1. First Over Dimensional Cargo for Numaligarh Refinery received by Sarbananda Sonowal
Tags: National National News
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal received the first over dimensional cargo (ODC) transported via waterways at Numaligarh Refinery jetty (Assam) on 16th June.
An overview of the news
The ODC was transported by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) vessel MV Marine 66 from Kolkata to Numaligarh Refinery Jetty via Indo Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR).
The Diesel Hydrotreating (DHT) reactor had a net weight of 485 MT, while the gross weight was 521 MT.
The length of this reactor is 31.5 m while the height is 8.250 m and the diameter is 8.00 m.
This is the first consignment transported by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the nodal agency in charge of inland waterways in the country, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, to augment the capacity of Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) from 3 MMT to 9 MMT.
The MoU for transportation of Over Weight Cargo (OWC) with a total of 24 ODCs for NRL was signed between IWAI and NRL last year.
Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI)
IWAI is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Government of India.
It plays a crucial role in the development, maintenance, and regulation of the country's inland waterways.
It was established on 27th October 1986.
Its headquarters is located in Noida, UP.
2. Dugdh Sankalan Sathi Mobile App
Tags: National National News
Union Minister of Heavy Industries Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey unveiled the "Dugdh Sanakalan Sathi Mobile App" on 16th June at Mussorie, Uttarakhand.
An overview of the news
This innovative application has been developed by Rajasthan Electronics & Instruments Limited (REIL), located in Jaipur.
REIL is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Heavy Industries and holds the prestigious "Mini Ratna" status.
Objective of the app
Its primary objective is to enhance milk quality, promote transparency among stakeholders, and streamline operations at the village level, particularly within Milk Cooperative Societies.
Key features and benefits of the app
Increased transparency among stakeholders
Online monitoring of daily milk kept in milk cooperatives
Real-time milk price updates from cloud servers, ensuring transparency and eliminating human errors
Direct transfer of milk payment and government subsidy to the bank accounts of beneficiary milk producers through the app
Notifications in English, Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu and other languages on milk producers' app for milk collection
Importance of app
The app is poised to make a significant impact on the Indian dairy industry by addressing critical challenges in the milk collection process.
The 'Dudgh Sankalp Sathi' mobile app will provide transparency, efficiency and empowerment to all the participants involved in the milk collection process.
This will benefit the milk producers and contribute to the development of the dairy sector.
3. Nehru Memorial Museum and Library Society renamed as Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library Society
Tags: National National News
The Nehru Memorial Museum and Library Society (NMML) in New Delhi has been officially renamed as the Prime Ministers' Museum and Library Society.
An overview of the news
A decision in this regard was taken during a special meeting of the NMML Society presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who is its Vice-President.
The idea of setting up a museum dedicated to all the prime ministers of India at the Teen Murti complex in New Delhi was initially proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016.
The NMML Executive Council approved the construction of the museum within Teen Murti Estate, and the project was completed.
The museum, which was opened to the public in April 2022, presents a comprehensive portrayal of the Prime Ministers' contribution to the nation.
About Nehru Memorial Museum and Library
It was established in 1964 in the memory of Jawaharlal Nehru (1889-1964).
It is an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
It is located in Teen Murti House, the official residence of the first Prime Minister of India.
It has four major components, a Memorial Museum, a Library on Modern India, a Center for Contemporary Studies and the Nehru Planetarium.
It is a specialised library designed and developed as an exclusive research and reference centre on colonial and post-colonial India. It has a rich manuscript section.
4. Defence Ministry signs Rs 500 crore contract to strengthen Indian Army’s communication system
Tags: Defence National News
In a significant move to promote indigenous manufacturing and support the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with ICOMM Tele Limited, Hyderabad, on June 15, 2023, in New Delhi.
An overview of the news
The contract is for the procurement of 1,035 units of 5/7.5 Ton Radio Relay Communication equipment containers, with a contract value of approximately Rs 500 crore.
The delivery of these containers is scheduled to commence in the current financial year 2023-24.
The acquisition of these Radio Relay Containers fulfills a long-pending requirement for mobile communication detachments of the Indian Army.
These containers will play a crucial role in providing a protected environment for communication equipment, ensuring its efficient and reliable functioning.
To support the indigenous manufacturing of defence equipment, the company, ICOMM Tele Limited, will produce these containers using equipment and systems sourced entirely from indigenous manufacturers.
Significance of MoU
This approach will not only enhance domestic production capabilities but also encourage the active participation of the private sector in achieving the goals of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
By investing in domestic manufacturing and promoting self-reliance in the defence sector, the Ministry of Defence aims to strengthen India's defence capabilities while reducing dependency on foreign imports.
This contract marks a significant step towards achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and stimulating the growth of the indigenous defence industry.
5. UNGA adopts Resolution to establish a new Memorial Wall for fallen Peacekeepers
Tags: International News
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) recently unanimously adopted a resolution to set up a new memorial wall for dead peacekeepers, which was moved by India.
An overview of the news
The adoption of this resolution is a significant achievement for India and reflects the confidence of the international community in India's contribution and intention.
India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj presented the draft resolution titled 'Memorial Wall for Fallen United Nations Peacekeepers' at the UN General Assembly Hall.
The resolution received widespread support and a record 190 co-sponsorships, demonstrating global recognition of India's efforts in peacekeeping.
About the Memorial Wall
The Memorial Wall will symbolize the UN's commitment to peacekeeping and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by fallen peacekeepers.
