1. 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
2. India's first hydrogen powered train will run from Jind district of Haryana
Tags: State News
India's first hydrogen-powered train will start its journey from Jind district of Haryana.
An Overview of the News
Hydrogen trains use fuel cells to convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity.
They offer a clean and eco-friendly alternative to diesel trains.
The initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions and tackle pollution.
Hydrogen-powered trains produce zero direct emissions, with water vapour being the only byproduct.
About Haryana
It is a state located in North India, which is bordered by New Delhi on three sides.
The eastern boundary of Haryana is formed by the Yamuna River, which separates it from the state of Uttar Pradesh.
It shares its western border with the state of Punjab.
Haryana has Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, which is located in Chandigarh.
Rock Garden is located in Chandigarh, which displays sculptures made using recycled materials.
Capital - Chandigarh
Governor - Bandaru Dattatreya
Chief Minister - Manohar Lal Khattar
Important Points
General Manager of Indian Railways - Shobhan Choudhary
Germany's 'Coradia iLint' is the world's first passenger train powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.
India's first green hydrogen plant has been commissioned by Oil India Limited (OIL) at Jorhat Pump Station in Assam.
3. Divya Kala Mela will be organised at Jaipur
Tags: Festivals State News
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) is organizing a special event called 'Divya Kala Mela' from June 29, 2023, to July 5, 2023, at Jawahar Kala Kendra in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
An overview of the news
This event aims to showcase the products and craftsmanship of entrepreneurs and artisans with disabilities from across the country.
The 'Divya Kala Mela' will offer visitors an exciting and vibrant experience with a wide range of products from different parts of the country.
These products will include handicrafts, handlooms, embroidery works, packaged food, and more.
The event provides a unique platform for marketing and showcasing the skills and products of individuals with disabilities.
This initiative by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities is part of their efforts towards the economic empowerment of people with disabilities.
The 'Divya Kala Mela' in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is the sixth event in a series that started in 2022, with previous editions held in Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Guwahati, and Indore.
Around 100 artisans, artists, and entrepreneurs with disabilities from approximately 20 states and Union Territories will participate in the event, presenting their products and skills.
The products will fall under various categories such as home decor and lifestyle, clothing, stationery and eco-friendly products, packaged food and organic products, toys and gifts, and personal accessories like jewelry and clutch bags.
4. Yogi Adityanath launched "Operation Conviction" in Uttar Pradesh
Tags: State News
Yogi Adityanath launches 'Operation Conviction' for cow slaughter in Uttar Pradesh
An Overview of the News
The program aims to convict 20 cases in each district within 30 days of framing of charges.
It focuses on crimes such as rape, murder, cow slaughter, religious conversion and offenses under the POCSO Act.
The initiative is aimed at expediting the conviction process and ensuring speedy punishment for criminals.
The emphasis is on immediate arrest to prevent suspects from evading legal process.
Strong evidence collection is a priority to strengthen the prosecution's case.
A thorough investigation will be conducted, including the examination of witnesses and the uncovering of organized crime networks.
Effective representation in courts for cases related to cow slaughter will be ensured.
POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses) Act:
This act was implemented in 2012.
This act has been mentioned in Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
About Uttar Pradesh
It is a state located in the northern part of India.
It has a population of over 240 million, making it the most populous state in India as well as the most populous subdivision in the world.
The state was officially established in 1950.
Chief Minister - Yogi Adityanath
Capital - Lucknow (Executive Branch)
Governor - Anandiben Patel
Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh - Vijay Kumar
5. QCI and Odisha Government launch Odisha Gunvatta Sankalp in Bhubaneswar
Tags: State News
The Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the Quality Council of India (QCI) and industry associations such as ASSOCHAM, FICCI, EEPC, OASME, PHDCCI, CIPET, and FHRAI, launched the Odisha Gunvatta Sankalp (Odisha Quality Mission) in Bhubaneswar.
An overview of the news
The inauguration of the Sankalp took place in the presence of Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena and Development Commissioner Smt Anu Garg.
The objective of the mission is to promote and prioritize quality across various sectors in the state of Odisha, creating an ecosystem of quality that contributes to the progress and empowerment of Odisha.
