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Current Affairs on 23 February, 2024

Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizing Clinical Medicine: Insights from Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolutionizing clinical medicine with the need for integration among existing and newer patient care tools.
Call for integration between public and private sectors in healthcare and amongst various medical practices like combining allopathy with AYUSH.
Healthcare sector receiving top priority under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Focus on Digital Health declared by PM Modi from Red Fort, emphasizing the government's intent.
Emphasis on strong Public Private extended integration for optimal healthcare results.
Recognition of the importance of integrating different streams of healthcare for successful disease management.
Initiatives like International Day of Yoga and International Year of Millets highlighted as contributions under PM Modi's leadership.
Investment in Space Startups and growth in Bio-economy showcasing advancements in these sectors.
Significant increase in Biotech and Agritech Startups in recent years.
Introduction of Anusandhan National Research Foundation to promote PPP model in scientific research.

Ayush Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Unveils Initiatives at NEIAH in Shillong

Union Minister of Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, launched projects to increase capacity at NEIAH in Shillong.
Objective is to strengthen Ayush system with scientific evidence for traditional medicine.
NEIAH has trained nearly 1000 experts in Ayurveda and Homoeopathy.
Government invested over ₹145 crores for capacity expansion at NEIAH.
Peripheral OPD services to be started in East Khasi Hills district for 40,000 people.
Programmes like Ayurvedic solutions for Iron Deficiency Anemia and Panchakarma interventions are being implemented.
Expectation is that Ayush system of medicine will become more popular and accessible with training of more students.

Condolences on the Passing of Former Chief Minister Shri Manohar Joshi

Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi, passed away.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on his demise.
Manohar Joshi was also a Lok Sabha speaker from 2002 to 2004.
PM Modi praised Joshi's contributions to Maharashtra's progress and efforts to enhance parliamentary processes during his tenure as the Speaker.
Joshi was remembered for his dedication as a legislator, having served in all four legislatures.

Cooperation Agreement between India and Oman in Archival Field

India and Oman have agreed to cooperate in the field of Archives.
An Indian delegation from the National Archives of India visited the National Records and Archives Authority of Oman.
The Indian delegation handed over a list of 70 select documents related to Oman available in the National Archives of India as a gesture of goodwill.
The documents cover a period from 1793 to 1953 and include important subjects like the change of Omani flag, succession of rulers, official visits, and treaties between the two countries.
A draft of an Executive Programme of Cooperation (EPC) was finalized for formalizing institution-to-institution cooperation.
Agreed activities include organizing joint exhibitions and conferences, exchanging digital copies of documents, sharing knowledge on digitization and preservation, and collaborating on a joint publication.
The Indian delegation also interacted with the Indian diaspora in Oman, encouraging them to preserve their private archives as a shared history between the two nations.

Expansion of Railway Connectivity in Himachal Pradesh

Una, Himachal Pradesh to Saharanpur train extended up to Haridwar for better connectivity and enhanced pilgrimage tourism.
Anurag Thakur expresses gratitude to PM Modi and Railway Minister for the decision.
Development and connectivity in Himachal Pradesh are top priorities for Anurag Thakur.
Modi government has allocated significant funds for railway expansion in Himachal Pradesh.
Various infrastructure improvements and new train services have been approved for Una district.
Industrial package announced by PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee benefitted industries in Una district.
Una is the only district in Himachal Pradesh connected to broad-gauge railway line since 1990.
Construction of Una-Hamirpur railway line announced to enhance tourism, revenue, and benefit youth in the region.
Himachal Pradesh government to contribute 1500 crore rupees and Central government 4300 crore rupees for Una-Hamirpur railway line construction.
Approval for Chakki River bridge construction to restore rail service between Pathankot and Jogindernagar received.

Exposition of Holy Relics of Lord Buddha in Thailand

The Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and His Two Disciples were enshrined at Sanam Luang Pavilion in Bangkok with great reverence and Holy Chanting.
A majestic parade showcasing the culture and Heritage of Thailand and India was organized at Royal Palace ground in Bangkok as part of a 26-day grand exposition of the Holy Relics.
An exhibition called "Buddhabhoomi Bharat" was inaugurated to showcase spiritual and religious tourist places in India.
The Governor of Bihar, along with Indian and Thai ministers, participated in the ceremony and emphasized Lord Buddha's message of love, peace, and compassion.
The cultural connection between Thailand and India was discussed during a visit to Wat Pho temple, where gifts related to Buddhism were exchanged.

