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.

 

Nicknames of Districts of Haryana, Check the List

Haryana, a vibrant state in northern India, is known for its rich culture, historical importance and unique features. Many of its districts have earned interesting nicknames based on their specialties, industries or historical events. These nicknames showcase the diversity and significance of each district. Let’s explore the list of Haryana’s districts and their famous nicknames

An Overview of Haryana

Haryana is a state in northern India, formed on 1 November 1966 after Punjab’s linguistic reorganization. It covers just 1.4% of India’s land area (44,212 square km) and ranks 21st in size. Chandigarh is its capital, shared with Punjab, while Faridabad is the largest city. Gurugram (Gurgaon) is a major financial and technology hub in India.

List of Nicknames of Districts of Haryana

Haryana’s districts have unique nicknames that reflect their specialties, industries or historical importance. These names highlight the district identity and contribution of each district to the state’s culture and economy.

Here is the list of nicknames of districts of Haryana:

Districts Nicknames
Ambala Scientific City
Gurgaon Cyber City
Gurgaon Medi City
Yamunanagar Paper City
Palwal, Rohtak Sugar City
Kurukshetra City of Religion
Jind Milk City
Palwal Cotton City
Panipat Weaver’s City
Jhajjar City of Martyrs
Hisar Steel City
Rewari Brass City
Faridabad Industrial City
Karnal Karna City
Sirsa City of Saints
Sirsa Forest City
Bhiwani Kashi
Kaithal Choti Kashi
Kaithal Kapital City
Narnaul Birbal City
Fatehabad Pink City
Sonipat The golden city of Mahabharata period
Jind Heart of Haryana
Karnal Rice Bowl

 

Moldova Joins International Solar Alliance

Moldova has officially joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA), signaling its commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. The ISA Framework Agreement was signed in New Delhi by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi. Moldova’s inclusion comes after Armenia became the 104th full member last month, marking the continued global expansion of the ISA. Headquartered in India, ISA unites countries to overcome challenges in solar energy financing, technology, and scalability, aiming to mobilize over USD 1,000 billion in investments by 2030.

What is the International Solar Alliance (ISA)?

The ISA is an inter-governmental treaty-based organization founded during COP21 in Paris in 2015 by Indian PM Narendra Modi and French President François Hollande. It promotes solar energy adoption globally by addressing barriers like technology costs and financing. The ISA Framework Agreement became operational in December 2017, making it the first inter-governmental body headquartered in India. Membership has expanded to 120 signatories, with 100 full members.

Objectives and Vision

  • Mobilize over USD 1,000 billion for solar energy projects by 2030.
  • Reduce financing costs and promote innovative financial mechanisms.
  • Scale up solar technologies in member nations.
  • Facilitate collaborative R&D and provide technical training for member countries.

Key Initiatives and India’s Role

India, as a key player, has solarized government buildings and healthcare facilities globally, showcasing leadership in renewable energy. Notable ISA projects include:

  • Solarizing Malawi’s Parliamentary building.
  • Establishing solar-powered cold storage in Seychelles.
  • Offering technical training to build capacity among member nations.

Recent Membership Growth

Moldova’s membership highlights the ISA’s growing influence and international commitment to sustainable energy. It reflects increasing global acknowledgment of solar energy as a critical tool for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and addressing climate challenges outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Impact and Outlook

