1. Newly-Formed NDA Government Convenes First Cabinet Meeting in New Delhi
Tags: National News
The newly-formed NDA government held its first cabinet meeting in New Delhi on 10th June.
An Overview of the News
The government will provide assistance for house construction to an additional three crore rural and urban households.
This decision addresses the housing needs due to an increase in the number of eligible families.
The central government has been implementing the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana since 2015.
The scheme provides assistance to eligible rural and urban households for constructing houses with basic amenities.
Over the last ten years, 4.21 crore houses have been completed under the scheme for eligible poor families.
Houses constructed under the scheme include basic amenities such as household toilets, LPG connections, electricity connections, and functional household tap connections.
These amenities are provided through convergence with other schemes of the Central Government and State Governments.
About NDA
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the joint training institute for the Indian Armed Forces.
Cadets from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force train together at the NDA.
After NDA, cadets proceed to their respective service academies for further training before commissioning.
Established:- 7 December 1949
Commandant:- Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM
2. Supreme Court of India Revamps Gender Sensitization Committee
Tags: National News
The Supreme Court of India has restructured its Gender Sensitization and Internal Complaints Committee (GSICC) to align with the 2013 regulations on Gender Sensitization and Sexual Harassment.
An Overview of the News
This move underscores the judiciary's commitment to addressing gender issues.
Committee Leadership
Led by the Chief Justice of India.
Justice Hima Kohli appointed as chairperson.
Justice BV Nagarathna and Dr. Sukhda Pritam appointed as members.
Leadership combines legal and academic expertise for enhanced effectiveness.
Membership Composition
Includes representatives from:
Supreme Court Bar Association
Supreme Court Advocate-on-Record Association
Supreme Court Bar Clerks’ Association
Notable members appointed by the Chief Justice of India:
Shruti Pandey
Jaideep Gupta
Dr. Leni Chaudhuri
Dr. Menaka Guruswamy
Ensures a multidisciplinary approach.
Continuity and Forward Planning
Justice Hima Kohli's leadership ensures stability and continuity.
Her experience is crucial for fair handling of gender sensitization and sexual harassment complaints.
Structured approach reinforces the committee’s role in promoting gender equality in the judiciary.
Facts about the Supreme Court of India
Establishment and Structure
Established: January 28, 1950.
Location: New Delhi, designed by Ganesh Bhikaji Deolalikar, the first Indian chief architect of CPWD.
Initial Judges: 8
Current Judges: 34
Significant Aspects and Contributions
First Judgment: Delivered in 1950 in State of Bihar v. Kameshwar Singh.
Symbol: Features the Scales of Justice superimposed on Ashoka’s Lion Capital.
Notable Case: Ayodhya land dispute, the longest hearing lasting 40 days.
Emergency Period (1975-1977): Supreme Court’s powers were significantly curtailed.
Legal and Social Impact
Retired judges are prohibited from practicing law in any court or before any authority in India.
Enhanced gender sensitivity by permitting women to serve at night in previously restricted professions and spaces.
3. Indian Diaspora Artists Curate a Unique Art Showcase Centered around Paramount Classics
Tags: International News
The PaintBrush Art Community, consisting of Indian diaspora artists in the UAE, organized the "Retro Revival" exhibition.
An Overview of the News
This collaborative artistic venture unites 22 artists hailing from 8 different countries, aiming to honor the iconic Paramount movies from Hollywood's golden era.
Artistic Homage
Vibrant paintings revisit beloved films such as The Terminator, Titanic, The Godfather, Sleepy Hollow, Tomb Raider, and Top Gun.
The artworks aim to capture the essence and magic of these classic movies, transporting viewers to a time of cinematic excellence.
Cultural Icons Depicted
"Retro Revival" extends beyond cinema, encompassing artistic representations of legendary personalities such as Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and Bob Marley.
These artworks serve as a homage to the cultural giants and the eras they defined.
Inspiration from Paramount Pictures
The exhibition draws inspiration from Paramount Pictures, one of the oldest and most influential film studios globally.
UAE as a Hub for the Arts
The UAE has witnessed a significant rise as a hub for the arts, fostering a dynamic environment for creative expression.
Government-backed initiatives, including world-class museums, galleries, and renowned events like World Art Dubai and the Sharjah Biennale, contribute to this vibrant scene.
This focus on arts and culture has attracted not only Indian artists but has also empowered the local art community.
4. Philemon Yang Elected President of the Upcoming General Assembly Session
Tags: International News
Philemon Yang of Cameroon was elected President of the upcoming General Assembly session.