The launch of Odisha Gunvatta Sankalp aims to foster collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, practitioners, and academia to drive the culture of quality in Odisha.
The mission aspires to create a progressive and empowered Odisha by emphasizing the importance of quality in various sectors.
The collaboration between the Government of Odisha, QCI, and industry associations demonstrates a collective effort to prioritize and promote quality for the overall development of the state.
Quality Council of India (QCI)
The Quality Council of India (QCI), established in 1997 by the Government of India and the Indian industry, is the apex organization responsible for establishing and operating the third-party national accreditation system and improving quality across sectors.
QCI has constituent Boards that provide accreditation in specific areas such as NABL for labs, NABH for hospitals, NABCB for certification and inspection bodies, and NABET for education and training.
QCI also runs the national quality campaign through its National Board for Quality Promotion.
The Chairperson of QCI, nominated by the Prime Minister of India, is Jaxay Shah, CMD of Savvy Group of Companies.
6. Telangana Govt begins distributing financial assistance to farmers under Rythu Bandhu Scheme in state
Tags: Government Schemes State News
The Telangana Government has initiated the distribution of financial assistance to farmers for the Kharif season under the Rythu Bandhu Scheme.
An overview of the news
On the first day of distribution, an amount exceeding 640 crore rupees was directly deposited into the bank accounts of more than 22 lakh 55 thousand farmers who own less than one acre of land.
According to official data, the 11th edition of the scheme will provide financial assistance totaling over 7720 crore rupees to around 70 lakh farmers for their Kharif crop.
The Rythu Bandhu Scheme has, so far, contributed a cumulative amount of 72,910 crore rupees to farmers' accounts.
Approximately five lakh new beneficiaries, including 1.5 lakh Podu farmers who own 4 lakh acres of Podu lands, will receive 10 thousand rupees per acre per year under the scheme.
This additional support for Podu farmers will amount to around 300 crore rupees, which will be borne by the government exchequer.
Podu cultivation is a form of shifting cultivation commonly practiced by tribes residing in the forests of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, involving techniques like slash and burn.
What is the Rythu Bandhu scheme?
The Rythu Bandhu scheme is a program implemented by the Telangana government.
The term "Rythu Bandhu" translates to "Friend of Farmer" in English.
The scheme provides financial assistance to land-owning farmers in Telangana.
The support is given at the beginning of the crop season through direct benefit transfer.
The announcement of the Rythu Bandhu scheme was made by the Chief Minister of Telangana in February 2018.
This scheme is the first of its kind in India, as it directly transfers cash to farmers as an investment support.
The objective of the scheme is to alleviate the financial burden on farmers and provide them with necessary funds for agricultural activities.
7. Assam's first underwater tunnel to be constructed between Numaligarh and Gohpur
Tags: State News
The first underwater tunnel in Assam will be constructed between Numaligarh and Gohpur at an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crore.
An overview of the news
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the tender for the preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) will open in the next month.
The idea of an underwater tunnel arose from the many bridges built over the Brahmaputra River to facilitate the movement of both vehicles and railways.
Discussions were held to determine the location and it was decided that the tunnel would be built between Numaligarh and Gohpur.
The tender for the DPR will open on July 4 and Sarma expressed hope that work on the tunnel could begin during his tenure as chief minister.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the project, and once the tunnel is completed, it will bring the two banks, north and south, of the Brahmaputra river closer together.
About Assam State
Chief Minister - Himanta Biswa Sarma
Governor - Gulab Chand Kataria
Number of Districts - 33
Lok Sabha seats - 14
Rajya Sabha seats - 7
State Animal - Indian Rhinoceros
State Bird - White Winged Duck
National Parks – Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Nameri National Park, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park
8. Union Environment Ministry gives final nod for 'Kalaignar Pen Monument' in Bay of Bengal
Tags: place in news State News
The Union Environment Ministry granted Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) approval to the Tamil Nadu government's proposal to build the Muthmiz Arignar Dr Kalaignar Pen Monument in the Bay of Bengal, off Marina beach in Chennai, with 15 conditions.
