part 13

[Virtual Presenter] About Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE): Union Minister– Dr Virendra Kumar Khatik (Constituency Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, MP) Minister of State (MoS) – Ramdas Athawale (Rajya Sabha Maharashtra); B L Verma (Rajya Sabha Uttar Pradesh, UP) MoLE & Amazon signed a MoU to enhance employment accessibility in India On 26th September 2024, the Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoLE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with Amazon in New Delhi(Delhi) to enhance employment accessibility in India. Key People: The MoU, set for 2 years, was signed in the presence of Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, MoLE and Minister of State (MoS) Shobha Karandlaje, MoLE. i.The MoU also highlights the joint commitment to leveraging the National Career Service (N-C-S--) portal to boost job opportunities. The portal is developing as a one stop platform for accessing employment opportunities across sectors and industries. ii.The enhanced platform will offer a user friendly interface for job seekers, employers, and stakeholders, utilising advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (A-I---). iii.Under this MoU, Amazon and its third party staffing agencies involved in hiring for Amazon will regularly post job vacancies on the N-C-S portal and conduct hiring through it. iv.Job fairs at Model Career Centres (MCCs) will also be organised under this partnership. Tata Electronics & Taiwan’s P-S-M-C Complete Agreement for Tech Transfer to Build India’s 1st semiconductor fab Tata Electronics Private Limited (T-E-P-L-) has completed the Definitive Agreement with Taiwan based Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (P-S-M-C-) under which P-S-M-C will provide design and construction support to build India’s 1st Artificial Intelligence (A-I---)-enabled greenfield fab in Dholera(Gujarat). i.PSMC will license a broad portfolio of technologies and provide engineering support to successfully transfer licensed technologies to the Gujarat fab. ii.With a total investment of up to Rs 91000 crores (USD 11 billion),the Fab will create over 20000 direct and indirect skilled jobs. iii.The new semiconductor fab will manufacture chips for applications like Power Management Integrated Circuits (I-C---), Display Drivers, Microcontroller Unit (M-C-U--) and high performance computing logic, addressing the growing demand in markets such as (A-I ), automotive, computing and data storage, and wireless communication. Note: tepl is s a greenfield venture of the Tata group with expertise in manufacturing precision components. Department of Posts & Amazon Signed MoU to Enhance Logistics & e commerce in India On 4th October 2024, The Department of Posts (DoP) under the Ministry of Communications, and Amazon Seller Services Private Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the logistics and e commerce in India. The agreement expands the previous collaboration with Amazon using India’s vast postal network to send and receive packages. Signatories: The MoU was signed by Kushal Vashist, General Manager (Parcel Directorate) DoP, and Venkatesh Tiwari, Director (Operations), Amazon Seller Services in the presence of Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts) in New Delhi, Delhi. i.This MoU aims to collaboratively explore opportunities in logistics and business growth prospects, allowing Amazon to leverage DoP’s enormous postal network for parcel delivery throughout India. Report Errors in the P-D-F ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2024 @ AffairsCloud.com 159.