An Overview of the News
Philemon Yang served as the President of the African Union’s Panel of Eminent Africans.
Theme of the 79th Session
Proposed theme: “Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for all everywhere.”
Dialogue and consensus: Yang highlighted the importance of dialogue, consensus and collective problem-solving.
Session dates
Event: The 79th session of the General Assembly will begin on 10 September.
High-level debate: The general debate will begin on 24 September 2024.
About UN
The United Nations (UN) is a diplomatic and political international organization.
Its stated purposes are:
Maintain international peace and security.
Develop friendly relations among nations.
Achieve international cooperation.
Serve as a center for harmonizing the actions of nations.
It is the world's largest international organization.
Founders:- United States, India, United Kingdom, Brazil, France, Iran
Founded:- 24 October 1945, San Francisco, California, United States
Headquarters: New York, New York, United States
Secretary‑General - António Guterres
5. Lok Sabha Secretariat develops "Prerana Sthal"
Tags: National News
The Lok Sabha Secretariat is developing "Prerana Sthal" within the Parliament House Complex.
An Overview of the News
Statues of renowned leaders and freedom fighters will be relocated to Prerana Sthal from various parts of the Complex.
The objective is to create a unified space where visitors can easily view and draw inspiration from these statues.
The initiative aims to enhance the overall attractiveness and grandeur of the Parliament Complex.
Following the construction of the new Parliament Building, a landscaping and beautification plan has been devised.
Prerana Sthal will incorporate modern technology to provide detailed information about the lives and contributions of the featured leaders to visitors.
New Parliament House, New Delhi:
The new Parliament building in New Delhi was inaugurated on May 28, 2023, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Situated on Rafi Marg within the Central Vista, it is surrounded by key landmarks like the Old Parliament House, India Gate, and the Vice President's House.
Officially named Parliament of India, it was first used for business on September 19, 2023, during a special session.
The need for a new parliament arose in the early 2010s due to stability concerns with the old structure.
A committee, established in 2012 by then-Speaker Meira Kumar, explored alternatives to the existing building.
The original 93-year-old structure lacked space and structural stability, prompting plans for its replacement while ensuring preservation of its heritage value.
6. Krishn Kanhai Unveils 'The Golden Krishna' Exhibition in Dubai
Tags: International News
On May 31, 2024, renowned Indian artist Krishna Kanhai unveiled "The Golden Krishna" collection in Dubai.
An Overview of the News
Exhibition focuses on Lord Krishna, showcasing Kanhai's latest works.
Showcase includes a life-sized, 3D painting of Tirupati Balaji made with 24-karat gold.
Painting measures 5 feet by 8 feet, exemplifying Kanhai's signature style.
Kanhai, a Padma Shri recipient, known for exhibitions worldwide including Hong Kong, London, the Philippines, and the United States.
Artistic Themes:
Contemporary paintings blend gold leaves with traditional Krishna themes.
Artworks evoke emotions of love, peace, and tranquility associated with Krishna.
Exhibition Experience:
Visitors invited to a three-day journey through Kanhai's spiritual world.
Celebration of Krishna's pastimes and life lessons.
Exhibition runs until June 2nd, offering audiences a unique artistic experience.
7. India announces $1 million relief assistance to landslide-hit Papua New Guinea
Tags: International Relations International News
India announces immediate relief assistance of one million US dollars to aid Papua New Guinea.
An Overview of the News
The assistance aims to support relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts following a devastating landslide in Enga Province on May 24th.
The landslide buried hundreds of people, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life.
Condolences and Support:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses grief over the loss of lives and damage caused by the landslide.
In a social media post, Mr. Modi extends heartfelt condolences to the affected families and offers prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
India stands ready to offer all possible support and assistance to Papua New Guinea during this difficult time.
Geographical Background Of Papua New Guinea:
New Guinea, the world's second-largest island, covers an area of 785,753 km2.
Situated in Oceania, it lies in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, adjacent to Australia, separated by the Torres Strait.
The island is surrounded by numerous smaller islands to the west and east.
India-Papua New Guinea Relations:
Diplomatic ties between India and Papua New Guinea were established in 1975 upon PNG's independence from Australia.
India opened its resident mission in Port Moresby in 1996, reciprocated by PNG with a resident mission in New Delhi in 2006.
Both nations, being Commonwealth countries, share warm relations, aligning closely on various global issues.
Collaboration extends to international forums like the Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement, and the United Nations Organization.
Humanitarian Aid and Assistance:
India extends humanitarian aid and disaster relief to PNG periodically.
