1. Law Minister launches Tele-Law 2.0
Tags: Government Schemes
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launches Tele-Law 2.0 for legal advice.
An Overview of the News
Screening of the "Tele-Law" documentary, chronicling the journey of Tele-Law from 2017 to 2022.
Launch of "Tele-Law-2.0", which integrates Tele-Law and Nyay Bandhu apps, along with the release of an informative e-tutorial.
Unveiling the fourth edition of the Voice of Beneficiaries booklet, featuring real-life stories of individuals whose lives were positively impacted by Tele-Law.
The presentation of the “Achievers Catalogue”, highlights the top-performing paralegal volunteers, village-level entrepreneurs, panel lawyers and state coordinators categorized by sectors for the year 2022-2023 and April to June 2023-2024.
Tele-Law operates within the framework of the Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice (DISHA) scheme, which has already facilitated over 50 lakh legal consultations.
The Disha scheme, launched in 2021, has a duration of five years (2021-2026) and aims to promote and increase access to justice for all in India.
Tele-Law 2.0:
The Department of Justice (DoJ) is conducting a program called Tele-Law 2.0 as part of its commitment to Article 39A, which aims to provide "justice for all".
The primary goal of the Tele-Law program is to positively impact the lives of one crore (ten million) beneficiaries by achieving this milestone well before the year 2026.
Tele-Law Programs:
In 2017, the Tele-Law program was launched.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) collaborated with the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and CSC e-Governance Service India Limited to facilitate the delivery of legal aid to the underprivileged population.
The primary objective of this partnership was to ensure that marginalized communities have access to legal aid by leveraging Common Service Centers (CSCs).
Nyay Bandhu App:
This app is part of Tele-Law 2.0, which combines Tele-Law services and the Nyaya Bandhu Android application.
Its primary goal is to provide free legal guidance and representation to citizens.
Nyay Bandhu (Pro Bono Legal Services) was started in 2017.
The objective of this initiative is to establish a nationwide framework to provide free legal aid.
“Pro bono legal services” means providing legal assistance voluntarily and without charge.
The Latin phrase "pro bono" translates to "for free" in English.
2. India to host the first edition of the 'Global IndiaAI 2023' conference in October
Tags: Summits
The inaugural edition of 'Global IndiaAI 2023' will be hosted by India in October.
An Overview of the News
The responsibility for organizing this program will be of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
The conference will attract leading figures in the field of AI, such as key players, researchers, startups, and investors from India and around the world.
A variety of topics will be covered during the program, ranging from next-generation learning and foundational AI models to applications of AI in healthcare, governance and the advancement of electric vehicles.
The conference will also discuss future trends in AI research, AI computing systems, investment prospects and strategies to promote AI talent.
The proceedings of the conference are being monitored by Rajiv Chandrashekhar, Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Electronics and IT.
3. SVAMITVA Yojana of Ministry of Panchayati Raj gets National Award for e-Governance 2023
Tags: Awards
In the 26th National Conference on e-Governance 2023, the National Award was given to the SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) scheme of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
An Overview of the News
The objective of the SVAMITVA scheme is to survey the population of villages, map rural areas with advanced technology, and provide ownership rights of property to individuals living in rural areas.
State-of-the-art technologies such as drones and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used for this initiative.
Property cards have been created, which enable rural property owners to leverage their property for financial benefits.
Significance of the Award:
The National Award for e-Governance was given in the category "Application of emerging technology for providing citizen-centric services".
It recognizes the innovative use of technology in the scheme to provide services that directly benefit citizens.
National Conference on e-Governance (NCeG):
The 26th NCeG was held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, and jointly organized by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
The theme was "Developing India, Empowering Citizens" with a focus on advanced technologies and effective e-governance strategies.
The objective of the conference is to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and promote collaboration among stakeholders.
National e-Governance Awards Categories:
The National e-Governance Awards were presented in five categories, including government process re-engineering, emerging technology applications, district-level e-governance initiatives, research on citizen-centric services, and emerging technology applications by start-ups.
Effect of SVAMITVA Scheme:
SVAMITVA Scheme is implemented in collaboration with the Survey of India, State Revenue and Panchayati Raj Departments, and NIC-GIS.
Property cards empower rural property owners to access bank loans and resolve land disputes with accurate maps.
Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department - Giriraj Singh
4. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launches Tele-Law 2.0
Tags: Science and Technology
Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launched Tele-Law- 2.0 on August 25, 2023, in New Delhi.
An Overview of the News
The Department of Justice (DOJ) hosted the Tele-Law 2.0 event at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi.
The event marks the achievement of helping 5 million citizens and highlights the use of technology in providing pre-litigation advice to the public.
Tele-law services are being integrated with legal representation services under the Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono) program.