Foundation Stone laid for POWERGRID Vishram Sadan at AIIMS Bilaspur

Foundation stone laid for POWERGRID Vishram Sadan at AIIMS Bilaspur by Rajya Sabha MP Shri J. P. Nadda
Projects worth approximately Rs. 50 crores being commissioned by POWERGRID for AIIMS Bilaspur under CSR initiatives
Vishram Sadan at AIIMS Bilaspur to have 4 storeys, 250 beds, and amenities like waiting hall, cafeteria, and fully equipped rooms/dormitories
MRI machine worth Rs. 16 crores and 128 Slice CT Scanner worth Rs. 7 cr to be installed for advanced medical diagnostics
POWERGRID's 'Vishram Sadan' concept aims to provide comfortable stay to patients and their attendants, reducing financial burden for those from distant areas
POWERGRID has constructed Vishram Sadans at various hospitals in India, and contributed to rural development, education, healthcare, and other social initiatives costing about Rs. 1500 crores

GeM Registration Drive for MSMEs in Karnataka

GeM, in collaboration with Laghu Udyog Bharati- Karnataka, organized a registration drive for MSE sellers in Karnataka.
The goal was to connect Central & State PSU buyers with Karnataka-based MSE sellers and increase awareness about GeM.
GeM is a digital public procurement portal facilitating procurement by various government departments, PSUs, etc.
GeM has provided significant business opportunities to MSEs, with orders worth crores transacted through the platform.
GeM plans to launch GeM Sahay 2.0, offering collateral-free loans to marginalised sellers.
The portal aims to foster inclusivity by increasing access to market for various marginalised seller groups.
Karnataka MSEs have fulfilled orders worth crores through GeM, with a substantial share coming from CPSEs.
GeM integrates seamlessly with the Udyam portal to facilitate MSME registration and onboarding.
Laghu Udyog Bharati facilitated live onboarding of MSE members from Karnataka on the GeM portal.
GeM has surpassed INR 3 lakh crore in Gross Merchandise Value this fiscal year and aims to reach INR 4 lakh crore.

Government Amends Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules

Government amended Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules to empower consumers.
Amendments reduce timeline for new electricity connections.
Consumers in multistoried flats can choose connection type.
Faster installation of Rooftop Solar Systems facilitated through the amendments.
Mandate for check meters installation by distribution companies in case of consumer complaints.
Separate connections for Electric Vehicle charging stations allowed.
Timeline reduced for obtaining new electricity connections.
Provisions for consumer choice and transparency in metering and billing in residential colonies and flats.
Additional meter to be installed within five days for complaints regarding electricity consumption discrepancies.
Government focuses on consumer interest and empowering consumers through the Rules.

India’s First Gati Shakti Research Chair at IIM Shillong

India's first 'Gati Shakti Research Chair' established at IIM Shillong by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
The chair will focus on academic research in multimodal logistics, with a special emphasis on the North-East region.
A strategic round table was organized to discuss multimodal logistics development strategies for connecting the North-Eastern Region to the national and international regions.
Ambitious projects like Arth Ganga and Mahabahu Brahmaputra have been initiated to foster socio-economic development along the River Ganga and River Brahmaputra.
The Ministry highlights the importance of the Gati Shakti vision and its role in advancing India's logistics sector, especially in the North-East.
The Gati Shakti Chair initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between the government and academia for research in integrated logistics and supply chain resilience.
The Ministry has made significant investments in infrastructure development and connectivity in the North-East region to boost economic growth and development.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, transformative initiatives have been launched to bring efficiency and scale in the logistics sector, aiming to rank in the top 25 in the Logistics Performance Index in the next five years.

