Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics

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Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics

Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally

China’s Liu Yukun won a gold medal, helping China stay at the top of the medal table. France is in second place, and Japan is in third. This is the 33rd Summer Olympics. It started on Friday and will end on August 11. The Paris Olympics has 32 sports. These include 28 main sports, plus some newer ones like breakdancing, skateboarding, surfing, and sports climbing. India won its third medal in the Paris 2024 Olympics. Swapnil Kusale got a bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event. This happened in Chateauroux on Thursday.

Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally (Full List)

China leads with the most gold medals (11), but the United States has the highest total medal count (31). The top 5 countries by gold medals are China, France, Japan, Australia, and the United States.

Rank	Country	Gold	Silver	Bronze	Total
1	China	11	7	3	21
2	France	8	10	8	26
3	Japan	8	3	4	15
4	Australia	7	6	4	17
5	United States of America	6	13	12	31
6	Great Britain	6	7	7	20
7	South Korea	6	3	3	12
8	Italy	3	6	4	13
9	Canada	2	2	3	7
10	Germany	2	2	2	6
11	Netherlands	2	2	1	5
11	New Zealand	2	2	1	5
13	Romania	2	1	1	4
14	Hong Kong	2	0	2	4
15	Sweden	1	1	2	4
16	Georgia	1	1	0	2
17	Belgium	1	0	2	3
17	Ireland	1	0	2	3
17	Kazakhstan	1	0	2	3
17	South Africa	1	0	2	3
21	Croatia	1	0	1	2
21	Guatemala	1	0	1	2
23	Argentina	1	0	0	1
23	Azerbaijan	1	0	0	1
23	Ecuador	1	0	0	1
23	Serbia	1	0	0	1
23	Slovenia	1	0	0	1
23	Uzbekistan	1	0	0	1
29	Brazil	0	2	3	5
30	Hungary	0	2	1	3
31	North Korea	0	2	0	2
32	Poland	0	1	2	3
32	Spain	0	1	2	3
34	Kosovo	0	1	1	2
34	Mexico	0	1	1	2
34	Switzerland	0	1	1	2
34	Turkey	0	1	1	2
34	Ukraine	0	1	1	2
39	Fiji	0	1	0	1
39	Mongolia	0	1	0	1
39	Tunisia	0	1	0	1
42	India	0	0	3	3
43	Moldova	0	0	2	2
44	Austria	0	0	1	1
44	Egypt	0	0	1	1
44	Greece	0	0	1	1
44	Slovakia	0	0	1	1
44	Tajikistan	0	0	1	1

Updated 01-08-2024

How many Cricket Players are retained in IPL 2025?

The excitement for IPL 2025 is building as the 10 franchises reveal their player retentions ahead of the upcoming auction. With a total of 46 players retained, the franchises have already invested a whopping ₹558.5 crore in securing key players to strengthen their squads. Each team has carefully chosen which players to retain, balancing experience, skill, and budget constraints, while leaving room for new additions in the auction. Here’s a complete breakdown of the retained players, the costs associated, and each team’s remaining budget, as they prepare to compete for the coveted IPL trophy.

IPL 2025 Player Retentions and Auction Details

The IPL 2025 Player Retentions and Auction Details outline the teams, players they have retained, and the related financial aspects for the upcoming season. Here’s a breakdown of the information for each team:

Team	Retained Players	Retention Cost (₹ Crore)	Players Retained	Overseas Players Retained	Slots Available	Overseas Slots	Auction Purse (₹ Crore)
Mumbai Indians	Jasprit Bumrah (₹18), Suryakumar Yadav (₹16.35), Hardik Pandya (₹16.35), Rohit Sharma (₹16.30), Tilak Varma (₹8)	₹75.00	5	0	20	8	₹45.00
Chennai Super Kings	Ruturaj Gaikwad (₹18), Ravindra Jadeja (₹18), Matheesha Pathirana (₹13), Shivam Dube (₹12), MS Dhoni (₹4)	₹65.00	5	1	20	7	₹55.00
Royal Challengers Bangalore	Virat Kohli (₹21), Rajat Patidar (₹11), Yash Dayal (₹5)	₹37.00	3	0	22	8	₹83.00
Sunrisers Hyderabad	Heinrich Klaasen (₹23), Pat Cummins (₹18), Abhishek Sharma (₹14), Travis Head (₹14), Nitish Kumar Reddy (₹6)	₹75.00	5	3	20	5	₹45.00
Delhi Capitals	Axar Patel (₹16.50), Kuldeep Yadav (₹13.25), Tristan Stubbs (₹10), Abhishek Porel (₹4)	₹43.75	4	1	21	7	₹73.00
Lucknow Super Giants	Nicholas Pooran (₹21), Ravi Bishnoi (₹11), Mayank Yadav (₹11), Mohsin Khan (₹4), Ayush Badoni (₹4)	₹51.00	5	1	20	7	₹69.00
Gujarat Titans	Rashid Khan (₹18), Shubman Gill (₹16.50), Sai Sudharsan (₹8.50), Rahul Tewatia (₹4), Shahrukh Khan (₹4)	₹51.00	5	1	20	7	₹69.00
Punjab Kings	Shashank Singh (₹5.5), Prabhsimran Singh (₹4)	₹9.50	2	0	23	8	₹110.50
Rajasthan Royals	Sanju Samson (₹18), Yashasvi Jaiswal (₹18), Riyan Parag (₹14), Dhruv Jurel (₹14), Shimron Hetmyer (₹11), Sandeep Sharma (₹4)	₹79.00	6	1	19	7	₹41.00
Kolkata Knight Riders	No retained players listed	N/A	N/A	N/A	19	6	N/A

