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

Chiratae Ventures Honors Narayana Murthy with Patrick J. McGovern Awards

Chiratae Ventures, a prominent Indian venture capital fund, has recognized three influential leaders with the 2024 Patrick J. McGovern Awards. Narayana Murthy, the Founder of Infosys, received the India Lifetime Achievement Award for his groundbreaking contributions to the tech industry.

Shantanu Narayen, Chair and CEO of Adobe, was awarded the Global Lifetime Achievement Award, while Abhinav Asthana, CEO and Founder of Postman, received the Exceptional Entrepreneurial Achievement Award. The awards honor the legacy of Patrick J. McGovern, a pioneer in technology media and an early supporter of Indian entrepreneurship.

Background of the Awards

Established in 2016, the Patrick J. McGovern Awards celebrate the impact of leaders in technology and entrepreneurship. They commemorate McGovern’s significant role in shaping the global tech landscape and supporting India’s entrepreneurial potential.

Achievements of the Honorees

Narayana Murthy: As the founder of Infosys, he transformed the company into a leading global IT services provider and was pivotal in democratizing wealth by distributing significant equity to employees.

Shantanu Narayen: Under his leadership, Adobe transitioned from a desktop-centric model to a cloud-based platform, emphasizing innovation and customer focus.

Abhinav Asthana: His leadership at Postman has established the company as a leader in API development and collaboration, marking a significant impact on the SaaS industry.

Legacy and Impact

The 2024 awards recognize not only individual achievements but also the collective influence of these leaders on the Indian and global tech ecosystems. As Sudhir Sethi, Founder and Chairman of Chiratae Ventures, noted, these honorees embody a unique blend of technological vision and entrepreneurial talent, continuing the legacy of Patrick J. McGovern in inspiring innovation and progress in the tech industry.

2024 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)

The 2024 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report highlights the alarming interconnections between violent conflict and multidimensional poverty across various nations. According to the report, approximately 1.1 billion people live in acute multidimensional poverty, with 455 million residing in conflict-affected regions.

The analysis emphasizes that these areas see higher poverty rates and slower progress in poverty reduction. The report was jointly published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and includes updated data from 112 countries and over 1,359 subnational regions.

Key Findings

Child Poverty: Over half (584 million) of the impoverished population are children under 18, indicating a severe impact on the youth, with 27.9% of children living in poverty compared to 13.5% of adults.

Basic Needs: Many poor individuals lack essential resources, including adequate sanitation (828 million), housing (886 million), and cooking fuel (998 million).

Nutrition: Over 637 million people live in households with at least one undernourished individual, with South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa being significantly affected.

Conflict Impact

The report underscores that countries experiencing conflict show significantly higher deprivation across all ten MPI indicators. For instance, over 25% of the poor in conflict-affected areas lack access to electricity compared to just over 5% in stable regions. This disparity is also evident in child education (17.7% in conflict areas vs. 4.4% in stable areas) and nutrition (20.8% in conflict vs. 7.2% in peaceful regions).

Slow Progress

Countries affected by protracted conflict see a reversal or stagnation in poverty reduction. The case study of Afghanistan reveals that 64.9% of the population was impoverished in 2022/23, with 5.3 million more people falling into poverty from 2015/16 to 2022/23. This trend highlights the critical need for resources and interventions in these regions to break the cycle of poverty and conflict.

Global Trends

Since the inception of the MPI in 2010, it has served as an essential tool for identifying vulnerable populations. The report reflects on the achievements and ongoing challenges in poverty reduction, emphasizing the urgent need for investment in peace to effectively address poverty.

