DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS

By admin: June 29, 2023

Union Cabinet approved PM-PRANAM scheme

Tags: Economy/Finance National News

The Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 28 June approved the PM-PRANAM Scheme. 

An overview of the news

• The scheme is aimed at incentivising states to use alternative, non-chemical fertilisers.

• The cavinet also decided to continue the current urea subsidy for three years starting FY23, with an outlay of Rs 3.68 trillion.

About PM-PRANAM Scheme

• The full name of PM PRANAM is Promotion of Alternative Nutrients for Agriculture Management Scheme.

• Aim of the Scheme :

• to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers

• Reducing the subsidy burden on chemical fertilisers, which is projected to reach Rs 2.25 lakh crore in 2022-23 - 39 per cent more than last year's figure of Rs 1.62 lakh crore.

• 70 percent of the grant provided under the scheme can be used for asset creation related to technology adoption of alternative fertilizers and alternative fertilizer production units at village, block and district level.

Introduction of sulphur-coated urea (Urea Gold)

• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has made a significant decision to introduce sulphur-coated urea, also known as Urea Gold, in the country. 

• This move aims to address the issue of sulphur deficiency in the soil.

• Sulphur-coated urea offers a more economical and efficient solution compared to other types of urea available in the market. 

• It provides a higher nitrogen absorption rate, leading to better crop productivity.

• Conventional urea typically has a nitrogen absorption rate of around 30%. 

• Neem-coated urea, which is another alternative, offers a higher absorption rate of 50%. 

UN chief appoints Xu Haoliang of China as deputy head of UNDP

Tags: Person in news International News

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has announced the appointment of Xu Haoliang from China as the new Undersecretary-General and Associate Administrator of the UN Development Programme (UNDP). 

An overview of the news

• Xu Haoliang will succeed Usha Rao-Monari from India in this role. 

• Xu has been serving as the UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support at the UNDP since 2019. 

• Prior to that, from 2013 to 2019, he held the position of UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific.

• He has worked in various capacities within the United Nations, undertaking assignments both in the field and at headquarters in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Central Asia. 

• Before joining the United Nations, Xu worked in the field of civil engineering in China and the United States. 

• His academic qualifications include a bachelor's degree in engineering from Tongji University in China, a master's degree in management science from the Stevens Institute of Technology in the United States, and a master's degree in international affairs from Columbia University. 

• Xu is proficient in Chinese, English, and Russian.

About The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) 

• It is the leading agency of the United Nations.

• It works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality in 170 countries and territories.

• It helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and to build resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. 

• Its work is concentrated in three focus areas; sustainable development, democratic governance and peace building, and climate and disaster resilience.

DoT announces ‘5G & Beyond Hackathon 2023’

Tags: National News

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has been actively organizing Hackathons to foster the development of 5G products and solutions. 

An overview of the news

• These initiatives have led to the creation of innovative 5G products and solutions across various technological verticals.

• In continuation of these efforts, the DoT has announced the commencement of applications for the '5G & Beyond Hackathon 2023' from June 28, 2023. 

• The primary objective of this hackathon is to identify cutting-edge ideas with a focus on India, which can be transformed into practical and effective 5G and beyond products and solutions. 

• A total prize pool of Rs one crore will be distributed among one hundred winners of the hackathon.

• Additionally, the winners will have the unique opportunity to receive guidance from mentors representing the government, industry, academia, Telcos/OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), and other relevant stakeholders. 

• The aim is to promote the exploration of these domains and harness the potential of 5G technology in addressing real-world challenges.

• The 5G & Beyond Hackathon is open to individuals, students, start-ups, and academic institutions across India. 

Canada launches 'Digital Nomad Strategy' for foreign workers

Tags: International News

Canada launched the "Digital Nomad Strategy" to address its skilled labour shortage, particularly in the tech industry.

An Overview of the News

• The strategy aims to attract talented individuals from around the world.