Key Player Retention and Auction Rules

The IPL 2025 player retention and auction system has specific rules and guidelines to ensure a balanced and competitive league. Here’s a breakdown of the key rules:

Category	Details
Maximum Players per Team	25 players per team
Maximum Overseas Players	8 overseas players per team
Retention Limit	Each team can retain up to 6 players, including a maximum of 5 capped players and 2 uncapped players
Uncapped Player Value	₹4 crore for each uncapped player retained from the IPL 2024 squads
Salary Cap for Retention	₹120 crore total salary cap for each team
Retention Salary Slabs	Retained Player 1: ₹18 crore, Retained Player 2: ₹14 crore, Retained Player 3: ₹11 crore, Retained Player 4: ₹18 crore, Retained Player 5: ₹14 crore
Auction Purse	The amount remaining after retention is deducted from the ₹120 crore cap

States and Capitals of India, List of 28 States and 8 UT’s 2024

India is a vast country in South Asia, the 7th largest by land area. It is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital city. The states and union territories are further subdivided into districts. New Delhi, located in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, serves as the administrative, political, and cultural capital of India.

The states and capitals of India form a vibrant tapestry, reflecting the nation’s diversity in culture, traditions, and innovation. Exploring these regions is a journey of discovery, bridging the ancient and the modern, the traditional and the contemporary, and showcasing India’s unity in diversity.

States and Capitals of India 2024

In 1956, India underwent a reorganization of its states based on linguistic demographics. Today, the nation comprises 28 states and 8 Union Territories, featuring around 400 cities. Among these, eight major metropolitan cities stand out: Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Pune. The Prime Minister has launched an initiative to create 100 smart cities across India, with Indore being honoured as the Smart City for four consecutive years. Explore the vibrant urban landscape of India and its commitment to modernization.

28 Indian States and Capitals, Name List

Total states in India of 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state adds to India’s cultural tapestry, enriching and energising the country’s identity. The 28 Indian States and their capitals are as follows.

S.NO	State	Capital	CM	Governor
1	Andhra Pradesh	Amaravati	Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu	S. Abdul Nazer
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Itanagar	Pema Khandu	Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
3	Assam	Dispur	Himanta Biswa Sarma	Gulab Chand Kataria
4	Bihar	Patna	Nitish Kumar	Rajendra Arlekar
5	Chhattisgarh	Raipur	Vishnu Deo Sai	Biswabhusan Harichandan
6	Goa	Panaji	Pramod Sawant	P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7	Gujarat	Gandhinagar	Bhupendra Patel	Acharya Dev Vrat
8	Haryana	Chandigarh	Nayab Singh Saini	Bandaru Dattatraya
9	Himachal Pradesh	Shimla	Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu	Shiv Pratap Shukla
10	Jharkhand	Ranchi	Hemant Soren	C. P. Radhakrishnan
11	Karnataka	Bengaluru	Siddaramaiah	Thaawarchand Gehlot
12	Kerala	Thiruvananthapuram	Pinarayi Vijayan	Arif Mohammed Khan
13	Madhya Pradesh	Bhopal	Mohan Yadav	Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14	Maharashtra	Mumbai	Eknath Shinde	Ramesh Bais
15	Manipur	Imphal	N. Biren Singh	Anusuiya Uikey
16	Meghalaya	Shillong	Conrad Kongkal Sangma	Phagu Chauhan
17	Mizoram	Aizawl	Lalduhoma	Kambhampati Haribabu
18	Nagaland	Kohima	Neiphiu Rio	La. Ganesan
19	Odisha	Bhubaneswar	Naveen Patnaik	Raghubar Das
20	Punjab	Chandigarh	Bhagwant Singh Mann	Banwarilal Purohit
21	Rajasthan	Jaipur	Bhajan Lal Sharma	Kalraj Mishra
22	Sikkim	Gangtok	PS Golay	Lakshman Acharya
23	Tamil Nadu	Chennai	M. K. Stalin	R. N. Ravi
24	Telangana	Hyderabad	Anumula Revanth Reddy	C. P. Radhakrishnan
25	Tripura	Agartala	Dr. Manik Saha	N. Indrasena Reddy
26	Uttar Pradesh	Lucknow	Yogi Aditya Nath	Anandiben Patel
27	Uttarakhand	Dehradun	Pushkar Singh Dhami	Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28	West Bengal	Kolkata	Mamata Banerjee	Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Union Territories and Capitals List

