• India's Cruise Tourism Takes Off: The Indian government has recently launched the 'Cruise Bharat Mission' to position India as a global cruise tourism hub. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the mission at Mumbai port aboard the cruise ship 'Empress'. This initiative aims to attract more cruise tourists and boost the country's economy.

• Telangana Pioneers Women Entrepreneurship: Telangana has become the first state in India to establish a chapter of NITI Aayog's Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP). This platform empowers women entrepreneurs by providing them with essential resources, tools, and networking opportunities to scale their businesses.

• Kerala's Leap in Technology: Kerala has made significant strides in the technology sector with the inauguration of India's first supercapacitor manufacturing facility at Keltron Component Complex Limited (KCCL) in Kannur. This milestone underscores Kerala's commitment to technological advancement and innovation.

• India Honors Linguistic Diversity: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has recognized five new classical languages: Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali, and Prakrit. This decision underscores the government's dedication to preserving India's rich linguistic heritage and promoting regional languages.

• Maharashtra's Infrastructure Gets a Boost: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Maharashtra is set to revolutionize the state's infrastructure. He will inaugurate the Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Mumbai Metro Line 3, the city's first fully underground metro line. Additionally, he will launch several projects aimed at improving urban living standards and supporting the agricultural sector.

• India Joins Global Medical Device Regulation: India has taken a significant step towards international cooperation in medical device regulation by becoming an affiliate member of the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF) on October 3, 2024. This membership will enhance India's role in shaping global standards for medical devices.

• Black Panthers Spotted in Odisha: Forest officials in Odisha have discovered rare melanistic leopards, commonly known as black panthers, in three of the state's forest divisions during the "All Odisha Leopard Estimation" survey. This finding highlights the state's rich biodiversity.

• Assam Combats Child Marriage: The Assam government has launched the 'Nijut Moina' scheme to address the issue of child marriage. This initiative encourages girls to continue their education and delay marriage, contributing to the state's social and economic development.

• High-Sugar Diet Linked to Diabetes in India: A recent study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition has linked a diet high in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) to the rising prevalence of diabetes in India, a country already grappling with the highest number of diabetes cases globally.

• Bihar Gets New Tiger Reserve: The central government has approved the establishment of Bihar's second tiger reserve in Kaimur district, aimed at enhancing wildlife conservation efforts in the region.

• India-Maldives Partnership Deepens: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu met to strengthen bilateral ties and announced plans to establish a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, focusing on the Indian Ocean Region.

• India Eliminates Trachoma: The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended India for successfully eradicating trachoma as a public health problem, making it the third country in the Southeast Asia Region to achieve this milestone.

• India-Japan Lunar Mission: Following the success of Chandrayaan-3, India's National Space Commission has approved the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (Lupex), a collaborative effort with Japan to explore the Moon's resources, particularly water ice at the lunar south pole.

• Infrastructure Boost for Border Regions: The Indian government has allocated Rs. 4,406 crore for the construction of 2,280 km of roads in Rajasthan and Punjab. This infrastructure development aims to improve connectivity and development in border areas.

• Celebrating India's Maritime Heritage: The Indian government has approved the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat, to commemorate India's rich maritime history.

• India's Giant Eye on the Cosmos: The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE), Asia's largest imaging Cherenkov telescope, was inaugurated in Hanle, Ladakh. This state-of-the-art facility will enable India to delve deeper into the study of cosmic rays.

• The Challenge of Aging: Despite advancements in medicine, life expectancy is plateauing. To significantly extend lifespan, efforts must focus on combating the aging process itself, beyond treating specific diseases.

• Hizb-ut-Tahrir Declared Terrorist Organization: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has designated Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HuT) as a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

• Telangana Reviews SC Sub-Classification: The Telangana government has established a commission led by retired Justice Shameem Akhtar to study the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs) for equitable distribution of reservation benefits.

• India's Declining Bird Population: The Living Planet Report 2024 highlights India's significant decline in bird populations, particularly between 1992 and 2002. This issue underscores the need for urgent conservation measures.

• WHO Recognizes India's Vaccine Regulatory System: The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated India's vaccine regulatory system, recognizing its adherence to international standards. This recognition solidifies India's position as a global pharmaceutical hub.

