Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra

The Indian government has approved the construction of a new major port at Vadhavan in the Dahanu taluka of Palghar district, Maharashtra. This project, aligned with the PM Gatishakti programme, aims to boost India’s foreign trade capabilities and local economy. The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sanctioned this on June 19, 2024.

Developer and Stakeholders

The Vadhavan Port, envisioned as India’s largest deep draft port, will be constructed by Vadhavan Port Project Limited (VPPL), a special purpose vehicle formed by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB). JNPA holds a 74% stake in the SPV, while MMB holds 26%.

Project Specifications and Cost

The total cost of the Vadhavan project is Rs. 76,220 crore, encompassing land acquisition, core infrastructure development, and commercial infrastructure. The port will be developed in a public-private partnership (PPP) mode, featuring reclaimed land, breakwaters, and extensive container and cargo storage areas.

Features of Vadhavan Port

  • Land Reclamation: 1,448 hectares of sea land will be reclaimed.
  • Infrastructure: Construction of 10.14 km of offshore breakwater.
  • Terminals and Berths: Nine container terminals (each 1000 meters long), four multipurpose berths, four liquid cargo berths, a Ro-Ro berth, and a berth for the Coast Guard.
  • Capacity: Annual cargo handling capacity of 298 million metric tons (MMT), including 23.2 million TEUs of container handling.

Connectivity

The Union Cabinet also approved the establishment of road connectivity between Vadhavan Port and National Highways, along with rail linkage to the existing network and the upcoming Dedicated Rail Freight Corridor.

Significance

Located on India’s west coast, Vadhavan Port will be a modern facility poised to enhance foreign trade through the IMEEC (India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor) and INSTC (International North South Transportation Corridor). The port aims to integrate with international shipping lines between the Far East, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, with a goal to rank among the world’s top 10 major ports. Additionally, it is projected to create direct and indirect employment for 12 lakh people, boosting the local economy.

Challenges and Opposition

Local fishermen and farmers are opposing the port’s construction, fearing adverse impacts on their livelihoods. Environmentalists also argue that the project will harm the ecologically fragile Dahanu area, raising significant environmental concerns.

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

RBI grants Payment Aggregator License to SabPaisa

SabPaisa (SRS Live Technologies Private Limited), a payment solutions provider, has announced that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted final approval to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA) under the Payments and Settlement Systems Act of 2007.

Complete payment aggregation services to merchants

The licence would enable SabPaisa to provide complete payment aggregation services to merchants throughout the country. SabPaisa. It was founded in 2016, has provided innovative payment gateway solutions as well as related goods such as Payouts and Subscriptions.

Approval from The RBI

“Securing the final approval from the RBI marks a significant milestone for SabPaisa,” said Pathikrit Dasgupta, the company’s CEO. “It demonstrates our ongoing commitment to quality and reaffirms our desire to emerge as India’s preeminent fintech institution. We are prepared to seize this chance to provide unique solutions, assuring our competitiveness and future resilience.”

Impact on SabPaisa’s revenue

The RBI’s payment aggregator structure, implemented in March 2020, requires that only authorised businesses provide payment aggregation services to merchants. SabPaisa now joins Juspay, Razorpay, Stripe, neo-bank Open, and others in getting RBI authorization as a payment aggregator. SabPaisa’s revenue has increased by twofold, and the company expects to grow at the same rate in the current fiscal year.

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is the Capital of Purvanchal?

Uttar Pradesh, a major state in Northern India, holds the title of the most populous state in the country. According to the 2011 Census, its population was recorded at 199,812,341, which has now surged to nearly 240 million. Uttar Pradesh is the fourth largest state in India by area, spanning 240,928 square kilometers, which accounts for 7.33% of the total area of India. The state is divided into several regions, including Awadh, Bundelkhand, and Purvanchal. This article delves into which district is considered the capital of Purvanchal.

Historical Background of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh’s reorganization took place on November 1, 1956. Prior to this, it was known as the North-Western Provinces since 1836. The name changed to the North-Western Provinces and Oudh in 1877, then to the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh in 1902. In 1937, it was simply called the United Provinces, and finally, on January 24, 1950, it was renamed Uttar Pradesh.