The capital of India is New Delhi, which is a union territory. The other union territories are Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. The states and union territories of India are home to a diverse range of cultures, languages, and religions. They are also home to a wide variety of geographical features, from the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas to the tropical beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

S.NO	Union Territories	Capital	CM	Lt. Governor
1	Andaman and Nicobar Island	Port Blair	NA	D K Joshi
2	Chandigarh	Chandigarh	NA	Banwarilal Purohit
3	Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	Daman	NA	Praful Patel
4	Delhi	Delhi	Arvind Kejriwal	Vinai Kumar Saxena
5	Ladakh	NA	NA	B. D. Mishra
6	Lakshadweep	Kavaratti	NA	Praful Patel
7	Jammu and Kashmir	NA	Omar Abdullah	Manoj Sinha
8	Puducherry	Pondicherry	N. Rangaswamy	C. P. Radhakrishnan

Indian States and their Languages

India is a country with a rich and diverse linguistic heritage. There are over 121 languages spoken in India, and each state has its unique linguistic landscape. The Indian Constitution recognizes 22 languages as “scheduled languages,” which are given special status in government and education.

S. No.	States	Language
1	Andhra Pradesh	Telugu and Urdu
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi
3	Assam	Assamese
4	Bihar	Hindi
5	Chhattisgarh	Hindi
6	Goa	Marathi Konkani
7	Gujarat	Gujarati
8	Haryana	Hindi
9	Himachal Pradesh	Hindi and Pahari
10	Jharkhand	Hindi
11	Karnataka	Kannada
12	Kerala	Malayalam
13	Madhya Pradesh	Hindi
14	Maharashtra	Marathi
15	Manipur	Manipuri
16	Meghalaya	Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo
17	Mizoram	Mizo and English
18	Nagaland	Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha
19	Odisha	Oriya
20	Punjab	Punjabi
21	Rajasthan	Rajasthani and Hindi
22	Sikkim	Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu
23	Tamil Nadu	Tamil
24	Telangana	Telugu
25	Tripura	Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak
26	Uttar Pradesh	Hindi
27	Uttarakhand	Hindi
28	West Bengal	Bengali

Which States Launched Double-Decker Electric Buses?

As cities work to reduce pollution and ease traffic, using electric vehicles like buses is becoming more important. Several Indian states are now leading the way by starting double-decker electric bus services, a big step towards eco-friendly public transportation. These buses not only reduce pollution but also carry more passengers, helping make public transport both efficient and sustainable. The launch of double-decker electric buses by states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka sets an inspiring example for other regions. By investing in electric public transport, these states are not only leading in innovation but are also making strides towards a cleaner and greener India. The success of these programs may soon inspire other cities to follow suit, moving India closer to a sustainable urban transport ecosystem.

Uttar Pradesh: First Double-Decker Electric Bus in Lucknow

The state of Uttar Pradesh recently introduced its first double-decker electric bus in Lucknow. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the service as part of the Aakanksha Haat program at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan. Aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and contributing to environmental conservation, this initiative underscores Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to eco-friendly urban transport.

Key Features:

Passenger Capacity: 65 passengers
Discounts for Women: 50% ticket discount and free travel for women on heritage routes on Saturdays.
Safety Measures: Five CCTV cameras, panic buttons, and real-time tracking systems.
Future Route Plans: Scheduled to operate on the Kamta Crossing–Airport route through Shaheed Path for common passengers.

Uttar Pradesh’s venture into electric double-decker buses is expected to be a model for sustainable public transport solutions in India.

Maharashtra: Double-Decker Electric Buses in Mumbai

Maharashtra was among the first states to introduce double-decker electric buses. Mumbai’s transport authority launched these buses to manage the high demand for public transport while also addressing pollution levels in the city.

Key Features:

Environmental Impact: Reduced emissions, helping to curb the city’s air pollution.
Capacity: Similar passenger capacity, making it efficient for daily commuters.
Routes: The buses are deployed on major routes, connecting popular locations to provide accessible travel for more passengers.

This move aligns with Maharashtra’s broader green transport initiatives, supporting the state’s commitment to cleaner air and sustainable urban mobility.

Karnataka: Bengaluru’s Initiative with Double-Decker Electric Buses

In Karnataka, the state’s capital, Bengaluru, has also introduced double-decker electric buses. The initiative is part of a larger plan to modernize the city’s transport system and reduce traffic congestion in one of India’s busiest IT hubs.

Key Features:

Congestion Reduction: Double-decker buses help maximize commuter capacity on major routes.
Eco-Friendly Transport: Bengaluru aims to reduce its carbon footprint with a fleet of electric buses.
Smart City Integration: Features such as digital ticketing and tracking make it convenient for users and enhance public safety.

By implementing double-decker electric buses, Karnataka aims to make Bengaluru’s transportation system more efficient and eco-friendly, complementing its vision of becoming a smart city.

