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Current Affairs on 24 February, 2024

23rd Inter CPSU Cricket Tournament for Power Sector PSUs

NHPC hosted the 23rd Inter CPSU Cricket Tournament for Power Sector PSUs under the Power Sports Control Board.
The tournament took place from 19th to 24th February 2024 in Gurugram.
NTPC emerged as the champions by defeating POWERGRID in the final.
Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) secured the Second Runner-up position.
Director (Personnel) of NHPC awarded trophies and medals to the winners and runners-up.
14 teams from various Power Sector PSUs participated in the tournament.
Shri Manish Sharma from CEA and Shri Sanjeev Parmar from BBMB were declared as the Best Batsman and Best Bowler of the tournament respectively.

Ayush Projects Inauguration by Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate two Ayush projects in Pune and Jhajjar on 25th February 2024.
The National Institute of Naturopathy 'NISARG GRAM' in Pune, Maharashtra, costs INR 213.55 Cr.
The 'Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy' in Jhajjar, Haryana, costs INR 63.88 Cr.
These institutes aim to promote holistic healthcare through traditional systems like Naturopathy and Yoga.
They will offer services like hydrotherapy, massage, clinical nutrition, and yoga therapy to address healthcare challenges, including Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
The projects will enhance healthcare infrastructure, education, and research in the field of Ayush.

Condolences by Prime Minister for Accident Victims in Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in an accident in Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh.
He extended condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the tragedy.
The accident involved a tractor trolley falling into a pond in Kasganj.
The Prime Minister wished for the speedy recovery of the injured individuals.
He mentioned that the local administration, under the supervision of the state government, is providing all possible assistance to the affected individuals.

Emergence of Kishtwar District as a Major Power Hub in J&K

North India experiencing a power boom under PM Modi's leadership, with Kishtwar district in J&K emerging as a major power hub.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh visited the 120 MW Seva II hydropower project near Bani in J&K.
Projects like Pakal Dul (1000 MW), Kiru Hydroelectric project (624 MW), and Ratle project (850 MW) are in progress.
Existing projects like Dulhasti power station and Dulhasti II Hydroelectric project will add to the power supply in J&K.
Projects aim to meet the power demand in J&K and neighboring North Indian states, benefitting the local population and boosting the area's economy.

Empowering Neglected Regions by PM Modi: Key Points

Minister Jitendra Singh praised PM Modi for raising neglected regions to the same level as developed areas.
He addressed a public meeting in Machhedi, Bani in Jammu, highlighting the neglect of remote areas by previous governments.
PM Modi's government has brought development to areas like Machhedi and Bani, providing roads and infrastructure.
Dr. Jitendra Singh allocated funds for projects in Machhedi and emphasized the government's commitment to remote areas.
Reforms under DoPT, like abolishing interviews in public exams, have provided opportunities for youth from remote and underprivileged backgrounds.
The government's focus on infrastructure development is aimed at improving connectivity, creating jobs, and boosting tourism potential in regions like Bani.

Exploring Palynology in Kaziranga National Park for Climate and Biodiversity Insights

Research on pollen from Kaziranga National Park can help interpret climate and vegetation changes.
New study by scientists from Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences developed a modern analogue dataset for pollen and non-pollen palynomorphs.
The study evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the biotic proxy and its reliability in identifying ecological environments.
The research combines pollen and NPP to provide more detailed information for palaeo-environmental reconstructions.
This study can aid public and wildlife management agencies in conserving flora and fauna in National Parks, aligning with the National Biodiversity Mission.

Financial Incentive for Service Athletes in 2023 Asian Games & Asian Para Games

Raksha Mantri approved financial incentives for Service athletes who won medals in the 2023 Asian Games and Asian Para Games.
Gold medal winners to receive Rs 25 lakh, Silver medal winners Rs 15 lakh, and Bronze medal winners Rs 10 lakh each.
A total of 45 medal winners, including seven Para athletes, were rewarded for their achievements.
The initiative aims to motivate athletes for better performances in upcoming qualifying events for the Paris Olympics Games 2024.
First-time financial incentives for Armed Forces personnel from the Ministry of Defence.

Indian Navy's Mission Deployed Destroyer Provides Critical EOD & Medical Assistance to MV in Distress

Indian Navy's destroyer provided critical Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and medical assistance to MV Islander after it caught fire likely due to an attack on 22 Feb 24.
The Indian Navy's destroyer, deployed in the Gulf of Aden for maritime security operations, swiftly responded to the distress call and reached the vessel on the same afternoon of the incident.
Indian Naval EOD specialists boarded the vessel to eliminate any residual risk, ensuring its safe transit.
Upon the Master's request, the medical team from the Indian Navy also boarded the ship and rendered necessary medical aid to an injured crew member.
This incident highlights the Indian Navy's unwavering dedication towards ensuring the safety and security of merchant shipping and seafarers.

