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Net Direct Tax Collection Sees Robust 16.45% Growth to Rs 15.82 Lakh Crore

The net direct tax collections for the fiscal year 2023-24 have surged by 16.45% to Rs 15.82 lakh crore by December 17, driven primarily by a strong 21% rise in advance tax payments. This growth reflects the government’s improved tax collection mechanism and efforts to bridge the fiscal deficit gap. The increase includes various taxes such as corporate tax, personal income tax, and securities transaction tax (STT), along with other levies.

Key Highlights

Corporate and Non-Corporate Tax Growth

Corporate tax collections increased to Rs 9.24 lakh crore, up from Rs 7.90 lakh crore, while net collections stood at Rs 7.42 lakh crore, compared to Rs 6.83 lakh crore last year. Non-corporate tax collections, which include personal income tax, rose to Rs 9.53 lakh crore, with net collections touching Rs 7.97 lakh crore, a sharp rise from Rs 6.50 lakh crore.

Advance Tax & Refunds Surge

The substantial rise in advance tax collections, reaching Rs 7.56 lakh crore, was a major contributor. Refunds issued during the period totaled Rs 3.39 lakh crore, marking a 42.49% increase from the previous fiscal year.

Securities Transaction Tax (STT)

STT collections witnessed a significant jump to Rs 40,114 crore, compared to Rs 21,628 crore last year, reflecting stronger market activities.

Tax Filing Trends

Income tax return filings saw an increase, with over 8.09 crore returns filed for FY24, up from 7.40 crore in FY23. However, only 6.68% of India’s population filed income tax returns, with a notable number of individuals reporting zero taxable income.

Fiscal Deficit and Economic Implications

The surge in direct tax collection is crucial for meeting the government’s fiscal deficit targets, signaling a positive trend in India’s economic recovery and financial management. The rise in both corporate and personal income tax collections indicates a robust economic performance, despite challenges.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Net direct tax collections grew 16.45% to Rs 15.82 lakh crore till Dec 17, FY24, driven by a 21% rise in advance tax to Rs 7.56 lakh crore. Refunds rose 42.49% to Rs 3.39 lakh crore. Income tax returns filed increased to 8.09 crore in FY24.
Advance Tax Collection Rs 7.56 lakh crore, marking a 21% growth.
Refunds Issued Rs 3.39 lakh crore, up by 42.49% from the previous fiscal.
Corporate Tax Gross: Rs 9.24 lakh crore; Net: Rs 7.42 lakh crore.
Non-Corporate Tax Gross: Rs 9.53 lakh crore; Net: Rs 7.97 lakh crore.
Securities Transaction Tax (STT) Rs 40,114 crore, up from Rs 21,628 crore last year.
ITR Filing Stats FY24: 8.09 crore returns; 6.68% of the population filed returns.
Zero Taxable Income 4.90 crore individuals in AY23-24 reported zero taxable income.

Important Days in December 2024, National and International Days

December, the last month of the year, is a month full of important days that highlight awareness, achievements, and celebrations around the world. These days focus on topics like human rights, environmental protection, and honoring national heroes. From World AIDS Day to Christmas, each date has a special meaning, reminding us of unity, kindness, and responsibility.

Important Days in December 2024

December is a month of joy, celebrations, and meaningful events worldwide. It brings festive cheer, short winter days in the northern hemisphere, and special occasions. Christmas on December 25th, celebrated by over 2.2 billion people, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Kwanzaa, from December 26th to January 1st, honors African traditions. December ends with New Year’s Eve on the 31st, a global celebration of hope and resolutions. Its name comes from the Latin word “Decem,” meaning ten.

List of Important Days in December 2024, National and International Days

Date Day
01 Dec World AIDS Day
02 Dec International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
03 Dec International Day of Persons with Disabilities
04 Dec International Day of Banks
05 Dec International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
05 Dec World Soil Day
07 Dec International Civil Aviation Day
09 Dec International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
09 Dec International Anti-Corruption Day
10 Dec Human Rights Day
11 Dec International Mountain Day
11 Dec UNICEF Foundation Day
12 Dec International Day of Neutrality
12 Dec International Universal Health Coverage Day
18 Dec International Migrants Day
20 Dec International Human Solidarity Day
21 Dec World Basketball Day
27 Dec International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

 

Ace Your Exam 19th December Current Affairs Quiz

In competitive exams like SSC, Defence, State Exams, and Railways, current affairs serve as a cornerstone for success. These exams often include a dedicated section testing candidates on recent events, government policies, international developments, and scientific advancements. Staying updated with daily current affairs ensures aspirants have the edge to tackle this section with confidence, scoring high marks effortlessly.