Russia’s Pantsir System A Strategic Addition to India’s Defence Arsenal

India and Russia have reached a significant agreement to jointly manufacture the Pantsir air defence missile-gun system, marking a major step in supporting India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector. The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India’s Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) and Russia’s Rosoboronexport (ROE).

Introduction

India and Russia have signed a major agreement to jointly manufacture the Pantsir air defence missile-gun system.
Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) and Russia’s Rosoboronexport (ROE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This collaboration supports India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector.

Key Points of the Agreement

Signatories

BDL’s CMD Cmde A. Madhavarao (Retd) and Mr. Kovalenko German from ROE.

Context

Agreement signed on the sidelines of the 5th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission (IRIGC) Subgroup meeting in Goa.

Purpose

To manufacture the Pantsir air defence missile-gun system in India under the ‘Make in India’ programme.

Strategic Importance

Strengthens bilateral defence ties and enhances India’s defence capabilities.

Joint Manufacturing

Focus on producing spare parts, components, and aggregates for Russian-origin defence equipment.

Details of the Pantsir Air Defence System

Components

A missile launcher, radar truck, and command post.

Designed to Provide

Point air defence against aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, precision munitions, and cruise missiles.

Key Features

Missile Range: Up to 20 km with a maximum altitude of 15 km.
Speed: Missiles reach speeds up to 1,300 m/s.
Guns: Two 30mm auto-cannons with a range of 4 km for intercepting low-altitude threats like drones.

Current Use

Critical for protecting Russian President Putin against drone attacks during the Russia-Ukraine war.

International Demand

Used by Algeria, UAE, Iraq, Syria, and other countries.

Impact on India-Russia Defence Cooperation

Long-standing Ties

Defence cooperation with Russia has been integral since the Cold War, with over 60-70% of India’s military equipment of Russian origin.

Key Projects

S-400 System: 5 squadrons ordered; 3 delivered, remaining 2 expected by 2026.
Guided Missile Warships: First of two ships expected by the end of November.
AK-203 Rifles & BrahMos Missiles: Joint production in India.
T-90 Tanks and Su-30 MKI: Licensed production.

Future Outlook

The Pantsir agreement strengthens India’s autonomy in defence production and enhances self-reliance in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.

Russia-India Defence Ties

The foundation of India’s military equipment and technology transfer.
Continued access to Russian technology reinforces India’s strategic autonomy.
Strengthens defence self-reliance through partnerships like the Pantsir deal.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India and Russia to jointly manufacture the Pantsir air defence missile-gun system.
Signatories	Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) and Rosoboronexport (ROE).
Event Context	MoU signed during the 5th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission (IRIGC) Subgroup meeting in Goa.
Purpose	To manufacture the Pantsir system under India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Key Features of Pantsir System	– Components: Missile launcher, radar truck, and command post. – Missile Range: Up to 20 km, altitudes of up to 15 km. – Speed: Missiles can intercept fast-moving targets at speeds of 1,300 m/s. – Guns: 30mm auto-cannons effective against low-altitude threats like drones.
Strategic Importance	Enhances India’s defence self-reliance and strengthens India-Russia defence ties.
Historical Context	India and Russia have long-standing defence cooperation; 60-70% of India’s military equipment is of Russian origin.
Joint Projects with Russia	– S-400 missile system, T-90 tanks, Su-30 MKI, AK-203 rifles, BrahMos missiles. – Licensed production of military hardware and technology.

IIT Madras, ISRO Collaborate on Spacecraft Thermal Research Centre

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is teaming up with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to create a Centre of Excellence focused on research in ‘Fluid and Thermal Sciences’. ISRO will provide seed funding of Rs 1.84 Crore to establish this center, which aims to advance research in these critical areas for space exploration.

Overview

Collaboration: IIT Madras and ISRO have partnered to establish a Centre of Excellence for research in ‘Fluid and Thermal Sciences’.
Seed Funding: ISRO will provide Rs 1.84 Crore as seed funding to set up the Centre.
Date of MoU Signing: The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 11th November 2024.

Key Details of the Collaboration

Centre’s Focus

Thermal Management Research Hub : The Centre will be dedicated to spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal management challenges.
Industry-Academia Interface : The Centre will enhance collaboration between ISRO scientists and IIT Madras faculty, promoting innovation.

Initial Funding

Seed Funding : Rs 1.84 Crore will be allocated for infrastructure, equipment, consumables, maintenance, and future projects.
Additional Funding : Ongoing funding for consumables, maintenance, and upcoming research projects in fluid-thermal sciences.

Research Areas

Spacecraft Thermal Management : Addressing challenges in managing thermal conditions for spacecraft.
Combustion Instability in Hybrid Rockets : Researching combustion dynamics for hybrid rocket technologies.
Cryo-tank Thermodynamics : Studying the behavior of cryogenic tanks, important for space missions.

Industry-Academia Collaboration

The Centre will facilitate joint efforts between ISRO and IIT Madras faculty and students, fostering innovation in fluid and thermal sciences.

