1. Center extends financial incentives to 12 states to accelerate power sector reforms
Tags: Economy/Finance National News
Centre has provided financial incentives to 12 states to accelerate power sector reforms. These states will receive over 66 thousand crore rupees incentives for reforms in the power sector.
An overview of the news
This initiative aims to support and motivate states in implementing reforms that enhance the efficiency and performance of the power sector.
The announcement regarding this initiative was made in the Union Budget 2021-22 by the Union Finance Minister.
As part of the initiative, states are granted an additional borrowing space of up to 0.5 percent of their Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) annually for a period of four years, from 2021-22 to 2024-25.
Based on the recommendations of the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Finance has granted permission for the reforms undertaken by 12 state governments in the years 2021-22 and 2022-23.
As a result, these states have been allowed to raise financial resources of Rs 66,413 crore through the additional borrowing permissions over the past two financial years.
Each State as an incentive to embark on the reform process is as follows:
SL No. | State | Cumulative amount (Rs in crore) |
1. | Andhra Pradesh | 9,574 |
2. | Assam | 4,359 |
3. | Himachal Pradesh | 251 |
4. | Kerala | 8,323 |
5. | Manipur | 180 |
6. | Meghalaya | 192 |
7. | Odisha | 2,725 |
8. | Rajasthan | 11,308 |
9. | Sikkim | 361 |
10. | Tamil Nadu | 7,054 |
11. | Uttar Pradesh | 6,823 |
12. | West Bengal | 15,263 |
Total | 66,413 |
2. Sahitya Akademi announces winners of Bal Sahitya Puraskar
Tags: Awards
The Sahitya Akademi has announced the recipients of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar and Yuva Puraskar for this year.
An overview of the news
The announcement was made at a meeting of the Sahitya Akademi's Executive Board, chaired by President Madhav Kaushik.
The winners of both awards will receive an engraved copper plaque and a cheque of Rs 50,000 each at a ceremony to be held later.
Sudha Murty, a renowned children's author, has been selected for the Bal Sahitya Puraskar for her collection of stories titled 'Grandparents' Bag of Stories'.
Suryanath Singh has been chosen for the Hindi language category of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar for his collection of short stories called 'Kotuk App'.
Anirudh Kanisetti will receive the Yuva Puraskar for his work 'Lords Of The Deccan: Southern India From Chalukyas To Cholas', while Atul Kumar Rai will be awarded in the Hindi language category for his novel 'Chandpur ki Chanda'.
The recipients for Manipuri, Maithili, and Sanskrit categories of Yuva Puraskar, as well as the Bal Sahitya Puraskar for Manipuri, will be announced later.
No Yuva Puraskar winner was announced for Odia, and no Bal Sahitya Puraskar winner was announced for Kashmiri.
Winners of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar
The remaining winners of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar are listed as Rothindranath Goswami (Assamese), Shyamalkanti Das (Bengali), Pratima Nandi Narzaree (Bodo), Balwan Singh Jamoria (Dogri), Rakshabahen Prahladrao Dave (Gujarati), Vijayashree Haladi (Kannada), Tukaram Rama Shet (Konkani), Akshay Anand 'Sunny' (Maithili), Priya AS (Malayalam), Eknath Avhad (Marathi), Madhusudan Bisht (Nepali), Jugal Kishore Sarangi (Odia), Gurmeet Karyalvi (Punjabi), Kiran Badal (Rajasthani), Radhavallabh Tripathi (Sanskrit), Mansing Majhi (Santali), Dholan Rahi (Sindhi), Udhayasankar (Tamil), DK Chaduvula Babu (Telugu), and Mateen Achalpuri.
