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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.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Wins Jamsetji Tata Award for Biosciences Leadership

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon Group, was awarded the prestigious Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ) for her exceptional contributions to the biosciences sector in India. The award recognises her role in leading Biocon to a global position while maintaining an unwavering focus on quality. This recognition highlights her pioneering efforts since 1978 in establishing Biocon as a world leader in the biotechnology industry, and her impact on patients worldwide.

Award Significance and Legacy

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. Mazumdar-Shaw’s dedication to these values mirrors Jamsetji Tata’s own legacy, making this award particularly meaningful to her.

Award Ceremony and Key Figures

The award was presented during the ISQ Annual Conference 2024, held in Bengaluru. Key dignitaries present at the event included Janak Kumar Mehta, President of ISQ; B. Muthuraman, former Vice Chairman of Tata Steel; and Dr. K. N. Subramanya, Principal of R.V. College of Engineering and President of ISQ’s Bengaluru Chapter. Mazumdar-Shaw expressed gratitude, stating that the award is a recognition of her journey and the collective effort of her exceptional team at Biocon.

Mazumdar-Shaw’s Statement

Mazumdar-Shaw shared her deep connection to the award, noting that Jamsetji Tata’s vision of excellence and nation-building strongly resonates with her own commitment to transforming India’s biosciences landscape. She emphasized Biocon’s ongoing pursuit of the highest quality in its products and services, underscoring the shared passion for excellence within her team.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw awarded Jamsetji Tata Award – Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon, awarded the Jamsetji Tata Award by ISQ for pioneering the biosciences movement in India.
– Awarded for significant contributions to quality and commitment in business and society.
Jamsetji Tata Award – Instituted by ISQ in 2004.
– Recognizes business leaders for outstanding contributions to Indian society and a focus on quality.
– Named after Jamsetji Tata, founder of the Tata Group.
Event Details – Award announced at ISQ Annual Conference 2024, Bengaluru.
– Presented by Janak Kumar Mehta (President, ISQ), B. Muthuraman (Former Vice Chairman, Tata Steel), and Dr. K. N. Subramanya (Principal, R V College of Engineering).
Mazumdar-Shaw’s Statement – Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted Jamsetji Tata’s legacy of excellence, innovation, and nation-building.
– Stressed Biocon’s continuous pursuit of quality and excellence.
Biocon’s Role – Biocon Group established in 1978 by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw.
– Major contributor to the global biotechnology sector, with a focus on healthcare and biosciences.

RBI Lifts Restrictions on Edelweiss Group’s ECL Finance and ARC

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has lifted the supervisory restrictions on two entities of the Edelweiss Group—ECL Finance Ltd and Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd (Edelweiss ARC). These restrictions were imposed in May 2024 due to concerns over regulatory compliance. After significant engagement and corrective actions by the companies, the RBI is satisfied with their adherence to regulatory norms and has allowed their normal operations to resume.

Overview of Restrictions and Post-Restriction Status

ECL Finance Ltd: In May 2024, ECL Finance was prohibited from conducting structured transactions involving wholesale exposures, except for closures or repayments. This restriction has now been lifted, allowing ECL Finance to resume its normal operations.

Edelweiss ARC: Edelweiss ARC faced a halt in acquiring financial assets and reorganizing security receipts under the SARFAESI Act. With the implementation of corrective measures, these restrictions have been removed, and Edelweiss ARC can now resume its business operations.

Compliance Measures and Market Reaction

Both entities worked closely with the RBI to address regulatory concerns by streamlining processes and committing to sustained compliance. As a result, market sentiment turned positive, with Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd’s share price rising by 7.76% to ₹138.80 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), signaling increased investor confidence.

