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Current Affairs on 28 February, 2024

Customs Commissionerate, Indore (Bhopal Zone) Disposal of Smuggled Cigarettes and Contrabands

Customs Commissionerate, Indore in Bhopal Zone destroyed 40.86 lakh sticks of smuggled foreign origin cigarettes, cigars, and rolling paper valued at Rs. 3.89 crores at Raipur.
The seizure was part of a drive against illegal import of foreign origin cigarettes and other contrabands into India.
The seized goods did not comply with the provisions of the Indian Customs Act, 1962, "The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Rules, 2008," and Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011.
The seized items included cigarettes, cigars, and rolling papers of various foreign brands like Paris, Gudang Garam, Dunhill, smuggled through mis-declaration.
The cigarettes did not have mandatory pictorial health warnings as per the Notifications issued by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare under the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA, 2003).
These smuggled products are cheaper for consumers due to the evasion of customs duties and GST.
The disposal of seized goods was carried out through destruction as per prescribed guidelines with the help of Central CGST officers, Raipur, customs officials, and DRI officials.

Defence Secretary Co-Chairs India-Germany High Defence Committee Meeting

Defence Secretary co-chaired India-Germany High Defence Committee meeting in Berlin.
Both countries focused on collaboration in high technology in defence.
Discussed bilateral security issues and developing defence cooperation.
Emphasized on closer defence partnership and connecting defence industries.
Talks included regional security situation, joint exercises in Indo-Pacific, and defence projects.
Followed the visit of German Federal Minister of Defence to India in 2023.
Defence Secretary also interacted with the German Institute of International and Security Affairs in Berlin.

Development of Renewable Energy Parks in Maharashtra by NTPC Green Energy Limited and MAHAGENCO

NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) has signed a Joint Venture Agreement with MAHAGENCO for developing Renewable Energy Parks in Maharashtra.
The agreement aims to set up GW-scale renewable energy parks and undertake phased projects aligning with green energy objectives.
The Joint Venture Agreement was signed in the presence of officials from NTPC, MAHAGENCO, and NGEL at NTPC headquarters in New Delhi.
NTPC, India’s largest integrated power utility, aims to reach 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032 with NGEL focusing on renewable energy projects and technologies.
MAHAGENCO has an installed capacity of about 13,170 MW across various power plants including thermal, hydro, gas, and solar-based plants.

DRDO Celebrates National Science Day 2024

DRDO celebrated National Science Day 2024 through lectures, orations, and open house activities.
The celebration aimed to commemorate the discovery of the 'Raman Effect' by Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928.
National Science Day is celebrated on 28th February annually to promote scientific temper and innovation.
The event included speeches on topics like 'Cracking an age-old thermodynamic puzzle in micro heat engines' and 'Precision health management using digital twin'.
Three papers were selected for presentation from 39 oration papers received from various DRDO labs.
The Defence Science Forum (DSF) is a platform within DRDO for interdisciplinary interactions and project planning.
DRDO released a song and awarded the writers and composers during the event.
A monograph on innovative practices in product development was released by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.

Empowering Teachers with Experiential Learning in Science Education

A specialized online teacher training program by CSIR-NML and KAMP empowered over 150 teachers from across India in cutting-edge experiential learning techniques in science education.
The theme of the program was 'Fostering Experiential Learning in Science Education, Beyond the Textbook' and included training sessions by subject matter experts.
Prominent scientists from CSIR-NML like Dr. Sandip Ghosh Chowdhury and Dr. K. Gopala Krishna conducted sessions on various dimensions of science education and introduced innovative tools for enhancing the learning experience.
The teachers learned about key focus areas of CSIR-NML, smart teaching methodologies, and engaging learning strategies through examples like primary colors, electromagnetic induction, and contactless electricity transport.
The program aimed to provide insights for fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment for students and highlighted the importance of experiential learning.
KAMP expressed gratitude to speakers and participants, emphasized the significance of experiential learning, and announced upcoming activities like online knowledge sharing sessions and scientific excursions for students.
CSIR-NML focuses on research areas including extractive metallurgy, corrosion studies, advanced materials, and sustainable metals production, while KAMP aims to develop creativity and critical thinking skills in students.

