Beepedia Monthly Current Affairs (Beepedia) January 2024

[Date]
1
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
INDEX
RBI, Banking and Economy ___________________________________________ 2
SEBI and Financial Awareness _________________________________________ 17
NABARD and Agriculture ___________________________________________ 27
National __________________________________________________________ 31
International _____________________________________________________ 47
States____________________________________________________________ 55
Reports and Indexes _______________________________________________ 64
Science and Technology ___________________________________________ 76
Defence __________________________________________________________ 85
Events ___________________________________________________________ 94
Awards & Rewards ___________________________________________________ 101
Appointments _____________________________________________________ 113
Obituaries ___________________________________________________ 115
Books_________________________________________________________ 117
Sports ___________________________________________________________ 117
Important Days _________________________________________________________ 123

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Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
RBI, Banking and Economy
RBI revises Eligibility Norms for UCBs non-compliance with the directions issued by it on
'Customer Service in Banks'.
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced the Learn Along:
revision of eligibility norms for the inclusion About RBI
of urban co-operative banks in the second Founded: 1 April 1935 Headquarters:
schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, Mumbai Governor: Shaktikanta Das
1934.
 The move aims to bring urban co-operative RBI doubled the minimum capital requirement to
banks within the purview of an updated Rs 200 crore
regulatory framework.
 The Reserve Bank increased the minimum
 Further, eligible UCBs satisfying the following
capital requirement for small finance banks
criteria shall be considered for inclusion in the
(SFBs) to Rs 200 crore and also allowed
Second Schedule:
payments banks to operate as SFBs (Small
 CRAR of at least 3 % more than the minimum Finance Banks).
CRAR requirement applicable to the UCB; and  The total assets of all the small finance banks
 No major regulatory and supervisory concerns. operating at present are more than Rs 200
crore.
 Furthermore, financially sound and well-managed  Primary (urban) co-operative banks (UCBs)
licensed tier 3 and tier 4 primary (urban) co- wishing to voluntarily migrate to SFBs will be
operative banks meeting specified criteria will required to have capital of Rs 100 crore, which
be eligible for inclusion. should be increased to Rs 200 crore within five
years from the date of commencement of
RBI imposes Rs 2.49 crore penalty on 3 banks business.
including Punjab & Sind
India's net household financial savings declined
 The Reserve Bank has imposed penalties to 5.1 per cent of the GDP in FY23
totalling Rs 2.49 crore on three banks,
including Dhanlaxmi Bank and Punjab and  Recent data from the Reserve Bank of India
Sind Bank, for contravention of regulatory norms. (RBI) bulletin, released in September 2023,
 A penalty of Rs 1.20 crore has been slapped reveals that India's net household financial
on Dhanlaxmi Bank for non-compliance with savings, encompassing bank savings, cash, and
certain directions on 'Loans and Advances investments, declined to 5.1 per cent of the
Statutory and Other Restrictions', KYC and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in FY23, down
certain norms related to interest rate on deposits,
from 7.1 per cent in FY20-21.
the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said.
 The changing trend indicates a departure from
 Further, a fine of Rs 1 crore has been imposed
the conventional approach of stashing money in
on Punjab and Sind Bank for non-compliance
bank accounts.
with certain directions on 'Loans and Advances
Statutory and Other Restrictions'.  The report noted that a low-interest regime
 The central bank has also imposed a penalty of resulted in a “paradigm shift of household
Rs 29.55 lakh on ESAF Small Finance Bank for financial savings to household physical
savings in the last two years”.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
RBI grants payment aggregator licence to Tata

Pay 97.38% of ₹2,000 banknotes have been
returned: RBI
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted a
payment aggregator (PA) licence to Tata  According to The Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Payments, Tata group's digital payments app. the circulation of ₹2,000 banknotes has
declined to ₹9,330 crore at the close of
 This will help the firm facilitate ecommerce
business on December 29, 2023, “thus 97.38% of
transactions through its platform.
the ₹2000 banknotes in circulation as on May
 Tata Payments is held through Tata Digital, the
19, 2023, has since been returned.’
group's subsidiary entity, which houses its digital
 The total value of ₹2,000 banknotes in
businesses. circulation was ₹3.56 lakh crore at the close of
 Tata Pay joins the likes of Razorpay, Cashfree, business on May 19, 2023, when the withdrawal
Google Pay, among others to secure the much- of ₹2,000 banknotes was announced in an
awaited payments licence. update adding the ₹2,000 banknotes continue to
 Tata can power all ecommerce transactions be legal tender.
within its subsidiary entities which will help it
manage funds better. Govt extends tenure of PLI scheme for Auto
industry by a year with partial amendments
RBI proposed easing of norms for dividend
 The government has extended the tenure of
payout by banks
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for
Automobile and Auto Components by one
 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed to
year with partial amendments.
give permission for banks having net non-
 According to Ministry of Heavy Industries in a
performing assets (NPAs) ratio of less than 6 per statement, under the amended scheme, the
cent to declare dividends. incentive will be applicable for a total of five
 Currently, banks need to have a NNPA ratio of consecutive financial years, starting from the
up to 7 per cent to become eligible for declaration financial year 2023-24.
of dividends.  The disbursement of the incentive will take
place in the following financial year 2024-25.
 The net NPA ratio, for the financial year for which
the dividend is proposed, should be less than six  The scheme also specifies that an approved
applicant will be eligible for benefits for five
per cent.
consecutive financial years, but not beyond the
 A commercial bank should have a minimum financial year ending on 31st of March, 2028.
total capital adequacy of 11.5 per cent to be Learn Along:
eligible for declaring dividend, while the same for About PLI
a small finance bank and payment banks has  The PLI scheme was conceived to scale up
been set at 15 per cent, and 9 per cent for local domestic manufacturing capability, accompanied
area banks and regional rural banks. by higher import substitution and employment
generation.
 The RBI has proposed increasing the upper
 Launched in March 2020, the scheme initially
ceiling on dividend payout ratio — which is the targeted three industries:
ratio between the amount of the dividend payable  Mobile and allied Component Manufacturing
in a year and the net profit — to 50 per cent if the  Electrical Component Manufacturing and
net NPA is zero from the earlier ceiling of 40 per  Medical Devices.
cent.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
GST collections continue robust growth,  India is ranked third-largest consumer of

rise 10% to Rs 1.64 lakh crore in energy in the world, with an annual electricity
December demand increase of about 4.7 percent.
 The gross Goods and Services Tax, GST Banks’ gross NPAs drop to 3.2% in Sept-
revenue collection in the month of December, end helped by retail loans
2023 stood at 1,64,882 crore rupees.
 The revenue for the month of December is 10.3  GNPA ratio of scheduled commercial banks
per cent higher than the GST revenues in the (SCBs) decreased to 3.2% at end-September
same month last year. from 3.9% at end-March.
 The total GST revenue collected for the month,  Agricultural sector had the highest GNPA
Central Goods and Services Tax, CGST ratio, while retail loans had the lowest as of end-
collection is 30,443 crore rupees, State Goods
September.
and Services Tax, SGST is 37,935 crore
 Industrial sector's asset quality improved, with
rupees, Integrated Goods and Services Tax,
its GNPA ratio at 4.2% at end-September.
IGST is around 84,255 crore rupees and and
cess is 12,249 crore rupees.  Reduction in GNPA ratio of large industries
notable, declining from 22.9% at end-March
 The GST collection has witnessed a robust
growth of 12 percent with the collection of 14.97 2018 to 4.6% at end-June 2023.
lakh crore rupees during the last nine months.
CCI approves acquisition of 100% shareholding
 During the same period in 2022, a total of 13.40
of GVK Power (Goindwal Sahib) Limited by
lakh crore rupees were collected.
Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd.
 According to the Finance Ministry, the average
monthly gross GST collection of 1.66 lakh
 The Competition Commission of India (CCI)
crore rupees were recorded in the first nine
has approved the proposed acquisition of
months of this fiscal year.
100% shareholding of GVK Power (Goindwal
Domestic Coal Based Power Generation Sahib) Limited by Punjab State Power
increases by 8.38 % during April-Nov 2023 Corporation Ltd.
 The Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd, is a
 India has witnessed a remarkable 7.71 percent fully owned undertaking of the Government of
surge in power generation and 11.19 percent Punjab.
in Coal-based power generation from April to  The erstwhile Punjab State Electricity Board
(PSEB), was a statutory body formed on 01st
November this year, as compared to the
corresponding period of the previous year. February, 1959 under the Electricity Supply Act,
1948.
 The unprecedented rise showed because of
temperature, delayed monsoons in the  The PSEB was “unbundled” by the Government
Northern region of the country coupled with the of Punjab on 16th April, 2010 into two separate
resumption of full commercial activities post- entities – Punjab State Power Corporation
Covid. Limited (PSPCL) and Punjab State
 The domestic coal-based power generation up Transmission Corporation Limited (PSTCL).
to November 2023 reached 779.1 Billion Units  The GVK Power (Goindwal Sahib) Limited, is
(BU), reflecting an increase of 8.38 percent over incorporated in December 1997, is a wholly
the power generated in the corresponding period owned subsidiary of GVK Energy Limited which
of last year. in turn is the subsidiary of GVK Power and
Infrastructure Limited.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 It is engaged in power generation through a  This could translate into the fiscal deficit
540 coal based thermal power plant. breaching the year’s 5.9% of GDP target to hit
Learn Along: around 6%, economists cautioned.
About CCI  GVA growth for the farm sector is estimated to
Formed: 14 October 2003 more than halve from 4% a year ago to 1.8% this
Headquarters: New Delhi
year, as is the case for Trade, Hotels, Transport,
Communication and Services.
India Ratings raises GDP forecast to 6.7%
 The share of private final consumption
expenditure in GDP is expected to drop this
 India Ratings and Research revised its GDP year to 56.9%, from 58.5% in 2022-23.
growth estimate for 2023-24 to 6.7% from an Learn Along:
earlier projection of 6.2% citing strong second About RBI
quarter growth, sustained government capex and Founded: 1 April 1935
the prospect of a new private capex cycle, even as Headquarters: Mumbai Governor:
it noted that consumption demand in the Shaktikanta Das
economy is not broad based.
REC Limited and Bank of Baroda join hands to
 Risks to global growth and merchandise trade finance Power, Infrastructure and Logistics
volumes will continue to weigh on and restrict Projects
India’s GDP growth to 6.7% this year.
 Sustained real wage growth of households in the  REC Limited has signed a Memorandum of
lower-income bracket is an imperative for a Understanding (MoU) with Bank of Baroda in
sustainable and broad-based recovery in order to facilitate joint sanctions of loans to
fund power, infrastructure and logistics projects in
consumption demand.
the country over the next three years.
 By pooling resources and expertise, both
India’s GDP is estimated to grow by 7.3%,
entities endeavor to champion initiatives that
says NSO
will invigorate economic development and
enhance accessibility to essential services
 India’s real GDP growth in 2023-24 is
nationwide.
estimated at 7.3%, compared to 7.2% a year ago,  The MoU was signed on January 3, 2024 in the
as per the first advance estimates of national presence of Chairperson and Managing Director
income released by the National Statistical (CMD), REC Limited, Shri Vivek Kumar
Office (NSO), which reckon the economy will
Dewangan and Managing Director & CEO, Bank
outperform the 7% uptick recently projected of Baroda, Shri Debadatta Chand along with
by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Executive Director, Bank of Baroda, Shri Lalit
 With GDP growth in the first half of this year Tyagi.
clocking 7.7%, the NSO’s advance estimates, that Learn Along:
rely on data for the first six to eight months of About REC Limited
a year and are helpful in the Union Budget  REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector
Enterprise established in 1969, under Ministry of
formulation, indicate the second-half growth will
Power, provides long-term loans and other finance
be about 6.9%-7%.
products for Power-Infrastructure sector comprising
 The NSO expects the growth in Gross Value Generation, Transmission, Distribution, Renewable
Added (GVA) in the economy to ease slightly Energy and new technologies like Electric Vehicles,
from 7% in 2022-23 to 6.9% this year, and pegs Battery Storage and Green Hydrogen.
nominal GDP growth at 8.9% compared to the About Bank of Baroda
10.5% Budget estimate.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Established: 20th July 1908 Investors Meet 2024, held in Chennai on

Headquarteres: Vadodara, Gujarat, India. January 7 and 8.
 At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the  This will be achieved through expanded
Government of India. investments in Tamil Nadu's green economy
and sustainability sector, as well as
GAIL signs deal with Vitol for LNG supply infrastructure development, including data
centres, information technology parks, and
 GAIL (India) Limited and Vitol Asia Pte. Ltd. logistics sectors.
signed a long term deal for the supply of about  Singapore is one of the partner countries in
one million metric tonne of LNG per annum to the event and will set up a dedicated pavilion
India for a period of about 10 years, commencing to showcase its companies already operating in
2026. Tamil Nadu.
 Under the deal, Vitol will deliver LNG from its Learn Along:
global portfolio to GAIL in India on a pan-India About Tamil Nadu
Chief minister: M. K. Stalin Founded: 1773
basis, as per a statement.
Governor: R. N. Ravi Capital: Chennai
 The deal signed in the light of consolidation of
demand for natural gas in India, and was part
ONGC begins ‘first oil production’ from deep-
of multiple negotiations GAIL was engaged in
with LNG suppliers for long term deals water block in Krishna-Godavari basin
 Vitol is a leader in energy sector with a presence
across oil, gas, power, renewables and carbon. In  Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
2022, Vitol delivered about 14 mtpa of LNG. commenced its ‘first oil production’ from the
Learn Along: deep-water KG-DWN 98/2 Block in the Krishna
About GAIL Godavari (KG) basin off the Bay of Bengal on the
 GAIL (India) Ltd. was incorporated in August, 1984 Kakinada coast on January 7.
as a Central Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under  The block is approximately 25 km from the
the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoP&NG), coastline. The peak production of the 98/2 field
with the mission of “accelerating and optimizing
is expected to be around 45,000 barrels of oil
the effective and economic use of Natural Gas and
per day and over 10 Million Metric Standard
its fractions for the benefit of the national economy”.
Cubic Metres per Day (MMSCMD) of gas.
 Government of India now holds 51.45% shares of the
Learn Along:
company.
About ONGC
 GAIL became a Navratna in 1997 and is now one of Headquarters: New Delhi Founded: 14 August
the ten Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking, the
1956 Chairman & CEO: Arun Kumar Singh
highest status conferred to any PSU.
World Bank keeps India's FY25 GDP growth

Singapore firms to invest Rs 31,000 cr in
estimate unchanged at 6.4%
Tamil Nadu during investors meet
 Singapore and its companies will extend  World Bank maintains India's FY25 economic
economic cooperation with the state of Tamil growth projection at 6.4%, citing strong
Nadu. domestic demand, rising public infrastructure
 According to the country's high commission, spending, and robust private-sector credit
Singapore-based companies signed a growth.
memorandum of understanding worth  Private consumption growth in India may
Singapore dollars 5 billion or Rs 31,000 crore taper off due to high food inflation and
with the Tamil Nadu government at the Global diminishing pent-up demand.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 India expected to maintain the fastest growth Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Indian Banks’
rate among the world's largest economies, but Association (IBA) under the provisions of the Payment
post-pandemic recovery to slow, with estimated and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, for creating a
growth of 6.3% in FY24 and gradual recovery to robust Payment & Settlement Infrastructure in India.
 MD & CEO: Mr. Dilip Asbe
6.5% in FY26.
 Global economy projected to slow for a third
consecutive year in 2024, with a forecasted GDP of India to surpass $4 trn in 2024-25, $5 trn
expansion of 2.4%, down from 2.6% in 2023. by 2026-27: PHDCCI report
 World Bank's report does not account for
India's National Statistical Office's first advance  According to a PHDCCI report released recently,
estimates, projecting 7.3% growth in FY24. India's economy is likely to surpass $4 trillion
in 2024-25 and further escalate to $5 trillion by
 Growth in most regions in 2025 may
strengthen, with the South Asian region, led by 2026-27,.
India, projected to remain the fastest-growing  The industry chamber also expects the RBI to
region. cut the repo rate by 100 basis points in a
Learn Along: calibrated manner by the end of 2024.
About World Bank  The analysis for the report has been conducted
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States for four sets of time periods, Pre Pandemic
Founded: July 1944 President: Ajay Banga Years (2018, 2019), Pandemic Years (2020,
2021), Post Pandemic Years (2022,2023) and
IndusInd Bank Launches ‘Samman RuPay Credit Futuristic Outlook Years (2024,2025).
Card’ for Government Employees Learn Along:
About PHDCCI
 IndusInd Bank announced the launch of the  PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI)
UPI-enabled ‘IndusInd Bank Samman RuPay has been working as a catalyst for the promotion of
Indian industry, trade and entrepreneurship for the
Credit Card’, in collaboration with National
past 118 years.
Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).  As a partner in progress with industry and
 This credit card is specially designed for government, PHDCCI works at the grass roots level
government sector employees with an aim to with strong national and international linkages for
provide them with a range of exclusive benefits propelling progress, harmony and integrated
and enhance their overall banking experience. development of the Indian economy.
 The IndusInd Bank Samman RuPay Credit Card  President: Sanjeev Agrawal
is a testament to the Bank's commitment to
innovation and customer-centricity. IOB introduces savings account portability
Learn Along: online scheme
About IndusInd Bank
 Established in 1994 by a platform conceived and  Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) introduces 'Savings
promoted by Srichand P Hinduja along with members Account Portability Online' to simplify the
of Indian diaspora, the name ‘IndusInd Bank' was savings account portability process for
inspired by the Indus Valley Civilization - one of the customers relocating to different locations.
greatest cultural example of a combination of  The scheme is designed to ease the account
innovation with sound business and trade practices. transfer process for individuals shifting due to
 Chairman: Mr. Sunil Mehta career changes, educational pursuits, or life
About NPCI transitions.
 National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), an  Customers can initiate the account transfer
umbrella organisation for operating retail payments
through the IOB website, avoiding the traditional
and settlement systems in India, is an initiative of
paperwork and waiting period.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Learn Along:  Services will be offered at village dairy co-

About IOB operative societies associated with milk unions
Founded: 10th February 1937 MD& CEO: Ajay of Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF).
Kumar Srivastava Headquarters: Chennai  The collaboration aims to enhance access to
markets, customer experience, and provide
India Post Payments Bank enter into MoU with seamless digital product offerings to dairy
Hindustan Zinc to offer financial inclusion farmers.
services to its CSR beneficiaries  The initiative supports digitization of payments
across the dairy value chain, easing access to
 India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and institutional credit for dairy farmers.
Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) have formed a Learn Along:
groundbreaking alliance to transform the About Karnataka Bank
financial landscape of rural Rajasthan. Incorporated: February 18th, 1924 MD and CEO: Mr.
Srikrishnan Hari Hara Sarma Headquarters: Mangaluru
 IPPB aims to provide financial inclusion
services to beneficiaries of Hindustan Zinc's CSR
activities, expanding its doorstep banking service SBI launches green rupee term-deposit
delivery to the unserved and underserved scheme for climate-friendly projects
population.
 The collaboration focuses on empowering  State Bank of India (SBI) has launched the SBI
communities, fostering economic resilience, Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD) of 1,111
and driving positive change in the operational
days, 1,777 days, and 2.222 days tenor for
areas of Hindustan Zinc.
resident individuals, non-individuals, and NRI
 IPPB will offer financial inclusion services,
including opening bank accounts, access to customers.
pension products, long-term savings, investment  The deposit has been introduced with the aim
schemes, and support for beneficiaries to become of mobilising funds to support environment-
Individual Business Correspondents. friendly initiatives and projects, thereby fostering
 The partnership will promote government social the growth of a green finance ecosystem in India,
welfare schemes through IPPB banking channels India’s largest bank said in a statement.
and assist beneficiaries in obtaining income-  Currently, the scheme is available through the
generating loans through IPPB’s lending partners. branch network, and it will soon be made
Learn Along: available through other digital channels such as
About India Post Payments Bank
YONO and Internet Banking Services (INB).
 India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) was setup under
the Department of Post, Ministry of  As RBI’s “Framework for acceptance of Green
Communication with 100% equity owned by Deposits”, Banks are not permitted to offer a
Government of India. differential rate of interest on green deposits.
 IPPB was launched as a pilot project on 30 January  This innovative product underscores the Bank’s
2017 in Ranchi (Jharkhand) and Raipur (Chhattisgarh).
commitment to promoting sustainable finance
 Director and Chairman: Vineet Pandey
and encouraging contributions towards green
Karnataka Bank ties up with Digivriddhi to offer activities, providing opportunities for individuals
financial services to dairy farmers, milk and entities to support the country’s vision for a
socieities sustainable future for all.
Learn Along:
 Karnataka Bank partners with fintech company About SBI
Digivriddhi (DGV) to provide financial services Chairperson: Dinesh Kumar Khara
to dairy farmers and milk societies. Founded: 1 July 1955 Headquarters: Mumbai

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Luxembourg, France gain heft among  Inflation is currently at 5%, higher than the
FPIs investing into India Reserve Bank of India's target range but lower
than a decade ago, with concerns about
 Luxembourg surpasses Mauritius as the persisting inflation till H2 FY2024.
region with the third-largest assets under
 Deloitte expects India to grow between 6.9% and
custody for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) 7.2% over FY2023-24, followed by 6.4% and 6.7%
investing in India. the next year, navigating global economic
 Luxembourg's AUC grows 30% to ₹4.85 lakh uncertainties better than the rest of the world.
crore, making its equity assets second only to the
US. DLabs at ISB launches `Build for Billions’ jointly
 Investments from Mauritius dip nine percent with RBI Innovation Hub, Union Bank of India
to ₹3.9 trillion due to regulatory oversight and
tax treaty changes.  HyderabadDLabs at the Indian School of
 Luxembourg gains prominence since 2020, with Business launched 'Build for Billions,' a startup
increased Indo-European financial accelerator program for financial inclusion in the
agreements and better regulation compared to informal economy.
tax havens.  The program is in partnership with Reserve
 France enters the top ten club with AUC Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) and Union Bank of
growing over 74% to ₹1.88 lakh crore. India.
 Ireland and Norway move up one position  It is aimed at addressing challenges faced by
each, ranking fifth and seventh, respectively, gig workers, migrant workers, domestic
among the jurisdictions. workers, and others in the informal sector.
 Canada slips one place, unclear if the  The 50-day equity-free accelerator offers
diplomatic row with India impacts investments. mentorship, capacity building, networking
Learn Along: opportunities, and a unique piloting opportunity
About Luxembourg with Union Bank.
Capital: Luxembourg Currency: Euro  Reserve Bank Innovation Hub CEO Rajesh
Bansal highlights the initiative's potential to
India likely to register 6.9-7.2% GDP growth in contribute to a more inclusive financial
FY24, says Deloitte ecosystem.
 The program is a collaboration between Union
 Deloitte India projects India's GDP growth to be Bank, DLabs, and RBIH to foster innovation in
in the range of 6.9-7.2% in the current fiscal year, the financial sector.
citing improving economic fundamentals. About RBI
Founded: 1 April 1935 Headquarters:
 National Statistical Office's first advance
estimates indicate a 7.3% growth in the 2023- Mumbai Governor: Shaktikanta
Das
24 fiscal, driven by mining, manufacturing, and
certain service sectors.
Maharashtra signs investment MoUs
 Deloitte's economic outlook report notes an worth Rs 3.53 trillion at Davos
underlying momentum in the Indian economy,
supported by improving economic fundamentals.
 Maharashtra state government secures
 India's current account deficit was 1.9% of GDP investment MoUs worth Rs 3.53 lakh crore
in 2022-23 and is expected to be lower in 2023- (USD 44 billion) at the World Economic Forum
24; foreign exchange reserves stand at Rs 568 Annual Meeting.
billion, equivalent to over 10 months of import
cover.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Expression of interest received for an worsen in 2024 with an extra two million workers
additional Rs 1 lakh crore, bringing the total are expected to be looking for jobs, raising the
potential investment to Rs 4.5 lakh crore (nearly global unemployment rate from 5.1% in 2023 to
USD 57 billion). 5.2%.
 Two lakh jobs expected across sectors like  According to a new report by the International
electronics, IT, data centres, gems and Labour Organization (ILO), disposable incomes
jewellery, agriculture, automobile, and have declined in the majority of G20 countries
renewable energy. and, generally, the erosion of living standards
 Chief Minister signed 19 MoUs during the resulting from inflation is, “unlikely to be
visit, formalizing investments from various compensated quickly.”
companies.  The ILO’s World Employment and Social
 MoUs include projects like a green hydrogen Outlook Trends: 2024 finds that both the
and ammonia plant, battery separator film unemployment rate and the jobs gap rate, which
manufacturing facility, paper production capacity is the number of people without employment who
expansion, brewery business expansion, Dighi are interested in finding a job, have fallen below
Port expansion, JSW Steel in renewables, and
pre-pandemic levels.
more.
 The 2023 global unemployment rate stood at
5.1%, a modest improvement from 2022 when it
Rural development Ministry signs pact with
SBI to facilitate loans for SHGs stood at 5.3%.
 The jobs gap rate in 2023 was 8.2% in high-
 The Rural Development Ministry and State income countries, it stood at 20.5% in the low-
Bank of India signed an MoU to facilitate income group. Similarly, while the 2023
enterprise financing for rural self-help groups unemployment rate persisted at 4.5% in high-
(SHGs). income countries, it was 5.7% in low-income
 State Bank of India introduced a specialized countries.
financial product, Svyam Siddha, exclusively  The rate of people defined as NEET (Not in
tailored for SHG women entrepreneurs, offering Employment, Education or Training) remains
loans up to Rs 5 lakhs. high, especially among young women, posing
 Svyam Siddha aims to simplify the loan challenges for long-term employment prospects.
application process, eliminating extensive Learn Along:
documentation requirements like quotations and About ILO
detailed project reports. Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland Founded: 1919
 The initiative reduces turnaround time (TAT) and

Yes Bank deploys Veefin’s SmartFin supply
allows a straightforward application with KYC
chain finance solution
details at local SBI bank branches.
Learn Along:
 YES BANK has announced the introduction of
About SBI
SmartFin, an end-to-end digital supply chain
Chairperson: Dinesh Kumar Khara
finance platform, enabled by Veefin Solutions.
Founded: 1 July 1955 Headquarters: Mumbai
 SmartFin focuses on facilitating digital supply
Global Unemployment Rate to Increase in 2024, chain finance (SCF) loans for dealers and
Says ILO Report suppliers of corporate clients, supporting them in
achieving their business objectives.
 The ILO projects that the labour market
outlook and global unemployment will both
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 These include working capital efficiency,  The move abroad follows HDFC Bank's merger
market expansion, sales acceleration, and with Housing Development Finance Corp. last
solidifying supply chain partnerships. year.
 The bank invested in SmartFin to help augment Learn Along:
its digital offerings in this space and, with the About HDFC Bank
platform’s help, it aims to drive required CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan Founded: August
1994, Mumba Headquarters: Mumbai
operational and financial efficiencies for all the
stakeholders. EPFO clears Aadhaar no longer valid as date of
Learn Along: birth proof
About Yes Bank
Headquarters: Mumbai Non-Executive,Part-time  Employees' Provident Fund Organisation
Chairman: Mr. Rama Subramaniam Gandhi Founded: (EPFO) has removed Aadhaar from the list of
2004 acceptable documents for proof of date of birth
(DoB).
Karnataka Bank and NBFC Clix Capital enter co-
 Earlier, UIDAI clarified that while Aadhaar serves
lending partnership as a distinctive identification proof, it is not
considered a valid proof of date of birth as per
 Karnataka Bank (KBL) and Clix Capital have the Aadhaar Act, 2016.
entered into a strategic digital co-lending  Valid proofs for EPFO include Birth Certificate,
partnership through Yubi Co. lend Platform. Marksheet from recognized boards, School
 The partnership focuses on providing loans to Leaving Certificate, Certificate based on service
the Indian MSME sector in line with RBI's records, PAN card, Pension Payment Order, and
guidelines on co-lending to priority sectors. Domicile Certificate issued by the Government.
 The collaboration aims to offer seamless and  In the absence of the above, a medical certificate
economical financing solutions in a digital issued by Civil Surgeon, supported with an
manner to the MSME sector, leveraging each affidavit on oath by the member, is acceptable.
other's strengths.
Learn Along: IREDA and Indian Overseas Bank join hands in
About Karnataka Bank co-lending for Renewable Energy Projects
MD&CEO: Mr. Srikrishnan H Incorporated on
February 18th, 1924 Headquarters: Mangaluru  Indian Renewable Energy Development
Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has signed a
HDFC seeks Singapore bank licence to open its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
1st branch in the country
Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), setting the stage for
collaborative efforts in co-lending and loan
 HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector lender,
is seeking to open its first branch in syndication for a diverse spectrum of
Singapore. Renewable Energy projects across the nation.
 The bank has applied to the Monetary  Encompassing a range of services, the MoU
Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a banking includes provisions for co-lending and co-
origination support for all Renewable Energy
license, and approval is pending.
projects.
 HDFC Bank aims to tap into the Indian
diaspora in Singapore for savings, term  The partnership aims to streamline loan
syndication and underwriting processes,
deposits, and cross-selling products, including
management of Trust and Retention Account
mortgages. (TRA) for IREDA borrowers, and work towards

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
fixed interest rates over a 3–4-year period for to 7 million sq ft, Bengaluru declined to 4.7 million
IREDA borrowings. sq ft, and Kolkata dipped to 3 million sq ft.
Learn Along:  Hyderabad saw an increase in demand, reaching
 Through the MoU and prior agreements with other 4.3 million sq ft from 3.7 million sq ft, while
leading financial institutions, IREDA is well-positioned
Chennai witnessed a surge to 6 million sq ft from
to fund large-scale renewable energy projects, aligning
3.9 million sq ft, and Pune's leasing activity went
with the India’s COP26 announcement of achieving
a 500 GW Non-Fossil-based electricity generation up to 1.7 million sq ft from 0.7 million sq ft.
capacity by 2030.”  The demand for industrial and logistic
 This collaboration builds upon IREDA's successful warehousing spaces in Ahmedabad rose from
partnerships with other prominent financial institutions, 1.2 million sq ft in 2022 to 2.2 million sq ft in the
including Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Union last year.
Bank of India, India Infrastructure Finance
Company Limited and Bank of Maharashtra.
 These MoUs similarly focus on co-lending and loan India defers $602 million plan to fill parts of
syndication for a wide range of Renewable Energy strategic petroleum reserve
projects across the country.
About IREDA  India has deferred a 50-billion-rupee ($601.78
 IREDA is a Public Limited Government Company million) plan to fill parts of its strategic
established as a Non-Banking Financial Institution
petroleum reserve, keeping in mind emerging
in 1987.
trends in oil markets.
 IREDA has been notified as a “Public Financial
Institution” under section 4 ‘A’ of the Companies
 In the federal budget for 2023-24, the
Act, 1956 and registered as Non-Banking Financial government had outlined a plan to purchase
Company (NBFC) with Reserve Bank of India (RBI). crude oil worth 50 billion rupees for caverns in
 Chairman and Managing Director: Pradip Kumar the southern cities of Mangalore and
Das Headquarters: New Delhi, India Visakhapatnam.
 India, the world’s third-biggest oil importer and
About Indian Overseas Bank consumer, imports over 80% of its oil needs and
Founded: 10th February 1937 MD & CEO: Ajay
has built strategic storage at three locations in
Kumar Srivastava Headquarters: Chennai
southern India to store over 5 million tons of oil to
protect against supply disruptions.
Industrial and logistics space demand hit record
in 2023: CBRE report
LIC gets RBI nod to hold up to 9.99%
 Demand for industrial and logistics spaces stake in HDFC
reached a record high in eight major cities, with an
8% annual increase in leasing activity, according  The Reserve Bank of India has approved a
proposal by the Life Insurance Corporation of
to CBRE.
India (LIC) to acquire up to 9.99% stake in
 CBRE's report indicates that leasing of industrial
HDFC Bank.
and logistics spaces grew from 36 million sq ft
 Under the RBI approval, the State-owned insurer
in the previous year to 38.8 million sq ft in 2023,
is required to “acquire major shareholding in
primarily fueled by third-party logistics (3PL)
HDFC Bank within a period of one year
companies. (January 24, 2025).”
 Mumbai set a new record with industrial and Learn Along:
logistics space leasing reaching 9.9 million sq About LIC
ft in 2023, while Delhi-NCR experienced a decline

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 LIC is fully owned by the government. It was set up in  Rs 4,050 crore provisioned for public sector
1 September 1956. It has the biggest share in India’s utilities, with a lump sum grant of Rs 1,350 crore
insurance business. or 15% of capex for up to three projects.
 Chairperson: Siddhartha Mohanty  Rs 3,850 crore earmarked for government and
Headquarters: Mumbai private sector projects, with a lump sum grant
About HDFC
of Rs 1,000 crore or 15% of capex for each
 CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan Founded:
project.
August 1994 Headquarters: Mumbai
 Rs 600 crore provisioned for demonstration
About RBI
Founded: 1 April 1935 Headquarters: projects/small-scale gasification plants, with a
Mumbai Governor: Shaktikanta Das lump sum grant of Rs 100 crore or 15% of capex.
 National Mission for Gasification aims to
ICRA revises bank credit growth estimates gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030,
upwards to 14.9-15.3% for FY24 adopting indigenous technologies for chemical
production.
 ICRA revises upwards bank credit growth  Coal gasification involves extracting methane
projections for FY24 to 14.9-15.3% from 12.8- from coal during mining for commercial
13.0%. purposes.
 Strong retail segment and NBFC lending
YES BANK Becomes First Indian Bank to
contribute to the upward revision.
Conduct Export Finance Transaction on RXIL’s
 Incremental credit expected to be Rs 20.4-20.9
ITFS Platform
trillion, surpassing the previous high of Rs 18.2
trillion in FY23.  YES BANK has become the first Indian bank to
 ICRA estimates corporate bond issuances to execute an export finance transaction on the
reach Rs 9.6-9.9 trillion in FY2024. International Trade Financing Services Platform
 Weaker export demand, softer commodity (ITFS) of RXIL Global IFSC Limited.
prices, and deposit mobilization challenges  RXIL is a cross-border fintech company
may impact bank credit growth in FY25. registered under the International Financial
Learn Along: Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).
About ICRA  The partnership aims to facilitate credit
 ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and arrangements for exporters and importers from
both Indian and global institutions through digital
Credit Rating Agency of India Limited) was set up in
platforms.
1991 by leading financial/investment institutions,
commercial banks and financial services companies
 It involves services like Factoring, Forfaiting,
as an independent and professional investment
and other trade financing services at
Information and Credit Rating Agency. competitive pricing with quick turnaround.
 Non-Executive Chairman: Mr. Arun Duggal  This marks the first transaction on the ITFS
platform in collaboration with any bank in
India.
Union Cabinet approves Rs 8,500 cr incentive for
 The initiative aligns with the Government's goal
coal gasification projects
to make India a global trade finance
powerhouse.
 Union Cabinet approves Rs 8,500 crore
 RXIL aims to drive transformative change in
financial incentive scheme for coal gasification
cross-border trade finance and tap global capital
projects.
flows to meet India's development needs.
 Three categories for financial incentives: Learn Along:
Public sector utilities, government and private About Yes Bank
sector projects, and demonstration projects.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Headquarteres: Mumbai Part-time Chairman, of more than 5 GW of renewable energy capacity

Independent Director: Rama Subramaniam Gandhi under operation and various stages of implementation.
 In 2021, Acme built what is perhaps the world’s first
CCI clears merger of Fincare Small Finance Bank Green Ammonia plant in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
with AU Small Finance Bank  Drawing upon its experience and strengths, ACME
aspires to become a leading green energy provider
 The Competition Commission of India (CCI) from electrons to molecules and is developing
has approved the merger of Fincare Small several green hydrogen and ammonia projects in
India, Oman and USA with an aim to have a portfolio
Finance Bank with AU Small Finance Bank..
of c. 10 MMTPA of green ammonia or equivalent
 In October last year, the board of directors of hydrogen/derivatives by 2032.
AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) and that of About IHI
Fincare Small Finance Bank (Fincare SFB)  IHI is a preeminent Japanese integrated heavy
approved an all-stock merger of AU SFB and industry group that originated in 1853 and leveraged
its shipbuilding technology to expand into onshore
Fincare SFB.
machinery, bridge, plant, aero-engine, and other
 As per the terms of scheme of amalgamation,
manufacturing fields.
Fincare Business Services, promoter of
 IHI has provided various solutions in the Resource,
Fincare SFB, shall infuse Rs 700 crore into
Energy and Environment; Social Infrastructure;
Fincare SFB prior to the completion of the Industrial Systems and General-Purpose Machinery;
merger. and Aero Engine, Space and Defence business
Learn Along: segments.
About CCI
Chairperson: Ravneet Kaur Founded: 14
HDFC Bank first lender to issue 20 million credit
October 2003 Headquarters:New Delhi cards, shows data
Indian Renewable Energy company - ACME and  HDFC Bank, India’s

Japanese heavy industry major IHI and sign one largest private sector
of the largest pact to supply Green Ammonia bank has become the
from India to Japan first lender in the
country to achieve
 ACME Group, a leading renewable energy the milestone of 20
company in India, and IHI Corporation, a million credit cards
Japanese integrated heavy industry group, signed in force.
an offtake term sheet for supply of green  The lender forayed
ammonia from Odisha, India to Japan. into the credit card
 The term sheet between IHI and Acme covers the business in 2001 and hit the 10-million mark in
supply of 0.4 MMTPA (million metric tons per 2017.
annum) of green ammonia from Phase-1 of  The next 10 million issuances came in a little over
Odisha project in Gopalpur on a long-term basis. six years. The milestone was achieved on 16
 This is one of the first and largest agreements January.
in the world in the field of green hydrogen and  According to the Reserve Bank of India data for
green ammonia. November 2023, HDFC Bank’s cards in
 This collaboration in renewable energy in going circulation stood at nearly 19.51 million as
green will further strengthen our partnership.
compared to 19.18 million cards in October 2023.
Learn Along:
 HDFC Bank is followed by SBI Card, ICICI
About ACME
Bank, and Axis Bank, in terms of the number of
 ACME Group is one of the largest renewable
Independent Power Producer in India with a portfolio credit cards issued.
About HDFC
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan Founded: Nirmala Sitharaman to become the second