Q1. Which Women cricketer has scored the fastest test century in Test International?

(a) Smriti Mandhana

(b) Nat Sciver-Brunt

(c) Ellyse Perry

(d) Laura Wolvaardt

Q2.  Which of the following is India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit?

(a) Kisan Kavach

(b) Kisan Suraksha

(c) Krishi Kavach

(d) Pesticide Protector

Q3. The Ram temple project in Ayodhya has been awarded which prestigious safety award?

(a) Sword of Honour

(b) Safety Excellence Award

(c) Global Safety Medal

(d) Construction Safety Award

Q4. The Gadhimai Festival is held in which country?

(a) India

(b) Nepal

(c) Bangladesh

(d) Sri Lanka

Q5. Who was awarded the prestigious Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ)?

(a) Ratan Tata

(b) Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

(c) N. R. Narayana Murthy

(d) Sundar Pichai

Q6.  Which ministry launched a scheme to promote international cooperation for AYUSH systems worldwide?

(a) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

(b) Ministry of AYUSH

(c) Ministry of External Affairs

(d) Ministry of Science and Technology

Q7. In which city was Uber’s ‘Moto Women’ pilot program launched?

(a) Mumbai

(b) Bengaluru

(c) Hyderabad

(d) Chennai

Q8. What is the theme for International Migrants Day in 2024?

(a) “Empowering Migrants for the Future”

(b) “Strengthening Global Solidarity”

(c) “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights”

(d) “Building Inclusive Communities”

Q9. Who won The Best FIFA Men’s Player award in 2024?

(a) Rodri

(b) Jude Bellingham

(c) Vinicius Jr.

(d) Erling Haaland

Q10. Which organization primarily uses the SARAT tool?

(a) National Institute of Oceanography

(b) Indian Coast Guard

(c) Ministry of Shipping

(d) Indian Navy

S1. Ans. (b)

Sol. England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt became the first and only woman cricketer to score a Test century in less than 100 balls, reaching her hundred off just 96 balls.

Correct Answer: Nat Sciver Brunt

Key Points: 

  • Earlier Record: The previous record held by Chamani Seneviratna, who scored a century in 106 balls against Pakistan in 1998.

S2. Ans. (a)

Sol. Kisan Kavach is India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit, developed by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. The launch aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of leveraging science and technology to empower India’s agricultural community.

Correct Answer: Kisan Kavach

Key Points: 

  • Objective: Designed to protect farmers from harmful pesticide exposure.
  • Addresses severe health issues such as breathing disorders, vision loss, and fatalities.
  • Minister of Agriculture: Shivraj Singh Chauhan
  • Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology: Dr. Jitendra Singh

S3. Ans. (a)

Sol. The Ram temple project in Ayodhya was awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’ from the British Safety Council for its exceptional safety measures during construction..

Correct Answer: Sword of Honour

Key Points:

  • What is the Sword of Honour?: The ‘Sword of Honour’ is one of the most prestigious awards in safety management.
  • It is conferred by the British Safety Council after an exhaustive audit of processes and practices.
  • Eligibility requires achieving a five-star assessment, followed by a rigorous on-site activity assessment.

S4. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Gadhimai Festival is held every five years in southeastern Nepal. The Gadhimai Festival, held every five years in southeastern Nepal, is one of the world’s most controversial religious observances, known for the mass slaughter of animals. This quinquennial event, rooted in centuries of tradition. 

Correct Answer: Nepal

Key Points: 

  • Founder: Bhagwan Chowdhary, founder of the Gadhimai temple in Bariyarpur, Bara District, Nepal.
  • Mythology: According to the legend, Gadhimai, the goddess of power, promised prosperity to Chowdhary in exchange for a blood sacrifice.
  • Animal Sacrifice: Initially, human blood was desired, but animal blood was substituted, which became the foundation of the tradition.