• The shortage of skilled workers, particularly in the tech industry, has prompted Canada to take proactive measures.

• The announcement was made during Collision's technical conference in Toronto.

• The strategy focuses primarily on the technology industry, recognizing its importance in driving innovation and economic growth.

Digital Nomad Strategy

• Foreign workers are allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months under the Digital Nomad Strategy.

• If digital nomads receive job offers during their stay, they have the option of extending their time in the country.

• The strategy aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in Canada's tech sector.

• Digital nomads can continue their remote working arrangements while living in Canada.

• This strategy encourages networking and collaboration between foreign workers, local professionals and Canadian businesses.

About Canada

• Capital - Ottawa

• Currency - Canadian Dollar

• Official languages - English and French

• National Symbol - Maple Leaf

• Prime Minister - Justin Trudeau

Cabinet approves Introduction of National Research Foundation Bill, 2023

Tags: National National News

The Union Cabinet on 28th June under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the introduction of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023 in the Parliament. 

An overview of the news

• This bill will facilitate the establishment of NRF, which will play a pivotal role in nurturing and advancing Research and Development (R&D) efforts and fostering a culture of research and innovation across universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories in India.

• The key objective of NRF is to create a policy framework and regulatory processes that stimulate collaboration and increased investment by industries in R&D endeavors.

• Once the bill is approved by Parliament, NRF will be established as an apex body, aligning with the recommendations outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP). 

• The estimated total cost for NRF's operations over a span of five years (2023-28) is projected to be Rs 50,000 crore.

Administrative responsibilities of NRF

• The administrative responsibilities of NRF will be overseen by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). 

• A distinguished Governing Board, comprising renowned researchers and professionals from various disciplines, will govern the NRF. 

• The Prime Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board, while the Union Minister of Science & Technology and Union Minister of Education will act as the ex-officio Vice-Presidents. 

• Additionally, an Executive Council, chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, will govern NRF's day-to-day operations.

Functions of NRF

• NRF will focus on fostering collaborations among academia, industry, government departments, and research institutions. 

• It will establish an interface mechanism to encourage active participation and contribution from industries and state governments, in addition to scientific and line ministries. 

• Moreover, the bill will entail the repeal of the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), established in 2008 through an act of Parliament. 

• This legislative move highlights the government's commitment to promoting research, development, and innovation in India. 

Cabinet approves ratification of HQA between India and CDRI

Tags: National News

Cabinet approves ratification of the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) between India and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)

An Overview of the News

• The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the ratification of the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) between the Government of India (GoI) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) signed on August 22, 2022.

• Headquarters grants exemptions, immunities and privileges to CDRI.

• This gives CDRI an independent and international legal personality.

Launch and Objectives of CDRI

• The CDRI was launched by the Prime Minister of India during the United Nations Climate Action Summit on September 23, 2019.

• CDRI is a major global initiative aimed at climate change and disaster resilience.

CDRI setup and support

• The cabinet approved the setting up of CDRI on August 28, 2019.

• The Subsidiary Secretariat of CDRI is located in New Delhi.

• Government of India provides financial assistance of Rs 480 crore to CDRI over a period of 5 years (2019-20 to 2023-24).

Recognition of CDRI as an International Organization

• On June 29, 2022, the cabinet approved the recognition of CDRI as an international organization.

• The Headquarters Agreement (HQA) facilitates these benefits under the United Nations (P&I) Act, 1947.

CDRI's Global Partnership and Objectives

• CDRI is a global partnership that includes national governments, United Nations agencies, multilateral development banks, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and knowledge centers.

• CDRI aims to promote the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks.

• Its objective is to ensure sustainable development.

Membership and expansion of CDRI

• CDRI has attracted 31 countries, 6 international organizations and 2 private sector organizations as members.

• Membership includes economically advanced countries, developing countries and countries vulnerable to climate change and disasters.

• CDRI is continuously expanding its membership to include various countries.