August 1994 Headquarters: Mumbai Finance Minister to present the Union Budget six
times in a row
Cabinet approves Protocol for establishment of
 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to
joint Economic and Trade Committee between
present her sixth Budget in a row, surpassing
India and Dominican Republic
predecessors like Manmohan Singh, Arun Jaitley,
P. Chidambaram, and Yashwant Sinha.
 The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister
 This achievement will match former Prime
Narendra Modi approved the proposal for Minister Morarji Desai's record of presenting
signing of a protocol for establishment of five annual Budgets and one interim Budget
Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) between 1959-1964.
between the Department of Commerce, Ministry  The upcoming interim Budget for 2024-25 will be
of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of a vote-on-account, allowing the government to
India and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the
spend until a new government is formed after the
Dominican Republic. general elections.
 At present, there is no bilateral institutional  The interim Budget is not expected to include
mechanism between India and Dominican major policy changes due to the proximity to the
Republic on trade and commerce. elections, according to Nirmala Sitharaman.
 India primarily imports gold from Dominican  A vote-on-account authorizes the government to
Republic and exports pharmaceuticals, marine withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of
products, motor vehicles, two and three wheelers India for expenditure from April to July, with a new
etc. to them. government expected to present a final Budget for
 The establishment of JETCO will strengthen 2024-25 in July.
economic tie between India and the  Nirmala Sitharaman took charge of the finance
Dominican Republic and shall play a pivotal role portfolio in 2019 and has presented annual and
and provide a platform for discussions, exchange interim Budgets since then.
of information, knowledge and ideas which would  The Budget may focus on immediate fiscal
in turn facilitate trade and industry. needs rather than introducing broad long-term
 The Joint Committee will provide a platform for economic reforms, given the proximity to elections.
exchange of information between various  The agriculture sector's growth is a particular
authorities and their counterparts. concern, with measures expected to boost the
rural sector.
 This would help in facilitating trade of goods
and services and consequentially help in
Wabag inks MoU with PEAK to set up 100 bio-
better employment opportunities for
CNG plants
professionals in both the countries.
 The establishment of JETCO will facilitate
 VA Tech Wabag Ltd. (Wabag) has entered into an
mitigating challenges in export of Indian
products of mutual dialogue and pave the way MoU with Peak Sustainability Ventures (PEAK)
for boosting exports of pharmaceuticals, to establish 100 bio-CNG plants at sewage
automobiles and engineering goods treatment facilities across India and other
manufactured in India leading to more foreign mutually agreed upon locations in the GCC, Africa
exchange earnings for a Atmanirbhar Bharat. and European countries.
Learn Along:  The firms aim to harness the unutilised
About Dominican Republic potential of sewage treatment plants and
Capital: Santo Domingo generate bio-CNG, which can be used for mobility
Currency: Dominican peso application in heavy duty vehicles, and for
industrial applications.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
India – A 1 trillion manufacturing export market by Bank of Baroda’s arm rebranded as ‘BOBCARD
2030 Limited’ with ‘Credit Reimagined’ tagline
 India aims to achieve nearly 70 per cent of its  Bank of Baroda’s wholly-owned subsidiary for
USD 1 trillion goods export target by FY30 cards, ‘BOB Financial Solutions Limited’, has
through six identified sectors, including
been rebranded as ‘BOBCARD Limited’ with the
electronics, engineering goods, textiles,
marine & agriculture, toys, and tagline “Credit Reimagined”.
pharmaceuticals.  Accordingly, the NBFC has also unveiled a new
 A study by the commerce and industry ministry logo called ‘Baroda Sun’, which comprises dual
projects these sectors to contribute around USD ‘B’ letterforms that hold the rays of the rising sun.
670 billion in exports by 2029-30, surpassing the  The rebranding embodies “revitalised
FY23 goods export figure of USD 451.07 billion. commitment to reimagine the country’s credit
 Despite toys being a smaller sector compared to landscape with excellent credit solutions and
engineering or electronics, notable growth has customer-centric offerings”, adding that it aims
been observed. to offer customer-centric, solution-driven
 Engineering goods, driven by drones, solar assistance that assures service through
modules, turbo jets, auto components, electric innovation.
vehicles, and parts, are expected to witness  The strategic rebranding not only embodies
growth to USD 300 billion by FY30 from USD adaptability but positions BOBCARD as a
107 billion in FY23. forward-thinking financial partner.
 Pharma exports, focusing on biosimilars and
innovation drugs, are anticipated to rise from IMF lifts 2024 growth outlook
USD 25 billion to USD 57 billion in the same
period.  The International
 Outbound shipments of electronics are Monetary Fund
projected to reach USD 100 billion by FY30, (IMF) raised India’s
propelled by mobile phones, laptops, wearable growth projection
electronics, and electronic accessories. for 2024-25 (FY25)
 Similarly, total textile exports, led by readymade by 20 basis points
garments, technical and man-made fibre textiles, (bps) to 6.5 per cent
are expected to reach USD 97.7 billion in the in its World
next six years. Marine and agriculture product Economic Outlook
exports are estimated to hit USD 118 billion by (WEO) update, citing
FY30. buoyant domestic
 Additionally, value-added items like canned and spending and
dried products are identified for export improved global
promotion, with a special focus on the food growth prospects.
processing sector.  The estimate falls below the 7 per cent growth
 Furthermore, the commerce department expects projection by the Ministry of Finance (FinMin).
India's ecommerce exports to reach USD 200  For FY24, the IMF raised India’s growth
billion by FY30, driven by various products estimate by 40 bps to 6.7 per cent compared to
including Ayurvedic and organic items, spices,
its October report, which is still lower than the
textiles, leather goods, handicrafts, personal care
7.3 per cent growth projected by the National
products, art, paintings, jewellery, auto parts, and
electronic appliances. Statistical Office earlier this month.
 Growth in India is projected to remain strong at
6.5 percent in both 2024 (FY25) and 2025
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
(FY26), with an upgrade from October of 0.2  The report also covers rising concerns over
percentage point for both years, reflecting climate change and the increasing focus on
resilience in domestic demand. reducing carbon emissions.
 The IMF raised its global growth projection for  The report details advancements in highways,
2024 by 20 bps to 3.1 per cent, compared to its freight corridors, airports, metro rail
October report, citing greater-than-expected networks, and trans-sea links, showcasing
resilience in the United States and several large tangible and transformative growth in physical
emerging market and developing economies, as and digital infrastructure.
well as fiscal support in China.  The report points out that 51 crore Jan Dhan
 For China, the IMF increased its growth forecast Yojana bank accounts, holding over 2.1 lakh
for 2024 by 40 bps to 4.6 per cent. crore rupees in deposits, indicate good financial
Learn Along: health among Indian households.
About IMF  The report, in short, argues that India's
Formation: 27 December 1945 Headquarter: 'transformative growth' has helped its
Washington, D.C., U.S. MD: Kristalina Georgieva economy remain a bright spot in an otherwise
gloomy global economy.
The Indian Economy: A Review
NSRCEL IIM Bangalore and SIDBI launch pre-
 In a comprehensive report titled "The Indian
seed deep tech accelerator fund for start-ups in
Economy: A Review," prepared by V Anantha
deep tech and emerging businesses area
Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor to the
government, and his team of economists, India
 IIM Bangalore’s NSRCEL and SIDBI have
takes stock of its economic journey over the
past decade. collaborated to establish a pre-seed fund,
 According to Nageswaran, India is confident in specifically for start-ups in the deep tech and
weathering emerging disturbances, emerging businesses area.
transitioning from fragility to stability and strength.  The MoU signed between the two
 The report emphasises India's deft organizations laid the foundation for a multi-
management of crude oil supply and predicts year relationship to nurture startups and lead
a growth rate pegged at or above 7 per cent them towards scaling up their business activities.
for FY24 and FY25, marking a resilient economic  Over the past twenty years, NSRCEL has been
recovery after the Covid-era disruptions. supporting early-stage ventures in India,
 The report highlights three key trends India will incubating more than 1600 start-ups and
face in the years ahead. mentoring many more.
1. Firstly, the era of hyper-globalisation in  The organization’s singular focus has been on
global manufacturing has ended. supporting founders who are building
2. Secondly, India is not expected to witness disruptive solutions in their early stages.
de-globalisation soon, but the government  It provides support to startups and
plans to focus on onshoring and friend- entrepreneurs through various programs,
shoring of production. including incubation, mentorship, and educational
3. Thirdly, India will have to address initiatives. The center aims to create an
challenges such as supply chain disruptions, ecosystem that nurtures and accelerates the
the impact of Artificial Intelligence on growth of early-stage ventures, said a release.
services trade and employment, and the Learn Along:
energy transition.  SIDBI, set up on 2nd April 1990 under an Act of
Indian Parliament, acts as the Principal Financial
Institution for Promotion, Financing and
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Development of the Micro, Small and Medium  Chairman & Managing Director: Sivasubramanian
Enterprise (MSME) sector as well as for co-ordination Ramann
of functions of institutions engaged in similar activities.
SEBI and FINANCIAL AWARENESS

NTPC Limited gets certified as a Top Employer
2024 in India by the Top Employers Institute Regulator fines Air India Rs 1.1 cr for violating
flight safety rules
 The 2024 Top Employers of the Top Employers
Institute have been announced and NTPC  The Directorate General of Civil Aviation
Limited has been certified as a Top Employer (DGCA) imposed a fine of Rs 1.1 crore on Air
in India by the institute. India for violating safety rules on specific long-
 NTPC completed the following steps in order range routes.
to qualify for the certification: HR Best Practice  The penalty follows a pilot's complaint filed in
October last year, accusing Air India of carrying
Survey, Validation and Audit. NTPC’s
insufficient emergency oxygen on its B777
performance score was rated against an
aircraft operating on India-US routes.
international standard and NTPC has achieved
 Air India disagrees with the DGCA's order, stating
Top Employer status. that safety was not compromised, and they are
 The HR Best Practice Survey covers six HR reviewing options, including the right to appeal.
domains consisting of 20 topics including  This is not the first instance of regulatory action
People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent against Air India; earlier this month, the airline
Acquisition, Learning, Diversity, Equity & was fined Rs 30 lakh for not rostering sufficient
Inclusion, Wellbeing and more. pilots trained for low visibility landings during fog
 The survey is based on an international season.
standard; so, participants are measured against  In June 2022, Air India was fined for not
globally applicable best practice. compensating passengers with valid tickets who
were denied boarding.
 Director (HR), Dillip Kumar Patel received the
Learn Along:
Award on behalf of NTPC at the Top
About DGCA
Employers 2024 Certification Celebration Event  The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is the
held in Singapore on 25th January, 2024. regulatory body in the field of Civil Aviation primarily
Learn Along: dealing with safety issues.
 Top Employers Institute is a global HR authority on  It is responsible for regulation of air transport
certifying excellence in HR best practices. services to/from/within India and for enforcement of
 The firm has been dedicated to accelerating the civil air regulations, air safety and airworthiness
impact of HR strategies to enrich the world of standards.
work through certification, benchmarking, aligning and  It also co-ordinates all regulatory functions with
connecting Top Employers around the globe. International Civil Aviation Organisation.
 Being certified as a Top Employer showcases  Headquarters: New Delhi
NTPC’s dedication to a better world of work, which
is exhibited through its “People before PLF (Plant Canara HSBC Life Insurance launches iSelect
Guaranteed Future Plus
Load Factor)” approach and progressive HR policies
and people practices which contribute towards the
 Canara HSBC Life Insurance introduces iSelect
actualization of the organizational vision and creating
Guaranteed Future Plus, a comprehensive plan
positive organizational outcomes and enhanced
employee engagement.
for life insurance and assured benefits.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The plan offers financial security and stability  In category II, Rs.3,850 crore provisioned for
for individuals and their families at various life private sector as well as Government PSUs
stages and milestones. in which lump-sum grant of Rs.1,000 crore or
 Key features include a life cover, 100% 15% of capex, whichever is lower provided for
guaranteed benefits, and financial reserves for
each project. At least one project will be bid
significant milestones like marriage, retirement,
and child education. out on tariff-based bidding process and its
 Optional benefits allow customization of criteria will be designed in consultation with
coverage based on specific needs and NITI Aayog.
preferences.  In category III, Rs.600 crore provisioned for
 The plan provides flexible options: Endowment demonstration Projects (indigenous
Option for lumpsum benefits, Regular Income technology) and/or small-scale product-based
Option for steady income, Long-Term Income with Gasification Plants under which lump-sum
Return of Premium Option for guaranteed income
grant of Rs.100 crore or 15% of capex,
over an extended period, and Early Income Option
for immediate financial assistance. whichever is lower, will be given to the
selected entity who will have a minimum
 Two optional benefits enhance security: Payor
Capex of Rs. 100 Crore and minimum
Premium Protection Cover waives future
premiums if the policyholder passes away, and production of 1500 Nm3/hr Syn gas.
Accidental Death Benefit provides an additional  The selection of entities under category II
payout in case of accidental death. and III shall be carried out through a
Learn Along competitive and transparent bidding process.
About Canara HSBC Life Insurance  The grant will be paid to the selected entity in
Established: 2008 MD and CEO : Mr.
two equal instalments.
Anuj Mathur
 EGoS chaired by Secretary Coal shall be
fully empowered to make any changes
Cabinet approves the scheme for promotion of required in the modalities of the scheme
Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects of Government subject to the condition that overall financial
PSUs and Private Sector towards incentive for outlay remain within Rs.8,500 crore.
coal gasification projects under three categories
India surpasses Hong Kong, securing the fourth
 The Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister spot in global stock markets
Narendra Modi approved the scheme for
promotion of Coal/Lignite Gasification  India's stock market has surpassed Hong
Projects of Government PSUs and Private Kong's, claiming the fourth position in global
Sector with an outlay of Rs.8,500 crore towards equity market ranking.
incentive for coal gasification projects under three  The combined value of shares listed on Indian
categories. exchanges reached $4.33 trillion, exceeding
 The cabinet has approved the scheme as Hong Kong's $4.29 trillion.
follows:  Factors contributing to India's stock market surge
 Total outlay of Rs.8,500 crore will be include a rapidly expanding retail investor
provided as financial assistance for coal base, robust corporate earnings, and a stable
gasification projects under three categories. political environment.
 In category I, Rs.4,050 crore provisioned for  India's consumption-driven economy and
Government PSUs in which upto 3 projects status as an attractive alternative to China also
will be supported by providing lump-sum play a role in its stock market success.
grant of Rs.1,350 crore or 15% of capex,  Hong Kong has faced challenges, including anti-
whichever is lower. Covid-19 measures, regulatory crackdowns, a
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
property-sector crisis, and geopolitical  The FAL in India will integrate major
tensions, leading to a historic slump. components, conduct testing, qualification, and
 In 2023, overseas funds poured over $21 billion deliver H125 helicopters to customers in India
into Indian shares, contributing to the eighth and the region.
consecutive year of gains for India's  The facility will take 24 months to set up, with
benchmark S&P BSE Sensex Index. deliveries of the first 'Made in India' H125s
expected to commence in 2026.
ICAI collaborates with IIM Ahmedabad to develop  Airbus currently sources $750 million worth
‘Vision 2049’ of components from India annually, expected
to increase to $1.5 billion per year by 2026.
 CA Institute, which is the world’s largest accounting
body, has initiated an exercise to develop a ‘Vision Ola’s Krutrim is first AI unicorn in India
2049’ document to position itself as a globally
recognised leader in the accounting profession.
 Ola group’s AI firm Krutrim has raised $50
 This vision document will be prepared in
collaboration with IIM Ahmedabad. million at a valuation of $1 billion in a funding
 All members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants round led by Matrix Partners.
of India (ICAI), students, and stakeholders can  This makes Krutrim India’s first artificial
provide their inputs and suggestions for this intelligence unicorn.
exercise by February 9.
 ICAI will celebrate its 100th year of existence in the
 Krutrim, India’s own AI company focused on
year 2049. building the complete AI computing stack,
 ICAI Vision 2049 aims to empower chartered announced the successful closure of its first
accountants as catalysts for economic progress, round of funding.
fostering a dynamic environment that seamlessly
 The funds raised will be instrumental in
integrates with India’s overarching objectives.
accelerating the firm’s mission to revolutionise
Learn Along:
About ICAI the AI landscape, drive innovation, and expand
 The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is global reach.
a statutory body established by an Act of
Parliament, viz. The Chartered Accountants Act, Zomato Payments gets RBI approval to operate
1949 for regulation and development of the profession as online payment aggregator
of Chartered Accountants in the country.
 Zomato Payments Private Limited (ZPPL), a
Airbus, Tata to set up India’s first private wholly-owned subsidiary of Zomato Limited, has
copter assembly line secured the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI)
approval to function as an online payment
 Airbus Helicopters partners with Tata Group to aggregator.
establish India's first private sector helicopter  The food delivery platform has disclosed that the
assembly facility. central bank has granted permission for it to
 Tata Advanced Systems Limited, a Tata Group function as a payment aggregator and issuer
subsidiary, will set up the Final Assembly Line of pre-paid payment instruments, effective
(FAL) along with Airbus Helicopters. from January 24, 2024.
 The FAL will produce Airbus' H125 single-  Zomato entered a partnership with ICICI Bank
engine civil helicopter for India and export to to launch its own unified payments interface
neighboring countries. (UPI) offering called Zomato UPI last year,
 Tata and Airbus are already setting up a FAL in simplifying transactions for users without the
Vadodara for the C-295 military transport need for additional payment apps.
aircraft.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 This move aligns Zomato Payments with other  The announcement was made during the second
notable entities like Tata Pay, Razorpay, and meeting of the reconstituted Board of Trade
Cashfree, which have also acquired the coveted (BOT), where Goyal revealed the initiation of work
payments license from the RBI. on the Trade Connect ePlatform.
 The BOT, advising the government on trade-
SEBI Chairperson Launches CDSL’s Multi- related policy measures, discussed leveraging
Lingual Initiatives for ease of doing business for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), encouraging
investors
startups and MSMEs to expand globally, boosting
exports in the services sector, and
 Central Depository Services (India) Limited
internationalizing goods and services for
(CDSL), Asia’s first listed depository, announced
improved quality and economies of scale.
the launch of two unique multi-lingual
 The Trade Connect ePlatform is expected to
initiatives to signify its commitment to inclusivity
facilitate new exporters by providing
and accessibility in the capital market landscape.
information on regulations, market access,
 These initiatives were launched by SEBI
export trends, Free Trade Agreement benefits,
Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch at the silver
sector-specific events, and a channel for
jubilee function held on January 17.
 CDSL introduces a revolutionary upgrade in addressing trade-related queries to government
investor CAS, enabling investors to receive their officials.
statements in their preferred language amongst  The BOT meeting focused on reviewing export
23 diverse Indian languages. performance, achieving the $2 trillion export
 This ‘Apka CAS – Apki Zubaani’ initiative is a target for 2030, discussing priorities in the new
testament to easier accessibility, offering Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, and formulating
investors a consolidated view of their securities strategies for export growth.
held in a demat account in a language of their
choice.
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance introduces ICICI
 A unique multi-lingual chatbot on the CDSL Pru Guaranteed Pension Plan Flexi with ‘benefit
website, ‘CDSL Buddy Sahayta 24*7,’ aims to
enhancer
simplify investors’ journeys toward
‘Atmanirbharta’ or self-sufficiency.  ICICI Prudential Life Insurance recently
Learn Along: introduced the ICICI Pru Guaranteed Pension
About SEBI Plan Flexi with “benefit enhancer", the
 The Securities and Exchange Board of India was
established as a statutory body in the year 1992 and industry's inaugural annuity plan offering
the provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board customers the flexibility to receive a full
of India Act, 1992 (15 of 1992) came into force on premium refund at any point from the date of
January 30, 1992. purchase.
 Chairperson: Ms. Madhabi Puri Buch  This product offers a variety of annuity options.
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra Customers can opt for a single life option,
ensuring income for their lifetime, or choose a
Government to launch an ePlatform ‘Trade joint life option.
Connect’ for Indian exporters  The joint life option includes a waiver of the
premium feature.
 Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal
announced the upcoming launch of an ePlatform Foxconn to partner with HCL Group for
named 'Trade Connect' for Indian exporters to chip testing plant
engage with international trade stakeholders
by May, aiming to support the $2 trillion export
target by 2030.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Taiwan’s Foxconn will partner with tech firm  The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
HCL Group for a semiconductor assembly and has introduced Jeevan Dhara II, a new individual
testing facility in India. savings, deferred annuity plan.
 The firms will set up an outsourced assembly  Under the plan, annuity is guaranteed from
and testing (OSAT) unit in the south Asian inception and as many as 11 annuity options will
be available.
nation.
 There is higher annuity rates at higher ages
 An OSAT plant packages, assembles and tests and life cover will be available during the
foundry-made silicon wafers, turning them into deferment period.
finished semiconductor chips.  The minimum age at entry should be 20 years and
 India unit will own a 40% stake in the joint maximum 80, 70, 65 years.
venture with a $37.2 million investment.
 The partners aim to build an ecosystem and Google Pay signed agreement to expand UPI for
foster supply chain resilience for the domestic international payments
industry,” Foxconn said in a statement.
 Foxconn is also looking to set up a  Google Pay and NPCI International Payments
semiconductor fabrication plant in India, signed an agreement to expand the scope of
where the government has offered $10 billion in UPI payments outside India.
incentives to start local chip manufacturing.  The MoU aims to enable Indian travelers to
transact digitally abroad using systems similar
LIC overtakes SBI to become the most valuable to UPI in other countries.
PSU crore
 India is simplifying cross-border digital
payments using UPI rails for remittances
 Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has
between countries.
surpassed State Bank of India (SBI) in market
 The strategic partnership with NPCI aims to
capitalization, becoming the most valued
propel UPI onto the global stage and simplify
public sector undertaking.
foreign transactions for Indian travelers.
 LIC's market capitalization is Rs 5.64 lakh
 NPCI had previously signed an MoU with
crore, while SBI's is Rs 5.63 lakh crore. France's Lyra in July 2023 for UPI and RuPay
 In 2023, LIC gained over 22%, and in 2024, it cards to be accepted in Europe.
has seen an additional surge of 7.5%.  Bhutan, Nepal, the UAE, and Canada have also
 In H1FY24, LIC reported a net profit of ₹17,469 accepted UPI as a payment mechanism.
crore, reflecting growth from ₹16,635 crore in the  Banks like Axis Bank, DBS Bank India, ICICI
corresponding period of the previous year. The Bank, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, and
new business premium (individual) for H1FY24 State Bank of India provide international
surged by 2.65% to ₹25,184 crore. functionality for UPI through their apps.
Learn Along: About UPI
About LIC  Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a system that
 LIC is fully owned by the government. It was set up in powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile
1 September 1956. It has the biggest share in India’s application (of any participating bank), merging
several banking features, seamless fund routing &
insurance business.
merchant payments into one hood.
 Chairperson: Siddhartha Mohanty
 It also caters to the “Peer to Peer” collect request
Headquarters: Mumbai
which can be scheduled and paid as per requirement
and convenience.
LIC unveils Jeevan Dhara II deferred
 NPCI conducted a pilot launch with 21 member banks.
annuity cover
The pilot launch was on 11th April 2016 by Dr.
Raghuram G Rajan, Governor, RBI at Mumbai.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Evergreening of loans is a process whereby a lender testing indigenous sustainable aviation fuel
tries to revive a loan that is on the verge of default or in (SAF).
default by extending more loans to the same borrower.  The collaboration aims to support SAF
 Downstream investments refer to the actual production and commercialization in India
investments made by AIFs in companies using raised using HEFA technology with locally sourced
funds from investors.
feedstocks.
 HEFA technology refines vegetable oils, waste
Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves
oils, or fats into SAF through hydrogenation.
amalgamation of Shriram GI Holdings Private
 The focus is on technical assessment,
Limited with Shriram General Insurance
approvals, market access, and sustainability
Company Limited
accreditation for SAF production.
 The Competition Commission of India (CCI)  The airbus aims for 100% SAF compatibility in
has approved the proposed amalgamation of its aircraft by 2030; currently certified for 50%
Shriram GI Holdings Private Limited with SAF blend.
Shriram General Insurance Company Limited.  CSIR-IIP will study fuel properties and their
 SGIH undertakes the business of investments, impact on aircraft systems and the environment.
facilitate strategic, private equity and third-  The airbus will provide guidance on the
party investors, and to carry on consultancy evaluation process for new fuels, sharing testing
business, including in particular in relation to the and systems knowledge.
general insurance products sector. Learn Along:
 SGIC is engaged in the business of providing About Airbus
general insurance, undertake re-insurance, Founded: 10 July 2000
counter insurance of insurances and to carry Headquarters: Leiden, Netherlands
on generally every kind of non-life insurance and About CSIR
Director General: Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi Founded:
re-insurance business relating to general
26 September 1942
insurance.
Learn Along:
Fiscal deficit at 5.2-5.4% in interim Budget
About CCI
Formed: 14 October 2003 Headquarters: 2024-25: Goldman Sachs
New Delhi Ravneet Kaur: Chairperson
 The Centre, in its interim Budget, is likely to
Tata Motors becomes 3rd Tata group firm announce a fiscal deficit target in the range of
to cross Rs 3-trillion market cap 5.2-5.4 per cent of gross domestic product
(GDP) for FY25 with its medium-term fiscal
 Tata Motors' market capitalization crossed Rs consolidation target of 4.5 per cent of GDP by
3 trillion, hitting a new high. FY26, According to Goldman Sachs India’s
 Combined market cap of Tata Motors and Tata fiscal outlook report.
Motors DVR reached Rs 3.02 trillion in intra-day  The government would meet the FY24 fiscal
trade. deficit target of 5.9 per cent of GDP, with
 Tata Motors became the third Tata group expectations of receipts upside of 0.2 per cent of
company to surpass Rs 3 trillion market cap,
GDP.
after TCS and Titan Company.
 While income taxes and corporate taxes are
expected to grow at around 15 per cent in
Airbus and CSIR-IIP to collaborate on producing FY25, the government is likely to lower its target
sustainable aviation fuel for disinvestment in the next finalncial year.
 Airbus and CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum  The government has raised capex spending by
over 30 per cent CAGR between FY21 and
(CSIR-IIP) signed MoU for developing and
FY24 Budget estimates (BE), raising the
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
budgeted capex target to 3.3 per cent of GDP,  Collaboration between RBI and Monetary
the highest in 18 years. Authority of Singapore led to this
 To fund the central government’s fiscal deficit of interoperability milestone.
nearly Rs 18 trillion in FY25, Goldman Sachs  UPI users can send money to PayNow
has estimated a net borrowing of around Rs members in Singapore using mobile number or
12 trillion, after accounting for non-market virtual payment address.
financing from small savings, state provident  Adoption of UPI in cross-border transactions
funds. For state governments, it has assumed 70 enhances financial inclusion and contributes to
per cent of the fiscal deficit in FY25 - 2.5 per cent India's digital payment ecosystem growth,
of GDP, to be financed by market loans. according to NPCI.
About UPI
 Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a system that
India bonds set to be included in the
powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile
Bloomberg emerging market index application (of any participating bank), merging
several banking features, seamless fund routing &
 Bloomberg Index Services proposed including merchant payments into one hood.
eligible Indian bonds in its emerging market  It also caters to the “Peer to Peer” collect request
local currency index from September, a move which can be scheduled and paid as per requirement
that could lead to billions of dollars of inflows into and convenience.
the country.  NPCI conducted a pilot launch with 21 member banks.
 The Indian government began discussing the The pilot launch was on 11th April 2016 by Dr.
inclusion of its securities in global indexes as Raghuram G Rajan, Governor, RBI at Mumbai.
far back as 2013 but restrictions on foreign
investment in domestic debt hampered the Indian Bank inks pact with FPL Tech to launch
process. co-branded credit card
 In April 2020, the Reserve Bank of India
introduced securities that were exempt from  Public sector Indian Bank has partnered with
foreign investment restrictions under a "fully FPL Technologies, to launch the Indian Bank
accessible route" (FAR). One Co-branded Credit Card.
 Under the proposal, inclusion of India FAR  Leveraging the Visa and RuPay platforms, the
bonds in the Bloomberg EM Local Currency cards would be issued by Indian Bank and
Indices is to be phased in over a 5-month period managed by FPL Technologies.
starting in September 2024.  The partnership brings in Indian Bank, FPL
Technologies, NPCI, and VISA, signaling a
synergy of expertise, innovation, and commitment
NPCI expands UPI's linkage with Singapore's
toward providing customers with unparalleled
PayNow
services in the credit card domain.
Learn Along:
 NPCI launched UPI-PayNow linkage for direct
About Indian Bank
remittances between India and Singapore. Incorporated: March 5, 1907 MD and CEO:
 Users of BHIM, PhonePe, and Paytm can Shanti Lal Jain Headquarters: Chennai
access the service.
 Participating banks include Axis Bank, DBS Zerodha Launches India's First Growth Liquid
Bank India, ICICI Bank, Indian Bank, Indian ETF
Overseas Bank, and State Bank of India.
 Third-party applications and more banks like
 Zerodha Fund House unveiled India's inaugural
Bank of Baroda, HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra growth liquid exchange-traded fund (ETF), the
Bank, and others to be added soon. Zerodha Nifty 1D Rate Liquid ETF.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Set for listing on both the NSE and BSE alleviation program implemented by the Ministry
exchanges by 24 January 2024 this ETF mirrors of Rural Development, Government of India.
the Nifty 1D Rate Index, tracking returns from  It aims to reduce poverty by enabling the poor
overnight market lending by market participants. household to access gainful self-employment and
 Managed by the experienced Apurv Parikh, the skilled wage employment opportunities resulting in
fund strategically invests in TREPS (Treasury sustainable and diversified livelihood options for the
Bills Repurchase) on the CCIL (Clearing poor.
Corporation of India Ltd) platform, ensuring a
low credit and interest rate risk. Gensol Engineering signs MoU with Gujarat
govt, to invest Rs 2,000 crore for EV plant
‘Svyam Siddha’- SBI’s Financial Product to
 Gensol Engineering has entered into a
finance SHG Women led Enterprises in Rural
partnership with the Government of Gujarat to
India
help the country's path towards a sustainable
future.
 Additional Secretary, Deendayal Antyodaya
Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission,  A memorandum of understanding (MoU) to this
Charanjit Singh, and Chief General Manager, effect was signed with the Gujarat government
State Bank of India, Corporate office Mumbai, as part of the investment promotion activity
Shantanu Pendsey signed an MoU for rural Self- for Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024.
Help Group (SHG) women's Enterprise Financing.  As part of the MoU, the company will invest Rs
2,000 crore to set up an EV manufacturing plant
 State Bank of India introduces "Svyam Siddha,"
in Gujarat.
a financial product tailored for SHG women
 The project will generate around 1,500 jobs in
entrepreneurs, offering loans up to Rs. 5 lakhs,
the region, Gensol said in a regulatory filing.
with simplified documentation requirements and
 The 10th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global
reduced Turn Around Time (TAT).
Summit is scheduled from January 10-12, 2024.
 The loan application process will be facilitated
by DAY-NRLM, eliminating the need for
Canada-based Brookfield Asset Management to
extensive documents like quotations and Detailed buy ATC India in $2 bn deal
Project Reports (DPRs).
 A training toolkit package was launched at the  Canada-based Brookfield Asset Management
event to promote formal finance access for will acquire the Indian business of American
SHG women entrepreneurs, covering topics like Tower Corporation (ATC) for an enterprise value
banking fundamentals and financial statements. of Rs 16,628 crore ($2 billion).
 Developed with the International Finance  After its third acquisition in India's telecom sector
Corporation under the World Bank-funded in four years, Brookfield is set to become the
NRETP, the toolkit aims to enhance SRLMs' largest manager of telecom towers in the
capacities for increased formal finance access. country.
Learn Along:  The deal will see Data Infrastructure Trust (DIT),
About Deendayal Antyodaya Yojna-National Rural an infrastructure investment trust sponsored
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) by an affil-iate of Brookfield Asset
Management, acquire 100 per cent of equity
 Deendayal Antyodaya Yojna-National Rural
interests in ATC India.
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) was launched by
 100% equity interests in ATC India to be
the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD),
acquired by Data Infrastructure Trust, which is
Government of India in June 2011.
sponsored by an affiliate of Brookfield.
 Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural
Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) is a flagship poverty

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Govt to invest Rs 60,000 cr in river cruise  Bajaj Finserv has introduced the Credit Pass,
tourism, green vessel development by 2047 marking a pivotal moment in the landscape of
credit monitoring in India.
 Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal  This innovative offering, powered by Indias
announced the Centre would invest Rs 60,000 largest credit bureau, CIBIL, is set to empower
crore by 2047 in river cruise customers with unprecedented real-time
 The central government aims to invest another
access to their credit health report.
Rs 15,000 crore in green transport over the
Learn Along:
next 10 years to develop 1,000 vessels and
About Bajaj Finserv
ferries. Founded: 30 April 2007 Headquarters:
 In total, there will be a Rs 60,000 crore Pune Chairman, MD & CEO: Sanjiv Bajaj
investment by 2047, and it will be through the
public-private partnership (PPP) model. Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal launches e-
 Of the Rs 45,000 crore investment in cruise commerce start-up OppDoor
tourism, an estimated Rs 35,000 crore has
been earmarked for cruise vessels while Rs
 Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal has come up
10,000 crore will be used for the development of
cruise terminal infrastructure. with a new venture – 'OppDoor', which will help
e-commerce companies expand operations
World Bank Prices GBP 1.5 Billion 5-year globally by providing them with end-to-end
Benchmark Capping Productive Week in the solutions.
Capital Markets  According to the filings, the company is
registered in Singapore and was founded in
 The World Bank's International Bank for May 2021.
Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) has  OppDoor was previously known as Three State
successfully priced a 5-year Great British Ventures Pte Ltd,.
Pound sterling (GBP) benchmark bond due  OppDoor will first target e-commerce
October 2028. businesses in the US, Canada, Mexico, the
 The Sustainable Development Bond aims to United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore, Japan,
generate GBP 1.5 billion from investors to and Australia.
finance World Bank initiatives for sustainable  OppDoor delivers fully-managed Amazon
development in member countries. services aimed at expanding your private
 The bond has an annual coupon of 3.875% and label brands across multiple regions globally.
an annual yield of 3.889%, priced at +31 basis
points over the 1.625% UK Gilt due October 2028. India Ratings revises PNB Housing
Finance NCD ratings from AA to AA+
 The bond is set to be listed on the Luxembourg
Stock Exchange.
Learn Along:  India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has
About World Bank upgraded the rating of the PNB Housing
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States Finance (non-convertible debentures) to ‘IND
Founded: July 1944 President: Ajay Banga AA+’ from ‘IND AA’ with stable outlook.
 NCDs limit has been split into bank loans and
Bajaj Finserv brings you India’s First Credit NCDs and ‘IND AA+’ rating has been assigned to
Pass, powered by CIBIL the bank loans.
 The rating rationale, published on January 2,
2024, mentions that the key drivers for the
rating upgrade are granularisation of loan
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
book with 96 per cent being retail and almost  The average deal size reduced significantly to
complete rundown of the corporate book, robust ₹867 crore compared with ₹1,483 crore in 2022
capital buffers post equity infusion of ₹2,500 and ₹1,884 crore in 2021.
through rights issue, improved asset quality, Learn Along:
diversified resource profile with the ability to raise About IPO
funds from banks and the capital markets,  An Initial Public Offer (IPO) is the selling of securities
adequate liquidity and improvement in to the public in the primary market.
profitability.  It is the largest source of funds with long or indefinite
Learn Along: maturity for the company.
 An IPO is an important step in the growth of a
About PNB Housing Finance
business.
Incorporated In : 1988 MD and CEO:
 It provides a company access to funds through the
Mr. Girish Kousgi public capital market
PFC signs MoU with Govt. of Gujarat for Power

AU Small Finance Bank & Mastercard unveil
Projects worth Rs. 25,000 Crore
Debit Card for its salaried customers
 AU Small Finance Bank announces  Power Finance Corporation Ltd. (PFC) signs
partnership with Mastercard for the official MoU with the Government of Gujarat for
financial backing in power projects on January 3,
launch of the Mastercard Debit Card.
2024, in Gandhinagar.
 The initiative is tailored for the bank's
 The agreement aims to support generation,
corporate salary customers under the theme transmission, and distribution projects in
Swipe & Save. Gujarat.
 The card includes a loyalty program,  The collaboration includes key power utilities
reinforcing the idea that banking involves like GUVNL, GSECL, GETCO, DGVCL, MGVCL,
gaining as well as spending. PGVCL, and UGVCL.
Learn Along:  Rs. 25,000 Crore financial assistance pledged
About AU Small Finance Bank under the MoU for diverse projects in Gujarat.
Part-time Chairman & Independent Director: Mr. Raj Learn Along:
Vikash Verma Founded: 1996 About Power Finanace Corporation
Headquarters: Jaipur  Incorporated on July 16th, 1986, Power Finance
Corporation Ltd. is a Schedule-A Maharatna CPSE,
and is a leading Non-Banking Financial Corporation in
IPO fundraising drops 17% YoY to ₹50,000 cr. in the Country.
2023  PFC's registered office is located at New Delhi and
regional offices are located at Mumbai and Chennai.
 Fund raising by large corporates with minimum ‘KABIL to invest over ₹200 cr. to secure
post issue paid-up capital of more than ₹10 crore lithium in Argentina’
through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2023
dropped 17% to ₹49,434 crore by 57 companies
 India’s KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Ltd.) will
compared with ₹59,303 crore raised by 40 IPOs
invest ₹211 crore over a five-year-period for
in 2022, according to primedabase.com data.
exploration of five lithium blocks in Fiambala
 However, if Life Insurance Corporation’s 2022
area of Argentina.
IPO is excluded, then fund raising in 2023 would
be up by 28% as per data.  An exploration and development agreement is
 An analysis shows overall public equity fund expected to be signed with CAMYEN, a state-
raising in 2023 increased by 59% to ₹1,44,283 owned miner in Argentina’s Catamarca province.
crore as against ₹90,886 crore in 2022”.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Approval of Ministry of Mines, for the above North Eastern Development Finance Corporation
proposals, has also been received in Ltd sanctions ₹766.47 crores and disburses
December. ₹547.11 crores for 5338 project in NE Region
 As mutually agreed with CAMYEN, the
agreement is planned to be signed in January  NEDFi played a vital role in facilitating the
2024 at Argentina, and with that, the maiden establishment of new industrial and service
sector projects in the North Eastern Region.
project of KABIL will be launched.
 Between January 1, 2023, and November 30,
 Chile and Argentina account for 30-35% of the
2023, NEDFi assisted approximately 5,338
world’s lithium supplies. projects with total sanctions and
Learn Along: disbursements of ₹766.47 crore and ₹547.11
About Argentina crore, respectively.
Capital: Buenos Aires Currency: Argentine
 The assistance spanned diverse sectors such as
peso education, training, food processing,
handlooms, handicrafts, healthcare, hotels,
REC Ltd, RVNL sign Rs 35,000 crore MoU to tourism, and microfinance.
finance infrastructure projects  State-wise sanctions and disbursements
during the period are detailed for Arunachal
 REC Limited signed an MoU with Rail Vikas Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram,
Nigam Limited (RVNL) for financial support of up Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, with a total of
to Rs. 35,000 crore over the next five years. ₹766.47 crore sanctioned and ₹547.11 crore
 The agreement covers various projects, disbursed.
including multi-modal logistics hubs, rail  NEDFi focuses on the development of the
infrastructure, road development, port Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) sector,
facilities, and metro projects. identifying and nurturing potential first-generation
 REC Limited, established in 1969, is a local entrepreneurs and providing finance at
Maharatna CPSE under the Ministry of Power, concessional interest rates.
focusing on power infrastructure and expanding  Initiatives include credit schemes extended at
concessional rates, and NEDFi promotes and
into non-power sectors.
develops the MSME and Microfinance sectors in
 REC's loan book exceeds Rs 4,74,275 crore, the region.
covering areas like generation, transmission,
 Specific projects, such as Eco Heritage Villa in
distribution, renewable energy, and emerging Imphal, Manipur, and Shalom Bible House in
technologies. Kohima, Nagaland, received financial
 Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) is a Schedule assistance under different schemes.
'A' Navratna CPSE under the Ministry of Learn Along:
Railways, fulfilling 30% of Indian Railways'  NEDFi, registered in 1995, provides financial
assistance to enterprises in the North Eastern Region,
infrastructure needs.
offers microfinance through MFI/NGOs, and provides
 RVNL extends beyond railway projects to road consultancy and advisory services to state
development, port facilities, irrigation, and governments and private sectors.
metro projects interconnected with railway  NEDFi launched the NEDFi Micro Finance Scheme
infrastructure. and NEDFi Micro-Lending Scheme to assist small
 The MoU signifies a significant step in borrowers in unserved and underserved areas,
benefiting over nine lakh beneficiaries, with a focus on
financing key infrastructure initiatives,
women.
contributing to India's growth trajectory.  The collaboration with the Ministry of Development
 REC stocks witnessed the highest returns of of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) led to the
254% among all 13 Maharatnas at the end of establishment of the North East Venture Fund
2023, according to a report by Mint. (NEVF), a dedicated venture capital fund with a capital
commitment of ₹100 crore, supporting 67 projects with

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
investment commitments of ₹98.18 crore as of  Notably, out of the ₹1,67,518.6-crore special

November 30, 2023. assistance (loan) allocated by the Centre under
 Start-ups like Zerund Manufacturing Pvt Ltd, the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for
My3dMeta Private Limited, and Green Biotech Eco- capital expenditure/investment, UP has been the
Solutions Private Limited received investments from highest recipient, securing ₹22,857.9 crore (14
NEVF.
per cent of the total release) over the last four
Centre appoints former NITI Aayog V-C Dr Arvind years.
Panagariya as head of 16th Finance Commission  Recent data from the Union government’s
Ministry of Finance reveals that in FY2023-24, up
 Dr. Arvind Panagariya was appointed to December 13, the State has already received
Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission by ₹12,458.43 crore.
the Centre.  This amount constitutes a significant portion,
 IAS officer Ritvik Ranjanam Pandey named the accounting for 21 per cent of the total assistance
secretary of the Commission. released, which stands at ₹60,307.19 crore.
 The Finance Commission will operate until the  Interestingly, while UP and Bihar are the top two
submission of the report or October 31, 2025, States which have fulfilled the above-mentioned
whichever is earlier. criteria and received maximum allocation under
 The Commission aims to make the Scheme in the last four years, Uttarakhand,
recommendations on tax proceeds Haryana, Kerala and Punjab are among the
distribution, grants-in-aid, and measures for States which have received about 1-2 per cent
augmenting the Consolidated Fund of a State. of the total released amount under the Scheme.
 Panagariya's term as NITI Aayog V-C ended in  In fact, data shows that Andrha Pradesh, Kerala,
Manipur and Punjab have not received any
2017. allocation in 2023-24 and as per the Ministry of
 The Commission's report is expected by
Finance information provided to the Lok Sabha
October 31, 2025, covering a five-year period this month; these States have not met the
from April 1, 2026. eligibility criteria prescribed under the Scheme.
 The Finance Commission is constituted under Learn Along:
Article 280 of the Constitution of India.  The objective of the Special Assistance to States for
Capital Expenditure/Investment is to enhance capital
UP and Bihar get maximum special assistance expenditure by the States.
for capital expenditure and investment  The guidelines of the Scheme for Special Assistance
to States for Capital Investment 2023-24 specify
 The Scheme for Special Assistance to States targets for capital expenditure for each State in the
for Capital Expenditure, launched in FY21, has financial year 2023-24 to qualify for the second
been expanded and continued as ‘Scheme for instalment under Part-I (Untied) of the Scheme for that
Special Assistance to States for Capital fiscal year.
Investment 2023-24’ with allocation of ₹1.3-lakh
crore
NABARD and AGRICULTURE

Piyush Goyal inaugurates Indus Food 2024
Global Demand for Indian Foods:
 Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated
'Indus Food 2024' at India Exposition Mart,  Recognized surging global demand, citing diverse
Greater Noida, highlighting its global platform for agro-climatic zones, 158 GIs, and 708 unique
India's diverse food ecosystem. food items under ODOP initiative.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Underscored success in 'Pradhan Mantri Garib productivity and thereby enhance the farmers'
Kalyan Anna Yojana,' ensuring food security for income.
81 Crore people.  This endeavour will help the Central
government to introduce the use of
Economic Strengths and Culinary Delights: automation, sensors, drones, and Artificial
Intelligence gadgets for agriculture in the future.
 The project envisages the use of Internet of
 Pointed out India's economic strengths as the
Things (IoT) based sensors and drone-based
fastest-growing large economy, attributing
hyper and multi-spectral imaging to generate a
success to solid macroeconomic foundations and
real-time precision database to develop
a youthful demographic dividend.
knowledge on phenological and physiological
 Acknowledged social media and global indicators as influenced by micro-environment of
influencers for promoting Indian culinary delights, various target crops being grown across different
leading to increased popularity of regional agro-climatic conditions of the country.
cuisines. About CSIR
Director General: Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi Founded:
Empowering Women in the Food Sector: 26 September 1942
Artificial reef project inaugurated in

 Emphasized the pivotal role of women, urging
Kerala capital
industry collaboration and focusing on frozen,
packaged, and ready-to-eat foods.
 Artificial reefs deployment in 42 fishing villages
 Advocated for skill development, university
in Thiruvananthapuram district started for fish
exchange programs, and startups, emphasizing
resource enhancement and sustainable
quality, nutrition, organic ingredients, and eco-
management.
friendly packaging.
 6,300 artificial reef units, with 150 for each
village, will be deployed under the initiative.
Indus Food 2024: A Global Culinary Exchange:
 It was inaugurated by Union Minister
Parshottam Rupala via videoconference; Kerala
 Expressed confidence in India's ability to host Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian presided over the
large-scale fairs, highlighting Delhi's potential as launch.
a global hub for expos.  The Project is implemented by Kerala State
 Announced ongoing and upcoming events, Coastal Area Development Corporation
including Aatmanirbhar Bharat Utsav, Bharat (KSCADC) with technical support from Central
Mobility, and Bharat Tex, with a vision for larger Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
exhibitions in 2025.
 ₹13.02 crore project funded under Pradhan
 Revealed plans for India Global Culinary
Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY);
Exchange, inviting 20 top international chefs to
experience India's culinary excellence firsthand. ₹302 crore cleared by Centre for artificial reef
installation in Kerala.
Learn Along:
CSIR launches tech-driven initiative to boost
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
productivity, farmers' income
 The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries,
Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of
 The Council of Scientific and Industrial India is implementing Pradhan Mantri Matsya
Research (CSIR) has launched a unique mission Sampada Yojana – A scheme to bring about Blue
to develop region-specific smart agro- Revolution through sustainable and responsible
technologies for paddy in south India, besides development of fisheries sector in India at an
for other crops, aiming to improve soil health and estimated investment of Rs. 20050 crores for holistic