PM Narendra Modi's Connection with Rajkot

PM Narendra Modi expressed his emotional connection to Rajkot.
22 years ago on February 24, 2002, Modi won his first MLA election from Rajkot II constituency.
He mentioned the support and faith of the people of Rajkot in his initial political journey.
Modi highlighted his commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the public.
He shared about dedicating 5 AIIMS to the nation from Rajkot during his visit to Gujarat.

Prime Minister announces ex-gratia for the victims of Kasganj accident

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex-gratia for victims of the Kasganj accident.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF will be given to the next of kin of each deceased.
The injured individuals will receive Rs. 50,000 as compensation.

Prime Minister Pays Tributes to Sant Ravidas

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, paid tributes to Sant Ravidas on his birth anniversary.
He shared a video expressing his thoughts on Guru Ravidas.
Shri Modi emphasized the messages of equality and harmony that are the foundation of Guru Ravidas' teachings.
He extended his best wishes to the people of the country on this occasion.

Prime Minister's Office - Key Initiatives for Cooperative Sector

PM inaugurated 'World's Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector' in 11 PACS of 11 states
Laid foundation stone for additional 500 PACS for construction of godowns
Inaugurated project for computerization in 18,000 PACS nationwide
Cooperatives are vital for economy and rural development
Emphasized on empowering women in agriculture and dairy cooperatives
Modernization of agriculture crucial for 'Viksit Bharat'
'Viksit Bharat' not possible without creating 'Aatmnirbhar Bharat'
Encouraged cooperatives to reduce dependence on imports through local production
Suggested cooperative role in natural farming, energy, and fertilizer production
Highlighted the need for digital payments, direct benefit transfers, and skill development in cooperatives
Emphasized transparency in cooperative organization elections and reducing taxes for their growth

Prime Minister's Office Visit Summary

Prime Minister to visit Gujarat on 24th and 25th February, 2024.
PM to inaugurate and dedicate to the nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs. 52,250 crore in sectors like health, road, rail, energy, petroleum & natural gas, and tourism.
PM to dedicate Sudarshan Setu, India's longest cable-stayed bridge, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka.
PM to dedicate five AIIMS and over 200 Health Care Infrastructure Projects.
PM to lay the foundation stone of the New Mundra-Panipat pipeline project and various other infrastructure projects.

SECI Unveils India's Largest Solar-Battery Project in Chhattisgarh

SECI, under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, commissions India's largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Chhattisgarh.
The project combines a 40 MW / 120 MWh BESS with a 152.325 MW solar PV plant, contributing to state's peak energy demand using green electrons.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the project through video conferencing, showcasing a leap in renewable energy innovation.
The use of bifacial modules, solar panels, and battery storage sets a new standard for large-scale renewable energy projects.
The project repurposes 451 acres of unused land through a strategic land-use permission agreement, reducing environmental impact.
Efficient power evacuation through a 132 kV transmission line ensures power stability and reliability.
The project is estimated to save significant carbon dioxide emissions annually, showcasing its economic viability and support for renewable energy.
Funding from the World Bank and domestic lending agencies highlights collaborative efforts for sustainable financial arrangements.
Overall, the project is set to have a positive impact on the renewable energy landscape and responsible land utilization in India and globally.

Summary of MakhaBucha Ceremony and Thai-India Friendship Talk

The MakhaBucha ceremony was organized at the SanamLuang Pavilion where holy relics from India were enshrined.
People gathered in large numbers to pay their respects to the holy relics.
A special talk on the theme “Thai India Friendship since Buddha till now” was organized.
The ceremony was conducted by esteemed Somdet and other senior monks of Thailand.
MakhaBucha Day is a religious celebration marking Lord Buddha’s teachings to his disciples and is celebrated on the full moon of the third lunar month.
MakhaBucha is the first important religious festival in the Buddhist calendar in countries like Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
People visited the pavilion in large numbers to pay their respects to the holy relics from India during the 26-day exposition in Thailand.
A special talk on Thai India Friendship was organized by Dr. Supachai Veeraphuchong at the SanamLuang pavilion.

Summary of Meeting on One Nation One Election by Ministry of Law and Justice

The High-Level Committee (HLC) on One Nation One Election, chaired by former President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind, met in New Delhi to discuss simultaneous elections in the country.
Key attendees included Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ministry of Law and Justice Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, former opposition leader Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission Shri N. K. Singh, former Secretary General of Lok Sabha Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, former Chief Vigilance Commissioner Shri Sanjay Kothari, and Senior Advocate Shri Harish Salve.
The committee reviewed its various activities in the meeting held at the Jodhpur Officers’ Hostel in New Delhi.

