DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS

By admin: June 15, 2023

U.S. Will Rejoin UNESCO in July

Tags: International News

The United States will rejoin UNESCO, the United Nations cultural organization, in July 2023.

An overview of the news

• The move ends Washington's more than ten-year dispute with the UN cultural agency after the US left UNESCO in 2018.

• US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma submitted a letter to UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay last week to formalize plans to rejoin.

• In addition, the US will also pay an outstanding balance of over $600 million.

America's reason for being out of UNESCO

• The United States exited UNESCO primarily due to the induction of Palestine as a member in 2011. 

• This move resulted in the US suspending its funding to the agency, which amounted to millions of dollars, during the presidency of Barack Obama.

• The reason behind the US halting funding was that Palestine is not recognized as a sovereign state by the United Nations. 

• While Palestine was granted non-member observer state status in 2012, enabling its participation in General Assembly proceedings, it did not possess voting rights.

Why did the USA rejoin UNESCO?

• The absence of the United States from UNESCO allowed China to gain greater influence within the organization.

• Recognizing the need to maintain a strong international presence and influence, the US has sought to re-engage to counter China's growing authority.

• By rejoining, the US is seeking to regain its role in shaping and influencing UNESCO's policies.

About UNESCO

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN).

• It is also a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UN SDG), a coalition of United Nations agencies and organisations that aims to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Headquarters:- Paris, France

• Director General: -Audrey Azoulay

• Founded:- 16 November 1945 in London, United Kingdom

• The organisation has -193 members and 11 associate members.

Tiger Safari in Ramgarh Reserve is expected to be open in July

Tags: Environment State News

The Forest Department is making preparations to launch a wildlife safari within the buffer zone of the recently established Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR) in Rajasthan's Bundi district.

An overview of the news

• By setting up wildlife safaris within the buffer zone of the tiger reserve, the forest department aims to promote eco-tourism and raise awareness about wildlife conservation.

• It will provide visitors a chance to see tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

• This will ensure the protection of wildlife and reduce the distress caused to the animals.

About Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR)

• Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary was designated as a tiger reserve on July 5, 2021, after receiving in-principle approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

• It is situated in the Bundi district of southeastern Rajasthan.

• It was initially established as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1982 under the Rajasthan Wild Animals and Birds Protection Act, 1951.

• The sanctuary comprises a core area of 481.9 sq. km and a buffer area of 1019.98 sq. km, providing ample space for wildlife conservation.

• Mez River, a tributary of the Chambal River, flows through the sanctuary, enhancing the ecological significance of the reserve.

Flora

• The habitat of Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary is predominantly characterized by Dhok trees (Anogeissus pendula), which play a significant role in shaping the landscape.

• Alongside Dhok, the sanctuary features a diverse range of important flora, including Khair, Ronj, Amaltas, Gurjan, Saler among others.

Fauna

• Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Jungle cats, Golden jackals, Hyenas, Crested porcupines, Indian hedgehogs, Rhesus macaques, Hanuman langurs.

• The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for the Indian Star tortoise (Geochelone elegans), contributing to its conservation efforts.

World Bank launches its first road safety project in South Asia

Tags: International News

The World Bank (WB) launched its first dedicated road safety project in South Asia with a USD 358 million financing agreement signed in Dhaka with the government of Bangladesh on 14th June. 

An overview of the news

• The project seeks to improve road safety and reduce fatalities and injuries from road crashes in selected cities, high-risk highways, and district roads

Implementation on National Highways

• The project will focus on two national highways in Bangladesh: Gazipur-Elenga (N4) and Natore-Nawabganj (N6). 

• These highways will serve as the primary sites for implementing various road safety measures. 

• The aim is to achieve a substantial reduction of over 30 percent in road traffic deaths on these two highways.

Infrastructure Enhancements

• To enhance road safety and reduce accidents and fatalities, the project will include the construction of essential infrastructure elements along the Gazipur-Elenga and Natore-Nawabganj highways. 

• These improvements will encompass the installation of road signs, dividers, footpaths, zebra crossings, speed breakers, and bus bays. 

• By implementing these measures, the project aims to create safer road environments in the five divisions of Bangladesh: Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi, Rangpur, and Mymensingh.

Emergency Services and Trauma Care

• The project will introduce innovative emergency services, including the use of bike-ambulances equipped with a toll-free number. 

• These services will ensure swift transportation of road crash victims to hospitals, improving their chances of receiving timely medical attention. 

• Additionally, trauma care facilities in selected district hospitals and Upazila Health Complexes will be upgraded to enhance the quality of care provided to accident victims.