[Audio] ii.The MoU outlines key areas of cooperation, including synchronization of logistics operations, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-sharing opportunities. iii.Quarterly reviews will be carried out by both parties to track the development of their partnership and look for new opportunities to make it stronger. MeitY & MCTE Partners to Foster Innovation & Technological Advancements for Defence Applications The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Indore(Madhya Pradesh, MP) based Military College of Telecommunications Engineering (MCTE) have partnered to foster innovation and drive technological advancements for defence applications. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the Research and Development (R&D) organisations of MeitY have handed over indigenously developed products to MCTE for military use. i.This partnership aims to strengthen collaborative efforts for joint R&D in areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum, Chip Design, Fifth Generation(5G) & beyond, strategic electronics and communications etc. ii.This will accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies to meet the evolving needs and challenges faced by the Indian Army(IA). iii.This partnership will also provide a platform for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through an incubation ecosystem, promoting cross-pollination of ideas and technologies. AICTE & SIDM signed MoU to boost academia-industry synergy in the Defence and Aerospace sectors The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to 'create a future-ready workforce for the Defence and Aerospace sectors' in New Delhi, Delhi. The MoU was exchanged between the Chairman of AICTE, Prof. T.G. Sitharam and the president of SIDM, Rajinder Singh Bhatia, in the presence of Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence(MoD). i.The MoU aims to establish a strong partnership between academia and the defence industry, with a focus on creating a future-ready workforce for the Defence and Aerospace sectors from AICTE-approved institutions across India. ii.It was signed for three years and will help to build a strong partnership, allowing the defence industry to hire skilled graduates who are trained in relevant fields. iii.The partnership focuses on developing faculty and students through special awareness programs that will strengthen Defence and Aerospace education and offer industry internships in Defence and related sectors for students to enhance their employability. IOCL & Nepal Oil Corporation Sign B2B Framework Agreements to Develop Petroleum Infrastructure in Nepal On 3rd October 2024, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) signed a Business to Business (B2B) Framework Agreement for the development of petroleum infrastructure in Nepal with a total investment of around Rs.15 billion. A 50-kilometer petroleum pipeline will be constructed from Siliguri in India to Charali in Jhapa, Nepal. A state-of-the-art terminal will be built in Charali to enhance storage and distribution capabilities in the region of Nepal. 62-kilometer pipeline connecting Amlekhgunj to Lothar in Chitwan, Nepal. Report Errors in.

[Audio] A modern terminal with a storage capacity of 91,900 kiloliters will be developed at Lothar. Signatories: The agreement was signed by Dr. Chandika Prasad Bhatta, Executive Director of NOC, and Senthil Kumar, Director of IOCL, in New Delhi, Delhi, in the presence of senior officials, including Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG), India, and V. Satish Kumar, Chairman of IOCL. Background: This collaboration is based on a Government-to-Government (G2G) Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2023 between India's MoP&NG and Nepal's Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. dani Group & Google partnered to boost clean energy in India Ahmedabad(Gujarat) based Adani Group and the United States of America(USA) based Google have announced a partnership to enhance the sustainability efforts and contribute to the growth of clean energy in India. Under this partnership, Adani will supply renewable energy from a new solar-wind hybrid project, part of the world's largest renewable energy plant located in Khavda, Gujarat. The project will begin its commercial operations in 2025. i.This initiative aligns with the group's strategy to decarbonize industries while focusing more on merchant and Commercial and Industrial (C&I) segments. ii.This collaboration will help Google to achieve its "24/7 carbon-free energy goal" by ensuring that cloud services and operations in India are powered by sustainable energy. GoI & GBA signed agreement to Establish GBA Secretariat in India The Government of India(GoI) has signed a Host Country Agreement(HCA) with the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) to officially establish the GBA Secretariat in India. The agreement was signed at a ceremony in New Delhi (Delhi). This initiative strengthens India's position as a global leader in sustainable energy and reinforces the country's commitment to promoting biofuels. Signatories: The agreement was signed by Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and Pankaj Jain, Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), who currently serves as the Interim Director General of the GBA. Key Points: i.This agreement, following the Union Cabinet's approval on October 3, 2024, will enable the GBA Secretariat to operate in India with a blend of Indian and international staff. ii.This will facilitate the alliance in achieving its objectives of promoting biofuels on a global scale. iii.The HCA grants GBA legal recognition, including privileges and immunities under the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act of 1947, ensuring smooth operations within India's legal framework. iv.The establishment of the GBA Secretariat in India is expected to open up new job opportunities for Indian biofuel experts and create a platform for the country's private sector to showcase its innovation in biofuels About Global BioFuels Alliance (GBA): i.The Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) was launched by India during its G20 presidency in 2023, led by the Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and supported by leaders from Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Italy, Mauritius, Singapore,.

