‘Mission Himveer’: Empowering Arunachal’s Economy

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has launched Mission Arun Himveer to enhance market linkages for local agricultural and horticultural producers. In a significant move, the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), North East Frontier, in the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

Key Highlights of Mission Arun Himveer

Objectives

  • Provide direct market access for local farmers, SHGs, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives.
  • Foster economic growth in rural and border regions.
  • Solve employment challenges by promoting reverse migration to villages.
  • Support the Vibrant Village Programme by addressing the demand for agricultural and horticultural products in border areas.

Features of the MoU

  • ITBP will purchase fruits, vegetables, meat, and poultry directly from local farmers through APAMB.
  • Payments will be processed via a revolving fund of ₹4 crore, reimbursed after reconciliation by ITBP.
  • Farmers receive 100% of the funds from this initiative.

Milestones Achieved

  • 400 tons of produce worth ₹72 lakhs were supplied to the Indian Army under a similar agreement in August 2022.
  • Exchange of agricultural produce has already begun in regions like Tawang, Lower Subansiri, West Siang, Upper Siang, and Lohit.

Economic Impact

  • ₹10 crore annual business expected under the Mission.
  • Encourages participation in farming, doubling farmers’ income.
  • Strengthens women’s contribution to the rural economy, with over 1 lakh women involved in SHGs statewide.

Social and Strategic Benefits

  • Strengthens relationships between border residents and ITBP forces.
  • Promotes self-reliance and sustainability among farmers.
  • Encourages reverse migration by creating rural employment opportunities.

Leadership and Participation

  • MoU signed by APAMB CEO Okit Palling and ITBP NE Frontier Inspector General Akun Sabharwal.
  • Ceremony attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary, and senior officers from agricultural and allied sectors.
  • Deputy Commissioners, farmers, SHGs, and cooperatives participated virtually.

Future Goals

  • Expand market access for remote villages with limited surplus.
  • Integrate border regions into the state’s mainstream economy.
  • Encourage innovation and diversification in farming practices.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Arunachal Pradesh launches ‘Mission Himveer’ to boost local economy
Launch Date December 1, 2024
Key Stakeholders Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB), ITBP
Objectives Boost market linkages, support Vibrant Village Programme, promote rural employment
Economic Impact ₹10 crore annual business; 100% payment to farmers; ₹4 crore revolving fund
Key Milestones Previous supply of ₹72 lakh produce to Indian Army; Initial exchange in Tawang, Ziro, Aalo, etc.
Social Benefits Reverse migration, improved ties with ITBP, women’s empowerment in rural areas
Implementation Method Direct procurement by ITBP; APAMB manages payment through revolving fund
Future Goals Expand markets, enhance rural economies, and integrate border regions

Bangladesh’s 2024 Election: Boycott and Tensions Loom

Bangladesh is set to hold its general elections on Sunday, January 7, 2024, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina poised for a fourth consecutive term. However, the polls are marred by significant opposition boycotts, political violence, and accusations of an undemocratic process. With the main opposition party, BNP, choosing to abstain from the elections, citing lack of fairness, the ruling Awami League appears set to win. Tight security measures have been put in place, and the outcome will likely shape Bangladesh’s political landscape for the coming years.

Key Developments

Election Boycott: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is boycotting the polls, citing the government’s illegitimacy and recent arrests of political rivals. The BNP has called for a nationwide strike in protest.

Security & Violence: Amidst heightened security, violence has erupted in some districts with bombings and clashes between police and BNP supporters. These incidents have raised concerns over the safety and integrity of the election.

Foreign Monitoring: Over 100 foreign observers, including some from India, are monitoring the elections, which are expected to be decided on January 8.

Historical Context & Challenges

Previous Elections: Hasina’s government has faced criticism in past elections, notably the 2019 elections marred by violence and accusations of rigging. Despite these issues, Hasina’s Awami League has managed to retain power since 2009, consolidating its rule.

Economic Concerns: The ongoing economic struggles, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have led to public dissatisfaction. Critics fear a prolonged Hasina rule could worsen the economic situation, especially as the government turned to the IMF for assistance last year.

International Perspective

Global Reactions: The International Crisis Group has highlighted the critical situation in Bangladesh, urging both the Awami League and BNP to seek de-escalation after the elections. The Commonwealth Observer Group has also called the political atmosphere tense but emphasized that no democracy is perfect.