Speed Control Measures and Institutional Strengthening

• To regulate speed and curb reckless driving, the project will install closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems along the roads and develop an electric messaging system. 

• It will also allocate resources for patrol vehicles and crash site cleaning equipment. 

• Furthermore, the project aims to support the Bangladeshi government in strengthening its institutions to effectively manage road safety across the country.

NTPC climbs up 52 positions to 433rd rank in Forbes’ “The Global 2000” List

Tags: Reports INDEX

NTPC Limited, India's largest power generation company, has made significant progress in Forbes' "The Global 2000" List for 2023, climbing 52 positions to reach the 433rd rank. 

An overview of the news

• This remarkable advancement showcases NTPC's growing influence and presence in the global market. 

• It is a testament to the company's consistent expansion, strong financial performance, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

• "The Global 2000" List compiled by Forbes acknowledges the world's largest companies based on four key metrics: sales, profits, assets, and market value.

• NTPC's significant climb in the rankings from the 485th position in 2022 to the 433rd position in 2023 underscores its exceptional performance across these metrics. 

• In addition to its global ranking, NTPC has also secured the 10th position among the largest Indian companies on the list, moving up one spot compared to the previous year. 

About NTPC

• NTPC formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation of India is owned by the Government of India. It was established in 1975.

• Vindhyachal Thermal Power Station in Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh, with an installed capacity of 4,760 MW, is currently the largest thermal power plant in India.

• It is a coal based power plant owned and operated by NTPC.

• The company had a total installed commercial capacity of 69454 MW before the JPL deal.

• Headquarters: New Delhi

• Chairman and Managing Director: Gurdeep Singh

5 buildings and structures from Telangana selected for International Green Apple Awards

Tags: Awards State News

Five buildings and structures from Telangana have been selected to receive the 'International Green Apple Awards for Beautiful Buildings' in the Urban and Real Estate Sector category. 

An overview of the news

• These awards are presented by 'The Green Organisation,' an independent non-profit organization based in London.

• This is the first time any building or structure in India has received these prestigious awards and all five nominated structures from Telangana have been recognised.

Selected buildings and constructions from Telangana

1. Mozzam-Jahi Market (Heritage category)

• This building has been acknowledged for its exceptional restoration and re-use. 

• The market holds historical significance and has been beautifully preserved and adapted for contemporary use.

2. Durgam Cheruvu Cable Bridge (Bridge category)

• The unique design of this cable bridge has earned it recognition. 

• It showcases innovative engineering and adds to the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding area.

3. B R Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat Building (Aesthetically designed office and workspace building category)

• This building stands out for its architectural beauty and well-thought-out design. 

• It provides an efficient and visually appealing workspace for government officials.

4. Integrated Command Control Centre of Telangana Police (Unique office category)

• This structure has been acknowledged for its uniqueness and functionality as a command and control center. 

• It incorporates advanced technology and serves as a hub for monitoring and managing various operations of the Telangana Police.

5. Yadadri Temple (Excellent religious structures category)

• The temple, dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, has been recognized for its excellence in religious architecture. 

• It showcases intricate craftsmanship and devotion to detail.

About Green Organization

• The Green Organization, founded in 1994 in London, is an independent non-profit organization that focuses on acknowledging, rewarding, and promoting environmental best practices globally. 

• Since 2016, they have been organizing the annual 'Green Apple Awards' in London, UK. 

• These awards aim to recognize and appreciate businesses, local authorities, and communities that demonstrate outstanding efforts in environmental sustainability. 

• One of the categories within these awards is the "International Beautiful Buildings Green Apple Awards," which specifically honors buildings that have a positive and visually appealing impact on their surroundings, among other criteria.

• The Green Apple Awards play a significant role in recognizing and encouraging environmentally responsible construction and design practices.

Women 20 summit begins at Mahabalipuram near Chennai

Tags: State News

The third and final working group of the summit on W-20 began at Mahabalipuram near Chennai.

An Overview of the News

• The conference also emphasised the importance of women's health and gender empowerment, and the role of families in supporting the rights of children.

• Emphasis was placed on the private sector to actively participate and contribute positively in gender-specific planning.

• The first session focused on the convergence of women's health, gender equality, and social and economic development in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

• The 2nd Women 20 (W20) International Meeting was held on 13 April in Jaipur, Rajasthan and the meeting was attended by 120 women leaders from 18 G20 countries.

About the G20

• It is an international forum of the world's leading economies established in 1999.

• Its primary objective is to promote international financial stability and sustainable economic growth.

• The G20 serves as a forum to discuss and coordinate policies related to a wide range of economic and financial issues such as trade, investment, employment, energy and climate change.