[Audio] By promoting biofuels as a sustainable energy source, the Alliance seeks to address challenges such as feedstock availability, investment needs, and policy frameworks. iv.Members: The Alliance consists of 27 countries and 12 international organizations, having expanded rapidly in less than a year since its inception. About Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG): Union Minister- Hardeep Singh Puri (Rajya Sabha – Uttar Pradesh, UP) Minister of State(MoS) – Suresh Gopi (Constituency – Thrissur, Kerala) SKYBER Partners with Sibia to Sell India-Made UAVs in the MEA Region SKYBER Aerospace Private Limited, an advanced air mobility firm, has announced a strategic partnership with Dubai (The United Arab Emirates-UAE)-based Sibia Technologies, to market and sell made-in-India Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) across the Middle East and Africa (MEA). With an expected market size of USD 5.3 billion by 2029, the MEA region presents vast opportunities in both government and commercial sectors. Details of the partnership: i.Under this partnership, SKYBER will supply high-performance customised military UAV systems to strengthen the defence systems in the MEA region, while Sibia will handle local sales, marketing, customer relations, and logistics. ii.The partnership targets both military and commercial sectors, including industries such as oil and gas, construction, and agriculture. Significant consumers are expected from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. iii.UAVs will feature advanced data security, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered navigation, and autonomous capabilities, with future enhancements including high-precision sensors. iv.Systems will be designed to endure extreme weather conditions typical of the region, ensuring reliability in various environments. v.Sibia will provide operator training and ensure compliance with local regulations, streamlining operations with readily available spare parts and support services. About SKYBER Aerospace Private Limited: Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– Joseph George Headquarters– Bengaluru, Karnataka Establishment– 2023 RITES signs MoU with Etihad Rail for Rail Infrastructure Development Projects in UAE Gurugram(Haryana) based RITES Limited, formerly known as Rail India Technical and Economic Service Limited, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) National Rail Network, to explore collaboration and leverage capabilities in the development of railways and associated infrastructure services in the UAE and the wider region. The MoU was signed by Rahul Mithal, Chairman and Managing Director(CMD) of RITES Ltd., and Shadi Malak ,Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Etihad Rail, during the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition & Conference in Abu Dhabi, the UAE. i.The partnership seeks to ensure more modern and efficient rail services in the UAE and utilizing the strengths of both parties to explore collaborative opportunities for rolling stock supply, project management and consulting for railway projects, and services like rolling stock repair and railway infrastructure operation and maintenance. ii.It will also involve workforce development, {knowledge.

[Audio] IEA and IIT Delhi Signed MoU for Advancing Clean Energy Technologies and Transitions The International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the role of energy technology innovation in reducing emissions and leading clean energy transitions. The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including policy analysis to promote energy innovation and the exchange of information on energy technology trends, with a focus on emerging and developing economies. Signatories: The MoU was signed by Fatih Birol, Executive Director of IEA, at IEA headquarters in Paris(France) and remotely by Prof. Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT-Delhi and Ambuj Sagar deputy director for strategy and planning, IIT Delhi. The MoU was signed in the presence of Jawed Ashraf, Ambassador of India to the Republic of France and the Principality of Monaco. Additional info: In October 2024, The IEA and IIT Delhi have released a joint report titled "Clean Energy Innovation Policies in Emerging and Developing Economies", which explores the economic opportunities and the role of policy in driving the growth of the new energy economy in emerging markets and developing economies. MSDE partners with Meta for AI Assistant in Skill India Mission and 5 Centers of Excellence in NSTIs The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has partnered with Meta, parent company of the social network Facebook, to enhance the Skill India Mission through the development of an Artificial Intelligence(AI) Assistant and the establishment of five Centers of Excellence (CoEs) focused on Virtual Reality (VR) and Mixed Reality (MR). Five CoEs will be established at National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) located in: Hyderabad(Telangana), Bengaluru(Karnataka), Jodhpur(Rajasthan), Chennai(Tamil Nadu,TN), Kanpur(Uttar Pradesh, UP). Key Points: i.This collaboration aims to leverage advanced technology to improve skill development training and accessibility for learners across India. ii.The partnership will create an AI-powered chatbot utilizing Meta's open-source Llama model. This chatbot will be integrated into the Skill India Digital (SID) Portal, providing 24/7 support for users, including quick access to course information, and educational resources. iii.These centers will equip instructors and learners with cutting-edge VR technology. COMMITTEES & MEETINGS 4th Global RE-INVEST Renewable Energy Investors Meet & Expo held in Gujarat Global Renewable Energy Investor's Meet and Expo (RE-INVEST) 2024, the 4th edition of the flagship event by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy(MNRE), was held at the Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, Gujarat from 16th to 18th September 2024. The 3-day summit was inaugurated by Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi on 16th September 2024. Global RE-INVEST 2024.