Summery of the news

Why in News Key Points
Bangladesh Election 2024 Bangladesh will hold general elections on January 7, 2024, with PM Sheikh Hasina expected to secure a fourth consecutive term.
BNP Boycott The main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is boycotting the elections citing unfairness and lack of legitimacy.
Voter Information 119.6 million registered voters eligible to vote at over 42,000 polling stations.
Candidates 1,500+ candidates from 27 political parties, plus 436 independent candidates.
Foreign Observers Over 100 foreign observers, including three from India, will monitor the election.
Election Security Army troops deployed nationwide for election security. Violence and clashes reported in some districts.
PM Hasina’s Party Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, is the ruling party, which has been in power since 2009.
Opposition Participation Jatiya Party (JAPA) and Awami League’s coalition parties are participating; BNP is boycotting.
Strike Call BNP has called a 48-hour nationwide strike from January 6 to 8 against the “illegal government.”
International Crisis Group Statement Bangladesh at a critical juncture with concerns over the lack of a credible opposition.
Hasina’s Address PM Hasina urged law-abiding parties not to disrupt the constitutional process.
Political Violence Arson and bombings reported in several districts; at least four deaths from train arson attack.
Economic Context Bangladesh’s economy faces challenges, worsened by the Russia-Ukraine war; IMF bailout received.
Awards/Recognition No direct awards or recognition mentioned in the article.
Relevant Figures Sheikh Hasina (Prime Minister of Bangladesh), Khaleda Zia (BNP leader under house arrest).
International Relations Bangladesh’s political situation attracting international attention, including from the International Crisis Group and Commonwealth.

TFT Full Form, Its Overview, Work, Benefits and Drawbacks

TFT stands for Thin Film Transistor. It is a special technology used in LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screens. TFT works by using a small electronic component, called a transistor, for every pixel on the screen. These transistors help switch the pixels on or off quickly, ensuring clear and smooth visuals.

Full Form of TFT

The full form of TFT is Thin Film Transistor. It is a technology used in LCD screens, where tiny transistors control each pixel. TFT ensures high resolution and fast image refresh rates, making it popular in devices like monitors, TVs, and smartphones.

How Does TFT Work?

In a TFT screen, each pixel is controlled by one to four tiny transistors. These transistors are arranged in a grid-like pattern, which is why TFT screens are also called active-matrix LCDs. This design helps create high-quality images and videos.

Common Devices that Use TFT Technology

TFT technology is widely used in many everyday devices, including:

  • Computer monitors
  • Televisions
  • Laptops
  • Smartphones
  • Navigation systems
  • Video gaming systems
  • Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)
  • AMOLED screens, which also include a TFT layer.

Benefits of TFT Technology

TFT offers several advantages:

  • Each pixel has its own transistor, which makes the display sharper and more detailed.
  • Fast refresh rate, as the image is updated several times per second. This ensures smoother visuals for videos and games.
  • High resolution, making it ideal for devices that need clear and bright screens.

Drawbacks of TFT Technology

While TFT has many benefits, it is also costly compared to other flat-screen technologies. This is because of its complex structure and high production costs.

Singapore Tops FDI Inflows to India, Contributing 50% in Q3

In the July-September quarter of 2024-25, Singapore emerged as the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for India, contributing a significant 50% of the total inflows, which amounted to USD 13.6 billion. This marks a 43% increase in overall FDI inflows to India, reflecting a strong recovery after a period of weak investment. Singapore’s cumulative FDI into India, spanning from April 2000 to March 2024, stands at approximately USD 159.94 billion, highlighting the country’s longstanding and vital role in India’s economic growth.

Key Highlights of FDI from Singapore

FDI Contribution: Singapore accounted for over USD 7.5 billion, making up half of the total FDI received by India in the quarter.

Total FDI Inflows: The overall FDI inflows to India in the quarter reached USD 13.6 billion, a 43% increase year-on-year.

Bilateral Trade

Trade Relationship: In 2023-24, Singapore was India’s sixth-largest global trade partner, with a total trade value of USD 35.61 billion, contributing 29% of India’s trade with ASEAN countries.

Long-Term Economic Partnership

Cumulative FDI from Singapore: From 2000 to 2024, Singapore’s cumulative FDI to India has crossed USD 159.94 billion, cementing its position as a critical partner in India’s economic development.