India-USA Senior Officials’ Homeland Security Dialogue in New Delhi

India-U.S. Senior Officials’ Homeland Security Dialogue held in New Delhi led by Home Secretary of India and Acting Deputy Secretary of U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Focus on reviewing cooperation in counter-terrorism, security, combating terrorism, violent extremism, drug trafficking, organised crime, transportation security.
Commitment to strengthening people-to-people ties, safe migration, counter illegal migration, human trafficking, money laundering, cyber-crimes, terror-financing.
Consolidating collaboration between law enforcement agencies through exchange of information, capacity building, technical assistance, and regular meetings.
Memorandum of Cooperation on law enforcement training signed between U.S. Federal Law Enforcement Training Centre and India’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy.
Next round of Senior Officials’ Homeland Security Dialogue to be held in Washington D.C.

Indian Navy and Narcotics Control Bureau Collaborative Anti-Narcotics Operation Summary

The Indian Navy and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) conducted a coordinated operation at sea and apprehended a suspicious vessel carrying almost 3300 Kgs of contraband.
The contraband seized included 3089 Kgs Charas, 158 Kgs Methamphetamine, and 25 Kgs Morphine.
The operation was based on intelligence received from the Indian Navy’s maritime surveillance aircraft and information from the NCB.
An Indian Navy warship intercepted the suspicious dhow enroute to Indian waters and successfully located, tracked, and seized the contraband.
This operation resulted in the largest seizure of narcotics in recent times and highlights collaborative efforts between the Indian Navy and the NCB to disrupt illegal narcotics smuggling routes.
The contraband and crew were handed over to law enforcement agencies after the seizure, and the boat was towed to the nearest Indian port.
This operation showcases the commitment of the Indian Navy in thwarting the use of seas for illegal activities, especially in India’s maritime neighborhood.

Key Developments in Yavatmal, Maharashtra

PM inaugurated and dedicated development projects worth over Rs 4,900 crores in Yavatmal, Maharashtra.
Released 16th installment of about Rs 21,000 crores under PM-KISAN; 2nd and 3rd installments of Rs 3,800 crore under 'Namo Shetkari MahaSanman Nidhi.'
Disbursed Rs 825 crore of revolving fund to 5.5 lakh women SHGs in Maharashtra.
Initiated distribution of 1 crore Ayushman cards across Maharashtra.
Launched Modi Awaas Gharkul Yojana and inaugurated a statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay in Yavatmal city.
Emphasized on strengthening the rural economy and empowering the poor, farmers, women, and youth.
Highlighted completion of multiple road, rail, and irrigation projects.
Stressed on the importance of Chhatrapati Shivaji's ideals and the government's commitment to transforming lives.
Mentioned various schemes and initiatives to uplift different segments of society.
Emphasized on creating a Viksit Bharat through comprehensive development schemes.

Key Highlights from Ministry of Science & Technology Update

India conducted the first human clinical trial of gene therapy for haemophilia A (FVIII deficiency) at Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India focuses on science for progress.
India is ready to match global strides in Quantum Technology.
Empowerment of women in the scientific community under PM Modi's leadership.
India's bio-economy has grown significantly in the last decade.
India ranks third globally in the Startup Ecosystem and is making advancements in Agricultural transformation through science and innovation.
India is excelling in Advanced Technologies like Quantum Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning.
Globally, India is among the top five countries in scientific research publications and has made significant progress in innovation and patent filings.
India's scientific breakthroughs range from Artificial Intelligence to successful moon landings.
National Science Day celebrates the discovery of the 'Raman Effect' and emphasizes Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat.
India has robust vaccine development capacity and is recognized as a global leader in Preventive healthcare.