[Audio] ii.RE-Invest is a global platform bringing together key players in the renewable energy sector which include government officials, industry leaders, investors, researchers, and policymakers. iii.It will showcase the latest renewable energy technologies and solutions and will involve discussions about the future of energy, ongoing trends, technologies, and policies shaping the global renewable energy outlook. REC Signs MoUs to Fund Rs 1.12 Lakh Crore RE Projects REC Limited, formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with renewable energy (RE) developers to fund projects worth around Rs.1.12 lakh crore. Points to note: i.These MoUs involve solar-wind hybrid, round-the-clock (RTC) renewable power projects, firm and dispatchable renewable energy (FDRE) projects, floating solar plants, ultra-mega renewable energy parks, hydroelectric power projects, battery energy storage systems, pumped storage, hydropower, green ammonia and hydrogen, and solar cells and modules manufacturing, among others. ii.There are ongoing discussions for financing green energy corridors, wind turbine manufacturing and the electric vehicle ecosystem. iii.Hygenco Green Energies, a company focusing on green hydrogen, also signed an MoU with REC for funding of up to USD 280 million for Hygenco's green ammonia project in Gopalpur, Odisha. The green hydrogen-focused company itself is going to invest about USD 2.5 billion towards its green hydrogen and green ammonia projects in India in the next few years. Hygenco had commissioned India's first commercial green hydrogen plant at Hisar, Haryana in March 2024. iii. Gurugram(Haryana)-based Sunsure Energy signed an MoU with REC Ltd to finance debt of Rs 10,000 crore to support the development of 3 GW of solar, wind, hybrid, and battery energy storage. Torrent Power commits investment of Rs 64,000 crore in renewable energy projects Torrent Power Limited has promised an investment of Rs 64,000 crore for green or RE projects having employment potential for 26,000 people. i.Torrent Power has also submitted two 'Shapath Patra' to the MNRE and reaffirmed its commitment towards green and sustainable future. ii.The 1st 'Shapath Patra' involves achieving 10 GW of installed RE capacity by 2030, with an investment of Rs 57,000 crore. iii.As part of these commitments, Torrent Power signed an MoU with Government of Gujarat for execution of 5 GW solar, wind or solar-wind hybrid project at Dwarka District. iii.The 2nd 'Shapath Patra' involves the setting up of 1 lakh Kilo Tonnes Per Annum (KTPA) Green Ammonia production facility worth Rs 7,200 crore. Vertical Solar Farms to be Introduced to Power Agriculture, Clean Energy Production AgriVijay, an agtech climate action social organization, Next2Sun Germany, and Wattkraft India signed an MoU to introduce an innovative vertical solar technology to generate clean energy and revolutionize the agricultural landscape by enabling continued farming on the same land. Points to note: i.The partnership aims to address the growing concerns over land usage in conventional solar installations, which often displace valuable agricultural land. ii.by leveraging Next2Sun's innovative vertical bifacial Agri-PV.

