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Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the City of Vinegar?

Uttar Pradesh is a large state in northern India, known for its rich history, diverse cultures and important role in the country’s politics and economy. It is home to many historical sites, religious landmarks and bustling cities, making it a significant part of India’s heritage. In this article, we will know about the district of Uttar Pradesh which is known as the “City of Vinegar.”

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India, with over 241 million people, making it the most populated state in the country. It shares borders with several states and Nepal. Covering an area of 243,286 square kilometers, it is the fourth-largest state in India. Lucknow is the capital, and Prayagraj is the judicial capital.

Number of Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has 75 districts, divided into 18 divisions, with each district governed by a District Magistrate. A temporary 76th district, the Maha Kumbh area of Prayagraj, was created on December 2, 2024, for administrative purposes.

City of Vinegar in Uttar Pradesh

Basti, a district in Uttar Pradesh, is well-known for its vinegar production, earning the nickname “City of Vinegar.” The district’s vinegar is famous for its unique taste and quality, which are tied to traditional methods of production and local ingredients. Let’s explore more about this distinctive product.

Why is Basti Known as the City of Vinegar?

Basti is known as the “City of Vinegar” because it is famous for producing high-quality vinegar, primarily made from sugarcane. The district’s unique vinegar is produced using traditional methods and is often spiced with ingredients like mustard oil, garlic and cumin seeds. It is widely consumed locally and exported to other regions, adding to Basti’s recognition.

Vinegar Production in Basti

The vinegar in Basti is made primarily from sugarcane, which is abundant in the region. It is produced through a small-scale cottage industries, where minimal technology is used, allowing for a more traditional approach to vinegar-making. The process involves fermentation and careful handling of the raw materials, ensuring the vinegar retains its distinctive flavor.

Spiced Vinegar

One of the unique products from Basti is spiced vinegar, which is made by fermenting sugarcane juice for six months. A local family in the Harraiya assembly constituency of Basti created this special vinegar by adding ingredients like mustard oil, garlic, cumin seeds, red chilies, coriander seeds and other spices. The result is a flavorful and aromatic vinegar, often used in local cooking.

HSBC Taj Credit Card: A Luxe Partnership for Discerning Travelers

HSBC India has partnered with the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) to launch the HSBC Taj Credit Card, a co-branded luxury card tailored for affluent Indians seeking high-end experiences. This collaboration, in association with Visa, aims to cater to the growing demand for exclusive services, wellness, and travel experiences among India’s elite. With its premium offerings, the HSBC Taj Credit Card promises bespoke luxury benefits and is designed to meet the aspirations of the country’s wealthy clientele.

Premier Benefits for Affluent Clients

The HSBC Taj Credit Card offers a wealth of exclusive benefits:

Welcome Offers: Vouchers for luxury stays at Taj Palaces, including Taj Falaknuma and Rambagh Palace.

Exclusive Access: Membership to Taj InnerCircle Platinum and access to The Chambers and Taj Club lounges.

Discounts and Vouchers: 25% off on room rates, set meals at Taj restaurants, and spa treatments.

Travel in Comfort and Luxury

The card ensures a seamless travel experience with:

Discounts on Airlines: 5% off on Emirates flights from India.

Luxury Transfers: Complimentary Blacklane limousine services for airport transfers.

Unlimited Lounge Access: Domestic and global airport lounge access for cardholders.

Reward Points & Additional Perks

The card offers a robust rewards system:

Reward Accelerator: 8 NeuCoins per Rs 100 spent at IHCL hotels, and 4 NeuCoins per Rs 100 spent at Ginger Hotels.

Exclusive Lifestyle Discounts: Savings on Starbucks, PVR Cinemas, Zomato, and Swiggy.

Membership Fees & Charges

Joining Fee: Rs 1,10,000, payable upon card activation.

Annual Fee: Rs 1,10,000 after the first year.

