Prime Minister Narendra Modi Attends the Sixth Quad Leaders' Summit in Wilmington, Delaware
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the sixth Quad Leaders' Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, hosted by the President of the United States of America, Biden, Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida also participated.
Modi thanked President Biden for hosting the Summit and for his personal commitment to strengthen the Quad as a force for global good.
He also stated that at a time when the world is ridden with tensions and conflicts, the coming together of Quad partners, with shared democratic ethos and values, is important for humanity.
The Leaders welcomed the next hosting of the Quad Leaders' Summit by India in 2025.
The foundation stone for India's first of its kind CO2-to-Methanol pilot plant with an overall capacity of 1.4 Tons Per Day (TPD) was unveiled virtually by Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, at Thermax Limited premises in Pune, Maharashtra.
The aim behind this is to demonstrate CO2 capture and utilisation (CCU) technologies, playing a crucial role in India's journey towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) and Thermax Ltd. will collaborate to develop the CCU technology. The plant with an overall capacity of 1.4 Tons Per Day (TPD) has been designed considering CO2 emissions from a diverse range of sources, including power plants, cement and steel plants, fertiliser plants, and refineries.
A team of faculty members from the Department of Chemical Engineering at IIT Delhi will carry out the project-aligned R&D work, complementing the pilot plant activities and engaging in R&D for future developments.
The project is anticipated to serve as a design template for many industrial applications, building capacity and preparing indigenous manufacturers to meet future demands for catalysts, absorbents, solvents, and other technology solutions at a commercial scale.
KVS Manian has officially taken charge as the Managing Director and CEO of Federal Bank, effective September 23, 2024. He succeeds Shyam Srinivasan, who retired after successfully leading the bank since 2010. Manian joins Federal Bank following a distinguished career at Kotak Mahindra Bank, where he worked for over 25 years and played a key role in its transformation from a non-banking financial company to one of India's leading private sector banks.
An electrical engineer from IIT (BHU) Varanasi, he also holds a postgraduate degree in Financial Management from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies and is a qualified Cost and Works Accountant.
Russian Cosmonauts Break Record for Longest ISS Flight
Russian cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub set a new record for the longest single mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), surpassing the previous record held by cosmonauts Sergei Prokopyev, Dmitry Petelin, and NASA astronaut Francisco Rubio, who spent 370 days onboard from September 2022 to September 2023. Kononenko and Chub arrived at the ISS on September 15, 2023, via the Soyuz MS-24 spacecraft and returned to Earth on the Soyuz MS-25 on September 23, 2024, totaling 374 days in space.
The previous record of 370 days, 21 hours, 22 minutes, and 16 seconds was set by Prokopyev, Petelin, and Rubio.
Odisha Swimmer Pratyasa Ray to Get Ekalabya Puraskar
Emerging swimmer Pratyasa Ray has been selected for the 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024 for her achievements in swimming. A proud moment for Odisha's sporting fraternity.
Pratyasa Ray, a promising talent in the field of swimming with a remarkable track record, has been selected for this year's award in recognition of her exceptional performances.
Born in Bargarh district of Odisha, Pratyasa will receive a cash prize of Rs 7 lakh, an increase from the previous Rs 5 lakh along with a citation at a ceremony.
Ekalabya Puraskar was instituted by charitable body IMPaCT (Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT) in 1993 and managed by IMFA, the leading ferro alloys producer in the country. It is now considered the most prestigious sports award in Odisha.
The award is given every year to young sportspersons of Odisha in recognition of their outstanding performance in the preceding two years.
India to Host World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit Early Next Year
The Indian government will host the inaugural World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) from February 5 to 9, 2025, to boost the country's media and entertainment industry and enhance its global influence. This will be the first global summit covering the entire media and entertainment spectrum.
WAVES aims to foster dialogue, innovation, and trade partnerships among key players in the media and entertainment industry. The summit will feature discussions on trends, challenges, and opportunities, especially as new technologies reshape the sector.
The Telangana government is backing the summit, highlighting its innovative ecosystem for media and entertainment. Additionally, the government is committed to combating piracy and supporting the growing gaming industry. This includes governmental initiatives to protect content creators and industry stakeholders.