By uniting solar-resource-rich nations, ISA helps reduce reliance on non-renewable energy, create transformative energy solutions for LDCs and SIDS, and position solar energy as central to global energy transitions. With Moldova now on board, the ISA’s vision for a solar-powered future gains further momentum.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Moldova joins the International Solar Alliance (ISA) – Signed the ISA Framework Agreement in New Delhi on December 6, 2023.
– Formalized by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Moldovan Deputy PM Mihai Popșoi.
– Reflects Moldova’s commitment to renewable energy.
– Followed by Armenia’s inclusion as the 104th full member of ISA in November 2023.
– ISA mobilizes over USD 1,000 billion for solar energy by 2030.
International Solar Alliance (ISA) – Founded in 2015 by India and France.
– Headquartered in India.
– 120 countries signed the ISA Framework Agreement, 100 full members.
– Aims to scale up solar technologies and finance solar projects globally.
– Focuses on addressing barriers in financing and technology for solar energy.
– Became the first international inter-governmental organization headquartered in India after 15 countries ratified the Framework Agreement in 2017.
Moldova – Capital: Chișinău
– Currency: Moldovan Leu (MDL)
Key Objectives of ISA – Mobilize USD 1,000 billion investments for solar energy by 2030.
– Reduce the cost of solar technology and financing for member countries.
– Promote collaborative research and development in solar energy.
– Encourage large-scale deployment of solar energy in developing countries.
ISA’s Notable Projects – Solarizing Malawi’s Parliament building and Seychelles’ cold storage.
– Solar-powered projects to enhance energy access in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Ashwin’s Retirement: A Historic Cricket Career Concludes

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s premier spinners, has announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Brisbane on December 18, 2024. The announcement marked the conclusion of a remarkable 14-year international career. Known for his tactical brilliance and record-breaking achievements, Ashwin’s retirement follows a stellar career in which he became one of India’s greatest match-winners. He leaves behind a legacy as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket and one of the most versatile bowlers in the history of the game.

Key Points

Retirement Announcement

  • Ashwin announced his retirement after India’s draw in the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Brisbane.

Career Overview

  • Ashwin played 106 Test matches, taking 537 wickets, making him India’s second-highest Test wicket-taker.
  • He holds 37 five-wicket hauls in Test cricket, ranking second behind Muttiah Muralidaran (67).
  • His career spanned 287 international matches, with Ashwin also excelling in ODIs (116 matches) and T20Is (65 matches).

Notable Achievements

  • Ashwin ranks seventh on the all-time list for Test wickets with 537 scalps.
  • He holds the record for dismissing the most left-handed batsmen in Test cricket (268).
  • He was the first bowler to take 100 wickets in the World Test Championship and remains the highest wicket-taker in the WTC with 195 wickets.
  • Ashwin is also a useful lower-order batsman, with 3503 runs in Tests, including six centuries and 14 fifties.
  • Record for Century and Five-Wicket Haul: He holds the Indian record for the most instances (4) of a century and a five-wicket haul in the same Test.

Legacy in Indian Cricket

  • Ashwin played a crucial role in India’s success in the World Test Championship and helped fill the key role of a spin bowler alongside other legends of the game.

International Farewell

  • Ashwin’s final Test appearance was at Adelaide during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. 
  • He received praise from Australian bowler Nathan Lyon, who spoke highly of Ashwin’s skill and character on and off the field.

Franchise Cricket

  • Despite his retirement from international cricket, Ashwin is expected to continue playing in the IPL and has recently secured a contract with Chennai Super Kings for Rs 9.75 crore in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction.

Retirement Impact

  • His retirement marks the end of an era for India’s spin bowling and will be felt deeply within the cricket community.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Ashwin’s Retirement: A Historic Cricket Career Concludes
Retirement Announcement Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Brisbane (Dec 18, 2024).
Test Career Played 106 Test matches, took 537 wickets, second-highest Test wicket-taker for India.
ODIs and T20Is Played 116 ODIs (156 wickets) and 65 T20Is (72 wickets).
Records – Seventh on all-time Test wicket list (537 wickets).

– Record for most left-handed batsmen dismissed in Test cricket (268).

Five-Wicket Hauls 37 five-wicket hauls in Test cricket, second only to Muttiah Muralidaran’s 67.
Unique Feat Holds the Indian record for the most instances (4) of a century and a five-wicket haul in the same Test, second only to Ian Botham (5).
World Test Championship First bowler to take 100 WTC wickets, highest wicket-taker with 195 wickets in WTC.
Batting 3503 Test runs, including 6 centuries and 14 fifties.
Legacy Ashwin leaves a significant legacy in Indian and world cricket, particularly in Test cricket, and continues to influence the game.
Final Test His last Test appearance was in Adelaide during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.