Strategic Collaboration and Vision

This credit card’s launch reflects the growth in India’s luxury market, with increasing wealth and a shift toward high-end experiences. As Sandeep Batra of HSBC highlights, India’s affluent class is investing more in luxury and wellness, and the HSBC Taj Credit Card meets these needs with unmatched hospitality and exclusive privileges. Parveen Chander Kumar of IHCL also emphasizes this collaboration as a way to offer guests world-class luxury and unforgettable experiences.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
HSBC Taj Credit Card Launch – Partnership: HSBC India and IHCL (Indian Hotels Company)
– Card Type: Premium co-branded credit card
– Target Audience: Affluent Indians seeking luxury experiences
– Annual Fee: ₹1,10,000 (after the first year)
– Joining Fee: ₹1,10,000 (paid after activation)
– Collaborator: Visa
– Main Benefits: Luxury stays at Taj properties, spa, dining discounts, and reward points
– Exclusive Perks: Access to Taj InnerCircle Platinum, airport lounge access, discounts on Emirates flights and luxury transfers
Premier Benefits – 25% off on Taj hotel rooms, spa treatments, and dining
– Rewards: Earn NeuCoins (8 for every ₹100 spent at IHCL, 4 for Ginger Hotels)
Discounts and Rewards – Discounts on brands: Starbucks, PVR Cinemas, Zomato, Swiggy, Croma
Travel Perks – 5% off on Emirates flights (originating from India)
– Complimentary Blacklane limo services for airport transfers
Associated Company Details – IHCL: Indian Hotels Company Limited (Taj Group)
– Founded: 1903
– Hotel Legacy: Taj is India’s strongest hotel brand
Key Figures – Sandeep Batra: Head, Wealth and Personal Banking, HSBC India
– Parveen Chander Kumar: Executive VP – Commercial, IHCL

Madhya Pradesh Welcomes 10th International Forest Fair

The 10th International Forest Fair, held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, commenced on December 17, 2024, and will run until December 23. This fair focuses on promoting sustainable forest practices, empowering local communities, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in the forestry sector. The event provides a platform for government officials, traders, producers, scientists, and policymakers to engage in meaningful discussions and knowledge exchange.

Key Highlights

Event Duration

  • Runs from December 17 to December 23, 2024, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

Theme

  • “Women Empowerment through Minor Forest Produce.”
  • Focuses on empowering women in the forestry sector, where 50% of the workforce is made up of women managing minor forest produce.

Key Attendees

  • Governor Mangubhai Patel
  • Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav
  • Representatives from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Australia, enhancing the fair’s international reach.

Stalls and Exhibitions

  • Around 300 stalls featuring forest-related products and services.
  • Government departments will showcase initiatives and achievements.
  • Provides a platform for networking and knowledge exchange among participants.

Health Services

  • Free medical consultations with qualified Ayurveda doctors.
  • Daily OPD services promote holistic health and well-being.

Participation and Collaboration

  • Encourages collaboration among government bodies, NGOs, and private enterprises.
  • International participation fosters the exchange of best practices in forest management.

Focus on Local Communities

  • Promotes awareness of forest resources and the economic potential of minor forest produce.
  • Highlights sustainable practices and supports the empowerment of local populations.

Economic and Social Impact

Empowerment of Women

  • The fair focuses on the significant role of women in the management of minor forest produce.
  • Supports gender equality and acknowledges the contributions of women to the forestry sector and the local economy.

Promotion of Sustainable Practices

  • The fair emphasizes the need for sustainable practices in forest management.
  • Aims to create awareness about forest resources and their economic potential.

Global Collaboration

  • Participation from international representatives fosters global dialogue on forest management and sustainability.
  • Enhances India’s role in the global conversation on forestry and environmental protection.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Madhya Pradesh Welcomes 10th International Forest Fair
Location Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Theme Women Empowerment through Minor Forest Produce
Key Attendees Governor Mangubhai Patel, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, International participants from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Australia
Stalls and Exhibitions 300 stalls showcasing forest products, government initiatives, and services
Health Services Free medical consultations with Ayurveda doctors, daily OPD service
Key Focus Areas – Empowerment of women in the forestry sector

– Collaboration among government bodies, NGOs, and private enterprises

– Sustainable forest management practices
International Participation Sri Lanka, Nepal, Australia
Economic Impact Promotes sustainable practices and empowers local communities
Social Impact Highlights the role of women in the forestry sector and supports gender equality

India’s FY26 Economic Outlook: Modest Growth Amid Tightening

India’s economy is projected to grow at 6.6% in FY26, a marginal increase from the current fiscal’s 6.4%, driven primarily by investments. However, India’s fiscal and external challenges continue, with a slight easing in monetary conditions expected. India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) sees growth in line with the best decadal growth period (FY11-20), despite global tightening pressures.