• Digital Agriculture Takes Center Stage: The India Digital Agri Conference 2024 explored the potential of digital technologies to revolutionize Indian agriculture, empowering farmers with innovative tools and solutions.

• Early Warning System for Kerala: Following devastating floods and landslides in Wayanad district in July 2024, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences approved the installation of an X-band radar to enhance weather monitoring and early warning systems.

• Global Solar Energy Surge: The world witnessed a 74% increase in solar energy installations in 2023, driven by declining costs and supportive policies, as highlighted by IRENA and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

• Aadhaar Rules Tightened for NRIs and OCIs: New regulations have been introduced for Aadhaar enrollment, requiring Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to demonstrate a minimum physical presence of 182 days in India during the previous year.

• Air Pollution Alert in Delhi-NCR: The deteriorating air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has led to the activation of Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mitigate the impact of air pollution.

• Rising Cancer Burden in India and South Africa: A study predicts a significant increase in cancer cases and deaths in India and South Africa from 2022 to 2045, driven by longer life expectancies.

• India Struggles with Hunger: The Global Hunger Index 2024 ranks India 105th out of 127 countries, highlighting the country's serious hunger and malnutrition challenges.

• Digital Training for Government Employees: Dr. L. Murugan, the Union Minister, has initiated the creation of an iGOT Lab to provide online training and skill development opportunities for employees within the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

• India-Colombia Film Partnership: India and Colombia have signed an agreement to collaborate in the film industry, aiming to foster cultural exchange and promote co-production opportunities.

• Rail-Cum-Road Bridge in Varanasi: The Indian government has approved the construction of a rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga river in Varanasi, enhancing connectivity and transportation in the region.

• Curbing Greenwashing: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has introduced regulations to prevent companies from making false environmental claims, ensuring transparency and accountability in the market.

• Ayurveda Research Center in Kerala: A new Centre of Excellence in Ayurveda Research will be established at CSIR-NIIST in Kerala to scientifically validate Ayurvedic products and meet international standards.

• Kaziranga's Butterfly Diversity: Kaziranga National Park has been recognized as India's second-largest butterfly diversity hotspot, with 446 recorded species, underscoring its ecological significance.

• Boosting India's Carbon Market: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has launched guidelines to enhance the effectiveness of India's carbon market, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

• Fighting Online Scams: Meta, in collaboration with the Indian government, has launched the 'Scam se Bacho' campaign to educate the public about online scams and protect them from cyber fraud.

• Uttarakhand Bird Festival: The 8th Uttarakhand Bird Festival celebrated the region's rich avian diversity, with 95 bird species and 22 butterfly species recorded during the event.

• Oil Spill Preparedness in Tamil Nadu: Following an oil spill in Ennore, Tamil Nadu, the state government has implemented a comprehensive plan to address future oil spill incidents in vulnerable coastal districts.

• Andhra Pradesh's Population Policy: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced plans to introduce legislation promoting larger families to address population decline.

• Assam's Land Rights Initiative: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched Mission Basundhara 3.0 to provide land rights to indigenous communities in the state.

• Generative AI Boosts Productivity: Generative AI is transforming India's workforce by automating tasks and enhancing productivity, with potential benefits for manufacturing sectors.

• Strengthening TB Control Efforts: The Ministry of Health has increased financial support under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) to Rs. 1,000 per month, aiming to improve the nutrition and treatment adherence of TB patients.

• Andhra Pradesh's Population Policy: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced plans to introduce legislation encouraging larger families to address population decline.

• Mission Mausam for Weather Control: The Government of India launched Mission Mausam to enhance weather forecasting and control specific weather events like rainfall, hail, fog, and lightning.

• Bihar's First Dry Port: Bihar's Industry Minister Nitish Mishra inaugurated the state's first dry port near Patna, aiming to boost exports and improve logistics.

• Supreme Court Upholds Assam's Citizenship Framework: The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, affirming the legal basis for Assam's citizenship framework.

• Combating Spoofed Calls: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) launched the International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System to enhance digital safety and combat fraudulent calls.

• Railway Infrastructure Boost: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved two railway projects worth Rs. 6,

• Taiwan Seeks Global Talent: To address a looming labor shortage, Taiwan has introduced the Global Elite Card to attract skilled foreign workers. Additionally, the country is preparing to launch a Digital Nomad Visa to further bolster its workforce.