Key Outcomes Expected

Thermal Management Solutions: Solutions to complex thermal engineering problems in spacecraft and launch vehicles.
Advanced Research: Exploration of advanced topics like combustion instability, spacecraft thermal management, and cryogenic tank studies.
Contribution to Space Program: The research will contribute to India’s self-reliance in space technologies.

Background

Historical Collaboration: The collaboration between ISRO and IIT Madras dates back to 1985 with the establishment of the ‘ISRO-IIT M Space Technology Cell’.
Centre’s Importance: The Centre will support ISRO’s R&D activities, focusing on spacecraft thermal management, rocket combustion, and cryogenic technology studies.

Key Stakeholders

IIT Madras: Prof. Manu Santhanam (Dean, Industrial Consultancy and Sponsored Research), Prof. Arvind Pattamatta (Project Coordinator, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering).
ISRO: Mr. Victor Joseph T (Director, Directorate of Technology Development & Innovation).

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	IIT Madras partners with ISRO to establish a Centre of Excellence for Fluid and Thermal Sciences.
Seed Funding	Rs 1.84 Crore provided by ISRO for setting up the Centre and future projects.
MoU Signing	Signed on 11th November 2024 by IIT Madras and ISRO officials
Focus Areas	– Spacecraft thermal management – Combustion instability in hybrid rockets – Cryo-tank thermodynamics
Key Outcomes	– Advanced thermal management solutions for spacecraft and launch vehicles – Research in combustion, cryo-tank thermodynamics – Industry-academia collaboration
Research Areas	– Spacecraft thermal management – Combustion instability – Cryogenic tank studies
Historical Context	Collaboration started in 1985 with the ‘ISRO-IIT M Space Technology Cell’
Centre’s Role	– Acts as a nodal research centre for ISRO’s thermal management research. – Promotes self-reliance in space technologies.

Supreme Court Overturns 1967 Ruling on AMU’s Minority Status

In a historic 4-3 decision on November 8, 2024, the Supreme Court overturned its 1967 ruling in the Azeez Basha case, which had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) minority institution status. This landmark judgment paves the way for AMU’s minority status to be reassessed based on its historical, administrative, and founding context, under the protective framework of Article 30 of the Indian Constitution. While AMU’s status remains undecided, the verdict has crucial implications for how educational institutions are recognized under constitutional provisions.

Background of the Case

In 1967, the Supreme Court’s Azeez Basha judgment ruled that AMU was not established or administered by a Muslim minority community, thereby disqualifying it from claiming minority status under Article 30(1). Despite subsequent legislative amendments, including the 1981 recognition of AMU’s Muslim origins, the issue remained contentious, culminating in this fresh review by a seven-judge bench.

Core of the Judgment

The majority opinion, authored by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, emphasized that statutory recognition does not inherently erase an institution’s minority status. This refined interpretation of Article 30(1) asserts that institutions created by minority communities retain their minority character, even if recognized through legislation. The court stressed that the institution’s history, intent of its founders, and its continued administration in alignment with minority community interests must be assessed to determine minority status.

The Three-Part Test for Minority Status

The majority outlined a three-step framework for evaluating AMU’s minority status:

Origins: Clear evidence that AMU’s founding was tied to the Muslim community.

Purpose: Demonstrating that AMU primarily serves the interests of the Muslim community.

Administrative Structure: Assessing the governance structure and its alignment with the community’s interests.

Significance for AMU and Other Institutions

The court’s ruling has immediate implications for AMU, as it may now reassess its minority status based on these criteria. If declared a minority institution, AMU would be exempt from certain reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other groups. The decision also has broader implications for institutions across India, particularly those established before the Constitution’s adoption, as it opens up new avenues for claiming minority status.

Dissenting Opinions

Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta, and Satish Chandra Sharma dissented, expressing concerns over procedural issues and questioning the legitimacy of AMU’s minority claim. They warned that such a ruling could distort historical facts and undermine judicial credibility.

Impact on Minority Rights Jurisprudence

This decision has not only revisited AMU’s status but also set a new precedent in minority rights jurisprudence in India. The judgment reinforces the need for a nuanced understanding of constitutional protections for minority institutions, balancing autonomy with non-discrimination.

key points about Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)

Topic	Key Points
Foundation	Founded in 1875 as Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
Location	Located in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Status	Statutory University, under the Aligarh Muslim University Act, 1920.
Minority Status	AMU’s minority status has been contested, with the Supreme Court overturning its 1967 decision in 2024, requiring a fresh assessment.
Historical Importance	Played a key role in the socio-political and educational upliftment of Muslims in India.
Academics	Offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines.
Campus	Spread across 1,100 acres with modern infrastructure, research centers, and hostels.
Administrative Structure	Led by a Vice Chancellor, AMU is governed by a Court and a Senate.
Significant Alumni	Includes notable personalities like Dr. Zakir Hussain (former President of India), and many prominent politicians, scientists, and academicians.
Role in Indian Education	Known for contributing significantly to higher education, especially in fields like engineering, law, and humanities.
Legal Status	Initially, its minority status was denied in the 1967 Azeez Basha case, but the 2024 SC verdict allowed for reassessment.
Contribution to Society	Strong emphasis on social justice, intellectual development, and empowerment of minority communities.