Key Points from Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas Statement

India is on a high-growth trajectory to achieve its development goals by 2047, according to Minister Hardeep S Puri.
Over 25 crore people have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty since 2014.
India has emerged as a more resilient economy compared to advanced economies post-pandemic.
India is currently the fifth-largest economy globally and is projected to become the third-largest soon.
Various transformative policies have been implemented to directly benefit citizens, marking a shift from policy paralysis before 2014.
Significant achievements have been made in areas such as healthcare, sanitation, housing, and skill development in the past 10 years.
India's demographic dividend provides intellectual capital and entrepreneurial opportunities, contrasting with ageing workforces in developed countries.
India's soft power as a democratic and pluralistic country places it as a significant player on the global stage.
The inauguration of the REVA University Centre of Excellence for Geopolitics and International Studies by Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Bengaluru aims to enhance knowledge and discussions on global geopolitics and international studies.

Launch of LSAM 18 Barge for Indian Navy - Key Points

The Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 18, was launched on 28 Feb 24 as part of the 11 x ACTCM Barge Project for the Indian Navy.
It was built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane.
The contract for building these barges was signed on 05 Mar 21 between MoD and M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd.
These barges will assist in the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles/ammunition for IN ships.
The barges are indigenously designed and built under the relevant Naval Rules and Regulations, with model testing done at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam.
They are part of the Make in India initiative of the Government of India.

Ministry of Coal Launching Coal Logistics Plan & Policy

Ministry of Coal to launch Coal Logistics Plan & Policy on 29th February 2024 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi will unveil the plan aimed at producing 1.5 BT of coal by FY 2030.
Officials from NITI Aayog and various ministries, along with industry representatives, will participate.
The plan focuses on developing a technologically advanced, cost-effective, and sustainable logistics ecosystem.
Key projects include First-mile Connectivity, waterways transportation, rail capacity augmentation, and coastal shipping of coal.
Initiative aligns with the goal of doubling coal production by 2030 and reducing dependence on imported coal.
Event aims to solicit suggestions for inclusive infrastructure development nationwide and optimizing coal evacuation processes.

Ministry of Coal: Joint Venture Agreement for Ammonium Nitrate Plant

CIL and BHEL signed a Joint Venture Agreement for setting up an Ammonium Nitrate Plant through Surface Coal Gasification Technology.
The plant, located in Odisha, is expected to produce 2000 tons of Ammonium Nitrate per day and 6.60 Lakh tons annually.
CIL will supply the required coal, while BHEL will provide pressurized fluidized bed gasification technology.
This partnership is a significant step towards the National Coal Gasification Mission, reducing import dependency and promoting self-reliance.
The ministry of coal views gasification as a high priority area and is providing necessary support for the project.
SCG technology converts coal into valuable Syn gas for various uses, including as alternative natural gas and feedstock for chemicals production.
Projects and Development India Limited has been assigned to prepare a detailed feasibility report for the plant.
Construction activities will commence after the land acquisition process is completed by September 2024.

Ministry of Finance Update Summary

Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, to inaugurate Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) facility at Land Customs Stations in North East for enhancing ease of doing business.
The event will be conducted virtually from New Delhi to facilitate regional trade in the North Eastern Regions.
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) will hand over 101 seized antiquities to different zonal units of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at seven different locations across the country.
The ceremony for handing over the seized antiquities will be conducted in the presence of the Union Finance Minister.

Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, inaugurated the National Symposium on Fodder Development in New Delhi.
The symposium aimed to discuss interventions for the livestock of the country and enhance food security.
The government plans to set up "Fodder banks" in all regions, incorporate more livestock species under schemes, increase fodder production area, and focus on livestock nutrition.
The Department is working towards breed improvement, livestock disease prevention, and fodder production through schemes like the National Livestock Mission and AHIDF.
The symposium brought together stakeholders to address fodder-related challenges and work towards innovation and sustainability in the sector.
The event saw participation from institutes, cooperative bodies, states, UTs, and farmers/entrepreneurs to discuss fodder development.