• WHO Approves New Mpox Test: The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved the Alinity m MPXV assay to enhance global access to Mpox testing, particularly in regions experiencing outbreaks.

• Southern Africa Faces Severe Drought: A severe drought, the worst in over a century, has gripped Southern Africa, leading to food shortages and prompting countries like Zimbabwe and Namibia to resort to wildlife culling.

• Rising Tensions Between China and Taiwan: China's "Anaconda Strategy" aims to isolate Taiwan and exert pressure through increased military presence. This has led to heightened tensions between the two sides.

• Saudi Arabia's Human Rights Challenge: Saudi Arabia's failed bid for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council highlights international concerns over its human rights record.

• India Concerned Over West Asia Tensions: India has expressed worry over the deteriorating security situation in West Asia, particularly after an incident involving UN peacekeepers injured in a clash with Israeli forces.

• US Boosts Israel's Defense: The US has approved the deployment of the THAAD missile defense system to Israel, aimed at strengthening its defense capabilities amid rising tensions with Iran.

• FBI's Crypto Sting Operation: The FBI has launched a cryptocurrency sting operation using an Ethereum-based token called NexFundAI to uncover illegal activities in the crypto market.

• China's Military Exercises Against Taiwan: China conducted large-scale military exercises around Taiwan in response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's stance on the island's independence.

• The Destructive Power of Dragon Drones: Dragon drones, armed with thermite, pose a significant threat due to thermite's ability to generate intense heat and melt through various materials.

• Italian Political Scandal: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is embroiled in a scandal involving illegal access to private bank accounts.

• Easier Subscription Cancellations in the US: The FTC's "click-to-cancel" rule aims to simplify the process of canceling subscriptions and memberships.

• Global Action Against Water Scarcity: The FAO's Rome Declaration on Water Scarcity in Agriculture seeks to address the growing challenge of water scarcity, particularly in agriculture, exacerbated by climate change.

• Pakistan's Constitutional Amendment: Pakistan's cabinet has approved the 26th Constitutional Amendment, aimed at reforming the judicial system and altering the balance of power.

• Google's Nuclear Energy Investment: Google has partnered with Kairos Power to invest in small modular reactors (SMRs), aiming to reduce its carbon footprint and support its growing energy needs.

• Egypt Declared Malaria-Free: Egypt has achieved a significant milestone by being certified malaria-free by the WHO, marking the end of a long battle against the disease.

• NASA's Artemis Mission: NASA's Artemis program is gearing up to return humans to the Moon by 2026, building on the success of the Artemis 1 mission.

• Russia's Shadow Fleet: The term "shadow fleet" refers to the network of tankers used to transport Russian oil, often in violation of sanctions. India has been implicated as a hub for this illicit trade.

• India-China Border Deal: India and China have reached a border agreement to disengage troops along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh.

• US Sanctions on Chinese Solar Imports: The US has imposed sanctions on solar panel imports from India, citing concerns about forced labor in China's Xinjiang region.

• SpaceX Crew-8 Mission Delayed: The SpaceX Crew-8 mission's return to Earth has been delayed due to severe weather conditions in Florida.

• China Tackles Obesity Crisis: China's National Health Commission has released guidelines to address the growing obesity problem, affecting over half of the adult population.

• Lion Poaching in Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park has reported a suspected case of lion poaching, highlighting the ongoing threat to wildlife in the region.

• Israeli Strike in Lebanon: Israel launched a missile strike on a building in Beirut, Lebanon, citing the presence of Hezbollah facilities.

• Global Action Against Antimicrobial Resistance: The UN General Assembly has recognized antimicrobial resistance as a major global health threat and called for a One Health approach to address it.

• Saudi Arabia's Megaproject: Saudi Arabia has initiated construction on the Mukaab, a massive building project in Riyadh, aiming to transform the city's skyline.

• US, Japan, and South Korea Collaborate with India: The three countries have announced a framework to support India's digital infrastructure development, involving financial institutions like DFC, JBIC, and Korea Eximbank.

• Reintroducing Clouded Leopards to Taiwan: Taiwan is exploring the possibility of reintroducing the clouded leopard, a species that has been extirpated from the island.

• Progress on Biodiversity Conservation: The Protected Planet Report 2024 assesses progress towards the 30×30 target, which aims to protect 30% of land and marine areas by 2030.