Key Growth Drivers: Investment and Consumption

Ind-Ra’s FY26 growth forecast highlights investments as the primary engine, expected to rise by 7.2% compared to 6.7% in FY25. Consumption, while seeing only a slight uptick to 6.9%, continues to be a significant factor, buoyed by improved rural demand due to favorable monsoon and positive rural wages. However, urban demand remains a concern, affecting overall consumption.

Inflation and Fiscal Projections

Inflation is expected to ease slightly, with a forecast of 4.3% in FY26, down from the 4.9% expected this fiscal. Despite the easing, the RBI’s rate cuts are anticipated to be gradual, with a maximum reduction of 100-125 bps. The government’s fiscal target to reduce the deficit to 4.5% by FY26 is seen as achievable, supported by projected nominal growth of 10.2% and capex growth of 10%.

External and Currency Challenges

Despite a generally positive outlook, the Indian economy faces risks from a depreciating rupee and potential external shocks, including tariff wars, capital outflows, and a stronger US dollar. Ind-Ra forecasts the rupee to settle at Rs 86.87 against the dollar. Additionally, global uncertainties, such as US tariff threats, could further complicate growth and inflation dynamics.

Sectoral Outlook

Agriculture growth is expected to slow down in FY26 after a robust 3.8% growth this year, while industry and services are forecasted to show stable performance. The ongoing monetary and fiscal tightening, alongside external factors, will shape India’s economic trajectory in FY26, though investment-driven growth is set to remain a key factor in sustaining progress.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India’s Economic Growth in FY26 India’s economy to grow at 6.6% in FY26, up from 6.4% in FY25; driven by investments; consumption growth expected at 6.9%; inflation forecasted at 4.3%; fiscal deficit target of 4.5% by FY26.
Monetary, Fiscal, and External Tightening Ind-Ra sees continued fiscal and external tightening in FY26; monetary conditions expected to ease.
Sectoral Outlook Agriculture growth expected to slow to 3.8%; industry likely to perform better; services expected to remain stable.
Rupee and Current Account Rupee forecasted to depreciate to Rs 86.87 against the dollar; current account deficit expected around 1%.
Government’s Fiscal Roadmap Government aims to achieve a fiscal deficit of 4.5% by FY26 with a nominal growth projection of 10.2% and capex growth of 10%.
US Tariff Threats US President-elect Donald Trump threatened reciprocal tariffs against India, which could affect trade dynamics.
Inflation and Rate Cuts Inflation raised to 4.9% for the current fiscal; RBI repo rate at 6.5%; Ind-Ra projects inflation to decrease to 4.3% in FY26.

Rama Mohan Rao Amara Appointed as SBI’s New Managing Director

The Indian government has appointed Rama Mohan Rao Amara as the new Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI) for a period of three years. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) and follows a recommendation by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB). Amara takes over the position previously held by CS Setty, who assumed charge as Chairman of SBI in August. With his extensive experience in various roles within SBI, Amara is set to lead the bank through crucial phases of growth and development.

Selection Process and Recommendation

The FSIB had reviewed nine candidates for the MD position, ultimately recommending Rama Mohan Rao Amara. His selection was based on his performance during the interview process, his qualifications, and his extensive experience within the banking sector.

Career Background and Expertise

Amara has been with SBI since 1991, initially joining as a probationary officer. His career spans various sectors, including credit, risk, retail, and international banking. Prior to this appointment, Amara served as the Deputy Managing Director and Chief Risk Officer of SBI. His leadership roles also included managing key assignments in global markets such as Singapore and the U.S., where he held positions as CEO of SBI’s Chicago branch and President and CEO of SBI California.

A Key Leadership Appointment

Amara’s appointment fills a critical vacancy in SBI’s leadership team, strengthening the bank’s management structure, which includes the Chairman and four Managing Directors overseeing the bank’s operations. His appointment aligns with SBI’s ongoing role in driving India’s banking sector and supporting government financial initiatives.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Appointment of Rama Mohan Rao Amara as SBI MD 1. Rama Mohan Rao Amara appointed as Managing Director of State Bank of India (SBI) for 3 years.
2. Replaces CS Setty, who became Chairman of SBI in August 2024.
3. FSIB recommended Amara’s name after interviewing 9 candidates.
4. Amara has been with SBI since 1991, previously Deputy Managing Director and Chief Risk Officer.
SBI Overview 1. State Bank of India (SBI) is the largest public sector bank in India.
2. Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
3. SBI plays a critical role in India’s banking sector and financial initiatives.
4. SBI’s leadership includes a Chairman and four Managing Directors.
FSIB (Financial Services Institutions Bureau) 1. The FSIB is responsible for appointing directors in state-owned banks and financial institutions.