Ministry of Home Affairs: Declaration of Unlawful Associations

The government has declared Muslim Conference Jammu & Kashmir (Sumji faction) and Muslim Conference Jammu & Kashmir (Bhat faction) as Unlawful Associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
These groups have been engaging in activities against the sovereignty and integrity of India.
The Muslim Conference Jammu & Kashmir (Sumji faction) supports terrorist activities to separate Jammu and Kashmir from India.
The Muslim Conference Jammu & Kashmir (Bhat faction) is involved in promoting secession in Jammu and Kashmir from India.
The decision reflects the government's commitment to uproot terrorism, and those involved in unlawful activities will face dire consequences.

Ministry of Jal Shakti: Agreement with Technical Education Institutions for River Basin Management

Ministry of Jal Shakti signed agreement with 12 technical education institutions for basin management of 6 rivers.
Six large rivers will be improved following the model of the Ganga river.
Academic and research collaboration aimed at enhancing basin management of Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Cauveri, Narmada, and Periyar rivers.
Agreement under the National River Conservation Plan assigns research, monitoring, and technical knowledge tasks to 12 institutions including IITs, NITs, and NEERI.
Main focus on strengthening basin management to make India rich in water resources and a global leader in river basin management.
Efforts of cGanga (Centre for Ganga Basin Management and Studies) and the success of Namami Gange Mission highlighted as models to replicate.
Role of inter-state cooperation and coordination emphasized for effective river management.
Several institutions assigned responsibilities for the basin management of specific rivers like IIT Indore and IIT Gandhinagar for Narmada Basin Management, etc.

Ministry of Power: ELECRAMA 2025 Launch Overview

The Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA) announced the 16th edition of ELECRAMA, the world’s largest electrical show, to be held in Delhi from 22nd to 26th February, 2025 with the theme "Reimagining Energy for Sustainable Future."
ELECRAMA 2025 aims to foster dialogue and collaboration towards achieving a greener, more resilient energy ecosystem with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders exploring innovative solutions for sector growth.
Union Power and New & Renewable Energy Minister R K Singh commended IEEMA on the launch of ELECRAMA 2025, acknowledging the government's efforts to transform the power sector and the alignment of the event with their vision for a sustainable future.
ELECRAMA 2025 is viewed as a pivotal event by key figures in the power sector for showcasing new technologies and solutions, with expectations of business opportunities worth $20 billion, participants from 100+ countries, and dedicated country pavilions.
Industry leaders like Shri Deepak Sharma from Schneider Electric India Pvt. Ltd. and representatives from the Embassies of Germany and France have committed to participating in ELECRAMA 2025 to contribute to the dialogue and advancements in the energy sector.

Ministry of Women and Child Development - Gender Equity and Equality Initiative

The Ministry of Women and Child Development launched the logo and website for the Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality.
The logo draws inspiration from Lord Ganesha and symbolizes collective wisdom and strength for gender equity and equality.
The Alliance aims to promote gender equality in areas such as health, education, and enterprise, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals.
Supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, anchored by CII Centre for Women Leadership, and partnered with World Economic Forum and Invest India.
The logo's design represents equality and equity with tricolors symbolizing strength, truth, and growth, inspired by Lord Ganesha's traits.
Mr. Bill Gates highlighted the importance of prioritizing women-led development for equitable development.
Mr. Chandrajit Banerjee emphasized industry's commitment to supporting women-led development globally.

