Ursula von der Leyen Unveils New European Commission Team
The head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, presented her proposed new team of commissioners after negotiations with the EU's member states.
The European Commission is the EU's equivalent of a cabinet, and each commissioner is responsible for a different portfolio.
Out of a total of 26 proposed commissioners, 10 are women and 16 are men.
When she was elected European Commission president for a second five-year term in July (2024), Ms von der Leyen has asked member countries to put forward two names, a man and a woman, as candidates.
World Bank Pledges Additional Support of $2 Billion for Bangladesh
The World Bank said it could mobilise an additional USD 2 billion in financing to Bangladesh in this fiscal year to support critical reforms, flood response, better air quality and health.
World Bank Country Director Abdoulaye Seck pledged the assistance when he called on interim government's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka. He said the World Bank was committed to increasing lending to Bangladesh in this fiscal year to help the reform agenda of the interim government.
His remarks came days after the US Agency for International Development-Bangladesh on Sunday said it would provide USD 202.25 million in aid to Bangladesh.
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) selected Infosys to develop its next-generation digital platform as part of its DIVE (Digital Innovation and Value Enhancement) programme. This new platform will serve as an integrated end-to-end solution, enhancing customer services, business lifecycle management, and operational activities for sales intermediaries, while also offering a digital front-end for branch employees.
The DIVE programme aims to revolutionise LIC's digital infrastructure, transforming operations from customer onboarding to claims settlement. Siddhartha Mohanty, LIC's managing director and CEO, emphasised that the partnership with Infosys will help LIC evolve into a technology-driven organisation, enhancing its ability to offer comprehensive life insurance solutions and meet the instant service expectations of today's digitally connected customers.
The new platform will be modular, cloud-native, and designed to adapt to emerging technologies and products. It is expected to provide superior customer service, streamline lifecycle management for sales intermediaries, and offer a robust digital interface for branch employees.
West Bengal's Decades-Long Economic Decline
A working paper by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), authored by EAC-PM member Sanjeev Sanyal, highlights the relative economic performance of Indian states from 1960-61 to 2023-24. Titled "Relative Economic Performance of Indian States: 1960-61 to 2023-24," the paper reveals that West Bengal, once holding the third-largest share of the national GDP at 10.5% in 1960-61, has seen a consistent decline, now accounting for only 5.6% of India's GDP in 2023-24. The report notes that maritime states have generally outperformed others, with the exception of West Bengal.
17-Year-Old Indian Shuttler Anmol Kharb Wins First Singles International Title in Belgium
India's 17-year-old Anmol Kharb clinched her first international title in women's singles as she beat Denmark's Amalie Schulz in a hard-fought final in the Belgian International badminton tournament.
Anmol Kharb became the women's singles national badminton champion at the age of 16 and a year later, proved to be the driving force behind the Indian women's team bagging a historic gold medal at the 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships in Malaysia.
India Wins Asian Champions Trophy Hockey
India men's hockey team beat China 1-0 in the Asian Champions Trophy final and won the tournament. India, the 2024 Paris Olympic bronze medalist, remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.
It was a hard-fought win for India, who managed only a single goal in the 51st minute, thanks to a brilliant pass by skipper Harmanpreet off which Jugraj Singh scored the goal. This was the fifth Asian Champions Trophy title for India.
Women's T20 World Cup 2024: ICC Announces 134 per cent Increase in Prize Money for Winners
The International Cricket Council (ICC) will be paying $2.34 million to the winners of Women's T20 World Cup 2024 - an increment of 134 per cent from previous edition's $1 million prize money.
The overall prize money was also increased from last edition's $2.45 million to $7.95 million - an increase of 225%. The increment in prize money is part of the ICC's initiative of bringing women's cricket on par with men's cricket.
This is also the first time the prize money awarded to women cricketers will be equal to their men counterparts in the same event.
In an effort to encourage voter participation in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), J&K, launched the theme song 'Vote Ka Tyohar'.
The song, released by CEO, Pandurang K. Pole, is aimed at motivating voters across Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory to cast their votes in the Assembly Elections, which begin on September 18, 2024 across seven districts of both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions.
The theme song was produced by Rangyug, a renowned performing arts organization committed to promoting social change and self-realization through theater, as part of the SVEEP (Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation) Campaign and was choreographed by the students of Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government PG College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu.
India Opposition Leader Resigns as Delhi's Chief Minister
Arvind Kejriwal tendered his resignation as Delhi Chief Minister, a position that he held for over a decade. Kejriwal met Delhi Lieutenant Governor V. K. Saxena at his residence along with his cabinet ministers and handed in his papers.
