Paytm Launches 'Health Saathi' Plan at ₹35 per Month for Merchant Partners

Paytm Launches ‘Health Saathi’ Plan at ₹35 per Month for Merchant Partners

One 97 Communications Limited, the parent company of Paytm, has introduced ‘Paytm Health Saathi’, an affordable healthcare and income protection plan tailored for its merchant partners. Available through the ‘Paytm for Business’ app, this initiative aims to support the well-being and business continuity of Paytm’s extensive network of merchants.

Key Features of Paytm Health Saathi

Affordable Subscription

Starting at just ₹35 per month, the plan includes unlimited doctor teleconsultations and in-person OPD visits within the Paytm partner network.

Income Protection

Provides coverage against business interruptions due to accidents or natural calamities like floods, fires, or strikes.

Additional Benefits

Discounts on pharmacy purchases and diagnostic tests are also offered through the doctor teleconsultation service.

Streamlined Claims

Claims can be processed conveniently within the app interface, ensuring ease of use for merchants.

Deployment and Impact

The pilot phase of ‘Paytm Health Saathi’ commenced in May, with over 3000 merchant partners already benefiting from the plan. Following positive feedback, Paytm has expanded availability to all its merchants.

Corporate Update

Paytm’s parent company, One 97 Communications, is currently trading at ₹418.15 per share, reflecting its ongoing financial performance and strategic initiatives in digital payments and financial services distribution in India.

Ex-Spy Chief Sworn In as New Dutch PM with Mission to Curb Asylum

Former spy chief Dick Schoof is the new Dutch prime minister, leading a right-wing coalition with a focus on implementing the “strictest-ever” immigration policy. Schoof, 67, previously headed the Dutch Secret Service and takes over from Mark Rutte, who served 14 years in power.

Coalition Dynamics and Leadership

Geert Wilders’ far-right party, the Freedom Party (PVV), secured five ministerial posts.
Wilders stepped back from his own prime ministerial ambitions to maintain coalition stability.
Schoof, a former Labour Party member, was chosen as a compromise candidate due to his extensive government experience.

Immigration Policy

The coalition’s 26-page agreement, “Hope, Courage, and Pride,” outlines strict asylum and migration policies.
Schoof is committed to implementing these policies decisively.

Political and Public Challenges

Schoof aims to be a prime minister for all Dutch citizens and maintains independence from Wilders.
Managing coalition partners’ ideological and personal conflicts will be a key challenge.
Schoof’s past experience includes leading the Dutch investigation into the MH17 disaster.

International Relations

The coalition agreement also considers moving the Dutch embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Rutte’s Legacy

Mark Rutte, known for his survival skills in politics, will become NATO’s next secretary-general.
His term ended amidst scandals, including wrongful accusations of child allowance fraud and issues related to gas extraction-induced earthquakes in Groningen.

Where is Tomb of Akbar Located in Uttar Pradesh?

Location of Tomb of Akbar in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is renowned worldwide for its rich cultural heritage. This Indian state boasts a vibrant history and unique traditions. Many sultans and Mughal emperors have ruled here, and their historical monuments still stand as a testament to their reigns. One of the most famous Mughal emperors, Akbar, spent much of his life in Uttar Pradesh. Do you know in which district of Uttar Pradesh Akbar’s tomb is located? If not, this article will provide you with all the information.

Total Districts of Uttar Pradesh

First, let’s take a look at the total number of districts in Uttar Pradesh. The state has a total of 75 districts, organized into 18 divisions. Additionally, it includes 200 municipal councils (2022), 17 municipal corporations, 351 tehsils, 546 town panchayats, 75 district panchayats, 826 community development blocks, and over 58,000 gram panchayats.

Akbar’s Tomb

Uttar Pradesh is globally known for its cultural heritage, which sets it apart from other states. The history books are filled with accounts of various sultans and Mughal emperors who ruled this land.

One such emperor is Akbar the Great, a name most of us have read or heard about. Uttar Pradesh houses many historical buildings attributed to this great Mughal ruler. Akbar spent a significant portion of his life in this state. Do you know in which district Akbar’s tomb is situated? Let’s find out in this article.