Regions of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is divided into several distinct regions:

  • Doab Region: The Doab region, known as the land between the Yamuna and Ganges rivers, stretches from Saharanpur to Prayagraj.
  • Bundelkhand: This region includes districts such as Lalitpur, Jhansi, and Banda.
  • Baghelkhand: Baghelkhand comprises districts like Chitrakoot.
  • Rohilkhand: Rohilkhand includes districts such as Bareilly, Pilibhit, and Sambhal.
  • Awadh: Awadh is another prominent region that includes districts like Lucknow, Raebareli, and Unnao.
  • Purvanchal: Purvanchal is an important region in Uttar Pradesh, encompassing 17 districts, including Ballia, Sonbhadra, Deoria, Ghazipur, and Varanasi.

Introduction to Purvanchal

Purvanchal is a geographical region located in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh. It borders Nepal to the north, Bihar to the east, Baghelkhand of Madhya Pradesh to the south, and Awadh to the west. Purvanchal has a long-standing demand to be recognized as a separate state. It sends 117 representatives to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly and 23 members to the Lok Sabha.

Development Status of Purvanchal

Purvanchal is considered less developed compared to Western Uttar Pradesh. The western part of the state, known as the Doab region, benefits from fertile land conducive to agriculture, making Uttar Pradesh the largest producer of sugarcane and wheat in India.

Capital of Purvanchal

Varanasi, known as the spiritual city, is regarded as the capital of Purvanchal. This district is not only a cultural and religious hub but also one of the oldest cities in India. Varanasi’s rich history and cultural heritage contribute to its status as the capital of Purvanchal. Additionally, it is a significant tourist destination, attracting a large number of visitors annually.

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_8.1

Indian Armed Forces Unveil Unified Cyberspace Doctrine

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan released the Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations during the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) meeting held on June 18, 2024, in New Delhi. The Joint Doctrine is a keystone publication that will guide Commanders in conducting Cyberspace Operations in today’s complex military operating environment.

Development of Joint Doctrines

Development of Joint Doctrines is an important aspect of Jointness and Integration, a step which is being actively pursued by the Indian Armed Forces. The Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations is a significant step to give impetus to the ongoing process. In addition to the traditional domains of warfare including Land, Sea, and Air, Cyberspace has emerged as a crucial and challenging domain in modern warfare. Unlike territorial limits in the domains of land, sea, and air, cyberspace is a global common and hence has shared sovereignty.

Hostile actions in cyberspace

Hostile actions in cyberspace can impact the Nation’s economy, cohesion, political decision making, and the Nation’s ability to defend itself. Operations in cyberspace need to be dovetailed into the National Security fabric, to evolve the ‘Ends,’ ‘Ways’ and ‘Means’ to create advantage and influence events in all other operational environments and across all instruments of power.

Emphasis on understanding military aspects

This doctrine lays emphasis on understanding military aspects of cyberspace operations and provides conceptual guidance to commanders, staff and practitioners in the planning, and conduct of operations in cyberspace, as also to raise awareness in our warfighters at all levels.

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

S. Tripathy Appointed as the First Director of UVCE

On this significant day for higher education in Karnataka, the State government has made a crucial appointment that marks a new era for the University of Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE). This appointment represents an important step in the institution’s history and development.

Key Appointment

S. Tripathy, a distinguished professor from the Department of Geology and Geophysics at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, has been named the first director of UVCE. This appointment is a milestone in the college’s journey towards excellence in engineering education.

Terms of Appointment

Prof. Tripathy’s tenure comes with specific terms:

  • Duration: Four years from the date of assuming office
  • Age Limit: Up to attaining the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier

Background and Significance

Previous Appointment

This appointment comes after a previous attempt to fill this crucial position:

  • D. Manjunath, professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B), was initially appointed on March 8, 2023.
  • However, Prof. Manjunath did not assume the role even after a year of his appointment.

Importance for UVCE

The appointment of a director is a critical step for UVCE:

  • It signifies the institution’s growth and progression
  • It demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening higher education
  • It promises new leadership and potential advancements in engineering education

Looking Ahead

As UVCE welcomes its first director, the institution stands at the threshold of a new phase:

  • Enhanced academic leadership can be expected
  • Potential for new initiatives and collaborations
  • Opportunities for growth and development in engineering education and research

Celebrating Progress in Education

While not a traditional celebration day, this appointment marks a day worth noting in the academic calendar:

  • It represents progress in educational administration
  • It highlights the importance of leadership in academic institutions
  • It’s a day that could shape the future of many aspiring engineers

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice 2024

The summer solstice is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the Earth’s axis is most tilted towards the sun. It marks the:

  • Longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere (usually June 20th or 21st)
  • Shortest day of the year in the Southern Hemisphere (usually December 21st or 22nd)

This celestial event has captivated cultures worldwide for millennia, inspiring celebrations and traditions.