IOC partners with LanzaJet to set up aviation fuel plant in Haryana

Tags: State News

Indian Oil Corp (IOC) partnered with LanzaJet to set up an aviation fuel plant in Haryana.

An Overview of the News

• The aim of the collaboration is to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

• The investment for the aviation fuel plant is around 23 billion rupees ($280.1 million).

• IOC President S.M. Vaidya announced the partnership during an industry event in New Delhi.

• The collaboration promotes sustainable aviation solutions in India.

• It contributes to addressing the environmental impact of the aviation industry.

• Sustainable aviation fuel reduces greenhouse gas emissions and mitigates climate change.

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL):

• It is owned by the Government of India and operates as a Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

• Its headquarter is in New Delhi.

• It is a major government owned corporation and works as a public sector undertaking.

• Its operations are monitored and regulated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

• Establishment - 30 June 1959

Headquarters - New Delhi

Chairman - Shrikant Madhav Vaidya

RBI chief Shaktikanta Das named 'Governor of the Year' at Central Banking Awards in London

Tags: Economy/Finance Awards

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das was named 'Governor of the Year' at the Central Banking Awards in London.

An Overview of the News

• The award is presented by Central Banking, a leading organisation that covers matters related to central banks and financial regulators globally.

• The Central Banking Awards 2023 announced the winners at the end of March, the National Bank of Ukraine received the title of Central Bank of the Year.

• Shaktikanta Das, representing the Reserve Bank of India, was honoured with the Governor of the Year award at the event.

About Reserve Bank of India

• The RBI was established on April 1, 1935, as per the provisions of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

• The central office of the Reserve Bank was established in Kolkata which was permanently shifted to Mumbai in the year 1937.

• It was nationalised in 1949 and now the Government of India owns the RBI.

• It has the power to regulate banks under the Banking Regulation Act 1949.

• It has the power to regulate Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) under the RBI Act 1934.

• RBI is also the regulator of digital payment systems under the Payment and Settlement Act 2007.

Headquarters of RBI: Mumbai

RBI Governor: Shaktikanta Das

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day - 15 June

Tags: Important Days

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed annually on 15 June.

An Overview of the News

• The day aims to raise awareness about the abuse, discrimination and neglect experienced by older persons.

• It serves as a platform to emphasise the importance of upholding the rights of older adults and promoting their dignity.

• The theme for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2023 is "Closing the Circle: Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Older Age Policy, Law and Evidence-Based Responses."

• The theme focuses on highlighting the issue of gender-based violence among older persons.

History of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

• The United Nations officially established World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in 2011.

• June 15 was designated as the day to recognize the global issue of elder abuse and to promote the well-being of older adults.

United Nations General Assembly

• Establishment - 1945

• Headquarters - New York, United States

• Founder - United Nations

June 2023 Days and Themes

• World Blood Donor Day - 14 June - Theme - "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often."

• International Albinism Awareness Day - 13 June - Theme - "United in making our voices heard".

• World Day Against Child Labour - 12 June -  Theme - "Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!"

• World Accreditation Day - 9 June - Theme - "Accreditation: Supporting the Future of Global Business."

• World Oceans Day - 8 June - Theme - "Planet Ocean: The Tides Are Changing".

World Environment Day - 5 June - Theme - 'Solutions to plastic pollution'.

Mission Olympic Cell approves Mirabai Chanu, Bindayarani Devi's proposal to train in USA

Tags: Sports Person in news Sports News

The Mission Olympic Cell of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports approved Mirabai Chanu and Bindyarani Devi's proposal for an overseas training camp.

An Overview of the News

• Target Olympic Podium Scheme athletes Mirabai Chanu and Bindyarani Devi will train under the guidance of Dr. Aaron Horschig at Squat University in St. Louis, USA.

• The aim of the training camp is to focus on rehabilitation and strength training for the upcoming Asian Games.

• Mirabai Chanu, Bindayarani Devi, Indian head coach Vijay Sharma and physiotherapist Tesnim Zayed will be part of the camp and it will run for 65 days.

• The government will bear various expenses including air travel, boarding and lodging, medical insurance, local transport, gym fees and doctor's consultation.

About Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS):

• Launch: Tops was launched in September 2014 and got a facelift in April 2018.

• Objective: The objective of the scheme is to provide support and assistance to athletes for Olympic Games/ Paralympic Games and other major international tournaments to win medals.

• Support Services: TOPS provides financial support, training support, coaching, scientific and technical support, sports equipment and access to facilities.

• Collaboration: TOPS promotes coordination between sports federations, NSDF, SAI and other organisations.

• Goal: TOPS aims to help athletes excel in international competitions and bring glory to the nation.