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NATIONAL AFFAIRS
DPIIT & HDFC Bank Sign MoU to Strengthen India’s Startup Ecosystem
In December 2024, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mumbai(Maharashtra) based HDFC Bank Limited, India’s largest private sector bank by assets, to provide startups with world-class banking and financial services.
i.The partnership aims to strengthen the startup ecosystem by providing mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building programs to encourage innovation and growth.
ii.The DPIIT also signed an MoU with Tally Solutions Private Limited, a software company based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, to digitally empower startups in the manufacturing sector.
About the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
The DPIIT is a central government department under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I). It is set to launch Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative, under the Startup India program to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem.
Secretary – Amardeep Sing Bhatia
Headquarters – New Delhi
Established – 1995
>> Read Full News
NITI Aayog releases Report “S.A.F.E. Accommodation: Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth”
On December 19 2024, National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi released a report titled “Site Adjacent Factory Employee(SAFE) Accommodation: Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth.” The report highlights the importance of secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient housing solutions for industrial workers to support India’s manufacturing growth.
- The initiative was launched as part of the Union Budget 2024-25, with the aim of addressing worker accommodation challenges in industrial zones across India.
- It will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support and contributions from anchor industries which will lead to enhanced productivity, lower attrition and increased investment in the manufacturing sector.
About National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog:
Chairperson- PM Narendra Modi
Headquarters- New Delhi (Delhi)
Established- January 1, 2015
>> Read Full News
AR Government and IA Signs MoA for Management of ‘Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valor’
In December 2024, the Arunachal Pradesh (AR) government signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Army (IA) for the management of the ‘Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valor’ in Tawang, AR.
- The MoA was formalized by Kangki Darang, Tawang Deputy Commissioner and Brigadier V S Rajput of the 190 Mountain Brigade in the presence of Chief Minister(CM) of AR, Pema Khandu.
i.This initiative aims to ensure the museum remains a prominent historical site, reflecting the region’s strategic significance in India’s territorial integrity.
ii.This collaboration highlights the importance of preserving the history of Major Bob Khathing’s contribution to the integration of Tawang into India in 1951, a key move directed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Zscaler ThreatLabz Report : India Tops Global List for Mobile Malware Attacks 
According to the “Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Mobile, IoT, and OT Threat Report” by Zscaler Inc., headquartered in United States America(USA), India tops the list globally in mobile malware attacks, accounting for 28 % of worldwide attacks. This marks a significant jump from its previous 3rd place ranking in 2023. India surpasses the United States (US) at 27.3% and Canada at 15.9%.
- A dataset covering over 20 billion threat-related mobile transactions and associated cyber threats, spanning from June 2023 to May 2024.
- The United States remains the top target of Internet of Things (IoT) attacks, experiencing 81% of overall attacks, followed by Singapore, the UK, Germany, and Canada.
- Manufacturing experienced the highest volume of IoT attacks, accounting for 36% of all IoT malware blocks observed, followed by transportation (14%) and food, beverage & tobacco (11%). Meanwhile, the technology and education sectors were most targeted by mobile threats.
Overview of the Cyber Threat
ThreatLabz reported a 111% rise in mobile spyware and a 29% increase in banking malware, indicating a sharp rise in financially-motivated cyber-attacks. The report also highlighted a 45% rise in IoT (Internet of Things) malware attacks
- Indian postal services are now targets for cybercriminals using SMS phishing to steal credit card details from mobile users.
Other Highlights of Report
i.Enterprises must adopt a zero-trust security framework to protect critical operations and respond to increasing threats. A significant number of these threats have the ability to bypass Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
ii.Legacy systems and unprotected Internet of Things (IoT) and Operational Technology (OT) environments are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals.
iii.Nearly 50% of mobile attacks are trojans, a type of malicious software (malware). Over 200 malicious applications were discovered on Google Play, and there was a 45% rise in IoT malware transactions, highlighting the expanding scale of cyber threats.
- This includes Anatsa, a known Android banking malware that uses PDF and QR code readers to distribute malware.