Buildings Constructed by Akbar in Uttar Pradesh

Several historical buildings in Uttar Pradesh were constructed by the Mughal emperor Akbar, including:

Agra Fort
Buland Darwaza
Fatehpur Sikri
Allahabad Fort
Jodha Bai’s Palace

Location of Akbar’s Tomb

Akbar’s tomb is located in the Sikandra suburb of Agra district, situated on National Highway-2. Each year, a large number of domestic and international tourists visit this site.

Construction of the Tomb

The construction of Akbar’s tomb was initiated by his son, Jahangir, in 1605 and completed in 1613. The total cost of construction at that time was approximately 1.5 million rupees. The tomb, made of red sandstone, is renowned for its architectural beauty.

Jodha Bai’s Contribution

After Akbar’s death, his wife Jodha Bai commissioned the construction of a garden near his tomb. Following her death, Jahangir buried Jodha Bai near Akbar’s grave. She is the only wife of Akbar whose grave lies beside his.

UP NIRMAN Bill-2024, Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Passes Draft

Uttar Pradesh (UP), the state government has passed the draft for the Uttar Pradesh Nodal Investment Region for Manufacturing (Construction) Area Bill (NIRMAN)-2024. This initiative, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is part of a broader strategy to uplift the state’s economy to the one trillion dollar mark.

What are the objective and framework of UP Government?

Special Investment Regions (SIRs) are supposed to be set up all over UP by the NIRMAN-2024 bill. The plan is for these areas to be spread out evenly across the state’s four geographical zones. To make these SIRs, cluster regions for big investments are being built. The goal is to give power from the state government to regional officials, which will make doing business easier.

Strategic Development and Economic Impact

For these SIRs, UP wants to use about 20,000 acres of land from its land bank under the NIRMAN-2024 plan. Each place, like the big 5,000-hectare area set aside by the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority, will make it easier for big business and industrial activities to happen. This is supposed to make the economy grow very quickly, protect investment zones legally, make it easier for businesses to run, and give a lot of jobs to people in the area.

Investors from the world

To get investment from around the world and across the country, UP wants to copy what has worked in other states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka. The government’s plan includes using and improving current frameworks in UP to make room for and attract big business investments.

Additional Developments

A Memorandum of Understanding between the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO) and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) for creating a good environment for business was signed at the same time as the NIRMAN-2024 bill. Large convention centers are being built in Lucknow and Varanasi to make MSME more visible and promote local output. Putting back on temporary duty more than 2,200 teachers in secondary schools that the government doesn’t subsidize to fix the problems caused by teachers having to leave early because of a Supreme Court order. If these plans are carried out well, they could greatly speed up UP’s progress toward becoming a trillion-dollar economy while also promoting long-term growth and creating jobs.

What are Special Investment Regions (SIR)?

Investment Zones: Special Investment Regions (SIRs) are designated areas meant to bring in investments by making it easier to do business and improve facilities and infrastructure. Often, they offer tax breaks and other benefits to encourage growth.
Economic Boost: SIRs focus on areas like technology and industry to help local economies grow, create jobs, and push technology forward. In India, the Gujarat SIRD Act is an example of this kind of government.
Global Examples: China’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Free Trade Zones (FTZs) are similar ideas on a global level, though SIRs usually have wider economic goals and cover more land.

Ex-R&AW Chief Rajinder Khanna Appointed New Additional NSA

The government has recently strengthened the National Security Council (NSC) by making several high-profile appointments. Former Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) chief Rajinder Khanna has been promoted to Additional National Security Adviser (NSA). T V Ravichandran and Pavan Kapoor have also been appointed as Deputy NSAs.

Background of Rajinder Khanna

Rajinder Khanna is a 1978-batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre. He served as the R&AW Chief from December 2014 to December 2016. Khanna was appointed deputy NSA in January 2018, where he headed the Technology and Intelligence (T&I) section. Known for his expertise on Pakistan and terrorism, Khanna also led the operations desk in R&AW.