Summery of the news

Why in News Key Points
Singapore was the largest source of FDI for India in the July-September 2024-25 quarter, contributing 50% of the total FDI inflows, which amounted to USD 13.6 billion. – Singapore contributed 50% of the total FDI inflows to India, about USD 7.5 billion in the July-September quarter.
FDI from Singapore: Cumulative FDI from April 2000 to March 2024 stands at USD 159.94 billion.
Singapore’s contribution to India’s FDI growth is significant as India is in need of foreign investment. Bilateral trade: Singapore was India’s 6th largest global trade partner in 2023-24 with a trade value of USD 35.61 billion, accounting for 29% of India’s trade with ASEAN.
The FDI inflow to India rose by 43% in the same quarter, indicating a rebound in foreign investment. FDI Inflow to India: The total FDI for the quarter was USD 13.6 billion, a 43% increase compared to the previous period.
Singapore continues to demonstrate strong economic ties with India. Singapore High Commissioner to India: HC Wong expressed support for India’s FDI growth in a social media post.

Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Set To Introduce in the Lok Sabha

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to introduce the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha on 2nd December, 2024. The bill aims to amend several key banking-related legislations, including the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the State Bank of India Act, 1955, and the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts of 1970 and 1980. The amendments are expected to enhance the functioning and regulation of the banking sector, and the bill will be considered for debate and passage in the lower house of Parliament.

Key Amendments in the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024

1. Definition of Fortnight for Cash Reserves

Current Definition

  • The RBI Act defines a “fortnight” as the period from Saturday to the second following Friday (including both days) to calculate the average daily balance held by scheduled banks as cash reserves.

Proposed Amendment

The Bill changes the definition of a “fortnight” to:

  • The period from the 1st day to the 15th day of each month, and
  • The period from the 16th day to the last day of each month.

Impact

  • This change also applies under the Banking Regulation Act, where non-scheduled banks are required to maintain cash reserves.

2. Tenure of Directors of Co-operative Banks

Current Rule

  • Directors of co-operative banks (except the chairman or whole-time directors) cannot hold office for more than eight consecutive years.

Proposed Amendment

  • The Bill seeks to increase the tenure for directors of co-operative banks to 10 consecutive years.

Impact

  • This extension is expected to provide stability in the governance of co-operative banks.

3. Prohibition on Common Directors in Co-operative Banks

Current Rule

  • The Banking Regulation Act prohibits a director from serving on the boards of more than one bank, with exceptions for directors appointed by the RBI.

Proposed Amendment

  • The Bill extends this exemption to the directors of central co-operative banks, allowing them to serve on the board of a state co-operative bank in which they are a member.

Impact

  • This aims to enhance coordination and strengthen the leadership within the co-operative banking system.

4. Substantial Interest in a Company

Current Rule

  • The Banking Regulation Act defines “substantial interest” as holding shares worth more than ₹5 lakh or 10% of the paid-up capital, whichever is less.

Proposed Amendment

  • The Bill increases this threshold to ₹2 crore, allowing individuals and their families (spouse or minor children) to hold a larger stake before it is considered substantial.

Impact

  • This change is expected to relax restrictions on shareholding, particularly benefiting larger investors and corporate entities.

5. Nomination for Deposits and Bank Products

Current Rule

  • The Banking Regulation Act allows depositors to appoint a single nominee for their deposits, articles, or lockers.

Proposed Amendment

The Bill allows up to four nominees for,

  • Deposits (either simultaneously or successively).
  • Other items like articles and lockers (successively).

Impact

  • The Bill outlines that in case of simultaneous nominations, the distribution will be according to a declared proportion. For successive nominations, the person listed first in the order of nomination will have priority.

Outcome

  • This will facilitate the distribution of assets and clarify the rights of multiple nominees.

6. Settlement of Unclaimed Amounts

Current Rule

  • Under the State Bank of India Act and the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts of 1970 and 1980, unpaid or unclaimed dividends are transferred to an unpaid dividend account, and after seven years, they are moved to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).

Proposed Amendment

  • The Bill widens the scope of funds that can be transferred to the IEPF, now including:
  • Shares for which dividends have not been claimed for seven consecutive years.
  • Interest or redemption amounts for bonds that remain unpaid/unclaimed for seven years.

Impact

  • Individuals can claim unclaimed funds that have been transferred to the IEPF, helping to resolve outstanding claims and promote financial transparency.

7. Remuneration of Auditors

Current Rule

  • The remuneration for auditors of banks is decided by the RBI in consultation with the central government.

Proposed Amendment

  • The Bill empowers banks to determine the remuneration for their auditors independently.