Key Points from PM's Address at 647th Birth Anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas

The Prime Minister addressed the 647th Birth Anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas in Varanasi.
He welcomed Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saints, devotees, and attendees.
Highlighted the importance of Guru Ravidas ji's teachings and works.
Inaugurated and laid foundation stones for various development projects in Banaras and Sant Ravidas ji's birthplace.
Emphasized on the government's efforts for the welfare of marginalized sections, referencing various schemes like free rations, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Ayushman cards, etc.
Urged citizens to focus on national duties, unity, and development to fulfill the country's dreams.
Warned against divisive politics and caste-based discrimination, citing the teachings of Sant Ravidas ji.

Meeting Highlights and World Food India 2024

Secretary of Food Processing Industries led a meeting with stakeholders to discuss the action plan for World Food India 2024.
World Food India 2024 is scheduled to be held in New Delhi from 19th-22nd September 2024.
The focus was on engaging industry for participation in the upcoming event and exploring collaboration opportunities.
Companies expressed interest in showcasing products and technologies at the event and collaborating with the Ministry.
The Secretary urged stakeholders to work together for the success of the event and emphasized the importance of partnerships.
Invest India was directed to coordinate participation details with the companies.

Ministry of Culture: International Mother Language Day Exhibition

The International Mother Language Day Exhibition at IGNCA celebrates linguistic diversity in India.
The exhibition showcases the importance of mother languages in the development of society.
It features quotes in 22 scheduled languages of India and interactive displays for visitors.
The exhibition aims to raise awareness about preserving endangered languages.
UNESCO celebrates International Mother Language Day on 21st February to promote linguistic and cultural diversity.
The exhibition was inaugurated by officials from Ministry of Culture, IGNCA, and UNESCO.
IGNCA's Academic Unit works to document, preserve, and promote Indian arts and cultural heritage.
The Academic Unit offers a variety of diploma and certificate courses in cultural studies.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Summary

Prof. S P Singh Baghel inaugurated the National Public Health India Conference.
A healthy population is essential for productivity and resilience.
The conference aims to advance public health discourse and align policies with the Prime Minister’s vision.
NCDC was lauded for its efforts in containing Covid-19.
The conference will facilitate the exchange of experiences and best practices in public health.
India's health challenges present opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
The event highlights initiatives on NCDs, Tuberculosis, and infrastructure strengthening, emphasizing collaboration for one health.
It explores the application of advanced tools and technologies like AI and Machine Learning in public health surveillance.
The conference features seven scientific sessions covering various public health aspects.
Experts will discuss barriers and opportunities in the medical curriculum's application to public health.

Ministry of Panchayati Raj: National Workshop Summary

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj concluded a successful two-day National Workshop on Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan in Bhopal.
The workshop aimed at advancing spatial planning initiatives at the grassroots level.
Active participation was seen from Gram Panchayats, Planning Institutes, and government officials from various States.
Government officials emphasized collaboration, commitment, and convergence of resources for rural transformation.
The workshop discussed master planning, funding strategies, and mobilization efforts for sustainable rural development.
Participants delved deeper into discussions, analyzed strategies for Own Source Revenue generation, and emphasized the importance of plan implementation.
A clear roadmap and actionable strategies were outlined for the effective implementation of spatial planning in Gram Panchayats.
States and Union Territories committed to advancing the Ministry's vision and implementing spatial planning initiatives at the ground level.
The workshop provided significant learning opportunities for Gram Panchayats and State-level institutes, contributing to the long-term development needs of rural India.

Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas

India's success is crucial for the success of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
India has made significant progress in lifting over 250 million people out of multidimensional poverty in the last decade.
India's approach to sustainable development shines amidst global challenges.
India has excelled in areas like access to clean water and sanitation despite financing gaps.
Government initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission and AMRUT have transformed the water and sanitation landscape in India.
Efforts towards women empowerment include shifting from women-centered to women-led schemes and introducing the Women’s Reservation Bill.
India is progressing towards sustainability targets like ethanol blending, net zero target of 2070, and enabling ecosystem for emerging technologies.
Role of private sector, businesses, and industries is crucial in achieving SDGs by integrating sustainability in operations.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives contribute to advancing the SDG agenda but need to be supplemented with sustainability in business operations.
India's commitments to international agreements and partnerships, like the Paris Agreement and Panchamrit Plan, guide its path towards sustainable development.