• Brazil's Distance from China's Belt and Road Initiative: Brazil has decided to opt out of China's Belt and Road Initiative, aligning with India's stance and seeking alternative partnerships.

   

  DEFENCE

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  India-Kazakhstan Military Exercise: The 8th edition of the joint military exercise, KAZIND-2024, commenced on September 30, 2024, in Auli, Uttarakhand, India. This annual exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations.

• EURONAVAL 2024: The upcoming EURONAVAL 2024, scheduled for November 4-7, 2024, in Paris, is expected to attract nearly 500 exhibitors, showcasing the latest advancements in naval defense technology.

• Taiwan Bolsters Defenses: Taiwan has received a shipment of 100 US-made Harpoon anti-ship missile systems, delivered to Kaohsiung Port on September 27, 2024. This acquisition is a significant step in enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities.

• India's Defense Technology Push: India's Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh, launched ADITI 2.0 and DISC 12 at DefConnect 4.0, initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and providing financial support to boost the country's defense technology ecosystem.

• Navi Mumbai Airport Progress: The Navi Mumbai International Airport achieved a milestone with the successful landing of an Indian Air Force C-295 aircraft on its runway. The airport is expected to commence operations in early 2025.

• Indian Army's Second Army Commander's Conference: The Second Army Commander's Conference 2024, held in Gangtok, Sikkim, brought together senior army leaders to discuss security challenges and strategize future plans.

• Indian Naval Deployment in Persian Gulf: INS Tir and ICGS Veera arrived in Manama, Bahrain, as part of a long-range training deployment, emphasizing India's commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the region.

• Launch of India's First MPV: L&T Shipyard launched the first Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) for the Indian Navy, named 'Samarthak', marking a significant milestone in Indian shipbuilding.

• India's Fourth Nuclear Submarine: India launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, S4, a more advanced version of INS Arihant, bolstering the country's naval capabilities.

• India-Oman Naval Exercise: The Indian Navy conducted the bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with the Royal Navy of Oman off the coast of Goa.

• Indian Army's Integrated Training Exercise: The Indian Army concluded the Swavlamban Shakti exercise, involving over 1,800 personnel and various military assets, to enhance combat capabilities.

• Sudarshan Chakra Corps Exercise: The Indian Army's Sudarshan Chakra Corps is undertaking the 'Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI' to improve combat readiness through the use of advanced technologies.

• Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise: The 31st edition of SIMBEX is underway in Visakhapatnam, involving the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy.

• Chanakya Defence Dialogue: The second edition of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, focusing on 'Drivers in Nation Building: Fuelling Growth Through Comprehensive Security,' will be held in New Delhi.

• Home Minister's Engagements: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is inaugurating the 14th All India Civil Defence and Home Guards conference and attending the 60th foundation day of the National Dairy Development Board.

• Launch of Indian Navy's ASW SWC: The Indian Navy launched 'Abhay', its seventh Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, at L&T Kattupalli.

• Saudi Arabia-Iran Military Exercises: Saudi Arabia and Iran, historical rivals, conducted joint military exercises in the Sea of Oman, reflecting a recent diplomatic thaw.

• India's C-295 Aircraft Production: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new plant in Vadodara for the production of C-295 aircraft for the Indian Air Force, marking a significant milestone in India's defense manufacturing.

• India's Growing Defense Exports to Armenia: India's defense exports to Armenia have surged, with the country emerging as a key market for Indian military hardware.

• Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar: The Indian Navy's Swavlamban - 2024 seminar aims to promote innovation and indigenization in naval technologies.

  BANKING AND ECONOMY

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  World Bank's Aid to Ukraine: The World Bank has established a special fund to provide financial assistance to Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Several countries, including the US, Canada, and Japan, are expected to contribute to this fund to support both military and humanitarian efforts.

• WHO Secures Additional Funding: The World Health Organization (WHO) has secured an additional $700 million in funding pledges for its 2025-2028 budget. This, along with the previous pledges from the EU and African Union, will help the WHO address global health challenges.

• EPFO Membership Surge: The Employee's Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) witnessed a significant increase in membership in August 2024, with a net addition of 18.53 lakh members, reflecting a 9.07% growth compared to the previous year. This is attributed to improved employment opportunities and increased awareness of employee benefits.