In 2023, assistance included drugs for HIV/AIDS patients.
A grant-in-aid totaling US $760,000 provided computers and peripherals to PNG in 2017-18.
Capacity-building efforts involve training through programs like Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) and the Colombo Plan.
Ongoing implementation of aid proposals in various fields submitted by PNG under the annual grant-in-aid.
A Centre of Excellence in Information Technology was established at the University of PNG with Indian financial and technical assistance.
In 2018, Government of India provided assistance of US$1 million for earthquake relief in areas affected by the PNG earthquake.
8. India announces $1 million relief assistance to landslide-hit Papua New Guinea
Tags: International Relations International News
India announces immediate relief assistance of one million US dollars to aid Papua New Guinea.
An Overview of the News
The assistance aims to support relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts following a devastating landslide in Enga Province on May 24th.
The landslide buried hundreds of people, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life.
Condolences and Support:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses grief over the loss of lives and damage caused by the landslide.
In a social media post, Mr. Modi extends heartfelt condolences to the affected families and offers prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
India stands ready to offer all possible support and assistance to Papua New Guinea during this difficult time.
Geographical Background Of Papua New Guinea:
New Guinea, the world's second-largest island, covers an area of 785,753 km2.
Situated in Oceania, it lies in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, adjacent to Australia, separated by the Torres Strait.
The island is surrounded by numerous smaller islands to the west and east.
India-Papua New Guinea Relations:
Diplomatic ties between India and Papua New Guinea were established in 1975 upon PNG's independence from Australia.
India opened its resident mission in Port Moresby in 1996, reciprocated by PNG with a resident mission in New Delhi in 2006.
Both nations, being Commonwealth countries, share warm relations, aligning closely on various global issues.
Collaboration extends to international forums like the Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement, and the United Nations Organization.
Humanitarian Aid and Assistance:
India extends humanitarian aid and disaster relief to PNG periodically.
In 2023, assistance included drugs for HIV/AIDS patients.
A grant-in-aid totaling US $760,000 provided computers and peripherals to PNG in 2017-18.
Capacity-building efforts involve training through programs like Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) and the Colombo Plan.
Ongoing implementation of aid proposals in various fields submitted by PNG under the annual grant-in-aid.
A Centre of Excellence in Information Technology was established at the University of PNG with Indian financial and technical assistance.
In 2018, Government of India provided assistance of US$1 million for earthquake relief in areas affected by the PNG earthquake.
9. FICCI organised India Cold Chain and Logistics Summit in New Delhi
Tags: National News
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) organised a summit in New Delhi to enhance India's cold chain and logistics sector.
An Overview of the News
The summit's aims to promote collaboration and innovation to develop an integrated, sustainable, and efficient cold chain ecosystem for India's perishable goods industry.
Dr. Surendra Ahirwar, Joint Secretary of DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the importance of discussing the the Cold Chain and Logistics sector.
The discussions aim to redefine logistics mechanisms across various sectors, including Pharma, Food, Oil, and Flowers.
Over 250 delegates from different industry sectors across the country are participating in the summit.
About FICCI
Founded:- 1927
Founder:- Ghanshyam Das Birla
President:- Subhrakant Panda
Headquarters:- New Delhi
10. Gitanas Nauseda Re-elected Lithuanian President
Tags: Person in news International News
Gitanas Nauseda has been re-elected as the President of the Republic of Lithuania, securing a second five-year term from 2024 to 2029.
An Overview of the News
Gitanas Nauseda has held the office of President since 2019.
Nauseda won the presidential election with an impressive 74.43% of the total votes cast.
Ingrida Simonyte came in second place, securing 24.06% of the votes.
Background of Gitanas Nauseda:
Gitanas Nauseda, aged 60, holds expertise in economics, banking, and politics, hailing from Lithuania.
From 1996 to 2000, Nauseda occupied the role of Director of Monetary Policy at the Bank of Lithuania.
He further contributed to the banking sector as the Chief Economist to the Chairman of SEB bankas, a prominent commercial bank in Lithuania, spanning from 2008 to 2018.
In his capacity as President, Nauseda addressed Lithuania's responses to the Belarusian uprisings occurring between 2020 and 2021, as well as Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
About Lithuania
It is one of the three Baltic countries located in the northeastern region of Europe, alongside Estonia and Latvia.
It became a member of the European Union in 2004.
The Prime Minister of Lithuania is Ingrida Simonyte.
Gitanas Nauseda serves as the President of Lithuania.
The capital city of Lithuania is Vilnius.
The currency used in Lithuania is the Lithuanian litas (LTL).