It will stand as a constant reminder of the price paid for global decisions and the importance given to peacekeeping operations by the United Nations.
The installation of the Memorial Wall for the Deceased Peacekeepers underlines India's commitment to global peacekeeping efforts and recognizes the selfless dedication and sacrifice made by peacekeepers in maintaining peace and security across the world.
It serves as a tribute to his memory and as a symbol of gratitude and remembrance of the international community for his service.
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
It is the United Nation’s chief policy-making and representative organ and was created in 1945.
It is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN).
It serves as the main deliberative, policy making and representative organ of the United Nations.
Its powers, structure, functions and procedures are set out in Chapter IV of the United Nations Charter.
Its main functions are to prepare the budget of the United Nations, appoint non-permanent members to the Security Council, appoint the Secretary-General of the United Nations, receive reports from other parts of the United Nations system, and make recommendations through resolutions.
6. Akashvani and Doordarshan emerge as most trusted electronic media organization in country
Tags: National National News
According to Reuters Institute's Digital News Report 2023, DD India and All India Radio have been recognized as the most trusted electronic media organizations in the country.
An overview of the news
The report highlights that although overall trust in news has decreased marginally by 3 percentage points, public broadcasters and print brands have managed to maintain a relatively high level of trust among the public.
DD India and All India Radio have been specifically described as electronic media organizations with the highest degree of trust.
This recognition reflects the credibility that these public broadcasters have established among their audiences.
Their longstanding presence in the media landscape as well as their commitment to providing accurate and unbiased news coverage has contributed to their strong reputation as reliable sources of information.
Being recognized as the most trusted electronic media organizations reflects the belief that the public space in DD India and All India Radio highlights their importance in the media ecosystem and the role they play in shaping public opinion.
About the Reuters Institute Digital News Report
The Digital News Report of the Reuters Institute is an annual publication.
It provides valuable insight into the evolving landscape of digital news around the world.
The report is widely recognized as a comprehensive and reliable source of information on news trends and media patterns.
The report aims to examine the changing dynamics of news, the impact of digital technologies on news and the emerging role of news organizations in the digital age.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. Fourth warship of Indian Navy 'Sanshodhak' launched
Tags: Defence National News
The fourth Survey Vessel Large (SVL) of the Indian Navy, named 'Sanshodhak', was launched at Kattupalli, Chennai on 13th June.
An overview of the news
The launch ceremony, held on June 13, was attended by Adhir Arora, Chief Hydrographer to the Government of India, as the chief guest.
Tanvi Arora launched the ship while an invocation from the Atharva Veda was chanted, following naval maritime traditions.
About 'Sanshodhak' warship
The ship's name, meaning 'Researcher', reflects its primary role as a Survey Vessel.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) highlighted the launch of the fourth SVL as a testament to India's commitment to indigenous shipbuilding, aligning with the government's 'Make in India' and Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision.
The project, undertaken by L&T/GRSE for the Indian Navy, demonstrates the nation's resolve in promoting self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.
Purpose and features of SVL ships
The SVL ships are designed to replace the existing Sandhayak Class survey ships and are equipped with new-generation hydrographic equipment to collect oceanographic data.
These ships have a length of 110 meters, a width of 16 meters, and a displacement of 3,400 tons.
The hull of the ships is constructed using DMR 249-A steel, an indigenously developed material manufactured by the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL).
With over 80 percent indigenous content by cost, the SVL project promotes defense production by Indian manufacturing units, contributing to employment generation and enhancing warship building capabilities in the country.
Construction and launch timeline
The contract for building four SVL ships was signed between the MoD and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, on October 30, 2018.
As per the build strategy, the first ship was built at GRSE, Kolkata, while the construction of the remaining three ships up to the outfitting stage was sub-contracted to L&T Shipbuilding, Kattupalli.
The first three ships, named Sandhayak, Nirdeshak, and Ikshak, were launched on December 5, 2021, May 26, 2022, and November 26, 2022, respectively.
10. SIDBI launches EVOLVE mission with NITI Aayog
Tags: Economy/Finance National News
Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) launched the Electric Vehicle Operations and Lending for Vibrant Ecosystem (EVOLVE) mission.
An Overview of the News
The mission has been launched in collaboration with NITI Aayog, World Bank, Korean-World Bank and Korean Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF).
Its main objective is to provide financial assistance to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the electric vehicle sector.
The collaboration between SIDBI, NITI Aayog, World Bank, Korea-World Bank and Korean Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) highlights the importance of public-private partnership.
The EVOLVE mission contributes to the promotion of sustainable transportation solutions in India.
By supporting MSMEs in the electric vehicle industry, the initiative aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem for electric vehicles.
EVOLVE Mission Aim:
Its primary objective is to provide funds for the purchase of 50,000 Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Sanction letters have been sent to companies such as Aristo Securities and Muffin Green Finance to achieve this goal.
These companies have been tasked with facilitating the introduction of around 5,000 two-wheeler and three-wheeler electric vehicles on the roads in the near future.
Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI):
Apex regulatory body for micro, small and medium enterprise finance companies in India.
Responsible for licensing and regulation in this sector.
Jurisdiction:
Under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
The headquarters is located in Lucknow.
Establishment:
Established on 2nd April, 1990 by the Government of India.
Initially a wholly owned subsidiary of IDBI Bank.
Delinked from IDBI Bank on March 27, 2000.