[Audio] India, Germany launches joint platform to boost global renewable energy investments India and Germany have introduced a joint platform known as 'India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energies Worldwide' under the joint Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP) for increasing investments in renewable energy in India and globally. This initiative will help in enhancing business opportunities, attract investments, support technology transfer, and drive innovation. The platform will spread the renewable energy capabilities worldwide to provide integrated, diversified, and resilient supply chains to reduce dependence on unilateral energy sources. India, Germany Concluded Development Policy Negotiations Successfully India and Germany have successfully concluded their development policy negotiations, committing their cooperation in key sectors such as renewable energy, urban development, mobility, and agroecology. The discussion was held by the Department for Economic Affairs (Indian Ministry of Finance) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Key Points: i.The Indo-German cooperation is built upon the Partnership for Green and Sustainable Development established in 2022. ii.As part of the ongoing cooperation, Germany has planned to provide over 1 billion Euro as concessional loans and technical assistance in 2024 for projects in sectors such as renewable energy, mobility, sustainable agriculture, forest ecosystems, and vocational education. Key developments involve the construction of 7,700 kilometers(km) of modern transmission lines, German-financed metro projects in Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Kochi, and supporting climate-resilient agricultural practices in India. iii.Apart from the above developments, India and Germany also launched a joint platform as a part of the cooperation for increasing investments in renewable energy both in India and globally. Gujarat Wins Several Awards at RE-INVEST 2024 During Global RE-INVEST 2024, Gujarat has won numerous awards for its renewable energy achievements. Gujarat was ranked among the top 3 in overall renewable energy capacity, solar power capacity and wind power capacity. Points to note: i.Gujarat topped the overall renewable energy capacity achieved and overall wind power capacity achieved categories. ii.Gujarat was ranked 2nd under overall solar power capacity achieved as Rajasthan claimed the top spot. iii.Other top ranked states under these categories were Rajasthan (bagged two awards), Tamil Nadu (two) and Karnataka (two), Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand one each under overall hydro power capacity achiever's category. iv.Gujarat has received the highest achiever award with a capacity of 28,220 Megawatt (MW) in the field of renewable energy. Rajasthan secured the second position with overall solar power capacity with 22,031 MW. At present, Gujarat has a capacity of 11,822 MW in wind power and solar power with a capacity of 14,201 MW. v.Himachal Pradesh has been awarded the Highest Achiever State in Overall Hydropower Capacity at the Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet and Expo. Himachal aims to become a Green Energy State by March 31, 2026. A 32 MW Pekhubela solar power plant has.

[Audio] Gujarat Launched the 'Mission 100 GW' Gujarat Chief Minister (CM) Bhupendra Patel launched the 'Mission 100 GW of renewable energy in Gujarat' and released 'Gujarat Energy Vision 2047' during Global RE-INVEST 2024. The mission aims to install 100 GW of renewable energy by 2030 in Gujarat and will help in achieving the renewable energy targets of India. Additional info: Gujarat is the only state in India where four semiconductor plants are currently planned to be established Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) and Gujarat government worth Rs 5000 crore Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSEC) and Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) worth Rs 59,000 crore Avada Energy and Gujarat Power Corporation Limited (GPCL) worth Rs 85,000 crore Juniper Green Energy and Gujarat Energy Development Agency (GEDA) worth Rs 30,000 crore. 4th Global RE-INVEST Drew Investment Commitments Worth Rs 32.45 lakh crore Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, MNRE, stated that the 4th Global RE-INVEST drew investment commitments worth Rs 32.45 lakh crore in the form of Shapath Patra by 2030. i.The developers have committed an additional 570 GW, manufacturers have committed additional manufacturing capacities of 340 GW in solar modules, 240 GW in solar cells, 22 GW in wind turbines and 10 GW in electrolysers. iii.Beyond this, banks and financial institutions have also cooperated for a greener and sustainable India. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav Addresses Plenary Session: On 18th September 2024, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of for Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) addressed the Plenary Session on India's Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in RE-INVEST 2024. i.He highlighted that India's per capita consumption remains low and has made remarkable progress in reducing carbon emissions. He also emphasized on the fact that India is the only G20 country to have achieved two out of three quantitative Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) targets of the Paris Agreement nine years ahead of schedule. ii.Moreover, the private sector will help in achieving the Net Zero ambition by 2070 by strengthening renewable grids, developing low carbon technology, and managing demand side issues. iii.A greater focus has been laid upon fuel switching, recycling, circular economy, promotion of green hydrogen technology and empowerment of the MSME sector. Secretary of DoA&FW, Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi Chaired a Review Meeting of UN World Food Programme– CPAC On 26th September 2024, Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare (DoA&FW) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare (MoA&FW), chaired the 1st meeting of the Country Programme Advisory Committee (CPAC) to review the implementation of the Country Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027 with representatives of the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP) in {New.