Monthly Webinar Series by Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

'Anubhav Awardees Speak' is a monthly webinar series by the Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare to motivate employees by showcasing the commitment and dedication of Anubhav Awardees.
Shri Shashi Kumar Valiathan, CSS (retd), was featured in the February 2024 webinar as an Anubav Awards Jury Certificate winner.
Since its inception, 27 speakers have shared their experiences in 16 editions of 'Anubhav Awardees Speak' webinar series.
The Anubhav Awards Scheme aims to incentivize retiring employees to document their career experiences on the 'Anubhav Portal' for the administrative history of India.
54 Anubhav Awards and 09 Jury Certificates have been conferred since 2015.
The monthly webinar series serves to encourage Central Government employees to excel in their roles with commitment and dedication.
The interactions with Anubhav Awardees aim to motivate employees, with 27 speakers from diverse backgrounds addressing participants from over 500 locations across the country.
Shri Shashi Kumar Valiathan, in the 16th webinar, highlighted the importance of public service in nation-building, calling upon participants to consider every assignment as valuable.
Officials from 526 locations attended the recent webinar where Shri Shashi Kumar Valiathan shared his career experiences and emphasized the privilege and trust associated with government service.

MoU Signed at Bharat Tex 2024 for Promoting Upcycled Textile Products

A MoU was signed at Bharat Tex 2024 between Textiles Committee, Government e-Marketplace, and SCOPE to promote upcycled products made from textiles waste and scrap.
Upcycling involves repurposing textile waste to create new products, reducing energy, chemical, and water consumption.
GeM will provide direct market linkages for upcycled products through #Vocalforlocal GeM Outlet Stores.
GeM will engage stakeholders in the upcycling sector through advocacy, awareness, and capacity building initiatives.
The initiative aims to support Sustainable Development Goals like Sustainable Cities and Communities and Responsible Consumption and Production.

Moving Towards WTO Dispute Settlement Reforms

India called for the restoration of the WTO Appellate Body as a top priority at the ongoing WTO Ministerial Conference-13 in Abu Dhabi.
India emphasized the need for a credible and reliable WTO Dispute Settlement system for an equitable and predictable multilateral trading system.
India proposed a three-point action plan to formalize and multilateralize the informal dispute settlement reform discussions among WTO Members.
The transition to formal bodies should be guided by the Dispute Settlement Body Chair to meet the mandates of the previous Ministerial Declaration.
The process should be member-driven, transparent, inclusive, and consider the capacity challenges of developing countries and least-developed countries.
Members should have the opportunity to bring in new proposals, with resulting texts being consensus-based and representative, allowing hybrid participation.
Lastly, India stressed the importance of prioritizing the restoration of the Appellate Body for an effective dispute settlement mechanism.

President's Address at Central University of Jharkhand Convocation

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, attended and addressed the third convocation of the Central University of Jharkhand in Ranchi.
She highlighted the importance of the youth as India's valuable resource and emphasized their role in the nation's development.
The President stressed on the youth's responsibility to contribute towards building a prosperous and harmonious society.
She commended the tribal lifestyle in Jharkhand for its potential to offer solutions to challenges like global warming.
The President appreciated the eco-friendly practices and cultural heritage preservation efforts of the Central University of Jharkhand.

Prime Minister Condoles Loss of Lives in Jamtara, Jharkhand Mishap

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, expressed condolences for the loss of lives in a mishap in Jamtara, Jharkhand.
PM Modi shared his thoughts for all those who lost their loved ones and wished for the quick recovery of the injured individuals.
The official statement from the Prime Minister's Office conveyed PM Modi's feelings towards the tragic incident.
PM Modi's message was shared on Twitter by the PMO India handle.
The PMO Twitter handle posted the message on February 28, 2024.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurates NCL's First Mile Connectivity Projects

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate NCL's First Mile Connectivity Projects worth Rs.1393.69 Crore virtually.
The projects aim to enhance overall coal production and profitability by reducing transportation time and costs.
The projects include Jayant OCP CHP-SILO and Dudhichua OCP CHP-SILO with capacities of 15 MTPA and 10 MTPA respectively.
These projects will bring efficiency and sustainability to coal evacuation processes, optimizing logistics and reducing carbon emissions.
The Ministry of Coal is committed to infrastructure development and sustainable initiatives for a greener future and enhancing India's energy security.