BANKING & FINANCE
India and ADB signs USD 350 million loan agreement to expand manufacturing sector
In December 2024, the Government of India (GoI) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a USD 350 million policy-based loan agreement under the second subprogramme of Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) programme to improve and modernize India’s logistics sector.
- The loan agreement was formalised with the involvement of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA),Ministry of Finance (MoF); Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry(MoC&I) and the ADB.
Key Points:
i.SMILE program is a Programmatic policy-Based Loan (PBL), which comprises two subprograms and aims to expand India’s manufacturing sector and improve the resilience of its supply chains.
ii.The program develops a strong policy framework to enhance logistics efficiency by strengthening institutional support for multimodal infrastructure development at national, state, and city levels.
iii. This change will drive sustainable economic growth by lowering expenses, increasing efficiency, promoting gender inclusion, and creating job opportunities.
Maharashtra and ADB signed MoU of Rs 1,527 crore for Nagpur Metro Rail Project Phase-II
The Maharashtra government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ADB for financial assistance of Rs 1,527 crore(USD 200 million) for Phase II of the Nagpur Metro project.
- Shravan Hardikar, Managing Director (MD) of Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MAHA-METRO) and Mio Oka, country director of the ADB signed the MoU in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis in the cabinet hall of the Vidhan Bhavan, Nagpur, Maharashtra.
Key Points:
i.ADB and the European Investment Bank (EIB) would provide a total of Rs 3,586 crore for the Nagpur Metro Rail Project Phase-II. Of the total funding, the ADB will provide Rs 1,527 crore.
- MahaMetro will receive this funding in Japanese Yen, which will result in a lower interest rate.
ii.The loan amount will be made available to MahaMetro through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
iii.This project will cover a distance of 43.8 kilometer(km), comprising four routes: 18.5 km between Khapri and MIDC ESR, 13 km from Automotive Square to Kanhan River, 5.6 km from Prajapati Nagar to Transport Nagar, and 6.7 km from Lokmanya Nagar to Hingna.
Note: The GoI and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) also signed a USD 42 million loan agreement aimed at providing coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Nasscom and DIFC Signed MoU to Enhance Cross-Border Tech Innovation
Noida(Uttar Pradesh) based National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cross-border collaboration in fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and innovation.
- The agreement was signed in the presence of Rajesh Nambiar, President of NASSCOM, and Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DIFC Authority.
i.The partnership provides over 3000 NASSCOM member companies unique access to DIFC’s Innovation Hub, Dubai AI Campus, and its wide network of leading companies that are driving innovation in the financial industry.
ii.It plans to organize activities like webinars, roundtables, roadshows, and networking events to provide opportunities for sharing knowledge, growing businesses, and working together on innovative projects.
Note: DIFC is the international financial hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), covering 77 countries and housing 6150 active registered companies.
TCS Inks Deal with Bank of Bhutan to Modernize Digital Core
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) made a strategic partnership with the Bank of Bhutan, the largest commercial bank in Bhutan, to modernize the bank’s digital core for enhanced customer service.
- TCS will implement its TCS BaNCS Global Banking Platform to help the bank optimize operations and provide various public services within the digital ecosystem of the country.
i.The platform will provide the bank with access to a wide range of components across the banking and payments sector, including customer deposits, loan management, retail services, trade finance, pricing, and more.
ii.TCS has been a technology partner for the Bank of Bhutan, since 2016.
About Bank of Bhutan (BoB)
The Bank of Bhutan (BoB) is a public sector commercial bank in Bhutan. It is the first bank in the country.
Chairman – Karma Yonten
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)- Dorji Kadin
Headquarters –Thimphu, Bhutan
Founded – 1968
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
ESIC Bagged Four Awards at RSSF Asia-Pacific in Saudi Arabia
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), statutory social security body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, has bagged four awards at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- The RSSF Asia-Pacific was organized by the International Social Security Association (ISSA).
- ESIC has been awarded one certificate of merit with special mention from the jury for its mobile application (Ask An Appointment – AAA+) and three certificates of merit for Occupational Accident and Disease, Sustainable Investment and System Resilience.