Kejriwal spent five months in jail in connection with a now-scrapped alcohol sales policy. He has denied the allegations against him.
He has said that he will take up the post only if people re-elect his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the assembly elections scheduled for February next year (2025).
AAP made its poll debut in 2013 Delhi assembly elections and has governed the capital city since, focussing on welfare measures such as affordable electricity and water for residents.
India Hosts Buddhist Media Conclave
In a unique initiative, India hosted the 2nd International Buddhist Media Conclave 2024, inviting media organisations from Asia and beyond. The conclave was hosted by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) and was supported by India's Ministry of Culture. The idea behind the conference was to give a platform to international media that are focused on teaching of Buddha, that too in India, a country from where Buddhism originated.
As per IBC DG Abhijit Halder, the event witnessed an enthusiastic response from the media and that the IBC will organise its next conclave on a larger scale.
The event brought together media organisations from Japan, South Korea, Myanmar, Russia, and other countries which have been focusing on spreading the ideas of Buddhism. Participants held discussions on how the media can contribute to spreading Buddha's teachings and emphasised on Buddhism's core values that is the promotion of non-violence, tolerance, and inner peace.
Senior IPS Officer Amrit Mohan Appointed SSB Chief
Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from Odisha cadre, Amrit Mohan was appointed as the Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
Amrit Mohan is currently, working as Special Director General of Central Reserve Protection Force (CRPF).
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved Mohan's appointment to the post of Director General, SSB for a tenure up to the date of his superannuation on August 31, 2025.
Earlier, Dalit Singh Choudhary an IPS officer was the Director General of SSB.
A SSB Officer or Sashastra Seema Bal Officer is responsible for guarding India's borders with Nepal and Bhutan.
Originally set up in 1963, the Sashastra Seema Bal mainly deals with preventing cross-border crime and smuggling as well as other anti-national activities within the confines of the country and its territories.
Mohana Singh Becomes First Woman Fighter Pilot in LCA Tejas Fighter Fleet
Squadron Leader Mohana Singh became the first woman fighter pilot to join the elite 18 'Flying Bullets' squadron, operating India's indigenously 'Made in India' LCA Tejas fighter jet's squadron.
One of the first female fighter pilots of the country, Mohana Singh shattered glass ceilings once again. Her remarkable feat underscores the Indian Air Force's commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
The officer was part of the exercise, 'Tarang Shakti' in Jodhpur, where she was part of the historic flight by three Vice Chiefs of the three forces.
Sqn Ldr Mohana Singh is part of the first group of three women who became fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force.
Mohana Singh's other two female compatriots, Sqn Ldr Bhawna Kanth and Sqn Ldr Avni Chaturvedi are now flying the Su-30 MKI fighter jets in the western desert.
International Equal Pay Day, celebrated on September 18, represents the longstanding efforts towards the achievement of equal pay for work of equal value. It further builds on the United Nations' commitment to human rights and against all forms of discrimination, including discrimination against women and girls.
World Bamboo Day
Every year on September 18, people worldwide celebrate World Bamboo Day, highlighting the amasing qualities of this fast-growing plant and recognising its importance globally.
Bamboo, a giant grass, is known for being hard and hollow. It holds the record for being the world's fastest-growing land plant.
Kamesh Salam, the founder of World Bamboo Day, initiated the celebration during the 8th World Bamboo Congress in Bangkok in 2009. This day was declared on September 18, aligning with Royal Thai Forestry Day for added historical significance.
The theme for World Bamboo Day 2024 is 'Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation, and Design'.
Indian Women's Contributions across UAE Honoured at Indian Women Dubai Awards 2024
The Indian Women Dubai Awards 2024 took place in Dubai, honouring the achievements of Indian women who have contributed in various fields of excellence across the UAE. This event celebrated empowerment, resilience, and unity, showcasing the impact of women who are shaping the community.
The awards featured over 30 categories, including new recognitions for achievements in technology and innovation, alongside traditional categories celebrating artists, entrepreneurs, influencers, and healthcare professionals.
Indian Women in Dubai is a vibrant community platform created by Reema Mahajan to connect and empower Indian women in the UAE.
It serves as a space for members to collaborate, grow, and unlock their full potential while fostering a strong sense of unity and support.
Under the leadership of Reema Mahajan (Founder and CEO), IWD has grown into a powerhouse community with over 150,000 members, fostering an environment where women can thrive, network, and support each other.
Each year, the Indian Women Dubai Awards have set a new benchmark for celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Indian women in the UAE.