Prime Minister's Office Development Projects Summary

PM laid foundation stone and dedicated development projects worth over Rs 17,300 crores in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
Laid foundation stone for Outer Harbor Container Terminal, launched India's first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel, and dedicated tourist facilities in 75 lighthouses.
Emphasized on the 'whole of government' approach to development.
Highlighted rail and road projects to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and boost trade and tourism in Tamil Nadu.
Underlined the importance of maritime sector development for the progress of states like Tamil Nadu.
Mentioned the significant growth in port activities, logistics performance, and waterways development in India.
Expressed commitment to serve the state and promised to further development if given the opportunity for the third time.

Prime Minister's Office: National Science Day Greetings

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, conveyed greetings on National Science Day.
He emphasized the government's commitment to encouraging research and innovation among the youth.
Shri Modi stressed the importance of scientific temperament, innovation, and technology for realizing the dream of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
He shared a video expressing his thoughts on these key aspects.

Review Meeting by National Commission for Backward Classes in Karnataka

Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes, conducted a review meeting with officers of the Government of Karnataka.
The meeting focused on welfare measures for securing representation of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) for educational admissions and public service appointments, excluding the creamy layer.
Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) agreed to distribute Rs. 4 lakh per acre as compensation to eligible individuals in District Chandrapur within fifteen days.
Minimum wages as per High Power Committee recommendations should be paid from August 2023 onwards by KPCL.
Chairperson expressed displeasure as the Chief Secretary of Karnataka did not attend the meeting despite numerous opportunities for his appearance.
Payment cheques were to be issued from 26.02.2024, and regular payments for appointments were to follow every ten days.

Review Meeting by National Commission for Backward Classes in Punjab

Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes, conducted a review meeting in Punjab to discuss welfare measures for OBC representation in employment and education.
The Commission recommended increasing OBC quota in education and employment, in compliance with the Supreme Court's directives on reservation limits.
Recommendation was made to enhance OBC representation to at least 13% in services and admissions in Punjab.
Punjab government is in the process of increasing OBC quota from 12% to 25% in public employment based on the Commission's recommendation.
The Commission suggested allotting 15% quota to OBCs for admissions in various educational institutions in Punjab.

Review Meeting on OBC Welfare Measures in UT Chandigarh Administration

Review meeting held by Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, Chairperson of National Commission for Backward Classes with Home Secretary of Chandigarh Administration.
Discussion on welfare measures for OBC representation in employment and admissions in various institutes under Chandigarh Administration.
Updates provided on actions taken from past meetings and guidelines issued for SCs/OBCs reservation in services and education.
Committee formed for drafting policy for OBCs in admissions, with final draft sent for administrative approval.
Proposal for 27% reservation for OBCs in employment and admissions in various departments, boards, institutes taken up with Ministry of Home Affairs.

Review of Cage Farming at Getalsud Dam in Ranchi

Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi visited Getalsud Dam in Ranchi, Jharkhand to review cage farming progress.
Interacted with cage farmers at the Dam site to understand their issues and challenges.
Getalsud Reservoir in Ranchi is a hub for cage culture of Pangasius and Tilapia fish species.
Fish farmers from sixteen surrounding villages are part of fisheries cooperative societies and use GI pipes or modular cages.
Average production per cage is 3-4 tons, providing an overall profit of over Rs.4 lakhs per annum.
Initiative started in 2012-13 with 365 cages installed under various schemes like Blue Revolution, RKVY, and PMMSY.
Market linkage is established, with the locally produced fish being sold in nearby markets, contributing to the economic well-being of the region.
India's vast reservoir resources of 32 lakh hectares are underutilized for fish production, highlighting immense potential.
Under the Blue Revolution scheme, a total of 14,022 cages were approved at a cost of Rs. 420 crores.
Under PMMSY, 44,908 cages have been approved with a total project cost of Rs. 1292.53 crores.