Impact

  • This amendment is expected to streamline the process and reduce bureaucratic involvement in the auditing procedures of banks.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Set To Introduce in the Lok Sabha 
Key Amendment Current Rule Proposed Amendment Impact
1. Definition of Fortnight for Cash Reserves Fortnight is defined as the period from Saturday to the second following Friday. Redefines a fortnight as: 1st-15th day and 16th-last day of each month. Standardizes the calculation of cash reserves for scheduled and non-scheduled banks.
2. Tenure of Directors of Co-operative Banks Directors (except chairman/whole-time) cannot hold office for more than 8 consecutive years. Increases tenure to 10 consecutive years for directors of co-operative banks. Provides stability in co-operative banks’ governance.
3. Prohibition on Common Directors in Co-operative Banks Prohibits a director from serving on the boards of multiple banks, with exceptions for RBI-appointed directors. Extends exemption to allow directors of central co-operative banks to serve on state co-operative bank boards. Enhances coordination and strengthens leadership within co-operative banks.
4. Substantial Interest in a Company Defines substantial interest as shares worth more than ₹5 lakh or 10% of paid-up capital. Increases the threshold to ₹2 crore for substantial interest, including family members. Relaxation of restrictions, benefiting larger investors and corporate entities.
5. Nomination for Deposits and Bank Products Allows a single nominee for deposits, articles, or lockers. Allows up to four nominees for deposits and items like articles/lockers (simultaneously or successively). Facilitates distribution of assets and clarifies rights of multiple nominees.
6. Settlement of Unclaimed Amounts Unclaimed dividends are transferred to the IEPF after seven years. Expands scope to include unclaimed shares, interest, or redemption amounts for seven years. Enables individuals to claim unclaimed funds, promoting financial transparency.
7. Remuneration of Auditors Remuneration for auditors is decided by RBI in consultation with the government Banks can independently determine the remuneration for their auditors. Streamlines the process and reduces bureaucratic involvement in banking audits.

Which Country is Known as the Land of Incas?

Many countries have unique titles that highlight their history, culture, or natural beauty. These names often reflect something special about the country’s heritage or identity. In this article, we will know about the country which is known as the “Land of Incas.”

Land of Incas

Peru is known as the Land of the Incas. This South American country has a rich history connected to the Inca Empire, one of the greatest ancient civilizations in the world. Let’s explore more about this fascinating country.

Why is Peru Known as the Land of Incas?

Peru is called the Land of the Incas because it was home to the Inca Empire, the largest in pre-Columbian America. The Incas built wonders like Machu Picchu and made Cusco their center. Their culture, history, and language, Quechua, still influence Peru, keeping the legacy of the Incas alive.

History of the Incas

The Incas were an ancient tribe of American Indians who lived in Peru. They established the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. Their civilization began in the 12th century A.D. and became powerful over time. However, in the mid-16th century, the Spanish conquered the Incas, bringing their empire to an end.

The Heart of the Incas Empire

Cusco was the political, military, and administrative center of the Inca Empire. Today, Cusco is a large city in Peru and attracts visitors from all over the world who want to learn about Inca history and see its amazing ruins.

Machu Picchu, A Wonder of the Incas

One of the most famous contributions of the Incas is Machu Picchu, a breathtaking citadel located high in the Andes Mountains. It is considered one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Inca Empire and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

GST Collection for November Rises by 8.5% to ₹1.82 Trillion

India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue rose by 8.5% to ₹1.82 lakh crore in November 2024, compared to ₹1.68 lakh crore in the same month last year. The growth is primarily driven by higher revenues from domestic transactions, with GST from domestic transactions increasing by 9.4%. This increase is significant, though it follows a previous high of ₹1.87 lakh crore in October, which marked the second-best collection in GST history. In April 2024, India recorded its highest-ever GST collection of over ₹2.10 lakh crore.

Key GST Collection Figures for November 2024

  • Central GST: ₹34,141 crore
  • State GST: ₹43,047 crore
  • Integrated IGST: ₹91,828 crore
  • Cess: ₹13,253 crore

Growth in Domestic and Import-Based Revenues

Domestic Transactions: GST collection from domestic transactions grew by 9.4%, amounting to ₹1.40 lakh crore.

Imports: Revenues from imports saw a 6% rise, totaling ₹42,591 crore.

Refunds and Net GST Collection

Refunds: Refunds worth ₹19,259 crore were issued, a decline of 8.9% compared to the same period last year.

Net GST Collection: After adjusting for refunds, the net GST collection increased by 11%, reaching ₹1.63 lakh crore.

This November’s GST revenue performance continues the positive trend in the country’s tax collections, following a steady rise in the past months, including October’s second-highest collection and April’s record-setting figure.