Aishwarya Rai Wins Best Actress at SIIMA 2024
At the South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) 2024, Aishwarya Rai Bachhan stood out as she received the Best Actress (critics) Award for her role in Maniratnam's epic "Ponniyin Selvan 2".
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan played dual roles in 'Ponniyin Selvan 2', portraying both Nandini and Mandakini Devi.
The two-part film, directed by Mani Ratnam, is an adaptation of the famous Tamil novel 'Ponniyin Selvan' by Kalki Krishnamoorthy.
In addition to Aishwarya's win, her co-star Chiyaan Vikram also received a massive cheer, securing the Best Actor (Tamil) award at the ceremony. 'Ponniyin Selvan 2', the sequel to the 2022 blockbuster, continues the saga with its grand storytelling.
Motilal Oswal Foundation Donates Rs. 130 crore to IIT Bombay
Motilal Oswal Foundation and IIT Bombay formed a partnership to develop modern academic infrastructure and create a new programme for financial markets at the institute, backed by a Rs. 130 crore pledge from the foundation.
This contribution, one of the largest corporate donations to an Indian educational institution, aims to establish cutting-edge academic infrastructure and launch innovative programmes in financial markets.
Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, expressed gratitude for the Motilal Oswal Foundation's contribution, noting how this partnership will boost IIT Bombay's infrastructure and enhance its stature in financial education.
IIT Madras Develops AI-powered Ultrasound Scanner for Sports Injury Diagnosis
IIT Madras researchers developed an innovative portable ultrasound scanner designed specifically for sports injury diagnosis and management.
This Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) device, created by the Centre of Excellence in Sports Science and Analytics (CESSA), could revolutionise how sports injuries are diagnosed, especially on the field, by providing immediate assessments.
The AI-powered POCUS scanner allows for real-time injury diagnosis during matches or training sessions. Medical professionals can quickly determine the extent of the injury and make crucial decisions on whether a player can continue to play.
The POCUS scanner has numerous advantages over traditional imaging techniques. Not only does it eliminate the use of radiation, but it also provides excellent resolution, making it safer and more efficient for sports-related injuries.
Angkor Wat Named Most Photogenic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Asia
Cambodia's Angkor Wat was recognised as the most photogenic UNESCO World Heritage site in Asia by Times Travel, as announced by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. This accolade was revealed through a post on his official Telegram channel, featuring Times of India's list of Asia's top ten most photogenic UNESCO sites.
The list includes notable landmarks such as: India: Taj Mahal and Hampi, China: Great Wall, Myanmar: Ancient city of Bagan, Indonesia: Borobudur, Vietnam: Ha Long Bay, Japan: Historic Monuments of Kyoto, Jordan: Petra and Philippines: Rice Terraces of the Cordilleras
These sites are celebrated for their cultural and visual appeal, offering exceptional inspiration for photographers.
Located in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap province, Angkor Wat is a prominent temple within a 401-square-kilometre park featuring 91 ancient temples built between the 9th and 13th centuries. It is Cambodia's most visited tourist destination, drawing 651,857 international visitors in the first eight months of 2024, reflecting a 30.7% increase from the previous year. Revenue from ticket sales for this period reached $30.3 million, marking a 31% year-on-year rise.
UP and Tripura CM Inaugurate Sidheshwari Temple
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha jointly inaugurated the newly built Sidheshwari Temple at Barkathal in Tripura. Yogi Adityanath also laid the foundation stone for the Ved Vidyalaya at Chitta Dham, Barakathal, Mohanpur, West Tripura.
Supreme Court Collegium Changes 3 Earlier Recommendations for High Court Chief Justice Appointments
The Supreme Court Collegium passed a new resolution making changes to its earlier recommendations for the appointment of Chief Justices of the High Courts.
The Collegium made changes regarding its earlier recommendations regarding Justice Suresh Kumar Kait (Delhi High Court), Justice G. S. Sandhawalia (Punjab and Haryana High Court) and Justice Tashi Rabstan (Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court).
These new recommendations were made by the Collegium in its resolution passed in supersession of its previous resolution passed on July 11.
Justice Suresh Kumar Kait is now recommended to be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. Earlier, he was recommended as the Chief Justice of J&K&L High Court.
Justice Tashi Rabstan, who was earlier proposed as the Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court, is now recommended to be appointed as the Chief Justice of his parent High Court (J&K&L High Court).
Justice G. S. Sandhawalia, who was earlier proposed as the Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court, is proposed to be appointed as the Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court after October 18, 2024 (the date of retirement of Justice Rajiv Shakhder, who was earlier recommended as the CJ of HP HC).
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