Background on the Restrictions

The initial restrictions in May 2024 were linked to concerns over “structured transactions” aimed at evergreening distressed loans—practices that masked the true extent of stressed assets. The RBI had flagged such actions, emphasizing the need for transparency in financial practices.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
RBI lifts restrictions on Edelweiss Group entities (ECL Finance Ltd and Edelweiss ARC) – Restrictions lifted due to compliance with regulatory norms.
– Previous restrictions due to “structured transactions” aimed at evergreening distressed loans.
– Entities worked with RBI to implement corrective measures.
– Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd share price rose by 7.76% post-announcement.
Entities Involved – ECL Finance Ltd: Engaged in wholesale exposures, restricted from structured transactions.
– Edelweiss ARC: Restricted from acquiring financial assets and reorganizing security receipts under the SARFAESI Act.
RBI Actions – Imposed restrictions in May 2024 due to regulatory concerns over masked stressed assets.
– Restrictions removed after remedial actions and sustained compliance.
Related Acts – RBI Act, 1934: Governs the RBI’s powers in regulating financial institutions.
– SARFAESI Act, 2002: Allows financial institutions to auction properties to recover loans.
Market Reaction – Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd stock price increased by 7.76% post-restriction removal.
Evergreening – Practice of extending new loans to stressed borrowers to repay old loans, masking distressed assets.
Corrective Measures – Entities streamlined processes and committed to sustained compliance with regulatory guidelines.

India Promotes AYUSH Systems Globally with New Chairs in Five Countries

The Ministry of AYUSH has launched a scheme for the promotion of international cooperation to enhance awareness and recognition of AYUSH systems worldwide. As part of this initiative, India has established AYUSH Chairs at five foreign universities—Bangladesh, Australia, Mauritius, Latvia, and Malaysia. This effort is aimed at advancing academic exchange, research, and public awareness of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy, contributing to their global acceptance.

Key Objectives and Scope of the Scheme

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. In addition, the Ministry supports the establishment of AYUSH academic chairs in foreign countries to boost academic collaboration and research.

Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives

The Ministry has signed 24 MoUs with foreign countries for cooperation in traditional medicine, including 15 MoUs with international institutes for setting up AYUSH Chairs. This is part of a broader effort to strengthen the global presence of AYUSH. The Ministry also offers scholarships for foreign nationals to study AYUSH in India and has established 42 AYUSH Information Cells in 38 countries.

AYUSH Chairs’ Role and Function

The AYUSH Chairs are part of India’s ongoing efforts to integrate AYUSH into global health systems. These Chairs promote research and education on AYUSH systems, advancing their recognition in the host countries. Under this initiative, Indian experts are deployed at foreign institutions, and the Ministry provides financial support, including salaries and travel expenses, while the host university offers accommodation and local hospitality.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India opens AYUSH Chairs in five countries 1. Ministry of AYUSH launched a scheme to promote global recognition of AYUSH systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, Homoeopathy).
2. AYUSH Chairs established in Bangladesh, Australia, Mauritius, Latvia, and Malaysia.
3. The aim is to advance academic exchange, research, and awareness of AYUSH globally.
4. The Ministry of AYUSH has signed 15 MoUs with international institutes for setting up AYUSH Chairs.
5. AYUSH Chairs are supported by the Ministry with salary and travel costs; host universities provide accommodation and local hospitality.
6. The Ministry has signed 24 MoUs with foreign countries for cooperation in traditional medicine and homoeopathy.
Ministry of AYUSH 1. The Ministry promotes AYUSH systems globally through collaborations, international scholarships, and research programs.
Key Initiatives 1. AYUSH Export Promotion Council (AYUSHEXCIL).
2. Celebrates Yoga Day and Ayurveda Day worldwide.
AYUSH Academic Chairs 1. Chairs aim to foster collaboration, research, and recognition of AYUSH systems.
2. Experts are deputed to foreign universities, with tenure of 1 year, extendable up to 3 years.
International Cooperation 1. Signed 24 MoUs with countries for traditional medicine and homoeopathy.
2. Supports the establishment of AYUSH Information Cells in 38 countries.
Scholarships 1. Offers scholarships for foreign nationals to study AYUSH courses in India.