Indicators and cutoffs

Dimension	Indicators	Deprivation Cutoffs
Health	Child mortality	Deprived if a child under the age of 18 years has died in the family in the five years preceding the survey.
Nutrition	Undernourishment	Deprived if any adult or child, for whom there is nutritional information, is undernourished.
Education	Years of schooling	Deprived if no household member has completed six years of schooling.
	School attendance	Deprived if no household member aged ‘school entrance age + six’ years or older has completed six years of schooling.
Standard of Living	Cooking fuel	Deprived if the household cooks with dung, wood, or charcoal.
	Sanitation	Deprived if the household’s sanitation facility is either not improved (according to MDG guidelines), is shared with other households, or both.
	Drinking water	Deprived if the household does not have access to improved drinking water (according to MDG guidelines) or improved drinking water is more than a 30-minute walk from home.
	Electricity	Deprived if the household has no electricity.
	Housing	Deprived if at least one of the three housing materials for roof, walls, and floor are inadequate: the floor is of natural materials and/or the roof and/or walls are of natural or rudimentary materials.
	Assets	Deprived if the household does not own more than one of these assets: radio, TV, telephone, computer, animal cart, bicycle, motorbike, or refrigerator and does not own a car or truck.

Fictional Example: Country X

Indicator	Weight	Person A	Person B	Person C
1	1/6	0%	0%	0%
2	1/6	0%	0%	0%
3	1/6	100%	100%	0%
4	1/6	0%	100%	0%
5	1/18	0%	100%	100%
6	1/18	0%	100%	100%
7	1/18	0%	0%	100%
8	1/18	100%	100%	100%
9	1/18	100%	0%	100%
10	1/18	100%	0%	0%
Weighted Score		33.33%	50.00%	27.78%
Status		MPI poor (≥ 33%)	MPI poor (≥ 33%)	Not MPI poor (< 33%)

MPI Calculations for Country X

Factor H:
$\frac{1 + 1 + 0}{3} = 0.667$
Factor A:
$\frac{33.33\% + 50.00\%}{2} = 0.417$
MPI for Country X:
$MPI=0.667×0.417=0.278\text{MPI} = 0.667 \times 0.417 = 0.278$

Top-10 Most Valuable Food Brands in 2024, Check the List

Some food brands have become extremely valuable due to their popularity and strong market presence. These brands are recognized worldwide for their delicious products and quality. From snacks and drinks to fast food, they have earned a special place in people’s lives. Here’s a look at the top 10 most valuable food brands that continue to lead the industry this year.

Most Valuable Food Brands in 2024

The most valuable food brand in 2024 is Nestlé. Known worldwide, it offers a wide range of products like chocolates, baby food, and coffee. Famous items such as KitKat and Nescafé help maintain its strong market presence. With a focus on quality and innovation, Nestlé continues to grow and remains a trusted name in the global food industry, making it the top brand this year.

Top-10 Most Valuable Food Brands in 2024

Nestle of Switzerland, with the revenue of $20,769 million, holds the title of the most valuable food brand in 2024, followed by Lay’s, Yili and Tyson.

Here is the list of top-10 most valuable food brands in 2024:

Most Valuable Food Brands in 2024
Rank	Brand Name	Country	Revenue (in million dollars)
1.	Nestle	Switzerland	$20,769
2.	Lay’s	United States	$12,021
3.	Yili	China	$11,606
4.	Tyson	United States	$8,266
5.	Danone	France	$8,026
6.	Quaker	United States	$7,543
7.	Kellogg’s	United States	$6,092
8.	Wrigley	United States	$6,021
9.	Mengniu	China	$5,417
10.	Doritos	United States	$4,636

World’s Most Valuable Food Brand – Nestle

Nestlé, based in Switzerland, is the world’s most valuable food brand in 2024, with a revenue of $20,769 million. Known for its wide range of products, Nestlé offers everything from baby foods and bottled water to chocolates and coffee. Its popular brands include Nescafé, KitKat, and Maggi, making it a household name globally.

Second Most Valuable Food Brand – Lay’s

Lay’s, an American brand, ranks as the second most valuable food brand in 2024, with $12,021 million in revenue. Famous for its potato chips, Lay’s offers a variety of flavors that cater to different tastes worldwide. As a part of PepsiCo, the brand is a favorite for snack lovers and often associated with fun and relaxation.

Third Most Valuable Food Brand – Yili

Yili, a leading Chinese dairy company, ranks third among the world’s most valuable food brands in 2024, with $11,606 million in revenue. The company provides a variety of dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and ice cream. Known for its quality, Yili is a trusted brand in China and expanding its reach internationally.