An Overview of the News
In its letter to the Public Works Department (PWD) dated 19 June 2023, the Union ministry said the approval was given based on the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee (CRZ) and the Tamil Nadu Coastal Zone Management Authority.
Environmental statement to be submitted to Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board every year and compliance status to be uploaded on PWD website.
About Dr. Kalaignar Pain Monument
The Dr. Kalaignar Pain Monument is a proposed offshore memorial and is dedicated to Late M. Karunanidhi, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
Karunanidhi was a prolific writer, poet and orator, known as Kalaignar (artist).
He wrote over 100 books including novels, short stories, biographies, essays and memoirs.
The memorial will symbolize his contribution to Tamil literature, culture and his political legacy.
The project was announced in 2022.
9. Launch of 'Legal Aid Defense Counseling System (LADCS)'
Tags: State News
The Uttar Pradesh government launched the 'Legal Aid Defense Counseling System (LADCS)' on 22 June 2023.
An Overview of the News
LADCS is implemented under Uttar Pradesh State Legal Services Authority.
This program will be effective for two years.
Objective of LADCS:
LADCS aims to provide free legal aid to the needy, especially in criminal matters.
This program operates in districts or headquarters under Uttar Pradesh.
Legal Aid Services:
LADCS offers representation, trial and appeal in all Sessions, Special, Magistrate and Executive Courts.
The primary focus is on providing legal aid services in criminal matters.
Legal Advice and Assistance:
LADCS provides legal advice and assistance to persons appearing in the District Court/Office for their defence.
This provision ensures guidance and support throughout the legal process.
Appeal in Criminal Cases:
LADCS assists individuals in filing appeals at various stages of criminal cases.
It includes pre-arrest, post-arrest, bail, trial and remand phases.
This assistance is provided under the National Legal Services Authority scheme.
Benefits of LADCS (Legal Aid and Community Development Scheme):
Direct benefits to SC/ST and victims of illegal acts
Assistance to Industrial Workers
Assistance to people in police custody
Assistance to persons affected by disasters (ethnic violence, flood, drought, earthquake, industrial disaster)
Support for mentally ill persons (in safe homes, mental hospitals or nursing homes)
Inclusion of low income individuals (annual income < ₹3,00,000).
About Uttar Pradesh
It is a state located in the northern part of India.
It has a population of over 240 million, making it the most populous state in India as well as the most populous subdivision in the world.
The state was officially established in 1950.
Chief Minister - Yogi Adityanath
Capital - Lucknow (Executive Branch)
Governor - Anandiben Patel
Rajya Sabha - 31 seats
Lok Sabha - 80 seats
10. REC to provide ₹3,045 cr finance to Bangalore Metro
Tags: Economy/Finance State News
REC Limited, a Public Sector Enterprise under the Union Ministry of Power, has announced its decision to provide financial assistance of Rs 3,045 crore to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) for the Phase-II project of Bangalore Metro.
An overview of the news
The assistance was approved by the REC Board during a meeting. The Ministry of Power released a statement confirming the extension of financial support to BMRCL.
Phase-II project of Namma Metro
The Phase-II project of Namma Metro includes the extension of the existing East-West Corridor and North-South Corridor of Phase-I, as well as the addition of two new lines: RV Road to Bommasandra and Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara.
These new metro lines will help alleviate traffic congestion in high-traffic areas of Bangalore.
Upon completion of Phase-II, the Namma Metro network will cover a total distance of 114.39 km and have 101 stations.
About REC Limited
REC Limited, as a non-banking financial company (NBFC) focused on power sector financing and development, is expanding its involvement in funding infrastructure development by providing financial assistance to BMRCL.
REC Ltd offers financial support for various types of projects in the power sector, including generation, transmission, distribution, and renewable energy.
In its fiscal fourth quarter results, REC reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 3,065.37 crore for the quarter ending March 2023, marking a 33% increase compared to the same quarter last year.
The company's total revenue from operations stood at Rs 10,243.06 crore, reflecting a 6.3% growth compared to the previous year's corresponding period.
Total expenses for the quarter were Rs 6,353.40 crore, a decrease of 6.5% compared to the previous year.