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
development of fisheries sector including welfare of Learn Along:

fishers. About IUCN
 PMMSY is being implemented in all the States and  IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)
Union Territories for a period of 5 years from FY was established on 5 October 1948 in the French
2020-21 to FY 2024-25. town of Fontainebleau.
 PMMSY is designed to address critical gaps in the
fisheries value chain from fish production, India elected as First Vice Chair of COFI Sub-
productivity and quality to technology, post-harvest Committee on Fisheries Management
infrastructure and marketing.
 It aims to modernize and strengthen the value  India has been elected as the First Vice Chair of
chain, enhance traceability and establish a robust the Food and Agriculture Organization FAO
fisheries management framework while COFI Sub-Committee on Fisheries
simultaneously ensuring the socio-economic welfare of Management.
fishers and fish farmers.  India's role in this crucial Sub-Committee as the
representative of Global South would give much-
Himalayan Wolf Classified as 'Vulnerable' on needed balance and perspective to the global
IUCN Red List narratives concerning fisheries governance and
management.
 The elusive Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus  India will serve as member of a FAO Fisheries
chanco), a significant lupine predator inhabiting Bureau on 'Capture Fisheries' for the first time
the Himalayas, has recently undergone its in 57 years.
inaugural assessment on the International  India is one of the top fishing nations with over
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)'s Red 28 million inland and marine fishers.
Learn Along:
List, revealing a disconcerting status.
About FAO
Vulnerable Classification: Headquarters: Rome, Italy Founded: 16 October
 The Himalayan Wolf, Canis lupus ssp. chanco, is 1945 Director-General: QU Dongyu
officially categorized as 'Vulnerable' on the
IUCN Red List, marking its first-ever assessment Production of sugar lags behind last
conducted on June 27, 2023. year’s output
Population Size Estimate:
 The classification is based on a population size  Production of sugar from October 1, 2023, to
estimate ranging from 2,275 to 3,792 mature January 15, 2024, stood at 149.52 lakh tonne
individuals, acknowledging uncertainties in this compared with 157.87 lakh tonne during same
calculation. period last season.
Geographical Concentration:  With 45.73 lakh tonne of production in the 2.5
 All individuals are concentrated in a single months of this sugar season (October 1, 2023
subpopulation spanning the Himalayan range of to September 30, 2024) in U.P. against 40.65 lakh
Nepal and India and the Tibetan Plateau. tonne for the same period last year, only U.P is
On-going Population Decline:
seeing better sugar production.
 A continuous decline in the population is  The production is lower this year in
suspected due to substantial threats and a lack
Maharashtra, Karnataka and Gujarat.
of conservation action, as highlighted in the Red
 However, recent weather has been favourable for
List assessment.
the standing crop and cane commissioners of
Indian Himalayan Presence:
major States like Uttar Pradesh have done
 India hosts 227-378 mature individuals in its upward revision in sugar production
Himalayan region, with an estimation based on estimates for 2023-2024 to the tune of 5% to 10%
research by Shivam Shrotriya in 2020. each.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 According to the Coffee Board of India's latest

NITI Aayog, govt launch forum for advancing data, export of Robusta coffee bean declined
climate resilient agri-food system 15 per cent to 1.87 lakh tonne in 2023, from 2.20
lakh tonne in the previous year.
 NITI Aayog, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers'  However, the shipment of Arabica coffee bean
Welfare (MoA&FW), and Food and Agriculture rose 5.79 per cent to 46,869 tonne in 2023 from
Organization (FAO) of the United Nations jointly 44,302 tonne in the previous year.
launched the 'Investment Forum for Advancing  Even Instant Coffee exports rose 6.68 per cent
Climate Resilient Agrifood Systems in India'.
to Rs 1.42 lakh tonne as against 1.33 lakh tonne in
 The initiative aims to develop an investment
the said period, as per the data.
and partnership to advance climate-resilient
 In terms of value, total coffee exports were at Rs
agrifood systems among the government,
9,580.58 crore during 2023. The unit value
private sectors, and farmers' organisations, and
financial institutions in India. realisation was Rs 2,54,104 per tonne.
 The two-day meet paved the way for  Italy, Russia, the UAE, Germany and Turkey
are the major coffee export destinations for
discussions and deliberations among key
stakeholders, and their perspectives on national India.
priorities, investment opportunities, partnership,  In its post-blossom estimate, the board has
technical support and cooperation. projected the country's total coffee production
Learn Along: at 3,74,200 tonne for the 2023-24 marketing
About NITI Aayog year (October-September), higher than the actual
 NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming output of 3,52,000 tonne in the previous year.
India) is a think tank of the Indian government,
established in 2015, aimed at promoting and Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry &
advancing technological innovation, Dairying Parshottam Rupala chairs first National
Conference on Promotion of Seaweed
entrepreneurship, and research and development.
Cultivation at Kutch, Gujarat
 Chairperson: Narendra Modi Founded: 1
January 2015  Union Minister Parshottam Rupala chaired the
About FAO National Conference on Promotion of Seaweed
Director-General : QU Dongyu Established: 16 Cultivation on Jan 27, 2024, in Koteshwar,
October 1945 Headquarters: Rome, Italy Gujarat.
 The conference aimed to implement seaweed
Coffee exports from India decline by 5.4% to cultivation on a PAN India basis and promote its
377,000 tonne in 2023 importance for employment generation and
diversifying marine production.
 Coffee shipments from India declined 5.4 per  The Kori Creek pilot project was highlighted as
cent to 3.77 lakh tonne in 2023 due to a fall in the a potential game-changer for seaweed cultivation.
shipment of Robusta coffee, according to the  Union Minister distributed sanction orders for
official data. PMMSY projects, including financial assistance
for seaweed culture establishment.
 The country had exported 3.98 lakh tonne of
 The conference involved approximately 300
coffee in 2022.
participants, including fish farmers, fisheries
 India, Asia's third-largest producer and cooperatives, government officials, scientists, and
exporter, grows Arabica and Robusta variety of researchers.
coffee.  PMMSY is a flagship scheme supporting various
 Arabica coffee bean has lesser caffeine fisheries activities, including seaweed
content than the Robusta. Arabica has a sweet cultivation, for environmental, economic, and
and smoother taste, while the Robusta is generally nutritional benefits.
more bitter and harsher on the taste buds.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Territories, promoting paperless functioning and
Amit Shah will launch ARDBs and RCSs of implementing IT-oriented workflows.
States/UTs in New Delhi on 30th January, 2024  Goals include improving efficiency,
accountability, and transparency in RCS
 Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation offices, setting up analytics and MIS, and
Amit Shah will launch the Computerization ensuring linkage with the national database.
project for Agriculture and Rural Development  The Ministry is also computerizing Primary
Banks (ARDBs) and the Registrar of Agricultural Credit Societies (PACSs)
Cooperative Societies (RCSs) on January 30, nationwide, linking them to NABARD through a
2024. Common National Software.
 The project, organized by the Ministry of
Cooperation and NCDC, aligns with the vision of Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda Launches
"Sahkaar Se Samriddhi" under Prime Minister Framework for Carbon Market in Agriculture
Narendra Modi's leadership. Sector
 The Computerization Project aims to digitize
1851 ARDB units in 13 States/UTs, linking them  Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare
with NABARD through a Common National Arjun Munda launched the framework for
Software. Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) in Agriculture
 Objectives include enhancing operational Sector and Accreditation Protocol of Agroforestry
efficiency, transparency, and accountability in Nurseries.
ARDBs, standardizing business procedures
 The ministry has prepared this framework to
through Common Accounting System (CAS) and
promote VCM in the agricultural sector.
MIS.
 It also aims to encourage small and medium
 The initiative aims to reduce transaction costs,
facilitate loan distribution to farmers, and farmers to avail benefits of carbon credit.
provide real-time data access for better  The Minister termed this framework as the first
monitoring and assessment of schemes. step in the field of carbon emission control.
 The second initiative focuses on computerizing
RCS offices across States and Union
NATIONAL
Centre extends ban on SIMI for 5 years for
fomenting terrorism  The Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment aims to eliminate begging in 30
 The Union Home Ministry has extended the ban cities across India by 2026.
on the Students Islamic Movement of India  The initiative focuses on regions of cultural,
(SIMI) for five years. historical, or tourist importance.
 The organisation was declared an “unlawful  The program operates under the sub-scheme
association” under the Unlawful Activities 'Support for Marginalised Individuals for
(Prevention) Act for the first time in 2001. Livelihood and Enterprises' (SMILE).
 SIMI has been found involved in fomenting  District and municipal authorities will
terrorism, disturbing peace and communal collaborate to identify and transform 'hotspots'
harmony to threaten the sovereignty, security into beggar-free zones.
and integrity of Bharat  A national portal and mobile app will be
launched in mid-February for real-time data
Centre lists 30 cities to make them free of beggars
updates on individuals engaged in begging.
by 2026
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The rehabilitation process includes education,  The consensus-building exercise by the Jal
skill development, and employment Shakti ministry aimed at cooperation between
opportunities for reintegration into mainstream Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, demonstrating
society. success in cooperative federalism.
 The Modified PKC-ERCP link project aims to
India and France agree to set up ‘joint provide drinking and industrial water in 13
surveillance missions’ in Indian Ocean districts of eastern Rajasthan and Malwa and
Chambal regions of Madhya Pradesh.
 India and France have agreed to intensify their  Additionally, it targets irrigation in 2.8 lakh ha.
cooperation in the southwest Indian Ocean, area in both states, optimizing water resources in
building on the “joint surveillance missions” the Chambal basin.
carried out from French La Reunion in 2020 and  The project is approved as part of the National
2022. Perspective Plan of Interlinking of rivers,
 France is the first major Western military power emphasizing its priority status.
with which India has conducted joint patrols  Preparation of the DPR for the Modified PKC-
with Indian Navy’s P-8I maritime patrol aircraft ERCP link is underway, and a Memorandum of
deployed on the French island territory of La Agreement (MoA) will be finalized based on its
Reunion. outcome, covering aspects like water sharing,
 In July 2023, India and France finalised the costs, benefits, and implementation mechanisms.
comprehensive road map for the Indo-Pacific. Learn Along:
 On defence industrial cooperation, for which a About Rajasthan
road map has been adopted, India and France Founded: 30 March 1949 Governor: Kalraj Mishra
reiterated their commitment to further deepening Capital: Jaipur
the integration between the two countries’ About Madhya Pradesh
Capital: Bhopal Governor: Mangubhai C.
respective defence industrial sectors.
Patel Chief minister: Mohan Yadav
Learn Along:
About France PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries invited as “special
Prime minister: Gabriel Attal Capital: Paris
guests” to witness the Republic Day Parade, 2024
Currency: Euro (€) (EUR), CFP franc (XPF)
at Kartavya Path in New Delhi
Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)  A total of 256 beneficiaries of PM Vishwakarma

on Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal-ERCP were invited by the Ministry of Defence as the
(PKC-ERCP) Link Project amongst States of Special Guest to witness the Republic Day
Madhya Pradesh & Rajasthan and Govt. of India Parade held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi.
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched the
 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed PM Vishwakarma Scheme in September.
between Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the  This is a holistic scheme that provides end to
Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS), Govt. of India, for end support to the artisans and craftspeople
the implementation of the "Modified PKC-ERCP" belonging to 18 trades.
under the interlinking of rivers (ILR) program.  As on date, more than two lakh eighty five
 The project integrates the Parbati-Kalisindh- thousand applications have been registered
successfully under the scheme.
Chambal (PKC) link with the Eastern Rajasthan
Canal Project (ERCP) and is the second project Cabinet approves signing of a Memorandum of
under the national perspective plan of ILR.
Understanding (MoU) between India and Oman

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
on cooperation in the field of Information and those from the hills of Bansi-Paharpur area
Technology in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district.
4. The use of steel or iron has been avoided in the
 The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister construction of the temple structure. Instead,
Narendra Modi was apprised of a Memorandum
the Mandir has been constructed employing the
of Understanding (MoU), signed on 15th
country’s indigenous technology and
December, 2023, between the Ministry of
traditional construction materials, aligning with
Electronics and Information Technology of the
India’s age-old building practices and
Republic of India and the Ministry of Transport,
Communications and Information Technology of demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
the Sultanate of Oman on cooperation in the field 5. The entire structure has been valued at Rs
of Information Technology. 1,800 crore. It is being financed by the Shri Ram
 The MoU intends to promote comprehensive Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which has
cooperation between the Parties through mutual collected over Rs 3,500 crore in donations from
support, sharing of technologies, information and across India and abroad.
investments in the field of Information Technology. 6. The idol of Ram Lalla is placed in the main
 The MoU shall come into effect from the date of Garbh Griha (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple,
signature of the Parties and shall be remain in which is on the ground floor of the structure.
force for a period of 3 years. 7. The first floor of the temple structure will house
 Both G2G and B2B bilateral Cooperation in the the ‘Ram Darbar’. Plans are still not final for the
field of Information Technology will be second floor.
enhanced. 8. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase
 MoU envisages improved collaboration leading intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu
to employment opportunities in the field of IT. deities, gods, and goddesses.
Learn Along: 9. The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the
About Oman eastern side, which can be approached by
Capital: Muscat Currency: Omani rial ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar.
10. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the
Nagara Style Design, No Use of Iron or Steel Mandir – Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha
Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap.
 The consecration ceremony – or Pran Pratishtha
Near the Mandir is a historic Well (Sita koop),
– of Ram Lalla at the grand temple in Uttar
dating back to the ancient era.
Pradesh’s Ayodhya concluded with Prime Minister
11. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex,
Narendra Modi presiding over the ceremony. at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan
Here are some facts about the newly-built temple, Shiv has been restored, along with the
which will be open for devotees from January 23: installation of a statue of Jatayu.
12. The foundation of the Mandir has been
1. The Ram Mandir complex area spans 70 acres, constructed with a 14-meter-thick layer of
with the main temple area covering 2.7 acres and roller-compacted concrete (RCC), giving it the
a built-up area of about 57,400 square feet. appearance of artificial rock.
2. The design of the temple is rooted in the
traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is PM announces solar rooftop scheme for 1 crore
households
380 feet; width is 250 feet and height is 161 feet;
and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44
doors.  Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a
scheme to electrify one crore households with
3. The 3-storey structure of the Mandir is being
constructed using sandstone from Mirzapur
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
solar electricity after the consecration of the Ram Learn Along:

idol in Ayodhya. About IREDA
 The scheme, named 'Pradhanmantri Suryodaya  Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
Yojana,' aims to install rooftop solar on one Limited (IREDA) is a Mini Ratna (Category – I)
crore houses, reducing electricity bills and Government of India Enterprise under the
administrative control of Ministry of New and
making India self-reliant in energy.
Renewable Energy (MNRE).
 As of July 31, 2023, only 2.2 GW of rooftop  IREDA is a Public Limited Government Company
installations were reported in Indian homes, established as a Non-Banking Financial Institution
according to information presented to the Lok in 1987 engaged in promoting, developing and
Sabha. extending financial assistance for setting up projects
relating to new and renewable sources of energy
Central government launches 'Anuvadini' app to and energy efficiency/conservation with the motto:
provide study materials in regional languages “ENERGY FOR EVER”
 Chairman & Managing Director: Pradip Kumar Das
 The Union government plans to make study
materials for all school and higher education GAIL and ADNOC Gas ink long-term LNG
courses available in digital form in Indian contract
languages.
 An Artificial Intelligence-based 'Anuvadini' app  ADNOC Gas inked a significant 10-year
has been created for this purpose. agreement to supply 0.5 million metric tons per
 UGC, AICTE, and the Department of School year of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to GAIL (India)
Education are instructed to implement this for
Limited.
schools and universities in the state.
 This strategic move aligns with the broader
 The Ministry of Education has directed regulators vision of ADNOC Gas's parent company, Abu
and institutions to make study materials available Dhabi National Oil Company, which has intensified
in Indian languages within the next three years. its focus on the gas market, recognizing it as a
 The move aligns with the recommendations of transition fuel amid global efforts to reduce
the National Education Policy 2020 to promote planet-warming emissions.
multilingualism in education.  The heightened competition for LNG, especially
 The NEP 2020 emphasizes utilizing India's following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February
multilingual nature for socio-cultural, economic, 2022, has underscored the significance of
and educational development. securing long-term agreements in the evolving
energy landscape.
IREDA Releases Vigilance Journal 'Pahal'  This agreement reflects ADNOC Gas's
commitment to contributing to responsible
 Indian Renewable Energy Development energy practices and establishing enduring
Agency (IREDA), Government of India partnerships.
enterprise under the administrative control of  India, a key player in the global energy landscape,
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, has anticipates a substantial increase in gas
unveiled released 'Pahal'- the insightful house consumption, reaching over 500 million standard
journal of its Vigilance Department. cubic meters a day (mmscmd) by 2030, a
 The journal has been unveiled by Chairman & significant surge from the current 155 mmscmd.
Managing Director of IREDA, Pradip Kumar  This growth aligns with India's commitment to
Das on January 25, 2024. diversifying its energy mix and reducing
 The ceremony took place at the registered reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
office of IREDA in New Delhi. Learn Along:
About GAIL
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Founded: 1984 Headquarters: New  The components of its design include the under-
Delhi Chairman & MD: Sandeep Kumar Gupta construction Ram temple, the Saryu River
flowing in Ayodhya, and sculptures in and
Stamp Book on Ramayana around the temple.
 The book covers stamps issued by more than 20
 Recently, the Prime Minister of India released countries, including the US, New Zealand,
commemorative postage stamps on the Ram Singapore, Canada, Cambodia, and organisations
temple along with a book of stamps on the like the UN.
Ramayana from around the world.
Some Recent MoUs in News:
MoI/MoU Parties Date Objective Content Benefits/Impact
CDSCO,
Ministry of
Health and Framework for Convergence in
Family cooperation and regulatory practices,
Welfare, India, information increased Indian
and Ministry of 7th Cooperation in exchange in medicine exports,
MoI - Health, November, Medical Products medical product contributing to
Netherlands Netherlands 2023 Regulation regulation. Atmanirbhar Bharat.
CDSCO, Information Convergence in

Ministry of exchange and regulatory practices,
Health and cooperation in enhanced Indian
Family medical products, medicine exports,
Welfare, India, addressing supporting
and substandard and employment in the
MoU - Directorate 4th Cooperation in falsified medicines pharmaceutical
Dominican General, October, Medical Products in international sector, Atmanirbhar
Republic Dominican 2023 Regulation markets. Bharat.
Enhanced G2G and

Ministry of B2G bilateral
Electronics cooperation in Digital
and Exchange of Public Infrastructure
Information experiences and (DPI), leading to
Technology, digital technologies- improved
India, and Cooperation in based solutions for collaboration and
Ministry of 5th Digital Solutions digital employment
Information, December, for Digital transformation opportunities in the
MoU - Kenya Kenya 2023 Transformation initiatives. IT field.
CDSCO, Understanding Convergence in

7th Cooperation in
MoU - Ministry of regulatory aspects, regulatory practices,
November, Medical Products
Ecuador Health and 2023 Regulation increased increased Indian
Family cooperation in medicine exports,
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
MoI/MoU Parties Date Objective Content Benefits/Impact
Welfare, India, medical products supporting

and Agencia regulation, and employment in the
Nacional de better coordination pharmaceutical
Regulaction, in international fora. sector, Atmanirbhar
Ecuador Bharat.
Strengthening Bilateral cooperation

cooperation for to boost
semiconductor semiconductor
advancement, supply chains,
Government of Working resilience of supply leveraging
Republic of Arrangements on chains, and complementary
MoU - India and 21st Semiconductors collaboration in the strengths for
European European November, Ecosystems field of collaboration in
Commission Commission 2023 under TTC semiconductors. semiconductors.
Farsi to be one of India’s nine classical Scale for Digital Transformation on 19 January
languages 2024 in New Delhi.
 The MoU intends to promote digital
 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced transformation (viz. INDIA STACK) through
that the Government of India has decided to Capacity Building programs, exchange of best
include Farsi (Persian) as one of the nine practices and other collaborative activities to
classical languages in India under the New mutually benefit the digital ecosystems of both
Education Policy. countries.
 This recognition reflects a commitment to  India will collaborate with Cuba by building upon
fostering greater understanding and development partnership on digital
appreciation of Farsi’s rich heritage within the transformation leading to a smooth adoption of
Indian educational framework. Digital Public Infrastructure in Cuba.
 Tamil was the first language in India to be Learn Along:
accorded classical language status in 2004. About Cuba
Capital: Havana Currency: Cuban
 Sanskrit, Kannada, Malayalam and Odia are the
peso (CUP)
other languages that have been declared classical
languages in India by the central government.
India Signed Agreement for Lithium Exploration
& Mining Project in Argentina
Memorandum of Understanding signed between
India and Cuba on Cooperation in the field of  Ministry of Mines, Government of India has
Sharing Successful Digital Solutions achieved a significant milestone with the signing of
an agreement between Khanij Bidesh India
 An MoU has been signed between Ministry of Limited (KABIL) and the state-owned enterprise
Electronics and Information Technology of the
of Catamarca province of Argentina
Republic Of India and the Ministry of
CATAMARCA MINERA Y ENERGÉTICA
Communications of the Republic of Cuba on
SOCIEDAD DEL ESTADO (CAMYEN SE) at
Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful
Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Catamarca, Argentina on 15th January, 2024.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 This is the first ever lithium exploration and  This strategic collaboration aims to aggregate
mining project by a Government Company of employment opportunities for Divyangjans
India. through the innovative PM-DAKSH-DEPWD digital
 With this Agreement, KABIL has obtained portal.
Exploration and Exclusivity Right for 5 blocksto  This MoU marks a pivotal step in expanding
evaluate, prospect and explore and subsequent to the Department's outreach, fostering connections
existence/discovery of lithium mineral, exploitation with HR professionals nationwide.
right for commercial production.  The objective is to amplify efforts in
 Argentina is the part of “Lithium Triangle” along facilitating meaningful employment
with Chile and Bolivia with more than half of opportunities for Divyangjans, fostering a more
world’s total lithium resources and having the inclusive and diverse workforce.
distinction of having 2nd largest lithium resources,
3rd largest lithium reserves and 4th largest Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh launches the
production in world. MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile Application for the
Revised Fund Flow Procedure under MPLAD
NHAI Takes ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ Initiative Scheme
to Enhance National Highway Experience
 The Minister of State (Independent Charge) of
 NHAI has initiated 'One Vehicle, One FASTag' to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
enhance efficiency in Electronic Toll Collection. Implementation (MoSPI) Rao Inderjit Singh
 The initiative aims to discourage using a single launched the MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile
FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking multiple Application for revised fund flow procedure under
FASTags to one vehicle. MPLAD Scheme at Khurshid Lal Bhawan, New
 NHAI encourages FASTag users to complete Delhi.
the 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) process for their  The objective of MPLAD Scheme is to enable the
latest FASTag by updating it as per RBI guidelines. Members of Parliament (MPs) to recommend
 The initiative aims to improve toll operations' works of developmental nature with emphasis on
efficiency and ensure seamless and comfortable the creation of durable community assets based on
journeys for National Highway users. the locally felt needs.
Learn Along:  The revised set of guidelines aims to broaden
About NHAI the scope of the Scheme so as to enable the
 The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) MPs to recommend the developmental works as
was constituted by an Act of Parliament, the National per the changing needs of the community; with an
Highways Authority of India Act, 1988. emphasis on improving the functioning,
 It is responsible for the development, maintenance implementation and monitoring of the MPLAD
and management of National Highways entrusted to scheme.
it and/or matters connected or incidental thereto.  The launching of e-SAKSHI mobile application
for Members of Parliament (MPs) under the
DEPWD and NHRDN Join Forces to Boost
MPLAD scheme will bring forth a myriad of
Employment for Divyangjans
benefits, revolutionizing the way they engage with
and manage development projects in their
 The Department of Empowerment of Persons
constituencies.
with Disabilities (DEPWD) and the National
 The mobile app would offer convenience and
Human Resources Development Network
accessibility, allowing MPs to propose, track,
(NHRDN) have inked a Memorandum of
and oversee the projects at their fingertips.
Understanding on the closing day of the Learn Along:
International Purple Fest in Goa.
About MPLAD

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The MPLAD scheme was formulated in 1993 to enable on defense collaboration in Research and
Members of Parliament (MPs) to recommend Development.
development works in their constituencies with emphasis  The agreements were signed during bilateral
on the creation of durable community assets based on the
talks between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
locally felt need.
and his British counterpart Grant Shapps in
 Initially, the Scheme was under the control of the London.
Ministry of Rural Development and Planning.
 The LoA on R&D was signed between India’s
 In October, 1994, the scheme was transferred to the
Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation. DRDO and the U.K.’s DSTL, aiming to boost
 According to the ‘Guidelines on Members of Parliament people-to-people exchanges and defense
Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS)’ published research collaboration.
by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme  This marks the first visit by an Indian Defence
Implementation in June 2016, the MPLAD funds can Minister to the U.K. in over two decades.
also be used for implementation of the schemes such as
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Accessible India Campaign
 The ministers discussed defense, security, and
(Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan), conservation of water through cooperation matters, emphasizing the
rain water harvesting and Sansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana, enhancement of defense industrial collaboration.
etc. Learn Along:
About U.K.
Palaeolithic tool discovery adds to Prime minister: Rishi Sunak Capital: London
understanding of human settlements in
Telangana Coal India Ltd Enters into MoU with National
Skill Development Corporation to set up Multi
 Recent floods in Telangana's Mulugu district led to Skill Development Institutes under each
the discovery of Paleolithic quartzite tools. Subsidiary
 The tools, exposed as a dried-up stream bed was
 Coal India Limited (CIL) has entered into a MoU
revealed after the flood, were found between
Gurrevula and Bhupatipuram villages in Mulugu with National Skill Development Corporation
district. (NSDC) for "Setting up of Multi Skill
 Researcher Eleswaram Janardanachari Development Institutes (MSDIs)”.
discovered a stone axe measuring 15.5cm in  One MSDI will be set up in each subsidiary with
length, 11cm in width, and 5.5cm in thickness. CCL, BCCL, MCL, NCL & SECL covered in the first
phase, and the remaining subsidiaries in the
 The stone axe belongs to the Lower Paleolithic
second phase.
period, dating back approximately 30 lakh years
ago.  The existing infrastructure available at CIL
subsidiaries will be developed as MSDIs.
 The Lower Paleolithic period, also known as the
Old Stone Age, Early Stone Age, or Paleolithic  The project will cover one-time capex for
Age, dates back to about 33 lakh years BC and repurposing of existing infrastructure as MSDIs and
lasted for 10,000 years. Recurring & Project Monitoring Unit (PMU)
 Paleolithic hunter-gatherers used heavy quartzite expenses per year.
tools, similar to those discovered, for cutting wood  The project will help the youth of command
and hunting animals for food. areas in getting market-oriented skill training
and entering into formal sector
India, U.K. ink 2 deals during Rajnath’s visit employment/entrepreneurship.
Learn Along:
About NSDC
 India and the U.K. signed a MoU for a bilateral
 National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is a
international cadet exchange program and a LoA
not-for-profit public limited company incorporated

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
on July 31, 2008 under section 25 of the Companies with validity period depending on the contract,
Act, 1956 (corresponding to section 8 of the Companies priority in supplies, interest-free credit facility &
Act, 2013). turnover discount [TOD].
 NSDC was set up by Ministry of Finance as Public  MoU between ICG and SAIL reflects a shared and
Private Partnership (PPP) model.
collective determination to enhance self-reliance
 The Government of India through Ministry of Skill and Atmanirbharta in defence sector aligning with
Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) holds 49% of
the clarion issued by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
the share capital of NSDC, while the private sector has
Learn Along:
the balance 51% of the share capital.
About SAIL
The company, incorporated on January 24, 1973 with
Work4Food: Algorithm to Ensure Minimum an authorized capital of Rs. 2000 crore
Wages for Food Delivery Workers Chairman: Amarendu Prakash Headquarters:
New Delhi
 Researchers at the prestigious Indian Institute
of Technology (IIT) Delhi have developed an ‘ANUBHAV Awards Scheme, 2024’
innovative new system called Work4Food that
could guarantee fair minimum incomes for food  On the directions of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of
delivery personnel in India’s booming app-based India, DOPPW had launched an on-line platform
food ordering industry. entitled ‘Anubhav Portal’ in March 2015 for sharing
 The algorithmic solution was presented at an experiences of retiring/retired Central Government
international conference in 2022 and aims to employees while working with the Government.
address concerns over the gig-economy jobs in  It is envisaged that this culture of leaving notes
meal delivery lacking wage protections or benefits. by retirees will become the foundation stone of
 Work4Food system utilizes optimization good governance and administrative reforms in
algorithms and demand forecasting to ensure future.
every delivery agent meets localized minimum  Government has notified the ANUBHAV Awards
income thresholds based on number of orders Scheme 2024.
assigned.
 To participate in the scheme, retiring Central
Government employees/pensioners are required
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU)
to submit their Anubhav write ups, 8 months prior
BETWEEN INDIAN COAST GUARD AND STEEL to retirement and up to 1 year after their
AUTHORITY OF INDIA LTD retirement.
 To encourage the broader participation in the
 The Indian Coast Guard and Steel Authority of
Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2024, the DOPPW has
India Ltd (a Maharatna CPSE) took a significant step undertaken an Outreach Campaign to reach out
aimed at enhancing the Indigenous Content (IC) in to every pensioner to submit his ANUBHAV
shipbuilding through a Memorandum of experience.
Understanding (MoU) for supply of indigenous
marine grade steel. India’s oldest living city found in Vadnagar:
 The Memorandum of Understanding multi-institution study
encompasses the requirement of marine grade
steel for ICG in terms of quality, grades and  Joint study by five institutions finds evidence of
dimensions along with the designated steel plants cultural continuity in Vadnagar, Gujarat after the
that would manufacture the product. collapse of the Harappan civilization.
 Through this MoU, SAIL will facilitate supply of
indigenous steel to Indian shipyards, for ICG
Ships and provide them benefits such as firm pricing
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Settlement in Vadnagar dates back to 800 BCE, intercooperation within the cooperative entities
contemporary to late-Vedic/pre-Buddhist at Diodar in Banaskantha district of Gujarat.
Mahajanapadas.  The project aims to persuade cooperative
 Study indicates the rise and fall of different entities to have their bank account with the
kingdoms over a 3,000-year period driven by cooperative banks only.
changes in climate like rainfall or droughts.  Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit
 The excavation led by ASI, funded by Directorate Shah will also inaugurate and lay the foundation
of Archaeology and Museums (Government of stone of various development projects of a
cooperative sector on the occasion.
Gujarat).
Learn Along:  The pilot project was first implemented by
About Gujarat
Gujarat State Cooperative Bank in Banaskantha
Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel Governor: and Panchmahal district to achieve the vision of
Acharya Devvrat Capital: Gandhinagar Sahakar se Samruddhi.
 During the programme, several new projects of
Defence minister approves insurance scheme Banas dairy will also be launched at the hands of
for BRO workers the Union minister. These include Banas Bovine
Breeding and Research Centre at Banaskantha,
 India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, has a state-of-the-art atta plant, Banas organic
approved an insurance cover proposal for fertilizer products, Amul organics, and
casual workers employed by the Border Roads hydrogen production trial from cow dung.
Organisation (BRO) for infrastructure projects in  Banas Dairy will also provide a zero-interest
remote areas. credit card to cattle breeders from today in the
 The scheme provides INR 10 lakh ($13,500) to presence of Union Minister Amit Shah.
families of casual paid laborers in case of death, Learn Along:
aiming to offer social security and welfare, About Gujarat
recognizing the risks these workers face in Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel Governor:
hazardous terrains. Acharya Devvrat Capital: Gandhinagar
 BRO, responsible for border infrastructure in
regions like Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and PM Modi to release first installment of Pradhan
Sikkim, employs up to one lakh casual workers Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin under PM-
for projects including roads, bridges, tunnels, JANMAN scheme
airfields, and helipads.
 The insurance initiative is part of welfare  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release the
measures for these workers, supplementing first installment to one lakh beneficiaries of
existing provisions like portable cabins, shelters, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin under the
bio toilets, winter clothing, and healthcare facilities. Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha
 India's infrastructure development in border Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) through video
areas, in response to China's initiatives, supports conferencing.
military deterrence, crucial for readiness in  The PM-JANMAN was launched for the socio-
challenging terrains. economic welfare of Particularly Vulnerable
Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in November.
Union Minister Amit Shah to launch pilot
 The PM-JANMAN, with a budget of around 24,000
project to strengthen inter-cooperation within
crore rupees, focuses on 11 critical
the cooperative entities
interventions through nine Ministries.
 Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit  It is aimed at improving the socio-economic
Shah will launch a pilot project to strengthen conditions of the PVTGs by saturating PVTG

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
households and habitations with basic facilities MoU signed between QCI and KVIC in
including safe housing, clean drinking water, Ahmedabad,Gujarat
improved access to education, health and nutrition,
electricity, road and telecom connectivity, and  Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
sustainable livelihood opportunities. and Quality Council of India (QCI) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to
Sagar Parikrama (Phase X) event
enhance the quality of Khadi products, empower
artisans and offer quality products under the 'Made
 Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry in India' banner for Khadi at Kochrab Ashram in
and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, and Minister of
Ahmedabad.
State Dr. L Murugan are participating in Sagar
Parikrama (Phase X) from January 1 to January 6,  The collaboration between the two organizations is
aimed at creating ‘World Class Khadi Products’.
2024, in Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry.
 The ministers will distribute Kisan Credit Cards  As per the MoU, the Quality Council of India will
(KCC) to beneficiaries, including fishermen, aqua assist KVIC in various activities including
farmers, and other stakeholders, promoting training to enhance the quality of Khadi and
progressive practices through schemes like Village Industries products, improve their
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana productivity and marketability both domestically and
(PMMSY). internationally.
 The initiative focuses on disseminating best  Along with this, it will support KVIC by
practices, initiatives, and benefits of PMMSY, empowering Khadi artisans and promoting
KCC, and other schemes among fishermen, fish Khadi products through various mediums.
farmers, and young fisheries entrepreneurs. Learn Along:
 The Sagar Parikrama Yatra involves interactions About KVIC
with fishermen, fish farmers, and stakeholders,  The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is
accompanied by campaigns on KCC and other a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament.
activities in coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and
 In April 1957, it took over the work of former All India
Puducherry.
Khadi and Village Industries Board.
 The ongoing Phase-X covers the remaining
 Headquarters: Mumbai Chairman: Manoj
coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, including Kumar
Nellore, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, West About QCI
Godavari, Konaseema, Kakinada, Visakhapatnam,
 Quality Council of India (QCI) was established as a
Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, and Yanam (Union
National body for Accreditation on recommendations of
Territory of Puducherry). Expert Mission of EU after consultations in Inter-ministerial
Learn Along:
Task Force, Committee of Secretaries and Group of
 Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana Ministers through a Cabinet decision in 1996.
(PMMSY), the government plans to invest Rs. 2300 Crore
 Chairperson: Jaxay Shah
in the fisheries sector in Andhra Pradesh for five years,
supporting projects like fish landing centers, fishing
harbors, cold storages, and more. Amit Shah launches portal for tur dal
 Sagar Parikrama is a government initiative aiming to procurement portal
address the issues of fishermen and stakeholders,
promoting economic upliftment through fisheries schemes  Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a
like PMMSY and KCC. portal for tur dal procurement by National
 The initiative facilitates direct interactions between Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of
fishermen and government officials, contributing to the India Ltd. (NAFED) and National Cooperative
economic well-being of coastal communities. Consumers' Federation of India Limited (NCCF).
 The Sagar Parikrama is seen as a transformative
 The initiative aims to strengthen farmers'
effort to enhance the quality of life for fishermen and
prosperity, enhance self-reliance in pulse
fish farmers through various fisheries programs.
production, and promote nutrition campaigns.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The portal integrates Aadhaar verification,  The 1,600 km India-Myanmar boundary will be
unique farmer IDs, land records, and Aadhaar- fully sealed over 4.5 years using advanced
based payments, ensuring transparency and direct surveillance systems to enhance security.
bank transfers.
 The termination of FMR, despite historical
 Efforts are underway to integrate the portal with
community exchange, aligns with efforts to
warehousing agencies and encourage warehousing
in the manage the border more securely in light of
 The 'Bharat Dal' concept has been introduced to geopolitical realities.
promote pulses.
 The Minister urged farmers to contribute to ‘SMART 2.0’ launched for Ayurveda Teaching
ethanol production, aiming for 20 percent Professionals
ethanol blending with petrol, reducing imports and
benefitting farmers directly.  The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic
Learn Along:
Sciences (CCRAS) along with National
About National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing
Federation of India Ltd Commission for Indian System of Medicine
 Established : 2nd October 1958 (NCISM) has launched 'SMART 2.0' (Scope for
Chairman: Dr. Bijender Singh Mainstreaming Ayurveda Research among
Teaching professionals) program to promote robust
10th century Kadamba inscription written in clinical studies in priority areas of Ayurveda with
Kannada and Sanskrit found in Goa Ayurveda academic institutions/hospitals across
the country through mutual collaboration.
 10th-century inscription discovered in Mahadeva  The study aims at safety, tolerability and
temple at Cacoda, southern Goa. adherence to Ayurveda formulations in the
 Inscription in Kannada and Sanskrit, belonging to priority research areas of Bal Kasa, Malnutrition,
the Kadamba period, reveals historical events. Insufficient lactation, Abnormal Uterine Bleeding,
 T. Murugeshi, retired associate professor, studied Osteoporosis in post-menopausal women and
the inscription, noting it's engraved in Kannada and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) II.
Nagari characters.  The objective of ‘SMART 2.0’ is to generate a
 The inscription records Talara Nevayya's son, tangible evidence to demonstrate efficacy and
Gundayya, fulfilling his father's desire to capture safety of Ayurveda interventions using
Goa's gopura, resulting in his death. interdisciplinary research methods and translating
 Rajendra Kerkar, an environmentalist, it into public health care.
discovered the inscription and informed Mr.  Under the ‘SMART 1.0’, around 10 diseases
Murugeshi. were covered with the active participation of
teaching professionals from 38 colleges.
India to End Free Movement Regime Permitting Learn Along:
Border Crossing Into Myanmar About CCRAS
 CCRAS is an apex organization for the formulation,
 The Indian government will terminate the Free co-ordination, development and promotion of
Movement Regime (FMR) along the India-Myanmar research on scientific lines in Ayurveda, functioning
under the Ministry of Ayush.
border, which allowed visa-free entry up to 16
kilometers.
PM Narendra Modi To Inaugurate Abu Dhabi's
 FMR, in place since 2018, aimed to strengthen First Hindu Temple On February 14
cultural ties but faced misuse by insurgent groups
for attacks and smuggling activities.
 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will
inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi,

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
the first Hindu temple in the emirate, which will be  It is responsible for the development, maintenance
open to the public next year. and management of National Highways entrusted to
 According to BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, PM it and/or matters connected or incidental thereto.
Modi has accepted the invitation extended by Swami About NRSC
Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas for  National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) at
the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Hyderabad is responsible for remote sensing satellite
Abu Dhabi on February 14, 2024. data acquisition and processing, data dissemination,
aerial remote sensing and decision support for disaster
 The under-construction BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu management.
Dhabi, located at Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba, is
 NRSC has a data reception station at Shadnagar
the Middle East's first traditional Hindu temple. near Hyderabad for acquiring data from Indian remote
 It was announced by the UAE government in sensing satellites as well as others.
August 2015, during Prime Minister Modi's first
official visit to the country. India, Pakistan exchange list of nuclear
Learn Along: installations and facilities
About UAE
Capital: Abu Dhabi Currency: UAE
 India and Pakistan exchanged the list of
dirham
nuclear installations and facilities, covered
under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack
NHAI signs MoU with NRSC for Development
against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between
and Reporting of “Green Cover Index” for
the two countries.
National Highways of India
 The Agreement was signed in 1988.
 NHAI signs a three-year MoU with NRSC (under  India and Pakistan are required to inform each
other of the nuclear installations and facilities
ISRO) to develop a "Green Cover Index" for
to be covered under the Agreement on the first of
National Highways. January of every calendar year.
 Green Highways Policy, initiated in 2015,  This is the 33rd consecutive exchange of such
prioritizes greening highway corridors. lists between the two countries.
 Currently, plantations monitored through site Learn Along:
visits; new approach uses satellite imagery for About Pakistan
comprehensive estimation. Capital: Islamabad Currency:
Pakistani rupee
 NRSC to use high-resolution satellite imagery
for pan-India Green Cover Index, enhancing data Prime Minister to launch multi development
collection and cost-effectiveness. projects worth over Rs 20, 000 cr in
 The initiative aims to provide a macro-level Tiruchirappali
estimate of greenness along National Highways,
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the 38th
allowing targeted interventions.
Convocation Ceremony of Bharathidasan
 NRSC, headquartered in Hyderabad, responsible University in Tiruchirappalli.
for ground stations, data products, and remote  He inaugurates, dedicates, and lays the
sensing applications. foundation stone for development projects worth
Learn Along: over ₹20,000 crore.
About NHAI  The projects span aviation, rail, road, oil and
 The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) gas, shipping, and higher education sectors.
was constituted by an Act of Parliament, the National
 In Tiruchirappalli, he inaugurates the new terminal
Highways Authority of India Act, 1988.
building at Tiruchirappalli International Airport built at
a cost of over ₹1,100 crore.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The Prime Minister inaugurates multiple rail and

infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu, including Cabinet approves signing of a Memorandum of
national highway projects and four-laning roads. Understanding (MoU) between India and United
Learn Along: States for International Development/India
About Tamil Nadu (USAID/India)
Chief minister: M. K. Stalin Governor: R. N.
Ravi Capital: Chennai
 A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed
between India and United States for
Ola Electric first e-scooter company to get PLI International Development/India (USAID/India)
nod on June 14, 2023.
 It is aimed at supporting Indian Railways in
 Ola Electric is certified by the Ministry of Heavy achieving Mission Net Zero Carbon Emission by
Industries to receive subsidies under the PLI 2030.
scheme.  It provides a platform for interaction and
 It becomes the first e2W (electric two-wheeler) knowledge sharing in the railway sector.
company to be certified under the scheme.  Focus areas include utility modernization,
 Other applicants include Hero MotoCorp, TVS advanced energy solutions, private sector
Motor Company, and Bajaj Auto. participation, training, and workshops on
 The certification was granted on December 27, renewable energy and energy efficiency.
and the process took four months.  The collaboration includes long-term energy
 The PLI scheme aims to boost domestic planning, development of an Energy Efficiency
manufacturing, making products more Policy, clean energy procurement planning,
competitively priced and reducing import addressing regulatory barriers, bid design for
dependency. large-scale renewable procurement, and promoting
e-mobility.
Cabinet gives nod to ‘Prithvi’ programme for Learn Along:
About USA
earth observation Capital: Washington, D.C. Currency: U.S.
dollar President: Joe Biden
 Union Cabinet clears ₹4,797-crore 'Prithvi'
program to subsume five existing schemes of the MoU signed between Indian Railways and CII to
Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). promote and facilitate green initiatives
 The program aims to improve long-term
observations of the atmosphere, ocean,  Indian Railways signs MoU with Confederation
geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth, track of Indian Industry (CII) to reduce energy and water
planet changes, and develop models for weather, consumption, lowering GHG emissions.
ocean, and climate hazards.  Renewal of MoU for the third consecutive term,
 Objectives include exploring polar and high-seas signed on January 4, 2024, by Shri. Shailendra
regions, developing technology for sustainable Singh (IR) and Smt. Seema Arora (CII).
harnessing of oceanic resources, and translating  Indian Railways aims for "Net Zero Carbon
earth system science knowledge into societal,
Emission" by 2030, taking responsibility for
environmental, and economic benefits.
environmental protection.
 The Cabinet also approves an agreement
between ISRO and the Mauritius Research and  CII actively partners with IR since July 2016, with
Innovation Council to jointly develop a small previous MoUs signed in 2016 and 2019.
satellite at an estimated cost of ₹20 crore in 15 Learn Along:
months. About CII