• RBI Expands Unauthorized Forex Trading List: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has added 13 new entities to its 'Alert List' of unauthorized forex trading platforms, bringing the total to 88. These entities are not authorized to deal in forex or operate electronic trading platforms.

• BoB's Festive Deposit Scheme: Bank of Baroda (BoB) has introduced the 'bob Utsav Deposit Scheme', offering higher interest rates to various customer segments during the festive season. This scheme provides attractive returns for general depositors, senior citizens, and super senior citizens.

• SBI Named Best Bank in India: State Bank of India (SBI) has been recognized as the Best Bank in India for 2024 by Global Finance Magazine. This award highlights SBI's commitment to exceptional services and financial inclusion.

• Paytm's UPI User Onboarding Resumes: Paytm has received approval from the NPCI to onboard new UPI users, lifting a nine-month ban imposed by the RBI. This decision is expected to boost Paytm's UPI transaction volumes.

• FSIB Recommends New PNB MD & CEO: The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended Ashok Chandra, currently Executive Director at Canara Bank, as the next Managing Director and CEO of Punjab National Bank.

• RBI Bans NBFCs for Excessive Interest Rates: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a ban on four NBFCs, including Navi Finserv, for charging exorbitant interest rates and violating regulatory pricing norms.

• Indian Banks Support African Businesses: State Bank of India (SBI) and India Exim Bank are actively supporting businesses in African countries by addressing the trade finance gap, as highlighted during the India Entrepreneurs Forum (IEF).

Science & Technology

• Ancient Makeup Discovery: Archaeologists have unearthed the world's oldest kohl stick in Turkey, pushing back the timeline of makeup use to over 8,000 years ago.

• India's AI Leap: BharatGen: India has launched BharatGen, a significant initiative in generative AI, to improve public services and citizen engagement through AI-powered solutions.

• New Eye Treatment Technique: IIT Madras researchers have developed innovative laser-based techniques to treat retinal tears and diabetic retinopathy, impacting millions of Indians.

• Biodiversity Discovery in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve: A recent survey in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve identified 33 reptiles and 36 amphibians, including potential new species, highlighting the region's rich biodiversity.

• Vast Water Reservoir Beneath Earth's Surface: Scientists have discovered a massive water reservoir deep beneath the Earth's surface, challenging our understanding of the planet's water cycle and geological processes.

• New Wasp Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh: Entomologists have identified a new species of potter wasp in Arunachal Pradesh, further emphasizing the region's rich biodiversity and the need for continued research.

• Refreezing the Arctic: Scientists are exploring innovative methods to refreeze the Arctic Sea by pumping seawater into frozen areas, aiming to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

• Reversible Neutering Vaccine for Dogs: Chilean scientists have developed a revolutionary reversible neutering vaccine for dogs, offering a non-surgical alternative to traditional sterilization.

• ISRO's Record-Breaking Satellite Launch: ISRO's PSLV-C37 mission successfully re-entered the Earth's atmosphere, marking a significant achievement after launching a record 104 satellites in a single mission.

• Understanding Cellular Genetics: Sascha Duttke's research focuses on understanding how cells utilize the same genetic material in diverse ways, potentially leading to new insights into gene regulation and cellular processes.

• Rwanda's Marburg Virus Outbreak: Rwanda is grappling with its first Marburg virus outbreak, impacting healthcare workers disproportionately and straining the country's healthcare system.

• Early Breast Cancer Detection Device: IIT Indore has developed a new device to facilitate early breast cancer detection, particularly for women in rural and remote areas.

• NASA's Europa Clipper Mission: NASA's Europa Clipper mission, set to launch in October 2024, aims to explore Jupiter's moon Europa for signs of extraterrestrial life.

• New Hope for Cancer Treatment: Scientists at IACS have identified a potential target, the TDP1 enzyme, to improve the treatment of drug-resistant cancers.

• India's Focus on Skill Development: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) in Mumbai, aiming to train individuals for Industry 4.0 and future job markets.

• Breakthrough in Photocatalysis: Researchers have developed a new catalyst to efficiently break down antibiotics like sulfamethoxazole, addressing environmental concerns.

• PROBA-3 Mission: The ESA-led PROBA-3 mission, involving European countries and ISRO, is set to launch in November 2024 to study solar eclipses and advance space research.

