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Current Affairs on 06 March, 2024

Advisory by Central Consumer Protection Authority on Prohibition of Illegal Activities Promotion

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued an advisory prohibiting the advertising, promotion, and endorsement of illegal activities like betting and gambling.
Betting and gambling are strictly prohibited under the Public Gambling Act, 1867, and online platforms promoting them face scrutiny.
CCPA warns celebrities and influencers that endorsing online gambling holds equal liability for engaging in illegal activities.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued advisories to media platforms against publicizing betting and gambling.
Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements and Endorsements for Misleading Advertisements, 2022, apply to all advertisements irrespective of the medium used.
Stringent measures under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, will be taken against violators including manufacturers, advertisers, and social media platforms.
All stakeholders are urged to adhere strictly to the guidelines and refrain from promoting or endorsing illegal activities.

APEDA Facilitates Exposure Visit of FPOs to UAE

APEDA, under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, organized an exposure visit for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to the UAE.
47 FPO representatives visited fruit and vegetable markets to explore export opportunities.
An FPO finalized an order for fresh turmeric to the UAE, with more orders expected soon.
A capacity-building program was conducted to share experiences and learnings with other farmers.
Consignments of fresh turmeric and mixed fruits were flagged off to the UAE, showcasing the region's export potential.
APEDA has identified the Purvanchal region as a model Agri Export Hub and enrolled more than 120 FPOs as members.
Significant progress in agricultural exports was noted, with a rise from 151 MT to 702 MT in FY 2023-24.
APEDA's efforts have positively transformed the agri-export landscape in the Purvanchal region, leading to growth in agri-exports.
Through capacity-building programs and international meets, APEDA has empowered FPOs and exporters to tap into global markets.
UP has emerged as the third-largest agricultural exporting state in India, showcasing its potential and APEDA's support.

Clarification on Provisions under Finance Act 2023 for Donations by Trusts/Institutions

Donations made by a trust or institution to another trust or institution are clarified under the Finance Act 2023 by the CBDT.
Trusts or institutions registered under sections 12AA or 12AB of the Income Tax Act 1961 are exempt, subject to meeting certain conditions.
Income of specified entities like funds, educational institutions, hospitals, and trusts is exempt under the Act.
Finance Act 2023 stipulates that donations made by a trust, other than towards corpus, will be considered for charitable or religious purposes up to 85% of the donation.
CBDT received concerns regarding the remaining 15% of the donation and clarified the matter through Circular No. 3/2024 with illustrative examples for better understanding.

Competition Commission of India: Approval of Acquisition

CCI has approved the acquisition of 59.25% shareholding in Maini Precision Products Limited (MPPL) by Ring Plus Aqua Limited (RPAL).
The transaction also involves acquisition of JK Files & Engineering Limited's entire shareholding in JK Talabot Limited by a subsidiary of Raymond Limited, and the merger of RPAL, MPPL, and the engineering business of JK Files into a new company.
Raymond Limited and its subsidiaries deal in textiles, lifestyle products, branded apparel, hardware, automotive parts, and real estate.
JK Files, a subsidiary of Raymond, is involved in manufacturing hand tools, files, cutting tools, and importing power tools.
RPAL, a subsidiary of JK Files, is engaged in manufacturing ring gears, flex plates, and water pump bearings.
Maini Precision Products Limited manufactures precision products for various industries based on customer design requirements.

CSIR-NIScPR Expert Review Meeting on Millets for Sustainable Health in India

CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR) hosted an Expert Review Meeting on 'Millets for Sustainable Health in India' in New Delhi.
The meeting focused on enhancing nutritional security and sustainable health through millets in India from a policy perspective.
Key experts from the millet industry, researchers, and policymakers discussed the development of the millets value chain in India.
Concerns were raised about the 60% decline in millet cultivation in India since 1950 due to a lack of policy and market-driven demand.
The need for a millet revolution, led by PM Modi, was emphasized to address the unorganized practices and farmer disinterest in millet cultivation.
Experts highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the profitability of millet crops and promoting millet consumption among farmers and children.
Suggestions were made to establish a dedicated board for millets and formulate policies to enhance coordination efforts and education on millets.
Various stakeholders from the millet industry shared their challenges and successes during the meeting.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, recognizing the collaborative efforts to shape policies for nutritional security and sustainable health through millets in India.