FATF Tightens Grey Listing Rules with New Risk-Based Focus

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has introduced significant changes to its criteria for placing countries on its grey list, aiming to relieve the burden on least developed countries (LDCs) while targeting nations that pose greater risks to the international financial system.

Purpose of FATF

FATF identifies jurisdictions with deficiencies in their systems to fight money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.
These weaknesses enable illicit financial flows, which fuel crimes like human trafficking, child exploitation, and terrorism.

Impact on Least Developed Countries (LDCs)

Illicit financial flows harm LDCs the most by diverting funds away from essential services such as education and healthcare, hindering sustainable development.
Depriving criminals of their illegal gains helps build more robust economies and societies in these nations.

FATF’s Revised Criteria

The changes prioritize active reviews of countries that meet specific risk criteria, focusing on FATF Members.
Countries on the World Bank’s High-Income Countries list (excluding those with only two or fewer banks in the financial sector).
Countries with financial sector assets above USD 10 billion.
Least developed countries will not be prioritized unless they pose significant risks related to money laundering or terrorist financing.

Extended Observation Period for LDCs

LDCs that are subject to review will have a longer observation period (up to two years) to make progress on their Key Recommended Action roadmap.
This gives them more time to address deficiencies and strengthen their systems.

Impact of Reforms

The FATF expects these changes to reduce by half the number of low-capacity countries listed in future assessments.
This allows for more targeted efforts on high-risk countries, improving the efficiency of global efforts to combat financial crime.

Background on FATF’s Grey Listing Process

The grey list identifies countries with strategic weaknesses in their Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) systems.
Countries on the grey list work with experts in a peer-led process to address these deficiencies through a tailored action plan.
The goal is to strengthen the listed countries’ defenses against financial crime, benefitting both the country and the global financial system.

FATF Grey’s List

Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Croatia, Congo, Haiti, Kenya, Mali, Monaco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Philippines, Senegal, South Africa, South Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Venezuela, Vietnam and Yemen.

About FATF

FATF is an intergovernmental policy-making and standard-setting body dedicated to combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

Objective

To establish international standards, and to develop and promote policies, both at national and international levels, to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

Origin

It was established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in Paris to develop policies against money laundering.
In 2001, its mandate expanded to include terrorism financing.

Headquarters : Paris, France.

Members

To become a member, a country must be considered strategically important (large population, large GDP, developed banking and insurance sector, etc.), must adhere to globally accepted financial standards, and be a participant in other important international organizations.
FATF members include 39 countries, including the United States, India, China, Saudi Arabia, Britain, Germany, France, and the EU as such.
India became a member of FATF in 2010.
The FATF researches how money is laundered and terrorism is funded, promotes global standards to mitigate the risks, and assesses whether countries are taking effective action.
Once a member, a country or organization must endorse and support the most recent FATF recommendations, commit to being evaluated by (and evaluating) other members.
The FATF holds countries to account that do not comply with the FATF Standards.
If a country repeatedly fails to implement FATF Standards, then it can be named a Jurisdiction under Increased Monitoring or a High-Risk Jurisdiction. These are often externally referred to as “the grey and black lists”.

Black List

Countries known as Non-Cooperative Countries or Territories (NCCTs) are put on the blacklist.
These countries support terror funding and money laundering activities.
The FATF revises the blacklist regularly, adding or deleting entries.
Three countries-North Korea, Iran, and Myanmar are currently in FATF’s blacklist.

Grey List

Countries that are considered a safe haven for supporting terror funding and money laundering are put on the FATF grey list.
This inclusion serves as a warning to the country that it may enter the blacklist.

Mohanji Receives Prestigious 2024 Humanitarian Award

On September 19, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mohanji, a global humanitarian leader, received a special recognition for his worldwide contributions at the 9th Conscious Companies Awards event. This prestigious annual event honors ethical and visionary leaders whose work fosters conscious leadership, aligns people, profit, and purpose, and promotes a better, more sustainable world.