[Audio] The key function of CPAC is to coordinate and review the progress under CSP 2023-27. ii.It is mandatory for CPAC to meet at least once in year. MoU between DoA&FW and UN WFP: i.During the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the DoA&FW and the UN WFP, aimed to address the national priorities in food security and nutrition through capacity building and technical support. ii.As per the MoU, the CSP 2023-27 focuses on 4 strategic outcomes which includes: more effective and efficient national food-based social protection systems; rising consumption of diverse, nutritious, and fortified foods; enhancing the social and financial mobility of women; and strengthening the adaptive capacity to build climate-resilient livelihoods and food systems. About World Food Programme (WFP): Executive Director(ED)- Cindy H. McCain Headquarters- Rome, Italy Established- 1961 Secretary Gina Raimondo and Piyush Goyal Co-Chair 6th U.S.-India Commercial Dialogue Meeting On 3rd October 2024, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and Gina Raimondo, United States (US) Secretary of Commerce, co-chaired the 6th consecutive India-US Commercial Dialogue held in the US Department of Commerce, in Washington D.C., the United States of America (USA). Piyush Goyal was on a visit to the USA from 30th September 2024 to 3rd October 2024 at the invitation of Gina Raimondo. About 6th India-US Commercial Dialogue: Objective: To improve the business and investment climate between the two countries, with a renewed focus on new and emerging technologies. Priority areas: Supply Chains Resilience; Climate and Clean Technology Cooperation; Inclusive Digital Growth; and Standards and Conformance Cooperation. India, USA sign MoU on Critical Minerals Supply Chains India and the USA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand and diversify the critical minerals supply chain at a bilateral commercial dialogue held in Washington DC. The MoU aims to cooperate on strengthening supply chains in India and USA for lithium, cobalt and other critical minerals that are mainly used in electric vehicles and clean energy applications. This will provide complementary strengths and will mutually benefit the development of Indian and US critical minerals exploration, extraction, processing, recycling, and related activities. Other initiatives: i.The meeting witnessed the launch of a new effort under the Innovation Handshake agenda to accelerate innovation specifically in energy security, technology, and sustainability ii.The Secretary and the Minister looked forward to the U.S. Department of Commerce-led Global Diversity Export Initiative Trade Mission to India in early March 2025, with a focus on expanding opportunities in the Indian market for U.S. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)that are owned, operated, or led by members of underserved communities. iii.India and USA are planning to expand Startup and SME Resources in Bengaluru, Karnataka. iv.Both India and USA are strengthening collaboration to boost the travel and tourism sector. v.Collaboration to.

[Audio] USA. About the United States of America (USA): President – Joe Biden Capital– Washington, D.C. Currency– United States Dollar (USD) MoL&E Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Chairs 194th Meeting of Employees' State Insurance Corporation Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoL&E), chaired the 194th meeting of the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) at its headquarters in New Delhi, Delhi. The meeting focused on improving medical care services, administration, financial matters, and reviewing ongoing construction projects. Union Minister announced several key decisions of ESIC to strengthen the infrastructure and medical facilities of ESIC. Key People: Union Minister of State (MoS) Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, MoL&E; Sumita Dawra, Secretary, MoL&E. Ashok Kumar Singh, Director General (DG), ESIC, among others. Details of the Announcements: Establishment of 10 New ESIC Medical Colleges: To enhance medical education, the ESIC approved the establishment of 10 new medical colleges across various states viz. Andheri (Maharashtra), Basaidarapur (Delhi), Guwahati-Beltola (Assam), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Jaipur (Rajasthan), Ludhiana (Punjab), Naroda-Bapunagar (Gujarat), Noida & Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), and Ranchi (Jharkhand). It supports the Prime Minister's (PM) Narendra Modi announcement of creating 75,000 new medical seats in 5 years. Extension of Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna: The unemployment allowance scheme for insured persons has been extended from 1st July 2024 to 30th June 2026 to provide continued support during job searches. This initiative is a support measure for employees protected under Section 2(9) of the ESI Act, 1948, providing a relief payment for up to 90 days, available once in a lifetime. Provision of Medical Care under Ayushman Bharat PMJAY: The Minister announced provision of Medical Care to ESIC Beneficiaries under convergence program of ESIC with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) on pan India basis. This will help the ESIC beneficiaries to get treatment at empanelled hospitals of AB-PMJAY in unserviced/deficient areas of India. Introduction of Para-medical & B.Sc Nursing Courses: New para-medical and nursing courses are approved to be offered in several ESIC Medical Colleges to address the need for trained healthcare professionals. These will be located in Alwar (Rajasthan), Bihta (Bihar), Faridabad (Haryana), Joka (Kolkata, West Bengal/WB), K.K. Nagar (Chennai, Tamil Nadu), Sanathnagar (Hyderabad, Telangana), and Rajajinagar (Bengaluru, Karnataka). Nursing Officer Recruitment through NORCET: i.ESI Corporation has approved for the adoption of recruitment for the post of Nursing Officer, in line with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) recruitment policy, for conducting the recruitment of Nursing Officers through National Online Registration for Nursing Entrance Test (NORCET) organized by AIIMS. Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2024 @ AffairsCloud.com.