38th National Games Uttarakhand Unveils Mascot, Logo, Anthem, and Tagline

Uttarakhand marked a significant milestone in sports as it unveiled the mascot, logo, jersey, anthem, and tagline for the 38th National Games 2025 at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Dehradun. With the Games scheduled from January 28 to February 14, 2025, the event symbolizes a blend of tradition, athleticism, and the state’s rich heritage. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami led the unveiling ceremony, which also included announcements of traditional sports like yoga and mallakhamb being part of the competition.

Key Highlights

Mascot “Mauli”

  • Inspired by the Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand.
  • Symbolizes the region’s uniqueness and encourages young athletes to aim high.

Logo

  • Reflects the beauty and biodiversity of Uttarakhand, incorporating the Monal’s vibrant imagery.

Tagline

  • “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak” (From Resolve to Zenith), representing determination and ambition.

Event Details

  • Dates: January 28 to February 14, 2025.
  • Participants: Over 10,000 athletes, officials, and coaches from across India, including institutional teams like the Services.
  • Sports: Competitions in 38 sports, including traditional events like yoga and mallakhamb.

Ceremonial Torch

  • National Games torch lit during the event.
  • The torch will traverse Uttarakhand to promote sports culture and inspire youth sportsmanship.

Significance of the Event

  • Chief Minister Dhami described it as a historic milestone for sports in Uttarakhand.
  • Acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the opportunity to host the Games.
  • Emphasized the state’s readiness to make the event a grand success.

Cultural Integration

  • Inclusion of traditional sports highlights the cultural ethos of Uttarakhand.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? 38th National Games Uttarakhand Unveils Mascot, Logo, Anthem, and Tagline
Date of Event Sunday, December 15, 2024
Mascot Name Mauli, inspired by the Monal (state bird of Uttarakhand)
Logo Inspiration Based on the Monal, reflecting Uttarakhand’s natural beauty and diversity
Tagline “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak” (From Resolve to Zenith)
Dates of National Games January 28 to February 14, 2025
Participants Over 10,000 athletes, officials, and coaches from across India, including institutional teams like the Services
Number of Sports 38 sports, including traditional sports like yoga and mallakhamb
Key Highlights – National Games Torch: Symbolizing unity and sportsmanship, will travel across Uttarakhand

– Focus on traditional sports inclusion
Statements from Leaders – CM Dhami: Historic milestone for Uttarakhand’s sports landscape

– PT Usha: Announcement of traditional sports’ inclusion
Significance – Historic opportunity for Uttarakhand to host the Games

– Aims to inspire youth and promote a sports culture

Japan and India Collaborate to Address Space Debris

Japan and India have joined forces to tackle the growing challenge of space debris, marking a significant collaboration in the space sector. This partnership, centered around laser technology and space debris removal, also extends to lunar exploration, showcasing their commitment to joint space efforts.

Collaboration on Space Debris Removal

Orbital Lasers, a Tokyo-based company, and InspeCity, an Indian space tech firm, have signed a preliminary agreement to explore business opportunities in space debris removal. The initiative aims to use laser-equipped satellites to manage and reduce space clutter by vaporizing debris, making it easier for spacecraft to approach and service defunct objects. Testing of the technology is expected post-2027.
InspeCity has raised $1.5 million in funding, while Orbital Lasers has secured $5.8 million since its inception, with both companies working to meet their respective regulatory requirements.

Growing Space Collaboration Between Japan and India

Beyond space debris, the two nations are also cooperating on the Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission, planned for 2026, to explore the Moon’s polar regions. This collaboration further extends to Indian companies working with Japan’s ispace on lunar missions.
Japan’s satellite data solutions are also helping India’s disaster management and agriculture sectors. This partnership aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative, with future collaborations potentially focusing on manufacturing and local production enhancement.