Summary of Ministry of Cooperation Announcement

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several major initiatives in the cooperative sector in New Delhi.
Inauguration of the pilot project for the 'World's Largest Grain Storage Scheme in Cooperative Sector' in 11 states.
Laid foundation stone for additional 500 PACSs across the country for godowns and agri-related infrastructure.
Inaugurated the project for computerization of 18,000 PACSs to bring transparency and modernization.
Ministry of Cooperation has taken more than 54 initiatives since its formation.
Computerization of PACSs to be completed by August 2024 with an outlay of Rs. 2500 crores.
The computerization of PACSs will create business opportunities and integrate various activities into a single software.
PACSs can now engage in activities like dairy, water management, blue revolution, and open various service centers.
World's largest cooperative food grain storage scheme launched to increase storage capacity in the cooperative sector.
Plans to achieve 100% storage capacity by 2027 through the cooperative sector.
Modern and scientific godowns to be established with facilities like drones, tractors, and harvesting machines for farmers' use.

Summary of Ministry of Defence Announcements

The Ministry of Defence aims to achieve an annual defence production of Rs three lakh crore and exports worth Rs 50,000 crore by 2028-29.
Focus on jointness and integration in the military to enhance coordination and readiness to face challenges.
Government prioritizing long-term gains over short-term outcomes to make India a developed nation by 2047.
Emphasis on manufacturing high-end systems like aero-engines and gas turbines in India in the next five years.
Reforms in defence sector include indigenisation lists, earmarking 75% of capital acquisition budget for local companies, and promoting self-reliance.
Efforts to support start-ups and innovative minds in the defence sector for long-term benefits.
Investment in futuristic technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, smart weapons, cyber warfare, and space warfare.
Capital acquisition worth over Rs 4,35,000 crores approved in FY 2023-24, with a significant allocation of Rs 6.21 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence in the Union Budget 2024-25.
Government's aim to make India a major player in technology and infrastructure development for holistic national growth.
Focus on providing equal opportunities for women in every field, including increasing their role in the Armed Forces.

Summary of Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation Report

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation conducted the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) during August 2022 to July 2023.
The survey aimed to generate estimates of household Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) for rural and urban sectors, States and Union Territories, and different socio-economic groups.
The survey involved 2,61,746 households across India, with data collected from both rural and urban areas.
The estimates of MPCE for 2022-23 showed a significant increase compared to the 68th round (2011-12) and 66th round (2009-10) at both current prices and 2011-12 prices.
Imputed values of items received free of cost through social welfare programs were considered in the survey, impacting the MPCE estimates.
Tables provided detailed information on average MPCE at current prices and 2011-12 prices for different survey periods.
Imputed MPCE values for 2022-23 were significantly higher than previous rounds, indicating a notable increase in household consumption expenditure.

Summary of PM's Address and Development Projects in Chhattisgarh

PM inaugurated, dedicated, and laid foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 34,400 crore in Chhattisgarh.
Projects include Roads, Railways, Coal, Power, and Solar Energy sectors.
Dedicated NTPC’s Lara Super Thermal Power Project Stage-I and laid foundation stone for Stage-II.
Emphasized on empowering the poor, farmers, youth, and women for the development of Chhattisgarh.
Government striving to reduce electricity bills to zero through various schemes.
Focus on eliminating corruption to spur development and create employment opportunities.
PM emphasized on Chhattisgarh's potential to reach new heights of development in the next 5 years.
Underscored various projects inaugurated for enhancing solar energy, road connectivity, and rail infrastructure in Chhattisgarh.
Exemplified various initiatives by the government to fulfill the dreams and aspirations of the people.
Mentioned schemes and projects dedicated to the welfare and upliftment of the citizens of Chhattisgarh.

Summary of the Inauguration of Centre of Excellence on Panchakarma by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal

Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated Centre of Excellence on Panchakarma at Govt Ayurvedic College & Hospital in Guwahati.
The Minister highlighted the importance of Ayurveda and its positive impact on overall well-being.
The Centre of Excellence aims to enhance patient care and contribute to the global Ayush wellness movement.
Panchakarma is recognized for its stress-reducing benefits on the body and mind.
The government has been actively promoting Ayush systems and establishing wellness centers to strengthen the sector.
Several dignitaries, including Health & Family Welfare Minister of Assam and MLAs, were present at the inauguration ceremony.

Summary of Vimarsh 2023 5G Hackathon for Law Enforcement Agencies

Vimarsh 2023: 5G Hackathon for Law Enforcement Agencies organized by TCoE (Department of Telecom) and BPR&D (MHA).
22 out of 23 startups and institutes presented Use Case PoCs at the DoT-funded IIT Madras 5G Testbed site.
Demonstrations included Automated drones, AR/VR, Surveillance & Investigation, Evidence collection, Emergency response, Intelligent Traffic Management system, among others.
Evaluated by a Jury from esteemed institutions focusing on innovative solutions for Law Enforcement Agencies.
Solutions featured Drone based surveillance, AI assisted FIR filing, geofencing, AR based training, and AI based predictive policing.
More details available at Vimarsh 5G Hackathon 2023 website.
Event aimed to address critical issues, promote innovation, and explore challenges faced by Law Enforcement Agencies.