Ministry of Power Hosts GO15 Meetings in New Delhi

Ministry of Power's Grid Controller of India hosted Governing Board and Steering Board meetings of power grid operators' association GO15 in New Delhi.
GO15 is an association of Very Large Power Grid Operators serving more than half of the world's electricity demand.
26 industry leaders from ten global organisations attended the meetings, including leaders from Russia, USA, Japan, South Korea, and South Africa.
Special celebrations were held to mark GO15's 20th Year Anniversary.
Discussions included topics like resource adequacy, risk & reliability in power systems, and new technologies for a sustainable energy future.
GO15 aims to promote international collaboration for a sustainable energy transition.

Ministry of Power Summary

Prime Minister to dedicate Stage-I of NTPC's 1,600 MW Lara Super Thermal Power Station and lay foundation stone of Stage-II in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh.
Stage-I involves an investment of approximately Rs. 15,800 crores, while Stage-II will cost around Rs. 15,530 crores.
Coal supply for the project will come from NTPC's Talaipalli Coal block through MGR system.
The power station/project is equipped with Super Critical technology for Stage-I and Ultra Super Critical technology for Stage-II for efficient operations.
50% of power from both stages is allocated to Chhattisgarh, benefiting other states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, Daman & Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
The project is generating employment opportunities and focusing on Community Development initiatives in education, drinking water, sanitation, health, and women's empowerment.

Ministry of Power: First Solar Project of NTPC Renewable Energy Limited Operations

The first solar project of NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. at Chhattargarh in Rajasthan has begun commercial operations with 70 MW capacity.
NTPC Group now has an installed capacity of 73,958 MW with the addition of this solar project.
NTPC-REL has 17 projects under execution, totaling a capacity exceeding 6,000 MW.
The total renewable energy operational capacity of NTPC Group now stands at 3,448 MW.
The full capacity of the Chhattargarh Solar project is 150 MW and is expected to be commissioned by March 2024.
The project was won under SECI-Tranche:III and benefits the state of Rajasthan.
The project is designed to generate 370 million units of energy per year, sufficient for 60,000 households, while also saving 3 lakh tons of CO2 emissions annually and conserving 1,000 MMTPA of water.
The project aims to provide adequate energy for over 5,000 households in a year.

Ministry of Power: SJVN Commissions 50 MW Gujrai Solar Power Station in Uttar Pradesh

Ministry of Power - SJVN commissions 50 MW Gujrai Solar Power Station in Uttar Pradesh.
SJVN Limited has successfully started commercial operation of the 50 MW Gujrai Solar Power Station in Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh.
The project cost is Rs. 281 crores, expected to generate an annual revenue of approximately Rs. 32 crores.
It is estimated to generate 107 million units in the first year and 2,477 million units over 25 years.
Project executed by SJVN Green Energy Limited and aimed at increasing non-fossil-fuel-based energy generation.
The project was secured through Tariff-based Competitive Bidding Process, with a Power Purchase Agreement with UPPCL for 25 years.
SJVN aims to achieve an installed capacity of 25 GW by 2030 and 50 GW by 2040.

Ministry of Textiles: Bharat Tex 2024

BHARAT TEX 2024 is set to be India’s largest Global Textiles Mega Event.
The event will have 22 lakh sq ft of exhibition area, participation from 100 countries, over 3000 trade buyers, and 100 international speakers.
46 MoUs, including international partnerships, will be signed during the event.
A Textiles Grand Innovation Challenge will be launched to identify futuristic circular solutions.
The event will focus on sustainability and resilient supply chains, showcasing India's capabilities in the textile industry.
The exhibition will cover the entire textile value chain and feature various sectors like apparel, home furnishings, technical textiles, and more.
Global textile companies such as Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, and others will be participating in the event.
Collaboration among 11 Textile Export Promotion Councils and other major bodies will be a key feature of the event.

Ministry of Tribal Affairs: Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara at Medaram

Union Tribal Affairs Minister Shri Arjun Munda visited the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara at Medaram in Telangana, the country’s largest Tribal festival.
The Biennial Medaram Jatara is the second-largest fair in India after the Kumbh Mela and symbolizes 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat'.
The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs sanctioned Rs. 2.30 Crores for the Medaram Jatara 2024 to promote tribal culture and heritage.
The Jatara is celebrated by the Koya tribe for four days and this year's celebration is from 21st-24th February 2024.
The Ministry's support for the festival aims to create awareness, peaceful relationships, and preserve tribal traditions, culture, and heritage.