Winners of Yuva Puraskar
The other recipients of the Yuva Puraskar include Jintu Gitartha (Assamese), Hamiruddin Middya (Bengali), Mainaosri Daimary (Bodo), Sagar Shah (Gujarati), Manjunayak Challur (Kannada), Nighat Nasreen (Kashmiri), Tanvi Kamat Bambolkar (Konkani), Ganesh Puthu (Malayalam), Vishakha Vishwanath (Marathi), Naina Adhikari (Nepali), Sandeep (Punjabi), Devilal Mahiya (Rajasthani), Bapi Tudu (Santali), Monika J Panjwani (Sindhi), Ram Thangam (Tamil), Johny Takkedasila (Telugu), Dheeraj Bismil (Dogri), and Tauseef Bareilvi for Urdu.
3. Gauhati HC quashed Nagaland govt’s notification banning dog meat’s sale
Tags: State News
The Kohima bench of the Gauhati High Courtrecently quashed the 2020 order of the Nagaland government that banned the sale and trade of dog meat in markets and restaurants.
An overview of the news
The High Court has observed in its order that the State or its executive officers cannot interfere with the rights of others unless they refer to a specific rule of law, which authorizes them to do so.
The High Court observed that dog meat appears to be an accepted food among the Nagas even in modern times.
Justice Marly Wankung gave this decision after hearing the petition of three persons.
This petition was filed under Article 226 of the Constitution for issuance of appropriate writ for violation of fundamental rights of the petitioners and principles of natural justice.
The Nagaland government had banned the sale, trade and import of dog meat on July 4, 2020, after photographs of disabled dogs tied in sacks were circulated on social media.
Nagaland State
Nagaland was formally recognized as a separate state on December 1, 1963, with Kohima declared as its capital.
It is bounded by Arunachal Pradesh in the northeast, Manipur in the south and Assam in the west and northwest and Myanmar (Burma) in the east.
Mithun (Gyal) is the state animal of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.
Blyth's Tragopan is the state bird of Nagaland.
The Konyaks are the largest tribe, followed by the Aos, Tangkhul, Semas and Angami.
Other tribes include the Lotha, Sangtam, Phom, Chang, Khim Hungama, Yimchungar, Zeliang, Chakhesang (chokri) and Rengma.
4. Government of India constituted peace committee in Manipur
Tags: committee National News
Government of India has constituted a Peace Committee in Manipur under the Chairpersonship of Governor, Manipur Anusuiya Uikey on 10 June.
An overview of the news
The constitution of the Peace Committee in Manipur was announced by Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, during his visit to the state from May 29th, 2023 to June 1st, 2023.
Members of Peace Committee
The committee consists of the chief minister, state government ministers, members of parliament (MPs), members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) and leaders of various political parties.
The Committee also includes former civil servants, educationists, litterateurs, artists, social workers and representatives of different ethnic groups.
Mandate of the Committee
The primary mandate of the Peace Committee is to facilitate the peace-making process among different ethnic groups in Manipur.
This involves promoting peaceful dialogues and negotiations between conflicting parties or groups.
The Committee aims to foster social cohesiveness, mutual understanding, and cordial communication between the various ethnic groups in the state.
The objective of the committee is to resolve conflicts, redress grievances and promote reconciliation among the various communities in Manipur.
5. Three-member panel constituted to probe Manipur violence
Tags: committee
The Centre has established a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the recent series of violence in Manipur, led by former Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, Ajai Lamba.
About Commission of Inquiry
In addition to Ajai Lamba, the commission includes retired IAS officer Himanshu Shekhar Das and retired IPS officer Aloka Prabhakar as members.
The headquarters of the commission will be located in Imphal, Manipur.
The central government has appointed the Commission of Inquiry under the provisions of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952.
What will examine the commission?
The commission's mandate, according to a notification from the Union Home Ministry, is to inquire into the causes and spread of the violence and riots targeting different communities in Manipur that occurred on May 3 and thereafter.
The commission will examine the sequence of events leading to the violence, gather all relevant facts, and determine if there were any lapses or dereliction of duty on the part of responsible authorities or individuals.
It will also assess the adequacy of administrative measures taken to prevent and address the violence and riots.