Summery of the news

Why in News Key Points
GST Collection for November 2024 GST collection in November 2024 rose by 8.5% to ₹1.82 lakh crore, compared to ₹1.68 lakh crore in November 2023.
Breakdown of GST Collection Central GST: ₹34,141 crore; State GST: ₹43,047 crore; Integrated IGST: ₹91,828 crore; Cess: ₹13,253 crore.
Domestic and Import-Based GST Growth GST from domestic transactions grew 9.4% to ₹1.40 lakh crore; GST from imports rose by 6% to ₹42,591 crore.
Refunds Issued Refunds worth ₹19,259 crore issued, an 8.9% decline compared to last year.
Net GST Collection Net GST collection (after refunds) increased by 11% to ₹1.63 lakh crore.
Previous GST Collection Record October 2024 GST collection: ₹1.87 lakh crore (second-highest); April 2024 GST collection: ₹2.10 lakh crore (highest-ever).
Significance of GST Growth The 8.5% growth in GST collections shows consistent economic recovery, particularly from domestic transactions.

Filmfare OTT Awards 2024 Celebrating Digital Excellence

The 5th edition of the Filmfare OTT Awards 2024 was a grand celebration of the best in digital entertainment. The event highlighted the outstanding contributions from both films and series in the OTT space, with notable achievements in various categories. 

Overview

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar led the charge with 16 nominations, followed by Guns & Gulaabs and Kaala Paani. The Railway Men clinched the coveted Best Series award, while Amar Singh Chamkila, directed by Imtiaz Ali, dominated the film category, sweeping multiple accolades. Notable stars like Diljit Dosanjh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Ananya Panday received recognition for their exceptional performances.

Key Highlights of Filmfare OTT Awards 2024

  • Best Film, Web Original: Amar Singh Chamkila
  • Best Director, Web Original Film: Imtiaz Ali for Amar Singh Chamkila
  • Best Actor (Male), Web Original Film: Diljit Dosanjh for Amar Singh Chamkila
  • Best Actor (Female), Web Original Film: Kareena Kapoor Khan for Jaane Jaan
  • Best Supporting Actor (Male), Web Original Film: Jaideep Ahlawat for Maharaj
  • Best Supporting Actor (Female), Web Original Film: Wamiqa Gabbi for Khufiya
  • Best Series: The Railway Men
  • Best Director, Series: Sameer Saxena and Amit Golani for Kaala Paani
  • Best Actor (Male), Series (Comedy): Rajkummar Rao for Guns and Gulaabs
  • Best Actor (Female), Series (Drama): Manisha Koirala for Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar
  • Best Supporting Actor (Male), Series (Drama): R. Madhavan for The Railway Men
  • Best Supporting Actor (Female), Series (Drama): Mona Singh for Made in Heaven Season 2
  • Critics’ Award for Best Actor (Female) (Film): Ananya Panday for Kho Gaye Hum Kahan
  • Best Music Album, Film: A.R. Rahman for Amar Singh Chamkila
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Filmfare OTT Awards 2024
Best Film, Web Original Amar Singh Chamkila
Best Director, Web Original Film Imtiaz Ali for Amar Singh Chamkila
Best Actor (Male), Web Original Film Diljit Dosanjh for Amar Singh Chamkila
Best Actor (Female), Web Original Film Kareena Kapoor Khan for Jaane Jaan
Best Supporting Actor (Male), Web Original Film Jaideep Ahlawat for Maharaj
Best Supporting Actor (Female), Web Original Film Wamiqa Gabbi for Khufiya
Best Series The Railway Men
Best Director, Series Sameer Saxena and Amit Golani for Kaala Paani
Best Actor (Male), Series (Comedy) Rajkummar Rao for Guns and Gulaabs
Best Actor (Female), Series (Drama) Manisha Koirala for Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar
Best Supporting Actor (Male), Series (Drama) R. Madhavan for The Railway Men
Best Supporting Actor (Female), Series (Drama) Mona Singh for Made in Heaven Season 2
Best Actor (Female) (Film) Critics Ananya Panday for Kho Gaye Hum Kahan
Best Music Album, Film A.R. Rahman for Amar Singh Chamkila

FDI Inflows Jump 45% to USD 29.79 Billion in H1 FY 2024-25

India’s foreign direct investment (FDI) surged by 45% to USD 29.79 billion in the first half of FY 2024-25, compared to USD 20.5 billion in the same period last year. This growth is attributed to strong inflows in the services, computer, telecom, and pharma sectors, driven by key investors from Mauritius, Singapore, and the US. The July-September quarter alone saw a 43% increase, amounting to USD 13.6 billion, highlighting robust foreign confidence in India’s economic landscape. Maharashtra was the top recipient of FDI, further cementing its role as India’s financial hub.