New Deputy NSAs

T V Ravichandran: A 1990-batch IPS officer of the Tamil Nadu Cadre, currently serving as Special Director in the Intelligence Bureau.
Pavan Kapoor: Former Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs.

Leadership of the National Security Council

The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) is headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with NSA Ajit Doval serving as its secretary. Doval, a 1968-batch IPS officer, has been India’s NSA since 2014 and is a key aide to the Prime Minister, especially on policy matters. Doval has advocated for jointness and interoperability among central armed police forces, similar to the ongoing plans for the defense forces.

George Russell Triumphs in Dramatic Austrian Grand Prix 2024

The Austrian Grand Prix 2024 will be remembered as a day of unexpected twists and turns, culminating in a stunning victory for George Russell of Mercedes. This race, held at the iconic Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria, showcased the unpredictable nature of Formula 1 racing and the skill of drivers who can capitalize on sudden opportunities.

A Surprising Turn of Events

The Collision That Changed Everything

The defining moment of the race came on Lap 64 of 71, when championship leader Max Verstappen of Red Bull and Lando Norris of McLaren collided while battling for the lead. This incident dramatically altered the course of the race and opened the door for Russell to claim his second career victory.

Russell’s Road to Victory

George Russell, who started the race in third position, drove a flawless race and was perfectly positioned to take advantage when the leaders encountered trouble. His win marks Mercedes’ first victory since November 2022, when Russell himself won in Brazil.

The Podium Finishers

George Russell (Mercedes) – A well-deserved win and a career milestone
Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – An impressive second place for the young driver
Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) – A solid performance to round out the podium

Key Moments and Performances

The Start and Early Stages

The race began with Max Verstappen on pole position, flanked by Lando Norris on the front row. The early laps saw intense battles throughout the field, with drivers jockeying for position on the challenging Red Bull Ring circuit.

The Crucial Collision

As the race entered its final stages, the battle for the lead intensified. On Lap 64, Verstappen and Norris came together, resulting in punctures for both drivers. This incident had far-reaching consequences:

Lando Norris was forced to retire from the race
Max Verstappen rejoined but could only manage a fifth-place finish
George Russell inherited the lead and held on for the win

Other Notable Performances

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) finished fourth, completing a strong day for the team
Nico Hulkenberg (Haas) impressed with a sixth-place finish
Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull) scored points with a ninth-place result

Final Standings and Championship Implications

The top 10 finishers of the Austrian Grand Prix 2024:

George Russell (Mercedes)
Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
Nico Hulkenberg (Haas)
Sergio Perez (Red Bull)
Kevin Magnussen (Haas)
Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull)
Pierre Gasly (Alpine)

This result will undoubtedly have significant implications for both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. While Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ standings remains substantial, the unexpected result gives hope to his rivals and adds excitement to the championship battle.

ISRO’s Aditya-L1 Completes First Halo Orbit

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on June 2, announced that India’s inaugural solar mission has completed its halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 point on July 2. This significant breakthrough was achieved after a station keeper manoeuvre made its transition into the second halo orbit.

About Aditya-L1 Mission

The Aditya-L1 mission is an Indian solar observatory installed at the Lagrangian point L1 and was launched in September 2023. ISRO observed that the Aditya-L1 spacecraft completed circling the L1 point in the halo orbit in 178 days. The spacecraft was positioned into the intended halo orbit by ISRO on January 6, 2024.

What are the objectives of Aditya-L1?

The Aditya-L1 mission aims to study the Sun’s upper atmosphere, focusing on the chromosphere and corona. Its objectives include investigating heating mechanisms, ionised plasma physics, coronal mass ejections, and flares. It is sent to observe the particle and plasma environment, examine solar corona physics, diagnose plasma properties, and study the development of coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The mission also aims to identify processes leading to solar eruptions, measure magnetic fields in the corona, and investigate space weather drivers like the solar wind.