This integration streamlines access to legal advice, assistance, and representation through a unified registration process on the Tele-Law platform.
The event recognizes and honors frontline workers who play a vital role in providing legal services directly to the people.
The event has been organized by the Department of Justice in association with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited.
The event is in line with the government's vision to strengthen the legal aid ecosystem and ensure equitable access to justice for all.
Important components of organizing include:
Screening of a documentary showing the journey of tele-law from 2017 to 2022.
"Tele-Law-2.0" is being launched, which combines the Tele-Law and Nyay Bandhu apps, Also an e-tutorial has been released.
Unveiling of “Voices of Beneficiaries”, a compilation of firsthand experiences shared by people who have benefited from Tele-Law.
Presenting the "Achievers Catalogue", which acknowledges outstanding performers such as Paralegal Volunteers, Village Entrepreneurs, Panel Lawyers, and State Coordinators for the years 2022-2023 and April to June 2023.
5. B20 Summit India 2023 begins in New Delhi
Tags: Summits
B20 Summit India 2023 began in New Delhi on 25 August.
An Overview of the News
During the three days, the summit will be attended by various prominent personalities, including Union Ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Dr. S Jaishankar.
The first day of the summit will host seven sessions covering topics like B20 India's priorities, global alignment, Artificial Intelligence's role in business and society, trade opportunities and regulations, resilient global trade's inclusive value chains, and a session with Trade Ministers.
Eminent leaders including Tata Sons Executive Chairman and B20 India Chairman N Chandrasekaran, Mastercard CEO Michael Meibach, and World Economic Forum President Borge Brende will be present.
The theme of the summit is "B20 India R.I.S.E." which is a symbol of responsible, agile, innovative, sustainable, and equitable businesses.
Under the chairmanship of India, seven task forces were set up, covering areas such as global value chains, future of work, skill development, mobility, digital transformation, financing economic reforms, climate change, technology, innovation, and financial inclusion for empowerment.
Summit discussions expanded to two Action Councils focusing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters related to business and African economic integration.
6. World Water Week - 20 to 24 August
Tags: Important Days
World Water Week, a global event organized annually by the Stockholm International Water Institute since 1991, will take place at the Waterfront Congress Center from 20 to 24 August.
An Overview of the News
This non-profit event serves as a platform to address the global water crisis and various related challenges.
It aims to develop solutions to the international water crisis (along with many other problems).
Water, an important natural resource, plays an important role in our daily activities like drinking and cleaning. Therefore its conservation is very important.
The theme for World Water Week 2023 is "Seeds of Change: Innovative Solutions for a Water-Wise World," The theme encourages a re-evaluation of water management practices and emphasizes the need for new ideas, innovations, and effective governance systems in the face of increasing water scarcity, and instability around the world.
History of World Water Week
World Water Week is a recurring global event that has taken place every year since its inception in 1991.
The event is organized by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI), a non-profit organization committed to advocating for sustainable water solutions.
The first World Water Week was held in 1991 in Stockholm, Sweden.
The theme of the opening ceremony was "Water: An Imminent Crisis."
The event brought together water experts and professionals from around the world to discuss and address challenges related to water scarcity and pollution.
Since its inception, World Water Week has been held continuously in Stockholm.
The event serves as an important platform for international stakeholders to engage in discussion, knowledge-sharing, and collaborative efforts to tackle various water-related issues.
7. Anwarul Haq Kakar sworn in as the 8th Interim Prime Minister of Pakistan
Tags: International News
Ethnic Pashtun leader Anwarul Haq Kakar was sworn in as the 8th Caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, becoming the youngest person to hold the role.
An Overview of the News
President Arif Alvi administered the oath of office to Anwarul Haq Kakar in a simple ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Distinguished attendees include outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and prominent leaders.
Kakar formally resigned from the Senate and the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), strengthening his commitment to the neutrality expected in his current position.
The Senate Chairman has accepted Kakar's resignation as per Article 64, Clause (1) of the Constitution of Pakistan.
Anwar Ul Haq Kakar: Background and Political Journey
Ethnic identity and party affiliation: Kakar, an ethnic Pashtun, is affiliated with the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP).
Birthplace and political entry: Hailing from the provincial capital Quetta, Kakar entered politics in the late 21st century.
Experience as Spokesperson: In a previous role, he served as the spokesperson for the Balochistan Provincial Administration in 2013 and gained valuable insight into regional governance.
Senate tenure and election: Anwar ul Haq Kakar assumed a position in the Pakistani Senate as a senator in March 2018.
He secured this seat in the 2018 Pakistani Senate elections as an independent candidate representing Balochistan through a general seat.