Summary: Prime Minister's Address on Cooperative Sector Initiatives

Prime Minister addressed the laying of foundation stone and inauguration of key initiatives in the cooperative sector.
Significance of cooperation in agriculture and farming was highlighted with the establishment of a separate Ministry of Cooperation.
Launch of world's largest storage scheme for farmers and computerization of 18,000 PACS.
Cooperatives play a vital role in rural economy, self-reliance, and prosperity.
Emphasis on Farmer Producer Organizations, expansion in fisheries sector, and involvement of women in cooperatives.
Cooperatives' role in reducing imports, promoting organic farming, and addressing energy needs through solar panels and waste-to-energy initiatives.
Focus on increasing income in villages, modernizing cooperative institutions, and promoting transparency in elections.
Government's efforts to reduce challenges faced by cooperative societies through tax reforms.
Call for cooperative organizations to innovate, share best practices, engage in online training, and focus on skill development.
Encouragement for cooperatives to take a leading role in promoting products globally and achieving self-reliance in key sectors.

Title of the Summary

PM addressed the "Viksit Bharat Viksit Chhattisgarh" program emphasizing development in Chhattisgarh.
Projects worth 35,000 crore rupees inaugurated for coal, solar energy, electricity, and connectivity.
Focus on empowering the poor, farmers, youth, and women for the development of Chhattisgarh.
Initiatives include promoting solar energy, providing free electricity to homes, and assisting farmers with solar pumps.
Government's efforts highlighted in providing benefits to the poor, farmers, and women.
Mention of the BJP's role in rapid development and fulfillment of commitments in Chhattisgarh.
Modi emphasized stopping corruption to facilitate development and welfare schemes.
Importance of Chhattisgarh's development in the progress of the country under Modi's leadership.
Focus on modern initiatives for the youth and students to fulfill their dreams in a developed Chhattisgarh.

Vice President's Address at the 100th Annual Convocation of the University of Delhi

Vice President addressed the 100th Annual Convocation of the University of Delhi.
Encouraged graduating students, recognized the importance of the event.
Highlighted the new features of the degree awarded and Parliament's step towards women's representation.
Emphasized the significance of lifelong learning and nurturing bonds formed during university life.
Outlined the current scenario of India as a nation enabling talent and innovation.
Mentioned advancements in technology, infrastructure, digital growth, Yoga's global recognition, India's global leadership, and youth's potential.
Urged the youth to explore various opportunities beyond traditional paths, be innovators, and contribute towards the nation's progress.
Encouraged dreaming big, seizing opportunities, and keeping national interest at the forefront.
Cautioned against anti-national narratives and urged the youth to safeguard the nation's image and constitutional institutions.
Called upon the youth to be architects of India's future and strive towards Bharat@2047.

Vice President's Secretariat Overview

Vice-President emphasizes India as a land of hope and possibilities, launching Viksit Bharat@2047.
India's soft diplomacy recognized globally as a stabilizing force by the Vice-President.
Cautions against obsession with competitive exams and encourages students to explore avenues beyond traditional job opportunities.
Highlights eradication of corruption and shift towards merit-based opportunities in New India.
Encourages youth to utilize disruptive technologies like Green Hydrogen Mission for national growth.
Warns against individuals spreading anti-national narratives and destabilizing the nation.

Vice President's Visit to Aizawl, Mizoram - Key Points

Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankar, to visit Aizawl, Mizoram on February 26, 2024.
He will be the Chief Guest at the 18th Convocation of Mizoram University during his visit.
Shri Dhankhar will also address the Ninth Mizoram Legislative Assembly in Aizawl.
Additionally, the Vice-President will visit Raj Bhavan, Aizawl, during his one-day tour.

Visit of Governor of Bihar to Ancient City of Ayutthaya in Thailand

Governor of Bihar Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar visited the Ancient City of Ayutthaya in Thailand, named after the birth city of Lord Ram in Ayodhya.
The visit highlighted the strong cultural and historic connection between Indian and Thai civilization.
Ayutthaya, founded in 1350, was the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom, known for its global diplomacy and commerce.
The city was strategically located on an island surrounded by rivers to protect it from attacks and flooding.
Destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767, Ayutthaya remains an extensive archaeological site with relics of its past glory.
Governor Arlekar emphasized the importance of preserving cultural ties and heritage to deepen understanding between India and Thailand.
He noted the significance of Ayodhya's Ram Temple inauguration and stressed the need for promoting awareness of cultural links between the two nations.