Deployment of Pine Needles-based Fuel-making Technology in Champawat

CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum signed an MoU with UCOST to deploy technology for making fuel from Pine Needles in Champawat.
The project aims to implement a briquetting unit and improved cookstoves at the grassroots level in Champawat under the "Adarsh Champawat" mission.
The briquettes produced from Pine Needles will be used as fuel in homes and local industries to reduce forest fires and protect the environment.
The project focuses on energy conservation, environmental impact assessment, and women empowerment through the establishment of a briquetting unit in Champawat's Energy Park.
CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum has developed technology for Pine Needle briquetting and energy-efficient biomass cookstoves to reduce household pollution.
UCOST is working towards making Champawat an ideal district by creating business opportunities for rural people through Pine Needle collection and value addition.
The project aims to provide training and skill development for rural entrepreneurship, generating new employment opportunities in Champawat.
Through workshops, exhibitions, and distance learning methods, the project aims to revive scientific temperament and skill development among local women and youth.

Development Projects in Bihar: PM Addresses Viksit Bharat Viksit Bihar Program

PM Narendra Modi addresses Viksit Bharat Viksit Bihar program in Bettiah, Bihar
Lays foundation stone and dedicates to the nation multiple development projects worth around Rs 12,800 Crores in Bettiah, Bihar
Inaugurates 109 km long Indian Oil’s Muzaffarpur - Motihari LPG Pipeline
Dedicates to the nation Indian Oil’s LPG Bottling Plant & storage terminal in Motihari
Lays foundation stone for City Gas Distribution projects and Grain-based Ethanol projects
Lays foundation stone and dedicates multiple rail and road projects
Flags off two new train services between Narkatiaganj - Gaunaha and Raxaul - Jogbani
PM emphasizes Bihar's role in India's prosperity and the need for Viksit Bihar for a Viksit Bharat
PM highlights efforts of the double-engine government in Bihar to provide jobs for the state's youth
Mentions various government initiatives for the poor, women, youth, and farmers
Emphasizes the importance of development projects, renewable energy, and digital initiatives for a developed India

Enhancing Hydrogen Production through Urea-Assisted Water Splitting

A new catalyst has been developed to facilitate urea-assisted water splitting for energy-efficient hydrogen production.
This catalyst efficiently oxidizes urea, reducing the energy demand for hydrogen generation by about 30%.
The catalyst, Neodymium Nickelate (NdNiO3), shows metallic conductivity and superior stability during prolonged electrolysis.
It addresses the challenge of COx poisons, known for deactivating catalysts, enhancing the overall durability of the process.
Computational calculations validate the experimental findings, making it a promising solution for sustainable and efficient hydrogen production.
Published in ACS Catalysis, this work aims to enhance performance with low mass loading of active Ni in the catalyst for future studies.

Expansion of National Highway -34 Projects in West Bengal Sanctioned by Ministry of Road Transport & Highways

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has approved Rs. 553.12 crore for the expansion of National Highway -34 projects in Nadia, Murshidabad, and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal.
The funding is allocated for the development and 4-laning of the Krishnagar-Behrampore and Barasat – Barajaguli sections on National Highway – 34, covering a total distance of 28.23 Km.
The project aims to reduce congestion on the current 2-lane highway and facilitate smoother movement of freight from South Bengal to North Bengal.
The initiative falls under the NH(O) plan and is part of the government's efforts towards building better infrastructure in the region.

Indian Army Ex-Servicemen Rallies in Manipur Summary

Indian Army conducted Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rallies in Manipur to connect with veterans.
Rallies held in Bishnupur, Senapati, and Churachandpur districts in February and March 2024.
Over 2000 attendees, including war veterans, Veer Naris, widows, and dependents participated.
Rallies aimed to address grievances related to pensions, healthcare, documentation, and other services for ESM.
Medical camps with specialists provided healthcare assistance and essential medicines.
Gen. Maj Sameer Sharan Kartikeya interacted with attendees, expressing gratitude for their service and sacrifices.
Events showcased Indian Army's commitment to supporting veterans and their families during challenging times.

