Vienna International Arbitral Centre Appoints Arush Khanna as India's First-Ever Ambassador
The Vienna International Arbitral Centre (VIAC) announced the appointment of Arush Khanna, Co-Founder & Partner, Numen Law Offices as its ambassador for India, marking a historic moment in the institution's 47-year history.
Khanna, who is also a Fellow at the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London and an Officer of the International Bar Association brings a wealth of expertise in Commercial Disputes and Arbitration to this role.
Turkey Ratifies Sweden's Much-delayed NATO Bid, Ball Now in Hungary's Court
The Turkish parliament gave its long-awaited approval to Sweden's NATO membership, pushing the Nordic country significantly closer to the Western military alliance.
Three months after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted a bill which approved Sweden's membership to parliament, the country's MPs voted in favour of ratification.
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the approval of Turkey and appealed to Hungary to do the same, appealing Budapest to "complete its national ratification as soon as possible.
The approval by Turkey made Hungary the only country left to ratify Swedish membership.
HDFC Bank First Lender to Issue 20 Million Credit Cards
HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector bank, became the first lender in the country to achieve the milestone of 20 million credit cards in force.
The lender forayed into the credit card business in 2001 and hit the 10-million mark in 2017.
HDFC Bank is the largest issuer of card issuers in the country, which commands over a fourth of the overall card market in terms of numbers.
HDFC Bank is followed by SBI Card, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank, in terms of the number of credit cards issued.
Switzerland-India Free Trade Agreement Concluded After 16-Year Negotiation Saga
In a historic breakthrough, Switzerland and India finally sealed a free-trade agreement (FTA) following a 16-year negotiation period. The announcement came from Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin, who, after attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, swiftly headed to India for crucial discussions with his counterpart, Piyush Goyal.
The protracted negotiations signify a landmark achievement in diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. The FTA holds immense promise for fostering stronger ties and economic collaboration.
India Overtakes Hong Kong as World's Fourth-largest Stock Market
India's stock market overtook Hong Kong's for the first time in another feat for the South Asian nation whose growth prospects and policy reforms have made it an investor paradise.
The combined value of shares listed on Indian exchanges reached $4.33 trillion as of January 22 close, versus $4.29 trillion for Hong Kong, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. That made India the fourth-biggest equity market globally.
The surge in India's stock market was attributed to several factors.
India's First Self-Made Aircraft Seat Unveiled at Wings India 2024
In a significant milestone for the Indian aviation industry, Timetooth, a Bengaluru-based engineering company, unveiled India's first-ever domestically manufactured aircraft passenger seat at the Wings India 2024 event. This groundbreaking development marks a departure from the industry norm, where 100% of aircraft seats used by India's registered air travel companies are imported.
Timetooth's launch of India's first aircraft passenger seat not only marks a historic moment for the company but also signals a paradigm shift in the Indian aviation industry. The move towards domestically produced seating solutions not only supports the government's 'Make in India' initiative but also opens doors for innovation, collaboration, and self-sufficiency in meeting the evolving needs of the aviation sector.
India Open 2024: China's Shi Yu Qi Wins Men's Singles Title
It was the second time lucky for China's Shi Yu Qi as he got the better of Hong Kong's Lee Cheuk Yiu in straits sets 23-21 and 21-17 and won the men's singles title at India Open 2024 at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi.
The India Open is an annual badminton event which has been held in India since 2008 and is a BWF World Tour Super 750 international badminton tournament. Its first three editions were designated as Grand Prix Gold events. In 2011, it was upgraded to the BWF Superseries tournament. Since then until 2019, it was held annually at the Siri Fort Sports Complex, New Delhi.
Madrid to Host Spanish F1 GP from 2026
Madrid is set to become the new host city for the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix starting from 2026. This marks a significant shift in the Spanish Grand Prix's location, as Barcelona has been the event's home since 1991. The transition will see Madrid hosting the Grand Prix for 10 years, from 2026 to 2035, introducing a brand-new circuit to the world of Formula 1.
The introduction of the Madrid Grand Prix represents a new chapter in Spain's Formula 1 racing history. With a circuit designed to combine sport and spectacle, Madrid would offer a unique and memorable experience for both fans and participants in the competition.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Launches Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman Campaign of Ministry of Law and Justice
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman campaign of the Ministry of Law and Justice, in New Delhi to commemorate the 75th Year of India as Republic.
The Vice President said that the Nation became fifth largest economy and it will be third largest economy soon. He said, entire world looks up to Bharat.
During the Event, Nyaya Setu was launched which is a significant and transformative step that aims to extend and expand the reach of legal services till the last mile.
IICF to Build 'Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah' Mosque in Ayodhya
The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) announced the commencement of the construction of a grand mosque in Ayodhya, starting May 2024. The mosque, named 'Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah' after Prophet Muhammad, aims to foster unity and goodwill among people, transcending religious differences. The initiative came on the same day as Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple.
Special Forces of India, Kyrgyzstan Hold 13-day Counter-terror Exercise
Special Forces of India and Kyrgyzstan kick-started a 13-day exercise in Himachal Pradesh's Bakloh with a focus on combating terrorism and extremism. It was the 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan annual 'Khanjar' Exercise.
The Indian Army contingent comprised 20 personnel from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) while the Kyrgyz team with equal number of personnel was represented by the Kyrgyz Special Forces' Scorpion brigade.
The aim of the exercise was to exchange experiences and best practices in counter terrorism and Special Forces operations in built-up area and mountainous terrain under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.