Japan’s Space Industry and Regulatory Framework

Japan’s space program, led by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), benefits from the Basic Plan on Space Policy, which promotes private sector involvement and innovation. Key companies like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Astroscale are advancing space technology, including active debris removal, to address the growing issue of space junk. Japan’s regulatory framework, governed by the Space Activity Act, ensures the responsible management of space activities, including debris limitation and resource exploration. The country is also a participant in the Artemis Accords, supporting the sustainable use of space resources.

Global Space Efforts and Future Prospects

With over 100 companies now involved in space servicing, including those focusing on space debris, the global community is recognizing the urgency of space management. Japan and India’s cooperation in space technology, lunar exploration, and debris removal illustrates the growing importance of international partnerships in tackling space-related challenges and advancing space exploration.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India and Japan join hands for space debris removal through laser-equipped satellites. – Indian company: InspeCity
– Japanese partner: Orbital Lasers
– Technology: Laser-equipped satellites for debris removal
– Focus: Tackling space debris in Earth’s orbit
Relevant static points (if any)
Indian Space Agency: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) – Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
– Founded: 1969
Japan’s Space Agency: JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) – Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
– Founded: 2003
Technology for Space Debris Removal: – Laser-based technology to remove debris from Earth’s orbit

India Emerges as 3rd Largest Exporter in Smartphone Market

India’s ascent from the 23rd position in global smartphone exports in 2019 to securing the 3rd spot in 2024 marks a monumental achievement in its manufacturing and export capabilities. With smartphone exports crossing ₹20,000 crore in November 2024, this growth highlights India’s success in leveraging government initiatives and a robust domestic production ecosystem.

Key Highlights

Growth in Smartphone Exports

  • India’s smartphone exports increased by 92% in November 2024 compared to the same month last year.
  • Exports in November 2024 reached ₹20,395 crore, a sharp rise from ₹10,634 crore in November 2023.

Government Initiatives Driving Growth

  • Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Aimed to boost local manufacturing and reduce import dependency.
  • PLI targets for 2024-25 include exporting 70-75% of the total production value.
  • Support for domestic and international companies to establish manufacturing units in India.

Achievements Under the PLI Scheme

  • Ambitious export targets surpassed, reflecting the scheme’s success.
  • Enhanced competitiveness of Indian-made smartphones in global markets.

Economic Impact

  • Boost to the Indian economy through increased foreign exchange reserves.
  • Creation of jobs in manufacturing, supply chains, and allied sectors.
  • Improved trade balance through higher exports.

Future Outlook

  • Continued investment in technology and manufacturing infrastructure.
  • Focus on innovation and competitive pricing to attract international buyers.
  • Strengthening India’s position as a global hub for smartphone production.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Emerges as 3rd Largest Exporter in Smartphone Market
Global Rank 3rd Largest Smartphone Exporter
Previous Rank (2019) 23rd
Export Value (Nov 2024) ₹20,395 crore
Growth Over Nov 2023 92% Increase (₹10,634 crore in Nov 2023)
Government Initiative Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
PLI Export Target (FY 2024-25) 70-75% of Total Production Value
Economic Impact – Boost to foreign exchange reserves

– Job creation in manufacturing and allied sectors

– Improved trade balance
Factors Driving Growth – Government policies (PLI Scheme)

– Growing domestic manufacturing base

– Increased investment in infrastructure and technology
Future Focus – Strengthen global market position

– Innovation and competitive pricing

– Attract international buyers

Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam

India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). Conducted in Assam, this initiative marks a major advancement under Project Dolphin, led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The collaborative effort of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Assam Forest Department, and the organization Aaranyak, funded by the National CAMPA Authority, aims to deepen the understanding of the species’ ecological needs, migratory patterns, and habitat use.

Key Highlights Ganges River Dolphin Tagging Initiative

First-Ever Tagging of the Species

  • This marks the first instance of satellite tagging for Ganges River Dolphins, not just in India but globally.
  • The tagging took place in Assam, where a healthy male dolphin was released back into the river under veterinary supervision.

Collaborative Effort

  • Conducted by MoEFCC in partnership with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Assam Forest Department, and Aaranyak.
  • Funded by the National CAMPA Authority as part of Project Dolphin.

Objectives of Tagging

  • To gather critical data on habitat needs, seasonal migratory patterns, and range of the species.
  • To address knowledge gaps in conservation strategies for this elusive aquatic mammal.

Advanced Technology in Tagging

  • Lightweight satellite tags compatible with Argos systems were used.
  • Designed to function efficiently despite the dolphin’s limited surfacing time (5-30 seconds).