Chief of the Army Staff of Pakistan - General Asim Munir
8. Nivriti Rai appointed as Managing Director and CEO of Invest India
Tags: Person in news
Renowned global business and technology expert Nivriti Rai has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Invest India.
An Overview of the news:
- Ms Rai takes over from Manmeet K Nanda, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), who assumed the additional charge of MD & CEO in the interim in March 2023.
Career of Nivriti Rai:
- Ms. Rai joins Invest India after an illustrious 29 years of service as a global business and technology veteran at Intel.
- She was leading Intel India as Country Head for the last 07 years and spearheaded Intel's growth and investments in the country.
Promotion of indigenous technology:
- During his tenure at Intel India, he made significant contributions in the areas of indigenous technology development, start-up ecosystem, electronics manufacturing ecosystem and policy making, especially in the areas of critical and emerging technologies.
Awards and Honors:
- Ms. Rai was also conferred with the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar for her outstanding contribution in the field of technology.
Invest India:
- India's National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency.
- Established: 2009 (Carried out as a non-profit enterprise under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry).
- Invest India focuses on sector-specific investor targeting and developing new partnerships to enable sustainable investment in India.
- It leverages private sector experts to meet the government's vision, which includes high standards of transparency, ethics and corporate governance.
- Chairman of the Board of Invest India Secretary of DPIIT: Rajesh Kumar Singh.
9. Nivruti Rai appointed as MD & CEO of Invest India
Tags: Person in news
Nivruti Rai took charge as the Managing Director and CEO of Invest India.
An Overview of the News
Nivruti Rai replaced Manmeet K Nanda, who served as the interim CEO.
Rai brings 29 years of experience from Intel, where he held global leadership roles.
He led Intel India as Country Head for seven years and promoted growth and investment in India.
Nivruti Rai has received the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar for her contribution to technology.
The Invest India Board is chaired by Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, DPIIT.
Other Board Members
PK Tripathi, Secretary (Coordination), Cabinet Secretariat.
Aarti Bhatnagar, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, DPIIT.
Mohd Noor Rehman Shaikh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs.
Anand Mahindra, Chairperson, Mahindra Group.
Pankaj R. Patel, Chairperson, Cadila Healthcare.
Harshvardhan Neotia, Chairperson, Ambuja Neotia Group.
Rekha M. Menon, Chairperson and Senior MD, Accenture.
Debjani Ghosh, President, NASSCOM.
Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII.
Invest India Contribution and Initiatives
Invest India played a key role in implementing flagship initiatives such as Make in India and Startup India.
The organisation is known for its transparency, ethics and corporate governance.
10. TCRM Matrix Framework unveiled by NITI Aayog to enhance technology assessment and innovation
Tags: National News
NITI Aayog released the Techno-Commercial Readiness and Market Maturity Matrix (TCRM Matrix) framework for promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in India on 18 July 2023.
An Overview of the news:
- The TCRM Matrix Framework released by NITI Aayog is a pioneering assessment tool developed to revolutionize technology assessment, foster innovation and encourage entrepreneurship in India.
- This action plan paper highlights the historical evolution of the Technology Framework, including the Technology Readiness Level (TRL), Commercialization Readiness Level (CRL), and Market Readiness Level (MRL) scales.
- By building on the core principles of these frameworks, the TCRM Matrix Framework presents an integrated assessment model that provides deep insights and actionable intelligence to stakeholders at every stage of the technology development cycle.
- The Action Plan paper provides clear guidelines for integrating the TCRM Matrix framework within the wider innovation ecosystem.
- By doing so, policy makers, strategists, academics and investors can harness its full potential and drive meaningful change.
- Adoption of the TCRM Matrix framework requires a comprehensive analysis and contextualization within specific national and regional innovation scenarios.
- The launch of the Techno-Commercial Readiness and Market Maturity Matrix (TCRM Matrix) framework is a milestone for India's innovation and entrepreneurship landscape.
National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog:
- On January 1, 2015, a new institution NITI Aayog was formed in place of the Planning Commission, envisaging maximum governance, minimum government, emphasizing the spirit of 'cooperative federalism'.
Composition of NITI Aayog:
- Chairman: Prime Minister
- Vice President: Appointed by the Prime Minister
- Governing Council: Chief Ministers of all States and Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories.
- Regional Council: The Prime Minister or his nominee presides over meetings of Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors to address specific regional issues.
- Ex-officio Membership: Up to four members of the Union Council of Ministers nominated by the Prime Minister.
- Ad-hoc Membership: Two ex-officio members by rotation from leading research institutions.
- Chief Executive Officer: Secretary to the Government of India who is appointed by the Prime Minister for a fixed term.
- Special Invitees: Experts in various fields nominated by the Prime Minister.