Diksha Dagar wins her second Ladies European Tour title at the Czech Ladies Open

Tags: Sports

22-year-old left-handed golfer Diksha Dagar from Jhajjar, Haryana claimed her second Ladies European Tour (LET) title at the Czech Ladies Open at the Royal Beroun Golf Club.

An Overview of the News

• She became the second Indian woman to win a Ladies European Tour event

• Diksha had earlier won her maiden LET title at the Investec South African Women's Open in 2019 and was also part of the winning team at the Aramco Team Series in London in 2021.

• The Czech Ladies Open is a professional golf tournament on the Ladies European Tour, first played in 2019.

• Aditi Ashok became the first Indian to win the LET at the Hero Women's Indian Open in 2016.

• In 2023, Aditi won the Magical Kenya Ladies, making her the first Indian to win that season.

Ladies European Tour (LET):

• It was founded in 1978 as a professional golf tour exclusively for women.

• The LET is headquartered at Buckinghamshire Golf Club near London, England.

• The tour attracts female golfers from around the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania.

• The LET organizes a series of tournaments throughout the year at various golf courses in different countries.

• CEO - Alexandra Armas

Kolkata Team Emerges Victorious in Historic Dubai Women's Kabaddi Final

Tags: Sports Sports News

Dubai created history by hosting the world's first International Women's Kabaddi Final which saw the Punjab Panthers vs Uma Kolkata contest on 28 June.

An overview of the news

• The match concluded with Uma Kolkata emerging as champions and securing a grand prize of ₹10,000,000.

• All the matches were held at the 'Shabab Al-Ahli' sports club in Dubai. Matches were played from 16 June to 27 June.

• The Punjab team showcased commendable skills and secured the second position, receiving a prize of ₹5,000,000.

• The tournament spanned 12 days and witnessed the participation of eight teams representing different states in India.

• The Women's Kabaddi League played a crucial role in successfully organizing the event and bringing it to fruition.

• This historic tournament provided a global platform for women Kabaddi players from India to showcase their skills and talent.

• The participating teams represented different Indian states, including the Delhi Dynamites, Gujarat Angels, Great Marathas, Haryana Hustlers, Punjab Panthers, Rajasthan Riders, Uma Kolkata, and Bengaluru Hawks.

Gujarat government signs MoU with Micron Technology for semiconductor assembly and test facility

Tags: State News

Gujarat government signs MoU with US chip maker firm Micron Technology for semiconductor assembly and testing facility in Ahmedabad

An Overview of the News

• The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnav.

• The semiconductor assembly and testing facility will be located at Sanand in Ahmedabad district.

• The Central Government will provide 50 per cent financial assistance towards the total project cost.

• The State Government of Gujarat will provide an incentive of 20 per cent of the total project cost.

• The Semiconductor Assembly and Test Plant will generate 5,000 direct employment opportunities.

Micron Technology:

• Micron Technology, Inc. is an American manufacturer of computer memory and computer data storage.

• Their product portfolio includes dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), flash memory, and USB flash drives.

• Micron markets its consumer products, such as memory modules, under the Crucial brand.

• Micron and Intel collaborated to form IM Flash Technologies, which focused on the production of NAND flash memory.

• Micron owned Lexar between 2006 and 2017, further expanding its presence in the flash memory market.

• Establishment - October 5, 1978

• Founders - Ward Parkinson, Joe Parkinson, Dennis Wilson and Doug Pittman

• Headquarters - Boise Idaho

About Gujarat

• Capital - Gandhinagar

• Chief Minister - Bhupendra Bhai Patel

• Governor - Acharya Devvrat

17th Indian Cooperative Congress

Tags: Summits National News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 17th Indian Cooperative Congress (ICC) on the 1st July at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.

An overview of the news

• The National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) is organizing the two-day event with the theme "Amrit Kaal: Prosperity through Cooperation for a Vibrant India."