[Audio] ii.This will ensure that there is no shortage and vacancy of nurses in ESIC Hospitals/Colleges and Dispensaries. Acquisition of Land for New Hospitals and Dispensaries: The ESIC approved land acquisition for constructing new hospitals and dispensaries to strengthen healthcare infrastructure. These include: 100-bedded ESI Hospital in Guntur (Andhra Pradesh/AP). Doctor Dispensary in Fatehpur (Uttar Pradesh/UP). Dispensary cum Branch Office (DCBO) in Pratapgarh, and Auraiya (UP). 350-bedded ESI Hospital in Pune (Maharashtra). ESI Dispensary and Branch Office in Dhubri (Assam). 100-bedded ESI Hospital in Muzaffarpur (Bihar). Additional info: i.Construction of 717 new staff quarters at ESIC residential colony, Sector-56, Noida, Uttar Pradesh(UP) has also been approved. ii.Various agenda items pertaining to improvement in Medical Care Services, Administration, Financial Matters were deliberated upon and decided during the meeting along with the review of ongoing construction projects. Recent Related News: i.The 46th session of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee (WHC), hosted by India for the first time, was held at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Delhi (India) from 21st to 31st July 2024. ii.The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has constituted 5-member committee headed by Ravi Gandhi, Additional Director General (ADG), Border Security Force (BSF) and Eastern Command of the Indian Army(IA) to monitor the current situation on Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). About Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC): Director General (DG)– Ashok Kumar Singh Parent Ministry– Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoL&E) Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi Establishment– 1952 Islamabad hosted 23rd SCO CHG Meeting focused on trade and economic agenda The 23rd Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) was held on 16th October 2024, in Islamabad, Pakistan under the leadership of the Pakistan Prime Minister(PM) Shehbaz Sharif. The summit focused on regional security, trade, economic collaboration, and the fight against terrorism. Note: The SCO CHG will be hosted by Russia in 2025. Key People: Li Qiang, China's Premier; Russia's PM Mikhail Mishustin; Belarus' PM Roman Golovchenko; Kazakhstan's PM Olzhas Bektenov; Kyrgyzstan's PM Akylbek Zhaparov; Tajikistan's PM Akylbek Zhaparov; Uzbekistan's PM Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov; First Vice President of Iran Mohammad Mokhber of Iran; and Mongolia's PM Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene were among the key participants of the meeting. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Addressed 23rd SCO CHG Union Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Ministry of External Affairs(MEA), Government of India(GoI), addressed the 23rd SCO CHG in Islamabad. He became the first Indian foreign minister to visit Pakistan in nearly a decade. S Jaishankar during his address, raised concerns about the issue of terrorism that hinders trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges. Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com.