Job Opportunity: Economic Adviser at 16th Finance Commission

The Ministry of Finance's 16th Finance Commission (XVIFC) is looking to fill the position of Economic Adviser on a deputation/contract basis.
The position is at Level-14 (Joint Secretary level) of pay matrix as per the 7th Central Pay Commission.
The eligibility criteria, job responsibilities, emoluments, and application form can be found on the XVIFC's website.
Interested candidates can access the Circular and Proforma for Application on the XVIFC's website.
This announcement was made on 06 MAR 2024 by PIB Delhi.

Key Initiatives by Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare for Pensioners Welfare

The 53rd Pre-Retirement Counseling Workshop was conducted in Ahmedabad on 5th March, 2024, benefitting over 300 retiring Central Government employees from various ministries.
The 7th Banker's Awareness Workshop for Bank of Baroda officers focused on improving coordination for redressal of Pensioner Grievances and digital initiatives.
An interactive meeting was held with five Pensioners' Welfare Associations from Gujarat to discuss government policies and digital empowerment for pensioners' welfare.

Key Points from Ministry of Home Affairs Release

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, addressed IGF Annual Investment Summit-NXT10 in Mumbai, emphasizing the significance of upcoming elections in India and the government's achievements under PM Modi's leadership.
Shri Amit Shah highlighted the transformative decisions taken by the Modi government in various sectors like economy, education, security, and governance over the past 10 years.
He praised PM Modi for his visionary leadership, commitment to development, and efforts to connect with the youth through platforms for investment, innovation, and ideas.
Shri Shah discussed India's progress under PM Modi's government, moving towards becoming a top economy, reducing poverty, enhancing infrastructure, boosting FDI, and improving various economic indicators.
He mentioned the government's focus on eradicating corruption, implementing policies to empower women, reforming criminal justice system, and achieving various milestones in different sectors.
Shri Amit Shah highlighted PM Modi's ambitious goals for India, aiming to make the country a global leader in various fields by 2047, emphasizing the role of citizen confidence in India's development.

Ministry of Coal: Draft RFP's on Coal Gasification Scheme Overview

The Ministry of Coal has issued three draft Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to seek feedback from Government PSUs and Private Investors for coal gasification plants in India.
Government has allocated ₹ 8500 crores for coal gasification projects, divided into three categories with specific grant amounts and criteria.
Category I offers Rs. 4,050 crores to Government PSUs, Category II earmarks Rs. 3,850 crores for both Private Sector and Government PSUs, and Category III includes Rs. 600 crores for Demonstration Projects.
The stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the draft RFPs until March 20, 2024, highlighting the Ministry's commitment to advancing coal gasification projects in India.

Ministry of Electronics & IT

Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurates 2 STPI Centres in Thiruvananthapuram & Kochi.
Bharat Semiconductor Research Centre (BSRC) to have a regional center at IIST, Thiruvananthapuram.
Focus on boosting startup and tech ecosystem in Kerala, with an emphasis on semiconductors.
Facilitation of MoU between IBM and C-DAC to enhance India's Processor Design and manufacturing capabilities for High-Performance Computing.
Efforts to position Kerala as a key technology hub in South India under PM Modi's leadership.
Launch of FutureDESIGN program to empower startups in the semiconductor field.
Significant progress in the semiconductor ecosystem in India highlighted, with opportunities for young Indians and startups to participate.
Emphasis on building an "Atmanirbhar Bharat" with a focus on semiconductor design and innovation.
Government's efforts in funding startups with around Rs 1,000 crore allocated in this area.
Creation of a vibrant, globally competitive startup ecosystem in the semiconductor field in the last two years.

Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs Summary

Union Minister Hardeep S Puri emphasized the role of young people in driving urban development in India.
Significant increase in investment in urban areas has been seen since 2014, with a focus on technology and innovation.
The Minister interacted with students from Delhi University to discuss urbanization and city planning issues.
Increased investment in urban areas from Rs. 1.78 lakh crores (2004-2014) to over Rs. 18 lakh crores (2014-2023) was highlighted.
Progress in waste processing, urban mobility, and affordable housing in cities was acknowledged.
Importance of building a connect between the Government and young people to understand and appreciate government initiatives was stressed.
Visit to the India Urban Observatory (IUO) provided insights into urban schemes and data leveraging AI/ML and data science.
Explanation of 'Smart Cities' concept in India and the role of Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCC) in managing COVID-19.
Introduction of 'The Urban Learning Internship Program (TULIP)' to harness the energy and ideas of students for co-creating solutions for urban development.

Ministry of Jal Shakti Signs Agreement with Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore for Establishment of International Centre of Excellence for Dams (ICED)

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore to establish the International Centre of Excellence for Dams (ICED).
ICED will focus on providing solutions to emerging challenges in dam safety through scientific research and act as the technological arm of the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
It will offer specialized technical support for Indian and overseas dam owners, conduct research in advanced construction materials and risk assessment for dams.
The Ministry will provide a grant of Rs. 118.05 Crore for the procurement of equipment, research activities, and infrastructure for ICED.
IISc Bangalore will work on assuring the safety of ageing and new dams, train dam engineers, and aim for self-sufficiency within 10 years through income generation.
ICED will contribute to 'Make in India' in dam safety by developing technologies, creating competent manpower, and providing effective solutions for dam safety challenges.
ICED at IISc Bangalore is the second International Centre for Dam Safety, with the first one at IIT Roorkee, established in February 2023.

Ministry of Road Transport & Highways: Development Project in Karnataka

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has sanctioned Rs. 2675.31 crore for the 4-laning of National Highway -748A in Karnataka.
The project is for the Belgaum-Hungund-Raichur Section of Bagalkot & Belgavi districts.
The initiative will be implemented through the Hybrid Annuity Mode and covers a total length of 92.40 Km.
This project is a part of the Panaji-Hyderabad EC10 corridor connecting industrial hubs in different states.
The industrial hubs connected by the corridor include Panaji, Belgavi, Raichur, and Hyderabad, known for various industries and sectors.

Ministry of Science & Technology: Key Insights

Biomanufacturing and Bio-foundry will drive India’s future bioeconomy towards "Green Growth"
Biotechnology research and bio start-ups are prioritized and center stage under PM Modi's policy shift
India has seen significant growth in its bio-economy, with nearly 6,000 bio-startups now compared to 50 in the past 10 years
India conducted its first human clinical trial of gene therapy for haemophilia A (FVIII deficiency)
Dr. Jitendra Singh launched ‘ICE’-Integrated Computing Environment, a cloud-based computational facility for life science researchers
India is working towards developing vaccines for various diseases, highlighting its progress in preventive healthcare
India is rated among the top 12 biotechnology destinations globally and has a wealth of bioresources for harnessing

Ministry of Textiles: Key Points and Initiatives

Minister Piyush Goyal encourages textile beneficiaries to promote local products globally.
Government willing to procure jute and cotton harvest if farmers receive prices lower than MSP.
Artisans urged to utilize e-commerce platforms like GeM for business visibility and income enhancement.
Focus on quality, packaging to increase brand value and income of artisans.
Government supporting handmade products under 'Made in India' initiative.
Emphasis on technological innovation in the textile sector to boost artisans' income.
Various schemes of Ministry of Textiles to benefit artisans and weavers.
Significance of textile sector in providing employment highlighted.
Event attended by Minister of State for Textiles and Railways and officials from Ministry of Textiles.

Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports: Khelo India Medal Winners Eligible for Government Jobs

Khelo India medal winners are now eligible for government jobs.
Revised rules by Department of Personnel and Training and Department of Sports aim to support athletes with enhanced incentives, transparency, and inclusivity.
Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur announced the eligibility of Khelo India medal winners for government jobs to nurture talent and turn sports into a viable career option.
Eligibility now extends to medal winners from various Khelo India Games categories, such as Youth Games, Winter Games, Para Games, and University Games.
Clear criteria have been established for national and international chess competitions to provide opportunities for chess enthusiasts.
A structured hierarchy based on sporting achievements will prioritize candidates for government employment opportunities.
Certificates validating the eligibility of sportspersons for recruitment can now be issued by authorized entities like Secretaries of National Sports Federations, Secretaries of State Associations, and Deans or Sports Officers of Universities.
Khelo India Games have been recognized as events of national significance.