Key Growth Drivers

Sectoral Growth

FDI surged in services (USD 5.69 billion from USD 3.85 billion), telecom, computer software and hardware, and pharma, reflecting India’s growing technological and service sectors. Non-conventional energy also saw notable FDI inflows, reaching USD 2 billion.

Top Contributing Countries

Major FDI sources included Mauritius (USD 5.34 billion), Singapore (USD 7.53 billion), the US (USD 2.57 billion), and the Netherlands (USD 3.58 billion). However, inflows from Japan and the UK decreased during the period.

Regional Distribution

Top States Receiving FDI

Maharashtra received the highest share of FDI, totaling USD 13.55 billion. Other major recipients included Karnataka (USD 3.54 billion), Telangana (USD 1.54 billion), and Gujarat (USD 4 billion), reflecting India’s evolving industrial and technological hubs.

Comparison with Previous Periods

FDI Growth from April-June 2024

The first quarter (April-June) saw a 47.8% increase in FDI to USD 16.17 billion. In contrast, during the same quarter last year, FDI stood at USD 10.94 billion, indicating a consistent upward trajectory in foreign investments.

Total FDI (Equity + Reinvested Earnings)

The total FDI, including equity, reinvested earnings, and other capital, grew by 28%, reaching USD 42.1 billion in the first half of FY 2024-25, compared to USD 33.12 billion during the same period last year.

Summery of the news

Why in News Key Points
FDI Inflows Increase by 45% FDI in India rose to USD 29.79 billion in April-September 2024, up 45% from USD 20.5 billion in the same period in 2023.
Sectoral Growth Highest FDI growth in the services sector (USD 5.69 billion, up from USD 3.85 billion in 2023). Other sectors like pharma, telecommunication, and computer software/hardware also saw significant inflows.
Top Countries Contributing to FDI Mauritius (USD 5.34 billion), Singapore (USD 7.53 billion), USA (USD 2.57 billion).
Declining FDI FDI from Japan and the UK decreased.
State-wise FDI Inflows Maharashtra received the highest FDI at USD 13.55 billion, followed by Karnataka (USD 3.54 billion), Telangana (USD 1.54 billion), and Gujarat (USD 4 billion).
DPIIT Data Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) released the FDI data.
FDI in Non-Conventional Energy USD 2 billion inflows in non-conventional energy sector.
FDI Quarterly Performance Q1 (April-June) saw a 47.8% rise in FDI to USD 16.17 billion. Q2 (July-September) saw a 43% increase to USD 13.6 billion.

 

Vikrant Massey Retires from Acting at 37

After a career spanning nearly two decades, acclaimed actor Vikrant Massey has announced his retirement from acting at the age of 37. Known for his versatility and powerful performances in TV, films, and OTT platforms, Vikrant made the announcement via an emotional note on Instagram. His decision has left fans shocked and emotional, as he plans to complete two final projects before stepping away in 2025.


Career Overview

Industry Experience: Nearly 20 years in TV, films, and OTT.

Notable Works

  • Recent performances in 12th Fail, The Sabarmati Report, and Sector 36.
  • Gained prominence with the TV show Balika Vadhu.
  • Achieved a sleeper blockbuster with 12th Fail.

Announcement Details

  • Vikrant shared an Instagram post expressing gratitude and explaining his decision:
  • Plans to retire to focus on his roles as a husband, father, and son.
  • Two final films (Yaar Jigri and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan) will be released before his retirement in 2025.
  • “Forever indebted” to fans for their support.

Legacy

  • Celebrated for delivering meaningful performances in films and OTT series.
  • His portrayal of characters in Broken But Beautiful, 12th Fail, and The Sabarmati Report earned him critical acclaim.
  • Fans cherish his commitment to delivering quality content and memorable roles.

Current Projects

  • Yaar Jigri: Upcoming film with emotional themes.
  • Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan: Another project marking his final appearances.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Vikrant Massey Retires from Acting at 37
Career Duration ~20 years in TV, films, and OTT
Retirement Reason Focus on family and personal recalibration
Last Films Yaar Jigri and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan
Recent Acclaimed Works 12th Fail, The Sabarmati Report, Sector 36
Legacy Known for delivering powerful and relatable performances
Final Retirement Year 2025