A New Global Observance

The United Nations established the International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice in 2020. This recognition highlights the cultural significance and unifying power of this natural event across diverse societies.

The Science Behind the Solstice

Earth’s Tilt and Seasons

The Earth’s 23.5-degree tilt is responsible for our seasons. During the solstice:

  • One hemisphere receives direct sunlight
  • The other experiences the beginning of winter

Day and Night

On the summer solstice:

  • Daylight hours are at their maximum
  • The sun reaches its highest point in the sky

Cultural Significance

Ancient Traditions

Many cultures have long celebrated the solstice:

  • Stonehenge in England aligns with the solstice sun
  • Scandinavian Midsummer festivals feature bonfires and feasts
  • The Inti Raymi sun festival in Peru honors the Incan sun god

Symbol of Transformation

The solstice represents:

  • A time for reflection and renewal
  • The balance between light and darkness
  • An opportunity to set intentions for the coming months

Celebrating the Solstice

Global Festivities

Communities worldwide mark the occasion with:

  • Bonfires and outdoor gatherings
  • Cultural performances and rituals
  • Nature-based activities

Personal Observances

Individuals can celebrate by:

  • Spending time outdoors
  • Practicing mindfulness or meditation
  • Setting personal goals for the coming season

Significance of the International Day

Cultural Heritage

The UN recognizes the solstice as an embodiment of:

  • Unity in cultural heritage
  • Centuries-old traditions
  • The connection between humans and nature

Promoting Understanding

This international day aims to:

  • Strengthen ties among peoples
  • Foster mutual respect
  • Promote ideals of peace and good-neighborliness

Other Important June Dates

Northern Hemisphere

  • Summer solstice (June 20th or 21st)
  • Sun reaches its northernmost point (Tropic of Cancer)

Southern Hemisphere

  • Winter solstice (December 21st or 22nd)
  • Sun reaches its southernmost point (Tropic of Capricorn)

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

Global Wind Energy Council India Appoints Girish Tanti from Suzlon Group As New Chairman

As Global Wind Day(June 17) is celebrated across the world. GWEC India has announced that Mr Girish Tanti, Vice-Chairman of Suzlon Group, has been appointed as the Chairman. The position plays a key role in driving GWEC India’s work with national and state government’s that assist government and industry’s efforts for building the right momentum and establishing policy frameworks that will ensure India delivers on its enormous wind energy and supply chain potential, both onshore and offshore.

Dual role with GWEC

Mr. Tanti steps up to the position to take a dual role with GWEC, having assumed the position of Vice-Chair with the Global Wind Energy Council earlier this year. As the world’s fourth biggest wind market, with 46 GW of onshore wind and one of the world’s most prominent wind energy manufacturing hubs, Mr. Tanti’s leadership at GWEC and GWEC India shall help further catalyze momentum, driven by the ambitions of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, accelerate dialogue and delivery to ensure the country’s enormous potential is realised.

India’s ranked fourth in the world

Mr Girish Tanti, GWEC India Chair, and GWEC Vice-Chair, said: “Ranked fourth in the world, India is one of the most crucial countries for Wind Energy, today. There is unanimous global consensus that India will play an instrumental role in accelerating the tripling of renewables and helping achieve global renewables and energy transition targets not just in installations but also as a key player in the global supply chain. GWEC is the most credible and active global platform to champion Wind Energy across the world. We believe that a lot of foundational and transformative work can be done within the Indian Wind Energy sector as well with all its stakeholders and policymakers. As India Chair of GWEC, I look forward to making GWEC even more impactful in India and also the opportunity to take the Indian Wind Energy sector to the world from a position of strength.”

Successful history with the Tanti Family

Mr Ben Backwell, CEO of GWEC, said: “The Global Wind Energy Council has a long, successful history with the Tanti family, and we are delighted to welcome Mr. Girish Tanti to the position of GWEC India’s Chair.

Wind Energy in India

It is an exciting time for wind energy in India, with the new government, under the leadership of Prime Minister, driving plans to deliver transformative action to realise India’s ambitious energy transition and energy security goals, where wind and renewables play a pivotal role. The country has enormous potential for onshore wind, offshore wind and as a global supply chain hub. We look forward to further strengthening our work with national and state governments, key regional stakeholders and the global wind industry, focused on driving India’s continued wind energy expansion. Girish Tanti, as GWEC India’s Chair, will ensure a clear vision and a focus on action that will stimulate the industry’s work.