• Gut-Brain Connection in Parkinson's Disease: Recent studies suggest that gastrointestinal issues may play a crucial role in the development and progression of Parkinson's Disease.

• ESA's Moonlight Lunar Communications and Navigation Services: ESA's new program, LCNS, aims to establish essential infrastructure for future lunar missions.

• Innovative Road Safety Sensor: Researchers at CeNS have developed a pressure-sensing and energy-generating material for road safety sensors, enhancing safety at accident-prone curves.

• Smart Insulin for Diabetes Treatment: Scientists have developed a smart insulin that can respond to real-time blood sugar changes, offering a potential breakthrough in diabetes management.

• ISRO's Space Docking Experiment: ISRO has acquired two 400kg satellites for the SPADEX mission, which aims to demonstrate satellite docking technology in space.

• Depression's Impact on Brain Connectivity: A new study reveals that depression alters brain communication patterns, even in the absence of symptoms, and can predict future depression risk.

• Butterfly Conservation Milestone: Researchers in the Nilgiris have documented the Nilgiri tit butterfly using a terrestrial orchid as a host plant for the first time in India, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.

• New Orchid Species Discovered in Tripura: A new orchid species, Coelogyne tripurensis, has been identified in Jampui Hills, Tripura, expanding the region's biodiversity.

• Pink Cocaine and Its Dangers: Pink cocaine, a dangerous drug cocktail, has gained notoriety, with recent incidents highlighting its potential risks.

• New Snake Species Discovered in Western Himalayas: A new snake species, Anguiculus dicaprioi, has been discovered in the Western Himalayas, named in honor of Leonardo DiCaprio.

• E. coli Outbreak in the US: An E. coli outbreak linked to contaminated food has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with this bacterium.

• Successful Breeding of Great Indian Bustard: India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation by successfully breeding a great Indian bustard through artificial insemination.

• Giant Salmon Carp Resurgence: The discovery of the giant salmon carp in the Mekong River offers hope for the survival of this critically endangered species.

• Semaglutide and Alzheimer's Disease: Studies suggest that semaglutide, used in diabetes and weight loss medications, may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

• Sarvam-1: India's New Language Model: Sarvam AI has launched Sarvam-1, an open-source language model supporting ten Indian languages, contributing to India's AI landscape.

• Nemaline Myopathy Awareness: Nemaline myopathy is a rare muscle disorder affecting movement, requiring awareness and early intervention for better support and management.

• Breakthrough in Alzheimer's Treatment: Scientists at Agharkar Research Institute have developed non-toxic molecules that could potentially revolutionize Alzheimer's disease treatment.

AWARDS

• Global Recognition for Conservation: Vera Voronova from Kazakhstan and Ysabel Agustina Calderón Carlos from Peru were honored with the MIDORI Prize for their outstanding contributions to conservation and sustainability.

• New Air Force Chief: Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh assumed the role of Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Indian Air Force, taking charge of the country's air defense.

• Mithun Chakraborty Honored: Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest film honor, recognizing his significant contributions to Indian cinema.

• Nobel Prize in Medicine: Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun were awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their groundbreaking discoveries in microRNA and its role in gene regulation.

• New ISI Chief in Pakistan: Lt. Gen. Muhammad Asim Malik was appointed as the new Director General of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

• Indian Neuroscientist Elected to IBRO Leadership: Professor Shubha Tole was elected president-elect of the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO), making history as the first president-elect from a developing country.

• New Indian Ambassador to Germany: Ajit Vinayak Gupte was appointed as India's next Ambassador to Germany, succeeding his current role as Ambassador to Egypt.

• Anubhav Platform for Retired Government Employees: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'Anubhav' platform to facilitate knowledge sharing between retiring and retired government employees.

• New Indian Ambassador to France: Sanjeev Kumar Singla was appointed as India's new Ambassador to France, taking over from his previous role as Ambassador to Israel.

• Nobel Prize in Physics: John J. Hopfield and Geoffrey E. Hinton were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their pioneering work in machine learning and artificial neural networks.

• Ratan Tata Passes Away: Renowned Indian industrialist Ratan Tata, former chairman of the Tata Group, passed away at the age of 86.

• Nobel Prize in Chemistry: Demis Hassabis, John M. Jumper, and David Baker were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their groundbreaking work in protein structure prediction and design.

• Nobel Prize in Literature: South Korean author Han Kang was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for her powerful and evocative writing.