Key Highlights of the Event

About Event

The Conscious Companies Awards is an annual ceremony that honors ethical leadership and promotes corporate responsibility.
It celebrates leaders who align their organizations with values that serve all stakeholders and aim to create a better, more sustainable Earth.
It is a coveted badge of honor in recognition and celebration of visionary, ethical leaders who steer their organizations to create conscious leadership capacity and align people, planet, profit and purpose in service of all stakeholders as well as to advocate ethical behavior in creating a better planet for all.
Each year, the conscious business community around South Africa turn their attention to the Conscious Companies Awards.
Interest and anticipation builds leading up to the gala dinner awards evening, when finalists attend the glamorous ceremony and learn who will receive the honor of being a Conscious Company.

Mohanji’s Award

Mohanji received a special award for his global humanitarian leadership.
The award recognizes his teachings on compassion, kindness, and non-violence, which have impacted thousands of lives in over 90 countries.
His core philosophy, “Be You,” empowers individuals to raise awareness and adopt conscious living practices.

Organiser’s Tribute

Brenda Kali, founder of Conscious Companies, introduced Mohanji and shared her personal journey of meeting him after years of searching for genuine humanitarian and spiritual guides.
A video was shown highlighting Mohanji’s milestones and the impact of his global initiatives and organizations.

Mohanji’s Speech

Mohanji thanked the organizers and jury for the recognition.
He stressed the importance of utilizing one’s “effective years” to make meaningful contributions to the world.
Mohanji spoke about the significance of contentment, linking it to clarity of purpose and personal stability.

Impact of the Event

The event served as a platform for forging new connections and reinforcing existing ones.
Leaders united with a shared mission of transforming “humankind to kind humans” by contributing positively to the world.

About Mohanji Foundation

The Mohanji Foundation began as a spontaneous gathering of individuals deeply touched by their personal experiences with Mohanji.
Over time, under his guidance and vision, it has organically developed into a global community. The Foundation is dedicated to leading people toward a liberated existence, free from the constraints of the mind, through increased awareness, self-acceptance, and the nurturing of universal values such as truth, purity, compassion, non-violence, and unconditional love.

Key Highlights of the Mohanji Foundation

Vision

The Foundation’s core vision is to help individuals achieve a liberated state of existence by fostering self-awareness and cultivating universal values.
All activities are driven by the motto: “Adding Value to the World.”

Global Reach

The Mohanji Foundation is formally registered in 15 countries across five continents, with activities spanning over 80 countries.
The headquarters of the Mohanji International Foundation is located in Switzerland, operating under the direct supervision of the Swiss federal government.

Programs and Reach

The Foundation’s transformative programs extend across various sectors, including schools, colleges, corporations, hospitals, and prisons.
Millions of people have benefited from the impactful techniques and practices provided by Mohanji, which are conducted by trained acharyas and volunteers.

Haryana CM Saini Fulfills First Poll Promise: Free Dialysis for Kidney Patients

In a significant move, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has fulfilled his first poll promise by announcing that all government hospitals in the state will provide free dialysis to chronic kidney patients. This decision was made during his inaugural cabinet meeting after the BJP’s return to power for a third consecutive term, where Saini emphasized the people’s mandate against Congress’ narrative during the elections.

Free Dialysis Announcement

Saini highlighted that the decision to offer free dialysis services is aimed at alleviating the financial burden on patients, who typically incur monthly costs between ₹20,000 to ₹25,000. “The first file I signed was regarding this decision. The Haryana government will now bear these expenses,” he stated.

Commitment to Development

At the press conference, Saini reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering marginalized communities, including the poor, youth, farmers, and women. He reiterated that Haryana would play a pivotal role in achieving a ‘Viksit Bharat.’ He also warned criminals in the state, urging them to change their ways.

Key Achievements and Initiatives

Paddy Procurement: Over ₹3,056 crore has been credited to farmers’ accounts, with more than 23 lakh metric tonnes of paddy procured at the minimum support price (MSP).

Job Creation: The government has created approximately 25,000 jobs, which has been described as a Diwali gift for the youth of Haryana.

