wildlife Day 2023, which
honours the individuals and organisations making a positive impact on wildlife conservation.

Sankalp Saptaah
PM Launched Sankalp Saptaah to Improve Governance at Block Level
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi launched 'Sankalp Saptaah', a unique week-long programme for
Aspirational Blocks of India, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Delhi. He also launched the Aspirational
Blocks Programme (ABP) Portal and inaugurated the exhibition showcased on the occasion.
• 'Sankalp Saptaah' is linked to the effective implementation of the ABP.
• The programme is observed from 3rd October to 9th October, 2023.
About ABP:
i.The nationwide Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) was launched by the PM in January, 2023.
ii.ABP is an initiative to improve governance at the block level to increase the quality of life of citizens.
iii. ABP is based on the Aspirational District Programme(ADP) which has transformed the lives of
about 25 crore people in 112 districts.

Indian Air Force Unveils New Ensign on Its 91st Anniversary


• The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 91st anniversary at the Bamrauli Air Force Station in
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The occasion was marked by the unveiling of the new IAF ensign by Air Chief
Marshal V.R. Chaudhari.
• This significant event witnessed several historic firsts, including the inclusion of the Air Force crest
and the first-ever woman officer to command the Air Force Day Parade. Group Captain Shaliza Dhami
made history as the first woman officer to command the Air Force Day Parade.

Country's Oldest Think Tank US To Hold First Ever Indian Military Heritage Festival
• The United Service Institution of India (USI), the nation's oldest think tank, is set to host the first-
ever Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF), scheduled for October 21 and 22.
• This groundbreaking event aims to fill a void in the national discourse and cultural calendar by
shedding light on India's rich military history, contemporary security concerns, and the pursuit of self-
reliance in military capabilities through the Atmanirbhar Bharat programs.

Kati Bihu 2023


• Kati Bihu, also known as Kongali Bihu, is a significant festival celebrated by the Assamese people in
the northeastern state of Assam. It falls on the first day of the 'Kati' month, which typically occurs in
the middle of October.
• Kati Bihu 2023 is celebrated on 18th October and it marks the beginning of the rice crop's growth
and the start of the new harvest season. Kati Bihu is one of the three major festivals in Assam,
alongside Bhogali Bihu and Rongali Bihu. It connects people to their agricultural roots and celebrates
the importance of the harvest.

24th Hornbill Festival 2023 To Kick Off in Nagaland from December 1


Hornbill Festival 2023 will start from December 1. This festival stands out as one of the most
anticipated and celebrated events of the year. This colorful festival not only showcases the rich
cultural heritage of Nagaland but also draws thousands of curious travelers from around the world to

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partake in its festivities.

Manipur Celebrates Mera Houchongba


Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh participated in this year's Mera Houchongba celebrations in
Imphal on 28th October 2023. The event, which brought together the diverse communities of the
state, emphasized the strong bond between the people of the hills and the valley.

International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2023- October 22 to 28


International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (ILPPW) is annually observed across the globe on the
last full week of October to raise awareness about the harmful effects of lead poisoning (lead
exposure).
The day also aims to promote the action to eliminate the use of lead in paint.
This is an initiative of the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint (Lead Paint Alliance), jointly led by
the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
In 2023, the ILPPW was observed from 22nd to 28th October 2023. This marks the 11th observance
of ILPPW.
The 2023 campaign of ILPPW focuses on "End Childhood Lead Poisoning".

Books& Authors
Vivek Agnihotri Launches His Latest Book "The Book of Life: My Dance With Buddha For
Success"
• Vivek Agnihotri, director of The Kashmir Files, has launched his latest book, "The Book of Life: My
Dance with Buddha for Success" in Lucknow. He also directed a medical drama film 'The Vaccine War'
in 2023.
• Balram Bhargava is the writer of the book on which the movie is based. Bhargava's book, 'Going Viral
- Making of Covaxin: The inside Story', documents his experiences.

"The Professionals ‘Handbook to ChatGPT


TN Minister PT Released "The Professionals ‘Handbook to ChatGPT", book on ChatGPT Palanivel
Thiaga Rajan (PTR), Minister of Information Technology and Digital Services, Government of Tamil
Nadu (TN) released "The Professionals' Handbook to ChatGPT" a book on ChatGPT for professionals in
various field.
• The book authored by Pattabhi Ram V and Dungar Chand U Jain was published by Read Write
Productions.
• The book covering around 27 work areas will benefit finance professionals.
• It provides practical advice on how to use ChatGPT to improve productivity and efficiency in the
workplace.

EX-RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan & Economist Rohit Lamba authored a new book "Breaking
the Mould"
Raghuram Rajan, Former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and Economist Rohit Lamba
has authored a new book titled "Breaking the Mould: Reimagining India's Economic Future".
• The book, published by Penguin Business, an imprint of Penguin Random House India (PRHI), is set
to be released in December 2023.

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Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Launched Ashok Tandon's New Book "The Reverse Swing"
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) launched a book
titled "The Reverse Swing: Colonialism to Cooperation" authored by Ashok Kumar Tandon, a veteran
journalist and political commentator.

'The Lords of the Wankhede - Tales Between Two Titles' Co-authored by W.V. Raman and R.
Kaushik Launched
The book titled 'The Lords of the Wankhede - Tales Between Two Titles' Co-authored b Indian
cricketer W.V. Raman and senior journalist R. Kaushik was launched in Bengaluru, Karnataka and it
was published by Rupa Publications.

Regional
Bojjannakonda
Recently, the Central government has sanctioned 7.30 crore rupees for taking up landscaping and
development of tourist amenities at Bojjannakonda site.
About Bojjannakonda:
• It is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
• The site was excavated under the aegis of Alexander Rim in 1906.
• It was originally known as 'Buddhuni konda' (hill of the Buddha), but it came to be known as
'Bojjannakonda' in the course of time.
• Buddhist monks used to practice on the hill about 2,000 years ago.
• A gold coin belonging to the Samudra Gupta period, copper coins of the Chalukya king Kubja Vishnu
Vardhan, coins of Andhra Satavahanas and pottery were discovered at the site.

AP's Indian Red Cross Society signs MoU with NCC to Enroll NCC students as YRC Volunteer
The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Andhra Pradesh (AP), has signed a first of its kind Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) to enroll NCC students as Youth Red
Cross(YRC Volunteers in Andhra Pradesh(AP).

Vizag to host global Congress on irrigation in November.


The 25th Congress of the International Commission on Irrigation & Drainage (ICID) and 7th
International Executive Council (IC) meeting of ICID will be held in Visakhapatnam from November 2
to 8, Collector A. Mallikarjuna said. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will attend the programme,
which will be held under the aegis of Indian National Committee on Irrigation & Drainage (INCID).

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