The commission is required to submit its report to the central government as soon as possible.
But no later than six months from the date of its first sitting.
Violence in Manipur
The violence in Manipur, which began on May 3, resulted in numerous fatalities, injuries, and property damage.
The government of Manipur recommended the establishment of a judicial inquiry commission to investigate the causes and factors associated with the crisis.
Manipur has experienced sporadic violence since the outbreak of ethnic clashes on May 3.
The clashes were triggered by a 'Tribal Solidarity March' organized in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
Prior tensions had arisen over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, leading to smaller agitations.
6. Target to completely withdraw AFSPA from Assam by December 2023
Tags: State News
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that a target has been set to completely withdraw AFSPA from Assam by the end of 2023.
An Overview of the News
The government aims to address concerns of human rights violations and promote accountability and transparency.
About AFSPA:
AFSPA (Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act provides additional powers to the armed forces to maintain law and order in areas affected by insurgency and internal disturbances.
It was implemented in the northeastern states of India (Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, parts of Arunachal Pradesh) and Jammu and Kashmir.
AFSPA gives the armed forces wide powers including arrest, search and shoot on suspicion in "disturbed" areas.
Provides legal immunity to armed forces personnel for their actions during operations, making accountability for human rights violations difficult.
Aims and Objectives:
Its goal is to enable the armed forces to deal with insurgency and maintain public order in areas affected by armed insurgency or insurgency.
The Act empowers the military for preventive measures, search and arrest operations, and the use of force, including lethal force if necessary.
Challenges and Considerations:
AFSPA faces criticism for human rights violations and excessive use of force by the armed forces.
Concerns were expressed by human rights organizations regarding abuses, extrajudicial killings and torture.
Lack of accountability and transparency due to the wide powers and immunity given to the armed forces.
History:
Launched in 1958 to address the Naga insurgency in Nagaland, later expanded to other areas.
Implemented in Manipur, Assam, some areas of Arunachal Pradesh and in the east in Jammu and Kashmir.
In 2020, AFSPA was repealed in Jammu and Kashmir, which is now governed under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act.
7. MInister of State Dr L Murugan to lead delegation to Cannes Film Festival
Tags: Festivals International News
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr L Murugan will lead the Indian delegation to the Cannes International Film Festival from May 16 to 27.
An overview of the news
They will also be joined by filmmaker Guneet Monga of The Elephant Whispers fame, Indian actresses Manushi Chhillar, Esha Gupta and acclaimed Manipuri actor Kangabam Tomba.
The India Pavilion is being conceptualised and designed by National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad with the theme - ‘Showcasing India’s Creative Economy’ to the global community.
The pavilion design has been inspired by the Saraswati Yantra, the abstract representation of goddess Saraswati.
Four Indian films,including Kanu Behl’s Agra and Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy, have made it to the official selection in the Cannes Film Festival.
Apart from these, many Indian films will be screened in Marche du Films.
A Manipuri film ‘Ishanhou’ will be showcased in the ‘Classics’ section.
About Cannes Film Festival
The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious international film festivals held annually in Cannes, France.
History and significance
The festival was first established in 1946 and has since become a prominent event in the global film industry.
It serves as a platform for showcasing and promoting a wide range of films from different countries and cultures.
Film screenings and competitions
The festival includes various competitive sections, such as the Palme d'Or for the best film, which is one of the most coveted awards in the industry.
Impact on filmmakers and films
The Cannes Film Festival serves as a launching pad for many acclaimed films and emerging talents.
Winning an award or receiving critical acclaim at Cannes can significantly boost a filmmaker's career and bring global recognition to their work.
8. Khongjom Day: 23 April
Tags: Important Days
Khongjom Day is an annual event celebrated on 23 April to commemorate the soldiers who fought in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.
An Overview of the News
The event was held at Kheba Ching in Khongjom, Thoubal district of Manipur.
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and GovernorMs. Anusuiya Uikey paid tribute to the martyrs in the programme.