Reservation Policy: Saini announced the state’s intent to implement the Supreme Court’s decision regarding sub-classifications within the Scheduled Castes for reservation purposes.

Indian Coast Guard Conducts ‘Sagar Kavach’ Coastal Security Drill

The Indian Coast Guard successfully conducted the coastal security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ on October 16-17, covering Gujarat, Daman & Diu, as well as Goa and Maharashtra. The exercise aimed to enhance coastal and maritime security, improve coordination among agencies, and test existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in response to potential threats such as infiltration and smuggling. It involved a wide range of stakeholders, including the Indian Navy, State Police, Marine Police, and port authorities.

Objective of the Exercise

‘Sagar Kavach’ focused on sharpening maritime security preparedness through multi-agency drills, simulating real-life scenarios to validate operational coordination among stakeholders.

Participation and Assets

The exercise included active participation from agencies like the Navy, Border Security Force (BSF), National Security Guard (NSG), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and others, utilizing ships, boats, drones, and aircraft for surveillance.

Strategic Importance

The exercise demonstrated India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests, evolving communication plans, and addressing potential security gaps along the coastline through enhanced awareness and collaboration among maritime agencies.

Sagar Kavach coastal security exercise

Objective: The primary aim of Sagar Kavach is to enhance maritime and coastal security preparedness, validate existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and ensure coordinated response to various maritime threats.

Conduct: The exercise is conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and has seen two editions in 2024, with recent drills held on October 16-17 across Gujarat, Daman & Diu, and earlier along the coasts of Goa and Maharashtra.

Coordination: Sagar Kavach involves collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including:

Indian Navy
State Police
Marine Police
Border Security Force (BSF)
National Security Guard (NSG)
Intelligence Bureau (IB)
Port authorities and local government departments

Assets Utilized: The exercise employs various assets, including:

Ships and boats from the Indian Coast Guard and Navy
Drones and aircraft for aerial surveillance

Operational Scenarios: Realistic scenarios are simulated during the exercise, including:

Infiltration attempts
Smuggling operations
Piracy
Natural disasters
Terrorist threats

Focus on Communication: The exercise emphasizes developing a unified coastal security communication plan and fostering awareness and information sharing among different agencies.

Outcome: The initiative aims to achieve 100% effective patrolling along the coastline, identify security gaps, and interdict potential infiltrators, thereby ensuring the protection of India’s maritime interests.

Indian Coast Guard: Key Points

Formation: Established on February 1, 1977, under the Ministry of Defence.

Role: Protects India’s maritime interests and enforces maritime law, including anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and environmental protection.

Operational Areas: Indian territorial waters, including its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), extending up to 200 nautical miles from the coast.

Motto: “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect).

Headquarters: New Delhi.

Key Operations: Coastal surveillance, search and rescue, marine pollution control, and collaboration with Navy and other agencies.

Personnel: Approximately 15,000 active members.

Fleet: Over 150 ships and boats, with more than 60 aircraft.

Notable Exercises: ‘Sagar Kavach’ for coastal security and ‘Operation Olivia’ for sea turtle protection.

Current Director General: Rakesh Pal (as of 2024).

Acko Appoints Sandip Goenka as CEO of ACKO Life

Acko has appointed Sandip Goenka as the CEO of its newly launched life insurance division, ACKO Life. As a founding member of the division, Sandip has been pivotal in establishing the D2C life insurance business. With over two decades of experience in life, health, general insurance, and consulting, he brings significant expertise to drive growth and operational efficiency. Sandip’s previous roles include CFO at Exide Life Insurance and leadership positions at TATA AIA and EY. His knowledge in actuarial sciences, M&As, and cross-cultural business management will be instrumental in Acko Life’s expansion.

Key Responsibilities

In his new role, Sandip will oversee customer strategy, financial performance, operational efficiency, investor relations, and corporate governance. His leadership will guide the development of product offerings and long-term growth strategies for ACKO Life.

Industry Impact

Sandip’s appointment marks Acko’s commitment to strengthening its life insurance business, capitalizing on his extensive experience across global markets, including India, the UK, and Singapore.