Kisan Kavach – Bharat’s Indigenous Anti-Pesticide Bodysuit

Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, unveiled Kisan Kavach, India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit. Developed by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd., the suit aims to safeguard farmers from pesticide-induced health risks. The launch aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of leveraging science and technology to empower India’s agricultural community.

Key Highlights

Innovation Objective

  • Designed to protect farmers from harmful pesticide exposure.
  • Addresses severe health issues such as breathing disorders, vision loss, and fatalities.

Development

  • Created by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd.
  • Supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).

Key Features

  • Washable and reusable, lasting up to a year.
  • Advanced fabric technology deactivates pesticides on contact.
  • Priced at ₹4,000 with plans for greater affordability through scaled-up production.

Scientific Basis

  • Fabric involves covalent attachment of nucleophile to cotton, enabling pesticide deactivation via nucleophilic hydrolysis.
  • Research findings published in Nature Communications (DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49167-3).

Significance

  • Fills a critical safety gap in agriculture.
  • Protects the health of farmers, 65% of whom form the backbone of India’s workforce.
  • Promotes climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural practices.

Launch Event

  • Distribution of the first batch of Kisan Kavach suits to farmers.
  • Attended by Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale (Secretary, DBT), Dr. Maneesha Inamdar (Director, BRIC-inStem), and Dr. Alka Sharma (Senior Adviser, DBT).

Government Focus

  • Emphasis on science and technology for societal good.
  • Reflects the Modi government’s BioE3 biomanufacturing policies.
  • Supports India’s booming biotech sector, targeting a $300 billion bioeconomy.

Future Outlook

  • Scalability and affordability to enhance accessibility.
  • Strengthens India’s position in agricultural innovation.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Kisan Kavach – Bharat’s Indigenous Anti-Pesticide Bodysuit
Innovation Objective Protects farmers from harmful pesticide exposure, addressing health issues like breathing disorders, vision loss, and fatalities.
Development Created by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. Supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Key Features Washable and reusable (up to 1 year). Advanced fabric deactivates pesticides on contact. 

Priced at ₹4,000, plans for greater affordability with scaled-up production.

Scientific Basis Fabric technology involves nucleophilic hydrolysis to deactivate pesticides via covalent attachment to cotton. 

Research published in Nature Communications (DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49167-3).

Significance Fills critical safety gap, protects farmers’ health (65% of India’s workforce), promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
Launch Event First batch distributed to farmers. Attended by Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale (Secretary, DBT), Dr. Maneesha Inamdar (Director, BRIC-inStem), and Dr. Alka Sharma (Senior Adviser, DBT).
Government Focus Focus on leveraging science and technology for societal good. 

Supports Modi government’s BioE3 policies and India’s biotech sector, targeting a $300 billion bioeconomy.

Future Outlook Plans for scalability and affordability to enhance accessibility. Strengthens India’s position in agricultural innovation.

Israel Expands Settlements in Golan Heights Amid Regional Shifts

Israel recently approved a settlement expansion plan in the Golan Heights, allocating over $11.13 million to boost population and infrastructure in the region. This decision comes amidst rising regional tensions following political changes in Syria, particularly the fall of the Assad regime. Israel aims to double the population in this strategically significant territory.

Strategic Importance of Golan Heights

The Golan Heights, captured by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed in 1981, remains unrecognized as Israeli territory by most of the international community. The plateau holds strategic value for defense and water resources. Currently, the region houses about 50,000 residents, including 20,000 Israeli settlers and an equal number of local Druze Arabs and Alawites.

Settlement Expansion Details

Proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the plan includes developing education facilities, renewable energy projects, and a student village. The Golan Regional Council will also receive support to manage an anticipated population growth. Netanyahu justified the move as critical for national security, citing the unstable post-Assad landscape in Syria.