PM Addresses 647th Birth Anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas

PM addressed the occasion of 647th Birth Anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas in Varanasi.
Unveiled a new statue of Sant Ravidas and inaugurated various development works in the area.
Laid foundation stones for the Sant Ravidas Museum and beautification of the park.
Highlighted the importance of Sant Ravidas in bridging social divides and promoting freedom in society.
Emphasized on following the positive teachings of Sant Ravidas to avoid the negative mentality of casteism.
Praised the contributions of other social reformers like Gadge Baba towards upliftment of the deprived and poor.
Underlined the government's commitment to forwarding the teachings and ideals of Sant Ravidas under the mantra of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'.
Mentioned various welfare schemes benefiting dalits, deprived, and poor communities like free ration, Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, etc.
Stressed on the need to prioritize deprived communities for achieving equality and strengthening the unity of the country.
Cautioned against negative forces promoting caste divisions and dynasty politics.

President's Greetings on Guru Ravidasji's Birth Anniversary

President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, greeted fellow citizens on Guru Ravidasji's birth anniversary.
Guru Ravidasji was known for his spiritual wisdom and fighting against caste-based discrimination.
He dedicated his life to serving humanity and promoting peace, tolerance, and brotherhood.
The President encouraged citizens to adopt Guru Ravidasji's teachings and contribute to the nation's development.

Prime Minister's Address in Varanasi: Key Projects and Initiatives

PM addressed the foundation stone laying and inauguration of projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Projects worth over 13,000 crores were inaugurated for development in Kashi and Eastern India.
Projects include rail, road, airports, animal husbandry, industry, sports, skill development, health, tourism, LPG gas, and more.
Inaugurated projects related to Sant Ravidas ji's birthplace and a modern shooting range for young athletes.
Highlighted initiatives like Banas Dairy plant, focusing on increasing income opportunities for livestock keepers.
Emphasized on 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' by promoting local products and creating employment opportunities.
Discussed plans for modern transportation, infrastructure development, and educational institutions in the future.
Spoke about the development trajectory of Bharat under his leadership and plans for the coming years.
Criticized past governments for hindering UP's development and commended the youth's efforts in scripting a new future.
Expressed confidence that NDA will secure over 400 seats and propel Bharat further towards growth and prosperity.

Prime Minister's Inspection of Infrastructure Project in Varanasi

PM Narendra Modi inspected the Shivpur-Phulwaria-Lahartara Marg in Varanasi.
The road was inaugurated recently and benefits around 5 lakh residents for easier travel to the airport, Lucknow, Azamgarh, and Ghazipur.
The project cost Rs 360 crore and helps reduce traffic congestion, saving travel time for locals.
Inter-ministerial coordination was seen involving Railways and Defence for enhancing citizen convenience.
The PM shared about the inspection on his social media account.

Prime Minister's Office Summary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the prize distribution ceremony of Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita at BHU, Varanasi.
He emphasized the significance of youth power in shaping a developed India.
PM Modi highlighted the role of Kashi as a symbol of India's eternal consciousness and heritage.
He lauded the progress and development of Kashi in the last 10 years and acknowledged the blessing of Lord Mahadev in the city's transformation.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of Sanskrit in India's history and reiterated its role as a principal expression of Indian identity.
He underlined the connection between Sanskrit, Kashi, and the country's unity in diversity.
PM Modi envisioned Kashi as a model of heritage and development, showcasing modernity with traditional and spiritual values.
He expressed confidence in Kashi becoming an inspiration for the new India and nurturing youth as bearers of Indian knowledge and culture.
PM Modi praised Kashi's initiatives in promoting education, preservation of ancient knowledge, and cultural exchange, including scholarships for Sanskrit students.
He mentioned ongoing projects in Kashi like Vishwanath Dham, emphasizing their role in steering India towards a brighter future.