• The Union Home and Cooperation Minister, Amit Shah, will chair the congress.

• The Indian Cooperative Congress aims to discuss various trends in the cooperative movement, showcase best practices adopted by successful cooperatives, and deliberate on the challenges faced by the cooperative world.

• An exhibition will also be held during the congress, showcasing various products of Self-Help Groups and NCUI Cooperative Education Field Projects under the banner of NCUI HAAT.

• The event is expected to connect approximately five crore members live during the congress.

About National Cooperative Union of India

• It is the apex organization representing the entire cooperative movement in India.

• It was established in 1929 as the All India Cooperative Institutes Association.

• Through the merger of the Indian Provincial Cooperative Banks' Association with the All India Cooperative Institutes Association, it was reorganized as the Indian Cooperative Union. 

• In 1961, it took on its current name as the National Cooperative Union of India.

• Since its inception, the NCUI has been at the forefront of the cooperative movement in India, acting as a torchbearer.

• The NCUI plays a vital role in promoting and supporting cooperative initiatives throughout the country.

Union Cabinet approves highest ever Fair and Remunerative Price for Sugarcane Farmers

Tags: Economy/Finance National News

The Union Cabinet on 28th June has approved a fair and remunerative price of 315 rupees per quintal for sugarcane farmers for the season 2023-24. 

An overview of the news

• This decision is aimed at benefiting five crore sugarcane farmers and their dependents, as well as five lakh workers employed in the sugar mills and related ancillary activities. 

• It is important to note that this price is the highest ever offered to sugarcane farmers, demonstrating the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector.

National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023

• The government has decided to introduce the NRF Bill, 2023, which aims to strengthen the research ecosystem in the country. 

• The Union Cabinet has approved this bill, which will establish the NRF as an apex body responsible for seeding, growing, and promoting research and development. 

• The bill intends to foster a culture of research and innovation throughout India's universities, colleges, and research institutions.

Objectives of NRF

• The NRF will provide high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India. 

• Over the next five years, the NRF is expected to receive a total estimated cost of 50 thousand crore rupees. 

• By repealing the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) established in 2008, the NRF will take on an expanded mandate, covering activities beyond those of SERB. 

• This will enable the NRF to forge collaborations among industry, academia, government departments, and research institutions.

Collaboration and Participation

• The NRF will create an interface mechanism to facilitate the participation and contribution of industries, state governments, scientific ministries, and line ministries in research activities. 

• By encouraging collaboration between different stakeholders, such as industry, academia, and government, the NRF aims to enhance the impact of scientific research and promote innovation.

National Statistics Day - 29 June

Tags: Important Days

National Statistics Day is observed annually on 29 June to honour the contribution of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in statistics and economic planning.

An Overview of the News

• Professor Mahalanobis, known as the 'Father of Indian Statistics', developed the Mahalanobis distance, a statistical measure to assess the difference between a point and a distribution.

• The program of National Statistics Day 2023 will be organised at SCOPE Convention Centre, SCOPE Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi.

• Rao Inderjit Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation will be the chief guest on the occasion.

Theme of National Statistics Day 2023

• Its theme is "Aligning the State Indicator Framework with the National Indicator Framework for Monitoring the Sustainable Development Goals".

• The theme highlights the importance of synchronising the indicator framework used by states with the national framework to monitor and evaluate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

History of National Statistics Day

• The Government of India designated 29 June as National Statistics Day on 5 June 2007.

• The designation was given to acknowledge the significant contributions of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the field of statistics and economic planning.

• The first celebration of National Statistics Day took place on 29 June 2007.

• Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis was a prominent figure who played a key role in the first Planning Commission of India.

• He was instrumental in the establishment of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931.

• The day is celebrated as a tribute to Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis and his remarkable contribution in the field of statistics.

About Indian Statistical Institute

• Director - Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay

• Headquarters - Kolkata

• Establishment - 17 December 1931