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
President: Mr. R Dinesh Founded: 1895

Headquarters: New Delhi, India Indore, Bhopal, Udaipur nominated for
International Wetland city tag
India signs Bilateral Haj Agreement 2024 with
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)  India has nominated Indore, Bhopal and Udaipur
for the Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) scheme
 Union Minister for Women and Child under the Ramsar Convention, which helps cities
Development and Minority Affairs Smt. Smriti gain international recognition for their efforts to
protect their natural or human-made wetlands.
Zubin Irani accompanied by Shri. V. Muraleedharan,
 These are the first three Indian cities nominated
Minister of State for External Affairs and
for WCA based on the proposals received from
Parliamentary Affairs signed the Bilateral Haj
state wetlands authorities in collaboration with
Agreement 2024 with H.E. Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-
municipal corporations.
Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Kingdom of
 The wetlands situated in and around these cities
Saudi Arabia (KSA) at Jeddah, KSA.
provide a plethora of benefits to their citizens in
 A total quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India has terms of flood regulation, livelihood
been finalised for Haj 2024 with 1,40,020 seats
opportunities, and recreational and cultural
being reserved for pilgrims to proceed through Haj
values.
Committee of India which will greatly benefit the
Learn Along:
common first time pilgrims intending to undertake the
About Ramsar Convention
Haj pilgrimage in 2024 whereas 35,005 pilgrims
 The Ramsar Convention is the intergovernmental
would be permitted to proceed through Haj Group
treaty that provides the framework for the
Operators. conservation and wise use of wetlands and their
 During the meeting with the Minister of Hajj and resources.
Umrah, KSA, the digital initiatives of the  The Convention was adopted in the Iranian city of
Government of India in facilitating and promoting Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975. Since
ease and convenience for the Indian Haj pilgrims then, almost 90% of UN member states have become
by providing last mile information to the pilgrims were “Contracting Parties” and committed to the Convention’s
greatly appreciated by the KSA side and KSA offered three pillars:
to extend all possible help in this regard. 1. Work towards the wise use of all their wetlands
Learn Along: 2. Designate suitable wetlands for the list of
About Saudi Arabia Wetlands International Importance and ensure their
Capital: Riyadh Currency: Saudi effective management
riyal 3. Cooperate internationally on transboundary
wetlands, shared wetland systems and shared species
INTERNATIONAL
Kyrgyzstan has officially declared the snow  Kyrgyzstan played a leading role in snow
leopard as its national symbol leopard conservation, hosting the Global Snow
Leopard Forum in 2013.
 Kyrgyzstan declared snow leopard as its Learn Along:
national symbol. About Kyrgyzstan
 President Sadyr Zhaparov highlights the Capital: Bishkek Currency: Kyrgyzstani
ecological importance of snow leopards in a som
signed decree.
 Snow leopards signify natural wealth, cultural First 2024 Cyclone Hits Madagascar
prosperity, and the stability of the mountain
ecosystem.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Tropical Cyclone Alvaro made landfall in About Nepal

southwest Madagascar on January 1st 2024, Capital: Kathmandu Currency:
becoming the first cyclone to impact the island Nepalese rupee
nation in the ongoing 2023-2024 cyclone
season for the southwest Indian Ocean region BRICS Welcomes Five New Members,
spanning late October to May. Signaling Global Shift
 Prone to violent storms, Madagascar was
struck by Cyclone Cheneso in January 2023  The upcoming BRICS summit in Russia this
hitting the northeast and impacting over October is set to undergo a significant
90,000 residents. transformation as it expands its membership
 Last February, Cyclone Freddy made landfall to include five new nations alongside the
on the southeast coast leading to 17 fatalities original founding five – Brazil, Russia, India,
and 19,000 displacements. China, and South Africa.
Learn Along:  This expansion, featuring Egypt, Ethiopia,
About International Collaboration to Boost Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab
Resilience
Emirates, signifies a notable shift in the global
 An intergovernmental project ‘REPRESA’ launched
landscape, characterized by increasing
across southern African countries in 2023 aims to
enhance regional resilience through improved multipolarity and assertive middle powers
cyclone readiness among communities frequently challenging the established Western-led order.
hit by storms. Learn Along:
 The initiative led by universities from the UK, About BRICS
Mozambique and South Africa involves working  BRICS is an intergovernmental organization
with vulnerable Madagascar communities to build comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa,
local capabilities around flooding alerts and action. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United
About Madagascar Arab Emirates.
Capital: Antananarivo Currency: Ariary
 It was formed in 2010 by the addition of South Africa
to its predecessor called BRIC named after first
India to import 10,000 MW of hydroelectricity letter of founding countries Brazil, Russia, India, and
from Nepal over 10 years China.
 Notably, Argentina, under its new President Javier
 Nepal and India signed a power trade Milei, has decided to withdraw from its planned
agreement for Kathmandu to export 10,000 entry into the expanding BRICS club of nations.
MW of hydroelectricity to India over the next 10  The last expansion of the BRICS took place in
years. 2010 when South Africa joined, adding an "S" to the
 Nepal's rivers have the potential for 42,000 MW acronym a year after the bloc's inception.
electricity, but current production is below
3,000 MW due to technical and financial Nobel peace winner Muhammad Yunus
constraints. convicted in Bangladesh labour law case
 India is investing billions in infrastructure,
including hydropower plants, to strengthen  Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was
influence in the region, where China is also convicted of violating Bangladesh's labor
active. laws in a case criticized as politically
motivated.
 Nepal aims to export excess energy to India
to narrow its trade deficit with its southern  Muhammad Yunus, credited with poverty
neighbor. alleviation through microfinance, faced
Learn Along:
accusations from Prime Minister Sheikh

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Hasina, who accused him of exploiting the  During the meeting, both sides held
poor. discussions on a wide range of issues.
 The 83-year-old Yunus, a 2006 Nobel Peace These includes bilateral cooperation
Prize winner, and three colleagues were towards identifying steps to enhance the
convicted for not creating a workers' welfare partnership and expediting the
fund in Grameen Telecom. implementation of ongoing development
 The labor court in Dhaka sentenced them to cooperation projects, finding mutually
six months' simple imprisonment, and they workable solutions to enable the
continued operation of Indian aviation
were granted bail pending appeals.
platforms that provide humanitarian and
medvac services (Medical evacuation
Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II to abdicate
transportation) to the people of Maldives.
after 52 years on throne
Learn Along:
About Maldives
 Denmark's Queen Margrethe II announced her
President: Mohamed Muizzu Capital: Malé
abdication after 52 years, passing the throne
to her son, Crown Prince Frederik.
China launches new satellite shaped like a
 The abdication is set for January 14,
lotus for observation of violent cosmic
coinciding with the anniversary of Queen phenomena
Margrethe's own accession to the throne.
Learn Along:  China sent a new astronomical satellite
About Denmark shaped like a lotus into space to observe
Capital: Copenhagen Currency: Danish mysterious transient phenomena in the universe
krone that flicker like fireworks.
 The satellite named Einstein Probe (EP), which
IIT Madras to open new campus at Kandy in
uses new X-ray detection technology inspired by
Sri Lanka
the functioning of a lobster eye, was launched
by a Long March-2C carrier rocket.
 A new campus of IIT Madras would be started
in Kandy in Sri Lanka.  Weighing about 1.45 tonnes and as large as a
 The proposal was part of the Budget 2024 full-size SUV, the satellite is shaped like a lotus
presented by Sri Lanka President Ranil in full bloom and features 12 petals and two
Wickremasinghe in his capacity as Finance stamens, state-run Xinhua news agency
Minister. reported.
Learn Along:  The 12 “petals” are 12 modules consisting of
About Sri Lanka wide-field X-ray telescopes (WXT), while the
Capitals: Colombo, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte
two “stamens” consist of two modules of follow-
Currency: Sri Lankan rupee
up X-ray telescopes (FXT).
President: Ranil Wickremesinghe
Learn Along:
Prime Minister: Dinesh Gunawardena
About China
Capital: Beijing Currency: Renminbi
First meeting of India-Maldives high level core
group held in Male Tshering Tobgay to become Bhutan PM for
second time as poll body confirms results
 The first meeting of the India-Maldives high-
level core group was held in Male on 14 Jan
2024.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Tshering Tobgay has been elected as  GFAI's primary objective is to promote

Bhutan's Prime Minister for the second time, sustainable energy growth in India by
securing nearly two-thirds of seats in the election. fostering collaboration among businesses,
 The election highlighted serious economic government entities, research institutions, and
challenges, questioning Bhutan's longstanding financial stakeholders from both Indian and
policy of prioritizing "Gross National Happiness" Danish sectors.
over growth.  The alliance aligns with the Green Strategic
Learn Along: Partnership signed in 2020 between India and
About Bhutan Denmark to meet ambitious climate targets.
Capital: Thimphu Currency: Ngultrum  GFAI aims to facilitate knowledge sharing,
(BTN) business opportunities, and partnerships
between Indian and Danish actors in the green
US designates Pakistan, China ,North Korea as fuels sector.
'Countries of Particular Concern'  The initiative coincides with India's push
towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2070,
 The U.S. designates China, North Korea, while Denmark tops the global Climate
Pakistan, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Nicaragua, Performance Ranking 2024 and aims for carbon
Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, neutrality by 2050.
Turkmenistan, and Myanmar as 'Countries of Learn Along:
Particular Concern' for severe violations of About Denmark
religious freedom. Capital: Copenhagen Currency:
Danish krone
 US Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlights
the enduring commitment to advancing
International Purple Fest 2024
freedom of religion, dating back to the
International Religious Freedom Act in 1998.
 International Purple Fest – Goa 2024, set to
 Algeria, Azerbaijan, Central African Republic,
unfold its vibrant celebration of inclusivity and
Comoros, and Vietnam designated as 'Special
Watch List countries' for severe violations of empowerment until January 13.
religious freedom.  Organized by the State Commissioner’s
 Terrorist groups al-Shabab, Boko Haram, Office for Persons with Disabilities, in
collaboration with the Directorate of Social
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Houthis, ISIS-Sahel,
Welfare, Government of Goa, and supported
ISIS-West Africa, Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal- by the Department of Empowerment of Persons
Muslimin, and the Taliban labeled as 'Entities with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and
of Particular Concern.' Empowerment, Government of India.
Learn Along:  The fest aims to showcase the tale”ts of
About USA
Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) through
Capital: Washington D.C. President: Joe Biden
Currency: UD Doller
engaging performances in music, dance, and
entertainment during the Opening Ceremony.
Denmark launches Green Fuels Alliance India
Switzerland to host Ukraine peace summit
 The Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI) has

 Switzerland agreed to host a global peace
been initiated by the Danish Embassy and the
summit on Ukraine at the request of Ukrainian
Consulate General of Denmark in India to
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
advance the green fuels sector, including
green hydrogen, through innovation,  Neutral Switzerland has previously acted as
a broker to resolve conflicts and could now
collaboration, and partnerships.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
help find a resolution for the war that began Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh Museum, and two
when Russia sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. Museums in Alexandria.
24, 2022.  Total capacity of 325 kW with photovoltaic
Learn Along: systems generating 520 MW.hr/year,
About Switzerland estimated to reduce 295 tons/year of carbon
Capital : Bern Currency: Swiss franc
dioxide equivalent emissions.
 The initiative is part of the Egypt PV flagship
Launch of “Alliance for Global Good- Gender project, supported by the Global Environment
Equity and Equality” by India at World Facility and later funded by the European
Economic Forum Union through the UNDP project.
 At the World Economic Forum’s annual UNDP and EU award grants to community-based
meeting at Davos, Switzerland held from 15-19 organizations combating climate change,
January 2024, India participated in the spirit of deforestation and food insecurity in Enga
“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, ready to shape a Province
common future marked by global cooperation,
 Grants totaling over US$420,000
aligning with the overarching WEF theme for the
(approximately 1.6 million PGK) handed over to
year, 'Rebuilding Trust'.
combat deforestation, improve food and
 One of the key takeaways from the Forum meeting
nutrition security, and adapt to climate change
was the announcement of the launch of a
“Global Good Alliance for Gender Equity and in Enga Province.
 UNDP and EU aim to empower communities
Equality” with the support and endorsement by
affected by climate change for sustainable
WEF and Government of India.
development in Papua New Guinea.
 The primary and stated objective of this new
 The grants are part of the 'Strengthening
Alliance is to bring together global best
Integrated Sustainable Land Management'
practices, knowledge sharing and investments in
project, marking the second time such support
the identified areas of women’s health, education,
has been provided to community-based
and enterprise.
organizations in Enga Province.
 The Alliance will be taking forward the Learn Along:
commitments of the G20 leaders for the benefit About UNDP
of the larger global community as a follow up to the Founded: 22 November 1965, United States
activities of the Engagement Group and initiatives Headquarters: New York, United States
under the G20 framework, inter alia, the Business
20, Women 20 and G20 EMPOWER. South Korea passes Bill to ban production
and sale of dog meat
Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities represented
by the SCA, the IMC and UNDP Egypt inaugurate
 The South Korean parliament recently passed
solar power stations at world heritage sites and
a Bill banning the production and sale of dog
museums
meat for animal welfare.
 Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities  It aims to ban the sale, distribution, butchery,
inaugurates solar power stations at five and breeding of dogs for their meat by 2027.
Egyptian world heritage sites and museums.  Its provisions will be implemented in 2027,
 Solar power stations strategically located at following a three-year grace period for dog farm
Giza Plateau’s Visitor Center, Manial Palace in owners, meat restaurants, and other workers in
the trade to close their businesses or find
alternative sources of employment.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Learn Along: involve Washington, Manila’s long-time treaty

About South Korea ally.
Capital: Seoul Currency: Korean Republic won Learn Along:
About Philippines
President: Bongbong Marcos Capital: Manila
WHO certifies Cabo Verde as malaria-free,
Currency: Philippine peso
marking a historic milestone in the fight About Vietnam
against malaria Capital: Hanoi Currency: Vietnamese đồng
 The World Health Organization (WHO) certifies European Ports Alliance Launched
Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country, joining
43 other countries and 1 territory with the same  The EU launched a “European Ports Alliance”
recognition. on to harmonize methods to combat drug
 Cabo Verde is the third country in the WHO smuggling and infiltration by criminal groups at
African region to achieve this status, following ports.
Mauritius and Algeria.  The initiative was inaugurated at Belgium’s
Learn Along: Antwerp port, the main gateway for cocaine into
About WHO Europe.
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland Founded: 7
 It brought together EU interior ministers and
April 1948 Director-General: Tedros Adhanom representatives from 16 EU ports and sea
Ghebreyesus transport organizations.
About Cabo Verde
Capital: Praia Currency: Cape Verdean escudo Need for coordinated effort
 A coordinated effort is needed because if efforts
Philippines, Vietnam sign agreement on are only made at one port, criminals immediately
cooperation in South China Sea move to another. Europe’s major ports currently
face violence from local mafias seeking to
 The Philippines and Vietnam signed maintain the lucrative illegal drug trade. These
agreements to prevent incidents in the South groups include criminal gangs in the Netherlands
China Sea and broaden cooperation between with Moroccan roots and in Belgium with links to
their coast guards in a growing alliance that will Albanian and Italian mafia rings. They attempt to
likely be frowned upon by China, which claims bribe or coerce port workers, officials, truck
virtually the entire waters. drivers, customs and police to enable drug
 The agreements, along with discussions on smuggling.
enhancing information-sharing and training Booming cocaine market
exchanges between the Vietnamese and  Cocaine smuggled from Latin America is flooding
Philippine militaries, were forged during a visit the European market. In Antwerp, annual
to Hanoi by Philippine President Ferdinand seizures continue to increase, reaching 116
Marcos Jr. Both sides agreed to boost trade and tonnes in 2023. Antwerp also experiences
investment and signed a key deal on rice. frequent gang violence as groups compete for
 The Philippines and Vietnam have had control of the trade. Seizures are skyrocketing,
especially tense confrontations with China in yet street prices are falling, indicating ample
the strategic waterway and key route for supply.
global trade in recent years. Criminals move to smaller ports
 Territorial face-offs in the high seas between  As security has increased at ports like Rotterdam
Chinese and Philippine ships intensified last and now Antwerp, smugglers have moved to
year, fuelling fears of a wider conflict that could smaller ports like Helsingborg, Sweden.
Similarly, reinforced security at Colombian ports
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
led gangs to shift exports from Guayaquil, India helps Afghanistan, sends 40,000 litres
Ecuador which has become the main gateway to of Malathion to combat locust threat
Europe for Colombian and Peruvian cocaine. In
the EU, nearly 70% of customs drug seizures  In a generous move to support Afghan
occur at ports, showing the need for cooperation people in dealing with the locust menace,
between police, customs and private port the Indian government has supplied 40,000
operators to combat corruption enabling the litres of Malathion, an environmentally friendly
trade. pesticide, through Iran's Chabahar port.
Concern over synthetic drugs  Malathion, known for its efficacy in arid regions
 Alongside cocaine, authorities increasingly worry and minimal water usage, is considered a
about synthetic drugs. French Interior Minister crucial tool in locust control.
Gerard Darmanin attended the alliance launch  The aid not only addresses the immediate
and called for a joint strategy against fentanyl threat in Afghanistan but also serves to
before it takes hold in Europe as it has in the U.S. prevent the spread of locusts to
Currently, fentanyl use remains “very low” in neighbouring Central Asian countries.
Europe, but the EU dismantles 400 drug
laboratories yearly, mostly exporting synthetic Cameroon Launches World’s First Malaria
drugs globally. Vaccine Program for Children
Key focus areas
 The ports alliance aims to increase information  Cameroon to be the first country in Africa to
sharing and adopt effective models while routinely administer a new malaria vaccine.
mapping drug flows and dismantling the criminal  Vaccination campaign to start on January 22,
groups behind them. Because criminal groups considered a milestone in the effort to combat
quickly adapt, the focus cannot remain solely on malaria in Africa.
shipments from Latin America. Smugglers also
 Gavi vaccines alliance, assisting Cameroon in
route drugs through West and North Africa to
securing shots, expects the vaccine to save
small boats bound for Europe.
lives and relieve pressure on the country's
health system.
19th NAM Summit set to begin in Uganda's
Kampala  Cameroon aims to vaccinate about 250,000
children in 2024 and 2025 using the recently
 The 19th NAM Summit under Uganda's approved Mosquirix vaccine.
leadership is being held under the theme  Gavi is working with 20 other African
'Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global countries to help them acquire the vaccine, with
Affluence' and brings together more than 120 a goal to immunize more than six million children
developing countries on a platform of crucial by 2025.
historic significance.  Mosquirix, endorsed by the World Health
 The NAM is a forum of 120 countries that are Organization two years ago, is about 30%
not formally aligned with or against any major
effective, requires four doses, and protection
power bloc.
diminishes after several months.
 India supports Uganda's theme for NAM and
 GSK, the producer of Mosquirix, can only
looks forward to engaging with NAM countries.
Learn Along: manufacture about 15 million doses per year.
About Uganda  Oxford University's malaria vaccine, approved
Capital: Kampala Currency: Ugandan by WHO in October, is considered a more
shilling practical solution by some experts.
Learn Along:

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
About Cameroon U.K. to ban vapes, control e-cigarettes aimed

Capital: Yaoundé Currency: Central African CFA franc at children
Nepal, China to sign plan to implement BRI  The British government plans to ban the sale
projects of disposable vapes to prevent children from
getting addicted to nicotine.
 Nepal and China will sign the implementation  There will be limitations on the variety of
plan of the Belt and Road Initiative “very flavors in an effort to discourage youth vaping.
soon, seven years after the two neighbours  The proposal aims to restrict flavors marketed
inked an agreement to undertake ambitious specifically at children and ensure less visually
Beijing-backed infrastructure projects in the appealing packaging for vapes.
Himalayan nation.  Youth vaping has tripled in the past three
Learn Along: years, with cheap and colorful disposable vapes
About China
identified as a key driver.
President: Xi Jinping Capital: Beijing
 The government intends to gradually raise the
About Nepal
Capital: Kathmandu Currency: Nepalese rupee
minimum age to buy cigarettes, preventing
anyone born after Jan. 1, 2009, from legally
Maersk Unveils World’s Biggest Methanol- purchasing them.
Powered Container Ship  The plan follows a similar proposal in New
Zealand, which was abandoned after a change
 The world’s first large methanol-enabled of government.
Learn Along:
container vessel has been named "Ane
About U.K
Mærsk" at a ceremony in the shipyard of HD
Capital: London Currency: Pound sterling
Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) in Ulsan,
South Korea. Three West African junta-led states quit
 The vessel is named after Ane Mærsk Mc- ECOWAS regional block
Kinney Uggla, the Chair of the A.P. Moller
Foundation and A.P. Moller Holding.  Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, led by military
 “Ane Mærsk” is the first of Maersk’s 18 large governments, announce their immediate
methanol-enabled vessels, that will be withdrawal from the Economic Community of
West African States (ECOWAS).
delivered between 2024 and 2025.
 The move is a setback for ECOWAS' regional
 It is the world’s second methanol-enabled
integration efforts, following the suspension of
container vessel. the three nations after coups.
Learn Along:
 The withdrawal could further weaken
About Maersk ECOWAS, which has struggled to address a
 A.P. Moller - Maersk is an integrated logistics democratic retreat in West Africa.
company working to connect and simplify its
 The three nations are also members of the
customers’ supply chains.
 As a global leader in logistics services, the company West African Monetary Union (UEMOA), facing
operates in more than 130 countries and employs financial restrictions after the coups.
over 100,000 people. Learn Along
 Maersk is aiming to reach net zero emissions by About ECOWAS
2040 across the entire business with new  The Heads of State and Government of fifteen West
technologies, new vessels, and green fuels. African Countries established the Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
when they signed the ECOWAS Treaty on the 28th Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria,
of May 1975 in Lagos, Nigeria. Sierra Leone, Sénégal and Togo, with its stated
 The Treaty of Lagos was signed by the 15 Heads of mission to promote economic integration across the
State and government of Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte region.
d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea
STATES
State-funded MSP scheme for forest produce in  The government ordered the submission of a bond
Odisha declaring that, after the completion of studies
related to healthcare, the candidates would
 The Odisha government announced to launch serve in any health institution of the State for at
LABHA (Laghu Bana Jatya Drabya Kraya) Yojna least two years.
— a 100% State-funded minimum support price
scheme for minor forest produces. Northeast to get its first naturopathy hospital
 The decision is likely to benefit about 1 crore
tribals, which is 23% of State’s total population.  Union AYUSH Minister Sarbananda Sonowal
 Under the scheme a primary collector (tribal) and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
laid the foundation of the first yoga and
will be able to sell minor forest produce at
naturopathy hospital in the Northeast.
MSP collected at the procurement centres by
Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation  About ₹100 crore would be invested in the
Central Research Institute of Yoga and
Limited of Odisha.
Learn Along:
Naturopathy (CRIYN) at Dihing Khamtighat in
About Odisha eastern Assam’s Dibrugarh district.
Chief minister: Naveen Patnaik Capital: Bhubaneswar  The institute, along with a 100-bed hospital, would
Governor: Raghubar Das be spread across 15 acres.
Odisha to set up a melanistic tiger safari, first of Nitish Kumar Resigns As Bihar Chief Minister To
its kind in the world Join Hands With BJP
 The Odisha Government announced that it will  Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar resigned and
establish the world’s first melanistic tiger safari. handed over his resignation to Governor
 The safari will be established near Baripada, Rajendra Arlekar in Patna.
district headquarter town of Mayurbhanj.  Nitish Kumar announced the decision to sever
 An area of 200 hectares adjoining National ties with the Mahagathbandhan in the state
Highway-18 has been identified for the purpose. during a meeting with the Governor.
 Nitish Kumar rejoined the BJP-led National
Odisha makes two years of service mandatory to Democratic Alliance (NDA), ending the
meet doctors’ shortage Mahagathbandhan rule in Bihar.
Learn Along:
 Faced with a severe shortage of doctors, the About Bihar
Odisha government has declared that Capital: Patna Governor: Rajendra Arlekar
admission to government medical colleges
would be denied to any student unwilling to Tamil Nadu Cabinet approves new policy aimed
commit to serving the State for a mandatory at ‘holistic development of women’
period of two years following the completion of
their studies.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The Tamil Nadu Cabinet approved the State’s  Making two major announcements on the fourth
New Policy for Women. anniversary of his government, Jharkhand Chief
 The policy, focusing on holistic development, aims Minister Hemant Soren announced the
to empower women through education, qualifying age for old-age pension will be
economic independence, and power sharing. reduced from 60 to 50 for Dalits and tribals, and
75% of jobs will be reserved for locals in
 Committees at the state and district levels will
be formed to monitor its implementation, with the companies that set up offices in the state.
Chief Secretaries and Collectors heading these  The government has decided to provide
committees. pension benefits to tribals and Dalits on
 The Social Welfare and Women Empowerment reaching the age of 50 years.
Department will oversee the implementation. Learn Along:
 The policy comes 23 years after the release of About Jharkhand
Chief minister: Hemant Soren Founded: 15 November
the national-level policy in 2001
2000
Learn Along:
Capital:Ranchi Governor:
About Tamil Nadu
C. P. Radhakrishnan
Chief minister: M. K. Stalin Governor: R. N. Ravi
Capital: Chennai
PM inaugurated opening ceremony of the Khelo
India Youth Games 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu to launch semiconductor and
electronics policy at investors’ meet
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated
Khelo India Youth Games 2023 in Chennai.
 The Tamil Nadu government will unveil a
'Semiconductor and Advanced Electronics  He launched and laid foundation stone for
Policy' during the Global Investors Meet (GIM) broadcasting projects worth Rs 250 crores.
on January 7 and 8.
Jallikattu season begins in Tamil Nadu
 The policy aims to attract investments in the
semiconductor and advanced electronics  The Jallikattu competition, a bull taming sport,
sectors. began on 15 January in Avaniyapuram village
 Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa emphasizes the in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district amid much
focus on developing exclusive policies for cheering from the crowd.
semiconductors and advanced electronics to  Jallikattu is a popular bull-embracing sport
establish Tamil Nadu as a hub in these sectors. traditionally played in Tamil Nadu during the
 The state aims to reach $8 billion in electronics Pongal harvest festival in the second week of
exports this year and advance into high-end January.
design and manufacturing of high-value  The event will be held for three days.
electronics.  Jallikattu will be held in Avaniyapuram, on
 As of November 30, 2023, Tamil Nadu's total second day in Palamedu and on the third day in
electronics exports stood at $5.59 billion, Alanganallur.
accounting for nearly 31.51% of India's total  Meanwhile, on 23 January, Tamil Nadu CM MK
electronics exports for the same period ($17.74 Stalin will inaugrate the newly-built Madurai
billion). Jallikattu stadium named after former chief
minister of the state and late DMK leader M
Hemant Soren's Big Announcement On Old-Age Karunanidhi.
Pension In Jharkhand
Kachchhi Kharek, indigenous dates of Kutch,
become Gujarat’s 2nd fruit to get GI tag

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Recently, Kachchhi Kharek, the indigenous PM inaugurates and lays foundation stone for
variety of dates of Kutch, has become the second development projects worth over Rs 19,100
fruit of Gujarat to get a geographical indication crores in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh
(GI) tag.
 It is the indigenous variety of dates of Kutch,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates and
Gujarat. lays foundation for projects worth over Rs
 The presence of dates in Kachchh (Kutch) is 19,100 crores in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh.
believed to be around 400–500 years old.  Projects span various sectors, including rail,
road, oil and gas, urban development, and
 It has become the second fruit of Gujarat to get a
housing.
geographical indication (GI) tag, after Gir kesar
 He Discussed NaMo Drone Didi scheme to train
mango.
women self-help groups as drone pilots for rural
Learn Along:
economy and agriculture.
About Geographical Indications (GI) tag Learn Along:
 A geographical indication or GI is used on products About Uttar Pradesh
that have a specific geographical origin and possess Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath Governor: Anandiben
qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. Patel Capital: Lucknow
 Geographical Indications are part of the intellectual
property rights. NGEL signs MoU with Government of
 Awarded by: Controller General of Patents, Designs Maharashtra for development of Green Hydrogen
Projects; ~ ₹ 80, 000 crores investment expected
and Trademarks (CGPDT) of India.
in five years
 Administered by: Geographical Indications of Goods
(Registration and Protection) Act of 1999.  NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) has signed
About Gujarat a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel Government of Maharashtra for development of
Founded: 1 May 1960 Green Hydrogen and derivatives (Green
Governor: Acharya Devvrat Capital: Ammonia, Green Methanol) of up to 1 million Ton
Gandhinagar capacity per annum, including Pumped Storage
Projects of 2 GW and development of
Rajasthan Governor announces formation of renewable energy projects with or without
economic revival task force on Republic Day storage up to 5 GW in the state.
 Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra announces the  The MoU has been signed as a part of
formation of an economic revival task force. Government of Maharashtra’s Green
 The task force aims to prepare a roadmap for
Investment Plan for the next five years.
strengthening the state's economy and
 The agreement envisages a potential investment
ensuring sustainable development.
of approximately ₹ 80, 000 crores.
 He emphasizes the state government's
 NTPC is in the path of building renewable energy
commitment to economic growth through the
capacity of 60 GW by 2032.
"ease of doing business" model.
 The Antyodaya concept of Jan Sangh leader  NGEL is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NTPC and
Deendayal Upadhyaya guides the state's socio- aims to be the flag bearer of NTPC’s
economic development initiatives Renewable Energy journey with an operational
Learn Along: capacity of over 3.4 GW and 26 GW in pipeline
About Rajasthan including 7 GW under implementation.
Founded: 30 March 1949 Governor: Kalraj Mishra
Learn Along:
Capital: Jaipur
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
About Maharashtra  A special squad deployed by the Drugs Control

Chief minister: Eknath Shinde Governor: Ramesh Bais department will be covertly monitoring the sale
Capital: Mumbai of antibiotics.
 Pharmacies will have to store the correct
Digital University Kerala introduces Kairali AI details of antibiotics they sell.
Chip, the first-of-its-kind  Pharmacies will also have to display a board on
the premises that antibiotics will not be sold
 Digital University Kerala introduces the state's without prescription.
first silicon-proven AI chip named Kairali AI
Chip. PM inaugurates three infrastructure projects
 The chip focuses on speed, power efficiency, worth ₹4,000 crore in Kochi
and scalability, offering edge intelligence
capabilities.  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated
 Applications span across agriculture, aerospace, three infrastructure projects worth ₹4,000
mobile phones, automobiles, drones, and crore in Kochi.
security.  The projects include a new dry dock and an
 Developed by a team led by Dean Alex P. James international ship repair facility (ISRF) of
at the AI Chip Centre within Digital University Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) and an LPG import
Kerala. terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited at
 Kairali AI Chip facilitates edge intelligence for Puthuvypeen.
real-time processing with minimal power and  The new dry dock, the country's largest,
latency, reducing the need for cloud enables repairs for big vessels, reducing
computations. dependence on foreign countries and saving
 Potential applications include precision farming foreign exchange.
for real-time monitoring of crop health, soil  The ISRF aims to transform Kochi into South
conditions, and environmental factors. Asia's largest ship-repair center, fostering a
Learn Along: new ecosystem of MSMEs in shipbuilding and
About Kerala repair.
CM:Pinarayi Vijayan Governor:Arif Mohammed Khan  The LPG import terminal will cater to the needs
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram of Kochi, Kozhikode, Coimbatore, Erode,
Salem, Madurai, and Trichy.
Operation Amrith to check antibiotics abuse in
Kerala Bengal Chief Minister inaugurates 47th Kolkata
Book Fair
 The State Drugs Control department in Kerala
will launch Operation Amrith (Antimicrobial  West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
Resistance Intervention for Total Health) to check inaugurated the 47th edition of the
antibiotics abuse in the State. International Kolkata Book Fair.
 This initiative will be implemented with public  The United Kingdom is the theme country for
participation. People can pass on information this year's fair, featuring about 1000 stalls.
on pharmacies selling antibiotics without  The book fair will continue until January 31 at
prescription to the Drugs Control department. Salt Lake's Central Park.
 This initiative will be an example of participatory  Veteran Bengali writer Bani Basu received the
antimicrobial stewardship, wherein the public lifetime 'Rama Prasad Goenka CESC Srishti
can play a major role. Samman 2024' for her contribution to literature.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan to unveil 125-ft statue and the fifth in Asia, protecting the night sky from
of Ambedkar in Vijayawada light pollution.
 Recognizing the value of the night sky, the
 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan International Union for Conservation of Nature
Mohan Reddy will unveil a 125 foot statue of Dr (IUCN) emphasizes its importance for nature
B R Ambedkar at Swaraj Maidan in Vijayawada. conservation, ecological integrity, and
 The statue, constructed at an estimated cost of community well-being.
Rs 404 crore, stands on an 81-foot pedestal,  The Dark Sky Place certification focuses on
making it a 206-feet monument. lighting policy, dark sky-friendly retrofits,
 It is named as the ‘Statute of Social Justice’ outreach and education, and night sky
and Swaraj Maidan will be named after Dr B R monitoring.
Ambedkar.  PTR inaugurated a night observatory funded
 The 125-foot statue is made of steel frame and by the district planning committee, with an
bronze cladding and is completely made in India. earmarked stargazing area near Bagholi.
Learn Along:
Learn Along:
About Madhya Pradesh
About Andhra Pradesh
Capital: Bhopal Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel
Chief minister: YS Jagan Mohan Reddy
Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer Capital: Amaravati Chief minister: Mohan Yadav
9th Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival

Andhra becomes 2nd State to take up ‘caste
census’  The 9th Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF)
 Andhra Pradesh government initiates will be held from January 18-20, 2024 in
comprehensive caste census, spanning 10 days
Arunachal Pradesh.
from January 19.
 Declared a state festival, it centers around
 Andhra Pradesh is the second state, after Bihar, wildlife conservation, especially hornbills found
to undertake a caste census. in the Pakke Tiger Reserve.
 No caste census conducted in India post-  The reserve harbors four hornbill species –
independence; earlier opinions from caste Oriental Pied, Great Indian, Rufous-necked and
representatives were sought by the Andhra
the endangered Wreathed Hornbill. The week-
Pradesh government.
long event generates awareness on preserving
these iconic birds.
PM Modi to Inaugurate NACIN Campus in Andhra
Pradesh  PPHF also spotlights the role of indigenous
Nyishi tribes in protecting hornbills after
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to having earlier hunted them.
visit Palasamudram in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri  It forges connections between forests, wildlife
Satyasai district and inaugurate the National and local communities.
Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and  The Nyishi is the largest tribal group in
Narcotics (NACIN) institute. Arunachal Pradesh.
Learn Along:
Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra becomes About Arunachal Pradesh
India’s first Dark Sky Park Chief minister: Pema Khandu Capital: Itanagar
Governnor: Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
 Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra is
L-G inaugurates 2-day long international ‘Patang
designated as the first Dark Sky Park in India
Utsav’

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena expecting it to increase to ₹1,200 crore in 2025

inaugurated the first international kite festival, and ₹1,500 crore annually from 2026 onwards.
'Patang Utsav,' at Baansera, the city's bamboo- Learn Along:
theme park at Sarai Kale Khan on the Yamuna's About Karnataka
banks. Chief minister: Siddaramaiah Governor:
Thawar Chand Gehlot Capital: Bengaluru
 The two-day festival is organized by the Delhi
Development Authority (DDA) and features over
Karnataka launches ‘Yuva Nidhi’ scheme
30 professional kitists from states like Rajasthan,
Sikkim, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab,
Lakshadweep, and Gujarat, showcasing various  Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
launched the ‘Yuva Nidhi’ scheme, the fifth and
kites in terms of shapes, sizes, and colors.
final poll guarantee of the Congress government
 The festival is planned as a recreational
which provides financial assistance for
opportunity for families and kids to celebrate
Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Bihu, Maghi, educated unemployed youth of the State.
Uttarayani, and Pongal.  The scheme offers financial assistance,
besides training programmes training to
 The 'Baansera' bamboo-theme park, aimed at
graduates and diploma holders, who are yet to get
enhancing the Yamuna floodplains' ecological a job, for a maximum of two years to develop
character, was inaugurated by L-G Saxena in
skills and seek jobs.
August 2022 and developed in a record six
 Every month around 1.5 crore families in the
months with over 30,000 bamboo saplings.
State get ₹5,000 to ₹6,000 under the five
guarantee schemes - Stree Shakti, Gruha Jyothi,
Yuva Nidhi launched by Congress government
for unemployed youth in Karnataka Gruha Lakshmi, and Annabhagya. Since
implementation of Shakti scheme on June 11,
 Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM women have used the benefit during over 130
D.K. Shivakumar launched the Yuva Nidhi crore travels.
scheme, the fifth poll guarantee of the Congress  The unemployment rate was 5.5% in 2014. Now
for educated unemployed youth of Karnataka, in it stands at 10.5%.
Shivamogga on January 12.
Kerala Launches ‘Operation Amrith’
 The scheme provides financial aid to
graduates and diploma holders who are yet to  The Kerala Drug Control Department initiated
get a job, with training offered through the state Operation Amrith (Antimicrobial Resistance
government's skill connect portal. Intervention For Total Health) to curb the overuse
 The government promises ₹3,000 per month of antibiotics in the state.
to degree holders and ₹1,500 per month to  AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) refers to the
diploma holders, paid for two years, if they
resistance of bacteria and microbes to drugs,
haven't found a job in the past six months and are
leading to a "silent pandemic" responsible for
not pursuing higher studies.
around 5 million deaths globally in 2019.
 The scheme is applicable only to graduates
and diploma holders domiciled in Karnataka,  The Drugs Controller of Kerala emphasizes the
and the unemployment allowance is available department's role in optimizing antibiotic use
until the applicant secures a job or for a maximum by preventing over-the-counter (OTC) sales
of two years. without a prescription.
 The State Government has earmarked ₹250  Kerala launched the Kerala Antimicrobial
crore for the scheme in the current year, Resistance Surveillance Network (KARS-NET) for
human surveillance in 2018-19 and inaugurated