Summary of Ministry of Coal Review

Total coal production from captive and commercial coal mines increased by 26% during the period from 1st April 2023 to 26th February 2024.
Out of 58 coal mines reviewed, 54 are currently producing, with 4 expected to commence production soon.
Dispatch also saw a growth of 30% during the same period.
Average daily coal production in February 2024 reached 5.14 LT for the first time.
Total production from captive and commercial mines has exceeded last year's total production.
Captive coal mine allottees were urged to enhance production and report any constraints for timely resolution.
Allottees were advised to operationalize advanced coal blocks to support sector growth.

Summary of Ministry of Culture Announcement

Six eminent personalities in performing arts elected as Akademi Fellows (Akademi Ratna).
92 artists selected for Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for the Years 2022 & 2023.
80 young artists to be given Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for the years 2022 & 2023.
Fellows and Awardees represent different states and union territories, covering various performing arts forms.
Akademi Fellowships carry a purse money of Rs. 3,00,000, while Akademi Awards carry Rs. 1,00,000.
These awards symbolize excellence, achievement, and sustained individual contributions in the field of performing arts.
Awards will be conferred by the President of India in a special investiture ceremony.

Summary of Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs Speech by Minister Hardeep S Puri

India is on a high-growth trajectory to achieve development goals by 2047.
Significant transformation in policies benefiting citizens directly has been observed.
Over 25 crore people have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty since 2014.
India's resilient response to the pandemic has positioned it as the fifth-largest economy, aiming to become the third-largest.
Various schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat, AMRUT, and PM Awas Yojana have made notable impacts on health, sanitation, and housing sectors.
Initiatives like PM MUDRA Yojana, PM SVANidhi Yojana, and PM Ujjwala scheme have also contributed to India's progress.
India's demographic dividend brings intellectual capital and entrepreneurial genius.
India's soft power as a democratic and pluralistic nation with global consensus building efforts is recognized.
Inauguration of the REVA University Centre of Excellence for Geopolitics and International Studies in Bengaluru by Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to enhance students' understanding of global geopolitical dynamics.
The center aims to foster discussions among scholars, professionals, decision-makers, and emerging leaders on geopolitics and international studies.

Summary of Ministry of Mines Announcement

Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi will launch the Second Tranche of Auction of Critical and Strategic Mineral Blocks on 29th February 2024.
The auction aims to address the need for critical minerals essential for economic development, national security, and future technologies.
India's commitment to achieve 50% power from non-fossil sources by 2030 will drive the demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, etc.
Recent amendments in the MMDR Act have identified 24 minerals as Critical and Strategic minerals to be auctioned by the Central Government.
The Ministry will also hand over financial grants to start-ups in the mining and mineral sector, promoting research and innovation.
An Annual Capacity Building Plan for Geological Survey of India to enhance competencies will be released during the event.

Summary of Ministry of Women and Child Development Event

Ministry of Women and Child Development to organize "Poshan Utsav - Celebrating Nutrition" event in New Delhi.
Event to be graced by Union Minister Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani and Mr. Bill Gates, Co-Chair of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
'Poshan Utsav Book' to be released during the event.
Cartoon Coalition will announce support for the cause of POSHAN through collaboration with MWCD.
The event aims to promote holistic nutrition among children through engaging storytelling with cartoon characters.
Efforts to combat malnutrition and foster healthier lifestyles among children will be highlighted.
A comprehensive 'Poshan Utsav Book' curated to revive ancient nutrition traditions will be released.

Summary of PM's Address at Yavatmal, Maharashtra

PM addressed the launch of various projects in Yavatmal, Maharashtra.
Highlighted the progress made in empowering the poor, farmers, youth, and women in Yavatmal.
Announced significant projects and schemes aimed at development.
Emphasized on completing stalled irrigation projects and improving water accessibility.
Discussed initiatives like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, 'Har Ghar Jal' scheme, and welfare schemes for various communities.
Expressed commitment towards continuing development efforts and making lives better in Vidarbha.
Shared achievements like providing free healthcare, housing schemes, and financial support for marginalized communities.