Before the main event in 2025, the government is organising WAVES in Goa from November 20 to 25, 2024, with challenges under the 'Create in India Challenge – Season 1'. This platform will bring together finalists from 25 events for global exposure.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal Inaugurates Invest India's New Office in Singapore
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated Invest India's new office in Singapore. The office will serve as a dedicated point of contact for companies from the region looking to invest in India, fostering collaboration across sectors.
Invest India is the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India, established as a non-profit initiative under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
As part of the "Make in India" campaign, Invest India enables and supports investors in launching, operating, and expanding their businesses in India.
Invest India serves as a one-stop center created to attract and retain high- quality investments in the country.
This significant move reinforces India's commitment to deepening investment part partnerships and making it easier for global investors to engage with India.
ADB Funds Rs. 530 Crore Water Supply Schemes for 12 Cities in Tripura
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the 'Mukhyamantri Nagar Unnayan Prakalp,' a Rs. 530 crore water supply project funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), aiming to upgrade drinking water infrastructure in 12 cities. The project, expected to be completed in three years, will address water needs for over 75,000 families across the state.
The project will cover 12 cities: Udaipur, Amarpur, Belonia, Melaghar, Bishramganj, Khowai, Ranir Bazar, Mohanpur, Dharmanagar, Kailashhar, Kumarghat, and Ambassa. Seven of these are district headquarters.
The scheme includes laying 305 km of water pipelines, constructing 25 deep tubewells, 18 Iron Removal Plants, four water treatment plants, and 19 water reservoirs.
Lt. Gen. Asim Malik New DG of Pakistan's Spy Agency ISI
Lt. Gen. Muhammad Asim Malik was appointed as the new Director General of Pakistan's spy agency - Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Lt. Gen. Malik, currently serving as an adjutant general at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, will assume his new role on September 30, replacing the current DG Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum.
The ISI chief is appointed by the Prime Minister but as part of a tradition he executes this power in consultation with the army chief.
The post of ISI chief is considered one of the most important in the Pakistan Army, which has ruled the country for more than half of its 77-plus years of existence and has hitherto wielded considerable power in matters of security and foreign policy.
Rhea Singha from Gujarat Wins Miss Universe India 2024 Title
Rhea Singha, a 19-year-old model from Gujarat, was crowned Miss Universe India 2024 in Jaipur. She will represent India at the global Miss Universe competition in Mexico in November 2024.
Rhea (contestant #36) won the title after defeating 51 candidates for Miss Universe India title.
The judging panel for Miss Universe India 2024, alongside Urvashi Rautela, featured Nikhil Anand, Vietnamese celebrity Nguyen Quynh, fashion photographer Rian Fernandes, and entrepreneur Rajeev Shrivastava.
Pranjal Priya (#34) was named 1st Runner-Up, while Chhavi Verg (#16) took the 2nd Runner-Up spot. Sushmita Roy (#47) and Ruopfuzhano Whiso (#39) secured 3rd and 4th Runner-Up positions, respectively.
Every year, Antyodaya Diwas is celebrated on September 25th to honour the legacy of one of India's most renowned political thinkers and social reformers, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay. Antyodaya Diwas date marks his birth anniversary and is observed as a tribute to his philosophy of 'Antyodaya,' meaning the upliftment of the most marginalised sections of society.
It is a day of remembrance and celebration of his life and legacy and he was one of the most prominent figures in India's political history. He was a co-founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS) and a thinker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Upadhyaya is also known for his efforts to uplift the poor and less fortunate, and so his birth anniversary is celebrated on Antyodaya, which means 'rising of the last'.
World Bollywood Day
World Bollywood Day, observed annually on September 24, stands as a testament to the rich heritage and global influence of Indian cinema. This day serves as a unique platform for Bollywood enthusiasts and film industry professionals to come together and celebrate the art of cinema and its contributions to culture and society.
World Bollywood Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a global phenomenon that showcases the universal appeal of Indian cinema. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the neon-lit avenues of New York, Bollywood's influence stretches far and wide, touching the hearts of millions across diverse cultures and languages.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is set to host the prestigious 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards from March 7 to 9, 2025, at the JECC Sitapura. The announcement was made during a formal agreement signing ceremony at the iconic Albert Hall, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Rajasthan Tourism Commissioner V. P. Singh and IIFA Vice President Suresh Iyer, marking the beginning of preparations for this grand event.