S5. Ans. (b)

Sol. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon Group, was awarded the Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ) for her contributions to the biosciences sector. The award recognises her role in leading Biocon to a global position while maintaining an unwavering focus on quality. 

Correct Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

Key Points:

  • Award Background: The Jamsetji Tata Award, instituted by ISQ in 2004, is named after Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group, and celebrates business leaders who have demonstrated exceptional quality, innovation, and commitment to society. 
  • Award Details: The award was presented during the ISQ Annual Conference 2024, held in Bengaluru.

S6. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Ministry of AYUSH launched the scheme to promote international cooperation and enhance awareness of AYUSH systems globally.

Correct Answer: Ministry of AYUSH

Key Points: 

  • Objective: The scheme’s objectives are to promote international awareness of AYUSH, facilitate its development and recognition abroad, foster interaction among stakeholders, and support the market development of AYUSH products, services, education, and research globally. 
  • Scholarships: Offers scholarships for foreign nationals to study AYUSH courses in India.

S7. Ans. (b)

Sol. The pilot program ‘Moto Women’ was launched in Bengaluru. This service is exclusively designed for female riders and drivers, offering an on-demand bike taxi option with an emphasis on safety and empowerment. 

Correct Answer: Bengaluru

Key Points:

  • Significance: Provides a safer transport option for women.
  • Empowerment of female drivers, offering flexible earning opportunities.
  • Part of the growing demand for bike taxis in Bengaluru, with over 1 million monthly rides.
  • Development: Uber, in collaboration with female drivers, launched the service in Bengaluru as a pilot program.

S8. Ans. (c)

Sol. International Migrants Day, observed annually on December 18, serves as an important reminder to honor the contributions of migrants around the world and the role they play in shaping societies. The 2024 theme is “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights.” 

Correct Answer: “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights”

Key Points:

  • Purpose: Celebrate the invaluable contributions of migrants to host societies and their home countries.
  • Raise awareness about the challenges migrants face, including exploitation, rights violations, and integration difficulties.

S9. Ans. (c)

Sol. Vinicius Jr won The Best FIFA Men’s Player award with 48 points. Vinicius Jr claimed his first Best Men’s Player award, topping the voting with strong support from fans, coaches, and players.

Correct Answer: Vinicius Jr.

Key Points:

  • The Best FIFA Men’s Player
  • Winner: Vinicius Jr (48 points)
  • Second: Rodri (43 points)
  • Third: Jude Bellingham (37 points)
  • Date 2016: 8 years ago
  • Presented by: FIFA
  • Formerly called: FIFA World Player of the Year (1991–2009)
  • FIFA Ballon d’Or:  (2010–2015)
  • First awarded : 2016

S10. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has recently upgraded its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to improve the effectiveness of sea rescue operations. 

Correct Answer: Indian Coast Guard

Key Points:

  • Objective of SARAT: Aimed at enhancing sea rescue operations conducted by Indian agencies, including the Coast Guard.
  • SARAT Version 2 Features: Includes improved visuals with colour-coded search regions.
  • Background of SARAT: First introduced in 2016, initially designed to assist the Indian Coast Guard.

What is the Old Name of Karnataka?

Karnataka, a state in southern India, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes. Over the centuries, it has undergone several changes in its name and identity. These transformations reflect the region’s historical evolution, cultural shifts and political changes.

Old Name of Karnataka

The state of Karnataka was earlier known as Mysore state. The name was officially changed to Karnataka in 1973 under the Mysore State (Alteration of Name) Act. This marked an important moment in the state’s history, reflecting its rich cultural and linguistic identity.

Historical Connection to the Kingdom of Mysore

The region was once a part of the Kingdom of Mysore, ruled by the Wadiyar Dynasty. The Mysore Palace, a symbol of the Kingdom’s legacy, was the royal residence of the Wadiyars. In 1799, the Kingdom of Mysore signed a Protectorate treaty with the British Empire, which significantly influenced its history.

Formation of Karnataka

Karnataka was formed on November 01, 1956, after the States Reorganization Act was passed. This act reorganized India’s states based on linguistic and cultural similarities. Kannada-speaking regions were united to create a single state, originally called Mysore State.