NITI Aayog National Conference Summary

NITI Aayog organized a 'National Conference on Accelerating Sustainable Development Goals' in partnership with Government of Rajasthan, UNDP, and UN in India.
The conference aimed to encourage States and UTs to localize and institutionalize SDGs, explore SDG financing, and accelerate progress towards SDG targets by the mid-point of the 2030 agenda.
Senior government officials from 31 States and UTs, along with Government of India, participated in the two-day conference.
The conference included technical sessions on SDG Monitoring, Institutionalization, Financing, and Lessons from Localizing SDGs in India.
An SDG exhibition provided a platform for States and UTs to showcase their initiatives at respective SDG booths for cross-learning and knowledge exchange.
NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman highlighted the importance of sharing innovative SDG practices during the event and thanked partners UNDP and UN for supporting SDG efforts at the subnational level.
Three knowledge portals were inaugurated during the conference to enhance information sharing and analysis related to SDGs and food security.

NITI Aayog's 'NITI For States' Platform Launch Summary

Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to launch NITI Aayog's 'NITI For States' Platform.
The platform is a Digital Public Infrastructure for Policy & Good Governance.
Contains a live repository of 7,500 Best Practices, 5,000 Policy documents, and more.
Knowledge products span 10 sectors like Agriculture, Education, Health, etc.
Platform aims to enhance decision-making and digital transformation of governance.
'Viksit Bharat Strategy Room' inaugurated for immersive data visualization and interaction.
Collaboration with iGOT Karmayogi, NDAP, NeGD, and other organizations for support.

NITI Aayog's Frontier Technology Labs Initiative

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and Meta have collaborated to establish Frontier Technology Labs (FTLs) in schools for democratizing future technologies and innovation.
The FTLs will be advanced versions of Atal Tinkering Labs, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to empower students to innovate using technologies like AI, AR/VR, Blockchain, Robotics, etc.
AIM has set up 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in schools across India to foster curiosity, creativity, and skills like design thinking, computational skills, and physical computing.
Students in FTLs will receive training in AI, generative AI, AR/VR, cybersecurity, etc., and access tools and resources from Meta to develop innovative solutions.
The FTLs aim to equip youth with digital skills essential for success in the evolving tech landscape and are funded by Meta while AIM acts as the knowledge partner.
Establishing these labs aligns with the goal of Atal Innovation Mission to create a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in schools and contribute to building a skilled workforce for the future.

Notification of Rules under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Amended in 2022)

Notification of Rules framed under Section 49M of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (amended in 2022).
The Act aims to protect wild animals, manage their habitat, and regulate trade in products derived from them.
Section 49M of the Act deals with registration of possession, transfer, birth, and death reporting of scheduled animal species.
The Ministry of Environment has notified Rules for Section 49M effective from 28th February 2024.
All persons with living specimens of such animal species must apply for registration within six months and report possession, transfer, birth, and death within the specified timeframe.
Registration and reporting are to be done through the PARIVESH 2.0 portal.

Overview of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

Enrollment under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) has increased by 27% in the current year. - Rs. 500 in claims are paid to farmers for every Rs. 100 of premium paid under PMFBY. - Over 23.22 crore farmer applicants have received claims in the past 8 years since the implementation of PMFBY. - PMFBY is a demand-driven and voluntary scheme for states and farmers. - The scheme has seen a 33.4% and 41% year-on-year growth in farmer applications in recent years. - 42% of farmers insured under the scheme in FY 2023-24 are non-loanee farmers. - PMFBY aims to provide financial support to stabilize farmers' incomes during crop loss due to unforeseen events. - The scheme is the third largest insurance scheme globally in terms of premium. - Various measures have been taken to increase coverage under PMFBY, including technological interventions, alternate risk models, and extended tenure for selecting insurance companies. - Operational guidelines of PMFBY are periodically revised to ensure timely and transparent delivery of benefits to farmers.