• Nobel Peace Prize: Nihon Hidankyo, a group of atomic bomb survivors, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their tireless efforts to promote nuclear disarmament and peace.

• New Director General of Indian Coast Guard: S. Paramesh was appointed as the new Director General of the Indian Coast Guard.

• India Heads WHO South-East Asia Region: J. P. Nadda, India's Health Minister, was elected as the Chairperson of the 77th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region.

• Haryana Re-elects BJP: Nayab Singh Saini was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Haryana, marking the BJP's third consecutive term in power.

• New ICC President: Abhyuday Jindal was appointed as the new President of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

• Modi's Development Initiatives in Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated development projects worth over Rs. 6,100 crore in Varanasi, focusing on infrastructure and cultural heritage.

• National Water Awards 2023: The 5th National Water Awards 2023 will be presented by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

• Vietnam Elects New President: Vietnam elected Luong Cuong as its new president, marking the fourth president in 18 months.

• Commemorating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Indian government announced a two-year commemoration of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary.

• New Chief Justice of India: Justice Sanjiv Khanna was appointed as the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding D. Y. Chandrachud.

• Global Anti-Racism Award for Nepalese Activist: Urmila Chaudhary from Nepal received the Global Anti-Racism Championship Award for her commitment to racial equity and human rights.

• New NAFED MD Appointed: Deepak Agarwal was appointed as the regular Managing Director of NAFED.

• Conservation Leadership Award for Indian Scientist: Bibhab Kumar Talukdar received the Harry Messel Award for his outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation.

Government Schemes

• FCI's Digital Transformation: The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is undergoing a digital transformation with the launch of the ANNA DARPAN system, aiming to streamline its supply chain management processes.

• Government's Focus on Tribal Welfare: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) to improve the living conditions of tribal communities across India.

• Global Biodiversity Summit: COP16, the upcoming biodiversity conference, will assess global progress towards the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Concerns remain as only 10% of countries have met their biodiversity protection commitments.

• Extension of Samarth Scheme: The Samarth Scheme, aimed at skill development in the textile sector, has been extended for two more years with an allocation of Rs. 495 crore.

• eShram One-Stop Solution: The Government of India launched the 'eShram-One Stop Solution' to enhance access to government schemes for unorganized workers.

• PM-YASASVI Scholarship Scheme: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the PM-YASASVI Scholarship Scheme to support the education of students from OBC, EBC, and DNT communities.

• ULPIN for Rural Land Parcels: Approximately 30% of rural land parcels in India have been assigned a unique identification number, ULPIN, to improve land record management.

• Ayurveda Day and Health Initiatives: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched health initiatives worth nearly Rs. 12,850 crore on Ayurveda Day, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantri.

Sports

• India to Host First Kho Kho World Cup: India has been selected to host the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in 2025, showcasing the global appeal of this traditional Indian sport.

• New Zealand's Historic T20 World Cup Win: Led by Sophie Devine, the New Zealand women's cricket team clinched their first-ever T20 World Cup title, defeating South Africa in the final.

• Arjun Erigaisi's Chess Brilliance: Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi secured the WR Chess Masters title, edging closer to the coveted 2800 Elo rating.

• Rani Rampal Retires: Iconic Indian hockey player Rani Rampal announced her retirement, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring performances and achievements.

• India to Host International Esports Championship: India is set to host the first International Esports Masters in March 2025, showcasing the country's growing prominence in the esports industry.

• Rabada's Test Cricket Milestone: South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada became the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets, surpassing legendary bowlers like Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn.

• Zimbabwe's Record-Breaking T20 Innings: Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza smashed a record-breaking 133 runs off 43 balls, leading his team to a historic total of 344/4 in a T20 International.

• Neetu David Inducted into ICC Hall of Fame: Former Indian cricketer Neetu David was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, becoming the second Indian woman to receive this honor.

• Bala Devi's Historic Milestone: Indian footballer Bala Devi scripted history by scoring her 50th international goal.

• Chirag Chikkara's World Championship Glory: Indian wrestler Chirag Chikkara clinched the Under-23 World Championship title, contributing to India's impressive medal tally.

• India's Strong Showing at Asian Arm Wrestling Cup: The Indian team secured a commendable second-place finish at the Asian Arm Wrestling Cup 2024.

   

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