Summery of the News

Topic	Key Points
Why in News	The Supreme Court ruled on the minority status of AMU, overruled the 1967 Azeez Basha case, allowing a reassessment of AMU’s minority status.
Supreme Court Decision	A 4-3 verdict allowed reconsideration of AMU’s minority status based on its historical origins, purpose, and administration.
Article 30(1) of Constitution	Grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions.
AMU Founding History	AMU was founded by the Muslim community in 1875 as a Muslim minority institution.
Court’s Test for Minority Status	AMU’s minority status will be evaluated on three criteria: origins, purpose, and administration.
Dissenting Opinion	Justice Datta argued that AMU’s minority claim was based on outdated history and should be reconsidered.
State Aid and Minority Status	Receiving state aid does not negate AMU’s minority status, as clarified by the majority ruling.
AMU’s Legal Status	AMU is considered a statutory body, and its status as a minority institution must be reassessed.
Article 15	Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
Article 21	Provides the right to life and personal liberty, relevant in cases involving educational access.
Justice in AMU Case	The case involved a 4-3 decision, indicating a close interpretation of the law.
CM and Capital	Not applicable to this case as it is a legal decision.

ADB Approves $200 Million Loan for Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to enhance the urban infrastructure and climate resilience of Uttarakhand under the Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project. This initiative aligns with both the Government of India’s urban development agenda and the state’s efforts to provide sustainable and livable urban spaces. The project will upgrade essential urban services, including water supply, sanitation, drainage, flood management, and urban mobility, in five cities of Uttarakhand—Haldwani, Champawat, Kichha, Kotdwar, and Vikasnagar.

Key Components of the Project

Urban Infrastructure in Haldwani

The project will develop 16 km of climate-resilient roads, introduce an intelligent traffic management system, deploy compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, and pilot electric buses. Additionally, 36 km of stormwater and roadside drains will be constructed to improve flood management, with an early warning system in place for disaster resilience.

Water Supply and Sanitation in Four Cities

In Champawat, Kichha, Kotdwar, and Vikasnagar, the project will focus on increasing water service coverage to 100%. This will involve the construction of 1,024 km of climate-resilient pipelines, smart water meters, 26 tubewells, new reservoirs, and a water treatment plant with a capacity of 3.5 million liters per day. Vikasnagar will also benefit from improved sanitation through the setup of sewage treatment facilities, helping around 2,000 households.

Gender and Capacity Building Initiatives

The project will empower women through initiatives like livelihood skills training for bus driving, bus ticketing, and managing electric charging stations. Women will also be involved in monitoring water supply systems, and the project will build their capacity to operate and manage water supply and sanitation services.

Project Financing and Impact

The total project cost is $465.9 million, co-financed by the European Investment Bank ($191 million), ADB ($200 million), and the Uttarakhand Government ($74.9 million). By focusing on climate-resilient infrastructure, the project aims to improve the quality of life for Uttarakhand’s residents while enhancing the state’s capacity to manage urban services and adapt to climate-related challenges.

About Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Established: 1966

Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Manila, Philippines

Member Countries: 69

Focus Area: Primarily serves the Asia-Pacific region

Purpose: Promotes social and economic development through loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments

Main Goals: Poverty reduction, sustainable development, regional cooperation, and financial integration

Operational Areas: Infrastructure, education, environment, health, agriculture, finance, and urban development

Funding: Provides financial products including loans, grants, and technical services to member countries.

Summery of the News

Why in News	Key Points
Why in News	ADB approves $200 million loan for Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project. Aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure and climate resilience in 5 cities of Uttarakhand.
Project Cost	Total cost: $465.9 million; ADB contribution: $200 million; European Investment Bank contribution: $191 million; State Government contribution: $74.9 million.
Cities Targeted	Haldwani, Champawat, Kichha, Kotdwar, Vikasnagar.
Key Infrastructure	Development of 16 km of climate-resilient roads, intelligent traffic management system, CNG buses, stormwater and roadside drains (36 km).
Water Supply	Construction of 1,024 km of climate-resilient pipelines, 26 tubewells, new reservoirs, and a 3.5 million-litre per day water treatment plant.
Sanitation	Sewage treatment facilities in Vikasnagar for 2,000 households.
Gender Initiatives	Women’s livelihood skills training in bus driving, ticketing, and electric charging station management. Empowering women in managing water supply and sanitation.
Disaster Resilience	Flood management systems, early warning system for disaster preparedness.
Financing Institutions	ADB and European Investment Bank co-financing the project.
Uttarakhand Government	The project is implemented by the Government of Uttarakhand, under the leadership of the CM (currently Pushkar Singh Dhami), and aims to enhance urban services and sustainability.
Urban Development Goals	Aligned with the Government of India’s urban development agenda, focusing on improving livability and climate resilience.