President of India Presents Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships and Awards

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, presented Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships and Awards for the year 2022 and 2023 in New Delhi on March 6, 2024.
The President highlighted the social purpose of art and the contribution of artists in awakening society through their creations.
She emphasized the importance of art in addressing mental health issues like stress and depression by promoting creativity, spirituality, and meaning in life.
The President lauded the role of art and artists in uniting the diverse cultures of India and fulfilling constitutional duties.
She commended Sangeet Natak Akademi for promoting various art forms and intangible heritage for seven decades.
The President congratulated the recipients of Akademi's Fellowship and Awards, expressing confidence in their ability to enrich Indian art traditions.

President Of India Presents Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships And Awards

President of India conferred Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2022 & 2023 to 91 artists in performing arts.
3 artists couldn't attend due to health issues; their awards will be delivered later.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships were awarded to 6 eminent artists.
President stressed the social purpose of art and its role in unity & spiritual well-being.
Government aims to empower performing arts as a soft power of India.
Sangeet Natak Akademi praised for promoting art forms and intangible heritage.
Ministry highlighted revival of rare art forms through training programmes.
Akademi Awards symbolize excellence, carry purse money and honors sustained contribution.

President's Secretariat: Inauguration of Visitor Facilitation Centre at Rashtrapati Nilayam

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu virtually inaugurated the Visitor Facilitation Centre (VFC) at Rashtrapati Nilayam on March 6, 2024.
The VFC offers various historical attractions at Rashtrapati Nilayam including a replica of the historic wooden flagpost, stepwell, maze garden, children's park, and rock garden sculptures.
The VFC aims to enhance visitor experience and connect people with the rich heritage of the country.
The President emphasized the importance of nurturing young change-makers to carry forward the nation's legacy.
The Rashtrapati Nilayam is open for the public throughout the year except during the President's southern sojourn.

Prime Minister's Visit to Srinagar - Key Highlights

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir on 7th March, 2024.
Launch of ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir’ programme.
Dedication of Rs 5000 crore ‘Holistic Agriculture Development Programme’ for boosting agri-economy in J&K.
Launch of 52 tourism sector projects worth over Rs 1400 crore under Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD Scheme.
Dedication of the ‘Integrated Development of Hazratbal Shrine’ project in Srinagar.
Announcement of tourist destinations selected under Challenge Based Destination Development Scheme.
Launch of ‘Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice 2024’ nationwide initiative.
Launch of ‘Chalo India Global Diaspora Campaign’ to engage Indian diaspora as tourism ambassadors.
Distribution of appointment orders to new Government recruits of J&K.

Promoting Clean Coal Technology: Coal Gasification

The Ministry of Coal in India is focusing on promoting clean coal technology, especially coal gasification, to transition towards cleaner energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
Coal plays a significant role in India's energy system and various industries, making it crucial for economic growth.
The government has launched the Coal Gasification Mission to gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030 through surface coal/lignite gasification projects.
Financial assistance schemes have been proposed to support coal gasification projects with an allocation of ₹8500 crores for incentives.
Joint venture agreements have been approved to set up gasification projects, such as the collaboration between Coal India Limited (CIL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) for setting up an ammonium nitrate plant through coal gasification.
The adoption of gasification technology aims to reduce import dependency and promote self-reliance, creating employment opportunities and contributing to India's vision of becoming Aatmanirbhar.
The government is also engaged in other clean coal initiatives like extracting Coal Bed Methane (CBM) gases, exploring Coal to Hydrogen, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS, and coal beneficiation to enhance environmental sustainability.
Investing in research and development is a priority to enhance coal utilization efficiency and develop innovative technologies for long-term competitiveness and sustainability.

Role of Coal CPSEs in Service of Humanity

Coal CPSEs like Coal India Limited (CIL), NLC India Limited (NLCIL) and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) play a crucial role in meeting India's energy needs.
They contribute to economic growth, energy security, and job creation, while also focusing on sustainability and environmental conservation.
Through initiatives like Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), community development, and investment in education and healthcare, they impact society positively.
Coal CPSEs prioritize health and safety measures for their workforce and local communities, ensuring a safe work environment and supporting healthcare infrastructure.
They are exploring renewable energy projects to align with global efforts towards sustainable energy transition and reduction of carbon footprints.
By harmonizing growth with responsibility, coal CPSEs aim to leave a lasting positive impact on society and the environment.