Top-10 Best Selling Books of All Time, Check the Name and Details

Some books become more than just stories; they become timeless treasures loved by readers worldwide. These best-selling books have sold millions of copies, capturing hearts with their unforgettable characters and powerful messages. From epic adventures to heartfelt tales, here are the top-10 best-selling books of all time that continue to inspire and entertain.

Top-10 Best Selling Books of All Time

Some books have changed the world by selling millions to billions of copies. These best-sellers include religious texts and literacy masterpieces that have influenced cultures and inspired readers worldwide.

Here is the list of top-10 best selling books of all time:

Rank Book Title  Estimated Copies Sold 
1. The Bible 5 to 7 billion
2. Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung 900 million
3. The Quran 800 million -3 billion
4. Don Quixote 500 million
5. A Tale of Two Cities 200 million
6. The Lord of the Rings 150 million
7. The Little Prince 140 million
8. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone 120 million
9. And Then There Were None 100 million
10. Dream of the Red Chamber 100 million

The Bible, Best Selling Book

No. of Copies Sold: 5 to 7 billion

The Bible is a sacred collection of texts for Christianity, Judaism, Islam and other Abrahamic faiths. Originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, it includes stories, instructions, poetry and prophecies. Different religions groups have varying versions of the Bible, interpreting it as divinely inspired in unique ways.

Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung

No. of Copies Sold: 900 million

Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung, or the Little Red Book, is a collection of Mao Zedong’s statements from his speeches and writings. Published between 1964 to 1979, it gained prominence during China’s Cultural Revolution, often printed in small, portable red-bound editions that symbolized Maoist ideology.

The Quran

No. of Copies Sold: 800 million to 3 billion

The Quran, Islam’s central religious text, is believed by Muslims to be a divine revelation to Prophet Muhammad over 23 years. Comprising 114 chapters, it is revered as a masterpiece of Arabic literature and a comprehensive guide for life. Compiled after Muhammad’s death, forms the foundation of Islamic teachings, law and spirituality.

Don Quixote

No. of Copies Sold: 500 million

Don Quixote, a novel by Miguel de Cervantes, follows Alonso Quijano, an elderly man who becomes delusional after reading chivalric tales. He adopts the name Don Quixote and sets out to revive knighthood with his squire, Sancho Panza. Published in two parts (1605, 1615), it is considered one of the first modern novels and a major influence on Western literature.

A Tale of Two Cities

No. of Copies Sold: 200 million

“A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens, published in 1859, is set during the French Revolution. It follows Dr. Manette, who is released after 18 years in the Bastille, and his reunion with his daughter Lucie in London. The novel explores themes of revolution, sacrifice, and resurrection and is one of the best-selling books of all time.

The Lord of the Rings

No. of Copies sold: 150 million

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien is an epic fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. It follows hobbit Frodo and his companions as they embark on a quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron. First published in three volumes from 1954 to 1955, it is one of the best-selling books ever, shaping modern fantasy.

The Little Prince

No. of Copies Sold: 140 million

“The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery is a novella about a young prince who travels to different planets, including Earth, exploring themes like loneliness, love and human nature. First published in 1943, it became Saint-Exupery’s most famous work, selling over 140 million copies and being translated into more than 505 languages.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

No. of Copies Sold: 120 million

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling is the first book in the Harry Potter series. It follows Harry, a young wizard who learns about his magical heritage and attends Hogwarts School. With his friends, Harry faces the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. The book, published in 1997, has sold over 120 million copies worldwide and inspired films and operations.

And Then There Were None

No. of Copies Sold: 100 million

“And Then There Were None” is a mystery novel by Agatha Christie, first published in 1939. The story follows ten strangers who are invited to an isolated island, where they are killed one by one. It is the best-selling mystery novel in the world, with over 100 million copies sold, making it one of the best-selling books ever.

Dream of the Red Chamber

No. of Copies Sold: 100 million

“Dream of the Red Chamber” is an 18th century Chinese novel by Cao Xueqin. It explores the rise and fall of a wealthy family, reflecting the social and cultural life of High Qing China. The novel also delves into philosophical and religious themes and honors the women in Cao’s life. It is considered one of China’s Four Great Classical Novels.

