1. India's first-ever report on Critical Minerals for India unveils
Tags: National National News
Union Minister of Mines, Pralhad Joshi on 29th June launched India's inaugural report on Critical Minerals for India.
An overview of the news
The report identifies 30 critical minerals that are crucial for various sectors such as defense, agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, and telecom.
This comprehensive list represents a significant milestone in India's efforts to achieve self-reliance and security in terms of mineral resources.
The report aligns with India's vision of attaining 'Net Zero' targets, emphasizing the importance of sustainable resource management.
The purpose of the list is to provide guidance for policy formulation, strategic planning, and investment decisions within the mining sector.
By identifying critical minerals, India aims to enhance its domestic production capabilities, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen its mineral security.
The report's findings will play a vital role in shaping India's mineral resource policies and facilitating long-term sustainability in key sectors of the economy.
What are Critical Minerals?
Critical minerals are a specific group of minerals that play a vital role in various sectors of the economy, including defense, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.
These minerals are essential for the production of high-tech products, renewable energy technologies, advanced defense systems, and other critical applications.
Critical minerals possess unique properties and characteristics that make them difficult to substitute or replace with alternative materials.
The identification and strategic management of critical minerals are crucial for ensuring the economic growth, security, and sustainability of a country's industries.
2. India's first-ever report on Critical Minerals for India unveils
Tags: National National News
Union Minister of Mines, Pralhad Joshi on 29th June launched India's inaugural report on Critical Minerals for India.
An overview of the news
The report identifies 30 critical minerals that are crucial for various sectors such as defense, agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, and telecom.
This comprehensive list represents a significant milestone in India's efforts to achieve self-reliance and security in terms of mineral resources.
The report aligns with India's vision of attaining 'Net Zero' targets, emphasizing the importance of sustainable resource management.
The purpose of the list is to provide guidance for policy formulation, strategic planning, and investment decisions within the mining sector.
By identifying critical minerals, India aims to enhance its domestic production capabilities, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen its mineral security.
The report's findings will play a vital role in shaping India's mineral resource policies and facilitating long-term sustainability in key sectors of the economy.
What are Critical Minerals?
Critical minerals are a specific group of minerals that play a vital role in various sectors of the economy, including defense, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.
These minerals are essential for the production of high-tech products, renewable energy technologies, advanced defense systems, and other critical applications.
Critical minerals possess unique properties and characteristics that make them difficult to substitute or replace with alternative materials.
The identification and strategic management of critical minerals are crucial for ensuring the economic growth, security, and sustainability of a country's industries.
3. Union Cabinet approved PM-PRANAM scheme
Tags: Economy/Finance National News
The Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 28 June approved the PM-PRANAM Scheme.
An overview of the news
The scheme is aimed at incentivising states to use alternative, non-chemical fertilisers.
The cavinet also decided to continue the current urea subsidy for three years starting FY23, with an outlay of Rs 3.68 trillion.
About PM-PRANAM Scheme
The full name of PM PRANAM is Promotion of Alternative Nutrients for Agriculture Management Scheme.
Aim of the Scheme :
to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers
Reducing the subsidy burden on chemical fertilisers, which is projected to reach Rs 2.25 lakh crore in 2022-23 - 39 per cent more than last year's figure of Rs 1.62 lakh crore.
70 percent of the grant provided under the scheme can be used for asset creation related to technology adoption of alternative fertilizers and alternative fertilizer production units at village, block and district level.
Introduction of sulphur-coated urea (Urea Gold)
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has made a significant decision to introduce sulphur-coated urea, also known as Urea Gold, in the country.
This move aims to address the issue of sulphur deficiency in the soil.
Sulphur-coated urea offers a more economical and efficient solution compared to other types of urea available in the market.
It provides a higher nitrogen absorption rate, leading to better crop productivity.
Conventional urea typically has a nitrogen absorption rate of around 30%.
Neem-coated urea, which is another alternative, offers a higher absorption rate of 50%.
4. UN chief appoints Xu Haoliang of China as deputy head of UNDP
Tags: Person in news International News
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has announced the appointment of Xu Haoliang from China as the new Undersecretary-General and Associate Administrator of the UN Development Programme (UNDP).
An overview of the news
Xu Haoliang will succeed Usha Rao-Monari from India in this role.
Xu has been serving as the UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support at the UNDP since 2019.
Prior to that, from 2013 to 2019, he held the position of UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific.
He has worked in various capacities within the United Nations, undertaking assignments both in the field and at headquarters in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Central Asia.
Before joining the United Nations, Xu worked in the field of civil engineering in China and the United States.
His academic qualifications include a bachelor's degree in engineering from Tongji University in China, a master's degree in management science from the Stevens Institute of Technology in the United States, and a master's degree in international affairs from Columbia University.
Xu is proficient in Chinese, English, and Russian.
About The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
It is the leading agency of the United Nations.
It works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality in 170 countries and territories.
It helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and to build resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Its work is concentrated in three focus areas; sustainable development, democratic governance and peace building, and climate and disaster resilience.
5. DoT announces ‘5G & Beyond Hackathon 2023’
Tags: National News
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has been actively organizing Hackathons to foster the development of 5G products and solutions.
An overview of the news
These initiatives have led to the creation of innovative 5G products and solutions across various technological verticals.
In continuation of these efforts, the DoT has announced the commencement of applications for the '5G & Beyond Hackathon 2023' from June 28, 2023.
The primary objective of this hackathon is to identify cutting-edge ideas with a focus on India, which can be transformed into practical and effective 5G and beyond products and solutions.
A total prize pool of Rs one crore will be distributed among one hundred winners of the hackathon.
Additionally, the winners will have the unique opportunity to receive guidance from mentors representing the government, industry, academia, Telcos/OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), and other relevant stakeholders.
The aim is to promote the exploration of these domains and harness the potential of 5G technology in addressing real-world challenges.
The 5G & Beyond Hackathon is open to individuals, students, start-ups, and academic institutions across India.
6. Canada launches 'Digital Nomad Strategy' for foreign workers
Tags: International News
Canada launched the "Digital Nomad Strategy" to address its skilled labour shortage, particularly in the tech industry.
An Overview of the News
The strategy aims to attract talented individuals from around the world.
The shortage of skilled workers, particularly in the tech industry, has prompted Canada to take proactive measures.
The announcement was made during Collision's technical conference in Toronto.
The strategy focuses primarily on the technology industry, recognizing its importance in driving innovation and economic growth.
Digital Nomad Strategy
Foreign workers are allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months under the Digital Nomad Strategy.
If digital nomads receive job offers during their stay, they have the option of extending their time in the country.
The strategy aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in Canada's tech sector.
Digital nomads can continue their remote working arrangements while living in Canada.
This strategy encourages networking and collaboration between foreign workers, local professionals and Canadian businesses.
About Canada
Capital - Ottawa
Currency - Canadian Dollar
Official languages - English and French
National Symbol - Maple Leaf
Prime Minister - Justin Trudeau
7. Cabinet approves Introduction of National Research Foundation Bill, 2023
Tags: National National News
The Union Cabinet on 28th June under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the introduction of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023 in the Parliament.
An overview of the news
This bill will facilitate the establishment of NRF, which will play a pivotal role in nurturing and advancing Research and Development (R&D) efforts and fostering a culture of research and innovation across universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories in India.
The key objective of NRF is to create a policy framework and regulatory processes that stimulate collaboration and increased investment by industries in R&D endeavors.
Once the bill is approved by Parliament, NRF will be established as an apex body, aligning with the recommendations outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP).
The estimated total cost for NRF's operations over a span of five years (2023-28) is projected to be Rs 50,000 crore.
Administrative responsibilities of NRF
The administrative responsibilities of NRF will be overseen by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
A distinguished Governing Board, comprising renowned researchers and professionals from various disciplines, will govern the NRF.
The Prime Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board, while the Union Minister of Science & Technology and Union Minister of Education will act as the ex-officio Vice-Presidents.
Additionally, an Executive Council, chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, will govern NRF's day-to-day operations.
Functions of NRF
NRF will focus on fostering collaborations among academia, industry, government departments, and research institutions.
It will establish an interface mechanism to encourage active participation and contribution from industries and state governments, in addition to scientific and line ministries.
Moreover, the bill will entail the repeal of the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), established in 2008 through an act of Parliament.
This legislative move highlights the government's commitment to promoting research, development, and innovation in India.
8. Cabinet approves Introduction of National Research Foundation Bill, 2023
Tags: National National News
The Union Cabinet on 28th June under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the introduction of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023 in the Parliament.
An overview of the news
This bill will facilitate the establishment of NRF, which will play a pivotal role in nurturing and advancing Research and Development (R&D) efforts and fostering a culture of research and innovation across universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories in India.
The key objective of NRF is to create a policy framework and regulatory processes that stimulate collaboration and increased investment by industries in R&D endeavors.
Once the bill is approved by Parliament, NRF will be established as an apex body, aligning with the recommendations outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP).
The estimated total cost for NRF's operations over a span of five years (2023-28) is projected to be Rs 50,000 crore.
Administrative responsibilities of NRF
The administrative responsibilities of NRF will be overseen by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
A distinguished Governing Board, comprising renowned researchers and professionals from various disciplines, will govern the NRF.
The Prime Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board, while the Union Minister of Science & Technology and Union Minister of Education will act as the ex-officio Vice-Presidents.
Additionally, an Executive Council, chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, will govern NRF's day-to-day operations.
Functions of NRF
NRF will focus on fostering collaborations among academia, industry, government departments, and research institutions.
It will establish an interface mechanism to encourage active participation and contribution from industries and state governments, in addition to scientific and line ministries.
Moreover, the bill will entail the repeal of the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), established in 2008 through an act of Parliament.
This legislative move highlights the government's commitment to promoting research, development, and innovation in India.
9. Cabinet approves ratification of HQA between India and CDRI
Tags: National News
Cabinet approves ratification of the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) between India and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
An Overview of the News
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the ratification of the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) between the Government of India (GoI) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) signed on August 22, 2022.
Headquarters grants exemptions, immunities and privileges to CDRI.
This gives CDRI an independent and international legal personality.
Launch and Objectives of CDRI
The CDRI was launched by the Prime Minister of India during the United Nations Climate Action Summit on September 23, 2019.
CDRI is a major global initiative aimed at climate change and disaster resilience.
CDRI setup and support
The cabinet approved the setting up of CDRI on August 28, 2019.
The Subsidiary Secretariat of CDRI is located in New Delhi.
Government of India provides financial assistance of Rs 480 crore to CDRI over a period of 5 years (2019-20 to 2023-24).
Recognition of CDRI as an International Organization
On June 29, 2022, the cabinet approved the recognition of CDRI as an international organization.
The Headquarters Agreement (HQA) facilitates these benefits under the United Nations (P&I) Act, 1947.
CDRI's Global Partnership and Objectives
CDRI is a global partnership that includes national governments, United Nations agencies, multilateral development banks, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and knowledge centers.
CDRI aims to promote the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks.
Its objective is to ensure sustainable development.
Membership and expansion of CDRI
CDRI has attracted 31 countries, 6 international organizations and 2 private sector organizations as members.
Membership includes economically advanced countries, developing countries and countries vulnerable to climate change and disasters.
CDRI is continuously expanding its membership to include various countries.
10. 17th Indian Cooperative Congress
Tags: Summits National News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 17th Indian Cooperative Congress (ICC) on the 1st July at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.
An overview of the news
The National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) is organizing the two-day event with the theme "Amrit Kaal: Prosperity through Cooperation for a Vibrant India."
The Union Home and Cooperation Minister, Amit Shah, will chair the congress.
The Indian Cooperative Congress aims to discuss various trends in the cooperative movement, showcase best practices adopted by successful cooperatives, and deliberate on the challenges faced by the cooperative world.
An exhibition will also be held during the congress, showcasing various products of Self-Help Groups and NCUI Cooperative Education Field Projects under the banner of NCUI HAAT.
The event is expected to connect approximately five crore members live during the congress.
About National Cooperative Union of India
It is the apex organization representing the entire cooperative movement in India.
It was established in 1929 as the All India Cooperative Institutes Association.
Through the merger of the Indian Provincial Cooperative Banks' Association with the All India Cooperative Institutes Association, it was reorganized as the Indian Cooperative Union.
In 1961, it took on its current name as the National Cooperative Union of India.
Since its inception, the NCUI has been at the forefront of the cooperative movement in India, acting as a torchbearer.
The NCUI plays a vital role in promoting and supporting cooperative initiatives throughout the country.