Prime Minister's Office Summary

Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth more than Rs 13,000 crore in Varanasi.
Inaugurated Banas Kashi Sankul milk processing unit, LPG Bottling Plant, road projects, urban development projects, and tourism projects.
Laid foundation stone for National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and new Medical College at BHU.
Emphasized the importance of agriculture, animal husbandry, and self-reliance of women.
Highlighted the government's focus on making India self-sufficient and supporting local industries.
Discussed the boost in employment opportunities, income for farmers, and advancements in sports infrastructure.
Stressed on the need for development in Eastern India and enhancing connectivity through road projects.
Addressed the progress made in Varanasi over the last 10 years and outlined future plans for the region.

Significant Growth in Services Procurement through GeM

Procurement of services through GeM has increased significantly from about ₹8,500 crore in FY21 to nearly ₹1,82,000 crore in FY24.
This marks a 176% increase over the previous fiscal year.
Services procurement on GeM has exceeded the total value of products procurement, indicating faster acceptability.
Services procurement contributed to approximately 80% of the total order value on GeM in February 2024.
The share of procurement of services in overall procurement has crossed the 50% mark in the current financial year.
The diversification of service offerings on GeM has led to exponential growth and boosted the Gross Merchandise Value.
Various government bodies have availed unique services like Local Chemist Empanelment, resulting in cost savings and improved service delivery.
GeM's robust procurement infrastructure is key in driving India's economic growth and supporting strategic initiatives like Swachh Bharat and social welfare programs.

Summary of 10th Pension Adalat by Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions organized the 10th Pension Adalat on 22.2.2024.
85 out of 105 pending pensioner grievances were resolved on the spot during the adalat.
Focus of the adalat was on resolving long outstanding Family Pension Cases.
Ministries and Departments like Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Defence Finance, CBDT, etc., participated in the Pension Adalat.
Important cases successfully resolved during the adalat included issues like delayed family pension, revised PPO, pension arrears, and medical claim reimbursements for the families of deceased pensioners.

Summary of Meeting between Indian and Netherlands Defence Ministers

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Netherlands Defence Minister Ms Kajsa Ollongren discussed expanding bilateral defence cooperation in maritime and industrial domains.
Both countries aim to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region through collaboration.
Shri Rajnath Singh suggested encouraging Dutch Original Equipment Manufacturers to integrate Indian vendors into their supply chains.
There is potential for collaboration in defense industries, high-tech sectors like semi-conductors, and clean energy due to Indian and Dutch complementarities in skills and technology.
The Netherlands Defence Minister is attending the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.

Summary of Ministry of Coal Announcement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to virtually inaugurate three First Mile Connectivity Projects of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) in Chhattisgarh to enhance coal evacuation.
Projects, valued at over Rs 600 crore, focus on faster, eco-friendly, and efficient mechanized coal handling.
Dipka OCP, Chhal OCP, and Baroud OCP Coal Handling Plants are the key projects, with capacities to handle coal and features like conveyor belts, overground bunkers, and rapid loading systems.
The projects aim to reduce carbon emissions, streamline operations, and contribute to operational efficiency.
Aligned with PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, these projects promote multi-modal connectivity and socio-economic development in the region.
Emphasize environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on road-based coal transportation, ultimately lowering traffic congestion, road accidents, and environmental impact.

Summary of Ministry of Commerce & Industry Announcement

India follows a careful and calibrated approach in trade negotiations to ensure fair and balanced outcomes.
India will uphold the guiding principles of the WTO at the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference 13.
WTO is crucial for maintaining a fair and robust multilateral trading system.
India will address the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism issue at the WTO and also bilaterally with the EU.
India aims to be competitive, engage with global value chains, and become self-reliant.
Government initiatives like Make in India, Startup India, and infrastructure investments are transforming India into a fast-developing economy.
Efforts are being made to ensure public welfare through initiatives in food security, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Summary of Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Initiatives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Green Waterway Initiatives in Varanasi.
Two hybrid electric catamaran vessels, MV Guh and MV Nishadraj, were dedicated to the nation.
The vessels are powered by fast-charging batteries to reduce carbon emissions by 400 MT annually.
PM Modi inaugurated four community jetties in Varanasi and laid the foundation stone for 13 more in Uttar Pradesh.
A Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanism System was also inaugurated, reducing assembly time from 6 hours to 30 minutes.
The initiatives aim to promote clean energy, responsible tourism, and connectivity across waterways.
The government aims to boost the share of Inland Water Transport to 5% by 2030 and operationalize 50 waterways by 2047.
Initiatives under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 include enhancing coastal shipping, reducing port dues, and enhancing multimodal transportation.