 

Uber Unveils ‘Moto Women’ Bike Taxis for Women in Bengaluru

In a move to enhance safety and inclusivity in urban mobility, Uber has launched a pilot program called ‘Moto Women’ 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. With growing concerns over the uncertainty of bike taxi operations in Karnataka, this initiative aims to provide a safer, more flexible earning opportunity for women while addressing key issues like safety, privacy, and public transport integration.

Exclusive Service for Women

  • The ‘Moto Women’ service connects female riders with female drivers, providing a more secure and comfortable transportation option.
  • The initiative currently employs around 300 women drivers.

Empowerment of Female Drivers

  • Uber emphasizes not just the safety of riders, but also the empowerment of women drivers, allowing them to earn flexibly in a fast-growing segment of India’s mobility sector.
  • Abhishek Padhye, Uber’s Head of Regional Business Operations for India and South Asia, stated that Bengaluru is a pioneering city for innovation in urban mobility.

Significance in Urban Mobility

  • The rise of bike taxis in urban India, particularly in Bengaluru, which records over 1 million rides per month, highlights the growing demand for such services.
  • A KPMG report found that in 2022, over 280 million bike taxi rides were completed across platforms in India, with 65%-70% of trips focusing on first-and-last-mile connectivity, showing the importance of bike taxis in supplementing public transport.

Safety Features of Uber Moto Women

Trip Tracking and Privacy

  • Riders can share their trip details with up to five trusted contacts for real-time tracking, ensuring their safety.
  • The app anonymizes phone numbers and drop-off addresses to protect user privacy.

RideCheck and 24×7 Safety Helpline

  • The RideCheck feature proactively monitors irregularities such as long stops, route deviations, or mid-way drops, providing timely assistance.
  • Both riders and drivers have access to Uber’s 24×7 Safety Helpline for priority support when needed.

Challenges Faced by Women Drivers

Regulatory and Commission Concerns

  • Women bike taxi drivers have expressed concerns over high commission rates and called for reduced charges, especially since this is a women-centric initiative.
  • Some drivers, like Shilpa Vishwanath, also highlighted challenges from other transport sectors, such as auto drivers who claim bike taxis are illegal, leading to conflicts.

Support and Positive Impact

  • Despite the challenges, women drivers have reported positive experiences, citing the financial benefits of the job. 
  • Drivers like Geetha P. have found the service beneficial for supplementing their income, with the added comfort of serving women-only passengers.

Future Outlook

Pilot Program Expansion

  • The service is currently available in select locations, with plans to expand based on the success of the pilot, feedback from riders, and demand patterns.
  • Uber aims to set a benchmark for inclusive urban mobility, particularly for women, with plans for scalability and wider access.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Uber Unveils ‘Moto Women’ Bike Taxis for Women in Bengaluru
Service Name Moto Women
Target Audience Women riders and women drivers
Development Uber, in collaboration with female drivers, launched the service in Bengaluru as a pilot program.
Key Features – Female riders paired with female drivers.

– 300 women drivers involved in the service.

– Service includes trip tracking, privacy features, and safety helpline.
Safety Features – Riders can share trip details with trusted contacts.

– RideCheck feature monitors irregularities like route deviations or long stops.

– 24×7 Safety Helpline for both drivers and riders.
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.
Challenges Faced by Drivers – High commission charges, with a call for lower fees for women-centric initiatives.

– Conflicts with auto drivers over the legality of bike taxis.
Feedback from Drivers – Positive impact for women drivers supplementing income, but concerns over regulatory issues.
Expansion Plans – Pilot program in selected locations, with plans for future expansion based on feedback and demand.
Future Outlook – Potential for scalability to enhance accessibility and strengthen inclusive urban mobility.