Aditya-L1 put into second orbit

The Indian space agency said that to maintain this orbit, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft underwent three station-keeping manoeuvres – on February 22, June 7, and July 2, ensuring its transition into the second halo orbit. These manoeuvres counteract perturbing forces that could push the spacecraft off course, it added.

Difficulties in keeping Aditya-L1 in orbit

Aditya-L1’s journey around the Sun-Earth L1 Lagrangian point requires careful planning and understanding of various forces that can push it off course. By studying these forces, ISRO could accurately plot the spacecraft’s path and plan necessary adjustments.

P. Geetha Receives Inaugural K. Saraswathi Amma Award

In a significant recognition of feminist literature and studies, writer, critic, and feminist activist P. Geetha has been awarded the first K. Saraswathi Amma Award. This prestigious accolade, instituted by WINGS (Women’s Integration and Growth Through Sports) Kerala, marks a pivotal moment in the acknowledgment of feminist contributions to literature and social discourse.

The Award-Winning Work

P. Geetha’s groundbreaking work “Aan Thachukal” (male creations), an analysis of M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s scripts, earned her this distinguished award. The book exemplifies the critical examination of gender representations in literature, a theme that resonates deeply with the award’s namesake, K. Saraswathi Amma.

A Tribute to K. Saraswathi Amma

Pioneer of Feminist Literature

K. Saraswathi Amma, the inspiration behind this award, was a trailblazer in feminist writing. Her contributions include:

A dozen volumes of short stories
A novel
A play
A collection of essays

Saraswathi Amma began her literary journey in 1938 with her first published short story. Her work on gender equality was revolutionary, especially considering the societal norms of her time.

Challenging Patriarchal Norms

Despite her significant contributions, Saraswathi Amma faced considerable challenges:

Labeled as a “men hater” by her contemporaries
Struggled to find writers willing to write prologues for her works
Experienced isolation in the male-dominated literary world

The Award Ceremony: A Celebration of Feminist Thought

The award ceremony, held on a Saturday, was more than just a presentation. It was a celebration of feminist thought and a recognition of the challenges faced by women writers.

Keynote Address by Sarah Joseph

Writer and social activist Sarah Joseph, while presenting the award, highlighted the poetic justice of the moment:

Drew parallels between Saraswathi Amma’s experiences and P. Geetha’s challenges
Emphasized society’s historical intolerance towards female genius
Praised Saraswathi Amma for addressing gender equality before it became a familiar concept in Kerala society

WINGS’ Vision

N.A. Vinaya, founder of WINGS, explained the organization’s motivation for instituting the award:

To honor Saraswathi Amma’s bold stand against patriarchal norms
To promote the objective of making women bold and independent

P. Geetha: Carrying the Torch of Feminist Literature

In her acceptance speech, P. Geetha shed light on the continued challenges faced by feminist literature:

Noted the editing and deletion of some of Saraswathi Amma’s more provocative works in posthumous publications
Highlighted the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition in the literary world

The Legacy Continues: A Theatrical Tribute

The award ceremony also featured a play based on Saraswathi Amma’s works, performed by Sreeja Arangottukara and C.M. Narayanan. This performance served as a vivid reminder of the enduring relevance of Saraswathi Amma’s writings.

Reflections on Feminist Literature and Society

The K. Saraswathi Amma Award and its inaugural recipient, P. Geetha, represent more than just literary recognition. They symbolize the ongoing struggle and progress in feminist thought and gender equality.

First Central Jail in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a diverse state in India known for its unique culture and traditions. It is the fourth largest state in the country, covering an area of 240,928 square kilometers. Over the years, efforts have been made to control crime in the state, including the construction of several jails. Among these, there is a notable first central jail in Uttar Pradesh. This article explores its history and significance.

Total Number of Jails in Uttar Pradesh

Before diving into the specifics of the first central jail, it’s important to understand the overall jail system in Uttar Pradesh. The state has a total of 73 jails, ranging from small to large facilities where criminals are held. These jails are scattered across different districts, serving as correctional facilities for various types of offenders.