Summary of Ministry of Road Transport & Highways Announcement

Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 6 National Highway projects worth Rs. 3,946 crore in Ahmedpur, Maharashtra.
He also inaugurated 3 National Highway projects worth Rs. 122.9 crore in Dharashiv, Maharashtra.
The projects aim to enhance road infrastructure for smooth and safe travel in the regions.
Projects include 4-laning of Ausa-Chakur section on NH 361 and Chakur-Loha section, improving connectivity between Marathwada and Vidarbha regions.
Road improvements will facilitate easy access to markets for agricultural produce from Latur, known for soybean production.
Strengthening work on other highway sections like Ashta mode to Ashta and Tivatgyal to Malkapur on NH 63 will further enhance traffic flow.
Projects will save time and fuel, reduce pollution, and make popular tourist destinations like Mahur Shaktipeeth and Nanded Gurdwara easily accessible.
Additionally, the ground-breaking ceremony for 3 National Highway projects in Dharashiv district was conducted to improve connectivity and reduce traffic problems.
The Dharashiv Bypass project will enhance transportation of agricultural products, save time and fuel, and decrease accidents.

Summary of MoSPI's Employment Outlook Report

The Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation has released the Employment Outlook of the country from September 2017 to December 2023.
The report is based on administrative records available with selected government agencies to assess progress in certain dimensions.

Summary of PM's Address at Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita Prize Distribution Ceremony

PM addressed a prize distribution ceremony at BHU, Varanasi for Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita.
Expressed pride in the youth strengthening Kashi's identity and leading the nation to new heights.
Congratulated winners and participants of various competitions, highlighting the importance of participation.
Thanked various organizations for supporting the event and promoting development in Kashi.
Emphasized the role of Kashi in preserving knowledge, culture, spirituality, and promoting unity in diversity.
Discussed the significance of Sanskrit as an expression of Bharat’s heritage and unity.
Announced plans for initiatives like photo voting, sketch competitions, and guide competitions to enhance tourism and skill development in Kashi.
Emphasized the need for talent to flourish and highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation for development.
Encouraged participants to engage through the NaMo app for sharing photos and promoting unity and technology.

Transformation in Healthcare Infrastructure by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri J P Nadda inaugurated new healthcare facilities and laid the foundation stone for a night shelter at AIIMS Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh.
The Union Government is focused on transforming the health sector with an emphasis on preventive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative healthcare.
Despite challenges posed by Covid-19, the Indian healthcare system has proven to be more prepared than ever.
AIIMS Bilaspur was completed in just 3 years, showcasing the government's commitment to extending quality health infrastructure to remote areas.
New healthcare facilities at AIIMS Bilaspur include a Radiation Oncology unit, a 128 Slice CT Scanner, and a Liquid Medical Oxygen plant.
The government's efforts have led to an increase in medical colleges, MBBS and PG seats, nursing colleges, and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana ensures healthcare coverage for all eligible individuals in Himachal Pradesh.
Various achievements in the health sector include an increase in TB notifications, success in treating TB cases, and promoting holistic healthcare through initiatives like AYUSH blocks.
AIIMS Bilaspur's new facilities aim to enhance healthcare infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states, signifying a significant advancement in patient care.

Workshop on Effective Science Communication Strategies by CSIR-NIScPR

CSIR-NIScPR hosted a workshop on effective science communication strategies in New Delhi.
The workshop aimed to empower the Science Media Communication Cell (SMCC) with insights from experts to communicate science and technology information to the public.
The workshop covered topics like using radio, short videos, reels, and traditional folk media for science communication.
Experts highlighted the importance of engaging, clear, and accessible communication to bridge the gap between scientific research and the public.
The workshop equipped SMCC with diverse communication channels and techniques to enhance public engagement with science.
CSIR-NIScPR focuses on advancing science communication, evidence-based S&T policy research, and promoting scientific awareness among the public.