- The awards were received by Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, Director General, ESIC on behalf of the corporation.
The ESIC ‘Ask an Appointment’ (AAA+) mobile app, available on both Android and iOS, caters to insured individuals, beneficiaries, staff, and ESI pensioners. It supports 8 languages, including English, Hindi, and six regional languages.
About Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is one of the two main statutory social security bodies under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, the other being the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
- The Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948, was India’s first major social security law for workers, passed by the Parliament.
- The fund is managed by the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) according to rules and regulations stipulated in the ESI Act 1948.
- Implemented in 1952: The scheme was officially launched on 24th February 1952 Prime Minister Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru. This day is now celebrated as ESIC Day.
About The International Social Security Association (ISSA)
The International Social Security Association was founded under the auspices of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Founded in – 1927
Secretary General – Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano
Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland.
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
Eurogrip Tyres announces M S Dhoni as Brand Ambassador to Empower Riders
In December 2024, Eurogrip Tyres, India’s leading brand for 2, 3-wheeler and off-highway tyres announced legendary cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni as its new Brand Ambassador.
- MS Dhoni, known for his dependability, performance and passion for riding, aligns with Eurogrip Tyres’ vision of providing riders with control and confidence on every journey.
i.This partnership aims to enhance the brand’s presence and appeal to motorcycle enthusiasts.
ii.TVS Srichakra Limited(TSL), part of TVS Mobility Group, is the manufacturer of Eurogrip, TVS Eurogrip and TVS Tyres, was established in 1982. It was headquartered in Chennai(Tamil Nadu, TN).
Pat Gelsinger Retired as CEO of Intel Corporation
Pat Gelsinger, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Intel Corporation (INTC), headquartered in California, United States of America (USA), retired after a distinguished tenure spanning over four decades. His retirement became effective on December 1, 2024, as he stepped down from both his executive role and the board of directors.
- He was replaced by David Zinsner, Executive Vice President (VP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Michelle Johnston (MJ) Holthaus, head of the newly created Intel Products group, as interim Co-Chief Executive Officers (CEOs).
- Additionally, Frank D. Yeary, the independent chair of Intel’s board, will serve as interim executive chair.
i.Pat Gelsinger’s journey with Intel began in 1979, where he rose to become the company’s first Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
ii.Over the years, he made significant contributions to the company, including co-authoring a book on programming the 80386 microprocessor and serving as the lead architect for the 4th generation 80486 processor, introduced in 1989.
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS
CCI Approved Proposal of Temasek’s Ramon to Buy Stake in Speed JVco.
In December 2024, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposal of Ramon Investments Private Limited, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore based investment company Temasek Holdings Private Limited (Temasek), to buy a certain stake of Speed JVco S.à r.l.
- In this proposed arrangement, Speed JVco S.à r.l. will be the target company, which provides visa outsourcing and related services like: offering visa application and consular services to governments and diplomatic missions, among others and Ramon Investments Private Limited will be the acquirer, which is an investment company and deals with only holding investments.
- The deals beyond a certain threshold require approval from the regulator, which keeps a tab on unfair business practices and promotes fair competition in the marketplace.
CCI Approved UltraTech Cement Limited’s Acquisition of the India Cements Limited
In December 2024, CCI has approved the proposal of Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based UltraTech Cement Limited, a flagship company of Aditya Birla Group to acquire majority stake of Chennai (Tamil Nadu, TN)-based India Cements Limited (ICL), a public listed company in India and operates both core and non-core businesses.
- In this proposed arrangement, UltraTech (Acquirer), a public listed company in India, which works primarily in the business of the manufacture and sale of grey cement, white cement, and building products in India, will acquire 32.72% of the paid-up equity share capital of ICL (Target) from the promoters and members of the promoter group of India Cements and Sri Saradha Logistics Private Limited worth Rs 3,954 crore.
- CCI has also approved the proposal of UltraTech to acquire another 26% of the paid-up equity share capital of ICL from its stakeholders through an open offer worth Rs 3,142.35 crore.