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
an AMR lab for environmental surveillance in  The card, introduced by the Ministry of Housing
August 2023. and Urban Affairs, is a one-stop solution for
Learn Along: facilitating payments of travel fares, toll taxes, and
About Kerala retail purchases, and allows cash withdrawals.
Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan Governor: Arif  Operating via the RuPay card system, the
Mohammed Khan Capital: Thiruvananthapuram NCMC can be obtained as a prepaid, debit, or
credit card from associated banks.
Assam government launches India's first App-
based e-bike taxi service Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare
inaugurates the country’s 1st Healthy & Hygienic
 The Government of Assam launches Baayu, Food Street, 'PRASADAM,'
India's first app-based 100% electric and
decentralized bike taxi service.  Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Dr.
 Baayu is a sustainable mobility initiative by Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurates the country's
Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) in first Healthy & Hygienic Food Street,
collaboration with Bikozee Ecotech. 'PRASADAM,' in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
 The service aims to generate 5,000 livelihood  The initiative aims to connect citizens with pure
opportunities for driver-partners in Assam, and safe local and traditional food, promoting
supporting electric vehicles, technology platforms, healthy eating habits.
training, and skill development.  The official website for the Healthy & Hygienic
Food Street initiative is launched, along with a
 NITI Aayog's Shoonya Zero pollution mobility
brochure outlining the Standard Operating
campaign supports Baayu's "Clean Air
Procedure.
Movement" to improve air quality and public
 Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
health by deploying electric vehicles. (FSSAI) releases "The DART Book" to check
 The initiative is integrated with ONDC (Open food adulteration at home and launches the
Network for Digital Commerce), an initiative by mobile food testing van "Food Safety on
DPIIT, aiming to democratize digital commerce Wheels."
and create an interoperable open network.  "Prasadam," spread over 939 square meters with
Learn Along:
17 shops, offers culturally rich dining options
About Assam
Chief minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma Capital:
for daily devotees at Mahakaleshwar Temple.
Dispur Governor: Gulab Chand Kataria  The food street aims to enhance Ujjain's
tourism appeal, preserve culinary traditions, and
Assam CM flags off 200 green buses from contribute to economic growth and community
Guwahati to curb pollution engagement.
 Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Chhattisgarh to Introduce Ramlala Darshan
flagged off 200 electric buses from Guwahati. Scheme for Ayodhya Pilgrimage
 He termed the initiative as the government's
 The Chhattisgarh government has approved
one of the biggest push towards a pollution-
the Ram Lala Darshan (Ayodhya Dham) Yojana,
free environment.
fulfilling a promise made by the Bharatiya Janata
 Meanwhile, the Assam Chief Minister also
Party before the elections.
ceremonially launched the National Common
 Under the scheme, 20,000 eligible residents will
Mobility Card (NCMC), a versatile transport card
be taken on a pilgrimage to Ayodhya every
in Guwahati.
year.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The Chhattisgarh Tourism Board will employees the option of the Old Pension
implement the scheme, funded by the Tourism Scheme (OPS).
Department.  The option is available to employees who
 Eligibility criteria include age between 18 and joined service after November 2005 based on
75 years, with the first phase targeting those recruiting advertisements issued before that date.
above 55 years.  The decision follows protests by government
 Pilgrims will travel from different points in and semi-government employees demanding
Chhattisgarh to Ayodhya Dham, covering the restoration of the OPS.
approximately 900 kilometers with a visit to  Under OPS, a government employee receives
Varanasi. a monthly pension equivalent to 50% of their
 An MoU will be signed between Chhattisgarh last-drawn salary without employee
Tourism Board and Indian Railway Catering
contributions.
and Tourism Corporation for the journey.
 New Pension Scheme (NPS) requires a 10%
Learn Along:
About Chhatisgarh employee contribution, with the state making a
Capital : Raipur Governor : Biswabhusan matching contribution.
Harichandan Chief minister:Vishnu Deo Sai
RECPDCL signs MoU with Govt. of Gujarat for
Once a 42-km drive, Atal Setu will reduce Smart Metering project
Mumbai-Navi Mumbai commute to 20 minutes
 REC Power Development and Consultancy
 Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), known as Limited (RECPDCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of
REC Limited, has inked a Memorandum of
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri Nhava Sheva Atal
Setu, to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Understanding (MoU) with the Government of
Narendra Modi. Gujarat for Rs. 2,094.28 Crores for the
 The project, costing nearly ₹20,000 crore, is implementation of the Smart Metering project in
aimed at reducing the 42 km, two-hour-long PGVCL (Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Ltd.) under
journey to a 22 km, 20-minute drive, saving Phase 1 of Revamped Distribution Sector
Scheme (RDSS).
time and fuel.
 In the strategic collaboration, the Government of
 Touted as India's longest sea bridge, the six-lane
Gujarat is set to facilitate RECPDCL in
project comprises a 16.5 km sea bridge and a obtaining necessary permissions and
5.5 km elevated road on land. clearances for their upcoming projects in the
 Designed to carry 70,000 vehicles daily at an state.
average speed of 100 km per hour, the bridge  The MoU was signed ahead of Vibrant Gujarat
incorporates advanced materials and Summit 2024 by MD, Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam
technology for durability against earthquakes, (GUVNL), Shri Jai Prakash Shivahare and CEO,
cyclones, and tides. RECPDCL, Shri Rajesh Kumar Gupta in presence
Learn Along: of Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel.
About Maharashtra Learn Along:
Chief minister: Eknath Shinde Governor: Ramesh Bais
About REC Limited
Capital: Mumbai  REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector
Enterprise established in 1969, under Ministry of
Maharashtra Cabinet permits Old Pension Power, provides long-term loans and other finance
Scheme option products for Power-Infrastructure sector
comprising Generation, Transmission,
 CM Eknath Shinde Cabinet in Maharashtra Distribution, Renewable Energy and new
approves offering State government
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
technologies like Electric Vehicles, Battery Storage  Members of the community residing in 154
and Green Hydrogen. panchayats protested against the delay in
implementing the Constitution (Scheduled
Punjab app makes history by mapping all Tribes) Order (Second Amendment) Act, 2023.
accident spots
 The decision followed the passage of the
Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order
 Punjab Police, in collaboration with MapMyIndia,
mapped all 784 accident black spots across (Second Amendment) Bill, 2023 by Parliament
the state on their navigation system Mappls and its notification by the President on August 4
App. last year.
 With this, Punjab becomes the first state to  The state Cabinet initiated Phase-2 of the Rajiv
have mapped accident black spots. Gandhi Swarozgar Start-Up Yojna to encourage
 The app will alert commuters by giving a voice solar power plant businesses among people aged
message “Blackspot 100 meter di doori te hai 21 to 45.
(Black Spot is 100 meters ahead.  The scheme focuses on installing solar power
Learn Along: plants with capacities from 100 kW to 500 kW,
About Punjab contributing to the state's renewable energy
Capital: Chandigarh Governor: Banwarilal targets.
Purohit Chief minister: Bhagwant Mann  The Cabinet approved the 'Sarkar Gaon Ke
Dwar' program to be held from January 8 to 12
Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya across the state.
inaugurates cashless health facility under Learn Along:
Ayushman Yojana About Himachal Pradesh
Chief minister: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Capitals:
 Haryana Government bestowed a cashless Shimla (Summer), Dharamshala (Winter)
health facility upon government employees Governor: Shiv Pratap Shukla
and their dependents in the new year.
 Governor Bandaru Dattatreya inaugurated the PM launches Internet cable project in
cashless health facility under Ayushman Lakshadweep
Yojana.
 The state government had launched the scheme  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the
on a pilot basis in November last year, initially Kochi–Lakshadweep submarine optical fibre
covering employees from the Fisheries and cable project.
Horticulture departments and now the coverage  The project cost is ₹1,072 crore and aims to
has been extended to all regular government connect Lakshadweep islands to high-speed
employees. internet for the first time.
Learn Along:
 The undersea cable link will provide 100 times
About Haryana
faster internet for the people of Lakshadweep.
Chief minister: Manohar Lal Khattar Governor:
Bandaru Dattatreya Capital: Chandigarh
 Kavaratti, the capital of Lakshadweep, and
several other islands will be connected,
including Agatti, Amini, Kadmat, Chetlet, Kalpeni,
Himachal govt issues notification to grant ST
Minicoy, Androth, Kiltan, Bangaram, and Bitra.
status to Hatti community
 The 1,868 km of cables will enable the
 The Himachal Pradesh government granted provision of 4G, 5G, and high-speed home
Scheduled Tribes (ST) status to the Hatti broadband by telecom companies and internet
community of Transgiri area in Sirmaur district. service providers.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The project was executed by the Japanese firm

NEC, and the cables were laid by the state-owned West Bengal acquired GI tags for some products,
telco BSNL. including Sundarban honey, Black Nunia rice,
Tangail, Gorod & Kadiyal sarees
GI tags for over 17 products from Odisha,
Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, and J&K  West Bengal has acquired a Geographical
Indication (GI) tag for some products which
 Lanjia Saura paintings, Dongaria Kondh shawl, include Sundarban honey, Black Nunia rice
Khajuri Guda from Odisha, and Wancho from Jalpaiguri district and Tangail, Gorod
Wooden Craft from Arunachal Pradesh received and Kadiyal sarees.
Geographical Indications (GI) tags.  West Bengal Forest Development Corporation
 Lanjia Saura paintings are wall mural art with Limited (WBFDCL) applied for an exclusive GI
spiritual significance for the tribe, preserving the tag for Sunderban honey.
culture of indigent Lanjia Sauras.  This honey was collected by the 'Mouli'
 Dongaria Kondh shawls reflect the unique and community from the Sunderban forest.
ancient culture, traditions, and beliefs of the hill WBFDCL collects and processes the honey and
tribe, despite modern influences. sells it with the brand name Mouban.
 Khajuri Guda is a natural sweetener produced  The Black Nunia rice is called Prince of Rice
from date palm juice in Odisha, prepared by tribal and is cultivated in the Jalpaiguri district of the
populations in specific districts. State. It is an indigenous variety of rice.
 Wancho Wooden Craft from Arunachal Pradesh  Kadiyal saree is produced only at Mirzapur of
is an ethnic art practiced by the Wancho tribes for Murshidabad district of West Bengal. Tangail and
generations, used for decoration and gifting. Gorod saree are also famous in this field.
 Three products from West Bengal—Tangail
Saree, Garad Saree, and Korial Saree—received Similipal Kai Chutney Gets Geographical
GI tags, along with Odisha's Dhenkanal Magji Indication Tag
and Similipal Kai Chutney.
 Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal, known for prickly  The Similipal kai chutney, made with red
thorns, and products like Kalonunia Rice, weaver ants by the tribal people of Odisha’s
Sundarban Honey, Kachchhi Kharek, Ramban Mayurbhanj district, received a geographical
Anardana, Koraput Kalajeera Rice, and indication (GI) tag on January 2nd, 2024.
Arunachal Pradesh Adi Kekir (Ginger) also  The savory ant chutney is renowned in the
received GI tags. region for its nutritional and medicinal
Learn Along: properties.
About GI Tag  The Mayurbhanj Kai Society Ltd applied for GI
 A GI or Geographical Indication is a name or a sign registration of Similipal kai chutney in 2020
given to certain products that relate to a specific under the Geographical Indications of Goods
geographical location or origins like a region, town (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
or country.
 Earlier, kai chutney was popular only among
 Using Geographical Indications may be regarded as a
certification that the particular product is produced
tribal people. But Thanks to rising awareness, it
as per traditional methods, has certain specific has gained popularity in urban areas as well.
qualities, or has a particular reputation because of its
geographical origin.
REPORTS AND INDEXES

African raptor population declines 88% in 40  Higher-income nations often have greater
years, many crossing IUCN threshold: Report disaster costs as they possess infrastructure
that gets damaged. Also, their insurance
 Raptors in Africa have experienced a coverage is more comprehensive. For instance,
widespread decline of about 88 per cent in the 76% of economic losses were insured in the US
past 40 years, a new study revealed.
versus just 13% in Asia-Pacific.
 37 of the 42 species examined by the Scientists
Slower Recovery for Poor Nations
have seen a decline in their population.
 Rich countries can recover faster given their
 Out of the total, 29 (69 per cent) have seen a drop resilience resources. But lower-income
in population over three generation lengths. developing countries witness slower, unequal
 The researchers studying 27 species in multiple rebuilding which pushes more people into
regions of Africa found that 24 of them (89 per hardship. As poor communities have
cent) exceeded the decline threshold. contributed negligible emissions, this inequity is
 As many as 13 of these species are enlisted in gravely unfair.
the Least Concern category, raising the issue of Underinsured Losses
reassessing their status.  Africa’s Cyclone Freddy caused over $680
 Six of the species that is secretarybird million in damages across Malawi – almost 5%
(Sagittarius serpentarius), lappet-faced vulture of their GDP. But with average annual income
(Torgos tracheliotos), bateleur, tawny eagle under $500, the per capita expense for
(Aquila rapax), steppe eagle (A nipalensis) and reconstruction is unviable, indicating serious
martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) are underinsurance.
endemic or near endemic to Africa who have Storms and Cyclones Lead Damage
declined rapidly than the threshold rates, a method  The report found tropical storms like Cyclones
used by IUCN to define threat status. Judy and Kevin in Vanuatu accounted for
 “Three additional species showing steep declines almost a third of the island country’s $3000 per
are augur buzzard (Buteo augur), Dickinson’s capita GDP. More storms are expected due to
kestrel (Falco dickinsoni) and Beaudouin’s climate change.
snake-eagle (Circaetus beaudouini). Adapting to Minimize Lives Lost
 Lack of warning systems and preparedness
worsens loss of life and livelihoods after
“Counting the Cost 2023: A Year of Climate
extreme events, as seen in Storm Daniel’s
Breakdown” Report
Mediterranean floods killing 11,000 people
across Libya’s vulnerable coastal region.
 A Christian Aid report titled “Counting the
Mobilizing Finance for Adapting and
Cost 2023: a year of climate breakdown” was
Recovering
released recently.  The report pressed developed countries to fulfill
 By analyzing 20 of the most expensive climate- obligations and deploy funds urgently so
linked disasters in 2023, it found 85% were vulnerable nations can adapt better and
floods, storms or cyclones. address escalating climate losses and
damages.
 Ranging across continents, these events were
more intense than before due to climate
change. Indian economy outperforming peers,
projected to grow at 6.2% in 2024: UN
 The researchers calculated the financial costs
per capita of these catastrophes like wildfires,
 According to the UN World Economic Situation
[Date]
droughts, floods etc.

and Prospects (WESP) 2024 report, launched
Insurance Cover Gaps
0
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
on January 4, India projected to grow at 6.2% in Indian economy outperforming peers,

2024, supported by robust domestic demand, projected to grow at 6.2% in 2024: UN
manufacturing, and services sectors.
 South Asia's GDP expected to increase  According to the UN World Economic Situation
by 5.2% in 2024, driven by India's robust and Prospects (WESP) 2024 report, launched
expansion. on January 4, India projected to grow at 6.2% in
 India's GDP growth estimated at 6.2% in 2024, supported by robust domestic demand,
2024, slightly lower than 6.3% in 2023. manufacturing, and services sectors.
 Economic growth in India to remain strong  South Asia's GDP expected to increase
at 6.2% in 2024 and expected to continue by 5.2% in 2024, driven by India's robust
over 6% in 2024 and 2025 supported by expansion.
resilient private consumption and strong  India's GDP growth estimated at 6.2% in
public investment. 2024, slightly lower than 6.3% in 2023.
 Consumer price inflation in India expected  Economic growth in India to remain strong
to decelerate from 5.7% in 2023 to 4.5% in at 6.2% in 2024 and expected to continue
2024. over 6% in 2024 and 2025 supported by
 Global economic growth projected to slow resilient private consumption and strong
from 2.7% in 2023 to 2.4% in 2024, below the public investment.
pre-pandemic growth rate of 3%.  Consumer price inflation in India expected
to decelerate from 5.7% in 2023 to 4.5% in
Growth in Asia Pacific emerging markets to 2024.
remain strong in 2024: Fitch  Global economic growth projected to slow
from 2.7% in 2023 to 2.4% in 2024, below the
 Fitch Ratings predicts strong economic growth pre-pandemic growth rate of 3%.
in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region in 2024.
 India's GDP is expected to grow by about 5%, Growth in Asia Pacific emerging markets to
alongside emerging market countries like remain strong in 2024: Fitch
Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
 Fitch Ratings predicts strong economic growth
 The outlook for India's banking sector improves
in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region in 2024.
in 2024, reflecting a robust economic backdrop.
 India's GDP is expected to grow by about 5%,
 Fitch notes that APAC's economic growth will be
strong, especially in large emerging markets, alongside emerging market countries like
offsetting challenges from slowing growth in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
China, weak global demand, and higher interest  The outlook for India's banking sector improves
rates. in 2024, reflecting a robust economic backdrop.
 India's economy grew by 7.2% in the 2022-23  Fitch notes that APAC's economic growth will be
fiscal year, with GDP expanding 7.8% and 7.6% in strong, especially in large emerging markets,
offsetting challenges from slowing growth in
the June and September quarters, respectively.
China, weak global demand, and higher interest
 Fitch anticipates India to be among the world's rates.
fastest-growing large sovereigns, with resilient
 India's economy grew by 7.2% in the 2022-23
GDP growth of 6.9% this fiscal year and 6.5% in
fiscal year, with GDP expanding 7.8% and 7.6% in
2024-25.
the June and September quarters, respectively.

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January 2024
 Fitch anticipates India to be among the world's  'Gunotsav' initiated in 2017, and the fifth round
fastest-growing large sovereigns, with resilient in 2024 underscores Assam's commitment to
GDP growth of 6.9% this fiscal year and 6.5% in improving education quality.
Learn Along:
2024-25.
About Assam
Chief minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma Capital:
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari unveils greenfield Dispur Governor: Gulab Chand Kataria
corridors in Kerala
Paying Guest Scheme a great help to visitors at
 Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced Ayodhya
greenfield corridors for enhanced road
connectivity in Kerala.  The ‘Navya Ayodhya’ project, an initiative of the
 He virtually inaugurated three projects and lays Uttar Pradesh government, is taking significant
the foundation stone for nine national highway strides forward with its innovative Paying
projects totaling 105 km and costing ₹1,464 Guest Scheme.
crore under the Bharat Pariyojana scheme.
 This unique approach is aimed at enhancing
 One greenfield corridor is the 121-km NH-966 the hospitality experience for visitors while also
Kozhikode-Palakkad stretch estimated at promoting the rich Awadh culinary heritage.
₹10,371 crore, reducing travel time between  The scheme, falling under the umbrella of the
Palakkad and Kozhikode. state’s tourism department, is working to
 Other greenfield corridors include NH-744 Kollam- illuminate the region’s gastronomy on a global
Sengottai stretch and Thiruvananthapuram stage, particularly during the International Millets
Outer Ring Road, aiming to reduce travel time Year celebrations.
significantly.  The focus is on serving traditional dishes,
Learn Along:
including those based on millets – a group of
About Kerala
highly nutritious, drought-tolerant cereals.
Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan Governor: Arif
Mohammed Khan Capital: Thiruvananthapuram  In doing so, it seeks to elevate the standing of
Ayodhya’s culinary culture while also
Assam Government To Launch 'Gunotsav 2024' promoting healthy eating habits. Furthermore, the
For State-wide Student Assessment initiative is boosting employment by creating jobs
through the establishment of homestays.
 Assam government initiates 'Gunotsav 2024,' a  In addition to the Paying Guest Scheme, the Uttar
comprehensive state-wide assessment for Pradesh government has also initiated a zero-
approximately 40 lakh students. carbon emission e-vehicle transport facility in
 The Evaluation aims to enhance education Ayodhya, further enhancing the city’s appeal to
quality and improve learning outcomes in visitors and aligning with global sustainability
government schools. efforts.
 'Gunotsav' encourages active participation of Learn Along:
teachers, students, administrators, and local About Uttar Pradesh
communities to foster accountability. Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath Governor:
Anandiben Patel Capital: Lucknow
 The Three-phase exercise was scheduled from
January 3 to February 8, 2024, covering all 35
districts.
20th Report on Central Ministries/Departments
 The Purpose includes identifying learning gaps
performance on CPGRAMS released by DARPG
in each child, ensuring quality education, and
for the month of December, 2023
evaluating schools' performance.

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January 2024
 DARPG released the CPGRAMS monthly report Vijayawada, New Delhi, Tirupati, Greater
for December 2023, analyzing types and Hyderabad, and Pune.
categories of public grievances and disposal  For cities with a population below one lakh,
nature. Sasvad, Lonavala (Maharashtra), and Patan
 It is the 20th report on Central (Chhattisgarh) secured the top three spots.
Ministries/Departments published by DARPG.  Mhow Cantonment Board in Madhya Pradesh
 Hon’ble MoS (PP) Dr. Jitendra Singh released the awarded the cleanest cantonment Board.
CPGRAMS Annual Report for 2023 and the  Varanasi and Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
CPGRAMS Mobile App at the Good recognized as the cleanest Ganga towns.
Governance Week 2023 inaugural function on
 Chandigarh awarded for being the safest city for
19th December 2023.
sanitation workers.
 CSC has been organizing CSC-CPGRAMS Day
 The theme for the cleanliness survey 2023 was
on the 20th of every month since October 2023 "Waste to wealth," and for 2024, it is "Reduce,
to increase outreach.
reuse, and recycle."
 DARPG had a stall at the Global Partnership on
Top 10 big cities (over 10 lakh population) 2023
Artificial Intelligence Summit, showcasing IIT-
1. Indore (same rank in 2022)
Kanpur's IGMS Dashboard and Data Strategy
Unit's Tree Dashboard. 2. Surat (same rank in 2022)
3. Navi Mumbai (same rank in 2022)
 In December 2023, Central
Ministries/Departments redressed 1,09,851 4. Visakhapatnam (same rank in 2022)
grievances, with an average disposal time of 19 5. Bhopal (rank 6 in 2022)
days in 2023. 6. Vijayawada (rank 5 in 2022)
 BSNL Feedback Call Centre collected 89,017 7. Greater Hyderabad (rank 10 in 2022)
feedbacks in December 2023, with ~42% 8. Pune (rank 9 in 2022)
expressing satisfaction with grievance resolution. 9. Raipur (rank 11 in 2022)
 60% of feedbacks (53,344) were collected for 10. Pimpri Chinchwad (rank 19 in 2022)
Central Ministries/Departments by the BSNL
Feedback Call Centre. Global Risks Report 2024
Swachh Survekshan awards for 2023  In the WEF’s Global Risks Report 2024 , The
World Economic Forum (WEF) has warned that
 Surat (Gujarat) and Indore (Madhya Pradesh) artificial intelligence (AI) driven misinformation
jointly declared the cleanest cities of India at the and disinformation will pose great risks
annual Swachh Survekshan awards for 2023. globally in 2023 and 2024.
 Indore holds the title of the cleanest city for the
seventh consecutive time. Key Highlights from the WEF Report
 Navi Mumbai secured the third position among  Misinformation and disinformation are the
the cleanest cities. biggest short-term risks highlighted in the
 Maharashtra tops the list of clean states, report.
followed by Madhya Pradesh and  Extreme weather events and critical changes
Chhattisgarh. to Earth’s systems like biodiversity loss are
 Top 10 cleanest cities with a population of over noted as the greatest long-term concerns.
one lakh include Greater Visakhapatnam, Bhopal,

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January 2024
 Cost-of-living crisis and the interlinked risks of  The report highlights the persisting cost-of-living
AI-enabled misinformation/disinformation and crisis as a major near-term concern. Rising prices,
societal polarization dominate the global risks debt distress, and disparate social impact of the
outlook for 2024. crisis risk fuelling political instability and unrest.
 With several live conflicts underway,  Policymakers need to balance measures to control
underlying geopolitical tensions and inflation with targeted relief for vulnerable groups
weakening societal resilience risk creating to maintain social cohesion, as per the WEF.
conflict contagion, the report warns.
 The survey for the report covered over 1400 Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss Long-term
global risk experts, industry heads and Threats
policymakers.  For the long run, the existential threats from
climate change and biodiversity loss dominate the
AI’s Misinformation Threatens Elections global risks outlook. The world is already
 The report notes that misinformation and witnessing more frequent and intense climate
disinformation spread by domestic and foreign shocks, as noted in the report.
actors will widen societal and political divides. This  Urgent climate mitigation and adaptation efforts
is especially concerning given major national are essential to prevent catastrophic outcomes,
elections lined up in 2023-24. the WEF stresses. Similarly, reversing nature loss
 Countries like the US, India, UK, Indonesia and through conservation and restoration initiatives is
Mexico will see over 3 billion people voting in vital for our collective future.
2023-24. In this backdrop, the widespread use of  The upcoming Davos dialogue will likely focus
misinformation and disinformation tools may extensively on these long-term environmental
undermine the legitimacy of newly elected risks. The talks this year are also expected to be
governments, the WEF cautions.
shaped by ongoing military conflicts and
 Misinformation refers to incorrect information while geopolitical tensions.
disinformation is false information spread to
deceive people. The report warns that advanced AI Henley Passport Index 2024
can make it challenging to spot fake content.
 The Henley Passport Index 2024 was released,
Mitigating the Risks of Misinformation highlighting the "power" of passports of 199
 To mitigate the risks of AI-enabled misinformation countries.
campaigns, the report suggests:  The index, which ranks countries based on the
 Increasing societal resilience through number of destinations that allow visa-free entry to
renewed focus on critical thinking, media their passport, was topped by France, Germany,
literacy, and civic responsibility education Italy, Japan, Singapore and Spain.
 Governments collaborating with tech firms to  According to the latest ranking, India stands at
promote information integrity while respecting the 80th rank in the list of most powerful
digital rights passports. Its passport has visa-free access to 62
 Fostering international cooperation for early
nations, including Angola, Barbados, Bhutan,
identification and containment of
Bolivia, Djibouti, El Salvador, Jamaica, Jordan,
misinformation campaigns
Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Nepal, Qatar and
Zimbabwe.
Cost-of-Living Crisis Causing Instability
 India shares the rank with Uzbekistan.
Least powerful passports in the world
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The least powerful passport in the world is  Analysis of insect-eating tropical bird data
Afghanistan. It ranked at 104th spot with access to collected over 10 years showed logging is
28 countries. It is followed by Syria (103), Iraq pushing smaller species to higher cooler
(102), Pakistan (101) and Yemen (100). elevations due to hotter temperatures while larger
 The United Arab Emirates was the fastest climber birds declined in logged forests.
over the past decade, jumping to 11th place and Dwindling Resources and Increasing
offering access to 183 destinations without a visa. Competition
China, up two spots this year to 62nd place, has  According to the new study, logged forests have
visa-free access to 85 destinations — almost twice fewer insects vital for bird diets and higher average
temperatures coupled with lower humidity makes
as many as ten years ago.
these disturbed habitats inhospitable for many
birds.
Larger Species Most Threatened
 Large birds need more energy and are suffering
disproportionate declines in degraded forests
unable to meet their ecological needs, unlike
smaller adaptable species better colonizing such
emerging niches.
Undisturbed Forests Critical for Conservation
 The findings thus underscore the critical
importance of preserving intact old-growth forests
to mitigate biodiversity threats from logging and
provide climate migration pathways to species
forced to shift habitats due to rising heat.
Unraveling Complex Ecological Changes
 As each bird occupies specific niches in tropical
mountains harboring exceptionally high diversity,
the study unravels the complex ecological
transformations catalyzed by human activities like
unsustainable logging.
Proposal for Protecting Climate Refugia
 Experts suggest that to aid climate adaptation,
wildlife managers should prioritize conserving old-
growth forests across extensive elevation
gradients. This allows temperature-sensitive fauna
to keep shifting uwards as lowlands get hotter.
Research reveals climate change, logged forests Respecting Nature’s Boundaries
force tropical mountain birds to higher  With tropical mountain ecosystems extremely
elevations vulnerable even to slight changes, maintaining
adequate forest cover and combating regional
 An IISc research investigating impacts of warming is vital so species aren’t pushed over the
logging and climate change on biodiversity- brink by humanity’s unsparing ecological footprint.
rich tropical mountain forests has revealed
intriguing ecological shifts.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Uttar Pradesh among top three states for MSMEs  It discussed the activities students are
with 9% national share: CBRE-CREDAI report engaged in, their basic and applied reading
and maths abilities and digital awareness and
 Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, ranks skills.
among the top three contributors to the MSME  Overall, 86.8% of 14- to 18-year-olds are
sector with a 9% share in total registered MSMEs
enrolled in an educational institution.
in the country.
 The percentage of youth not enrolled is 3.9%
 As of January 8, 2.21 crore MSMEs are registered,
for 14-year-old youth and is 32.6% for 18-
with Maharashtra leading at 38.09 lakh (17.2%
year-olds.
share), followed by Tamil Nadu (10%) and Uttar Basic abilities
Pradesh (9.4%).  On abilities such as basic reading, maths and
 Other top destinations include Rajasthan with 16 English abilities; application of basic skills to
lakh and Gujarat with 15.96 lakh registered everyday calculations; reading and
MSMEs. understanding written instructions; and
 Policy initiatives supporting the MSME ecosystem financial calculations that need to be done in
real life, about 25% still cannot read a Class 2
in Uttar Pradesh include a 50% interest subsidy
for micro units capped at Rs 25 lakh, annual level text fluently in their regional language.
infrastructure interest subsidy for approved  “More than half struggle with division (3-digit by
projects with 10 acres or more, and 100% stamp 1-digit) problems. Only 43.3% of 14-18-year-olds
duty exemption in select regions. are able to do such problems correctly. This skill
 The Udyam scheme played a significant role in is usually expected in Standard III/IV,” the
Uttar Pradesh, with cities like Agra, Kanpur, report said.
Varanasi, Lucknow, Meerut, and Ghaziabad  A little over half can read sentences in English
leading in enrollment. (57.3%). “Of those who can read sentences in
 The MSME sector, strategically positioning itself English, almost three quarters can tell their
in rural areas, contributes to alleviating regional meanings (73.5%),” the report added.
disparities and promoting equitable income  Close to 90% of all youth have a smartphone in
distribution.
the household and know how to use it.
 The construction sector, contributing 8% to
GDP, presents a strategic opportunity for Land Ports Authority Releases Report on
Indian MSMEs. Gender-Inclusive Framework for Cross-Border
Over half of youth struggling with basic maths: Trade in India
ASER study  Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) released
a report on 'Engendering Land Ports in India'
 The Annual Status of Education Report in New Delhi.
(ASER), titled “Beyond Basics”, was released.
 The main objective of the report is to
 It involved a survey by the civil society develop a framework for gender inclusive
organisation Pratham among rural students cross border trade and tourism through land
aged 14 to 18. Ports in the country.
 The household survey, conducted in 28 districts  The report released is a step towards
across 26 States, assessed the foundational making a gender positive environment.
reading and arithmetic abilities of 34,745
students.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Land Ports Authority of India will implement during the National Board for Wildlife meeting held
the recommendation of the reports to make in New Delhi.
land Ports more gender neutral.  The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in
Learn Along: India (SPAI) Program is the first-ever scientific
About Land Port Authority exercise that reports Snow leopard population
Founded: 1 March 2012 of 718 individuals in India.
 The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is the
National Coordinator for this exercise that was
Military ranking 2024
carried out with support the support of all snow
leopard range states and two conservation
 India maintains its position as the world's fourth
partners, the Nature Conservation Foundation,
most powerful military according to the Global
Mysuru and WWF-India.
Firepower (GFP) 2024 report.
 The SPAI systematically covered over 70% of
 The top four global military powers remain
unchanged, with the United States leading, the potential snow leopard range in the
followed by Russia, China, and India. country, involving forest & wildlife staff,
researchers, volunteers, and contributions from
 The GFP ranking assesses military capabilities
knowledge partners.
based on factors like manpower, equipment,
resources, finances, and geography, producing a  Covering approximately 120,000km2 of crucial
PowerIndex (PwrIdx) score where a lower score Snow leopard habitat across the trans-Himalayan
indicates stronger military capabilities. region, including UTs of Ladakh and J & K, and
states such as Himachal Pradesh,
Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh,
Top 10 countries countries with the
the SPAI exercise was conducted from 2019 to
with the most least powerful
2023 using a meticulous two-step framework.
powerful militaries militaries in the world
in the world:  During the SPAI exercise, total efforts included:
1. United States 1. Bhutan 13,450 km of trails surveyed for recording Snow
leopard signs, while camera traps were deployed
2. Russia 2. Moldova
at 1,971 locations for 180,000 trap nights. The
3. China 3. Suriname
Snow leopard occupancy was recorded in 93,392
4. India 4. Somalia km2, with an estimated presence in 100,841 km2.
5. South Korea 5. Benin A total of 241 unique Snow leopards were
6. United Kingdom 6. Liberia photographed.
7. Japan 7. Belize  Based on data analysis, the estimated population
8. Turkey 8. Sierra Leone in different states are as follows:
9. Pakistan 9. Central African Republic 1. Ladakh (477),
10. Italy 10. Iceland 2. Uttarakhand (124),
3. Himachal Pradesh (51),
4. Arunachal Pradesh (36),
Bhupender Yadav releases the Status Report of
5. Sikkim (21),
Snow Leopards in India
6. Jammu and Kashmir (9).
 Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and
Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav released the  The report also mentions the need for
report on the Status of Snow leopards in India establishing a dedicated Snow Leopard Cell at

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
WII under the MoEFCC is proposed, with a

primary focus on long-term population monitoring, The most corrupt countries
supported by well-structured study designs and  Taking the bottom spots in the index are Somalia
consistent field surveys. (11), Venezuela (13), Syria (13), South Sudan
(13), and Yemen (16). These countries are all
India ranks 93 in Global Corruption Index affected by protracted crises, primarily armed
conflicts.
 Over two-thirds of the 180 ranked countries  Nicaragua (17), North Korea (17), Haiti (17),
scored below 50 on the scale, indicating a Equatorial Guinea (17), Turkmenistan (18), and
prevalence of corruption. Libya (18) are the subsequent lowest performers
 Transparency International unveiled the 2023 on the index.
Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), disclosing a
list of the world's most corrupt countries. Where does India stand?
 The report highlighted minimal progress in  In the CPI, India secured the 93rd position with
addressing public sector corruption, as the a score of 39, according to the Transparency
global average for CPI remained stagnant at 43 for International report.
the twelfth consecutive year.  India's overall score remained relatively stable,
as it was 40 in 2022, securing the 85th position.
 The CPI evaluates nations based on their
perceived levels of public sector corruption, Ministry of Education releases All India Survey
ranging from zero (highly corrupt) to 100 (very on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-2022
clean).
 Over two-thirds of the 180 ranked countries  The Ministry of Education, Government of India
releases All India Survey on Higher Education
scored below 50 on the scale, indicating a
(AISHE) 2021-2022.
prevalence of corruption. The CPI evaluates
nations based on their perceived levels of public  The Ministry has been conducting AISHE since
sector corruption, ranging from zero (highly 2011, covering all Higher Educational Institutions
(HEIs) in the country registered with AISHE
corrupt) to 100 (very clean).
collecting detailed information on different
 The report added, “According to the Rule of Law
parameters such as student enrollment, teachers,
Index, the world is experiencing a decline in the infrastructural information, etc.
functioning of justice systems.
Following are the key highlights of the survey:
The least corrupt countries

Student Enrolment
 For the sixth consecutive year, Denmark secures
 The total enrolment in higher education has
the top position on the index with a score of 90
increased to nearly 4.33 crore in 2021-22 from
due to its “well-functioning justice systems”.
4.14 crore in 2020-21. There has been an increase
 Following closely, Finland and New Zealand
of around 91lakh in the enrolment from 3.42
hold the second and third positions with scores
of 87 and 85, respectively. crore(26.5%) in 2014-15.
 This year, the top 10 countries on the index  The Female enrolment has increased to 2.07
include Norway (84), Singapore (83), Sweden (82), crore in 2021-22 from 2.01 crore in 2020-21.
Switzerland (82), the Netherlands (79), Germany There has been an increase of around 50lakh in
(78), and Luxembourg (78).

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
the female enrolment from 1.57 crore (32%) in  The GER of SC students has increased to 25.9
2014-15. in 2021-22 from 18.9 in 2014-15, while GER of
 The enrolment of SC students is 66.23 lakh in Female SC students has increased to 26 in 2021-
2021-22 as compared to 46.07lakh in 2014-15 (an 22 from 18.1 in 2014-15.
increase of 44%).  The GER of ST students has increased to 21.2
 The enrolment of SC Female students has in 2021-22 from 13.5 in 2014-15. The GER of
increased to 31.71 lakh in 2021-22 from 29.01 Female ST students has shown even more
lakh in 2020-21 and 21.02 lakh in 2014-15. There spectacular increase to 20.9 in 2021-22 from 12.2
has been an increase of 51% since 2014-15. in 2014-15.
 The enrolment of ST students has increased to  Gender Parity Index (GPI), the ratio of female
27.1 lakh in 2021-22 from 16.41lakh in 2014-15 (an GER to male GER is 1.01 in 2021-22.
increase of 65.2%)  As per response in AISHE 2021-22, about 78.9%
 In case of ST Female students, enrolment has of the total students are enrolled in
increased to 13.46 lakh in 2021-22 from 12.21 undergraduate level courses and 12.1% are
lakh in 2020-21 and 7.47 lakh in 2014-15. There enrolled in postgraduate level courses.
has been significant increase of 80% since2014- Number of Institutions
15.  The total number of Universities / University
 The enrolment of OBC students has also level institutions registered is 1,168, Colleges
increased to 1.63 crore in 2021-22 from 45,473 and Standalone Institutions 12,002.
1.13crore in 2014-15. There is a notable increase  In all, 341 Universities/University level
in OBC student enrolment since 2014-15 of around institutions have been established since 2014-15.
50.8 lakh (45%).  17 Universities (of which 14 are State Public
 In case of OBC Female students, enrolment has Universities) and 4,470 Colleges are exclusively
increased to 78.19 lakh in 2021-22 from 52.36 for women.
lakh in 2014-15. There is an overall increase of Faculty
49.3% in OBC female Student enrolment since  The total number of faculty/teachers in 2021-22
2014-15. are 15.98 lakh, of which about 56.6% are male and
 The Minority Student enrolment has increased 43.4% are female.
to 30.1 lakh in 2021-22 from 21.8 lakh in 2014-15  Female faculty/teachers have increased to 6.94
(an increase of 38%). Female Minority Student lakh in 2021-22 from 5.69 lakh in 2014-15 (an
enrolment has increased to 15.2 lakh in 2021-22 increase of 22% since 2014-15)
from 10.7 lakh in 2014-15 (42.3% increase).  There is a marginal betterment of female per
 The total Student Enrolment in North East 100 male faculty from 75 in 2020-21 to 77 in
States is 12.02 lakh in 2021-22 as compared to 2021-22.
9.36 lakh in 2014-15. The female enrolment in
North East States is 6.07 lakh in 2021-22, higher States’ Startup Ranking 2022
than the male enrolment of 5.95 lakh.
 GER has increased to 28.4 in 2021-22 from 23.7  Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu
in 2014-15 [as per 2011 population projections for emerged as the best performers among large
18-23 years age group]. Female GER has states in the ‘States’ Startup Ranking 2022’
increased to 28.5 in 2021-22 from 22.9 in 2014-15.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
released by the Department for Promotion of  A low tax-to-GDP ratio indicates that a
Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). significant part of the country’s economic activity
 This was the fourth edition of the awards and is untaxed and that there are fewer actors
saw participation from 33 states and union contributing to the tax revenue.
territories.  The data further showed that direct taxes
 The states and union territories were ranked collected is estimated to be Rs 16.6 lakh crore
based on their performance on seven reform in FY23, or 54.6 percent of the total tax
areas and 25 action points. collections of Rs 30.45 lakh crore, signifying
 The participating states were divided into two that more than half of the country’s taxes are
categories – those with a population of above 1 coming from direct taxes — the main being
Cr and those with less than it. corporate tax and personal income tax.
 Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, and
Telangana were named the top performers in Top 10 most anticipated drug launches of 2024
category A states (states with population more
 Globally, big pharma revenues have grown by
than 1 crore), while Andhra Pradesh, Assam,
more than half a trillion dollars since 2012,
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and driven by an aging global population.
Uttarakhand were named leaders.
 American drugmakers make up the greatest
 Bihar and Haryana were named as aspiring market share worldwide by far, supported by
leaders, while Chhattisgarh, Delhi, and Jammu high prices in a less regulated market. Yet with
and Kashmir found a place in the list of emerging 190 drug patents expiring in the next decade,
ecosystems. many companies face steep revenue losses at
 In category B, which included states with less the hands of generic competitors.
than 1 Cr population, Himachal Pradesh was the  Together, the 50 biggest drugmakers make up
best performer. a combined $4.7 trillion in market capitalization.
 Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya were the  With a market cap of over $578 billion,
top performers in this category. American pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly is
 Goa, Manipur, and Tripura found a place in the the world’s most valuable, known for
list of leaders in this category, while Andaman and diabetes medications and its newly-launched
Nicobar Islands and Nagaland were crowned weight-loss drug.
aspiring leaders.  The average price of insulin in the U.S. is
more than five times higher than other
At 6.11%, India’s direct tax-to-GDP ratio in FY23 countries.
highest in 15 years, cost of collection down
1 Eli Lilly
 India’s direct tax-to-GDP (Gross Domestic $578.3B U.S.
Product) ratio, which reflects the share of taxes in
2 Novo $452.8B Denmark
the country’s overall economic output, reached a Nordisk
15-year high of 6.11 percent at the end of
3 Johnson & $377.7B U.S.
financial year 2022-2023, according to time-
Johnson
series data released by the Central Board of
Direct Taxes (CBDT) Tuesday. 4 Merck $263.9B U.S.
 The previous highest direct taxes-to-GDP ratio
was 6.3 percent in 2007-08. 5 AbbVie $261.2B U.S.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
6 Roche $222.4B Switzerland 9 Pfizer $181.3B U.S.
7 AstraZeneca $212.2B UK 10 Amgen $152.0B U.S.
8 Novartis $201.1B Switzerland
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
POEM-3 Mission achieves all its Payload (CGSSC), Hydrocarbon Sector Skill Council
objectives (HSSC) and Life Sciences Sector Skill
Development Council (LSSSDC). The MoU
 POEM-3, the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module- envisages to create an enabling environment for
3, India’s unique inexpensive space platform CSIR and Indian industry.
using the spent PS4 stage of the PSLV-C58  CSIR launched a national-level unique Program
vehicle that launched XPoSat on January 1, “CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative” in 2016 to equip
2024, has successfully achieved all its young minds with the necessary technological
objectives. skills through exposure to CSIR laboratories and
 After deploying the satellite into its intended orbit address the critical needs for the technical gap
at 650 km, the vehicle was lowered to 350 km created by the enormous usage of advanced
circular orbit to minimize the time of orbit technology.
decay after completion of the experiment.  Beneficiaries from this initiative includes
 It is a three-axis-attitude controlled platform school dropouts, farmers, ITI diploma holders,
with power generation and telecommand & graduates and doctorates.
telemetry capabilities, for supporting Payloads. Learn Along:
 By 25th day in orbit, POEM-3 completed 400 About CSIR
Director General: Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi
orbits. Its current orbit measures around 322 km
Founded: 26 September 1942
by 352 km.
 POEM-3 flew with nine Payloads from VSSC,
New 3-Drug Regimen for Leprosy Approved
PRL, Academia, and Space start-ups inducted
through IN-SPACe.  The Central government has approved a new
 After achieving all objectives, more experiments three-drug treatment regimen for leprosy
with POEM-3 are planned for generating data for patients, aiming to stop transmission of the
future missions including upcoming POEM disease in India by 2027.
configurations.  The National Leprosy Eradication Programme is
taking steps to introduce this new regimen
CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre consisting of dapsone, rifampicin and
signs MoUs with four Sector Skill Councils clofazimine.
 The new regimen will be implemented for all PB
 The CSIR-Human Resource Development leprosy patients from April 1, 2025 instead of
Centre (CSIR-HRDC), Ghaziabad (UP) signed a the current two-drug regimen given for 6 months.
collaborative Memorandum of Understanding  The aim is to eradicate leprosy in India by 2027,
(MoU) with M/s Agriculture Skill Council of India three years before the UN’s Sustainable
(ASCI), Capital Goods & Strategic Skill Council Development Goals target.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The introduction of this globally accepted  The satellite is likely to be launched on board
treatment protocol is a significant step towards the GSLV F14 next month.
stopping leprosy transmission across India. Learn Along:
About Leprosy About ISRO
 Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by Headquarters: Bengaluru Chairman: Sreedhara
Mycobacterium leprae bacteria which affects Somanath Founded: 15 August 1969
the skin and nerves.
Two New Eel Species Discovered
Nasa unveils quiet supersonic aircraft in effort to
revive commercial flights  Researchers at ICAR-National Bureau of Fish
Genetics Resources (ICAR-NBFGR) identify two
 NASA has unveiled the X-59, a quiet supersonic new congrid eel specimens off Kerala and
aircraft as part of the mission to enable Tamil Nadu coasts.
commercial supersonic flight.  The eels belong to the Ariosoma genus and
 The experimental aircraft is designed to fly at 1.4 were found off the Gulf of Mannar in Tamil
times the speed of sound (925mph) and Nadu and off the Kochi coast in Kerala.
features a thin, tapered nose to disperse shock  The newly discovered eels are named Ariosoma
waves and reduce sonic booms. kannani (found in the Gulf of Mannar) and
 The X-59 will undergo test flights later this Ariosoma gracile (found off the Kerala coast).
year, followed by quiet supersonic flights,  Eels, classified as Anguilliformes, have
collecting public feedback on sound in various US received limited research attention in India, and
cities. NBFGR is leading exploratory surveys from the
 Commercial supersonic travel over land has Himalayas to the Lakshadweep islands.
been banned in the US for 50 years due to  The new species from Kochi, Kerala coast, is
concerns over explosive sonic booms. distinguished by longer tail, dorsal-fin above
 The X-59 aims to demonstrate a soft thump pectoral-fin base, and specific tooth
instead of a sonic boom, and data collected will characteristics.
be used to evaluate the acceptability of the sound,
potentially leading to lifting the ban. Science Ministry announces first recipients of
Learn Along: ‘Vaibhav’ fellows
About NASA
Founded: 29 July 1958 Headquarters:  The Department of Science and Technology
Washington, D.C., United States (DST) announces the first batch of 'Vaibhav'
fellows, a scheme to attract Indian-origin
INSAT-3DS satellite sent to launch port in scientists abroad for short-term collaboration.
Sriharikota
 Twenty-two scientists from North American
and European institutes, including California
 The Indian Space Research Organisation
Institute of Technology, University of Oxford, and
(ISRO) announced that the INSAT-3DS satellite
University of Michigan, will spend up to three
has been flagged off to the launch port at the years at Indian institutions.
Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
 Host institutions include Indian Institute of
 The satellite is an exclusive meteorological Science, Indian Institutes of Technology,
satellite with the primary objective to provide Indian Institutes of Science, Education and
continuity of services to the existing in-orbit INSAT- Research, and Tata Institute of Fundamental
3D and 3DR satellites and significantly enhancing Research.
the capabilities of the INSAT system.  Two 'distinguished fellowships' offered to senior
professors Arogyaswami Paulraj (Stanford
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
University) and Jitendra Malik (University of evasive species, the Mahabali frog or the purple
California, Berkeley). frog, around 2015.
 Fellows will receive a stipend of ₹4 lakh per
month, accommodation, and research grant for IISF 2023 Presents the New Age Technology
host institutions to enable collaborative projects Show
and technology start-ups.
 Vaibhav fellows expected to build long-term  India International Science Festival (IISF) is
research connections, collaborate with host going to present the New Age Technology
faculty, and bring new ideas to Indian university Show set to take place at the DBT-THSTI-RCB
and research settings. Campus in Faridabad, Haryana, from the 17th to
 The scheme, initiated in June 2023, aims to the 20th of January 2024.
involve the Indian diaspora closely to further  The New Age Technology Show promises an
India's development, similar to the Visiting immersive experience, featuring exciting
Advanced Joint Research Faculty (Vajra) scheme. sessions on 5G and 6G Communication
Technologies, hands-on training on Drones,
 Vaibhav emphasizes translational outcomes in
critical areas of science and research identified interactive talks on Robotics, and much more.
by the government for development. Key Highlights of the event:
 5G and 6G Communication Technologies:
Kangaroo lizard species discovered in Western Explore the evolution of communication
Ghats technologies and delve into the future of
connectivity with expert-led sessions.
 The biodiverse forests of the Western Ghats have  Hands-on Drone Training: Experience the thrill of
thrown up yet another marvel of evolution — a
drone technology first-hand with hands-on training
new species of tiny lizards, which researchers
sessions led by industry professionals.
have described as “diminutive dragon”.
 Interactive Talk on Robotics: Engage with
 Agasthyagama edge or northern kangaroo lizard,
which belongs to the Agamidae family, is thought leaders and experts in the field of robotics,
gaining insights into the latest advancements and
known to have a maximum snout-vent length of
future possibilities.
4.3 cm.
Learn Along:
 A group of scientists from various institutions in About ISSF
India and abroad have discovered the new
 The Indian Institute of Science Festival (IISF) is a
species from the southern Western Ghats at prestigious event that celebrates India's scientific
Kulamavu in Kerala’s Idukki. achievements and technological advancements.
 The species is the second one of the  With a focus on fostering scientific curiosity and
Agasthyagama genus after A. beddomii or innovation, IISF brings together experts, researchers,
Indian kangaroo lizard that has been previously and enthusiasts to showcase the nation's prowess in
reported from the Sivagiri hills in Tamil Nadu. the realm of science and technology.
 A reduced fifth toe makes these reptiles poor
climbers and hence do not climb trees like other I-STEM to launch Samavesha project on January
lizards. 16 at IISc Bengaluru to connect researchers with
labs and equipment
 Instead, they are mostly terrestrial and found
in areas with dense leaf litter cover.
 I-STEM (Indian Science, Technology, and
 According to the study’s lead author Sandeep
Engineering facilities Map) is launching the
Das, a Science and Engineering Research
Samavesha project at IISc., Bengaluru, on
Board (SERB) national post-doctoral fellow at
Calicut University, the species was first sighted January 16 to enhance research collaboration
during an expedition in search of another
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
in India by enhancing accessibility to facilities