The Rajasthan government has allocated a total budget of Rs. 100 crore for the event. This includes ₹50 crore from the state government, Rs. 20 crore from the Rajasthan Industrial and Investment Corporation (RIICO), and Rs. 30 crore from the tourism department. Officials believe this large-scale event will significantly benefit the state's tourism and cultural industries.
The 2025 IIFA Awards will introduce the inaugural IIFA Digital Awards, recognising achievements in digital entertainment, including films and OTT content. This new category reflects the growing impact of digital media in the entertainment industry.
Since their inception in 2000, the IIFA Awards have become a globally recognised platform for celebrating Indian cinema. With editions hosted in 14 countries and 18 cities, the 2025 edition in Jaipur will mark a significant milestone, celebrating 25 years of IIFA and the accomplishments of Indian cinema in the new millennium. The event will include performances by leading Bollywood celebrities and awards for the industry's finest.
Express Journalist Abhishek Angad Wins IIMCAA Award
The Indian Express journalist Abhishek Angad was named as a winner of the IIMCAA Awards 2024, conferred by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication Alumni Association (IIMCAA).
Angad won the 'Jury Special Mention' award in the 'Journalist of the Year' category. Angad is a Principal Correspondent at The Indian Express, covering the state of Jharkhand.
The Ayushman Bharat PM-Jay Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJ) scheme introduced by Prime Minister Narendra marked his 6th anniversary.
PM-JAY is the world's largest health insurance scheme fully financed by the government.
Launched in 2018, it offers a sum insured of Rs. 5 lakh per family for secondary care and tertiary care.
Health Benefit Packages covers surgery, medical and day care treatments, cost of medicines and diagnostics.
It is an entitlement-based scheme that targets the beneficiaries as identified by latest Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data.
The National Health Authority (NHA) has provided flexibility to States/UTs to use non- Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) beneficiary family databases with similar socio-economic profiles for tagging against the leftover (unauthenticated) SECC families.
The funding for the scheme is shared – 60:40 for all states and UTs with their own legislature.
90:10 in Northeast states and Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal and Uttarakhand and 100% Central funding for UTs without legislature.
IIM Sambalpur Becomes First IIM to Introduce AI in Classrooms as Faculty
IIM Sambalpur announced the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms, positioning itself as the first IIM in the country to integrate AI as faculty.
The announcement was made at an event to celebrate its 10th Foundation Day, marking a decade of innovation and excellence in management education.
During the event, Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, highlighted the significant role that AI will play in reshaping the learning environment.
"With AI, the role of teachers will shift from mere teaching to creating and facilitating learning experiences. This strategic move aims to enhance the quality of education and engage students in a more dynamic way.
IIM Lucknow, IIT Kanpur Partner to Offer PG Programme in Healthcare Management
The Indian Institute of Management Lucknow signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur to launch a joint postgraduate program in Healthcare Management. This collaboration aims to address the growing need for leadership in the healthcare industry by integrating management principles with advanced medical technology.
The agreement was signed by Professor Archana Shukla, Director, IIM Lucknow, and Professor Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur, in the presence of senior faculty members. Notable attendees from IIM Lucknow included Professor Kshitij Awasthi, Associate Professor.
The Postgraduate Programme in Healthcare Management will serve professionals from various fields, including healthcare workers and doctors in public hospitals. The course is designed to blend expertise in medical technology with business administration, empowering participants to spearhead advancements in healthcare delivery and innovation.
Laapataa Ladies: India's Official Entry for Oscars 2025
The Film Federation of India has officially announced that filmmaker Kiran Rao's "Laapataa Ladies" has been chosen as India's official entry in the Best Foreign Film Category for the Oscars 2025. This selection marks a significant milestone for the film and its creators, putting it on the global stage of cinema.
The selection process was rigorous and comprehensive, involving entries from across India:
Total entries: 22 films - 12 Hindi films, 6 Tamil films and 4 Malayalam films
The selection of "Laapataa Ladies" as India's Oscar entry is noteworthy for several reasons:
Fresh Perspective: The film brings a new voice to Indian cinema on the international stage.
Recognition of Independent Cinema: It highlights the growing importance of indie films in representing India globally.
Diverse Storytelling: The selection showcases India's rich tapestry of narratives beyond mainstream cinema.
Platform for New Talent: The film's fresh cast gets an opportunity for international recognition.
Streaming Impact: Demonstrates how digital platforms can amplify a film's reach and impact.