 

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

International Day of Yoga 2024 Celebrates on 21st June Globally

International Yoga Day is a worldwide celebration of yoga, an ancient Indian practice that promotes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Observed annually on June 21st, this special day brings together millions of people across the globe for yoga classes, workshops, and talks. From serene mountain retreats to bustling city squares, people unite in their pursuit of holistic health and inner peace.

10th Anniversary Milestone

The year 2024 marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of International Yoga Day. This landmark occasion reflects the growing global recognition of yoga’s profound impact on individual and collective well-being.

2024 Theme: “Yoga for Self and Society”

This year’s theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” highlights the transformative power of yoga at both personal and community levels. It emphasizes how yoga can:

  • Foster harmony between mind and body
  • Balance thought and action
  • Unite restraint and fulfillment
  • Integrate body, mind, spirit, and soul

The theme encourages practitioners to explore how yoga can benefit not only themselves but also contribute to the well-being of society as a whole.

Understanding Yoga: More Than Just Exercise

Definition and Origin

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. The word ‘yoga’ comes from Sanskrit, meaning “to join” or “to unite,” symbolizing the connection between body and consciousness.

A Holistic Approach

Yoga is not merely a physical exercise; it’s a comprehensive system that addresses various aspects of human existence:

  • Physical postures (asanas) improve flexibility, strength, and balance
  • Breathing techniques (pranayama) enhance lung capacity and reduce stress
  • Meditation practices cultivate mental clarity and emotional stability
  • Ethical principles guide practitioners towards a more harmonious life

Global Popularity

Today, yoga is practiced in various forms worldwide and continues to grow in popularity. Its adaptability to different cultures and lifestyles has contributed to its widespread appeal.

The Birth of International Yoga Day

Prime Minister Modi’s Vision

The idea for International Yoga Day was first proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the UN General Assembly in 2014. He envisioned a day that would celebrate yoga’s universal appeal and promote its numerous benefits.

United Nations Recognition

Recognizing yoga’s potential to contribute to global well-being, the United Nations officially proclaimed June 21st as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014. This resolution (69/131) was supported by an unprecedented 175 member states, highlighting the international community’s enthusiasm for yoga.

Choosing the Date

June 21st was selected as it coincides with the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. This longest day of the year symbolizes:

  • A period of growth and development
  • Renewed connections with nature and oneself
  • The transition from darkness to light

The Significance of International Yoga Day

Raising Global Awareness

The primary aim of International Yoga Day is to increase worldwide awareness about the many benefits of practicing yoga. It serves as a platform to:

  • Educate people about yoga’s positive impact on health and well-being
  • Encourage individuals to incorporate yoga into their daily lives
  • Promote cultural exchange and understanding

Addressing Global Health Challenges

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes yoga as a valuable tool in addressing several health concerns:

  • Reducing physical inactivity, a leading cause of death worldwide
  • Lowering the risk of non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular issues, cancer, and diabetes
  • Improving overall well-being and quality of life

Fostering Unity and Peace

Yoga’s emphasis on inner peace and harmony aligns with broader goals of promoting understanding and cooperation among nations. By bringing people together in a shared practice, International Yoga Day contributes to:

  • Cross-cultural dialogue
  • Social cohesion
  • A sense of global community

Celebrating International Yoga Day

Global Participation

Since its inception, International Yoga Day has grown into a truly global event. Participation includes:

  • Government-sponsored events in public spaces
  • Yoga institutes offering free classes and workshops
  • Individual practitioners organizing community sessions
  • Online platforms hosting virtual yoga gatherings

Diverse Activities

Celebrations typically feature a wide range of activities:

  • Mass yoga sessions in iconic locations
  • Workshops on different yoga styles and techniques
  • Lectures on yoga philosophy and its benefits
  • Cultural performances related to yoga and meditation

The Impact of International Yoga Day

Promoting Healthier Lifestyles

By highlighting yoga’s benefits, the day encourages people to adopt healthier lifestyle choices. This can lead to:

  • Improved physical fitness
  • Better stress management
  • Enhanced mental clarity
  • Greater overall well-being

Scientific Recognition

The growing popularity of International Yoga Day has spurred increased scientific research into yoga’s effects. Studies have demonstrated yoga’s positive impact on:

  • Stress reduction
  • Pain management
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression

Cultural Exchange

The day provides an opportunity for cultural exchange, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to experience and appreciate India’s yoga tradition while adapting it to their own cultural contexts.