Summary of APEDA's Initiatives for Agricultural Exports

APEDA is focusing on promoting agriculture exports from India, especially fresh fruits, vegetables, processed foods, and animal products.
Efforts are being made to expand into key markets like Europe, Latin America, and Asia and establish collaborations with global supermarkets.
Initiatives like promoting Shree Anna-Millets are in line with the government's vision of a healthier food landscape.
Exports to markets like Iraq, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, and the UK have seen significant growth, showcasing increasing global demand for Indian agricultural products.
Support is being extended to startups, women entrepreneurs, and Farmer Producer Organizations to participate in global events.
APEDA is exploring new market opportunities by participating in fairs in emerging markets such as Turkey, South Korea, Kenya, South Africa, and Japan.

Summary of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare Initiatives

The Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare conducted the 53rd Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop in Ahmedabad for over 300 Central Government employees retiring in the next 12 months.
A Bankers' Awareness Workshop for Bank of Baroda officers handling pension-related work was successfully organized with discussions on improved coordination for grievance redressal and digital initiatives.
An interactive meeting was held with five Pensioners' Welfare Associations in Gujarat to discuss policies for improving pensioners' welfare, emphasizing dignity and digital empowerment post-retirement.

Summary of Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs Announcement

Prime Minister inaugurated multiple connectivity projects for urban mobility enhancement.
Projects inaugurated include various metro sections in Kolkata, Pune, Kochi, Agra, and Duhai-Modinagar section of Delhi-Meerut RRTS Corridor.
Foundation stone laid for extending Pune Metro Rail project Phase 1 between Pimpri Chinchwad Metro-Nigdi.
Prime Minister inspected Kolkata's Underwater Metro and interacted with workers and school children during a metro ride.
Minister Hardeep S Puri highlighted the growth in India's infrastructure, especially in urban transport sector, showcasing increased metro networks and ridership figures.

Summary of Ministry of Labour & Employment Decision

The ESIC will establish a Sub-Regional Office at Alwar, Rajasthan to benefit around 12 lakh insured workers and beneficiaries in the region.
Approval was given for the construction of 7 new ESI Hospitals in different locations with a total estimated cost of Rs. 1128.21 crore.
Decisions were made to enhance medical care and cash benefits for insured workers and their families, aligning with the vision for improving infrastructure and services.
The expansion in the number of districts and insured workers under the ESI Scheme over the past decade was highlighted, with numbers reaching 666 districts and 3.43 crore insured workers.

Summary of National Workshop on Digital Forecasting Techniques and Decision Support System

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare organized a National Workshop on 'Digital Forecasting Techniques and Decision Support System for Climate Resilient Agriculture in Rainfed Eco-systems' in New Delhi.
The workshop aimed at identifying innovative solutions, refining forecasting models, and developing a robust framework for effective risk mitigation measures in agriculture.
Keynote addresses were given by officials from FAO India and the Department of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.
The technical sessions focused on digital forecasting techniques, Integrated Systems to Access Agricultural Resources, Geo-spatial Solutions, and AgriMedia's role in empowering agriculture.
Discussions included insights from beneficiary farmers and experts, exploring strategies and technologies for bolstering climate resilience in rainfed agriculture.
Government officials, agricultural experts, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders collaborated to discuss sustainable agricultural practices and the potential of digital agriculture to revolutionize the farming sector.

Summary of National Youth Parliament Festival, 2024

Speaker, Lok Sabha Shri Om Birla and Shri Anurag Singh Thakur addressed National Youth Parliament Festival, 2024.
Yatin Bhaskar Duggal from Haryana won the first prize; Vaishna Pitchai from Tamil Nadu and Kanishka Sharma from Rajasthan won second and third prize respectively.
India aims to become 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 with the youth's thinking capability, ability to innovate, and zeal to work.
The determined voice of the youth reflects India's determination as a nation.
The festival was organized on the theme 'Young Voices: Engage and Empower for Nation’s Transformation'.
The festival took place from 9th February 2024 to 6th March 2024 across the country, involving 785 districts.
Winners from district and state-level Youth Parliaments participated in the National Youth Parliament in New Delhi.
The festival aims to strengthen democracy, promote youth engagement, and build leadership qualities among the youth.