and labs. Big Bug Bang: Millions of insects to come out of
 I-STEM, an initiative of the Office of Principal Earth in rare 'double cicada explosion'
Scientific Advisor, Government of India, is
planning to conduct around 50 Samavesha  A rare event of a double cicada emergence is
across India in 2024. expected in the U.S. this year, involving Brood XIII
 The project targets connecting researchers and Brood XIX, occurring simultaneously after 221
with scientific institutes through an online years.
portal.  Cicadas typically emerge every 13 or 17 years,
 The vision of I-STEM is to create a future but this year, both broods will emerge together,
where one million new-age researchers, last observed in 1803, coinciding with the
Louisiana Purchase.
brimming with ideas, are seamlessly connected to
 Cicadas spend their early stages underground
a network of 10,000 cutting-edge labs across
and emerge in millions for food and mating.
India.
 Brood XIX emerges every 13 years, and Brood XIII
 The key impact envisaged from Samavesha:
emerges every 17 years.
 Increased indigenous product
 The joint emergence of Brood XIII and Brood XIX
innovation: Collaborative synergy is will occur in Iowa and Illinois, with Brood XIII
expected to significantly boost innovation also appearing in various other states.
 Knowledge Exchange  The synchronized emergence of cicadas
Ecosystem: SAMAVESHA seeks to create a involves dramatic coordination, with all cicadas
thriving knowledge exchange of the same brood emerging, flying, mating,
environment, driving research and shedding exoskeletons, creating a mess, and
development dying simultaneously.
 National Advancements: Breaking down  Cicadas live for about four to six weeks, during
access barriers, the event aspires to make which they feed, mate, lay eggs, and eventually
India a hub for ground-breaking discoveries die.
and homegrown advancements  The next joint cicada emergence is projected to
happen in the year 2445, making this a once-in-
Rare Tibetan Brown Bear Discovered in Sikkim a-lifetime event.
 In the first-ever confirmed record of the Tibetan Microsoft launches program AI Odyssey to
brown bear (Ursus arctos pruinosus) in India, upskill 100,000 Indian developers in AI
camera traps installed by the Sikkim Forest
Department and WWF-India recorded this rare  Microsoft has announced the launch of an
initiative called AI Odyssey to train 100,000
species in the high-altitudes of North Sikkim.
developers in India in AI tools and applications.
 This discovery adds a new subspecies to the
mammal diversity of the country.  The month-long program is open to all AI
enthusiasts regardless of their background or
 Over the last many decades during interactions
experience in the industry.
with the Dokpas - the nomadic herders from the
high-altitude areas of Tso Lhamo plateau and
First US lunar lander since 1972 launched
Muguthang, there was always a mention of a
large unidentified animal stealing sugar and oil
 A private US spacecraft, part of NASA's
stored in the herder camps.
Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS)
 This creature, due to its elusive nature, has also initiative, aims to become the first US
inspired the folklore of the Yeti across the
spacecraft to land on the Moon in over 50 years.
Himalayas.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The Peregrine lander module and Vulcan rocket WHO lanuches ICD-11, Traditional Medicine
for the mission were built by private US space Module 2
companies, part of NASA's strategy to involve
the private sector in its Artemis program.  The World Health Organization (WHO) launched
 The mission includes five NASA payloads in the the ICD 11, Traditional Medicine Module 2.
Peregrine lander, with exploratory activities  The data and terminology of Ayurveda, Siddha,
planned, including water detection and the and Unani Medicine are included in the WHO
deployment of instruments like the Laser
ICD-11 classification.
Retroreflector Array.
 The Ministry of AYUSH, in collaboration with
 The spacecraft, developed by Astrobotic WHO, prepared a disease classification for
Technology, is expected to land on the Moon on
Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems under TM-
February 23, with some payloads remaining active
2 module of ICD-11.
for ten days after landing.
 A Donor Agreement between WHO and the
 The Artemis program, aimed at returning
Ministry of AYUSH was signed for this
humans to the Moon, involves collaboration with
the private sector through the CLPS initiative, with classification.
this launch being the first under the program.  The effort aims to strengthen India's healthcare
Learn Along: system, research, Ayush insurance coverage,
About NASA research & development, and policy making.
Founded: 29 July 1958, United States Learn Along:
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States About WHO
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland Founded: 7
Nasa launches Peregrine lander to explore April 1948 Director-General: Tedros Adhanom
Moon's 'Bay of Stickiness' Ghebreyesus
Indian delegation visits Hawaii to discuss

 A private company, Astrobotic Technology,
progress of TMT
launched the Peregrine Lunar Lander aboard
the United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket for
a mission to explore the Moon.  An Indian delegation led by Secretary
Department of Science and Technology (DST)
 The Peregrine Lunar Lander, standing 1.9
Professor Abhay Karandikar visited Mauna Kea,
meters tall and spanning 2.5 meters, is part of Hawaii, USA and discussed challenges in the
NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services progress of Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT)
(CLPS) initiative.
project and ways to overcome them.
 Peregrine Mission 1 aims to transport five  Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a 30-meter
payloads to the Moon, targeting the Sinus
diameter primary mirror optical and infrared
Viscositatis region near the Oceanus
telescope being established at Mauna Kea,
Procellarum.
Hawaii, USA.
 The scientific goals include analyzing the lunar
 India is a Founder-Member Partner in this
exosphere, assessing thermal properties and
hydrogen content of the lunar regolith, project which aims to open new windows to the
studying magnetic fields, examining the universe through optical and infrared
radiation environment, and testing advanced astronomy.
solar arrays.  Indian participation in this project was approved
 Peregrine Mission 1 will carry approximately by Union Cabinet in 2014.
ten payloads with a total mass capacity of 90
kilograms, featuring instruments such as the NTPC Green Energy Ltd. signs MoUs with GSPC
Laser Retro-Reflector Array and Neutron and GPPL during Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit
Spectrometer System.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 NTPC Green Energy Ltd (NGEL) has entered into stronger and ecofriendly national highways in the
MoUs with Gujarat State Petroleum country.
Corporation Ltd. (GSPC) and Gujarat Pipavav  JSW Steel, under the CSIR-CRRI technological
Port Ltd. (GPPL) during the three-day Vibrant guidance, has constructed the 1 km long four
Gujarat Global Summit 2024, being held in lane steel slag road section on Indapur-Panvel
Gandhinagar during January 10 – 12, 2024. Section of NH-66 Mumbai-Goa.
 The MoU with Gujarat State Petroleum
Corporation Ltd. aims for the blending of Green State-of-art AI supported Telemedicine Mobile
Hydrogen in the gas networks of GSPC and Clinic launched for remote hilly areas in
promotion of Green Hydrogen mobility by Udhampur
setting up Green Hydrogen fuelling stations in
Gujarat.  Union Minister of State (Independent Charge)
 The MoU with Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd. aims to Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel,
develop a green hydrogen ecosystem Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and
including production of green ammonia for Space, Dr Jitendra Singh launched state-of-the-
export and the domestic market, at the land art, Artificial Intelligence (AI) supported
provided by GPPL. Telemedicine Mobile Clinic "Aarogya-Doctors
 It also aims to explore the development of on Wheels" for remote hilly areas of Ramnagar
Pipavav Port as an anchor port by NGEL for region in Udhampur district of J&K.
exploration, development and operations of  The latest upgraded Tele Clinic is Artificial
offshore wind farms in Gujarat. The MoU was Intelligence-driven to provide healthcare
exchanged between GM-Hydrogen, NTPC and facilities in far flung areas of the region, where
MD of APM Terminals, Pipavav. such facilities are either not available or
Learn Along: inadequately available.
 Formed on 7th October 2020 NTPC Renewable
Energy Ltd. (NTPCREL) is a wholly owned subsidiary IISF 2023 presents Vigyanika, the science
of the NTPC Limited (India’s largest Power Utility). literature festival
 NTPCREL has been formed with an objective to
accelerate the Renewable Energy growth of the  The India International Science Festival, IISF
Company and increase the green footprint across 2023, is organizing Vigyanika, a science
country, Offshores and overseas. literature festival, to showcase India's scientific
 Chairman: Gurdeep Singh achievements and enhance communication of
S&T advancements.
India’s First National Highway Steel Slag Road  The event will take place on January 18th and
section on NH- 66 Mumbai-Goa National Highway 19th, 2024, at the Regional Centre for
inaugurated Biotechnology (RCB) – Translational Health
Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) campus
 Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member (S&T), NITI AAYOG in Faridabad, Haryana.
inaugurated India’s First National Highway  Coordinating organizations for Vigyanika 2023
Steel Slag Road section on NH- 66 Mumbai-Goa include CSIR-National Institute of Science
National Highway. Communication and Policy Research
 The Steel Slag Road Technology, developed by (NIScPR), National Innovation Foundation-
CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR- India (NIF), and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA).
CRRI) is transforming the waste of steel industries
into wealth and is helping the National Rare Tibetan Brown Bear Discovered in Sikkim
Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to build

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Camera traps installed by the Sikkim Forest  A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed
Department and WWF-India confirmed the between ISRO and Mauritius Research and
presence of the Tibetan brown bear (Ursus Innovation Council (MRIC) on November 01,
arctos pruinosus) in the high-altitudes of North 2023.
Sikkim, marking the first-ever record of this rare  The Focus is on cooperation for the
species in India. development of a Joint Small Satellite.
 The discovery adds a new subspecies to the  The collaboration includes participation of
mammal diversity of the country. Indian industries in developing subsystems
 The Tibetan brown bear is an omnivore, distinct for the joint satellite.
from the more commonly found Himalayan  It aims to ensure continuous support from the
Black Bear in appearance, habitat, and Mauritius Government for ISRO/India’s ground
behavior, inhabiting high-altitude alpine station in Mauritius, crucial for launch vehicle and
forests, meadows, and steppe above 4000 m. satellite missions.
 The species is accorded the highest protection  The Estimated cost for the joint satellite
status under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, realization is Rs.20 crore, funded by the
and listed in Appendix I of CITES. Government of India.
 The discovery highlights the ecological  Implementation schedule aims to complete the
richness and diversity of the Sikkim region, satellite realization in 15 months.
igniting excitement among researchers and nature
lovers. NHPC signs MoU with GPCL, Govt. of Gujarat; to
invest ~ Rs. 4,000 crores in proposed 750 MW
ISRO tests fuel cell-based power system in space Kuppa Pumped Hydro Storage Project
 The Indian Space Research Organisation  NHPC signed an MoU with Gujarat Power
(ISRO) has successfully tested a 100 W-class Corporation Limited for the 750 MW Kuppa
Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell- Pumped Hydro Storage Project.
based Power System (FCPS) in its orbital  NHPC's investment in the project is estimated at
platform, POEM3, which was launched on board Rs. 4000 crores, located in Chhota Udaipur,
PSLV-C58 on January 1. Gujarat.
 The FCPS payload is significant as it has  The collaboration aims to utilize pumped hydro
potential applications in India’s space station storage projects as a solution for energy
which is proposed to come up by 2035. storage.
Learn Along:  The project, signed under the "Vibrant Gujarat"
About ISRO initiative, anticipates generating significant
Headquarters: Bengaluru Chairman: employment and boosting the local economy.
Sreedhara Somanath Founded: 15 August  The agreement supports the national goal of
1969 achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity
by 2030 and a "Net Zero" target by 2070.
Cabinet approves Memorandum of
 NHPC Limited is a leading Indian hydropower
Understanding between Indian Space Research
company with a total installed capacity of
Organization (ISRO) and Mauritius Research and
7,097.2 MW of renewable energy.
Innovation Council (MRIC) concerning Learn Along:
cooperation on the development of a Joint Small About NHPC
Satellite  NHPC Ltd. (Formerly known as National Hydroelectric
Power Corporation Ltd.) was incorporated in 1975
under Companies Act, 1956.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 CMD: Rajeev Kumar Vishnoi

India is now part of world’s largest radio
Named after their habitats, three new frogs add telescope project
to Arunachal’s biodiversity
 India joins the Square Kilometre Array
 Three new frog species have been discovered Observatory (SKAO), a mega project for celestial
in the Namdapha-Kamlang landscape of observation.
Arunachal Pradesh, India.  India's involvement in SKA dates back to the
 The discoveries highlight the biodiversity of 1990s, with Pune-based NCRA contributing
Namdapha National Park, considered the actively.
northernmost limit of the world's tropical rainforest,
 SKA Organisation (SKAO) established in 2021 as
and its elevational diversity gradient ranging from
an intergovernmental organization with India's
100 to 5000 meters.
participation.
 The new frogs include Gracixalus patkaiensis, a
 India's recent approval and financial
transparent green frog found in the forest
commitment of Rs 1,250 crore mark the initial
understory, Alcalus fontinalis, a brown dwarf frog
step to join SKAO.
living in fast-flowing streams, and Nidirana
 India's role includes developing and operating
noadihing, a "music frog" discovered in marshy
the Telescope Manager, the software
areas along the Noa-Dihing river.
orchestrating the telescope's functions.
 Naming species after their habitats, as seen in
 Global participation in SKA includes countries
these discoveries, enhances local community
like the UK, Australia, South Africa, Canada,
involvement and can aid conservation efforts. China, France, Italy, and Germany.
 The project aims to push the boundaries of
SpaceX’s Falcon-9 to launch India’s GSAT-20 astronomical observations for a profound
comprehension of the universe.
 NewSpace India Ltd. (NSIL), ISRO's commercial
arm, plans to launch GSAT-20 on SpaceX's ISRO successfully launches PSLV-C58 XPoSat
Falcon-9 in Q2 2024. mission
 GSAT-20 is a 4,700 kg Ka-band satellite fully
owned, operated, and funded by NSIL.  ISRO successfully launched the PSLV-C58 X-ray
 The satellite offers pan-India coverage with 32 Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) mission on
beams, including remote regions like Andaman January 1, 2024.
and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.  The PSLV-C58, in its 60th mission, lifted off
 GSAT-20 provides high-throughput capacity of from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in
nearly 48 Gbps, designed for remote and Sriharikota and placed XPoSat into a 650 km orbit
unconnected areas. with a six-degree inclination.
 GSAT-24, NSIL's first demand-driven mission,  XPoSat is ISRO's first dedicated scientific
was successfully launched in June 2022, fully satellite for space-based polarization
funded by NSIL. measurements of X-ray emission from celestial
 Falcon-9, by SpaceX, is a reusable, two-stage sources.
rocket designed for safe transport of people and  It carries two payloads: POLIX (Polarimeter
payloads into Earth orbit and beyond. Instrument in X-rays) developed by the Raman
Learn Along: Research Institute and XSPECT (X-ray
About ISRO Spectroscopy and Timing) by the Space
Headquarters: Bengaluru Chairman: Sreedhara
Astronomy Group of URSC, Bengaluru.
Somanath Founded: 15 August 1969

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The successful launch makes India the second  The spacecraft is in a periodic halo orbit
nation to send an observatory for studying approximately 1.5 million km from Earth on the
astronomical sources like black holes and Sun-Earth line.
neutron stars.  The orbit selection minimizes station-keeping
 XPoSat is only the second X-ray polarimetry maneuvers, fuel consumption, and ensures a
mission globally, following NASA's Imaging X- continuous view of the Sun.
ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) launched in 2021.  Aditya-L1 carries seven payloads to observe
Learn Along: the photosphere, chromosphere, and the
About ISRO sun's outermost layer (corona).
Founded: 15 August 1969 Hedquarters :
 The satellite will orbit around L1 in an
Bengaluru Chairman: S. Somanath
irregularly shaped orbit, perpendicular to the
Earth-Sun line.
UP to build India’s first AI city in Lucknow
 Aditya-L1 has a mission life of five years,
 Uttar Pradesh plans to build India's first AI city providing crucial information on various solar
in Lucknow to house and promote the AI phenomena.
ecosystem. Learn Along:
About Lagrange point
 The global AI market size is estimated at $137
 According to the ISRO, for a two-body gravitational
billion in 2022, with a projected CAGR of 37.3%
system, the Lagrange Points are the positions in space
from 2023 to 2030. where a small object tends to stay, if put there. These
 Lucknow already hosts Centres of Excellence points in space for a two-body system such as sun and
in AI and MedTech, supporting over 15 AI/ML earth can be used by the spacecraft to remain at these
startups. positions with reduced fuel consumption. For two-body
 The AI city aims to integrate technology, gravitational systems, there are total five Lagrange
research centers, and educational institutions points, denoted as L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5.
to nurture ideas and future workforce. About The L1 point
 The L1 lies between the sun-earth line which is about
 Financial incentives include one-time Capex
1.5 million km from the earth. The distance of L1 from
support, stamp duty exemption, and other
earth is approximately 1% of the earth-sun distance. A
benefits as per IT and ITeS Policy, 2022.
satellite placed in the halo orbit around the L1 point has
 Uttar Pradesh aims to become a $1 trillion the major advantage of continuously viewing the sun
economy in the next 5 years, identifying IT and without any occultation/eclipse. This will provide a
ITeS as core sectors. greater advantage of observing the solar activities
Learn Along: continuously.
About Uttar Pradesh
Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath Governor:  There are currently four operational spacecraft at L1
Anandiben Patel Capital: Lucknow which are WIND, Solar and Heliospheric
Observatory (SOHO), Advanced Composition
ISRO’s Aditya-L1 successfully placed in a halo Explorer (ACE) and Deep Space Climate
orbit around L1 point Observatory (DSCOVER).
 Aditya-L1 spacecraft placed in a halo orbit Google DeepMind introduces mobile ALOHA
humanoid system
around Lagrangian point (L1) by ISRO.
 It reached L1 point on January 6, 127 days after  Stanford University has introduced Mobile
the September 2, 2023 launch. ALOHA, an innovative system for learning
 The halo orbit insertion involved a firing bimanual mobile manipulation through low-
maneuver by ISRO scientists at ISTRAC in cost whole-body teleoperation.
Bengaluru.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 This robotics technology addresses the incorporating a mobile base and a whole-body
limitations of traditional imitation learning teleoperation interface, making it capable of
from human demonstrations, which often imitating complex mobile manipulation tasks.
focus on tabletop manipulation without the  The system’s primary purpose is data
necessary mobility and dexterity for real-world collection, allowing it to learn and replicate
applications. various bimanual activities.
 Provided by Google Deepmind, Mobile ALOHA
expands upon the existing ALOHA system by
DEFENCE
IDEX- DIO to participate in the upcoming tenth
edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurates first
all-girls Sainik School at Vrindavan, Uttar
 Innovations for Defence Excellence- Defence Pradesh
Innovation Organization (iDEX-DIO) is all set to
 Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated
participate in the tenth edition of the Vibrant
Samvid Gurukulam Girls Sainik School in
Gujarat Summit 2024 from 10 to 12 January
Vrindavan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh on January 1,
2024 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
2024.
 An iDEX Pavilion is being set up based on the
 It is the first all-girls Sainik School, part of the
theme of the Summit ‘Gateway to the Future’,
initiative to establish 100 new Sainik Schools in
wherein the iDEX innovators will be exhibiting
partnership with NGOs, private entities, and
their futuristic technologies in the field of
state government schools in all states/union
Unmanned Solutions, Artificial Intelligence,
Cyber Security, Advance Material, etc. territories.
 The leading defence startups/MSMEs of iDEX  The school has approximately 870 students,
contributing to the goal of setting up 100 new
will be showcasing their cutting-edge
Sainik Schools; 42 have been established, in
solutions at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade addition to the existing 33 under the erstwhile
Show 2024 during the Global Summit. pattern.
 The Trade Show will spotlight ‘TECHADE and  The initiative aims to provide quality education
Disruptive Technologies’ and feature the in line with the National Education Policy 2020,
Champion Services Sector, emphasizing Digital offering better career opportunities, including
India initiatives, India Stack, and Emerging joining the Armed Forces.
Technologies including Industry 4.0, Smart
Manufacturing, and AI/ML, among others. Joint Military Exercise Desert Cyclone between
Learn Along India and UAE begins in Rajasthan
About iDEX
 iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence), the  The Joint Military Exercise 'Desert Cyclone 2024'
flagship scheme of the Ministry of Defence, Govt of between India and UAE will begin in Rajasthan.
India launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra
 The fortnight-long drill is aimed at enhancing
Modi in 2018.
 The objective of the scheme is to cultivate an interoperability by learning and sharing best
innovation ecosystem in the Defence and practices in urban operations.
Aerospace sector by collaborating with startups,  Potential areas of bilateral cooperation in the
innovators, MSMEs, incubators, and academia. defence field are the production and
 iDEX offers grants and support for R&D with development of defence equipment; joint
significant potential for future adoption in Indian exercises of armed forces, particularly naval
defence and aerospace. exercises; sharing of information on strategy and
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
doctrines; technical cooperation in respect of  The Ships collectively served for nearly 40
Intermediate Jet Trainer etc. years, covering about 17 lakh nautical miles and
 The first-ever India-UAE Joint Air Forces spending over 12,300 days at sea.
exercise took place in September 2008 at the  They Participated in maritime security
Al-Dhafra base in Abu Dhabi. missions, Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Relief operations, including Operation
Defence Ministry signs deals worth ₹802 crore Aman, Operation Tasha, and post-1997 cyclone
for Army relief.
Learn Along:
 The Defence Ministry signed two contracts About Indian Navy
estimated at ₹802 crore to procure military Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS): Admiral R. Hari Kumar
equipment for the Army.
 They include 697 bogie open military (BOM) Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh approves
wagons at a cost of ₹473 crore with Jupiter proposal to launch Group (Term) Insurance
Wagons Ltd. and 56 mechanical minefield Scheme for Casual Paid Labourers engaged by
marking equipment (MMME) Mark 2 at a cost of BRO
₹329 crore with Bharat Earth Movers Ltd. under
 Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has approved a
the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. proposal to launch a Group (Term) Insurance
Scheme for Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs)
Army adopts Topa Pir as model village after engaged by Border Roads Organisation/General
civilian deaths Reserve Engineer Force for the ongoing project
works.
 Indian Army initiates measures to engage with  This scheme will provide the insured value of
people in Pir Panjal valley, a new battleground in Rs 10 lakh as an insurance in any kind of death
Jammu and Kashmir. to CPLs family/Next of Kin.
 Topa Pir village adopted as a model village  It may be recalled that the Raksha Mantri had
under the Sadbhavana scheme. recently approved many welfare measures for
Learn Along: the betterment of the CPLs. These include:
About Sadbhavna Scheme · Preservation & transportation of mortal remains
 Operation Sadbhavana (Goodwill) is an unique and Transport Allowance entitlement of the
humane initiative undertaken by Indian Army in attendant.
the State of Jammu & Kashmir to address · Enhancement of Funeral Assistance from Rs
aspirations of people affected by scrooge of terrorism, 1,000 to Rs 10,000.
sponsored and abetted by Pakistan.
· Advance payment against ex-gratia compensation
of Rs 50,000 as immediate help in case of death
INS CHEETAH, GULDAR AND KUMBHIR
etc.
DECOMMISSIONED AFTER 40 YEARS OF
GLORIOUS SERVICE
LAUNCH OF 25T BOLLARD PULL TUG, BHISHM
 Indian Navy decommissions three ships, AT M/s TITAGARH RAIL SYSTEMS LTD,
Cheetah, Guldar, and Kumbhir, after four decades KOLKATA
of service.
 The Ships were built at Gdynia Shipyard,  25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, Bhishm was launched
Poland, commissioned in 1984, 1985, and by Cmde S Sreekumar, Warship Production
1986, served in Andaman and Nicobar Command. Superintendent (Kolkata) on 14 Jan 24 at M/s
Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (M/s TRSL), Kolkata.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 This Tug is a proud flag bearer of “Make in  The assault rifle has been designed for the
India” initiative of Govt of India. operational requirements of armed forces,
 Contract for construction and delivery of six paramilitary and state police entities.
25T BP Tugs was concluded with M/s TRSL,  The first operational prototype of the rifle, which
has been named Ugram, which means
Kolkata in consonance with “Aatmanirbhar
ferocious, was unveiled at the hands of Dr
Bharat” initiative of the Government of India. Shailendra V Gade, Director General, Armament
 These Tugs are being built under the and Combat Engineering Systems of the DRDO
classification rules of Indian Register of in Pune.
Shipping (IRS).  The rifle has an effective range of 500 metres
 The availability of Tugs will provide impetus to and weighs less than four kilograms and has
Operational commitments of IN by facilitating been developed by DRDO’s Pune-based facility
assistance to Naval ships and submarines Armament Research and Development
during berthing and un-berthing, turning and Establishments (ARDE) in collaboration with
manoeuvring in confined waters. Hyderabad-based Dvipa Armour India Private
Limited.
DRDO conducts successful flight test of Akash
missile
INDIAN AIR FORCE AN-32(K-2743)
 Defence Research and Development
 An Indian Air Force An-32 aircraft (registration
Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful
K-2743), had gone missing over the Bay of
flight-test of the New Generation AKASH
Bengal on 22 July 2016 during an op mission. 29
(AKASH-NG) missile from the Integrated Test
Personnel were on board this flight. Large scale
Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha on
Search and Rescue operations by aircraft and
January 12, 2024.
ships could not locate any missing personnel or
 The flight-test was conducted against a high- the aircraft debris.
speed unmanned aerial target at very low
 The National Institute of Ocean Technology
altitude. which functions under the aegis of the Ministry
 It has validated the functioning of the complete of Earth Sciences, had recently deployed an
weapon system consisting of the missile with Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) with
indigenously developed Radio Frequency Seeker, deep sea exploration capability at the last known
Launcher, Multi-Function Radar and Command, location of the missing An-32.
Control & Communication system.  This search was conducted at a depth of 3400
Learn Along: m using multiple payloads, including a multi-
About DRDO
beam SONAR (Sound Navigation and Ranging),
Formed: 1958 Secretary: Samir V Kamat
synthetic aperture SONAR and high resolution
photography.
DRDO launches ‘Ugram’, indigenous assault rifle  The search images were scrutinised and found to
for armed forces be conforming with an An-32 aircraft.
 This discovery at the probable crash site, with
 The Defence Research and Development no other recorded history of any other missing
Organisation (DRDO) launched Ugram, a state- aircraft report in the same area, points to the
of-the-art assault rifle of the 7.62 x 51 mm debris as possibly belonging to the crashed
IAF An-32 (K-2743).
calibre, which has been indigenously designed,
developed and manufactured in collaboration
with a private industry partner.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Indian Navy's P8I Aircraft Joins Exercise Sea Day parade will feature a Naval marching
Dragon-24 in Guam contingent of 144 men and women Agniveers.
 This mixed composition platoon, led by
 Indian Navy's P8I aircraf landed at Guam, a US Lieutenant Prajwal as Contingent Commander
island territory in Western Pacific, to participate and Lieutenant Mudita Goyal, Lieutenant
in Exercise Sea Dragon - 24. Sharvani Supreiya, and Lieutenant Devika H.,
 The exercise aims to enhance synergy and symbolizes the Navy’s commitment to gender
interoperability amongst participating navies neutrality.
from US, Australia, South Korea and Japan  The Republic Day parade will feature a triservice
through professional interactions on ground and in women marching contingent for the first time.
air.
 Recently, a woman officer was appointed as the
Commanding Officer of a warship for the first
Armed Forces Medical Services & AIIMS, New
time, breaking new ground for women in the Navy.
Delhi collaborate to conduct combined research
projects  The Navy’s 2024 tableau focuses on two
themes: 'Nari Shakti' (women in force) and
 Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) under indigenization.
the Ministry of Defence and All India Institute of  The central theme of the tableau highlights
Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi signed on 'Aatmanirbharta,' showcasing indigenous
Jan 10, 2024 a Memorandum of Understanding milestones, with 64 out of 66 ships and
(MOU) with objectives of collaboration in areas submarines under construction at Indian
of mutual interest, combined research and shipyards.
academic activities addressing multidisciplinary
scientific and technological issues. MAIDEN INDIAN NAVY – ROYAL THAI NAVY
 DGAFMS Lt Gen Daljit Singh & Director, AIIMS BILATERAL EXERCISE AND 36TH EDITION OF
Professor M Srinivas signed the MoU to explore INDO-THAI COORDINATED PATROL
possibilities of joint research projects,
common educational activities, and a faculty  The maiden Bilateral Maritime Exercise
exchange program. between the Indian Navy (IN) and Royal Thai
 The faculties of these two organizations would Navy (RTN) was conducted from 20 to 23
explore facilities available with both December 2023.
institutions, especially in investigations,
 Indigenously built Indian Naval ships Kulish
research, and patient care services. and IN LCU 56 participated in the inaugural
 A collaboration board of five members from edition of the exercise.
both institutions has been formed, which will  The 36th edition of India-Thailand
have monthly meetings to explore possible
Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) was
collaborations.
also conducted along with the maiden bilateral
exercise.
For the first time, Navy to have a mixed marching  The Indo-Thai Bilateral Exercise is being named
contingent at Republic Day parade as ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’, which literally translates to
‘The Invincible One’ or ‘Undefeatable’, and
 The Indian Navy has over 1,100 women symbolises the significance of two of the oldest
Agniveers in service, with the fourth batch cities Ayodhya in India and Ayutthaya in
currently undergoing training. Thailand, the historic legacies, rich cultural ties
 Women Agniveers are being recruited as and shared historical narratives dating back to
musicians and sportspersons, and the Republic several centuries.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 These projects include roads, bridges, and

Operation Sarvashakti Launched tunnels connecting remote areas with the rest
of the nation.
 The Indian Army is launching Operation  The overall focus is on promoting tourism,
Sarvashakti in Jammu and Kashmir to flush out generating employment opportunities, and
terrorists responsible for ambushes on addressing the concerns of large-scale migration
Indian troops.
from border areas.
 Security forces from both sides of the Pir Panjal
range, including the 15 Corps and 16 Corps, CDS Gen Anil Chauhan to inaugurate ninth
will participate in the operation. chapter of CAPSTAR – 9 on the theme ‘Artificial
 The operation is prompted by a series of Intelligence: Transforming Warfare’ in MILIT,
ambushes in areas of Rajouri and Poonch,
Pune
with intelligence inputs being collated and acted
upon.
 Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan will
 Operation Sarvashakti is modeled after inaugurate the prestigious ninth chapter of
Operation Sarpvinash in 2003, which lasted ‘Capsule on Science, Technology and Applied
three months and resulted in the elimination of
Research’ (CAPSTAR) at Military Institute of
nearly 100 terrorists.
Technology (MILIT), Pune on 17 January 2024.
 The focus of the operation is on locating
terrorists' hideouts in the dense jungles,  The three day CAPSTER – 09 will see the active
mountains, and caves in the Rajouri-Poonch participation from services, academia, DRDO
Labs and private defence industries.
area.
 The participation of major private firms such as
2024 is ‘Year of Technology Absorption’ for Bit Mapper, Gridbots Technologies, Dimension
NXG, PureID Ltd, Varshasookt Pvt Ltd,
Army
Nirmitee.io, Innefu Labs, Protech Solutions &
 The Indian Army has declared 2024 as the Services Ltd, Resonating Mindz, Edvantech
"Year of Technology Absorption" to leverage Solutions Ltd and academic institutions such
as IIT Indore, DIAT and others is aimed as an
in-house expertise for operational and logistical
initiative in policy making on AI for Armed Forces.
needs.
 The CAPSTER – 09 is being held as part of the
 Emphasis on collaborating with the domestic
12th Raising Day celebrations of MILIT which is
defence industry to accelerate technological
commemorated on 19 January every year.
advancements.
 Indian Army Initiated a mission to enhance
Indian Army’s technological evolution through
cyberspace capability, with personnel
MeitY collaboration
undergoing training and introducing SAMBHAV
project for secure mobile communication.
 Indian Army collaborates with the Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology
Raksha Mantri inaugurated 29 bridges & six
(MeitY) for digital transformation.
roads constructed by BRO across seven
States/Union Territories at a cost of Rs 670 crore  The collaboration focuses on integrating
cutting-edge technology and digital
 Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh dedicates 35 infrastructure into the Indian Army's operational
infrastructure projects of Border Roads capabilities.
Organisation (BRO) in Uttarakhand, worth Rs 670  India showcases prowess in indigenous 5G
solutions, establishing 5G labs, and Military
crore.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
College of Telecommunication Engineering globally with capability to manufacture Air-to-

becoming a 6G test bed. Air missiles.
 The Military College of Telecommunication  BDL had received an initial order of 300+ Astra
Engineering serves as a hub for AI research,
contributing innovations like advanced pattern missiles in May 2022. With this new clearance
recognition software for satellite imagery analysis. from govt, the company is set to receive further
 Projects like SRIJAN, Raksha Bhoomi, and large orders for Astra BVR missiles, which are
MISO demonstrate the Army's commitment to planned to be used on fighter jets like Tejas MK1A,
digital innovation, improving efficiency and upgraded Su-30MKI and upcoming fighter jets like
reducing costs. AMCA, TEDBF.
 'Project Shaurya Sankalan' is set to be launched
soon, focusing on preserving military history INS NIRUPAK DECOMMISSIONED AT
through technological means. VISAKHAPATNAM
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation  The Indian Navy's indigenously designed and built
inaugurates Cyber Security Operations Centre in survey ship, INS Nirupak, was decommissioned
Assam Rifles Headquarters at Shillong after 38 years of illustrious service to the nation,
at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on January
 Union Home Minister and Minister of 29, 2024.
Cooperation Amit Shah inaugurated Cyber  The ship, third of its class was launched on
Security June 4, 1981, at GRSE and commissioned into
 The Cyber Security Operations Centre will service on August 14, 1985 by Vice Admiral Jayant
strengthen the Cyber Security posture of the Ganpat Nadkarni, then Chief of Naval Staff.
Force by carrying out real-time monitoring of  INS Nirupak was awarded the Admiral Jal
the network, mitigation of external threats & Cursetji Rolling Trophy for best survey ship in
prevention of Cyber violations in the Assam Rifles the years 1994, 1995, 2005 and 2009.
Wide Area Network (ARWAN).  It was actively engaged in Humanitarian
 The Cyber Security Operations Centre has been Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
equipped with a state-of-the-art Network & data operations, including Operation Gambhir
monitoring devices to provide 24 x 7 services. (Tsunami Relief) in 2004, offering critical relief as a
 The Centre is the first of its kind among all hospital ship to Indonesia.
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
Shooter Preeti Rajak becomes Army’s first
Govt flags off Astra Missile at BDL for supply to woman Subedar
Indian Air Force
 Havildar Preeti Rajak, who won a silver medal
 Government has flagged off the indigenously in the women’s trap shooting at the 19th Asian
developed and manufactured Astra Missiles for
Games at Hangzhou in China last year, has been
supply to the Indian Air Force. promoted to the rank of Subedar, becoming the
 Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile Army’s first woman Subedar.
indigenously developed by DRDO and  Subedar Rajak joined the Corps of Military
manufactured by BDL for the Indian Air Force and Police (CMP) in 2022, based on her performance
Indian Navy. The missile has a range of 100 plus
in trap shooting.
km.
 She was also the first meritorious woman
 This marks a significant achievement for BDL, sportsperson in shooting discipline to be
positioning it among a select few companies enrolled in the Army as a Havildar.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 She is currently ranked sixth in India (Trap  The exercise aimed to enhance synergy and
Women Event) and is training at Army interoperability between the air forces of the
Marksmanship Unit, preparing for Paris Olympics three countries.
2024, the Army said.  Indian Air Force (IAF) assets included Su-30 MKI,
MiG-29, Jaguar fighter jets, AWACS, C-130-J
Germany seeks inter-governmental deal for transport plane, and air-to-air refueling aircraft.
submarines with India  French participation featured Rafale fighter
aircraft and a multi-role tanker transport, while
 Germany has presented an inter-governmental the UAE Air Force deployed the F-16.
proposal for sale of six advanced conventional
submarines to India for the Navy’s P-75I Indian Navy to hold 11th edition of MILAN biennial
procurement programme. exercise, from 19th - 27th of Feb at
 The race for the deal, expected to cost upwards Visakhapatnam
of ₹45,000 crore, is between Germany and Spain,
and the process has been considerably delayed.  In a move to strengthen ties with neighbouring
 L&T and Spanish submarine manufacturer nations, the Indian Navy is gearing up to hold
Navantia concluded a ‘teaming agreement’ to 11th edition of MILAN, a biennial multinational
jointly bid for the project. naval exercise, from the 19th - 27th of February
 As per the understanding, Navantia would carry at Visakhapatnam.
out the design of P-75I submarines based on its  The event is likely to witness largest-ever
S80 class of submarines, the first of which was participation with invites being extended to over
launched in 2021 and was delivered to the 50 friendly foreign navies.
Spanish Navy in November 2023, while L&T will  MILAN exercise has emerged as the Indian
be responsible for constructing the submarines. Navy’s flagship event towards fostering
camaraderie, cohesion and collaboration
NCC Directorate Maharashtra wins prestigious amongst friendly foreign Navies.
PM’s Banner at Republic Day Camp 2024 for the  The exercise resonates with India’s international
3rd year in a row diplomatic efforts namely ‘Act East policy’ and
‘Security And Growth for All in the Region
 The NCC Directorate Maharashtra contingent
(SAGAR)’.
has won the prestigious Prime Minister’s
 MILAN 24 exercise would comprise of two
Banner at the Republic Day Camp -2024 event
phases - ‘Harbour phase’ and ‘Sea phase’.
for the third time in a row creating a hat-trick.
 The harbour phase, aims to promote cultural
 The Maharashtra Directorate contingent
sharing amongst the participating nations,
comprising of 122 Cadets won the Champions
would comprise of International Maritime Seminar,
Trophy and the coveted Prime Minister’s
City Parade at RK Beach, Swavalmban Exhibition,
Banner at the Republic Day Camp (RDC-2024) Subject Matter Expert Exchange, Milan of Young
for standing first overall in addition to winning a Officers and various sporting events.
rich haul of trophies and laurels/medals.  In the Sea phase, Ships along with Maritime
Patrol aircraft and submarines of friendly foreign
India, France, UAE conduct joint mega air countries will participate along with Indian Navy
exercise over Arabian Sea units.
Learn Along:
 India, France, and the United Arab Emirates  MILAN exercise is incepted in 1995 as a biennial
(UAE) conducted a joint air exercise named multinational event which flourished under the aegis
'Desert Knight' over the Arabian Sea.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
of Andaman and Nicobar command till its 10th edition  Comdt (JG) Saurabh (0735-S)
and later shifted to Visakhapatnam with 11th edition.
Tatrakshak Medal (Meritorious Service)
INDIAN – KYRGYZSTAN JOINT SPECIAL
 DIG Anil Kumar Parayil (0265-C)
FORCES EXERCISE KHANJAR COMMENCES IN
 DIG Jamal Taha (4085-J)
HIMACHAL PRADESH
 Dipak Roy, P/Adh (AR), 01111-Z
 The 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint
Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has Over 1100 Personnel Receive Gallantry, Service
commenced at the Special Forces Training School Medals
in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.
 The Ministry of Home Affairs announced
 The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from
Gallantry and Service medals for 1132
22nd January to 3rd February 2024. personnel across police, fire, civil defense and
 It is an annual event conducted alternatively in correctional services ahead of India’s 75th
both the countries. Republic Day celebrations. The awards recognize
 The Indian Army contingent comprising 20
brave and distinguished service to the nation.
personnel is being represented by troops from
 The awards are classified into 4 categories –
The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and
the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 President’s Medal for Gallantry, Medal for
personnel is represented by Scorpion Brigade. Gallantry, President’s Medal for Distinguished
 The aim of the exercise is to exchange Service and Medal for Meritorious Service.
experiences and best practices in Counter  277 personnel have been honored with
Terrorism and Special Forces Operations in Gallantry Medals, consisting of 2 President’s
Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain under Medal for Gallantry and 275 Medal for Gallantry
Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. awards.
 The exercise will emphasise on developing  They mark rare or conspicuous acts of courage
Special Forces skills, advanced techniques of undertaken during duties, often risking one’s own
insertion and extraction. life.
Significance of the Awards
President approves President’s Tatrakshak  The 2024 Republic Day Gallantry and Service
Medal & Tatrakshak Medal to six Indian Coast medals highlight personnel tackling tough law and
Guard personnel order environments, risky operations and
challenging duties with courage and dedication,
 On the eve of 75th Republic Day, President upholding security, safety and stability across
Droupadi Murmu has approved President’s India.
Tatrakshak Medal (PTM) and Tatrakshak Medal
(TM) to the following outstanding Indian Coast Army throws open 'India Selfie Point' near LoC in
JK's Uri sector
Guard (ICG) personnel for their act of
conspicuous gallantry, exceptional devotion to
 The Indian Army threw open the 'India Selfie
duty, distinguished/meritorious service: Point' near the Line of Control in Uri sector of
President’s Tatrakshak Medal (Distinguished Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.
Service)  The 'India Selfie Point' has been gifted by
 IG Bhisham Sharma, TM (0247-L) acclaimed artist Rouble Nagi, who has set up
several such points elsewhere in Jammu and
Tatrakshak Medal (Gallantry) Kashmir, they said.
 Comdt Sunil Dutt (0662-D)