 

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

Largest Radish Producing State in India

Radish, a root vegetable with crisp texture and pungent flavor, holds a significant place in Indian agriculture. Among the states producing this versatile crop, Uttar Pradesh stands out as the largest radish producer in India. This article delves into the factors contributing to Uttar Pradesh’s dominance in radish production, the agricultural practices involved, and the economic and social impact of this crop on the state.

Largest Radish Producing State in India

Haryana, the largest radish producing state in India, yields 5,50,070 tonnes annually, contributing 16.44% to the country’s total radish production. This significant output underscores the profitability and agricultural prowess of Haryana’s radish cultivation sector.

Factors Contributing to Radish Production

  • Climate and Soil Conditions: Haryana’s climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, coupled with fertile alluvial soil, creates ideal conditions for radish cultivation. The state experiences a sufficient cold period during winters, which is crucial for the growth of radishes.
  • Agricultural Practices: Farmers in Haryana employ modern agricultural techniques, including mechanization and efficient irrigation methods, which optimize radish yields. Crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers also enhance productivity and soil health.
  • Government Support: The state government of Haryana provides subsidies, agricultural extension services, and infrastructure support to farmers engaged in radish cultivation. This support encourages farmers to adopt advanced farming practices and improve their yield and income.

Economic Significance

Radish cultivation significantly contributes to Haryana’s economy through various channels:

  • Employment: It provides employment opportunities to a large number of people, including farmers, laborers, and traders involved in cultivation, harvesting, and marketing.
  • Revenue Generation: Radish farming generates substantial revenue for farmers and contributes to the state’s agricultural income. The produce is sold in local markets as well as supplied to other states, ensuring economic growth and stability.
  • Export Potential: Haryana’s radish production also has export potential, contributing to India’s agricultural exports. The quality and quantity of radishes produced in Haryana meet international standards, facilitating export to foreign markets.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While Haryana leads in radish production, it faces challenges such as water scarcity, changing climatic patterns, and pest management issues. However, with ongoing research, technological advancements, and government initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture, the future prospects for radish cultivation in Haryana remain promising.

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_8.1

UK Surpasses China to Become India’s 4th Largest Export Market

The United Kingdom (UK) has overtaken China to become India’s fourth-largest export market in May 2024, commerce department data showed. The UK was India’s sixth-largest export destination in May last year. While exports to the UK grew by a third to $1.37 billion in May, the shipments to China saw 3 per cent growth at $1.33 billion last month.

Exports to the UK

The disaggregated data for May wasn’t immediately available, but trends over the past few months showed that exports to the UK were dominated by items such as machinery, food items, pharmaceutical products, textiles, jewellery, iron, and steel, among other items. Commerce department data showed that India’s top 10 key export markets witnessed positive growth in May, reversing the trend when exports to some of these countries contracted for more than a year. These 10 countries comprise 52 per cent of the country’s total value of goods exported in May. India’s merchandise exports grew 9.13 per cent in May to $38 billion. This came in after several months of tepid growth in outbound shipments, amid volatile global demand and uneven economic recovery.

Export to the other Countries

Export to the Netherlands, which is also India’s third-largest export market, soared to $2.19 billion with nearly 44 per cent growth in May. Other countries that showed positive growth include Saudi Arabia (8.46 per cent), Singapore (4.64 per cent), Bangladesh (13.47 per cent), Germany (6.74 per cent), France (36.94 per cent). The United States (US) continued to remain India’s largest export destination, with 13 per cent growth, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which saw 19 per cent jump.

India’s Import market

Out of India’s top 10 import markets, inbound shipments from only Saudi Arabia and Switzerland in May contracted 4.11 per cent and 32.33 per cent, respectively, the data showed. The remaining eight witnessed growth in May, in line with the overall merchandise imports that rose 7.7 per cent to $61.91 billion. Imports from Russia grew 18 per cent to $7.1 billion, mainly due to India’s dependency on crude oil. The country continued to remain India’s second-largest import destination, after China. In the case of China, the rise was 2.81 per cent at $8.48 billion. Imports from Switzerland, which is mainly driven by gold imports, contracted by nearly a third to $1.52 billion. 

 

Cabinet Green Signals Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra_4.1

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Welcome to the Current Affairs Section of Adda247. If you are preparing for Government Job Exams, then it is very important for you to read the Daily Current Affairs. All the important updates based on current affairs are included in this Daily Current Affairs 2024 article.

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