The observance of Khongjom Day commemorates the sacrifices made by the people of Manipur in the fight for freedom and independence.
The Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 took place at Khongjom and marked the beginning of colonial rule in the region.
About Manipur
Formation (as a state) - 1972
Capital and largest city - Imphal
District - 16
Governor - Anusuiya Uikey
Chief Minister -N. Biren Singh (BJP)
Legislative Assembly -Manipur Legislative Assembly (60 seats)
Rajya Sabha -1 seat
Lok Sabha - 2 seats
9. Tribal Affairs Minister launched Marketing, Logistics Development for PTP-NER scheme
Tags: State News
Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda on 18th April launched a new scheme “Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Tribal Products from North -Eastern Region (PTP-NER)” for the benefit of Scheduled Tribes of Northeastern Region.
An overview of the news
The scheme has been introduced for the benefit of Scheduled Tribes of the North-Eastern Region.
The objective of the scheme is to strengthen livelihood opportunities for tribal artisans through enhanced efficiency in procurement, logistics and marketing of tribal products from North Eastern States.
The scheme will be applicable to the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim.
As part of this plan, there is a plan to start a panel of tribal artisans from the North Eastern Region by organizing 68 Tribal Artisan Melas in different districts of the region.
Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED)
It came into existence in 1987.
TRIFED is a national-level organisation functioning under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Its Head Office is located in New Delhi and has a network of 13 Regional Offices.
It aims at socio-economic development of tribal people in the country through marketing development of tribal products.
About India's North-East region
The North Eastern Region (NER) comprises eight States - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.
The North Eastern region of India is a landlocked region with no access to the sea.
It is geographically isolated from the rest of India and is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land called the Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck).
Sikkim - the ‘Brother’ of the Seven Sisters
Assam- World’s largest ‘Tea Producer’
Manipur- Jewel of India
Arunachal Pradesh- Land of Rising Sun
Meghalaya- Scotland of India
Tripura- the most ‘Literate’ in the Northeast around 95% Literacy rate
Mizoram- Molasses Basin
Sikkim- Sparsely Populated, the only state having world’s largest ‘Kanchenjunga Mountain’
Nagaland- famous for Mon’s Ethnicity
10. Nandini Gupta crowned Femina Miss India 2023
Tags: Awards Person in news
Nandini Gupta of Rajasthan won the title of Femina Miss India World 2023.
The first runner-up of the competition was Shreya Poonja from Delhi and the second runner-up was Thounaojam Strela Luwang from Manipur.
An Overview of the News
The 59th edition of India's most prestigious pageant marked the Grand Finale of Femina Miss India World 2023 in a historic ceremony at the Indoor Stadium, Khuman Lampak, Imphal, Manipur.
Bollywood actors Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday gave a stellar performance at the Femina Miss India 2023 event.
Nandini Gupta will represent India at the 71st Miss World pageant, which is going to be held in the United Arab Emirates.
About Femina Miss India
It is a national beauty pageant held annually in India since 1952 and is organized by Femina, a women's magazine published by Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.
The winner represents India in the Miss World pageant.
About Rajasthan
It is a state in northern India and is the largest Indian state by area and the seventh largest by population.
It is bordered by five other Indian states: Punjab to the north; Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in the northeast; Madhya Pradesh in the southeast; and Gujarat in the southwest.
Rajasthan is also home to three national tiger reserves, Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur, Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar and Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve in Kota.
The state was formed on 30 March 1949 when Rajputana was merged with the Dominion of India.
Formation - 30 March 1949
Capital- Jaipur
District - 33
Governor - Kalraj Mishra
Chief Minister - Ashok Gehlot (INC)
State Legislature - Unicameral
Legislative Assembly - Rajasthan Legislative Assembly (200 seats)
Rajya Sabha - 10 seats
Lok Sabha - 25 seats
Symbol of Rajasthan
Bird - Godawan
Flowers - Rohida
Tree - Khejri