Ecological Importance of Ganges River Dolphins

  • Declared India’s National Aquatic Animal, these dolphins are apex predators and serve as umbrella species for river ecosystems.
  • Nearly blind, they rely on echolocation for navigation and feeding.

Challenges in Conservation

  • Significant decline in population and distribution due to habitat fragmentation and human activity.
  • Behavioral challenges, as the species surfaces briefly, making tracking and observation difficult.

Statements from Key Leaders

  • Union Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted the milestone as a “historic achievement” and emphasized its significance for conserving India’s National Aquatic Animal.
  • WII Director Virendra R. Tiwari stressed the importance of evidence-based conservation strategies facilitated by tagging.
  • Project investigator Dr. Vishnupriya Kolipakam underlined the broader ecological impact of protecting river dolphins for aquatic biodiversity and human livelihoods.

Future Plans

  • Extend the tagging initiative to other states within the dolphin’s range.
  • Develop a comprehensive conservation action plan through range-wide research under Project Dolphin.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam
Event First-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin
Significance – First instance of tagging for the species globally

– Major milestone under Project Dolphin
Collaborating Organizations – Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

– Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

– Assam Forest Department

– Aaranyak
Funding Authority National CAMPA Authority
Objective – Study habitat needs, seasonal and migratory patterns, and home-range dynamics

– Fill knowledge gaps for evidence-based conservation
Technology Used Lightweight satellite tags compatible with Argos systems
Species Details – National Aquatic Animal of India

– Apex predator in river ecosystems

– Relies on echolocation due to near blindness
Ecological Importance – Umbrella species for river ecosystems

– Ensures ecological balance and supports aquatic biodiversity
Challenges – Declining population due to habitat fragmentation

– Elusive behavior (brief surfacing time of 5-30 seconds)
Future Plans – Expand tagging to other states within the species’ range

– Develop a comprehensive conservation action plan under Project Dolphin
Statements from Leaders – Bhupender Yadav: “Historic milestone for the species and India.”

– WII Director: “Facilitates evidence-based conservation.”

– Dr. Kolipakam: “Vital for sustaining biodiversity.”

Uttarakhand to Implement Uniform Civil Code from January 2025

Uttarakhand will become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) starting January 2025, fulfilling a key promise made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the 2022 assembly elections. The UCC aims to establish uniform personal laws on marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, regardless of religion or caste, while excluding tribal communities. With preparations reportedly complete, this move marks a significant legal reform in India post-independence.

Formation of UCC: Past and Present

Genesis in 2022: Following the BJP’s victory in the 2022 Uttarakhand assembly elections, the first cabinet meeting of the new government approved the formation of a five-member expert committee led by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai to draft the UCC.

Legislative Milestone: The Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand 2024 Bill, was passed in the state assembly on February 7, 2024, and received presidential assent on March 12, 2024.

Implementation Roadmap

Final Preparations: A nine-member sub-committee, led by former chief secretary Shatrughna Singh, drafted the rules after 43 meetings. The training of officials and infrastructure setup are in the final stages.

Digital Initiatives: A portal and mobile app have been developed to facilitate online registration, appeals, and other UCC-related services for public convenience.

Execution Framework: Three sub-committees framed the implementation rules under Singh’s guidance. Adequate training and resources for personnel have been ensured to streamline the rollout.

Significance of the UCC in Uttarakhand

The Uniform Civil Code seeks to make the state legally just and equitable by eliminating disparities in personal laws. CM Dhami emphasized the transformational nature of this move, stating it as a step toward uniformity in personal laws, except for the state’s tribal communities, who are excluded from the Act.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Uttarakhand will implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) from January 2025, becoming the first Indian state to do so post-independence. The UCC Bill was passed on February 7, 2024, and received presidential assent on March 12, 2024.
UCC Expert Committee Chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai.
Implementation Framework Rules finalized by a nine-member sub-committee led by former Chief Secretary Shatrughna Singh.
Legislative Process Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand, 2024 Bill passed in the state assembly.
Exclusion Tribal communities are excluded from the UCC provisions.
Digital Initiatives A portal and mobile app have been developed for registration and appeals related to the UCC.
CM of Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Capital of Uttarakhand Summer: Gairsain, Winter: Dehradun.
Formation of State Uttarakhand was formed on November 9, 2000.

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