Bumrah Surpasses Kapil Dev to Become India’s Top Wicket-Taker in Australia

Jasprit Bumrah etched his name in history by becoming India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket on Australian soil, surpassing the legendary Kapil Dev’s tally of 51 wickets. This milestone was achieved on December 18, 2024, during the fifth day of the ongoing third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane. Bumrah now has 52 wickets in Australia, making him the Indian bowler with the most Test wickets in the country, highlighting his crucial role in India’s pace attack.

Bumrah’s Record-Breaking Feat

Bumrah reached the landmark by dismissing Marnus Labuschagne on the fifth day of the third Test. The 31-year-old pacer has now taken 52 wickets in 20 innings, averaging 17.21, with three five-wicket hauls to his name. Kapil Dev, in comparison, took 51 wickets in 11 Tests at an average of 24.58.

Dominance in the Gabba Test and the Series

Bumrah has been the standout performer in the ongoing series, claiming 21 wickets in just six innings at an outstanding average of 10.71. His recent performance has included two five-wicket hauls, one of which came in the first innings of this Test at Brisbane. This has placed him among the most successful Indian bowlers in Australia.

Past and Present Comparison

Bumrah’s record-breaking achievement not only surpasses Kapil Dev but also sets a new benchmark for future Indian bowlers. Bumrah has surpassed Kapil’s total of 51 wickets, and with 52 wickets in just 10 Test matches, Bumrah is now the leading wicket-taker in Australia by an Indian player. Kapil Dev and Bumrah are the only Indians to have taken 50 or more wickets in Australia, with Anil Kumble sitting third at 49 wickets.

Bumrah’s Growing Legacy

The right-arm pacer is also just seven wickets away from becoming the sixth pacer and 12th Indian to take 200 Test wickets. He is currently on 193 wickets, and his consistent performance in Australia solidifies his status as one of the finest pacers in Indian cricket history.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Jasprit Bumrah becomes India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests in Australia Bumrah surpassed Kapil Dev’s record of 51 wickets in Australia with 52 wickets.
Bumrah’s Record Bumrah took 52 wickets in 10 Test matches in Australia at an average of 17.21.
Bumrah’s Milestone Bumrah achieved this record on December 18, 2024, during the third Test at The Gabba.
Bumrah vs Kapil Dev Bumrah’s tally of 52 wickets exceeds Kapil Dev’s 51 wickets from 11 Tests.
Bumrah’s Performance in the Series Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 21 wickets in 6 innings.
Bumrah’s Total Wickets in Tests Bumrah currently has 193 wickets in Test cricket, needs 7 more to reach 200 wickets.
Bumrah’s Best Figures Bumrah’s career-best figures in Australia are 6/33 during the 2018/19 tour.
Kapil Dev’s Stats in Australia Kapil Dev took 51 wickets in 11 Tests in Australia at an average of 24.58.
Top Indian Bowlers in Australia Bumrah (52 wickets), Kapil Dev (51 wickets), Anil Kumble (49 wickets).
Bumrah’s Five-Wicket Hauls Bumrah has 3 five-wicket hauls in Australia.
Bumrah’s Role in the Third Test Bumrah took 2 wickets in the second innings, surpassing Kapil Dev’s record.
India’s Best Performers in Australia Bumrah is the only Indian bowler with 50+ wickets in Australia along with Kapil Dev.

What Is the Gadhimai Festival and Why Is It Controversial?

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, draws hundreds of thousands of Hindus who believe the ritual will appease the Hindu goddess Gadhimai, bringing them prosperity. However, the festival’s massive scale and the cruelty involved have sparked fierce debates between animal rights activists and devotees. Despite legal challenges and public outcry, the festival’s bloodshed continues, raising important questions about the intersection of religion, tradition, and animal welfare.

Key Points on the Gadhimai Festival

Origins and Beliefs

  • 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.

Rituals and Scale of the Sacrifice

  • Animal Sacrifice: The festival includes the slaughter of a variety of animals, including rats, pigeons, goats, and water buffaloes.
  • Estimates: In the 2019 festival, around 250,000 animals were sacrificed. In 2009, the figure was as high as 500,000 animals.
  • Involvement: Animals are sometimes brought from India, and the Nepalese government has historically supported the event.