Summary of NLC India Green Energy Limited's Solar Power Project

NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has set up a subsidiary named NLC India Green Energy Limited (NIGEL) to focus on Renewable Energy Projects.
NIGEL has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) for a 600 MW Solar Power Project in Khavda Solar Park, Bhuj District, Gujarat.
The PPA tariff for electricity from the project is set at Rs. 2.705/kWhr with an annual generation of 1,577.88 MU and cumulative generation of 39.447 BU.
The project is expected to offset approximately 35.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions during its lifetime.
The project will be the largest solar project developed by NLCIL to date and will benefit from being located in a Solar Park with existing infrastructure and payment security for power sold.

Summary of PM Modi's Inauguration of Connectivity Projects in Kolkata

PM Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stone for multiple connectivity projects worth Rs 15,400 crores in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Took a metro ride on the Esplanade - Howrah Maidan metro route, which is India's first underwater Metro in Kolkata.
Highlighted the significance of the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade Metro section having the first underwater metro transportation tunnel under any major river in the country.
Interacted with workers and school children during his metro journey.
Projects include Kolkata Metro expansion, Pune Metro extension, Kochi Metro Rail Phase I Extension, Agra Metro stretch, and Delhi-Meerut RRTS extension.
New sections will decongest road traffic, provide comfortable connectivity, and boost economic activity in the regions.
The Howrah Maidan - Esplanade Metro section has India's first underwater transportation tunnel, and Howrah Metro Station is the deepest in India.
The Majerhat Metro Station inaugurated is a unique elevated Metro station across railway lines, platforms, and canal.

Summary of PM's Address at Viksit Bharat-Viksit Bihar Programme

The Prime Minister addressed the Viksit Bharat-Viksit Bihar programme in Bettiah, Bihar.
Highlighted Bihar's historical significance and contributions to the nation.
Emphasized the importance of Bihar's development for a developed India.
Mentioned government initiatives and projects worth nearly 13,000 crores in Bihar.
Focused on creating employment opportunities for Bihar's youth through infrastructure projects and industries.
Discussed the government's efforts towards sustainable development, renewable energy, and modernizing the economy.
Addressed concerns about dynastic politics, corruption, and the need for good governance.
Outlined various welfare schemes for the poor, women, farmers, and youth.
Urged for support to NDA beyond 400 seats for further progress and development.
Ended with chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai!"

Summary: Ministry of Finance Report on DRI Interception of Illegal Elephant Tusk Trade

Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepts illegal elephant tusk trade in Bengaluru.
Seven individuals arrested for involvement in the illicit trade.
Operation led to recovery of two elephant tusks weighing 6.8 kg.
Recent amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act grant DRI enhanced powers to combat domestic illegal wildlife trade.
DRI officers seized a total of 57.5 kg of elephant tusks in various operations across India in the fiscal year 2023-2024.

Summary: Workshop on Financial Management and Education Planning by Ministry of Education

Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Shri Sanjay Kumar chaired a workshop on Financial Management and Education Planning in Kerala.
The workshop was part of the STARS programme, a centrally sponsored scheme supported by the World Bank.
Officials from Ministry of Education, Education Departments of 6 STARS States, and World Bank representatives participated in the workshop.
The workshop aimed at enhancing education quality and access through strategic planning under the STARS Project.
Discussions included topics like multi-year planning, budget utilization, risk-based internal audits, and decentralized education planning.
The workshop focused on addressing challenges, aligning planning with budgetary allocations, and improving educational outcomes.

Vice President's Itinerary on 8th March, 2024

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar to visit Bengaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, and Coimbatore on March 8, 2024.
He will visit ISRO Satellite Integration and Testing Establishment (ISITE) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Shri Dhankhar will confer the Rajanaka Puraskar in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
He will also visit Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.