New Global Climate 'Loss and Damage' Fund Names First Director
The Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, aimed at assisting countries ravaged by climate-driven disasters, appointed Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, a Senegalese finance specialist and dual U.S. citizen, as its first Director.
The fund, created in 2022 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is administered by the World Bank and represents a significant win for developing nations who have long pushed for support against climate disasters. Wealthy nations had resisted this fund, fearing it would lead to compensation demands for their greenhouse gas emissions.
With Diong's appointment and the Philippines selected as the fund's headquarters, the $800 million pledged at COP28 in Dubai in 2023 can now be distributed. This progress is seen as critical ahead of the upcoming COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024, where further financial contributions will be sought from countries.
Sri Lanka President Dissanayake Picks Harini Amarasuriya as PM
Harini Amarasuriya was officially sworn in as Sri Lanka's new Prime Minister.
Amarasuriya, known for her work as a rights activist and university lecturer, has made significant contributions to social justice and education in Sri Lanka.
She is the first female Prime Minister since Sirimavo Bandaranaike took office in 1994 and the third woman to serve in this capacity in Sri Lanka's history.
In her new role, Amarasuriya has been assigned several crucial portfolios that include Justice, Education, Labour, Industries, Science and Technology, Health, and Investment.
Assam Records 86% Drop in Rhino Poaching Since 2016
Kaziranga National Park in Assam achieved a remarkable 86% reduction in rhino poaching since 2016. This success was highlighted by Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during World Rhino Day, showing that ongoing efforts to protect the one-horned rhinoceros are paying off.
Between 2000 and 2021, poachers killed 190 rhinos in Assam. The main reason for poaching is the illegal trade of rhino horns, which are highly valued in traditional medicine and as status symbols in some parts of the world. Protecting the one-horned rhino is not just about saving an animal—it's essential for preserving Assam's biodiversity.
FCRA Licence of International Cooperative Alliance Cancelled
The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licence of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) was cancelled by the Union Home Ministry for alleged rule violations. The ICA, established in 1895, is an apex body representing cooperatives worldwide and has over 1 billion members.
The MHA placed 10 foreign donors from Australia, America, and Europe on its watchlist, resulting in the Reserve Bank of India instructing banks not to clear funds without MHA permission. These donors work in fields like climate change, environment, and child rights.
Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Poised to Make History as Pilot of Axiom-4 Mission to the ISS
In a monumental step for India's space program, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will pilot the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2025.
The Ax-4 mission is the result of a bilateral agreement between India and the US. Over a year ago, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to the US.
It was announced that an Indian astronaut would travel to the ISS.
Following this, ISRO signed a space flight agreement with Axiom Space, an American provider of human spaceflight services.
In its First-ever Appearance, India Bags Bronze Medal in Asia Pacific Padel Cup
In its first-ever tournament appearance, also the first-ever competition of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, India's padel team finished third in the Asia Pacific Padel Cup in Bali, Indonesia.
Having lost the opportunity to make it to the final, India managed to defeat Malaysia 3-0 in the bronze medal match.
The tournament was won by Indonesia who beat Philippines in a thrilling gold medal match by 2-3. While Philippines had won against Indonesia in the group stage 1-4, the latter turned the tables in the final.
The other teams which participated in the tournament were China and Singapore.
Jeevan and Vijay Win Maiden Title
Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan and Vijay Sundar Prashanth clinched their maiden ATP title together, winning the Hangzhou Open men's doubles event, while Yuki Bhambri and his French partner Albano Olivetti finished runners-up at the Chengdu Open.
The unseeded Indian duo of Jeevan and Vijay scripted a remarkable comeback to defeat the unseeded German team of Constantin Frantzen and Hendrik Jebens 4-6 7-6(5) 10-7 in one hour and 49 minutes.
The 2024 Chengdu Open was a men's tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts. It was the sixth edition of the Chengdu Open and part of the ATP Tour 250 series of the 2024 ATP Tour. It took place at the Sichuan International Tennis Centre in Chengdu, China, from 18 to 24 September, 2024.
Kalikesh Singh Deo New President of National Rifle Association of India
Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo was elected president of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) after he beat his rival V. K. Dhall 36-21 in the polls held at the Constitution Club of India in Delhi. Kalikesh, a former MP from Odisha, was taking care of the day-to-day functioning of the NRAI after the position fell vacant last year (2023) following the resignation of Raninder Singh as per the government's National Sports Code (NSC).
President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates 16th ASOSAI Assembly
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 16th Assembly of the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) in New Delhi. This significant event marks the beginning of crucial discussions centred on the evolving role of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in promoting transparency and accountability.
A notable aspect of this year's assembly is the assumption of the ASOSAI chair by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, for the term 2024-2027. His leadership is anticipated to advance the organisation towards new horizons in public audit, especially in enhancing governance frameworks throughout Asia.
The assembly, hosted by the CAG of India, runs from September 24 to 27, welcoming over 200 delegates from 42 countries and international organisations. This diverse gathering underscores ASOSAI's collaborative nature. Delegates will engage in high-level discussions aimed at improving the effectiveness of public audits, accountability, and best practices in government operations.
Founded in 1979 with 11 member institutions, ASOSAI has expanded to encompass 48 Supreme Audit Institutions, operating as a vital regional group within the International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). The first ASOSAI Assembly and Governing Board meeting took place in New Delhi in May 1979, establishing a historic precedent that is revisited with this year's event.
Agriculture Ministry Holds National Conference on Implementing DPI
The Union Agriculture Ministry held the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) under the Digital Agriculture Mission.