Central Jails in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has a total of 8 central jails. These jails are located in seven districts: Agra, Bareilly, Fatehgarh, Naini, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Etawah. Notably, Bareilly district has two central jails, while each of the other districts has one central jail.

District-wise Jail Distribution

In addition to central jails, there are 62 district jails across Uttar Pradesh. This distribution allows for the effective management and rehabilitation of criminals within the state. Different districts have their own jails where local offenders are housed.

The First Central Jail in Uttar Pradesh

The first central jail in Uttar Pradesh is the Agra Jail. Established during the British era in 1884, this jail holds historical significance. It was the first facility of its kind in the state, marking the beginning of a more structured approach to handling crime and punishment.

Agra Central Jail and Carpet Weaving

Agra Central Jail is not just a prison; it is also known for its skilled weavers. Since before India’s independence, this jail has been a center for high-quality carpet weaving. In fact, in 1877, a carpet made here was gifted to Queen Victoria. The jail continues to be recognized for its exceptional carpet weaving craftsmanship.

India Hosts 46th UNESCO World Heritage Committee Session

In a landmark event for India’s cultural diplomacy, the nation is set to host the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee from July 21-31, 2024. This prestigious gathering will take place at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, bringing together delegates from around the world to discuss and decide on matters of global cultural significance.

A Global Convergence of Cultural Minds

The event is expected to draw an impressive crowd of over 2,500 delegates from 195 countries. These attendees will represent a diverse array of backgrounds and expertise, including:

State Parties to the World Heritage Convention
Advisory bodies
Senior diplomats
Heritage experts
Scholars and researchers

This convergence of minds promises to foster rich discussions and collaborations in the field of cultural preservation and recognition.

Venue and Inauguration

The choice of Bharat Mandapam as the venue underscores India’s commitment to showcasing its modern infrastructure while celebrating its rich cultural heritage. Sources indicate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to inaugurate the event on July 21, highlighting the national importance accorded to this international gathering.

The World Heritage Committee: Guardians of Global Culture

The World Heritage Committee plays a crucial role in safeguarding humanity’s most precious cultural and natural sites. Key facts about the committee include:

Comprises representatives from 21 States Parties to the World Heritage Convention
Elected by the General Assembly of UNESCO
Current members include diverse nations such as Argentina, Belgium, India, Japan, Kenya, and Ukraine
Responsible for implementing the World Heritage Convention
Decides on inscriptions to the World Heritage List
Allocates financial assistance from the World Heritage Fund

Historical Context

The committee’s roots trace back to the UNESCO General Conference of November 16, 1972, when the convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage was adopted. The Rules of Procedure were last updated at the 39th session in Bonn, Germany, in 2015.

India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

As the host nation, India brings a rich heritage to the table, boasting 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Notable among these is Santiniketan, established by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, which became India’s 41st World Heritage Site in September 2023.

Agenda and Expectations

While the full agenda is yet to be released, the session is expected to cover several key areas:

Review of Existing Sites: Assessing the state of conservation of current World Heritage Sites.
New Nominations: Considering new sites for inscription on the World Heritage List.
Funding Allocations: Deciding on financial assistance for conservation projects.
Policy Discussions: Addressing challenges and opportunities in heritage preservation.

Global Significance

The 46th session holds particular importance in the post-pandemic world, where cultural heritage faces new challenges and opportunities. Topics likely to be discussed include:

Impact of climate change on heritage sites
Digital preservation and virtual access to cultural heritage
Sustainable tourism at World Heritage Sites
Involving local communities in heritage preservation

India’s Role and Opportunities

Hosting this prestigious event offers India several opportunities:

Showcase Indian Heritage: Highlight India’s rich cultural and natural heritage on a global stage.
Diplomatic Soft Power: Strengthen India’s position as a leader in cultural diplomacy.
Tourism Boost: Increased global attention may lead to a surge in heritage tourism.
Knowledge Exchange: Learn from global best practices in heritage conservation.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

UNESCO Director-General: Audrey Azoulay;
UNESCO Founded: 16 November 1945, London, United Kingdom;
UNESCO Headquarters: Paris, France.