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January 2024
 Rouble Nagi, an artist, author and a social worker,  MPATGM is a third-generation ATGM with 'Fire
is known through her Art foundation for & Forget' and night operational capability.
undertaking women empowerment projects in
 NASM-SR is the first indigenous air-launched
rural Kashmir through skill development and
creating village entrepreneurs. anti-ship missile system.
 VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence
MoD inks ₹1,070-crore deal for 14 patrol vessels System for neutralizing low altitude aerial threats.
for ICG  HELINA is a helicopter-launched third-
generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile.
 The Defence Ministry has signed a contract
 QRSAM provides all-weather air defense cover
worth over ₹1,070 crore with Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, for 14 Fast to the Indian Army's mechanized assets.
Patrol Vessels (FPV) for the Indian Coast Guard  Astra is a beyond visual range air-to-air missile
(ICG). for engaging supersonic aerial targets.
 These multi-role FPVs will be indigenously  LCA Tejas is an indigenously developed light-
designed, developed and manufactured by weight multirole tactical fighter aircraft.
MDL under Buy (Indian-IDDM) Category and will  Uttam AESAR is a solid-state active phased
be delivered in total 63 months.
array fire control radar for fighter aircraft.
 Along with several high-tech advanced features  'Shakti' is an Advanced Electronic Warfare
and equipment, these FPVs will be equipped
System designed for the Indian Navy.
with multipurpose drones, wirelessly controlled
Learn Along:
remote water rescue craft lifebuoy and Artificial
About DRDO
Intelligence (AI) capability etc.
Date founded: 1958 Headquarters: New
Delhi Chairman: Sameer V. Kamat
DRDO to showcase Nari Shakti & indigenous
critical systems & technologies during Republic
Day Parade 2024 PRESS RELEASE: EX- DESERT KNIGHT
 DRDO will showcase critical  On 23 Jan 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF)
systems/technologies during the 75th Republic conducted Exercise Desert Knight along with
Day Parade on January 26, 2024. French Air and Space Force (FASF) and United
 The DRDO tableau theme is 'Women power in Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force.
protecting the nation in all 5 dimensions: Land,  While the French participation included the
Air, Sea, Cyber, and Space.' Rafale fighter aircraft and a Multi Role Tanker
 The tableau highlights women's contributions Transport, the UAE Air Force fielded the F-16.
in Defence R&D and features a variety of  These aircraft operated from the Al Dhafra air
systems, including MPATGM, ASAT Missile, Agni- base in the UAE.
5, VSHORADS, NASM-SR, HELINA, QRSAM,  The IAF contingent comprised of Su-30 MKI,
Astra, Tejas, Uttam AESAR, 'Shakti' EW System, MiG-29, Jaguar, AWACS, C-130-J and Air to Air
Cyber Security systems, and more. Refueller aircraft.
 The ASAT Missile demonstrated India's anti-  The main focus of Exercise Desert Knight was
satellite technology and precision strike on enhancing synergy and interoperability
capability. between the three Air Forces.
 Agni-5 is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile
with high accuracy.
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January 2024
Indian Navy to Establish Second VLF  This marks the second VLF station in the country,
Communication Station in Telangana with the first being the INS Kattabomman
Radar Station at Vijayanarayanam in Tirunelveli
 In a significant development, the State district, Tamil Nadu, operational since 1990.
government has transferred 1,174 hectares of
forest land under the Damagudem Reserve INDIA- SAUDI ARABIA JOINT MILITARY
Forest near Pudur village in Vikarabad district EXERCISE ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ COMMENCES IN
to the Indian Navy to set up India’s second Very RAJASTHAN
Low Frequency (VLF) radar station.
 The Union Forest and Environment Department  The inaugural edition of India-Saudi Arabia Joint
approved the Navy’s proposals in 2014. Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ commenced
 Campa funds of ₹133.54 crore were allocated for at Mahajan, Rajasthan.
the transfer of forest land, and the Navy  The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted
contributed ₹18.56 crore for land conservation from 29th January to 10th February 2024.
measures.  The Saudi Arabian contingent comprising 45
personnel is being represented by Royal Saudi
 The naval unit is expected to house
Land Forces.
approximately 600 naval personnel and
civilians, providing homes for around 2,500 to  The Indian Army contingent also comprising
45 personnel is being represented by a
3,000 people.
Battalion from the Brigade of the Guards
 As part of the project, a 27-km road will be (Mechanised Infantry).
constructed around Damagudam Reserve  Aim of the Exercise is to train troops of both
Forest (RF). The new VLF centre is slated for sides for Joint Operations in Semi Desert
completion in 2027, marking a significant terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations
milestone in strengthening the Indian Navy’s Charter.
communication.  The Exercise will involve Establishment of
 The Navy has chosen Telangana as a strategic Mobile Vehicle Check Post, Cordon & Search
location for its second Very Low Frequency Operation, House Intervention Drill, Reflex
(VLF) communication station. Shooting, Slithering and Sniper Firing.
 VLF communication is crucial for naval
operations as it facilitates communication with
ships and submarines.
EVENTS
4th Rusoma Orange Festival 2024 In Nagaland opportunities and encourages sustainable
livelihoods within the community.
 Recently, the 4th edition of the two-day  This initiative not only helps individual
Organic Orange Festival was held in Rüsoma households to increase their income but also
Village, Nagaland, with the intention of contributes to the overall economic resilience of
encouraging rural farmers to promote organic the village.
products and the opportunity for income  Rüsoma Village, also known as the ‘Gardening
generation. village’ is located in the Capital of Nagaland,
 By giving local farmers a platform to showcase Kohima.
their produce, the festival creates economic
Learn Along:

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January 2024
About Nagaland usher in new work culture and give a fillip to Skill
Chief minister: Neiphiu Rio Capital: Kohima India Mission.
Governor: La. Ganesan
UNICEF join hands with NIUA to empower
Second edition of India Energy Week scheduled young people for urban governance through
to take place in Goa from 6th to 9th of February civic participation on National Youth Day
 Second edition of India Energy Week (IEW) in

 Urban Youth Unit at NIUA and YuWaah - UNICEF
Goa from the 6th to the 9th of February.
partner for empowering young people in urban
 Energy ministers from 17 countries, over 35 governance.
thousand attendees, and 900+ exhibitors
 The partnership focuses on co-creating and
expected.
implementing scalable youth-driven solutions
 IEW provides a platform to showcase energy
sector developments and promote further for city challenges.
growth.  Primary focus is on enhancing youth
 Make in India Pavilion to feature innovative leadership, participation, and action research
solutions from Indian MSMEs in the energy for strengthening civic behaviors and urban
sector. governance.
 Pavilions by Canada, Germany, Russia, the  Goal is to utilize interactive and gamified civic
Netherlands, UK, and USA; six countries leadership modules to enhance civic awareness
participating. and social responsibility among youth.
 Recent energy startup challenge by the Ministry
 Collaboration aims to equip youth with 21st-
of Petroleum and Natural Gas resulted in five
winners. century skills and progressive ideas for co-
 Winners to receive mentorship opportunities creating innovative solutions in urban governance.
from industry leaders and a chance to exhibit  UNICEF’s U-Report chatbot will be used to
their ideas. capture real-time data and insights from young
people on 'cities for youth.'
PRESIDENT OF INDIA INAUGURATES KAUSHAL
 'My Dream City' publication launched,
BHAVAN
showcasing visionary thoughts of young people
 The President of India, Droupadi Murmu captured in a competition organized by NIUA.
inaugurated Kaushal Bhawan – a new building of Learn Along:
the Ministry of Skill Development and About UNICEF
Entrepreneurship in New Delhi on January 24, The United Nations International Children’s Emergency
2024. Fund (UNICEF) was established in 1946.
 The Kaushal Bhawan whose foundation stone Headquarters: New York, United States Head:
was laid in March 2019 will provide office space Catherine M. Russell
for the Ministry as well as its associated
organisations – the Directorate General of Surya Tilak, A Mirror And Lens System From
Training, the National Council for Vocational Scientists For Ram Lalla Idol
Education and Training and the National Skill
Development Corporation.  Indian scientists have designed a 'Surya Tilak
 This state-of-the-art office building, equipped with mechanism' for the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya.
modern facilities and infrastructure has been  The mechanism, officially called the 'Surya
built with the aim of providing a safe, Tilak mechanism,' involves a mirror- and lens-
convenient and efficient work environment to

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January 2024
based apparatus to ensure sunlight falls on the  The campaign is a transformative 20-days
idol's forehead at noon on Ram Navami. expedition covering approximately 3333 KMs.
 CBRI scientists designed the mechanism to have from New Delhi to Kanyakumari, showcasing the
sunrays fall on the idol's forehead at 12 pm on Siddha system of Medicine.
Ram Navami for about six minutes using reflective
 The rally will pass through 8 states/ UTs, with 21
mirrors and lenses.
awareness camp points.
 Technical support for the Sun's path came from
 The program's key features include awareness
the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), and
events, meet and greet sessions with Public
Optica, a Bengaluru-based company, is involved representatives, Government Dignitaries, etc.,
in manufacturing the lenses and brass tubes. featuring 20 bikers and 2 stand by bikers.
 The mechanism, with 19 gears, ensures the
auspicious anointment on the fixed date of Ministry of Rural Development and Lady Irwin
Ram Navami, using no electricity, battery, or iron. College renews MoU for ROSHNI-CWCSA
Vice President to inaugurate 'Hamara Samvidhan,

 Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural
Hamara Samman' campaign
Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural
 Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar will inaugurate Development (MoRD), and Lady Irwin College,
'Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman' University of Delhi, have renewed a
campaign to commemorate the 75th Year of India Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
as a Republic in New Delhi.  During the five-year term of MoU, MoRD will work
 The year long campaign under the aegis of the with ROSHNI – Centre of Women Collectives led
Ministry of Law and Justice aims to reaffirm the Social Action (CWCSA), to strengthen
collective commitment to the principles interventions for better results of Food,
enshrined in the Constitution of India and Nutrition, Health and WASH (FNHW) for rural
celebrate the shared values that bind the communities.
nation.
 This partnership will strengthen nutrition,
 Sabko Nyay -Har Ghar Nyaya, Nav Bharat Nav gender equity and livelihoods for women.
Sankalp and Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan will be the Learn Along:
key themes to be covered during the campaign. About Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural
 Nyay Setu is set to be launched to provide a Livelihood Mission
unified legal interface for legal information,  Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural
legal advice and legal assistance. Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) is a flagship poverty
 The Event will also witness the release of the alleviation program launched by the Ministry of Rural
achievement booklet of the Scheme on Access Development (MoRD), Government of India in June
to Justice ‘Designing Innovative Solutions for 2011.
Holistic Access to Justice’ (DISHA).  It aims to reduce poverty by enabling the poor
household to access gainful self-employment and
Delhi to Kanyakumari Bikers Rally to be Flag-off skilled wage employment opportunities resulting in
sustainable and diversified livelihood options for the
Under Siddha Wellness Rally & Awareness poor.
Campaign
 This is one of the world's largest initiatives to
improve the livelihoods of the poor.
 Delhi to Kanyakumari Bikers Rally, under
 The Mission seeks to achieve its objective through
Siddha Wellness Rally & Awareness Campaign
investing in four core components viz., (a) social
(SWRAC) to be flag-offed by Union Minister of
mobilization and promotion and strengthening of self-
State for Ayush Dr. Munajpara Mahendrabhai managed and financially sustainable community
from Ayush Bhavan. institutions of the rural poor women; (b) financial

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
inclusion; (c) sustainable livelihoods; and (d) social  The Andhra Pradesh government will unveil the
inclusion, social development and access to world's tallest statue of the architect of the
entitlements through convergence. Indian Constitution, Dr BR Ambedkar.
 The BR Ambedkar statue has been erected at
25th International Theatre Festival Swaraj Maidan grounds in Vijaywada. Andhra
government has called it the, “Statue of Social
 Theatre Literacy, academic discussion and
citizen participation will be high on the agenda of Justice".
the 25th International Theatre Festival-‘Bharat  Last year, tallest statue of B R Ambedkar was
Rang Mahotsav’ organized by National formally inaugurated in a Maryland suburb in
Washington. The US's statue is 19-foot tall.
Schoolof Drama (NSD).
 In comparison to Sardar Vallabhai Patel's Statue
 The 21-day festival beginning from the 1st of
of Unity (597 feet tall), the height of BR
February will witness over 150 plays to be
Amdekar's statue is 206 feet.
staged across the country.
 The 206-foot tall sculpture was installed on an
 The festival will be inaugurated in Mumbai and
the closing ceremony will be held in Delhi. 81-foot pedestal at the Ambedkar Smriti
 The theme of the festival is Vasudhaiva Vanam, Amaravati.
Kutumbakam- Vande Bharangam.  The project incurred a cost of ₹404.35 crore and
 The festival aims to bring the world together is spread over 18.81 acres.
through the art of theatre.  The contractor agency M/s KPC Projects Ltd,
Hyderabad completed the construction while the
Ministry of Women & Child Development and design of the project was laid out by M/s Design
Ministry of Labour & Employment jointly Associates, Noida, Deccan Herald reported.
organised an event titled “सक्षम नारी सशक्त भारत
- Women in the Workforce for Viksit Bharat” in Secretary Shri Vivek Bharadwaj inaugurated
Leadership and Management Development
New Delhi
Programme of MoPR
 Ministry of Women & Child Development and
 The Ministry of Panchayati Raj inaugurated the
Ministry of Labour & Employment jointly hosted
"Leadership in Panchayats for Strategic Rural
the event titled - “सक्षम नारी सशक्त भारत - Women
Transformation (LEAP–START)" program at the
in the Workforce for Viksit Bharat” at Bharat
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
Mandapam in New Delhi. (IIMA).
 The event aimed to chart a path for women-led  A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was
development by adopting a comprehensive, signed between the Ministry and IIMA to
whole-of-government approach. operationalize the Leadership & Management
 This collaborative effort sought to envision and Development Programme.
promote a coordinated strategy that integrates  The program aims to create a network of
the strengths and initiatives of both Ministries, standardized training programs by
fostering an environment conducive to women's
collaborating with institutes of excellence, starting
empowerment and development ensuring the
with IIMA.
progression towards a Viksit Bharat.
 The outcomes of the program will shape plans
for collaboration with other institutes, focusing
World's tallest statue: Andhra Pradesh govt to
on scalability, effectiveness, and inclusivity.
unveil 206-ft tall statue of Dr BR Ambedkar

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January 2024
 The program, held at IIMA, involves around 60  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the
elected representatives and functionaries from 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global
various states and union territories. Summit 2024 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar.
 The theme of this year's summit is 'Gateway to
Dharmendra Pradhan to attend inaugural the Future,' featuring the participation of 34
ceremony of Kala Utsav partner countries and 16 partner organizations.
 The Prime Minister discussed India's priorities,
 Union Minister for Education and Skill including sustainable industries,
Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra manufacturing, infrastructure, AI, innovation,
Pradhan, will attend the inaugural ceremony of green hydrogen, and renewable energy.
the Kala Utsav as the Guest of Honour on 9th  The Vibrant Gujarat Summit serves as a gateway
January 2024. to the future, shaping a new generation of
 The Department of School Education and Literacy, creators and consumers in partnership with the
Ministry of Education, and National Council of aspirational young generation of India.
Educational Research and Training (NCERT) are
going to organise Kala Utsav 2024 from 9-12 PM to inaugurate 27th National Youth Festival in
January 2024 at National Bal Bhavan and the Nashik, Maharashtra on 12th January
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, New Delhi.
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate
CM Shri Bhupendra Patel Inaugurated The the 27th National Youth Festival in Nashik,
International Kite Festival 2024 In Ahmedabad Maharashtra, on January 12 and address the
nation's youth.
 Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the  National Youth Day, celebrated on January 12,
International Kite Festival-2024 in Ahmedabad. will involve field organizations across India
 The Chief Minister emphasized the nation's collaborating with government departments
economic growth due to the development of for activities coordinated by 'MY Bharat'
industries and business under Prime Minister volunteers, NSS units, NYKS, and educational
Shri Narendra Modi's visionary leadership. institutions.
 The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global  Over 88,000 volunteers will participate in the
Summit 2024 is set to commence, reflecting campaign, with registration through the MY
the state's commitment to holistic Bharat digital platform.
development.  Road safety awareness events will occur in
 The International Kite Festival features major cities and 750 district headquarters on
participants from 55 countries, 12 states, and January 12, involving trained volunteers flagged
23 cities in Gujarat, contributing to cultural off by Central/State Ministers or local MPs/MLAs.
exchange and tourism.
 The festival is organized in various cities and Four-day ‘Wings India 2024’ to kick off from 18
tourist destinations, promoting cultural programs January at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad
and boosting the local economy through tourism.
Learn Along:  Telangana Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari on 9
About Gujarat January, reviewed preparations for the conduct
Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel Governor: of Wings India 2024 at Begumpet Airport from
Acharya Devvrat Capital: Gandhinagar 18 to 21 January.
 The event is expected to witness the display of
PM inaugurates 10th edition of Vibrant Gujarat new-generation aircraft from various
Global Summit manufacturers, allied aviation services, auxiliary
units, industries, and tourism sectors.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 It will also apparently see the participation of  Celebrating 8 years of Startup India, the ‘Startup
high-level dignitaries from the governments of India Innovation Week 2024’ commenced on
other states and various countries. 10.01.2024 with Ask Me Anything (AMA)
 The key areas that need to be focussed on would session with ecosystem enablers.
be making adequate parking arrangements and  Eight, virtual Ask Me Anything (AMA) live
ensuring seamless traffic movement during
sessions are planned to be conducted from
the event.
10th to 17th January 2024 with relevant
stakeholders to celebrate the spirit of
Union Ayush Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to entrepreneurship in India.
lay foundation stone of the Regional Research
 On 10th January 2024, the Ask Me Anything
Institute for Homoeopathy at Guwahati
session focused on ‘Opportunities for Budding
 Union Ayush Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to Startups through Incubators’, giving insights to
lay the foundation stone of the permanent startups and entrepreneurs on various sources of
campus of the Regional Research Institute for seed funding available.
Homoeopathy and Integrated Ayush Wellness  The first mentorship session under the MAARG
Centre at Azara, Guwahati on January 12, 2024. Mentorship Series for budding entrepreneurs
 The Institute, established as a Clinical focused on ‘From Idea to Execution - Building
Research Unit of Homeopathy in 1984, a Solid Business Plan’.
currently situated at Bhetapara, Guwahati, was  Further, ‘Startup Shala’ - Startup India’s
initially in a rented building at Odalbakra, flagship Accelerator Program was launched
Guwahati. for extensive handholding of startups at the
 The total sanctioned amount for the project is Rs. scaleup stage.
53.89 crore.  The initiative is a 3-month long accelerator
 The Institute caters to the health needs of the program for early-stage startups to provide them
surrounding population, witnessing an increase access to knowledge, network, funds, or guidance
in the OPD every year, with special OPDs like required to scale up.
mother & Child OPD and LSD clinic.
 The Institute provides laboratory services at Climate Conference 2024 “Decoding the Green
nominal rates and has successfully completed Transition for India”
clinical trials on various health issues.
 On January 8 and 9, the new buildings of the  The Climate Conference 2024, themed
Central Research Institute (Homeopathy), "Decoding the Green Transition for India," took
Lucknow, and the Regional Research Institute place on January 12, 2024, in Mumbai,
of Homeopathy, Siliguri, were inaugurated by Maharashtra.
Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai, Union Minister of  Organized by the Ministry of Environment,
State for Ayush and Women and Child Forest and Climate Change, Government of
Development. India, the event focused on the pivotal role of
 The Regional Research Institute for the private sector, climate tech Startups and
Homoeopathy, Siliguri, established in 1984, institutional investors in mobilizing financial
has contributed significantly to clinical and public resources and technical capabilities.
health research projects, especially in the  The goal was to leverage government efforts,
Integrated NPCDCS-Ayush program. engage civil society and communities, and
develop innovative climate services and
DPIIT organises Startup India Innovation Week adaptation technologies.
from 10th-18th January 2024  The Conference was organised under the Green
Climate Fund Readiness Programme with

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Delivery Partner UNDP India and supported by Central Command of Indian Army to conduct
Knowledge Partner Avaana Capital. 76th Army Day Parade at 11 Gorkha Rifles
 The Conference underscored India's roadmap to Regimental Centre in Lucknow
achieving net-zero by 2070, focusing on green
transition investments to transform energy  The 76th Army Day Parade by the Central
systems, reduce CO2 emissions, conserve natural Command of the Indian Army (Surya
resources, increase biodiversity, and enhance Command) will take place in Lucknow at the 11
climate resilience in a socially just and inclusive Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre.
manner.  The parade includes six marching
contingents, five regimental brass bands, and
Divya Kala Mela 2024 inaugurated in Nagpur five regimental pipe bands.
 Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande
 The Department of Empowerment of Persons will review the parade and present Gallantry
with Disabilities (Divyangjan) {DEPwD}, Ministry awards for acts of bravery and sacrifice.
of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt of India  AI-based software will assess the drill, with 15
through National Divyangjan Finance and
AI-enabled cameras capturing the movement of
Development Corporation (NDFDC) organizes
marching contingents for disciplined contingent
Divya Kala Mela unique event showcasing the
selection.
products and craftsmanship of Divyang
entrepreneurs/artisans from across the country.  The parade will showcase a fly-past of
 To continue the efforts of empowering Divyang microlights and helicopters, motorcycle rider
Entrepreneurs, Divya Kala Mela is being skills, and various weapon systems in the
organized from 12th January – 21st January Indian Army's inventory.
2024 at Ground-3 Reshimbagh, Nagpur  This is the second time Army Day is held
outside Delhi, following last year's event in
(Maharashtra).
Bengaluru, aimed at increasing awareness and
 This is a unique initiative of DEPwD towards the motivating youth to join the armed forces.
economic empowerment of PwD/Divyangjan.
 The Divya Kala Mela presents a bigger platform Czech PM to be chief guest at Vibrant Gujarat
for marketing and showcasing the products Summit
and skills of Divyangjan (PwD).
 The Divya Kala Mela, Nagpur is the 13th one in  Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala is expected to
series starting from 2022 (i) Delhi, 2-6 December be the Guest of Honour at the 10th Vibrant
2022, (ii) Mumbai, 16th to 25th February 2023, (iii) Gujarat Global Investors Summit to be held in
Bhopal, 12th to 21st March 2023, (iv) Guwahati, Gandhinagar from January 10 to 12.
11th to 17th May 2023 (v) Indore, 17th to 23rd June  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the
2023 (vi) Jaipur 29th June to 5th July 2023 (vii) event on January 10.
Varanasi, 15th to 24th September,2023 (viii)
Aatmanirbhar Bharat Utsav 2024
Secunderabad, Hyderabad 6th to 15th October
2023 (ix) Bengaluru, Karnataka 27th October to 5th
 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat Utsav 2024' was
November, 2023 (x) Chennai, TN 17th to 26th inaugurated by Union Ministers Dr. S. Jaishankar
November, 2023 (xi) Patna 8th-17th December and Piyush Goyal in New Delhi.
2023 (xii) Surat 29th December 2023 to 7th
 National One District One Product (ODOP)
January, 2024 and Now at Nagpur.
Awards 2023 presented during the event.
 India aims to reach a $5 trillion economy and
become the world's third-largest GDP by 2027.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Aatmanirbhar Bharat Utsav 2024 organized by  The initiative aims to connect citizens with pure
DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, from and safe local and traditional food, promoting
January 3rd to 10th in New Delhi. healthy eating habits.
 ODOP Awards recognize efforts in promoting  Dr. Mandaviya launches the official website and
the initiative; 580 applications received from 535 brochure for the Healthy & Hygienic Food
districts, 26 States/UTs, and 19 Indian Missions Street initiative.
Abroad.  Launch of the Mannhit app for mental health
 24 Awards across three categories – Districts, screening and unveiling of various projects
States/UTs, and Indian Missions Abroad – under the National Health Mission.
presented at the ceremony, with virtual
participation from Missions Abroad. Sarbananda Sonowal to chair the First Inland
Waterways Development Council Meeting to be
Cabinet approves Ayodhya Airport as an held in Kolkata
International Airport and naming it as “Maharishi
 The Inland Waterways Authority of India, under
Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhyadham”
the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
(MoPSW), is set to host the inaugural 'Inland
 The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime
Waterways Development Council' meeting on
Minister, Narendra Modi has approved the
January 8, 2023, in Kolkata.
proposal to declare Ayodhya Airport as an
International Airport and naming it as “Maharishi  The day-long meeting on board the vessel MV
Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhyadham”. Ganga Queen, will bring together key figures
from across the waterways states and central
 Elevating Ayodhya Airport to international
government including Shri Shripad Naik and Shri
status is paramount for realizing Ayodhya's
Shantanu Thakur, Ministers of State for Ports,
economic potential and its significance as a
Shipping & Waterways.
global pilgrimage site, opening doors to foreign
pilgrims and tourists.  The event will also see the participation of
Ministers from various State Governments,
 The airport’s name, "Maharishi Valmiki
accompanied by their Principle
International Airport, Ayodhyadham," pays Secretaries/Secretaries, alongside numerous
homage to Maharishi Valmiki, the sage senior officers of the Central Government and
attributed to composing the epic Ramayana, domain experts in the field.
adding a cultural touch to the airport's identity.
 The Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways &
AYUSH will also unveil groundbreaking
Country’s 1st Healthy & Hygienic Food Street, initiatives, including "Harit Nauka – Guidelines
'PRASADAM,' for Green Transition of Inland Vessels" and the
"River Cruise Tourism Roadmap 2047," during the
 Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates India's 1st
meeting.
Healthy & Hygienic Food Street, 'PRASADAM,'
in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
AWARDS AND REWARDS

Gujarat sets Guinness record for performing individuals performing Surya Namaskar
mass Surya Namaskar on New Year simultaneously.
 The event occurred on January 1, 2024, with
 Gujarat secured a place in the Guinness Book over 4,000 participants across 108 locations
of World Records for the largest number of engaging in the sun salutation yoga sequence.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Participants represented 51 diverse categories,

including families, students, yoga Vasanthalakshmi gets ‘Nritya Kalanidhi’ award
practitioners, and senior citizens.
 The event took place at the Modhera Sun  Vasanthalakshmi Narasimhachari received the
Temple in the presence of Chief Minister 'Nritya Kalanidhi' award at the 17th Dance
Bhupendra Patel and Home Minister Harsh Festival of the Music Academy in Chennai.
Sanghavi.  The award was presented by Edgar Pang Tze
Chiang, Consul-General of the Republic of
2024 to be named 'Year of Human Resource Singapore in Chennai.
Development and Discipline'  Tamil is one of the four official languages in
Singapore, and there are historical people-to-
 On the occasion of New Year 2024, CMD IREDA
people links with the fine arts of Tamil Nadu.
Pradip Kumar Das has announced that the year
2024 will be christened as 'Year of Human
Resource Development and Discipline' to mark Hero MotoCorp’s facility wins CII National Award
IREDA's future roadmap into new strategic for water management
sectors and geographies.
Learn Along:  Hero MotoCorp’s manufacturing facility in
About IREDA Gurugram bagged the CII National Award for
 Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Excellence in Water Management, securing the
Limited (IREDA) is a Mini Ratna (Category – I) top position in the ‘Within the Fence’ category.
Government of India Enterprise under the  The company is making strides towards its goal of
administrative control of Ministry of New and
being 500 per cent water positive by 2025.
Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Presently, the company is saving nearly 3.8
 IREDA is a Public Limited Government Company
established as a Non-Banking Financial Institution million kiloliters of water annually.
in 1987 engaged in promoting, developing and  The company adopted an approach
extending financial assistance for setting up projects encompassing water reduction, recycling,
relating to new and renewable sources of energy and recovery, and recharge.
energy efficiency/conservation with the motto:
“ENERGY FOR EVER” Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural
University's Vice Chancellor Prof B R Kamboj
Francoise Bettencourt Meyers becomes first honoured with M S Swaminathan Award
woman with $100-billion net worth after L’Oréal
SA shares jump to record high  Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural
University's Vice Chancellor Prof. B.R. Kamboj
 Francoise Bettencourt Meyers becomes the has been honoured with the prestigious M.S.
first woman to reach a $100 billion fortune. Swaminathan Award in recognition of his
 Her wealth rises to $100.1 billion, making her the contributions as a scientist and extension
12th-richest person globally and just behind specialist in the field of agronomy.
Mexico's Carlos Slim.  Thawar Chand Gehlot, the Governor of
 The milestone is attributed to the record-high Karnataka, presented him this award.
shares of L’Oréal SA, the beauty products  The award ceremony took place at the
International Conference on 'One Health One
empire founded by her grandfather.
World,' held at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia
 Bettencourt Meyers, 70, is the vice-chair of the Agricultural University at Gwalior in Madhya
board of L’Oréal, and her family holds nearly 35% Pradesh.
of the company.

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January 2024
Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay Receives 2023 Innovation Sandbox presentation for “Digital

Kuvempu Award: Significance in Literary Transformation Initiatives in Land
Recognition Governance through SVAMITVA Scheme” at
the second annual three-day “Public Policy
 Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay awarded the 2023 Dialogues” Conclave of the Bharti Institute of
Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar for his literary
Public Policy (BIPP), Indian School of Business
contributions.
(ISB), Hyderabad during 3rd January – 5th
 The national award honors writers making
significant contributions to any Indian January 2024.
language.  SVAMITVA Scheme was also conferred with
the Gold award for the category “Innovative
 Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay, a prolific author,
has written over 90 novels, including Use of Technology in e-Governance for Digital
travelogues and children's fiction. Transformation” at Digitech Conclave 2023
 The award includes a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, organized at Goa in August 2023.
a silver medal, and a citation. Learn Along:
About SVAMITVA Scheme
SVAMITVA Scheme wins Best Innovation Award  SVAMITVA Scheme of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj
for Innovation Sandbox presentation during is a Central Sector Scheme that has significantly
contributed to the empowerment of rural communities
Public Policy Dialogues–2024 at Indian School of
in India.
Business, Hyderabad
 By leveraging cutting-edge drone surveys and GIS
mapping technology, the scheme ensures accurate
 The Ministry of Panchayati Raj participated in demarcation of land parcels, thereby mitigating
the Innovation Sandbox presentation and disputes and providing individuals with property
showcased the “Digital Transformation records of rights i.e. SVAMITVA Property Cards,
Initiatives in Land Governance through thereby facilitating monetization of properties, enabling
SVAMITVA Scheme” detailing the processes bank loans and comprehensive village-level planning.
followed by States to digitalize land governance  The Scheme has been recognized and received
systems transparently and efficiently. awards on various platforms since its launch by the
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 24th April, 2020.
 The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has been
conferred with the prestigious 1st Prize in the
Golden Globes 2024
 The 81st Golden Globe Awards handed out on at The Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California,
US.
 Golden Globes 2024 red carpet: Margot Robbie channels Superstar Barbie from 1977, Colman Domingo
in a custom Nehru jacket
Category Nominee Result

Best Motion Picture – Drama Oppenheimer (Universal Pictures) Winner
Best Motion Picture – Musical or
Comedy Poor Things (Searchlight Pictures) Winner
Best Motion Picture – Animated The Boy and the Heron (GKids) Winner
Cinematic and Box Office Achievement Barbie (Warner Bros. Pictures) Winner

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Best Motion Picture – Non-English

Language Anatomy of a Fall, France (Neon) Winner
Best Performance by a Male Actor in a
Motion Picture – Drama Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer Winner
Best Performance by a Female Actor in
a Motion Picture – Drama Lily Gladstone, Killers of the Flower Moon Winner
Best Performance by a Female Actor in
a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy Emma Stone, Poor Things Winner
Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy Paul Giamatti, The Holdovers Winner
Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture Robert Downey Jr., Oppenheimer Winner
2023 Confirmed as Warmest Year on Record by and Project Director of Chandrayaan 3, Dr

European Climate Service P.Veeramuthuvel, at a glittering ceremony in
New Delhi.
 The year 2023 has been confirmed as the  The award recognised the remarkable
warmest on record, driven by human-caused contribution made by ISRO in pushing the
climate change and boosted by the natural El boundaries of Space exploration.
Niño weather event. Learn Along:
 The European Union's Copernicus Climate About ISRO
Change Service (C3S) released its 2023 Global Headquarters: Bengaluru Founded: 15
Climate Highlights report backing up scientific August 1969 Chairman: Shri S. Somanath
consensus that 2023 was the hottest year on
record. Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award 2022
 The report shows 2023 had a global average
temperature of 14.98 degree Celsius, which is  Savita Kanswal, the first Indian woman to scale
0.17 degree Celsius higher than 2016, the Mount Everest and Mount Makalu in 16 days,
posthumously honored with the Tenzing
previous record-breaking year.
Norgay National Adventure Award 2022.
 The award recognized her exceptional
ISRO presented with “Indian of the Year Award"
accomplishments, including ascents of Mount
for the year 2023 in the category ‘Outstanding
Everest, Lhotse, Mount Trishul, Mount Tuliyan,
Achievement’ Kolahai, and Mount Labuche.
 President Droupadi Murmu conferred the award
 Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) in Delhi, accepted by Savita's father,
Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Radheshyam Kanswal.
Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and  Savita's illustrious mountaineering career
Space, Dr Jitendra Singh presented “Indian of tragically ended in October 2022 in an
the Year Award" for the year 2023 in the category avalanche while fixing ropes on Draupadi Ka
‘Outstanding Achievement’ to Team ISRO Danda-II.
(Indian Space Research Organisation).  Despite her passing, her achievements and the
 The award, instituted by a national TV channel, Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award 2022
was received by ISRO Chairman S. Somnath serve as inspiration for future adventurers.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Savita's legacy includes being the first Indian  Skyways Air Services has received the
woman to conquer two 8000M peaks—Mt. prestigious Best Cargo Services Award at the
Everest and Mt. Makalu—in 16 days. 4th Wings India Awards in Hyderabad.
 Presented by Jyotiraditya Scindia, Hon’ble
NHPC honoured with SCOPE’s 'Commendation Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, the
Certificate' for Effective Implementation of RTI event brought together industry leaders and
Act stakeholders.
 This recognition is a testament to Skyways’
 NHPC Limited, India’s premier hydropower steadfast commitment to excellence and
company, has been awarded SCOPE's innovation in the aviation industry, spanning
'Commendation Certificate' in the category of more than four decades.
Effective Implementation of RTI Act.  The Wings India Awards aim to acknowledge
 The certificate has been presented by Vice outstanding contributions in civil aviation, with
President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar, during Wings India 2024 standing as a premier event in
the SCOPE Awards ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan the Asian civil aviation domain.
in New Delhi on 18th January, 2024.  Jointly organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation,
the Airports Authority of India, and FICCI, it
REC receives SCOPE Excellence Award for serves as a flagship event for civil aviation and
Digitalization aerospace.
 REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector US air force officer Madison Marsh crowned Miss
Enterprise under the Ministry of Power and a America 2024
leading NBFC, has been honored with the
prestigious Scope Excellence Award in the  Madison Marsh, an officer in the US Air Force and
category of Special Institutional Category Harvard graduate, became the first active-duty
(Digitalization).
military service member to be crowned Miss
 The award acknowledges REC Limited's America.
unwavering commitment to the digitalization of
 Marsh won the title of Miss Colorado in May,
its workplace and the promotion of best practices
qualifying her for the Miss America pageant,
in establishing a paperless office.
founded in 1921.
 The award was presented by the Vice President
of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, at a ceremony held Assam Baibhav Award for Ex-CJI Ranjan Gogoi
at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on January 18,
2024.
 The Assam government has announced that it
Learn Along:
will confer the Assam Baibhav award, the
 SCOPE was established in 1973 as an apex body of
state’s highest civilian honor, to Member of
Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs), and is dedicated to
promoting competitiveness and excellence within the
Parliament and former Chief Justice of India
PSE sector.
(CJI) Ranjan Gogoi.
 The SCOPE Excellence Award recognizes and  He has been credited for playing a part in the
commemorates exemplary performances of Public establishment of the Ram temple in Ayodhya
Sector Enterprises. through the apex court judgment delivered under
his leadership as CJI.
Skyways Air Services wins Best Cargo Services  Ranjan Gogoi held the office of the 46th Chief
Award at Wings India Awards Justice of India.
4 Winners for Assam Saurav

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Four personalities have also been named joint  This is the only award bestowed by the ICAI
winners of the Assam Saurav Award, the state’s under this category and the selection has been
second highest civilian honor. made based on the company’s accounting
 These include archaeologist Kishan Chand practices, disclosure policies, presentation of
Nauriyal, swimmer Elvis Ali Hazarika, sprinter financial statements, other information contained
Hima Das and Tiwa dance exponent Nadiram in the Annual Report and degree of compliance
Deuri. with Indian Accounting Standards, Statutory
 Additionally, seventeen eminent citizens guidelines and Regulations.
across diverse fields will receive the Assam  Recently, REC was recognized for its
Gaurav Award – the third highest state honor this exceptional performance in risk management
and bestowed with the ‘Golden Peacock
year. This award includes a financial component
Award’ by the Institute of Directors (IOD).
of Rs.3 lakhs in addition to a certification or a
 Additionally, the company was conferred the
citation or a medal.
'Best Central PSU' Award in the Financial
Services category at the Dun & Bradstreet PSU
REC wins ICAI Award for Excellence in Financial
Awards 2023.
Reporting for FY 2022-23
Learn Along:
About REC Limited
 REC Limited, a Maharatna Public Sector Unit and  REC Limited is an NBFC focusing on Power Sector
a leading NBFC under the Ministry of Power, has
Financing and Development across India.
been awarded ‘Plaque’ under the ‘Financial
 Established in 1969, REC Limited has completed
Services Sector (Other than Banking and over fifty years of operations.
Insurance)’ category at the ICAI Awards for  It provides financial assistance to state electricity
Excellence in Financial Reporting for the financial boards, state governments, central and state power
year 2022-23. utilities, independent power producers, rural electric
cooperatives and private sector utilities.
Padma Awards 2024 announced
 Padma Awards - one of the highest civilian Awards of the country, are conferred in three categories,
namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri.
 The Awards are given in various disciplines / fields of activities, viz.- art, social work, public affairs,
science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.
 ‘Padma Vibhushan’ is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; ‘Padma Bhushan’ for
distinguished service of high order and ‘Padma Shri’ for distinguished service in any field.
 These Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at
Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March / April every year.
 For the year 2024, the President has approved conferment of 132 Padma Awards including 2 duo
cases (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one) as per list below.
 The list comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan and 110 Padma Shri Awards.
Padma Vibhushan (5)
SN Name Field State/Region/Country

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
1 Ms. Vyjayantimala Bali Art Tamil Nadu
2 Shri Konidela Chiranjeevi Art Andhra Pradesh
3 Shri M Venkaiah Naidu Public Affairs Andhra Pradesh
4 Shri Bindeshwar Pathak Social Work Bihar

(Posthumous)
5 Ms. Padma Subrahmanyam Art Tamil Nadu
Padma Bhushan (17)

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
SN Name Field State/Region/Country
6 Ms. M Fathima Beevi Public Affairs Kerala

(Posthumous)
7 Shri Hormusji N Cama Literature & Education - Maharashtra

Journalism
8 Shri Mithun Chakraborty Art West Bengal
9 Shri Sitaram Jindal Trade & Industry Karnataka
10 Shri Young Liu Trade & Industry Taiwan
11 Shri Ashwin Balachand Medicine Maharashtra

Mehta
12 Shri Satyabrata Mookherjee Public Affairs West Bengal

(Posthumous)
13 Shri Ram Naik Public Affairs Maharashtra
14 Shri Tejas Madhusudan Medicine Gujarat

Patel
15 Shri Olanchery Rajagopal Public Affairs Kerala
16 Shri Dattatray Ambadas Art Maharashtra

Mayaloo alias Rajdutt
17 Shri Togdan Rinpoche Others - Spiritualism Ladakh

(Posthumous)
18 Shri Pyarelal Sharma Art Maharashtra
19 Shri Chandreshwar Prasad Medicine Bihar

Thakur
20 Ms. Usha Uthup Art West Bengal
21 Shri Vijaykanth Art Tamil Nadu

(Posthumous)

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
22 Shri Kundan Vyas Literature & Education - Maharashtra

Journalism
PM Young Achievers’ Scholarship Award  During the year 2023-24, an amount of Rs 32.44
Scheme for a Vibrant India (PM YASASVI) for Crore has been released to States/UTs for
OBC, EBC and DNT Students implementation of the Scheme till 18th
January,2024.
 PM YASASVI is a Scholarship scheme for
Other Backward Class (OBCs), Economically Post-Matric Scholarship
Backward Class (EBC) and Denotified  Scholarship is awarded to students studying at
Nomadic Tribes (DNT) Students. post-matriculation or post-secondary stage to
 Under this Scheme students can avail Pre- enable them to complete their education.
Matric Scholarship from Class 9 to 10 and Post  Income from all sources does not exceed
Matric Scholarship for their higher studies at Rs.2,50,000/- per annum.
post-matriculation or post-secondary stage.
 Academic allowance from Rs.5000 to Rs.20000 is
 Students who excel in their studies also get an
opportunity of Scholarship to study in Top Class awarded to students as per category of course.
Schools and Colleges under the Scheme of ‘Top  During the year 2023-24, an amount of Rs 387.27
Class School Education’ and ‘Top Class College Crore has been released to States/UTs for
Education’. implementation of the Scheme till 18th
January,2024.
Components of Schemes are as under.
 Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC and DNT
Students. SCOPE's Commendation Certificate to NHPC
 Post-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC and DNT
 National Hydroelectric Power Corporation
Students. (NHPC) Limited, a Mini Ratna Category-I Public
 Top Class School Education for OBC, EBC and Sector Undertakings (PSU) and India's premier
DNT Students. hydropower company achieved a significant
 Top Class College Education for OBC, EBC and milestone by being honoured with Standing
DNT Students. Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE's)
 Construction of Hostel for OBC Boys and Girls. 'Commendation Certificate' for its effective
implementation of the Right to Information (RTI)
Salient features of the Schemes are Act, 2005.
 Pre-Matric Scholarship  The award highlights NHPC's commitment to
transparency.
 Pre-Matric Scholarship is for students studying in
 Established in 1973, the SCOPE is the apex
class IX and X on a full-time basis in Government body for Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs)
Schools only. strives to foster competitiveness and excellence in
 Income from all sources does not exceed its member PSEs by implementing policies and
Rs.2,50,000/- per annum. strategies to enhance their operational capacities
 The students shall be given a consolidated and efficiencies.
academic allowance of Rs. 4000/- per annum.  SCOPE, closely affiliated with national bodies
like the Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
of Finance, and others, interfaces with statutory  On conferment of the award, the recipient receives a
bodies such as the Central Information Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a
Commission (CIC), and Central Vigilance medallion. The Award does not carry any monetary
Commission (CVC) to address Public Sector grant.
issues.  In terms of Article 18 (1) of the Constitution, the award
cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the
 Internationally, SCOPE serves as the
recipient's name. However, should an award winner
representative for employers on forums like
consider it necessary, he/she may use the following
International Labour Organization (ILO); the United
expression in their biodata/letterhead/visiting card etc.
Nations (UN); and , Organization for Economic Co-
to indicate that he/she is a recipient of the award:
operation and Development (OECD). ‘Awarded Bharat Ratna by the President’ or
‘Recipient of Bharat Ratna Award’
Bharat Ratna for Karpoori Thakur
UP to honour 2 with Gaurav Samman
 Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur
will be posthumously awarded the Bharat
 The government will confer the ‘Uttar Pradesh
Ratna.
Gaurav Samman’ on eminent ISRO scientist Dr
 Karpoori Thakur was born on January 24, 1924,
Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, who played a crucial role
in Samastipur, Bihar, and served as the state's
in the Chandrayaan Mission as the mission
CM for two short tenures.
director of mission moon, and Naveen Tiwari, a
 He was inspired by leaders like Ram Manohar noted entrepreneur from Kanpur, who is
Lohia, participated in the Quit India Movement, regularly featured on covers of magazines like
and played an active role in the freedom struggle. Forbes and Fortune.
 Thakur is considered the fountainhead of OBC
politics in Bihar and became the state's CM Prominent Indian Lawyer Receives Prestigious
twice. 'Freedom Of The City Of London' Award
 His notable decisions included enforcing total
prohibition of alcohol in the state in 1970 and  Ajit Mishra, a prominent India-born lawyer in the
implementing quotas for backward classes based UK, has been conferred the prestigious
on the Mungeri Lal Commission's "Freedom of the City of London Award” for his
recommendations. outstanding contribution to legal and public life on
 Karpoori Thakur passed away in 1988 at the age January 23.
of 64 and will be the 49th recipient of the Bharat
 He is a dual-qualified lawyer and corporate
Ratna.
Learn Along:
partner at Knights.
About Bharat Ratna  The award, given by the City of London
 ‘Bharat Ratna’, the highest civilian Award of the Corporation, dates back to the 13th century and
country, was instituted in the year 1954.
is bestowed upon individuals who make
outstanding contributions to London and public
 Any person without distinction of race, occupation,
position or sex is eligible for these awards. life.
 It is awarded in recognition of exceptional  Notable recipients of this award are the first
service/performance of the highest order in any Prime Minister of India, Jawahar Lal Nehru,
field of human endeavour. former prime ministers of the United Kingdom-
 The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are made Winston Churchill, and Margaret Thatcher, the
by the Prime Minister himself to the President. No first prime minister of Singapore Lee Kuan Yew,
formal recommendations for this are necessary. First President of South Africa Nelson Mandela
 The number of annual awards is restricted to a besides contemporary statesmen.
maximum of three in a particular year.

