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

Top-10 Indian States with the Lowest Unemployment Rate 2024

Top-10 Indian States with the Unemployment Rate 2024

Unemployment is a significant issue in India, impacting economic growth and social stability. As of 2024, several states have been grappling with high unemployment rates. This article explores the top 10 Indian states with the lowest unemployment rates, analyzing the factors contributing to this challenge and its implications for the local population.

Indian State with the Lowest Unemployment Rate 2024

Madhya Pradesh stands out as the Indian state with the lowest unemployment rate in 2024. The male unemployment rate is 2.8%, while the female unemployment rate is 2.1%, resulting in a total unemployment rate of 2.6%. This achievement can be attributed to the state’s focus on skill development programs, agricultural initiatives, and industrial growth, providing job opportunities for both men and women.

Top-10 Indian States with the Lowest Unemployment Rate 2024

Madhya Pradesh with the unemployment rate of 2.6%, stands as the Indian state with the lowest unemployment rate 2024, followed by Gujarat, Jharkhand and Delhi.

Here is the list of top-10 Indian states with the lowest unemployment rate 2024:

Top-10 Indian States with the Lowest Unemployment Rate 2024
Rank	States	Male Unemployed (%)	Female Unemployed (%)	Total Unemployed (%)
1.	Madhya Pradesh	2.8	2.1	2.6
2.	Gujarat	3.3	2.7	3.1
3.	Jharkhand	4.8	1.5	3.6
4.	Delhi	4.6	4.8	4.6
5.	Chhattisgarh	6.6	5.8	6.3
6.	Dadra & Nagar Haveli	7.8	3.7	6.6
7.	Tripura	6.8	6.7	6.8
8.	Sikkim	8.3	6.8	7.7
9.	West Bengal	8.5	10	9
10.	Uttar Pradesh	9.3	12.3	9.8

Factors Affecting Unemployment Rate

Here are the key factors affecting the unemployment rate:

Economic Growth: Slow economic growth leads to fewer job opportunities.
Industrial Development: Lack of industries restricts job creation.
Skill Mismatch: A gap between job requirements and available skills among the workforce.
Population Growth: Rapid population growth increases the number of job seekers.
Education and Training: Inadequate education and training programs reduce employability.
Government Policies: Ineffective labor policies can hinder job creation.
Seasonal Employment: Reliance on agriculture leads to seasonal unemployment.

Mumbai Clinches 15th Irani Cup Title After 27-Year Wait

Irani cup title finally returning to Mumbai after the drought of 27 years. Ajinkya Rahane led reigning Ranji champion team has drawn the match after taking the first innings lead against the Rest of India in a 5 day match. In which they stood victorious due to courtesy of the first innings lead.

Final Summary

First Innings :

After losing the toss Mumbai has been invited to bat first. Early half an hour was challenging for the Ranji champions.
After 37 per 3, healthy partnership between Shreyas Iyer and Captain Rahane. After Iyer got out Sarfaraz Khan a young Indian batting sensation came to bat and scored the magnificent double century which took Mumbai to the total of 537 all out.

Second Innings :

Rest of India came to bat Abhimanyu Easwaran fighting knock of 191 was not sufficient to pass the score of Mumbai and he was only supported by Dhruv Jurel who scored 93, excluding these two no player survived on the pitch for the long time and scored 416 runs.

Third Innings :

After taking the first innings lead Mumbai scored 329 after losing 8 wickets. Opener Prithvi Shaw scored 76 runs and lower order batter and spinner Tanush Kotian scored a nice century and the match was drawn on the last day of the test match.

Winner : Mumbai (Due to first Innings lead)

Player of the Match : Sarfaraz Khan (Double centurion in first innings)

About Irani Trophy

The Irani Cup, also known as the IDFC First Bank Irani Trophy for sponsorship reasons, is an annual one-off First-Class cricket match organized by the BCCI and contested each season by the reigning Ranji Trophy champions and a multi-state RoI team composed of players from the other state teams.
The inaugural edition was played in March 1960 as a special event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Ranji Trophy.
It was intended to be a one-off match but, in 1962, BCCI decided to institute it as an annual fixture and it has been played in most seasons since 1962–63.
BCCI named the Irani Trophy after Zal R. Irani, their long-serving president and treasurer, who was a significant figure in the organization from its inception in 1928, till his death in 1970.