Which Country is Known as the Rainbow Country?

The country that is often called the “Rainbow Country” is South Africa. This name comes from its diverse culture, people, and landscapes. South Africa is home to many different ethnic groups, languages, and traditions, which make it unique in the world.

Which Country is Known as the Rainbow Country?

South Africa is often called the “Rainbow Nation” because it has many different cultures, languages, and religions living together. This name was given by Archbishop Desmond Tutu in the early 1990s when South Africa was moving away from apartheid and becoming a democratic country. Let’s explore why South Africa is so special.

Why is South Africa Called the Rainbow Country?

The term “Rainbow Nation” reflects the country’s incredible diversity. South Africa has people from various ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages, and religions. This makes the country unique, much like a rainbow with its many colors coming together harmoniously.

Languages in South Africa, the Rainbow Country

South Africa has 11 official languages, including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa. In addition to these, there are many other languages spoken by different groups across the country. This rich linguistic diversity is a big part of South Africa’s cultural identity.

Popular Sports in South Africa

Sports are very important in South Africa, and the country is known for excelling in many of them. Rugby, cricket, golf, and soccer are some of the most popular sports. In 2010, South Africa made history by becoming the first African country to host the FIFA World Cup.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa

South Africa is tied with Ethiopia for the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Africa. These sites are recognized for their cultural and natural significance. Examples include the Cradle of Humankind, Robben Island, and the famous Table Mountain.

India’s Historic Rise: Ranked 6th Globally in WIPO Patent Filings 2023

India has made remarkable progress in intellectual property (IP) filings, securing 6th place globally for the first time in 2023, according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) Global Patent Filing Report. This achievement reflects a robust growth of 15.7% in patent filings, marking the fifth consecutive year of double-digit growth in India. With more than 64,480 patents filed in 2023, India’s contributions are now among the top 10 nations globally across major IP rights, including patents, trademarks, and industrial designs.

Key Highlights

Record Growth in India: India recorded 64,480 patent filings in 2023, reflecting a 15.7% year-over-year increase. This was the largest growth rate among the top 20 patent-filing countries.

Global Patent Filing Surge: Globally, over 35 lakh patents were filed, with China leading at 1.64 million, followed by the USA, Japan, South Korea, and Germany. India stands sixth, ahead of Germany, with a consistent rise in patent activity.

India’s Top 10 IP Ranking: For the first time, India is included in the top 10 countries for patent, industrial design, and trademark applications. These areas saw dramatic increases, with patent and design filings more than doubling since 2018 and trademark applications up by 60%.

Asia Dominates Global Patent Activity

Asia continues to dominate the global patent landscape, accounting for nearly 69% of global filings. The major contributors—China, Japan, South Korea, and India—led the global growth surge in 2023.

Intellectual Property Rights Explained

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) safeguard creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, and artistic works, which are legally protected to prevent unauthorized use. The primary forms of IP include patents (inventions), copyrights (artistic works), trademarks (company identifiers), industrial designs (aesthetic features of products), geographical indications (regional products with unique qualities), and trade secrets (confidential business information).

About WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organisation)

Establishment: Founded in 1967 as a UN agency.

Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.

Members: 197 countries.

Director General: Daren Tang.

Main Function: Promotes the protection of intellectual property (IP) rights globally, fostering innovation and creativity.

Summery of the News

Why in News	Key Points
India’s Global Patent Filing Rank in 2023	India ranked 6th in global patent filings for the first time in 2023.
Patent Filing Growth in India	India filed 64,480 patents in 2023, showing a 15.7% growth from 2022.
Global Patent Filing Total	Over 35 lakh patents were filed worldwide in 2023.
Top Countries in Patent Filings	1. China: 1.64 million patents, 2. USA: 518,364, 3. Japan: 414,413, 4. South Korea: 287,954, 5. Germany: 133,053, 6. India: 64,480.
Global Patent Filing Growth	Global patent filings increased by 15.7% in 2023, the 4th consecutive year of positive growth.
Asia’s Share in Global IP Filings	Asia accounted for 68.7% of global patent filings, 66.7% of trademark filings, and 69% of industrial design filings in 2023.
India’s Growth in IP Rights	India also ranked in the top 10 for industrial designs and trademarks.
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)	Includes patents, copyrights, trademarks, industrial designs, geographical indications, and trade secrets.
Types of IPR:	Patents: Exclusive rights for inventions. Copyright: Literary and artistic works. Trademarks: Company identifiers. Industrial Designs: Aesthetic features of products. Geographical Indications: Origin-based goods. Trade Secrets: Confidential business info.

Veteran Filmmaker Phillip Noyce Honored with Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award

Veteran Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce, renowned for his acclaimed works such as Clear and Present Danger, Salt, and Rabbit-Proof Fence, will be honored with the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The festival, which will be held in Goa from November 20-28, 2024, has Australia as its Country of Focus this year.

Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award

Philip Noyce (IFFI 2024)

Award

Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award to be presented at 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2024)

Recipient

Philip Noyce, acclaimed Australian director

Notable Works

Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, Salt, The Saint, The Bone Collector, Other iconic films.

Directorial Style & Impact

Known for creating suspenseful and culturally resonant films
Mastery in storytelling across diverse genres

Legacy

Philip Noyce’s work has had a lasting impact on both mainstream and critical cinema, shaping suspense and action genres while contributing to cultural conversations through his films.

Study Guide: 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024

Overview

Dates: 20th to 28th November 2024
Location: Goa
Organizers: Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG)
Theme: “Young Filmmakers” – The Future is Now

Focus on the role of emerging filmmakers in shaping India’s cinematic future.

Key Highlights of IFFI 2024

Opening Ceremony

Opening Film: Better Man by Michael Gracey (Asia premiere).
Country of Focus: Australia, with a special film package and MOU with Screen Australia & NFDC.

Global Participation

Over 1,676 submissions from 101 countries.
More than 180 films from 81 countries.
15 world premieres, 3 international premieres, 40 Asian premieres, and 106 Indian premieres.

Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award

Awarded to Philip Noyce, the Australian director known for films like Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, and Salt.

International Competition

15 films (12 international, 3 Indian) competing for Golden Peacock & INR 40 lakh.
Categories: Best Director, Best Actor (Male/Female), Special Jury Prize.
Best Feature Film Debut Director section: 5 international & 2 Indian films.
Jury Members: Ashutosh Gowariker (Chairperson), Anthony Chen, Elizabeth Karlsen, Fran Borgia, Jill Bilcock.

Indian Panorama

Showcasing 25 feature films and 20 non-feature films.
Opening Film: Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (Hindi) directed by Randeep Hooda.
Opening Non-Feature Film: Ghar Jaisa Kuch (Ladakhi).
New Award: Best Indian Debut Director with a cash prize of INR 5 lakh.

Women and Emerging Voices in Cinema

47 films by women directors.
66 films by young and debut filmmakers, celebrating diverse and underrepresented voices.

Special Sections

Rising Stars: Celebrating emerging directors.
Mission Life: Spotlight on eco-conscious cinema.
Australia: Country of Focus.
Treaty Country Package: Curated selections from the British Film Institute.

Restored Classics

Films restored by NFDC-NFAI under the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM).

Films to be screened,

Awara (1951) – Raj Kapoor
Devadasu (1953) – Akkineni Nageswara Rao
Hum Dono (1961) – Mohammed Rafi
Harmonium (1975) – Tapan Sinha

New Curated Sections

Best Web Series (OTT) Award: 46 entries, with INR 10 lakh as prize money.
Centenary Celebrations: Tributes to Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, Tapan Sinha, and Akkineni Nageswara Rao.
IFFIesta: Interactive experiences and cultural festivities including a Carnival Parade on 22nd November.

Creative Minds of Tomorrow (CMOT)

1,032 entries this year, almost double from 2023.
100 selected participants across 13 filmmaking crafts.
Focus on young filmmakers from film schools across India.

Film Bazaar 2024

South Asia’s largest film market, featuring 350+ film projects.
Includes pitching sessions, workshops, and collaborations on international film production and distribution.

Masterclasses and Industry Engagement

25+ masterclasses and panel discussions featuring luminaries such as AR Rahman, Shabana Azmi, Mani Ratnam, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Philip Noyce, and John Seale.
Focus on topics like sound design, acting in the digital age, and future of filmmaking.

Venue and Accessibility

6 additional theaters for screenings (including INOX Madgaon, INOX Ponda, and Z Square Samrat Ashok).
Picture Time inflatable theaters for screenings across Goa.
Accessibility Partner: Svayam, ensuring accessibility for people with reduced mobility, including audio descriptions and sign language interpretation.

Branding & Décor

Unified décor and branding for all festival venues in collaboration with NID, Ahmedabad.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award
Recipient	Philip Noyce, acclaimed Australian director
Festival	55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2024)
Notable Works	Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, Salt, The Saint, The Bone Collector, and more
Summary of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024
Dates	20th to 28th November 2024
Organizers	Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG)
Festival Director	Shekhar Kapur
Festival Theme	“Young Filmmakers” – Focus on emerging voices shaping the future of cinema
Opening Film	Better Man by Michael Gracey, Asia premiere, about Robbie Williams’ life
Country of Focus	Australia – with films, MOU with Screen Australia, and special showcases
Global Participation	1,676 submissions from 101 countries, over 180 international films from 81 countries, including world & Indian premieres
Indian Panorama	25 feature films & 20 non-feature films showcasing India’s diversity, including Swatantrya Veer Savarkar & Ghar Jaisa Kuch
Web Series Award	46 entries, prize of INR 10 lakh, certificates for the Best OTT Web Series
Film Bazaar	South Asia’s largest film market with 350+ projects, pitching sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities