1. Thiruvananthapuram Airport Earns India's First Zero Waste to Landfill Accolade
Tags: State News
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, situated in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has attained the distinction of being the inaugural airport in India to earn the Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) recognition bestowed by the CII-ITC CESD (Centre for Excellence for Sustainable Development).
An Overview of the News
This recognition underscores the airport's dedication to sustainable waste management practices.
The ZWL assessment revealed that the airport has effectively implemented leading waste management practices, achieving a remarkable 99.50% waste diversion from landfills.
Notably, the airport has diverted 100% of its plastic waste and 100% of its Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), encompassing both wet and dry waste, away from landfills.
Implementation Strategies:
By embracing the 5R principles -Reduce, Reuse, Reprocess, Recycle, and Recover - of Sustainable Waste Management, the airport has achieved a 99.5% waste diversion rate.
This success is attributed to the integration of a robust value chain system, emphasizing the reduction of waste production while maximizing recycling and recovery efforts.
Sophisticated Waste Management System:
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has established a sophisticated waste management system aligned with ISO 14001:2015 standards.
This system encompasses comprehensive waste segregation, recycling, monitoring, and reduction processes, all operating under a cradle-to-cradle principle to ensure sustainable waste management practices.
Sustainable Waste Management Goals:
The ZWL initiative aims to divert a minimumof99% of generated waste from landfills, prioritizing the reduction of overall waste production.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport's achievement serves as a model for other airports and industries, highlighting the feasibility and benefits of adopting sustainable waste management strategies.
2. IAF Chief Inaugurates First-Ever EMRS in Karnataka
Tags: Defence State News
Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of Indian Air Force (IAF), has inaugurated the inaugural Emergency Medical Response System (EMRS) at Command Hospital Air Force (CHAF) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
An Overview of the News
The EMRS functions as a 24/7 telephonic medical helpline dedicated to serving IAF personnel and their families nationwide.
It aims to ensure timely response by a specialized team of medical and paramedical professionals to any emergency situation encountered by callers anywhere in India.
Objectives:
The primary goal of this system is to provide prompt and efficient healthcare assistance during critical moments.
It reflects the IAF's commitment to leveraging technology for delivering high-quality healthcare services, particularly in emergency scenarios.
About Indian Air Force
Founded:- 8 October 1932
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS):- General Anil Chauhan
Headquarters:- New Delhi
Fighter:- Su-30MKI, Rafale, Tejas, MiG-29, Mirage 2000, MiG-21 HAL Tejas Mk2, HAL AMCA
Helicopter:- CH-47 Chinook, Dhruv, Chetak, Cheetah, Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-26, HAL IMRH
About Karnataka
Capital:- Bengaluru (Executive Branch)
Chief minister:- Siddaramaiah
Governor:- Thawar Chand Gehlot
Bird:- Indian roller
3. IAF Joins Forces with Uttarakhand Government for Bambi Bucket Operations
Tags: National State News
The Indian Air Force (IAF) collaborated with the Uttarakhand government to conduct Bambi Bucket operations.
An Overview of the News
Utilizing the Mi-17 V5 helicopter, the IAF engaged in combating forest fires in Nainital, Uttarakhand.
A total of 23 sorties were conducted, amounting to 11 and a half hours of operation.
Approximately 44,600 liters of water were utilized by the IAF in their efforts to extinguish the blazing fires in the mountains.
Bambi Bucket: A Revolutionary Tool
Inception: Introduced in 1983.
Inventor: Canadian Don Arney.
Functionality: Facilitates helicopters in transporting large water volumes beneath the aircraft.
Impact: Enables swift extinguishing of wildfires from the air.
Uttarakhand's 'Pirul Lao-Paise Pao' Campaign
Launch: Inaugurated on May 8, 2024, by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Campaign Oversight: Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board appointed to supervise.
Objective: Combating forest fires and forest devastation.
Operational Procedure:
Locals and youth collect dry pirul (pine tree leaves) from the forest.
Transport to designated collection centers.
Reward: Rs 50 per kilogram (kg) directly deposited into their bank accounts.
Purpose: Mitigating fire risk posed by pirul in Pine forests and utilizing them for productive purposes like electricity generation.
About Uttarakhand
Chief Minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami
Governor: Gurmit Singh
Capital: Dehradun
Wildlife Sanctuaries:
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary
Festivals:
Kangdali Festival
Uttarayani Mela or Uttarayani Fair
4. CCI Approves Greenko Energies' Stake Increase in Sikkim Urja
Tags: State News
Greenko Energies Private Limited's acquisition of additional shares in Sikkim Urja Limited (formerly Teesta Urja Limited) received approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on May 7th, 2024.
An Overview of the News
Sikkim Urja Limited was established to execute a 1200 MegaWatt hydro power project, comprising 6 units of 200 MW each, in North Sikkim, India.
Acquisition Details:
Greenko Energies Private Limited, a subsidiary of Greenko Mauritius, received approval to acquire additional shares in Sikkim Urja Limited.
Strategic Implications:
The approval from CCI allows Greenko Energies to increase its stake in Sikkim Urja Limited.
This acquisition strengthens Greenko Energies' presence and influence in India's renewable energy sector.
About Sikkim
Capital: Gangtok
Admission to union: 16 May 1975
Bird: Blood pheasant
5. Iron Age Megalithic Site and Mesolithic Rock Art Discovered in Telangana
Tags: State News
Archaeologists unearth a unique Iron Age Megalithic site at Ooragutta near Bandala village in SS Tadvai mandal of Mulugu district, Telangana.
An Overview of the News
Additionally, the team uncovers two new rock art sites at Damaratogu Gundala mandal of Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Telangana.
One of these sites, dubbed "Devarlabanda Mula," exclusively features depictions of animals without any human figures. Experts speculate that the paintings date back to the Mesolithic age (between 8000-3000 BCE) due to the absence of weaponry or domesticated animals in the artwork.
Iron Age Megalithic site:
Newly discovered Iron Age megalithic sites in India boast unprecedented monument types unseen elsewhere.
At the Ooragutta archaeological site, distinct features defy the conventional 'Dolmenoid Cists' prevalent in the area.
The arrangement of side slabs conforms to the cap-stone shape, resulting in a unique configuration for the dolmenoid cist.
These monuments are estimated to originate around 1,000 BCE.
Notably, the majority of monuments in this region typically exhibit square or rectangular forms.
Archaeologists Team:
K.P. Rao: History Professor at the University of Hyderabad
Ch Praveen Raju: Research Scholar at Yogi Vemana University, Kadapa (Andhra Pradesh)
Telangana:
Chief Minister: Anumula Revanth Reddy
Governor: C.P. Radhakrishnan
Zoological Parks:
Nehru Zoological Park
Vana Vigyan Kendra Mini Zoo (Kakatiya Zoological Park)
Airports:
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
Begumpet Airport
6. Uttar Pradesh awarded with 13 new Geographical Indications
Tags: State News
The Geographical Indications Registry of the Government of India has awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag to 13 new products originating from Uttar Pradesh (UP), including Banaras Tirangi Barfi and Banaras Metal Casting Craft.
An Overview of the News
The cumulative number of GI products in Uttar Pradesh has reached 75, confirming its position as the state with the highest number of GI-tagged products in India.
Whereas Tamil Nadu is in second place with a total of 58 GI-tagged products.
List of Recently Approved Geographical Indication Products in Uttar Pradesh:
Goods | GI Product |
Food Stuffs |
|
Handi Crafts |
|
Agriculture |
|
Tricolor Barfi:
The tricolor barfi, a sweet representing the national flag, served as a "sweet weapon" during the Quit India Movement.
Made from cashews and pistachios, it symbolizes the tricolor of the Indian flag: saffron, white and green.
Starting from Thatheri market in Varanasi, it started in Shri Ram Bhandar in 1942.
Banaras Metal Casting Craft:
Essential for the manufacture of idols and utensils in Kashi, the Banaras Metal Casting Craft uses brass with a central copper band to manufacture the utensils.
Support by NABARD:
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in Lucknow, UP supported GI tag for Banaras Tirangi Barfi, Banaras Metal Casting Craft, Lakhimpur Kheri Tharu Embroidery, Bareilly Furniture, Bareilly Zardozi Craft and Pilkhuwa Home Furnishing.
Dominion of Varanasi:
Varanasi, boasting 32 products, is the region with the highest number of GI products within the same geographical area.
About Geographical Indications Registry:
Part of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI).
The headquarters is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN).
7. Miraj's Sitar and Tanpura receive coveted GI Tags
Tags: State News
The Geographical Indications Registry awarded GI tags to Miraj town in Maharashtra for its sitars and tanpuras.
An Overview of the News
Craftsmanship and Tradition:
Sitars and tanpuras made in Miraj are known for their craftsmanship and have a tradition dating back more than 300 years.
Over seven generations of craftsmen have contributed to the production of these string instruments.
GI Tag Issuance:
The Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster and Soultune Musical Instrument Producer firm received GI tags for sitars and tanpuras, respectively.
More than 450 craftsmen are involved in manufacturing musical instruments under the Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster.
Raw Materials and Production:
Wood for sitars and tanpuras is sourced from Karnataka forests, while pumpkin gourds are obtained from Maharashtra's Solapur district.
The cluster manufactures around 60 to 70 sitars and 100 tanpuras per month.
Clientele and Recognition:
Well-known classical singers and founders of the Kirana gharana, such as Ustad Abdul Karim Khan Saheb and Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, have used Miraj-made instruments.
Artists from the film industry, including Javed Ali, Hariharan, and A R Rahman, are also patrons.
Historical Origin:
The art of making musical instruments in Miraj dates back to the Adilshahi period when skilled workers transitioned from weapon-making to instrument craftsmanship.
Economic Viability and Recognition:
The GI tag is expected to enhance the global recognition of Miraj-made instruments and benefit craftsmen.
Despite the viability of instrument making, skilled workers often face challenges in receiving adequate returns for their labor.
8. Utkal Diwas: Celebrating Odisha's Cultural Kaleidoscope and Rich Heritage
Tags: State News
In the Indian state of Odisha, Utkal Diwas, also known as Odisha Day or Utkala Dibasa, is a significant yearly event. This day, which falls on April 1st every year, marks the anniversary of the state of Odisha's formation on that date in 1936.
An Overview of the News:
For the people of Odisha, the day represents the turning point in a protracted struggle to be recognized as a separate state from the former British provinces of Orissa and Bihar.
The significance of Utkal Diwas:
For Odisha, Utkal Diwas is more than just a commemoration of statehood; it's also a tribute to the state's vibrant culture and rich history that have endured over time.
The occasion offers a chance to showcase Odisha's unique identity and its people, showcasing their traditions, creative expressions, delectable cuisine, and way of life.
Historical Significance:
The inception of Utkal Diwas dates back to the early 1900s, during which the movement for the creation of an independent state for the Odia-speaking people gained impetus.
Odisha was finally formally created on April 1, 1936, which was a major step toward maintaining Odia culture and customs.
Odisha became the first state to be established on linguistic grounds, having previously been a part of Bihar.
Odisha is a state in eastern India that borders the Bay of Bengal.
Cuttack was the capital city at first, but Bhubaneswar was named the new capital in 1948.
Honoring the Culinary Traditions of Odisha:
On Utkal Diwas, Odisha's abundant culinary legacy is showcased.
The traditional food of the state is well celebrated, having its roots in regional customs and farming methods.
During the celebrations, many people eat popular foods including Pakhala Bhata, Dahi Baigana, Macha Ghanta, Rasabali,Chingudi Jhola,Dalma, Chhencheda, Khira Gaintha, and Badi Chura.
Brilliant Dance Forms:
During Utkal Diwas, Odisha's rich legacy of classical and folk dances is clearly displayed. These dances are a form of cultural preservation as well as entertainment. Important dancing styles include of:
Odissi: A classical dance style that has its roots in the temples of Odisha, it's renowned for its elegant gestures and portrayal of Hindu mythology.
Gotipua: A traditional dance with elements of Odissi that is performed by young boys dressed as women.
Chhau: A type of martial arts dance that combines acrobatics, traditional dance, and martial arts. It frequently represents themes from Hindu epics.
Sambalpuri Folk Dance: Vibrant clothes and rhythmic footwork characterize these colorful folk dances from western Odisha.
Ghumura Dance: A traditional dance from the Kalahandi district, it moves that are synchronised to the beat of portable drums.
9. Kathia Gehu of Bundelkhand received the first GI tag for agricultural produce
Tags: State News
Kathiya Gehu, an indigenous wheat variety from the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh, has been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, the first such recognition for an agricultural produce in the region.
An Overview of the News
Certification Process:
Application for GI certification filed by Kathiya Gehu Bangra Producer Company Limited in January 2022 with the support of NABARD and technical guidance of Padma Shri Rajnikant Rai.
After a two-year process, the GI tag was issued with certificate number 585 on 30 March 2024.
Importance of GI Tag:
An important achievement for the Bundelkhand region is to have the first GI tag for any agricultural produce in the region.
The GI tag will promote Kathiya Gehu as an indigenous brand of wheat, known for its protein richness and ability to thrive with minimal irrigation.
Features of Kathiya Gehu:
Kathiya Gehu, also known as durum wheat, is prevalent in this region.
Nutrition-rich and gluten-free, making it a healthy option.
Adaptable to harsh climatic conditions and requires minimum water for cultivation.
Impact on farmers:
Confirmation of GI tag will increase the brand value of Kathia wheat, which will benefit the farmers of the area.
The collaboration between RLBCAU and ICARDA aims to research and develop improved seed varieties for improving Kathiya wheat production.
10. Rajasthan celebrated its 75th anniversary on 30 March 2024
Tags: State News
On March 30, Rajasthan celebrated the 75th anniversary of its formation in 1949 by merging 19 princely states and 3 states. This momentous occasion marked the end of an eight-and-a-half-year process.
An Overview of the News:
Before 1949, the region was known as 'Rajputana'.
After the princely states were merged, the territory was renamed "Rajasthan," which is currently acknowledged as the largest state in terms of area in India and is well-known for its rich historical background.
The day's historical context:
On January 14, 1949, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel declared the union of princely states, which included Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer.
On March 30, 1949, Rajasthan Day was established and Greater Rajasthan was formally inaugurated in Jaipur.
Historians believe Colonel James Tod was the one who first named the region "Rajasthan," but George Thomas claimed the name Rajputana in 1800 AD.
The province where kings lived was referred to in the local literary language as "Rajasthan."
Princely States and Mergers: When Rajasthan gained its independence, it was divided into 22 princely states, 19 of which were headed by monarchs and 3 by chiefs.
In addition, British rule extended to the province of Ajmer-Merwara. From March 18, 1948, until November 1, 1956, there were seven phases to the merger process.
Government Intervention:
On November 1, 1956, the States Reorganization Commission, led by Afzal Ali, recommended that the provinces of Ajmer and Merwara be merged with Rajasthan.
Capital Designation: On September 7, 1949, the Government of India named Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan, on the recommendation of the Satyanarayana Rao Committee.
Territorial Changes: As a result of the merger, Sironj village in the Jhalawar district was absorbed into Madhya Pradesh, and Suneltappa village in the Mandsaur tehsil of Madhya Pradesh became a part of Rajasthan.