The International Day of Education is annually celebrated on January 24. This year (2024) marked the sixth year of the celebration.
In 2018, January 24 was declared as the International Day of Education by a resolution that was passed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on December 3, 2018. Following this, the first International Day of Education was observed on January 24, 2019.
The theme of the 2024 celebrations is 'learning for lasting peace'.
National Girl Child Day
National Girl Child Day, observed annually on January 24, is a crucial initiative by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in India. It was launched in 2008 as part of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, aiming to address the challenges faced by girls in Indian society and promote gender equality.
The primary objectives of National Girl Child Day include promoting gender equality, empowering girls through education and skills, protecting their rights against gender-based violence and harmful practices, and addressing issues such as child marriage.
The day reinforces objectives such as eliminating inequalities, ensuring respect and value for each girl child, upholding human rights, maintaining a balanced child-sex ratio, changing societal perspectives, and addressing issues related to health, education, and nutrition.
UP Govt Honourd Dr. Ritu and Naveen with 'UP Gaurav Samman'
Yogi government of Uttar Pradesh announced the prestigious 'UP Gaurav Samman' award for two distinguished personalities – eminent scientist Dr. Ritu and renowned entrepreneur Naveen. This award highlights the government's commitment to acknowledging excellence and inspiring future generations.
Dr. Ritu, whose groundbreaking work in the field of science gained national and international recognition, received this honour for her significant contributions to scientific research and innovation. With a career spanning several years, Dr. Ritu has been at the forefront of scientific discovery, specializing in areas that have had a profound impact on society.
Naveen, a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success, has transformed the landscape of business with his innovative ideas and leadership skills. Starting from humble beginnings, Naveen has built a business empire that not only generates substantial economic value but also creates numerous job opportunities.
Former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur Awarded Bharat Ratna Posthumously
Former Bihar Chief Minister, Karpoori Thakur, was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, the nation's highest civilian award. This recognition is a significant acknowledgement of Thakur's contributions to Indian politics and social reform.
Karpoori Thakur, born in January 1924, was a prominent figure in Bihar's political landscape. Known for his deep connection with the backward classes, Thakur's political journey was marked by his steadfast commitment to social justice. He served as Bihar's Chief Minister twice, first from December 1970 to June 1971 and again from December 1977 to April 1979.
Thakur was a strong advocate for the underprivileged, championing the cause of the socially and economically marginalised sections of society. His tenure as Chief Minister was notable for implementing progressive policies, including land reforms and initiatives aimed at the uplifting of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Cabo Verde Achieves Malaria-Free Certification by WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially certified Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country. This accomplishment positioned Cabo Verde alongside Mauritius and Algeria as the third nation in the WHO African region to achieve malaria-free status.
The WHO certifies a country as malaria-free after it demonstrates the interruption of nationwide malaria transmission for a minimum of three consecutive years. Additionally, the country must have a robust surveillance and response system in place to prevent the re-establishment of indigenous transmission.
Cabo Verde's certification adds to the list of 43 countries and 1 territory globally that were recognised as 'malaria-free' by the WHO. Notable instances in the South East Asian region include the Maldives (2015) and Sri Lanka (2016), while India awaits such certification.
Central Government Launches 'Anuvadini' App for Multilingual Education
In a move towards promoting multilingualism in education, the central government introduced the 'Anuvadini' app, an Artificial Intelligence-based platform. The initiative aims to make study materials for all school and higher education courses available in digital form, specifically in Indian languages listed in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This step aligns with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasising the importance of studying in one's mother tongue.
The University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE), and the Department of School Education have been instructed to ensure the availability of study materials in regional languages.
Educational regulators, including UGC, AICTE, NCERT, NIOS, IGNOU, and institutions like IITs, CUs, and NITs, are mandated to make study materials accessible in Indian languages within the next three years.
The NEP 2020 underscores the value of India's multilingual nature, considering it a significant asset for the nation's socio-cultural, economic, and educational development.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy Inaugurates Five New Galleries at Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, G. Kishan Reddy, inaugurated five new galleries at the renowned Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad. Recognised as one of India's premier cultural institutions, the Salar Jung Museum has undertaken significant initiatives under the leadership of Kishan Reddy to revitalise its exhibitions.
The five new galleries are:
Indian Sculpture Gallery: Featuring nearly 40 artifacts, some dating back to the 2nd Century B.C., including a fragment from Bharhut with a lotus medallion and the Kakatiya period's 'Anantsayana Vishnu.'
Bidriware Gallery: Showcasing 300 unique objects, including exquisite 'huqqa' bases and ewers.
Lamp and Chandelier Gallery: Displaying 180 antique objects from around the globe.
European Bronze Gallery: Housing over 100 bronze statues.
European Marble Gallery: Featuring 50 outstanding marble sculptures.
These galleries not only enrich the museum's repertoire but also offer visitors a captivating journey through the diverse realms of Indian and global artistry.
Amit Shah Launches Book 'Assam's Braveheart Lachit Barphukan'
Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a book titled 'Assam's Braveheart Lachit Barphukan' in Guwahati, Assam. The event, graced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and other dignitaries, took place at the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati's Panjabari.
The book, authored by Arup Kumar Dutta, delves into the life of the legendary 17th-century Ahom warrior Lachit Barphukan. It highlights his significant role in defending Assam against the Mughal army, chronicling historical events and the enduring influence of Barphukan's legacy.
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