Efforts to End the Sacrifices

  • Petitions and Legal Challenges: Animal welfare groups and individuals, including former actress Brigitte Bardot, have petitioned the courts in Nepal and India to stop the festival’s animal sacrifices.

Supreme Court Rulings

  • India (2014): The Supreme Court ordered that neighboring Indian states restrict the transport of animals for the Gadhimai festival.
  • Nepal (2016): The Supreme Court ruled that the government should phase out and discourage animal sacrifices. However, this ruling has been largely ignored, and the sacrifices continue.

Government Responses

  • The Nepalese government has stated that it would not use force to prevent the sacrifices, citing religious sentiments.
  • In 2015, temple caretakers promised a blood-free festival in 2019, but the killings went ahead as planned.

Ongoing Debate

  • Supporters: Devotees view the Gadhimai festival as an important, untouchable religious tradition essential for gaining blessings from the goddess.
  • Criticism: Activists argue the festival exploits both animals and impoverished communities, calling the sacrifices cruel, violent, and inhumane.

Current Status

  • 2024 Festival: The animal sacrifices began on December 8, despite ongoing legal and ethical concerns.
  • Global Attention: The Gadhimai Festival remains a flashpoint for discussions about animal rights, cultural practices, and the role of religion in modern society.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? What Is the Gadhimai Festival and Why Is It Controversial
Location Bariyarpur, Bara District, southeastern Nepal, near the India-Nepal border.
Frequency Every five years (quinquennial).
Historical Roots Traced back to Bhagwan Chowdhary’s vision of the Hindu goddess Gadhimai promising prosperity in exchange for blood sacrifice.
Animal Sacrifice Mass slaughter of animals, including rats, pigeons, goats, and water buffaloes.
Scale – 2009: Estimated 500,000 animals sacrificed.

– 2014 and 2019: Approximately 250,000 animals sacrificed.
Animal Welfare Concerns Critics argue the festival is cruel and inhumane, with calls for its cessation from global organizations like HSI.
Government Actions – India (2014): Supreme Court orders restrictions on animal transport.

– Nepal (2016): Supreme Court orders phase-out of animal sacrifices, largely ignored.
Attempts to End Sacrifice Petitioning by activists and legal actions to stop or limit animal sacrifices.
Cultural Significance Devotees view the festival as a key religious tradition to gain blessings from Gadhimai.
Opposition Animal rights groups and international figures, including Brigitte Bardot, condemn the festival’s brutality.
2024 Festival Sacrifices began on December 8, despite continued legal and ethical debates.

Tulsi Gowda, the ‘Encyclopedia of Forests,’ Passes Away

Tulsi Gowda, affectionately known as the “Tree Goddess,” was an environmentalist from Karnataka celebrated for her exceptional dedication to afforestation and ecological preservation. Born in 1944 in Honnali village, Uttara Kannada district, she overcame personal and financial hardships to emerge as a symbol of environmental conservation. Her tireless efforts, including planting over 1 lakh trees, earned her the Padma Shri award in 2021. Her passing on December 16, 2024, marked the end of an era but left behind an inspiring legacy.

Key Highlights

Early Life

  • Birth: 1944 in Honnali village, Ankola taluk, Uttara Kannada district.
  • Challenges: Lost her father at age two and grew up in poverty, working alongside her mother as a day laborer.
  • Lack of Education: Never received formal schooling but became an autodidact with remarkable forest knowledge.

Career and Contributions

  • Early Work: Started at a forest nursery, caring for seeds in the Karnataka Forest Department’s Agasur project.
  • Employment: Worked as a daily wage worker for 35 years before gaining a permanent position at the forest department.

Forest Conservation

  • Planted and nurtured over 1 lakh trees across Karnataka.
  • Contributed to strengthening one community reserve, five tiger reserves, 15 conservation reserves, and 30 wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Prevented poaching and mitigated forest fires.