Recent Related News:
On October 29 2024, CCI has approved the proposal of Fortis Healthcare Limited (FHL), a multi-specialty hospital chain in India, to acquire an additional 31.52% stake in Agilus Diagnostics Limited (Agilus).
- Following the transaction, the shareholding of FHL in Agilus will increase from current 57.68% to 89.2%.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
ISRO Commences HLVM3-G1 Launch Campaign for Gaganyaan-G1 Uncrewed Mission
On December 18 2024, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) commenced the launch campaign of Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3-G1)/Orbital Module (OM-1) for the Gaganyaan-G1 uncrewed mission at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh (AP). The mission aims to achieve the country’s 1st crewed spaceflight and the launch began with the integration of the S200 motor segments.
- The mission’s preparation includes assembling control systems, avionics and Crew Escape System elements at SDSC and the integration of the Crew Module at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- The launch campaign of the HLVM3-G1 also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-X/CARE) which took place on December 18, 2014.
Key Points:
i.HLVM3, a modified version of the LVM3 was designed with enhanced reliability and safety features for human spaceflight.
ii.The Orbital Module (OM) level integration and tests will take place subsequently at U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), formerly known as ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Specifications of HLVM3:
- HLVM3 is a large, three-stage launch vehicle with a height of 53 meters (m) and a weight of 640 tonnes (t).
- It has the capability to carry payloads of up to 10 tonnes into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- The crew module is designed for the Gaganyaan mission, incorporating multiple redundancies and enhanced safety features to ensure the safety of astronauts.
- The system is engineered to operate under the most extreme conditions of human spaceflight, providing reliable performance during the mission.
About Gaganyaan mission:
i.The name Gaganyaan has its roots in Sanskrit translating to ‘sky and vehicle’ and the primary objective of this mission is to launch a team of astronauts into space, where they will travel at an altitude of 400 km above Earth in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for a three-day expedition before returning by landing in the Indian Ocean.
ii.Under the Gaganyaan programme, ISRO will carry out 3 uncrewed space missions and 1 crewed mission.
- The uncrewed flight will provide critical data for crew safety, vehicle performance and system integration.
iii.The 1st uncrewed mission is scheduled to take place in 2024-25 and the 1st crewed mission is scheduled in 2025-27.
iv.The Gaganyaan program strengthens India’s self-reliance in launching heavier payloads including the ambitious Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
About Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO):
ISRO is one of the six largest space agencies in the world.
Chairman- Dr. Sreedhara Panicker Somanath
Headquarters- Bengaluru, Karnataka
Establishment– August 15,1969
EU Unveils Euro 10 Billion IRIS² Satellite Network
On December 19 2024, the European Union(EU) introduced the Euro 10 billion (USD 11 billion) ‘Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite(IRIS²) space program’ initiative, aimed at deploying a network of 290 satellites in low and medium Earth orbits. The project was developed with the collaboration of Space Consortium for a Resilient, Interconnected and Secure Europe (SpaceRISE).
- The constellation will comprise of 264 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 18 Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites and is expected to be in service in 2030.
- The full deployment of the satellite network is expected to unfold over a 12-year period.
Signatories: An agreement was signed between SpaceRISE, a consortium made up of Eutelsat, Hispasat, and SES, the European Commission (EC) and the European Space Agency (ESA) during a ceremony at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels (Belgium).
About European Union:
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states in Europe:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden
Headquarters- Brussels, Belgium
Established – 1993
>> Read Full News
US Successfully Tested Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon ‘Dark Eagle’
In December 2024, the United States (US) Army, in collaboration with the US Navy, successfully test-fired its Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), also known as ‘Dark Eagle’ at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, United States of America (USA). The launch was the 2nd successful end-to-end flight of the weapon’s All Up Round (AUR) in 2024 using the LRHW’s trailer based launcher system.
- This event was the 1st live-fire demonstration of the system, involving both a Battery Operations Center and a Transporter Erector Launcher in the Pentagon’s hypersonic missile development program.