Regional Criticism and Legal Context

The expansion has drawn strong criticism from Arab nations. The UAE emphasized Syria’s territorial rights, Qatar condemned the move as an attack on Syrian sovereignty, and Saudi Arabia also voiced disapproval. Under international law, the Golan Heights is considered occupied territory, with only the U.S. recognizing Israel’s sovereignty. Former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert questioned the expansion’s necessity, highlighting the risk of escalating tensions.

Rising Tensions with Syria

Israel’s actions follow heightened military activity in Syria, including over 450 airstrikes since December 8, targeting military assets. Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, criticized these strikes as crossing “red lines” but indicated Syria’s war-weary state prevents further confrontation. Meanwhile, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel has “no interest in a conflict with Syria” but will act as necessary to secure its borders.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Israel approved a $11.13 million settlement expansion plan in the Golan Heights to double its population, citing security needs after the fall of the Assad regime in Syria.
Golan Heights Capture Captured by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War.
Annexation Year Annexed by Israel in 1981; unrecognized by most of the international community.
Legal Status Classified as “occupied territory” under international law.
Population Home to approximately 50,000 residents: 20,000 Israeli settlers and 20,000 local Druze Arabs.
Strategic Importance A vital plateau for defense and water resources.
Criticism Strong opposition from UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, citing violations of international law.
Global Recognition Only the United States recognizes Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu.
Key Plan Details Includes education facilities, renewable energy projects, a student village, and infrastructure upgrades.
Neighboring Country Syria, currently unstable following the fall of the Assad regime.

Ayodhya Ram Temple Wins Global Safety Excellence Award

The Ram temple project in Ayodhya has achieved a significant milestone by being awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’ from the British Safety Council. This accolade underscores the exceptional safety measures implemented during the temple’s construction. The announcement was made by Nripendra Misra, chairman of the Construction Committee of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The award is a testament to the meticulous planning, execution, and adherence to global safety standards, making it a model for construction projects worldwide.

Sword of Honour Award

  • 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.

Golden Trophy by National Safety Council

  • Earlier, M/s Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the firm responsible for the temple’s construction, received the ‘Golden Trophy’ from the National Safety Council for implementing outstanding safety measures.

Construction Progress

  • The first and second floors, including the “Shikhar” (top) of the temple, are in the final phase of construction.
  • The project is on track for completion by June 2025.

Statue Carvings

  • Marble statues of Shri Ram Darbar and various sages, including Maharishi Valmiki, Ahilya Devi, Nishad Raaj, Sabri, Muni Vashishth, Agatsya Muni, Rishi Vishwamitra, and Goswami Tulsi Das, will be completed by January 2025.

Architectural and Structural Details

  • The temple is being constructed entirely with Bansi Paharpur stone from Rajasthan, amounting to approximately 15 lakh cubic feet.
  • The construction includes significant marble cladding for aesthetic and structural stability.
  • Notable contributors include artist Vasudev Kamath, architects Shri Sompura and Shri Jay Kaktikar, and institutions such as the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) and M/s TCE.

Significance of the Award

  • The award reinforces the importance of safety management in large-scale construction projects.
  • It highlights the meticulous attention to detail and adherence to international standards by the construction team.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Ayodhya Ram Temple Wins Global Safety Excellence Award
Award Name Sword of Honour
Awarded By British Safety Council
Significance Recognizes exceptional safety management and adherence to global safety standards
Eligibility Criteria Achieving a five-star safety assessment and passing an on-site activity evaluation
Additional Recognition Golden Trophy by National Safety Council awarded to M/s Larsen & Toubro (L&T)
Construction Progress First and second floors, including “Shikhar,” in final phase; completion expected by June 2025
Statue Details Marble statues of Shri Ram Darbar and notable sages to be completed by January 2025
Materials Used Bansi Paharpur stone from Rajasthan (15 lakh cubic feet) with significant marble cladding
Key Contributors Artist Vasudev Kamath, architects Shri Sompura and Shri Jay Kaktikar, and institutions like CBRI & TCE
Completion Timeline Project expected to be fully completed by June 2025