[Audio] He also raised the issue of violation of Indian sovereignty because of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. Moreover, he also emphasised the need to make the UN Security Council(UNSC) more inclusive, representative, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable. Highlights: External Affairs Minister(EAM) S Jaishankar signed 8 outcome documents during the summit, highlighting India's positive and constructive contributions during the 23rd SCO SHG. He further elaborated on eight key takeaways from India's perspective. i.Developing a dialogue focusing on the theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future". ii.Outcomes of India initiatives like SCO Startup Forum, Special Working Group (SWG) on Startups and Innovation and Traditional Medicine welcomed by SCO members. iii.Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) & Digital Inclusion as a part of SCO cooperation framework. iv.SCO taking inspiration from Mission LiFE (LiFEStyle For Environment), a global mass movement led by India in achieving the United Nations(UN)'s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). v.Enhancing global food security and nutrition by promoting the use of climate-resilient and nutritious grains such as millet. vi.Supporting fair and balanced connectivity projects in alignment with international law, the goals and principles of the UN Charter and SCO Charter. vii.Re-focusing upon the rules-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive and transparent multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) at its core. viii.Disagreeing with the protectionist actions, unilateral sanctions, and trade restrictions that threaten the multilateral trading system and hamper global sustainable development. About Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO): SCO was formed on 15th June 2001, in Shanghai, China, to boost mutual trust among member states, promote cooperation in trade, economics, science, and technology, and jointly maintain peace, security, and stability in the region. Secretary-General – Zhang Ming Members– Belarus, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan Headquarters – Beijing, China SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE MoS Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel Inaugurated National Conference on PESA Act in New Delhi On 26th September 2024, Union Minister of State (MoS) Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) inaugurated and addressed National Conference on the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) at Dr. Ambedkar International Central in New Delhi, Delhi. This Conference marks a significant step forward in the Government of India (GoI)'s commitment to enhancing governance and development in Scheduled Areas (SAs) across India. The conference witnessed the launch of PESA – GPDP (Gram Panchayat Development Plan) portal and seven actionoriented Specialized Training Modules aimed to enhance the effectiveness of GPDPs and training initiatives. Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2024 @ AffairsCloud.com 170.

[Audio] Key Participants: Over 500 participants from 10 PESA states, including State Panchayati Raj Ministers, senior officials from Central and State Departments, representatives from all 3-tiers of the Panchayati Raj systems and representatives from Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) participated in the conference. About 7 Comprehensive Training Modules: i.These action-oriented training modules are developed under the PESA Act, 1996. ii.These modules focus on critical areas including Prevention of Land Alienation, Strengthening Gram Sabha, Control Over Money Lending, Customary Mode of Dispute Resolution, Intoxication, Minor Forest Produce, and Minor Minerals. iii.These modules aim to strengthen PESA Gram Sabhas by facilitating guidance on their delineated powers, which will enable them to generate and manage their Own Source Revenue (OSR), and to preserve their socio-cultural norms and traditions. Highlights of National Conference on PESA: i.The conference witnessed the discussion on transformative steps if GoI such as Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan(PMJUGA). ii.The MoPR also introduced initiatives like the Functional Activity Mapping Dashboard for monitoring State actions on the 29 Subjects outlined in the 11th Schedule of the Constitution, the PESA Training Manual for Vth Schedule Areas, and the PESA–GPDP Portal to facilitate village-based development planning. iv.Panel discussions on key topics like "PESA Gram Sabha: Visualising the Way Forward"; "Strengthening the PESA Economies: Forests Rights Act (FRA), Minor Forest Produce (MFP), and Minor Minerals" and "Empowering the Last Mile: Saturation of PESA Training Modules and Effective IEC" were also held during the conference. About PM JANMAN Yojana: i.In 2023, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi had approved the PM JANMAN Yojana. ii.The Centre Government has allocated budgetary allocation of Rs 24,104 crore (Central Share:Rs 15,336 crore and state share: Rs 8,768 crore) from Financial Year 2023-24 (FY24) to FY26 under the Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes (DAPST). iii.The key beneficiaries under PM JANMAN yojana are Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), comprising 75 communities located in 18 states and the Union Territory (UT) of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. iv.The scheme has classified 11 important areas/ critical interventions across 9 line ministries. About Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan(PM-JUGA) i.On 18th September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved PM JUGA with budgetary allocation of Rs 79,156 crore, of which Centre government will provide Rs 56,333 crore and state governments will provide Rs 22, 823 crore. ii.The main objective of the scheme is to improve the socio-economic condition of tribal communities, by adopting saturation coverage for tribal families in tribal-majority villages and aspirational districts. iii.In Union Budget for FY25, the GoI announced that the scheme will cover around 63,000 villages,.