Most Successful Irani Trophy winning Teams

Rest of India – 30 times
Mumbai – 15 times
Karnataka – 6 times
Delhi – 2 times
Railways- 2 times
Vidarbha – 2 times

Irani Cup Winners Last 3 years

2024/25 – Mumbai
2023/24 – Rest of India
2022/23 – Rest of India (Final against MP 2022-23)
2022/23 – Rest of India (Final against Saurashtra 2019-20)

(2022/23 edition Played twice due to the suspension in COVID years)

Veteran Actor Mohanraj, Iconic ‘Keerikkadan Jose’, Passes Away at 70

Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanraj, famed for his unforgettable villainous role as “Keerikkadan Jose’‘ in the classic film Kireedam, passed away on October 3, 2024, at his residence in Kanjirankulam. Known for his remarkable contributions to the Malayalam film industry, Mohanraj’s demise was confirmed by actor-director P Dinesh Panicker on Facebook, where he reminisced about their collaboration in various films. Mohanraj’s portrayal of ‘Keerikkadan Jose’ solidified his status as a sought-after villain, a legacy that will remain in the hearts of audiences and the film fraternity.

Early Life and Career Breakthrough

Originally an enforcement officer, Mohanraj made his cinematic debut in Moonnam Mura in 1988, but it was his role in Kireedam that catapulted him to fame. Director Sibi Malayil vividly recalled the moment they cast him, noting how Mohanraj embodied the character even before the film’s release.

A Lasting Legacy

Over a career spanning more than three decades, Mohanraj acted in over 300 films across various languages, including memorable performances in Chenkol, Narasimham, and Spadikam. His ability to resonate with audiences through powerful portrayals made him a beloved figure in the industry.

Tributes from the Film Community

The news of his passing prompted heartfelt tributes from colleagues, including Mohanlal and Mammootty, who acknowledged the unique distinction of being known by a character’s name as a mark of an accomplished actor. Both the Chief Minister of Kerala and the State Cultural Affairs Minister expressed their condolences, reflecting the profound impact Mohanraj had on Malayalam cinema.

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Military Expenditure 2024

Military spending is a crucial factor in determining the defense capabilities and geopolitical influence of a nation. Countries invest significant portions of their GDP to ensure national security, develop advanced technologies, and maintain a robust military presence. Here’s a look at the top 10 countries with the highest military expenditures globally.

Global Military Expenditure

According to SIPRI, global military spending has grown by 6.8%, reaching $2,443 billion. This is the highest increase since 2009, with military budgets rising in all five regions of the world. Military spending now makes up 2.3% of the world’s total economy. This rise shows that countries are investing more in their defense and military forces.

Largest Country in terms of Military Expenditure as of 2024

As of 2024, the United States is the largest country in military spending, with a budget of $916 billion. This amount represents 3.4% of its gross domestic product (GDP). The U.S. invests heavily in its military to maintain its global presence, enhance national security, and develop advanced technologies. This significant expenditure reflects the country’s commitment to its defense and military capabilities.

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Military Spending as of 2024

United States of America, with the military expenditure of $916 billion, stands as the largest country in terms of military expenditure, followed by China, Russia and India.

Here is the list of top-10 countries with the highest military spending 2024:

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Military Spending 2024
Rank	Country	Spending in USD (billion)	Spending as a share of GDP (in %)
1.	United States of America	$916 b	3.4%
2.	China	$296 b	1.7%
3.	Russia	$109 b	5.9%
4.	India	$83.6 b	2.4%
5.	Saudi Arabia	$75.8 b	7.1%
6.	United Kingdom	$74.9 b	2.3%
7.	Germany	$66.8 b	1.5%
8.	Ukraine	$64.8 b	37%
9.	France	$61.3 b	2.1%
10.	Japan	$50.2 b	1.2%

Position of India in Military Expenditure

India spent $83.6 billion on its military, making it the fourth-largest military spender in the world, according to SIPRI. This increase was mainly due to higher costs for personnel and operations, which made up nearly 80% of the total budget. The government is focusing on improving its military readiness because of ongoing tensions with China and Pakistan.

Ahmedabad Police Unveils AI-Enhanced Command and Control Centre

To enhance citizen safety, Ahmedabad Police is establishing a state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre equipped with advanced technologies, marking a significant upgrade in public security measures. This initiative reflects a growing trend in urban policing that integrates modern technology for improved operational efficiency and crime control.

Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities

The centre will feature three monitors for each officer, allowing simultaneous surveillance of three locations. This setup aims to bolster operational efficiency, particularly in monitoring criminal activities through CCTV.

AI-Powered Surveillance

A notable aspect of this facility is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The AI system will enable the police to track social media for potential threats and identify suspects swiftly. It will assist in monitoring suspicious activities in real-time, thus improving crime prevention efforts.

Improved Criminal Tracking

In cases where a suspect flees in a vehicle, AI will utilize video analytics to identify license plates, even when they are not clearly visible. Furthermore, if a wanted criminal is spotted in the city, the AI system will aid in tracking their movements effectively.

Capacity and Inauguration

The centre is designed to accommodate approximately 1,000 officers, enhancing CCTV monitoring capabilities and streamlining criminal investigations. The inauguration is scheduled for October 3, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in attendance. This modern facility aims to significantly bolster city safety and improve police effectiveness, aligning with contemporary approaches to law enforcement.

ADB Approves $162 Million Loan to Boost Sustainable Tourism Development

On October 2, 2024, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a $162 million loan to enhance tourism development in Himachal Pradesh. This funding, aimed at reviving the tourism economy in the five districts severely affected by the pandemic—Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla—will support the Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism Development Project. The project targets the promotion of heritage and cultural sites while developing new infrastructure, ultimately unlocking the state’s tourism potential.

Key Initiatives for Tourism Enhancement

The project focuses on several key initiatives:

Restoration of Heritage Sites: It includes the restoration of Naggar Castle in Kullu and the promotion of cultural sites in Mandi and Hamirpur.
Infrastructure Development: Improvements will be made to public spaces, along with the construction of a new convention center in Kangra. Upgrades along major travel routes will incorporate environmentally friendly technologies like solar-powered lighting and electric vehicles.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

A significant aspect of the project is improving accessibility for vulnerable groups:

Facilities for All: The initiatives aim to enhance accessibility for the elderly, women, children, and people with disabilities. New wellness centers, recreational facilities, an adventure sports hub, and a water park complex are planned to promote inclusivity.

Strengthening Tourism Management

ADB’s support also extends to enhancing the institutional capacity of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Board:

Strategic Development: The project will assist the board in creating a comprehensive tourism strategy and marketing plan, along with effective management of tourist sites by district-level authorities.

Previous ADB Loans to India

This loan is part of ADB’s broader support for India:

In May 2024, ADB sanctioned a $2.6 billion loan for various urban development and climate resilience projects.
In July 2024, a $240.5 million loan was approved to finance the expansion of solar rooftop systems, demonstrating ADB’s commitment to sustainable development across India.

Asian Development Bank (ADB) : Key Points

Type: Regional multilateral institution.

Focus: Asia-Pacific region.

Founded: December 19, 1966, with 31 founding member countries, including India.

Current Membership: 68 members (49 from Asia-Pacific, 19 from outside the region).

Headquarters: Mandaluyong City, Philippines.

President: Masatsugu Asakawa.

Nepal, India, and Bangladesh Sign Historic Electricity Trade Agreement

Nepal, India, and Bangladesh have recently entered into a significant tripartite agreement aimed at facilitating cross-border electricity trade, marking a notable step in regional energy cooperation. This agreement allows Nepal to export its surplus electricity to Bangladesh via India during the rainy season, specifically from June 15 to November 15 each year. In the initial phase, Nepal is set to export 40 MW of hydroelectricity, leveraging India’s infrastructure for transmission. The agreed rate per unit of electricity is fixed at 6.4 cents, with Nepal expected to generate approximately USD 9.2 million annually from this trade.

Key Details of the Agreement

Export Duration: Surplus electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh will be exported during the rainy season from June 15 to November 15 each year.

Electricity Volume: The initial phase will see an export of 40 MW of hydroelectricity.

Financial Implications: Nepal is anticipated to earn around USD 9.2 million annually from the electricity exports.

Signatories: The agreement was signed in Kathmandu by NEA Executive Director Kulman Ghising, NTPC Vidyut Byapar Nigam CEO Deino Naran, and Bangladesh Power Development Board Chairman Mohamad Rizwan Karim, with the presence of Nepal’s Energy Minister Dipak Khadka and Bangladeshi counterpart Sayeda Rijwana Hasan.

Broader Implications

This agreement not only strengthens energy ties among the three nations but also paves the way for further regional cooperation in energy sustainability and infrastructure development, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing energy needs and promoting economic growth in South Asia.

13,822 Jan Aushadhi Kendras Established Nationwide

The government has established 13,822 Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) till 30th September of 2024. These Kendras have also achieved record sales of 200 Crore rupees in the last month, which is the highest monthly sales in the history of the PMBJP.

Key Points

Establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras :

As of September 30, 2024, a total of 13,822 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been established across India.
These Kendras provide affordable medicines to citizens, promoting accessible healthcare.

Record Sales Achievement :

In September 2024, the Kendras achieved record sales of ₹200 Crores, marking the highest monthly sales in the program’s history.
This reflects a 42% increase from ₹141 Crores in September 2023, showcasing significant year-on-year growth.

Financial Impact :

Over the past 10 years, medicines worth ₹6,100 crores have been sold through Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
This has resulted in estimated savings of ₹30,000 crores for citizens compared to branded medicines.

Affordability and Pricing Policy :

Medicines under PMBJP are priced at a maximum of 50% of the average price of the top three branded medicines.
Jan Aushadhi Medicines, surgical devices, and nutraceutical products are cheaper by at least 50%, with some items priced 80% to 90% lower than branded counterparts.

Growth and Future Targets :

As of September 2024, there has been a 31.20% growth in total annual sales, with a sales target of ₹913.30 crores already achieved.
Approximately 10 lakh people purchase medicines daily from Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
The initiative is progressing rapidly towards achieving the target of 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras across India.

About PMBJP

Objective

To make available quality medicines, consumables and surgical items at affordable prices for all and reduce out of pocket expenditure of consumers/patients.
To popularize generic medicines among the masses and eliminate the notion that low priced generic medicines are of inferior quality or are less effective.
Generate employment by engaging individual entrepreneurs in the opening of JanaushadhiKendras.

Implementing Agency

Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) is the implementing agency of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
PMBI was established in December, 2008 under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India.

Aviral Jain Joins RBI as Executive Director

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Aviral Jain as Executive Director (ED) with effect from October 01, 2024. Prior to being promoted to ED, Jain was serving as Regional Director for Maharashtra. As Executive Director, he will look after the several departments for the smooth functioning of RBI.

Professional Experience of Jain

Shri Jain is a post-graduate in economics.
He also holds Certificates in AML / KYC (Anti Money Laundering/Know Your Customer) and Capital Markets and is a Certified Associate of IIBF.
Aviral Jain brings over three decades of experience in various key areas.
Which include Supervision, Currency Management, Foreign Exchange Regulation and Human Resource Management.

Responsibilities as ED

As Executive Director, Jain will oversee,

Legal Department: Managing legal affairs and compliance within the RBI.
Premises Department: Responsible for the management and maintenance of RBI’s physical infrastructure.
Right to Information Act (RTI): Serving as the First Appellate Authority for RTI applications, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Significance of the Appointment

Jain’s extensive experience within RBI positions him well to contribute to the bank’s strategic initiatives and governance.
His role will be crucial in ensuring effective legal and operational management within the central bank.

About Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

The Reserve Bank of India, abbreviated as the RBI, is the Central Bank of India, meaning it is the apex body in the Indian financial system.
It is owned by the Union Ministry of Finance.
It acts as a regulatory body, responsible for the regulation of the Indian banking system as well as the control, issuing, and maintaining money supply in the Indian economy.

Objectives of Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

To regulate the issue of banknotes.
To maintain reserves with a view to securing monetary stability and to operate the credit and currency system of the country to its advantage.
To maintain price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth.

Key Facts about RBI

The first Governor of the RBI was Sir Osborne Smith (1935-37).
The first Indian Governor of the RBI was C.D. Deshmukh (1943-49)
Manmohan Singh is the only Prime Minister of India who, till now, has also served as the Governor of the RBI.
The emblem of the RBI is a Tiger and a Palm Tree.

Power Finance Corporation Secures Record USD 1.265 Billion Loan

PFC (Power Finance Corporation), a Maharatna company and leading NBFC in the Indian power and infrastructure sector, announced the successful closing of issuance of the largest-ever foreign currency term loan from an Indian PSU amounting to USD 1.265 billion. This landmark transaction was executed through a facility agreement with multiple banks based in IFSC GIFT City, Gandhinagar.

Objective of the Loan

The loan will primarily finance assets other than thermal generation projects, aligning with PFC’s commitment to promoting renewable energy.
It aims to support PFC in expanding its operations, enhancing market presence, diversifying funding sources, and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

Loan Details

The loan features a floating interest rate, currently at an average rate of 4.21% per annum.
It is denominated in G3 currencies: USD, EUR, and JPY.
The loan has a 5-year tenor and is linked to external benchmark rates, including:
SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate) for USD.
EURIBOR (Euro Interbank Offered Rate) for EUR.
TONA (Tokyo Overnight Average) for JPY.

Banking Partners

The major bankers involved in this issuance include SBI, IDBI, Axis Bank, MUFG, Deutsche Bank, and SMBC.
SBI served as the largest lender and acted as the facility agent for this landmark transaction.

About PFC

Power Finance Corporation Ltd. (PFC) is an Indian central public sector undertaking owned by the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
Established in 1986, it is the financial backbone of the Indian power sector.
PFC has been providing financial assistance to power projects across India including generation, transmission, distribution and RM&U (Renovation, Modernization, and Uprating) projects.
Recently, it began financing other infrastructure projects which have backward linkages to the power sector like coal mine development, fuel transportation, oil & gas pipelines, etc.