Meaning of the Name Karnataka

The name Karnataka comes from the word Karunadu, which means “lofty land” or “high plateau.” In the Kannada language, it can also mean “land of black soil,” which highlights the state’s geography and agricultural importance.

The Karnataka Ekikarana Movement

The creation of Karnataka was the result of the Karnataka Ekikarana Movement. This movement fought for decades to unify Kannada-speaking regions that were scattered across different provinces and princely states. These efforts helped in forming a unified Kannada-speaking state.

Who is Known as the Father of Sociology?

Sociology is the study of society, human behavior and the way people interact with each other. It looks at how individuals and groups shape and are shaped by social structures, cultures and institutions. Sociologists explore topics like family, education, religion and government to better understand how societies function and change over time. In this article, we will know about the persons who is known as the “Father of Sociology.”

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of how people live together in society, how societies change, and how social factors influence human behavior. It look at many different topics, such as :

  • Crime and Law
  • Poverty and wealth
  • Prejudice and discrimination
  • Education
  • Business
  • Urban communities
  • Social movements
  • Population changes and migration
  • Economic development

The main purpose of sociology is to understand how people’s actions and thoughts are influenced by the culture and social systems around them.

Father of Sociology

The “Father of Sociology” is Auguste Comte, a French philosopher who developed the field of sociology and introduced the idea of positivism. He believed society could be studied scientifically, just like nature. Comte also created the Law of Three Stages, explaining how human societies evolve from religious beliefs to scientific understanding.

Early Life Auguste Comte

Auguste Comte, whose full name was Isidore Auguste-Marie-Francois-Xavier Comte, was born in France in the early 19th century. His father worked as an income tax officer and his mother was a strong supporter of the royal family. Raised in a Roman Catholic family, Comte was introduced to education at an early age and attended public school.

During his youth, Comte began earning money by tutoring students in mathematics, showing an early interest in teaching and learning. In 1820, he started giving lectures on what he later called the “System of Positive Philosophy.”

The Concept of Positivism

Auguste Comte is best known for creating the concept of positivism, which became the foundation of his sociology work. Positivism is the belief that knowledge should be based on scientific evidence and facts than speculation or religious beliefs. Comte believed that society could be understood and improved by studying it scientifically.

In the 19th century, society was going through many changes due to the French Revolution, modern science and the Industrial Revolution. People were experiencing a lot of confusion and hardship, and many turned to new ideas for answers. Comte’s positivism offered a scientific approach to understanding these changes.

The Law of Three Stages

One of Comte’s important contributions to sociology was his Law of Three Stages. This theory explained that human society develops in three stages:

  • Theological Stage: In this stage, people believed that everything in society was controlled by gods or religious beliefs.
  • Metaphysical Stage: During this time, people started to think about abstract ideas like nature and the universe, but without using scientific methods.
  • Positive Stage: This final stage is when people began to use scientific methods to understand society and the world around them.

Comte believed that society was moving from the theological stage to the metaphysical stage and then into the positive stage, where science and reason would guide social progress.

Personal Struggles and Contributions

Auguste Comte faced many challenges in his personal life. He suffered from a serious nervous breakdown in the late 1820s and went through a difficult period of recovery. Despite his personal struggles, he continued his work and made significant contributions to the field of sociology.

In 1845, Comte experienced a deep personal loss when his close companion, Chitilde de Vaux, died of tuberculosis. This event had a profound effect on him and influenced his work even further.

Which District of Gujarat is Known as the Oil City?

Gujarat is a state located in the western part of India. Known for its rich culture, history and diverse landscapes, it is also a hub for industries like petrochemicals, textiles and diamond processing. Gujarat plays a key role in India’s economic growth and development. In this article, we will know about the district of Gujarat which is known as the “Oil City.”

An Overview of Gujarat

Gujarat is a state located on the western coast of India, with the longest coastline of about 1,600 km. It is the fifth-largest state in terms of area and has a population of around 60 million. Gujarat is bordered by Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and the Arabian Sea. Gandhinagar is the capital and Ahmedabad is the largest city. The official language is Gujarati.

Number of Districts of Gujarat

Gujarat has 33 districts, which were formed in 1960 with just 17 districts. Over time, the state has been divided into more districts, which are further split into 252 talukas. Notable districts include Kutch, the largest, Dang, the smallest one and Ahmedabad is the most populated district.

Oil City in Gujarat

Jamnagar, located in the state of Gujarat, is famously known as the Oil City. It holds a significant place in the country’s industrial landscape, particularly due to its role in the oil refining sector.

Why is Jamnagar Known as the Oil City of Gujarat?

Jamnagar is called the Oil City of Gujarat because it is home to the world’s largest oil refinery, the Jamnagar Refinery. Owned by Reliance Industries, this refinery has a capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day. The city plays a key role in India’s oil processing industry, making it a major center for refining and energy production.

World’s Largest Oil Refinery

Jamnagar is home to the world’s largest oil refinery, the Jamnagar Refinery. Owned by Reliance Industries Limited, this refinery has an impressive capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day. It is one of the largest refining units globally, making Jamnagar a major hub for oil production and processing.

A Center of Culture and Craftsmanship

Apart from being an oil hub, Jamnagar is also known for its traditional craftsmanship. The city is famous for bandhani (tie-dyeing), a technique used to create colorful fabrics. The gold embroidery and metalware from Jamnagar are also highly regarded, adding to its cultural richess.

The Seat of Gujarat Ayurved University

Jamnagar is also an important center for Ayurveda education. The Gujarat Ayurved University, located in the city, is one of the leading institutions in the study and research of traditional Indian medicine.

The FIFA Best Awards 2024: Recognizing Excellence

The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 were held in Doha, Qatar, on December 17, where several individuals were honored for their exceptional performances throughout the year. The event recognized the best players, coaches, and goalkeepers in both men’s and women’s football, as well as other prestigious awards like the FIFA Puskás Award and FIFA Fan Award. The awards were determined by a voting system that included national team coaches, captains, media members, and fans, all of whom contributed to crowning the winners.

FIFA The Best Award 2024 Highlights

The Best FIFA Men’s Player

  • Winner: Vinicius Jr (48 points)
  • Second: Rodri (43 points)
  • Third: Jude Bellingham (37 points)
  • Vinicius Jr claimed his first Best Men’s Player award, topping the voting with strong support from fans, coaches, and players.

The Best FIFA Women’s Player

  • Winner: Aitana Bonmati (52 points)
  • Second: Barbra Banda (39 points)
  • Third: Caroline Graham Hansen (37 points)
  • Bonmati retained her title, earning overwhelming support across all categories.

The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper

  • Winner: Emiliano Martinez (26 points)
  • Second: Ederson (16 points)
  • Third: Unai Simon (13 points)
  • Martinez regained the title with strong backing from Argentine figures.

The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper

  • Winner: Alyssa Naeher (26 points)
  • Second: Cata Coll (22 points)
  • Third: Mary Earps (11 points)
  • Naeher’s excellent performances were recognized with the highest voting support.

The Best FIFA Men’s Coach

  • Winner: Carlo Ancelotti (26 points)
  • Second: Xabi Alonso (22 points)
  • Third: Luis de la Fuente (11 points)
  • Ancelotti earned his first Best Men’s Coach award for his successful career, including Real Madrid’s triumphs.

The Best FIFA Women’s Coach

  • Winner: Emma Hayes (23 points)
  • Second: Jonatan Giraldez (20 points)
  • Third: Arthur Elias (13 points)
  • Hayes was honored for her leadership and achievements with Chelsea FC.

The FIFA Puskás Award

  • Winner: Alejandro Garnacho (26 points)
  • Second: Yassine Benzia (22 points)
  • Third: Denis Omedi (16 points)
  • Garnacho’s stunning goal won him the prestigious award for the best goal of the year.

The FIFA Marta Award

  • Winner: Marta (22 points)
  • Second: Asisat Oshoala (20 points)
  • Third: Sakina Karchaoui (16 points)
  • The award celebrated the iconic Brazilian player’s remarkable contribution to football.

The FIFA Fan Award

  • Winner: Guilherme Gandra Moura

The FIFA Fair Play Award

  • Winner: Thiago Maia

The Best FIFA Men’s 11 

  • Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez 
  • Defenders: Ruben Dias, Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, William Saliba 
  • Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Rodri, Toni Kroos 
  • Forwards: Erling Haaland, Lamine Yamal, Vinicius Junior 

The Best FIFA Women’s 11 

  • Goalkeeper: Alyssa Naeher 
  • Defenders: Irene Paredes, Ona Batlle, Lucy Bronze, Naomi Girma 
  • Midfielders: Aitana Bonmati, Lindsey Horan, Gabi Portilho, Patri Guijarro 
  • Forwards: Caroline Graham Hansen, Salma Paralluelo 
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? FIFA The Best Awards 2024 Announced
The Best FIFA Men’s Player Winner: Vinicius Jr (48 points), 

Second: Rodri (43), 

Third: Bellingham (37)
The Best FIFA Women’s Player Winner: Aitana Bonmati (52 points), 

Second: Barbra Banda (39), 

Third: Hansen (37)
The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper Winner: Emiliano Martinez (26 points), Second: Ederson (16), 

Third: Simon (13)
The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper Winner: Alyssa Naeher (26 points), 

Second: Cata Coll (22), 

Third: Earps (11)
The Best FIFA Men’s Coach Winner: Carlo Ancelotti (26 points), 

Second: Xabi Alonso (22), 

Third: de la Fuente (11)
The Best FIFA Women’s Coach Winner: Emma Hayes (23 points), 

Second: Jonatan Giraldez (20), 

Third: Elias (13)
The FIFA Puskás Award Winner: Alejandro Garnacho (26 points), 

Second: Benzia (22), 

Third: Omedi (16)
The FIFA Marta Award Winner: Marta (22 points), 

Second: Oshoala (20), 

Third: Karchaoui (16)
The FIFA Fan Award Guilherme Gandra Moura
The FIFA Fair Play Award Thiago Maia
The Best FIFA Men’s 11, 2024 Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez, 

Defenders: Dias, Carvajal, Rudiger, Saliba, Midfielders: Bellingham, Rodri, Kroos, Forwards: Haaland, Yamal, Vinicius Jr
The Best FIFA Women’s 11, 2024 Goalkeeper: Alyssa Naeher, 

Defenders: Paredes, Batlle, Bronze, Girma, Midfielders: Bonmati, Horan, Portilho, Guijarro, 

Forwards: Hansen, Paralluelo

International Migrants Day 2024

International Migrants Day, observed annually on December 18, serves as an important reminder to honor the contributions of migrants around the world and the role they play in shaping societies. In 2024, the day will be observed under the theme, “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights.” This day also sheds light on the challenges migrants face, including their rights, integration, and exploitation, while emphasizing the need for fair and inclusive migration policies.

Key Points

  • Date of Observation: December 18, annually.
  • Theme for 2024: “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights” (European Parliament).

Purpose

  • Celebrate the invaluable contributions of migrants to host societies and their home countries.
  • Raise awareness about the challenges migrants face, including exploitation, rights violations, and integration difficulties.
  • Advocate for fair and inclusive migration policies that protect migrants’ dignity and human rights.

Contributions of Migrants

  • Labour Market: Migrants play a crucial role in filling skills gaps, addressing demographic challenges in aging societies, and driving innovation and entrepreneurship.
  • Economic Growth: They contribute significantly to economic growth and development by providing a lifeline to families back home and boosting productivity in host countries.
  • Cultural and Social Impact: Migrants enrich cultural diversity and foster global connections that enhance social cohesion.

Migration Challenges

  • Displacement: Conflicts, climate change, and economic pressures drive millions of people to migrate in search of safety and opportunities.
  • Humanitarian Needs: The past year saw rising displacement, increasing humanitarian needs, and tragic migrant deaths during transit.
  • Exploitation: Migrants often face exploitation, discrimination, and violations of their rights, both during migration and in their host countries.

History and Significance

  • Establishment: International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000 to raise awareness about migrants and their rights.
  • International Convention: The United Nations adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families in 1990, which came into force in 2003. 
  • This convention aims to protect migrant workers and their families, ensuring their rights are upheld, regardless of status or location.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? International Migrants Day 2024
Date December 18, annually
Theme for 2024 “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights” (European Parliament)
Purpose – Celebrate migrants’ contributions to societies and economies.

– Raise awareness of migrants’ challenges, rights, and exploitation.

– Advocate for fair, inclusive migration policies.
Contributions of Migrants – Labour Market: Filling skill gaps, addressing demographic challenges, driving innovation.

– Economic Growth: Boosting productivity, providing financial support to families back home.

– Cultural Impact: Enriching cultural diversity, fostering global connections.
Migration Challenges – Humanitarian Needs: Rising displacement and increasing migrant deaths in transit.

– Exploitation: Migrants face discrimination, rights violations, and unsafe working conditions.
History & Significance – Establishment: Created by the UN in 2000 to raise awareness about migrant rights.

– International Convention: UN’s 1990 convention on migrant worker rights came into force in 2003.
Conclusion Advocates for a safe, orderly, and inclusive migration system that supports migrant rights and benefits society.

Nat Sciver-Brunt Sets Record for Fastest Test Century

On December 15, 2024, England made history at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein, South Africa, with Nat Sciver-Brunt and Maia Bouchier setting remarkable records in women’s cricket. Sciver-Brunt smashed the fastest Test century by a woman, while Bouchier marked her Test debut with a century. Their aggressive performances placed England in a commanding position, but both were dismissed before converting their hundreds into bigger scores.

Nat Sciver-Brunt’s Historic Fastest Test Century

  • Sciver-Brunt became the first and only woman cricketer to score a Test century in less than 100 balls, reaching her hundred off just 96 balls.
  • This feat broke the previous record held by Sri Lanka’s Chamani Seneviratna, who had scored a century off 106 balls in 1998.
  • Sciver-Brunt’s record-setting knock ended at 128 runs when she was run out, but her performance set a new benchmark in women’s Test cricket.

Historic Context

  • The match marked the first women’s Test in South Africa in 22 years.
  • England’s performance was notable on a flat pitch, with the bowlers from South Africa struggling to maintain control.

England’s Test Match History

  • England has not won a women’s Test in a decade, with their last victory coming in 2014 against India in Scarborough.
  • The rarity of women’s Tests, often limited to four-day matches, has resulted in many games ending in draws rather than outright victories.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Nat Sciver-Brunt Sets Record for Fastest Test Century
Record Set by Nat Sciver-Brunt Scored the fastest Test century by a woman, reaching 100 runs off just 96 balls.
Previous Record Holder Chamani Seneviratna (Sri Lanka) with 106 balls in 1998.
Sciver-Brunt’s Final Score She was dismissed for 128 runs after being run out, setting a new benchmark for women’s Test cricket.
Historic Context The match was the first women’s Test in South Africa in 22 years.

Pandit Sanjay Marathe, Renowned Singer and Musician, Passes Away

Pandit Sanjay Ram Marathe, a distinguished classical singer and harmonium artist, passed away on December 15, 2024, at the age of 68 due to a severe heart attack. His death occurred at a private hospital in Thane, Maharashtra. He was the eldest son of the legendary musician Pandit Ram Marathe and leaves behind a profound legacy in Indian classical music and theatre.

Key Points

  • Date of Passing: December 15, 2024 (Sunday night)
  • Age: 68
  • Cause of Death: Severe heart attack
  • Location: Private hospital in Thane, Maharashtra
  • Family: Survived by his wife, son, and granddaughter
  • Legacy: Renowned for his expertise in classical singing and harmonium.
  • Father: Eldest son of Pandit Ram Marathe, a celebrated musician

Contribution to Music

  • Highly respected in Indian classical music and theatre
  • Known for melodious singing and harmonium performances
  • Actively participated in the centenary celebrations of his father’s birth

Revival of Marathi Musical Theatre

  • Collaborated with his younger brother, Mukund Marathe, to revive and stage the famous Marathi musical play ‘Sangeet Mandarmala’ for their father’s centenary commemoration.
  • The production was praised for blending innovative experiments with traditional Marathi musical theatre.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Pandit Sanjay Marathe, Renowned Singer and Musician, Passes Away
Specialization Classical singing and harmonium
Contributions to Music – Highly respected in Indian classical music and theatre

– Known for melodious singing and expertise in harmonium

– Actively participated in centenary celebrations of his father
Theatre Contribution – Revived and staged ‘Sangeet Mandarmala’ with his brother Mukund Marathe in their father’s centenary

– Production received acclaim for blending innovation with traditional Marathi theatre
Legacy Leaves behind a legacy in classical music and theatre that continues to inspire future generations.

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