- The aim of this initiative is to strengthen the USA’s defence capabilities, particularly in strategic regions like the South China Sea.
About LRHW:
i.The Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) is a cutting-edge hypersonic missile developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation and Northrop Grumman Corporation.
ii.The missile utilizes a two-stage rocket booster to carry the Navy’s Common Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB) to speeds exceeding Mach 5(761 meter per hour, mph).
- It is designed to counter advanced anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capabilities, especially those employed by China in the Pacific region.
- With a range of 1,725 miles, the Dark Eagle missile can bypass long-range weapon systems that threaten US operations, particularly in regions like the South China Sea.
iii.Observational data and specialized aircraft, such as National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA’s) WB-57 and the Missile Defence Agency’s N551HA, closely monitored the event, providing essential data for validation.
Key Components:
i.The LRHW program is an integral part of the US military’s broader hypersonic missile initiatives.
- The system is designed for deployment on both the US Army’s truck-mounted launchers and the US Navy’s Zumwalt-class stealth destroyers and future Block V Virginia-class submarines.
- These weapons will enhance both surface and subsurface naval capabilities.
ii.The US Army is set to deploy the first LRHW battery by fiscal year 2025.
Points to Note:
i.China has earlier deployed its DF-ZF hypersonic glide vehicle, designed for anti-ship missions and carried by the DF-17 ballistic missile.
ii.Russia has placed its nuclear-capable Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle into service, launched atop the RS-28 Sarmat Intercontinental Ballistic Missile(ICBM).
NASA Discovers Exoplanet TOI-3261 b Using TESS
A team of scientists at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), headquartered in Washington, D.C., the United States of America (USA), has discovered an intriguing exoplanet named TOI-3261 b using the NASA’s space telescope Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite(TESS).
- TOI-3261 b is a Neptune-like exoplanet orbiting a K-type star. With a mass of 30.3 Earths, it completes one orbit of its star in just 0.9 days and is located 0.01714 Astronomical Unit (AU) away from the star.
i.TOI-3261 b belongs to the rare class of hot Neptunes, planets similar to Neptune in size and has twice the density of Neptune. A year on TOI-3261 b lasts only 21 hours.
ii.Scientists suggest that TOI-3261 b likely started as a massive gas giant but changed due to photoevaporation and tidal stripping. These processes, driven by its star’s energy and gravity, stripped away much of its atmosphere.
OBITUARY
Renowned Folk Artist and Padma Shri awardee Darshanam Mogilaiah Passed Away
In December 2024, Renowned folk artist and Padma Shri awardee Darshanam Mogilaiah passed away at the age of 73 in Warangal, Telangana. He was born in 1951 in Ausalikunta, Andhra Pradesh,AP(now in Telangana).
- He was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2022 for his contributions to traditional folk music.
About Darshanam Mogilaiah:
i.Darshanam Mogilaiah born into a family of ‘Kinnera’ players, an instrument originating from the 4th century CE. He was known as ‘Kinnera Mogulaiah’.
ii.He was nationally recognised by his incredible invention of a 12-stair Kinnera, which set him apart from other artists and preserved the heritage of Telangana’s folk music.
iii.His work received attention from audiences in the Tollywood movie ‘Balagam’. In this movie, along with his acting, he sang the heartfelt song ‘Thoduga Maa Thodundi’ which became a favorite among folk music fans.
iv.He was one of the last artists skilled in playing the Kinnera.
Eminent Archaeologist K.V. Raman Passes Away at 90
In November 2024, renowned archaeologist and scholar K.V. Raman, known for his invaluable contributions to ancient history, archaeology, and temple architecture, passed away at the age of 90 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu(TN). He was born in Chingleput, TN in 1934.
i.K.V. Raman, was a distinguished archaeologist known for his exceptional contributions to the study of ancient Indian history, particularly Pandya history.
ii.He was a professor at the University of Madras (UNOM), Chennai. Before joining the university, he worked with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), playing a significant role in several key excavations.
iii.Works: K.V. Raman was a distinguished author with key works like Early History of the Madras Region, a significant contribution to ancient history, and a study of the Sri Varadharajaperumal Temple located in Kanchipuram, TN. His book ‘Principles and Methods of Archaeology’ is a foundational guide on archaeological methods.
iv.Awards: His scholarly work earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Regional Educational Award and recognition as a Senior Fellow of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) in the United Kingdom (U.K).
Former World Snooker Champion Terry Griffiths Passes Away
In December 2024, Terry Griffiths, the British player and former World Snooker Champion, passed away at the age of 77 in Wales, the United Kingdom(UK). He was born in 1947 in Wales, the UK.
i.He made history in 1979 by winning the Crucible World Championship (WC). He went on to achieve the “triple crown” in snooker, winning the Masters in 1981 and the UK Championship in 1982.
ii.After retiring in 1997, he became a successful coach, mentoring top players such as Mark Williams, Stephen Hendry, and Mark Allen.
iii.In recognition of his contribution to the sport, he was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2007.
IMPORTANT DAYS
First-Ever UN World Meditation Day – December 21 2024
The United Nations(UN) observed the first ever ‘World Meditation Day’ on December 21 2024 to emphasize the profound mental, physical, and social benefits of meditation, while fostering peace and unity worldwide.
Background:
i.On November 29 2024, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared December 21 as ‘World Meditation Day’ following the unanimous adoption of a resolution co-sponsored by 6 countries comprising India, Sri Lanka, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Mexico and Nepal.
- The resolution was adopted on December 6 2024, by the 193-member UNGA.
ii.The resolution, introduced by Liechtenstein, was also cosponsored by Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Burundi, the Dominican Republic, Iceland, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Portugal and Slovenia.
About United Nation General Assembly (UNGA):
President – Philemon Yang(Cameroon)
Headquarters- New York, the United States of America (USA)
Established- 1945
Members- 193
>> Read Full News
UN World Basketball Day: 21 December 2024
The 2nd Edition of United Nations (UN) World Basketball Day was observed annually on 21 December 2024 across the globe to celebrate the global significance of basketball recognized by the UN, acknowledging basketball’s role in promoting gender equality, empowering women and girls, and fostering human rights.
- In 2023, delegates gathered at the International Basketball Federation (FIBA’s) House of Basketball in Mies, Switzerland to mark the 1st ever occasion, showcasing the sport’s ability to bring people together.
History and Background:
i.Origin of the Sport: On December 21 1891, Dr. James Naismith invented basketball at the International Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, the United States of America (USA), to keep students active during winter.
ii.First World Basketball Day: On 25 August 2023, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/77/324 proclaiming 21 December as World Basketball Day ,following the introduction of a draft resolution by Antonio Lagdameo, the Philippine Ambassador to the UN.
>> Read Full News
STATE NEWS
UP Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna Presented 2nd Supplementary Budget of Rs 17,865.72 crore for FY25
On December 17 2024, the Finance Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Suresh Kumar Khanna presented a second supplementary budget of Rs 17,865.72 crore for the Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), which is 2.42% of the original budget (Rs 7.36 lakh crore) presented in February 2024.
- In July 2024, the state government of UP presented the 1st supplementary budget of Rs 12,209.93 crore, and now with the 2nd addition, the total budget size for FY25 will amount to Rs 7,66,513.36 crore.
i.Rs 8,587.27 crore has been allocated for the energy department to enhance the state’s energy resources and infrastructure.
ii.Rs 1,001 crore has been allocated for the Animal Husbandry sector and Rs 805 crore for the Public Works Department (PWD).
iii.Budget allocation for other key sectors like: Information Department (Rs 505 crore), Panchayati Raj (Rs 454.01 crore) and Medical Education and Training (Rs 354.54 crore).
About Uttar Pradesh (UP):
Chief Minister (CM) – Yogi Adityanath
Governor- Anandiben Patel
Capital- Lucknow
National Park (NP) – Dudhwa National Park
>> Read Full News
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