The conference aimed to discuss the implementation of DPI in continuation of the Centre-State collaboration to integrate digital technologies in agriculture, focusing on implementation of components of the Digital Agriculture Mission such as Agri Stack, Krishi DSS, soil profile mapping and others to streamline service delivery and enhance efficiency of agricultural schemes.
Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi presented an overview of the Digital Agriculture Mission and the SCA scheme, highlighting the government's vision to revolutionise agriculture through technology enablement. This was followed by a presentation by Department of Land Resources Secretary Manoj Joshi, discussing the synergy between land reforms, Farmers' Registry and the role of states in implementing these reforms.
Kerala Once Again Tops Food Safety Ranking
Kerala for the second time in a row, topped the sixth State Food Safety Index (SFSI) 2024 released by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Tamil Nadu, which had slipped to the third position last year 2023), secured second position this time. In 2022, Tamil Nadu had topped the Index, replacing Gujarat at the number one slot. In 2022, Kerala secured the second position but took the top position last year.
Jammu and Kashmir got third position in the Index, released annually since 2019.
Gujarat secured fourth position in the Index, which Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda released.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Inaugurates Sainik School in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Sainik School in Jaipur, Rajasthan, as part of the Government's plan to establish 100 new Sainik Schools in partnership mode across India. This initiative aims to blend public and private sector contributions to enhance education for future generations and foster patriotism among youth. Deputy CM Diya Kumari and Col Rajyavardhan Rathore (Retd.) were also present at the event.
The new Sainik School aims to provide both academic and values-based education, focusing on discipline, patriotism, and courage. Rajnath Singh noted the holistic development offered by Sainik Schools, which prepares students not only for military careers but also for other professions where they can serve the nation.
The Sainik School in Jaipur was established in collaboration with Shri Bhawani Niketan Shiksha Samiti.
Iran Unveils All New and Powerful Suicide Drone 'Shahed-136B'
Amid the growing tension in the Middle-East, Iran for the first time has showcased the Shahed-136B drone and Jihad ballistic missile.
The Shahed-136B drone is an upgraded version of the Shahed-136, with new features and an operational range of more than 4,000 kilometres (2,500 miles).
It has an operational range of between 2,500 and 4,000 kilometres (depending on the source).
World Pharmacists Day is observed on September 25 every year. This day is celebrated to acknowledge the critical role that pharmacists play in the healthcare system. Pharmacists are known to be the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry, as they offer crucial services that guarantee the safe and efficient use of pharmaceuticals.
The history of World Pharmacists Day traces back to 2009, when it was established by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), the global federation of national organisations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists. The decision to celebrate World Pharmacists Day on September 25 was chosen to mark the anniversary of the founding of FIP in 1912.
The theme for World Pharmacists Day 2024 is 'Pharmacists: Meeting global health needs'. This theme underscores the vital role pharmacists play in addressing global health challenges, from ensuring access to medications to providing health education and support.
Vinod Bachchan Honoured at the House of Lords, UK Parliament
Renowned Bollywood producer Vinod Bachchan received the prestigious Global Prestige Award at the House of Lords, UK Parliament, recognising his significant contributions to the Indian film industry. The award ceremony was hosted by Lord Bellamy KC and Lord Rami Ranger CBE, a distinguished Member of Parliament.
Bachchan, known for producing hits such as Tanu Weds Manu, Zila Ghaziabad, Ginny Weds Sunny, and Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, was honoured for his influential role in bringing Indian cinema to global audiences. His films not only entertain millions but also promote Indian culture and traditions worldwide.
Mizoram Launches 'Bana Kaih' Scheme to Support Farmers and Entrepreneurs
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma officially launched the state's new flagship initiative, the Hand Holding Scheme (Bana Kaih), during a ceremony held at Vanapa Hall.
The scheme is designed to provide financial assistance and support to entrepreneurs and farmers across the state, promoting economic growth and self-sufficiency through a range of targeted programs.
To support the agricultural sector, the scheme introduces a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for four key crops: ginger, broom, turmeric, and Mizo Bird's Eye chili.
The scheme is also aimed at supporting the implementing departments tasked with ensuring its success.
Chief Minister's Special Category Scheme, which offers grant-in-aid up to Rs 1 lakh. This grant is specifically intended for individuals who may not be in a position to avail of loans but have small livelihood projects that could benefit from a financial boost.
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.
This PG 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.
Ashoka University to Establish Isaac Centre for Public Policy
Ashoka University announced the establishment of the Isaac Centre for Public Policy (ICPP), under which new public policy programmes will be launched. The centre will also commission advanced interdisciplinary research.
It has been established through a grant from the Ajit Isaac Foundation (AIF), a philanthropic organisation created by the Founder & Chairman of Quess Corp Ltd, Ajit Isaac and his wife, Sarah Isaac, who also serve as founders and trustees of Ashoka University.
The Centre will work and collaborate with leading public, private and non-profit sector stakeholders to identify research gaps linked with policy making and implementation. Leveraging experience of leading experts from within and beyond the university, it will engage with policy on ongoing basis, the institute stated.
SC Collegium Recommends Andhra HC Judge as CJ of Uttarakhand HC
The Supreme Court Collegium recommended appointment of Justice Narendar G, currently serving as a judge of Andhra Pradesh High Court, as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Uttarakhand.
The Collegium comprising Chief Justice of India D. Y. Chandrachud and Justices Sanjiv Khanna and B. R. Gavai noted that the current Chief Justice Uttarakhand Ritu Bahri is due for retirement on October 10, 2024, and therefore appointment to that office is required to be made.
The Supreme Court Collegium also recommended elevation of nine advocates as judges of the Bombay High Court.
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