Filmfare Awards 2024 winners list
 69th Filmfare Awards 2024 took place on January 28 in Gujarat's Gandhinagar.

 This was the first edition of the award ceremony held over two days with a separate ceremony for
Technical Awards.
Category Winner
BEST FILM (POPULAR) 12TH FAIL
BEST FILM (CRITICS) JORAM
BEST DIRECTOR VIDHU VINOD CHOPRA (12TH FAIL)

BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
(MALE) RANBIR KAPOOR (ANIMAL)
BEST ACTOR (CRITICS) VIKRANT MASSEY (12TH FAIL)

BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
(FEMALE) ALIA BHATT (ROCKY AUR RANI KII PREM KAHAANI)
RANI MUKERJI (MRS. CHATTERJEE VS. NORWAY),

BEST ACTRESS (CRITICS) SHEFALI SHAH (THREE OF US)
BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING
ROLE (MALE) VICKY KAUSHAL (DUNKI)
BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING
ROLE (FEMALE) SHABANA AZMI (ROCKY AUR RANI KII PREM KAHAANI)
BEST LYRICS AMITABH BHATTACHARYA (TERE VAASTE)

BEST MUSIC ALBUM ANIMAL
BEST PLAYBACK SINGER (MALE) BHUPINDER BABBAL (ANIMAL)
BEST PLAYBACK SINGER
(FEMALE) SHILPA RAO (PATHAAN)
BEST STORY AMIT RAI (OMG 2), DEVASHISH MAKHIJA (JORAM)
BEST SCREENPLAY VIDHU VINOD CHOPRA (12TH FAIL)
BEST DIALOGUE ISHITA MOITRA (ROCKY AUR RANI KII PREM KAHAANI)
BEST BACKGROUND SCORE HARSHVARDHAN RAMESHWAR (ANIMAL)
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY AVINASH ARUN DHAWARE (THREE OF US)
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN SUBRATA CHAKRABORTY, AMIT RAY (SAM BAHADUR)

SACHIN LOVELEKAR, DIVVYA GAMBHIR, NIDHHI GAMBHIR
BEST COSTUME DESIGN (SAM BAHADUR)
KUNAL SHARMA (MPSE) (SAM BAHADUR), SYNC CINEMA

[Date]
BEST SOUND DESIGN (ANIMAL)
0
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Category Winner
JASKUNWAR SINGH KOHLI- VIDHU VINOD CHOPRA (12TH
BEST EDITING FAIL)
SPIRO RAZATOS, ANL ARASU, CRAIG MACRAE, YANNICK
BEST ACTION BEN, KECHA KHAMPHAKDEE, SUNIL RODRIGUES (JAWAN)
BEST VFX RED CHILLIES VFX (JAWAN)
GANESH ACHARYA (WHAT JHUMKA?- ROCKY AUR RANI KII

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY PREM KAHAANI)
BEST DEBUT DIRECTOR TARUN DUDEJA (DHAK DHAK)
BEST DEBUT MALE ADITYA RAWAL (FARAAZ)
BEST DEBUT FEMALE ALIZEH AGNIHOTRI (FARREY)

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD DAVID DHAWAN
“Maratha Military Landscapes of India” will be  Best Marching Contingent among the three
India’s nomination for recognition as UNESCO services – Sikh Regiment Contingent
World Heritage List for the year 2024-25  Best Marching Contingent among
CAPF/other auxiliary forces – Delhi Police
 The “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” Women Marching Contingent
will be India’s nomination for recognition as
Best three Tableaux (States/UTs)
UNESCO World Heritage List for the year
2024-25.  First – Odisha (Woman Empowerment in Viksit
 The twelve component parts of this nomination Bharat)
are, Salher fort, Shivneri fort, Lohgad,  Second – Gujrat (Dhordo : A Global Icon Of
Khanderi fort, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Gujarat’s Border Tourism)
Suvarnadurg, Panhala Fort, Vijay durg,
 Third – Tamil Nadu (Kudavolai System in
Sindhudurg in Maharashtra and Gingee Fort
ancient Tamil Nadu – Mother of Democracy)
in Tamil Nadu.
 These components, distributed across diverse
 Best Tableau (Ministries/Departments) -
geographical and physiographic regions,
showcase the strategic military powers of the Ministry of Culture – (Bharat : Mother of
Maratha rule. Democracy)
 Special Prize - Central Public Works
Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt gives away best Department (Central Vista -Viksit Bharat Ka
marching contingents & tableaux awards for Pratibimb)
Republic Day Parade 2024
 Special memento to ‘Vande Bharatam’ –
Dance Group
 Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt gave away the
best marching contingents and tableaux
The results are:
awards for the Republic Day Parade on
January 30, 2024.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Best Marching Contingent among the three  Second - Uttar Pradesh (Viksit Bharat Samradh
services – Rajputana Rifles Regimental Virasat)
Marching Contingent  Third – Andhra Pradesh (Transforming School
 Best Marching Contingent among
Education in Andhra Pradesh – Making Students
CAPF/other auxiliary forces - CRPF Woman
Globally Competitive)
Marching Contingent
 Best Tableau (Central
Best three Tableaux (States/UTs):
Ministries/Departments) – Vibrant Villages
 First - Gujrat (Dhordo : A Global Icon Of
(Ministry of Home Affairs)
Gujarat’s Border Tourism)
APPOINTMENTS
Organization News Learn Along
Name
Power Grid Power Grid Corporation, a leading state-owned enterprise, announced a Founded:
Corporation significant change in its leadership on January 1. Ravindra Kumar Tyagi 23 October
has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director 1989
(CMD), succeeding Sreekant Kandikuppa who retired upon reaching the
age of superannuation.
DCB Bank The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted approval for the appointment Headquarters
of Praveen Achuthan Kutty as the Managing Director and Chief Mumbai
Executive Officer (CEO) of DCB Bank., signaling a tenure of three years Founded
starting from April 29, 2024, as outlined in the regulatory filing. 1930
Supreme Court Justice Prasanna B Varale, currently serving as the Chief Justice of the --
Karnataka High Court, will now become the third sitting judge from the
Dalit community in the Supreme Court. His appointment adds to the
diversity of the apex court, joining the ranks of Justice BR Gavai and
Justice CT Ravikumar.
VARNI After making a huge name in mobile accessories products; VARNI has VARNI
started the year 2024 with an amazing association with the cricketer started in
Ravindra Jadeja as the face of their brand. 2009
Comoros Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Azali Assoumani, on his re- Capital:
election as the Comoros President. Moroni
Azali Assoumani was re-elected as Comoros President for fourth term,
earlier this month.
Maharashtra The Maharashtra government appointed the 1988-batch Indian Police Capital:
Service officer Rashmi Shukla Director- General of Police. Ms. Shukla Mumbai
became the first woman police officer to hold the top police post in the
State.
European Nadia Calvino has been named the new president of the European ---
Investment Bank Investment Bank, taking office on January 1. She succeeds Werner
Hoyer to become the eighth president of the EU bank.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Notably, Calvino is the first woman and the first Spaniard to lead this
prestigious institution, marking a significant milestone in the bank’s
history.
Securities and The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) recently announced Founded:
Exchange Board of the appointment of G Ram Mohan Rao as Executive Director (ED) for a 12 April 1988
India tenure of three years.
National Asset In a surprising turn of events, P Santhosh, Chief General Manager at ---
Reconstruction Canara Bank, has been appointed as the Managing Director of National
Company Asset Reconstruction Company (NARCL) with effect from January 5,
succeeding Natarajan Sundar, who resigned from the post.
Indian Olympic The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has welcomed a seasoned Founded:
Association professional, Raghuram Iyer, as its new CEO, marking a significant 1927
development after a meticulous selection process conducted by the
nomination committee.
Asian Mr. Vikas Sheel, a seasoned bureaucrat, is now the Executive Director Founded:
Development Bank of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Manila, emphasizing India’s 19 December
commitment to international development. 1966
Supreme Court Justice B.R. Gavai has been nominated the new Chairman of the ---
Legal Services Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC). He replaces
Committee
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the top court’s senior-most judge after the
Chief Justice of India.
BIMSTEC In a significant development, Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey, a Founded:
seasoned diplomat from India, officially assumed the role of Secretary 1997
General (SG) of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral
Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
France Gabriel Attal is set to become France's next prime minister, as Capital: Paris
Emmanuel Macron seeks to revive his presidency with a fresh government.
PhonePe Walmart-owned fintech firm PhonePe has appointed Ritesh Pai as the CEO: Sameer
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its international payments business. Nigam
Insurance The government has appointed Rajay Kumar Sinha as the Whole-Time Founded:
Regulatory and Member (Finance and Investment) of the Insurance Regulatory and 1999
Development Development Authority of India (IRDAI) for a period of three years.
Authority of India He is currently serving as the Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer of SBI Capital Markets, the investment banking arm of the State
Bank of India. He also holds the position of Deputy Managing Director at
SBI, Corporate Centre, Mumbai.
World Trade The Indian government has named IAS officer Senthil Pandian as the Founded:
Organisation ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in Geneva. This 1 January
appointment follows the conclusion of Brajendra Navnit’s term as 1995
India’s ambassador to the WTO on March 31, 2024.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Union Public Sheel Vardhan Singh, the former Director General of the Central Founded:
Service Industrial Security Force (CISF), has been appointed as a member of the 1 October
Commission Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). 1926
Reserve Bank of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor Michael Debabrata Patra, Founded:
India who is in charge of monetary policy and is a member of the monetary policy 1 April 1935
committee, has been given a one-year extension ahead of the end of his
tenure.
PepsiCo India PepsiCo India, in a strategic realignment, has appointed Jagrut Kotecha ---
as its new CEO, succeeding Ahmed El Sheikh.
Kotecha, currently the Chief Commercial Officer for PepsiCo in

Africa, Middle East, and South Asia (AMESA), is set to take the helm of
PepsiCo India’s operations in March 2024.
Sashastra Seema Senior IPS officer Daljit Singh Chaudhary has been appointed as the Formed
Bal Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). 20 December
1963
Indian Navy Rear Admiral Upal Kundu, an esteemed alumnus of the Indian Naval Chief of the
Academy, has recently taken over as the Chief of Staff at the Southern Naval Staff:
Naval Command (SNC). This seasoned naval officer brings with him a (CNS)
wealth of experience and expertise, particularly in anti-submarine warfare Admiral R. Hari
(ASW). Kumar
RuPay Prime The RuPay Prime Volleyball League (PVL) has taken a significant stride ---
Volleyball League in its marketing and promotion efforts by appointing the acclaimed
Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan as the brand ambassador for its third
season. This development marks a notable merger of sports and
entertainment, promising to enhance the visibility and appeal of the league.
OBITUARIES
Name of Person Field Points to Remember
Prabir Majumdar Football Former India defender Prabir Majumdar passed away in Kolkata
on December 28, 2023.
Ved Prakash Legal scholar Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the passing away of
Nanda Professor reputed legal scholar Professor Ved Prakash Nanda.
Prof Ved Prakash Nanda was awarded with Padma Bhushan in

2018.
In 2006, He was honored with a $1 million founding gift from DU

alumni Doug and Mary Scrivner to launch the Ved Nanda Center
for International and Comparative Law.
N J Krishna Diplomat Former senior Indian Information Service officer Mrs N J Krishna
passed away. She was 81. She was also the Principal
Information Officer in the Press Information Bureau, Ministry

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
of Information and Broadcasting in the Government of India

between 1998 to 2002. A
Franz Beckenbaue Football Tributes have been paid to Franz Beckenbauer, widely regarded
as one of the finest footballers of all time, and one of only three
men to have won the World Cup as a player and manager,
following his death at the age of 78.
Ustad Rashid Khan Classical singer and Hindustani classical singer and music maestro Ustad Rashid
Music maestro Khan passed away in Kolkata.
Rashid Khan was born in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, and he

received his initial training from his maternal granduncle, Ustad
Nissar Hussain Khan (1909-1993). He joined the ITC Sangeet
Research Academy at the age of 14. By 1994, he was
acknowledged as a musician (a formal process) at the academy.
Pandit Hariram Poet, Lyricist and Noted Hindi and Bhojpuri poet, lyricist and litterateur Pandit
Litterateur Hariram 'Hari Bhaiya' Dwivedi passed away. He was 87.
Prabha Atre Singer Legendary classical singer and Padma Vibhushan recipient
Prabha Atre, considered the doyen of the Kirana gharana,
passed away in Pune, aged 92.
The much-feted Atre, who played a significant role in popularising
classical music across the globe, won the Padma Shri in 1990,
the Padma Bhushan in 2002 and the Padma Vibhushan in
2022, during a rich career spanning seven decades.
T.H. Musthafa Politician Congress leader and former Food and Civil Supplies Minister T.H.
Musthafa, 83, passed away in Kochi from age-related ailments.
He had served as the Minister in the Kerala government led

by K. Karunakaran from 1991 to 1995.
Munawwar Rana Poet Munawwar Rana, a celebrated Urdu poet, passed away in
Lucknow. He had been enduring a prolonged illness, including
throat cancer, kidney, and heart-related ailments.
Norman Jewison Director Norman Jewison, the Oscar-nominated director of "In the Heat of
the Night" and "Moonstruck" has died at the age of 97.
Oscar recognition came in 1966 with quirky comedy "The
Russians are Coming, the Russians are Coming," when he
scored a nomination for best picture.
Gigi Riva Football Gigi Riva, the all-time leading goalscorer for Italy men's national
team who was known as the “Rombo di Tuono” (Rumble of
Thunder), has died. He was 79.
P. Narsa Reddy Politics Senior Congress leader and former Andhra Pradesh Congress
Committee (APCC) chief P. Narsa Reddy passed away in
Hyderabad. He was 92.
Dr. Nitya Anand Medical Dr. Nitya Anand, who made the first oral contraceptive pill
‘Saheli’ in India, passed away at 99 in Lucknow.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Dr. Anand was in charge of the Central Drug Research Institute

(CDRI) from 1974 to 1984.
Dr. Anand got the Padma Shri award..
BOOKS
Book Title Author/s About the book
Four Stars of General Manoj In 2019, General Manoj Mukund Naravane became the
Destiny: An Mukund Naravane twenty-eighth Chief of the Indian Army. His journey to the
(Author) highest echelons of the Indian Armed Forces was not short of
Autobiography
events both exciting and challenging.
Pulse to Planet: K Srinath Reddy Through Pulse to Planet, leading public health expert K. Srinath
The Long Lifeline Reddy aims to promote this understanding to contribute to
building a healthier society for present and future
of Human Health
generations.
Field Marshal Sam Brigadier Behram Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was the Chief of the Indian
Maneskhaw: The Panthaki (Retired) Army from 1969 to 1973. This book is a reflection on Sam, his
and Zenobia character traits, sense of humor, moral and professional
Man and His Times
Panthaki courage and the enigma that made up his personality.
Conversations with Charu Nivedita “Conversations with Aurangzeb” is a novel by Tamil literary
Aurangzeb icon Charu Nivedita, translated into English by Nandini
Krishnan.
This book represents a unique fusion of historical narrative

and satirical commentary, offering readers a fresh
perspective on both historical and contemporary themes.
Assam's Arup Kumar Dutta Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister
Braveheart Lachit Amit Shah launched the book '"Assam's Braveheart Lachit
Barphukan Barphukan" written by Arup Kumar Dutta at the Srimanta
Sankardeva International Auditorium in Guwahati in presence
of Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma.
'A Promised Nation --- Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah
Hon'ble Shri launched a book titled, 'A Promised Nation Hon'ble Shri
Narendra Modi- Narendra Modi- the Maker of New India', written on the life
and works of PM Modi in Braille script in New Delhi.
the Maker of New
India'
SPORTS
In Men's Chess, Dommaraju Gukesh secures Candidates tournament, which will take place
spot at prestigious Candidates tournament in Toronto from April 2 to 25, 2024.
 Gukesh became the third Indian to make the
 In Men's Chess, Dommaraju Gukesh has Candidates tournament, joining R
secured his spot at the prestigious Praggnanandhaa and Vidit Gujrathi.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 This is the first time in history that three  Talented Indian teenager Anahat Singh
Indians are playing the Candidates. produced a dominant performance, bagging
the girls’ under-19 title at the 2023 Scottish
David Warner confirms his retirement from Junior Open squash held in Edinburgh.
ODIs as well as Tests  India’s Subhash Choudhary rallied to beat
compatriot Shiven Agarwal in the boys’ under-
 David Warner, the Australian cricketer, 15 final, while Shresht Iyer beat Shreyansh Jah
announced his retirement from One-day in an all-Indian boys’ under-13 final.
International (ODI) cricket.
 The veteran opener confirmed that the recent New integrated complex to host FIH Hockey5s
World Cup final against India marked his last World Cup qualifiers
50-over appearance for Australia.
 Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth receives
Nipane and Bindyarani lift National titles 'Hockey Oman,' an integrated complex which is
going to host FIH Hockey5s World Cup
 Abhishek Nipane pipped Achinta Sheuli for qualifiers before the Summer 2024 Olympic
the men’s 81kg gold medal in the National Games in Paris.
weightlifting championships at Itanagar.  Eight international teams to compete from
January 15 to 21, 2024, with three Olympic tickets
 Nipane lifted 310kg to beat Sheuli, the
at stake.
Commonwealth Games gold winner in 73kg, by
one kg.  The stadium will also host the Futsal Hockey
World Cup "Oman 2024" from January 24 to 31,
 The results:
2024.
Men: 81kg:
1. Abhishek Nipane (Mah) snatch 139kg, clean and
Koneru Humpy wins silver; Gujrathi finishes 4th
jerk 171kg, total 310kg; at Rapid Chess C'ship
2. Achinta Sheuli (SSCB) 141kg, 168kg, 309kg; 3.
Deepak Lather (Har) 144kg, 164kg, 308kg.  Koneru Humpy clinched a silver in the
women's individual event at the World Rapid
Women: 55kg: Chess Championship 2023, hosted in
1. Bindyarani Devi (RSPB) 81kg, 109kg, 190kg; Uzbekistan.
2. Sneha Soren (Odi) 82kg, 107kg, 189kg;  Koneru Humpy lost to International Master
3. Gauri Pandey (RSPB) 79kg, 105kg, 184kg. Anastasia Bodnaruk of Russia in a tie-break
sudden death on time to finish to concede the title.
Scottish Junior Open squash Anahat wins U-19  In the open section, Vidit Gujrathi finished
girls title fourth.
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports announced ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar’ 2023
 Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports announced ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar’ 2023.
 The awardees will receive their awards from the President of India at a specially organized function
at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 09th January, 2024.
 ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar’ is given to corporate entities (both in private and public sector),
Sports Control Boards, NGOs, including sports bodies at the State and National level, who have played
a visible role in the area of sports promotion and development.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The six core awards which constitute India’s National Sports Awards are the Major Dhyan Chand
Khel Ratna Award or simply the Khel Ratna, the Arjuna Award, the Dronacharya Award, the Major Dhyan
Chand Award, the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy, also called the MAKA Trophy, and the Rashtriya
Khel Protsahan Puruskar.
Name of Award: Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar 2023
S. No. Category Entity awarded for Rashtriya Khel

Protsahan Puruskar 2023
1. Identification and nurturing of budding / Jain Deemed to be University,

Bengaluru
young talent
2. Encouragement to sports through Odisha Mining Corporate Limited

Corporate Social Responsibility
Beatrice Chebet breaks 5 km world record in

Barcelona event FIH signs four-year partnership with Viacom18
to broadcast major hockey tournaments
 In a stunning race in Barcelona on the last day of
2023, Kenya's Beatrice Chebet set a new world  The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has
record for the women's 5 km marathon. signed a significant four-year media rights
 Chebet clocked a phenomenal 14:13 at the agreement with Viacom18, covering the period
Cursa dels Nassos, a World Athletics Label road from 2023 to 2027, excluding the FIH Nations Cup.
race, to better the previous record by six  The agreement includes broadcasting rights for
seconds. However, the record is still subject to various FIH events, such as the FIH Hockey
World Athletics’ usual ratification procedure and Olympic Qualifiers, the inaugural FIH Hockey5s
will be considered official only after that. World Cup, the FIH Hockey Pro League, and the
2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.
Learn Along:
Zverev-led Germany beat Swiatek’s Poland to About FIH
Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland
win United Cup
Founded: 7 January 1924
 Alexander Zverev secured a crucial victory for

Divyakriti Singh: India's first woman winning
Germany contributing to Germany's win over
top-seeded Poland in the United Cup final in Arjuna Award in Equestrian
Sydney.
 Iga Swiatek dominated Angelique Kerber  Divyakriti Singh, a 23-year-old equestrian from
showcasing her excellent form and extending her Jaipur, becomes the first Indian woman to
16-match win streak into the Australian Open. receive the Arjuna Award in the field of
Equestrian.
 Zverev partnered with Laura Siegemund,
winning the mixed doubles against Swiatek and  Divyakriti achieved an Individual Silver and two
Hurkacz, ultimately securing Germany's maiden Bronze medals at the International Dressage
United Cup title. Competition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, improving
upon her Asian Games scores.
Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 President Draupadi Murmu presented the  Assam wins 8 medals, including 5 golds;
Arjuna Award to Divyakriti Singh at a ceremony Lakshadweep secures gold in Beach Soccer,
at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. beating Maharashtra 5-4 in the final.
 Divyakriti is the second woman from Rajasthan  Games include Tug of War, Sea Swimming,
to win gold at the Asian Games, following Rahi Pencak Silat, Mallakhamb, Beach Volleyball,
Sarnobat. Beach Kabaddi, and Beach Soccer.
Largest Indian contingent for WTT Star India’s Yogesh Singh wins gold medal in men’s
Contender Goa 25m standard pistol event at Asian Shooting
Championships, Jakarta
 Sharath Kamal and G. Sathiyan, alongside 35
other Indian paddlers, are set to compete in the  In Shooting, India’s Yogesh Singh won a gold
singles qualifiers as the WTT Star Contender medal in the men’s 25m standard pistol event
Goa 2024 gears up to achieve the highest-ever at the Asian Shooting Championships 2024 in
Indian participation in a World Table Tennis Jakarta, Indonesia.
(WTT) event.  Mongolian shooter Davaakhuu Enkhtaivan
 The second edition of India’s biggest claimed the silver medal with the same score.
international table tennis tournament, co-
hosted by Stupa Sports Analytics and Ultimate Tata Group awarded IPL title rights for record
Table Tennis under the guidance of Table Tennis $300m
Federation of India, will be played at the Peddem
Indoor Stadium in Mapusa from January 23 to  Corporate behemoth Tata Group has again been
28. awarded title sponsorship rights of the Indian
 Nine Indians, including the highest world-ranked Premier League for five years, for a record sum
Indian paddler Manika Batra at 35, and Harmeet of $300 million.
Desai, have secured direct entry into the main  Tata already holds the title sponsorship for the
draw. IPL and the Women’s Premier League, which
 The 2023 World Championships doubles bronze staged its first tournament last year.
medallist Cho Dae-seong, 17-year-old Oh
Junsung from Korea and Hungarian paddler Carlos Sainz and Audi clinch Dakar 2024 victory
Bence Majoros are among the international
stars.  Audi makes history by winning the 2024 Dakar
Rally with the Audi RS Q e-tron, marking the first
BEACH GAMES 2024, DIU victory for the German automaker at the event.
 Carlos Sainz and Lucas Cruz secure the win
 The Beach Games 2024, the first multi-sports with a comfortable lead, driving the Audi RS Q
beach games in India, conclude at Ghoghla e-tron, the first car at Dakar powered by an
Beach in Diu. electrified powertrain.
 Madhya Pradesh emerges as the overall  Sainz and Cruz have previously won Dakar
champion, securing 18 medals, including 7 three times in 2010, 2018, and 2020.
golds.
 Maharashtra wins 14 medals, including 3 Sue Redfern is first ICC-appointed female neutral
golds; Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and hosts umpire for a bilateral series
Dadra, Nagar Haveli, Diu & Daman secure 12
medals each.  Seven female neutral umpires to officiate
across ICC Women’s Championship series

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
with match-day pay on par with umpires on the  As a result of this victory, Praggnanandhaa
Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires became only the second Indian after
 Sue Redfern will become the first International Vishwanathan Anand to defeat a reigning
Cricket Council-appointed female neutral champion.
umpire to stand in a bilateral series as she has  He also overtook Anand to become India's
been named for the upcoming ICC Women’s new number one Chess player in terms of live
Championship and T20I fixtures between ratings.
Australia and South Africa.
Cricket-ICC unveils 34,000-capacity modular
President of India inaugurates the 5th edition stadium in New York
of the Meghalaya Games
 The International Cricket Council (ICC) unveiled
 The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, a 34,000-seat modular stadium in New York for
inaugurated the 5th Edition of the Meghalaya eight matches of the T20 World Cup.
Games in Tura, Meghalaya.  The Nassau County International Cricket
 She highlighted the tremendous potential for Stadium will host the June 9 match between
sports development in the North East region, India and Pakistan.
citing its strong sports culture.  The venue, once completed, will be larger than
 India's sporting culture has developed any cricket venue in England and even surpass
immensely in recent years, with government the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
initiatives and programs like Khelo India
 ICC aims to make an impact in the lucrative
identifying and nurturing future sports
U.S. sports market, identifying at least 30 million
champions.
cricket fans in the country.
Shaun Marsh announces retirement from  The U.S. is co-hosting the tournament with
professional cricket West Indies, and the ICC promises a memorable
experience for American fans.
 Australian cricketer Shaun Marsh announced
his retirement from professional cricket, with Man Singh clinches gold medal
the Melbourne Renegades’ fixture against Sydney
Thunder in the Big Bash League on Wednesday  Man Singh became only the second Indian
being his last assignment. man to clinch a gold medal at the Asian
 Marsh also had a great stint with Australia across Marathon Championships.
formats, scoring more than 5,200 runs and 13  China's Huang Yongzheng took the silver
centuries, while his last outing for the Kangaroos while Kyrgyzstan’s Tiapkin Ilya came third.
was against Sri Lanka at The Oval during the 2019 In the women's marathon race
ODI World Cup.  Ashvini Madan Jadhav finished eighth while
Jyoti Gawate ended at 11th .
Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa surpasses
Viswanathan Anand to become India's number  Gopi Thonakal was the first Indian man to win
one Chess player the Asian Marathon Championships title in
2017 (Dongguan, China).
 India Chess Wizard Rameshbabu
Praggnanandhaa defeated World Chess Sumit Nagal Defeated Seeded Player at
Champion Ding Liren in the Tata Steel Australian Open
Masters in Wijk aan Zee, in the Netherlands
yesterday.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Sumit Nagal, by defeating Kazakhstan's  Grand Slam tournaments, also called majors,
Alexander Bublik in the opening round of the are the four most important annual tennis
Australian Open became the first Indian since events.
1989 to defeat a seeded player at a Grand Slam,  The Australian and United States
following Ramesh Krishnan's victory over Mats tournaments are played on hard courts, the
Wilander at the Australian Open. French on clay, and Wimbledon on grass.
Sreeja Akula wins maiden international table Achievement Award and Shubman Gill with the
tennis title at WTT Feeder Corpus Christi 2024 Cricketer of the Year award at the BCCI
Awards.
 Indian table tennis player Sreeja Akula won her  Following a memorable 12 months when he
maiden international title after securing top became the fastest to cross the 2000-run mark
podium in the women’s singles event at the in ODIs and also scored five hundreds in the
WTT Feeder Corpus Christi 2024 in Texas, USA. format.
 The 25-year-old Indian defeated world No. 46  The BCCI awards will be held for the first time
Lily Zhang of the USA, a three-time Olympian, 3- since the year 2019 and both India and England
teams are expected to be in attendance ahead of
0 (11-6, 18-16, 11-5) in the final, which lasted just
the first Test beginning here on Thursday.
over 30 minutes.
 Sreeja Akula, a two-time national champion, is Suryakumar is captain of ICC T20I Team
ranked 94th in women’s singles. of the Year
Gill, Shastri to get BCCI awards  Suryakumar Yadav has been named the
captain of the ICC men’s T20I Team of the
 Former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Year, which also includes three more Indians.
Shastri will be honoured with BCCI’s Lifetime

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 Among women, off-spinner Deepti Sharma is  Dilip Sardesai Award: Highest wickets in Test
the lone Indian to find a place in the 11- cricket: R. Ashwin (2022-23).
member side to be led by Sri Lanka’s Chamari

 Highest run-getter in ODIs: Women: Punam
Athapaththu. Raut (2019-20), Mithali Raj (2020-21),
The teams: Harmanpreet Kaur (2021-22), Jemimah
 Men: Jaiswal, Salt, Pooran (wk), Suryakumar Rodrigues (2022-23).
(Capt.), Chapman, Raza, Ramjani, Adair,  Highest wicket-taker in ODIs: Women: Poonam
Yadav (2019-20), Jhulan Goswami (2020-21),
Bishnoi, Ngarava, Arshdeep.
Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2021-22), Devika Vaidya
 Women: Athapaththu (Capt.), Mooney (wk),
(2022-23).
Wolvaardt, Matthews, Sciver-Brunt, Kerr, Perry,
Gardner, Deepti, Sophie, Schutt.  Best Umpire in domestic cricket: A.
Padmanabhan (2019-20), Vrinda Rathi (2020-21),
The BCCI Awards 2024 Jayaraman Madangopal (2021-22), Rohan Pandit
(2022-23).
 Former India cricketers Ravi Shastri and Farokh
 Best performance in BCCI domestic
Engineer were awarded the prestigious Col.
tournaments: Mumbai (2019-20), Madhya
C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award
Pradesh (2021-22), Saurashtra (2022-23).
during the Naman Awards.
 The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)  Lala Amarnath Award: Best all-rounder in Ranji
president Roger Binny and BCCI secretary Jay Trophy: M.B. Murasingh (2019-20), Shams Mulani
Shah presented the award to Shastri and
(2021-22), Saransh Jain (2022-23).
Engineer.
 Lala Amarnath Award: Best all-rounder in
The BCCI Awards 2024 winners’ list: Domestic Limited Overs: B. Aparajith (2019-20),
 Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award: R.R. Dhawan (2020-21, 2021-22), Riyan Parag
Men: Farokh Engineer, Ravi Shastri. (2022-23).
 Polly Umrigar Award: Best International
 Madhavrao Scindia Award: highest run-getter in
Cricketer: Men: Mohammad Shami (2019-20), R.
Ranji Trophy: Rahul Dalal (2019-20), Sarfaraz
Ashwin (2020-21), Jasprit Bumrah (2021-22),
Khan (2021-22), Mayank Agarwal (2022-23).
Shubman Gill (2022-23).
 Madhavrao Scindia Award: Highest wicket-taker
 Best International Cricketer: Women: Deepti
in Ranji Trophy: Jaydev Unadkat (2019-20),
Sharma (2019-20, 2022-23), Smriti Mandhana
Shams Mulani (2021-22), Jalaj Saxena (2022-23).
(2020-21, 2021-22).
 Best International Debut: Men: Mayank Agarwal
Madrid to host Spanish F1 GP from 2026 on 10-
(2019-20), Axar Patel (2020-21), Shreyas Iyer year deal
(2021-22), Yashaswi Jaiswal (2022-23).
 Best International Debut: Women: Priya Punia  Madrid will host the Spanish Formula One
(2019-20), Shafali Verma (2020-21), Sabbhineni Grand Prix from 2026 to 2035 on a new circuit
Meghana (2021-22), Amanjot Kaur (2022-23). around the IFEMA exhibition centre.
 The current host, Barcelona’s Circuit de
 Dilip Sardesai Award: Most runs in Test Catalunya, has a contract until after the 2026
cricket: Yashasvi Jaiswal (2022-23).

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
race, and discussions are ongoing about its  Bopanna is the oldest men's tennis player to
future. attain the world No.1 ranking in the sport's
history.
Man Singh Clinches Gold at the Asian
Marathon Championships 2024 in Hong Kong Sreeja Akula wins maiden international table
tennis title at WTT Feeder Corpus Christi 2024
 Man Singh became only the second Indian man
to clinch a gold medal at the Asian Marathon  Sreeja Akula won her maiden international title
Championships as he won the race with a in women's singles at WTT Feeder Corpus
personal best time. Christi 2024 in Texas, USA.
 The 34-year-old Man Singh clocked two hours, 14  The Indian table tennis player defeated world No.
minutes and 19 seconds (2:14:19) to win the 46 Lily Zhang of the USA in the final with a 3-0
competition. scoreline.
 China’s Huang Yongzheng took the silver with  Sreeja is a two-time national champion and is
a time of 2:15:24 while Kyrgyzstan’s Tiapkin Ilya ranked 94th in women's singles.
came third in 2:18:18.
India's Tanmay Agarwal sets world record for
fastest 300 in first-class cricket during Ranji
Australian Open 2024: Aryna Sabalenka clinches Trophy match
back-to-back titles
 India's Tanmay Agarwal became the fastest to
 Aryna Sabalenka clinched back-to-back score 300 runs in first-class cricket during the
Australian Open titles with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Ranji Trophy match (India's domestic first
Zheng Qinwen in women's final. class tournament) between Hyderabad and
 She was the first player in four decades to Arunachal Pradesh.
advance through six rounds without playing  The batter took only 147 balls to reach the triple-
anyone ranked in the top 50 and was only the ton mark, beating South Africa's Marco Marais
third in the Open era to reach a major fi who had scored 300 off 191 balls in 2017 while
playing for Border vs Eastern Province.
FIH Hockey5s Women’s World Cup
India's Roshibina Devi Naorem Wins Wushu
 India finished as runner-up at the inaugural Sanda Athlete Of The Year
edition of the FIH Hockey 5s Women’s World
Cup after a 7-2 loss to the Netherlands in the  Two-time Asian Games medallist Naorem
final in Muscat on Saturday. Roshibina Devi was named International
Wushu Federation's (IWUF) female athlete of
Rohan Bopanna becomes oldest World No. 1 the year in sanda category.
 The 23-year-old Roshibina, who won a bronze
 Rohan Bopanna achieved a career-high world and a silver in the 2018 and 2022 Asian Games.
No.1 ranking in men's doubles tennis at the age
of 43. Khelo India Winter Games 2024 mascot, snow
 He reached this milestone after advancing to the leopard ‘Sheen-e She’ (Shan) reveals
semi-finals of the men's doubles competition in
the Australian Open 2024 with partner Matthew
Ebden.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
 The mascot and logo of Khelo India Winter  The Union Territory of
Games 2024 were launched. Ladakh is making its
 The first part of the Winter Games, a mouth- debut as hosts this year
watering event for winter sports athletes, will be alongside the UT of
held in Union Territory of Ladakh for the first Jammu & Kashmir,
which has organised the
time from February 2-6.
Games from 2020.
 The second portion is scheduled in Gulmarg,
 Leh will be the venue for
Jammu & Kashmir from February 21-25.
the first part of the
 In keeping with the tradition and bio-diversity of Games from February 2-
the region, the mascot of the Khelo India
6..
Winter Games 2024 is a snow leopard. It has
been named ‘Sheen-e She’ or Shan in Ladakh Indian boxer Mandeep Jangra wins
region. intercontinental title in U.S.
 The logo of the Games, prominent with the Indian
tricolor, reflects the uniqueness of the  Indian boxer Mandeep Jangra won the U.S.-
picturesque land and the many sports that’s on based National Boxing Association's
the cards. The Games logo is complete with a intercontinental super featherweight title after
Dharmachakra (turning wheel of Dharma) on a defeating American Gerardo Esquivel at
hilltop in Chanspa in Leh, the venue of the Toppenish City, Washington.
Games.  Before the win against Esquivel, Jangra, who
Learn Along: made his professional boxing debut in 2021,
ABOUT KHELO INDIA WINTER GAMES 2024 registered knockout wins in four out of his six
 The Khelo India Winter Games 2024 is the fights.
fourth edition of the annual event in the Khelo  Jangra had a decent run in the amateur circuit as
India calendar. well and won a Commonwealth Games silver
medal in the 2014 Glasgow edition.

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024

Monthly BeePedia
January 2024
Sources of the News:
The Hindu,The Indian Express,Business Standard, The Financial Express ,PIB, etc.


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[Date]

RBI, Banking and Economy ___________________________________________ 2

SEBI and Financial Awareness _________________________________________ 17

NABARD and Agriculture ___________________________________________ 27

Reports and Indexes _______________________________________________ 64

Science and Technology ___________________________________________ 76

Awards & Rewards ___________________________________________________ 101

Appointments _____________________________________________________ 113

Obituaries ___________________________________________________ 115

Sports ___________________________________________________________ 117

Important Days _________________________________________________________ 123

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