Recognition and Awards

  • Padma Shri (2021): Honored for her unparalleled contributions to environmental conservation.
  • Title: Revered as the “Tree Goddess” and “Encyclopedia of Forest” by the Halakki tribal community.

Legacy

  • Guiding Light: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed her as an enduring inspiration for environmental conservation.
  • Impact: Her work serves as a blueprint for ecological preservation, inspiring generations to protect nature.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Tulsi Gowda, the ‘Encyclopedia of Forests,’ Passes Away
Community Halakki tribal community, referred to as the “Tree Goddess”
Early Challenges Lost father at age 2; grew up in poverty; no formal education
Career Start Worked as a day laborer with her mother at a forest nursery
Employment Worked 35 years as a daily wage laborer; later gained a permanent position in forest dept.
Key Contributions – Planted and nurtured over 1 lakh trees

– Strengthened 1 community reserve, 5 tiger reserves, 15 conservation reserves

– Contributed to 30 wildlife sanctuaries

– Prevented poaching and mitigated forest fires
Recognition – Padma Shri (2021) for environmental conservation

– Known as the “Encyclopedia of Forests”
Death December 16, 2024, at age 86, due to age-related ailments
Legacy – Remembered as a guiding light for environmental conservation

– PM Narendra Modi praised her as an enduring inspiration for protecting nature

INCOIS Upgrades SARAT for Enhanced Sea Rescue Operations

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. Originally introduced in 2016, SARAT has become a vital tool for the Indian Coast Guard and other agencies. The upgraded version, SARAT 2, comes with advanced features that provide more accurate predictions for missing objects and individuals at sea, optimizing rescue operations.

Background of SARAT

SARAT was launched in 2016 to aid in search and rescue operations at sea. The tool is designed to predict the drift of objects based on environmental factors like wind, currents, and waves. The recent upgrade (SARAT 2) incorporates user feedback and sophisticated technological advancements to improve search efficiency.

How SARAT Works

SARAT begins searches from the last known position of a missing object, factoring in variables such as ocean currents, wave patterns, and wind direction. The tool models drift based on the size, shape, and buoyancy of the object, allowing for targeted search operations.

Key Features of SARAT Version 2

Enhanced Visuals: SARAT 2 includes colour-coded search regions and high-resolution visuals that allow for quicker identification of high-probability areas.

Customisation: Users can choose from 60 types of objects to tailor the search, improving accuracy in finding missing items or individuals.

Accurate Drift Predictions: SARAT uses advanced computer systems and ocean current data to model drift patterns accurately, making rescue operations more reliable.

Operational Benefits

The upgraded tool enables authorities to concentrate search resources on smaller, more promising areas, increasing the chances of a successful rescue. SARAT’s targeted approach improves operational efficiency, making search missions faster and more effective.

SARAT’s Contribution to SAR Operations

SARAT has played a crucial role in improving the effectiveness of Indian Search and Rescue (SAR) agencies, including the Coast Guard, by simulating the probable search area for objects lost at sea. With its advanced capabilities, SARAT ensures that rescues are performed more efficiently, saving valuable time and resources in critical situations.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
INCOIS upgrades Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) – SARAT tool upgraded for better sea rescue operations.
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.
Customisation Options – Users can select from 60 types of missing objects for tailored searches.
Functionality – Predicts drift patterns of missing objects at sea using environmental factors (winds, currents, waves).
Background of SARAT – First introduced in 2016, initially designed to assist the Indian Coast Guard.
SARAT’s Technological Foundation – Operates on advanced computer systems at INCOIS using high-resolution ocean current data.
SARAT’s Importance in Search Operations – Helps concentrate resources on smaller, more promising search areas to increase chances of rescue success.
INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services) – Under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
SARAT’s Drift Prediction – Predicts drift of missing objects based on their size, shape, and buoyancy.
SARAT’s Role in Indian Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations – Integral tool for agencies like the Indian Coast Guard.

 

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