Summary of PM's Address in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin)

Prime Minister addressed the laying of foundation stone/inauguration/dedication of various projects at Thoothukudi (Tuticorin).
Highlighted the importance of the projects in the roadmap for a developed India and the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
Emphasized on the progress and development in Thoothukudi being beneficial for many places across India.
Inaugurated projects worth 7,000 crores and dedicated projects worth 900 crores, boosting the maritime sector and creating employment opportunities.
Launched India's first hydrogen fuel ferry and emphasized on the importance of green energy and sustainable development.
Initiated various road, rail, and maritime projects to enhance connectivity and improve infrastructure in Tamil Nadu.
Highlighted the whole of government approach for development projects and stressed on the commitment to serve Tamil Nadu and not let development projects be obstructed.
Emphasized on the neglected maritime and waterways sectors, stating their significant role in the development of Tamil Nadu and creating new opportunities, especially for the youth.
Spoke about the achievements in the maritime and waterways sectors over the last decade, portraying India's growth and commitment to development.
Assured the people of Tamil Nadu to continue the development works and serve the state.

Summary of President's Visit to Odisha

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, laid the foundation stones for a Central Government Holiday Home and Sports Complex at Rairangpur, Odisha.
She virtually laid foundation stones for various road projects and inaugurated the Eklavya Model Residential School in Barsahi.
The government is focusing on the development of tribal areas, with initiatives such as expanding electricity and roads, providing tap water to tribal families, and launching a national mission to eradicate sickle cell anemia.
Eklavya Model Residential schools are being established for tribal students to emphasize the importance of education.
Efforts towards women empowerment and financial self-reliance are being made through various government schemes.
The President highlighted the importance of community participation in ensuring the success of government schemes.
The road projects initiated will ensure safe travel, while the Sports Complex and Holiday Home construction aim to provide better sports opportunities, encourage tourism, and generate local employment.

Summary of Prime Minister's Office Announcement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed happiness over Sachin Tendulkar's Kashmir visit.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of discovering different parts of India and the 'Make in India' initiative as takeaways for youth.
He emphasized the need to work together to build a developed and self-reliant India.
The message was shared on social media by the Prime Minister's Office.
The post aims to inspire youth to explore the diversity of India and promote indigenous manufacturing.

Summary: India's Stance on Development at the WTO

India emphasized the importance of keeping Development at the core of WTO work presently and in the future.
Historically, promises made by developed countries on development issues have not been met with sufficient action, leading to increased vulnerabilities for developing countries.
India highlighted that the multilateral trading system is facing significant challenges, and developing countries are using limited resources to defend their interests in this forum.
The principles of Special and Differential Treatment are crucial objectives of the Multilateral Trading System, and India advocated for their protection.
Developing countries, including LDCs, require flexibilities in existing rules, support for infant industries, and a level playing field to achieve industrialization.
In discussions on the draft Abu Dhabi ministerial declaration, India emphasized the need for issues relevant to developing countries to be prioritized.
India suggested that new issues should not be considered for ministerial mandates until past decisions and unfulfilled mandates are addressed.

Summary: Ministry of Defence - Defence Secretary's Interaction with German Defence Industry

Defence Secretary of India interacted with the Federal Association of the German Security and Defence Industry in Berlin.
Shri Giridhar Aramane highlighted recent reforms in the Indian defence industry to attract investments and partnerships.
India aims to become a hub for defence innovation, manufacturing, and maintenance in Asia.
The meeting included top leadership from German defence companies discussing business and investment opportunities.
The event was attended by the Indian Ambassador to Germany, Shri P Harish.

UPSC Recruitment Results Finalized in January 2024

UPSC finalized Recruitment Results in January 2024.
Recommended candidates informed individually by post.
Release issued by PIB Delhi on 28th February 2024.
Results available in multiple languages: Tamil, Malayalam, Urdu, Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati.