1. India, Sri Lanka to accelerate implementation of digital education project in Galle District
Tags: International Relations International News
India and Sri Lanka have expressed their commitment to fast-tracking the implementation of a digital education project in the Galle District, Sri Lanka.
An overview of the news
The High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Gopal Baglay, and the Secretary of the Sri Lankan Ministry of Education, M N Ranasinghe, exchanged diplomatic notes to accelerate the establishment of modern computer labs and smart boards in 200 schools.
These facilities will be equipped with customized curriculum software.
The project is aimed at promoting digital literacy among students in underprivileged areas of the Galle District.
It is supported by a grant from the Government of India.
This digital education initiative is part of a broader set of grant projects in the education sector undertaken by the Indian government in Sri Lanka, highlighting their commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the country.
India's development assistance to Sri Lanka
India's development assistance to Sri Lanka encompasses a total amount of approximately USD 5 billion, with nearly USD 600 million provided as grants.
Across Sri Lanka's 25 districts, more than 65 grant projects have already been implemented, demonstrating the substantial support from India in various sectors.
The digital education project in the Galle District is among more than 20 ongoing projects that are at different stages of implementation, further illustrating the sustained collaboration between India and Sri Lanka in driving socio-economic development in the region.
About sri lanka
The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a tropical island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian subcontinent.
Sri Lanka is separated from the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Munnar and the Palk Strait.
Capital: Colombo (Executive and Judicial) and Sri Jayawardenepura (Legislative).
Official languages: Sinhala and Tamil
President – Ranil Wickremesinghe
Prime Minister – Dinesh Gunawardena
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee
2. United Nations adopt first-ever treaty to protect marine life in high seas
Tags: Environment International News
The United Nations on 19 June adopted the first-ever treaty to protect marine life in the high seas, setting a significant milestone in ocean conservation.
An overview of the news
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised the historic agreement and stressed its importance in providing a fighting chance against the many threats to the ocean.
Delegates representing all 193 member states expressed their happiness in accepting the treaty.
Addressing the delegates, Secretary-General Guterres stressed that the adoption of the treaty comes at a critical time when the oceans are facing many challenges.
He urged all countries to spare no effort to sign and ratify the treaty immediately.
The treaty aims to protect biodiversity in the high seas, which cover about half of the Earth's surface and lie beyond national boundaries.
Negotiations on this treaty had been going on for 20 years, facing many obstacles and delays in reaching an agreement.
Signing of Treaty
On 20 September, during the annual meeting of world leaders at the General Assembly, the treaty will be open for signature, signaling countries' commitment to its principles.
The treaty will come into force after 60 countries have ratified it, indicating their willingness to abide by its provisions and actively contribute to marine conservation efforts.
Need of Oceans Protection
The ocean plays a critical role in supporting the livelihoods of three billion people worldwide and serves as a vital ecosystem that sustains human life and economic well-being.
The ocean is a fundamental source of food and economic security for millions of people.
Its ecosystems, including fisheries and aquaculture, provide sustenance and income for communities globally.
It has absorbed approximately 93% of the heat generated by greenhouse gases, helping to mitigate the impacts of global warming.
It serves as a source of resources such as energy, minerals, and materials that are crucial for various industries and economic sectors.
3. Bureau of Indian Standards makes license mandatory for 24 footwear products
Tags: National Economy/Finance National News
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license will be mandatory for 24 footwear products from July 1, 2023.
An overview of the news
Small-scale footwear manufacturers will have to comply by January 1, 2024, while micro-footwear industries will be subject to mandatory quality standards from July 1, 2024.
It aims to reduce sub-standard imports, especially from countries like China.
According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), this Quality Control Order (QCO) will ensure production of high quality footwear domestically and curb substandard imports.
QCO for footwear and related products
The QCO for 24 footwear and related products was initially notified in October 2020.
The 24 footwear products covered by the quality standards include rubber gum boots, PVC sandals, rubber thongs, chappals, molded plastic footwear, footwear used for municipal cleaning work, sports footwear, derby shoes, riot-proof shoes and molded Includes solid rubber sole.
At present, 27 out of 54 footwear products are covered by QCO, and the remaining 27 more footwear products will be covered within the next six months.
BIS has revised five footwear specification standards, giving the industry an additional time of six months till January 1, 2024, to comply with the QCOs.
To support the implementation and testing of footwear products, testing facilities have been set up at two BIS laboratories, two Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) laboratories, Central Leather Research Institute and eleven private laboratories.
In addition, mandatory compliance of quality standards for "protective clothing for fire fighting" and "19 products related to geotextiles" will come into effect from October this year.
At present, 470 products are covered under mandatory quality standards, and BIS has shared additional 600 products with ministries to bring them under QCO.
‘Manak Rath' Online Exchange Forum
Additionally, BIS has launched an online exchange forum called 'Manak Rath' on its website, which provides a platform for users to connect and share their views.
Student members of Standard Clubs can participate in various activities and competitions, with the opportunity to win exciting prizes.
About Bureau of Indian Standards
Bureau of Indian Standards is the national standards body of India under the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India.
Headquarter- Manak Bhawan, Old Delhi
Director General- Pramod Kumar Tiwari
Established- 23 December 1986
4. Bureau of Indian Standards makes license mandatory for 24 footwear products
Tags: National Economy/Finance National News
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license will be mandatory for 24 footwear products from July 1, 2023.
An overview of the news
Small-scale footwear manufacturers will have to comply by January 1, 2024, while micro-footwear industries will be subject to mandatory quality standards from July 1, 2024.
It aims to reduce sub-standard imports, especially from countries like China.
According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), this Quality Control Order (QCO) will ensure production of high quality footwear domestically and curb substandard imports.
QCO for footwear and related products
The QCO for 24 footwear and related products was initially notified in October 2020.
The 24 footwear products covered by the quality standards include rubber gum boots, PVC sandals, rubber thongs, chappals, molded plastic footwear, footwear used for municipal cleaning work, sports footwear, derby shoes, riot-proof shoes and molded Includes solid rubber sole.
At present, 27 out of 54 footwear products are covered by QCO, and the remaining 27 more footwear products will be covered within the next six months.
BIS has revised five footwear specification standards, giving the industry an additional time of six months till January 1, 2024, to comply with the QCOs.
To support the implementation and testing of footwear products, testing facilities have been set up at two BIS laboratories, two Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) laboratories, Central Leather Research Institute and eleven private laboratories.
In addition, mandatory compliance of quality standards for "protective clothing for fire fighting" and "19 products related to geotextiles" will come into effect from October this year.
At present, 470 products are covered under mandatory quality standards, and BIS has shared additional 600 products with ministries to bring them under QCO.
‘Manak Rath' Online Exchange Forum
Additionally, BIS has launched an online exchange forum called 'Manak Rath' on its website, which provides a platform for users to connect and share their views.
Student members of Standard Clubs can participate in various activities and competitions, with the opportunity to win exciting prizes.
About Bureau of Indian Standards
Bureau of Indian Standards is the national standards body of India under the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India.
Headquarter- Manak Bhawan, Old Delhi
Director General- Pramod Kumar Tiwari
Established- 23 December 1986
5. Joint Exercise 'Khaan Quest’ 2023'
Tags: Defence International News
With the participation of military contingents and observers from more than 20 countries, the multinational peacekeeping joint exercise "Ex Khan Quest 2023" began in Mongolia on 19 June.
An overview of the news
The ceremony was inaugurated by Mongolian President Ukhnagin Khurelsukh at the exercise site.
The exercise is jointly sponsored by the Mongolian Armed Forces (MAF) and the United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC).
The Indian Army is being represented by a contingent of the Garhwal Rifles.
Purpose of the exercise
The 14-day exercise aims to improve interoperability among the participating countries, facilitate exchange of experiences and provide training to uniformed personnel for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO).
Significance of exercise
The exercise will help prepare participants for future UN peacekeeping operations, enhance peacekeeping capabilities and improve military preparedness.
It includes various activities like Command Post Exercise (CPX), Field Training Exercise (FTX), Combat Discussion, Lectures and Demonstrations.
This military exercise will strengthen defense cooperation between the Indian Army and the participating countries, especially the Mongolian Armed Forces, thereby enhancing bilateral relations between India and Mongolia.
About Mongolia
It is located in North Central Asia.
Capital: Ulaanbaatar
Currency: Tugrik
President: Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh
6. NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam commissions first solar rooftop project at IIT Jodhpur
Tags: National National News
NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Ltd (NVVN) commissioned its first rooftop solar PV project at IIT Jodhpur, Rajasthan on June 14, 2023.
An overview of the news
The 1 MW grid-connected solar project has been implemented by NVVN under the RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model.
The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) duration for the project is 25 years.
NVVN, an arm of state-run power producer NTPC, is responsible for the project implementation.
The rooftop solar project is installed on the roofs of 14 buildings within the IIT Jodhpur campus.
The project is expected to generate around 14.9 lakh units of electricity annually, meeting 15% of IIT Jodhpur's electricity requirement.
The rooftop project will contribute to a reduction of 1,060 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
NVVN was established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of NTPC in 2002 to explore the potential of power trading in India.
7. NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam commissions first solar rooftop project at IIT Jodhpur
Tags: National National News
NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Ltd (NVVN) commissioned its first rooftop solar PV project at IIT Jodhpur, Rajasthan on June 14, 2023.
An overview of the news
The 1 MW grid-connected solar project has been implemented by NVVN under the RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model.
The Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) duration for the project is 25 years.
NVVN, an arm of state-run power producer NTPC, is responsible for the project implementation.
The rooftop solar project is installed on the roofs of 14 buildings within the IIT Jodhpur campus.
The project is expected to generate around 14.9 lakh units of electricity annually, meeting 15% of IIT Jodhpur's electricity requirement.
The rooftop project will contribute to a reduction of 1,060 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
NVVN was established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of NTPC in 2002 to explore the potential of power trading in India.
8. Nusrat Chowdhary will become the first Muslim woman federal judge in US history
Tags: Person in news International News
Nusrat Chowdhry, a civil rights lawyer, has been confirmed by the US Senate for appointment as the first Muslim female federal judge in US history.
An overview of the news
She became the first Bangladeshi American and the first Muslim American woman to become a federal judge.
She will serve as a federal judge in Brooklyn federal court in New York after receiving a 50-49 vote along party lines.
Endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), she currently holds the position of Legal Director for the ACLU of Illinois.
Chowdhary previously served in the ACLU National Office and was the Deputy Director of the ACLU Racial Justice Program.
Chowdhury has a notable academic background, having graduated from Columbia, Princeton and Yale Law Schools.
He has also served as clerk to chief justices in the US District Court and US Circuit Court of Appeals.
Earlier, in 2019, Zahid Qureshi became the country's first federal Muslim judge when he was confirmed to serve as a district court judge in New Jersey.
9. Centre discontinues sale of rice, wheat under OMSS Scheme
Tags: Economy/Finance Government Schemes National News
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The central government has discontinued the sale of rice and wheat from the central pool under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) to state governments.
An overview of the news
This decision will affect some states, including Karnataka, that provide free grains to the poor through their own schemes.
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) has issued an order stating that the sale of wheat and rice under the OMSS for state governments is discontinued.
However, the sale of rice under the OMSS will continue for northeastern states, hilly states, and states facing law and order situations or natural calamities at the existing rate of Rs 3,400 per quintal.
FCI may sell rice under the OMSS to private parties from the central pool stock to moderate market prices.
The central government had previously allowed states to buy rice and wheat from the FCI for their own schemes without participating in e-auctions as part of the OMSS policy for 2023.
Rice prices
Rice prices have been increasing due to the slow progress of the monsoon and have risen by up to 10% in the last year at the mandi level.
The monsoon rains are crucial for rice production as about 80% of the country's total rice production is grown during the kharif season.
Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)
Nodal Agency- Food Corporation of India (FCI)
Purpose- To sell foodgrains, especially wheat and rice, at predetermined prices in the open market.
Mode of Selling- Weekly auctions by FCI on the platform of the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Limited.
Quantity allowed in a bidding - A bidder can purchase in a single bid range from 10-100 tonne.
OMSS comprises 2 schemes
-Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
-Sale of Raw Rice Grade ‘A’ to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
About Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)
It is a government initiative launched with the aim of reducing the excess stock of food grains.
Nodal Agency- Food Corporation of India (FCI)
Its objective is to sell food grains, especially wheat and rice, in the open market at pre-determined prices.
The sales are carried out through weekly auctions by FCI on the platform of National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Limited.
Under this a bidder can buy in a single bid range of 10-100 tonnes.
Schemes for sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction and sale of grade 'A' raw rice to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction are included under OMSS.
About Food Corporation of India (FCI)
It is a prominent Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution in India.
It was established in 1965 to ensure food security and support the nation's public distribution system.
FCI's primary mandate is to procure, store, and distribute food grains across the country.
It aims to maintain an adequate buffer stock of essential commodities and provide timely and affordable food grains to the vulnerable sections of society.
FCI undertakes the procurement of food grains from farmers at Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) declared by the government.
It procures crops such as wheat, rice, and coarse grains directly from farmers through designated procurement centers.
10. DAC approves procurement of armed UAV MQ-9 Predator drones from US
Tags: National Defence National News
India’s defence ministry on 15th June approved the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B armed drones from the US.
An overview of the news
The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of armed Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at a cost of over $3 billion.
The UAVs will be procured from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), a United States-based aeronautical company.
What are Predator Drones?
The Predator UAV, produced by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), is commonly referred to as the MQ-9.
The MQ-9 has an impressive endurance, capable of flying for over 27 hours without refueling.
It can reach speeds of up to 240 KTAS (Knots True Airspeed).
The UAV is designed to operate at high altitudes, with a maximum operating ceiling of 50,000 feet.
It possesses a substantial payload capacity, allowing it to carry up to 3,850 pounds (1,746 kilograms) of equipment, sensors, or other mission-specific payloads.
Additionally, the MQ-9 has the capability to carry external stores, such as weapons or additional fuel, with a maximum weight of 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms).
Benefits of the MQ-9 UAV
The MQ-9 UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) exhibits an increased payload capacity and horsepower in comparison to its predecessor, the MQ-1 Predator.
It offers extended endurance, persistent surveillance, and the ability to carry out strikes, providing valuable capabilities for military operations.
The MQ-9 UAV has a maritime variant known as the Sea Guardian.
The Sea Guardian variant of the MQ-9 UAV possesses an impressive endurance capability of over 30 hours, making it suitable for maritime surveillance and other related missions.