Leadership Expertise

As a qualified actuary and an alumnus of Columbia Business School’s executive program, Sandip’s appointment is expected to enhance Acko’s presence in the life insurance sector, solidifying its customer-centric and growth-driven approach.

Key Points about ACKO Life

Business Launch: ACKO Life is the newly launched life insurance division of insurtech company ACKO.

D2C Model: Operates as a Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) life insurance provider.

CEO: Sandip Goenka, a founding member, was appointed as the CEO in 2024.

Focus Areas: Offers innovative, customer-centric life insurance products designed for the evolving needs of Indian consumers.

Leadership Expertise: Sandip Goenka brings 20+ years of experience in life, health, general insurance, reinsurance, and insurance consulting.

Product Strategy: Focus on operational efficiency, product development, financial performance, and long-term growth.

Company Vision: Committed to leveraging technology to expand its life insurance presence with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and corporate governance.

Global Experience: Leadership draws from expertise in markets like India, UK, and Singapore.

Expansion Plans: ACKO Life is set to grow under Goenka’s leadership with a focus on strategic business management and investor relations.

Rajkumar Hirani Honoured with National Kishore Kumar Award 2023

In a heartwarming tribute to the legacy of legendary singer and actor Kishore Kumar, the renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani was conferred with the prestigious National Kishore Kumar Award for the year 2023. The award ceremony took place in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, the birthplace of Kishore Kumar, on the occasion of the 37th death anniversary of the iconic singer. This award, instituted by the Madhya Pradesh Government’s Department of Culture, celebrates artists who have significantly contributed to Indian cinema in various fields, much like Kishore Kumar himself.

The Ceremony in Khandwa: A Tribute to Kishore Kumar

The award was presented to Rajkumar Hirani at a special event organized in Khandwa, marking the 37th anniversary of Kishore Kumar’s passing. Kishore Kumar, born in Khandwa, is remembered as one of the greatest playback singers and multifaceted artists in the history of Indian cinema. The ceremony was attended by Kunwar Vijay Shah, Madhya Pradesh’s Cabinet Minister for Tribal Affairs and Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation, who handed over the award to Hirani.

The ceremony was steeped in reverence for Kishore Kumar’s life and achievements. Hirani, who has delivered some of the most successful films in Bollywood, paid a personal tribute to the legend by visiting Kishore Kumar’s Samadhi in Khandwa before the event. He laid flowers and offered his respects to one of India’s most beloved cultural icons.

The Legacy of Kishore Kumar and the National Award

Kishore Kumar, whose birth name was Abhas Kumar Ganguly, was a towering figure in Indian cinema, known for his exceptional contributions as a singer, actor, lyricist, composer, director, and producer. His diverse talents have left an indelible mark on the film industry, making him an enduring inspiration for generations of artists.

To honor his remarkable contributions, the National Kishore Kumar Award was instituted by the Madhya Pradesh Government’s Department of Culture in 1997. The award is presented annually to eminent artists from fields associated with scriptwriting, film direction, and playback singing, all areas in which Kishore Kumar excelled. This prestigious recognition comes with a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh and celebrates the spirit of creativity and artistic excellence that Kishore Kumar embodied.

Rajkumar Hirani: A Filmmaking Legend

Rajkumar Hirani, one of the most celebrated filmmakers in contemporary Indian cinema, was the deserving recipient of the National Kishore Kumar Award for 2023. Known for his unique storytelling style, Hirani has directed and produced some of the most iconic films in Bollywood, including Munna Bhai MBBS (2003), Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), 3 Idiots (2009), and PK (2014). His films have resonated deeply with audiences, combining humor, emotion, and social messages in a way that sets him apart from his contemporaries.

Receiving the award in Kishore Kumar’s hometown was an emotional moment for Hirani, who expressed his deep admiration for the legendary singer. In his speech, Hirani shared that Kishore Kumar was his favorite singer, and it was a profound honor to receive an award named after someone he holds in such high regard. He reflected on Kishore Kumar’s versatility and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his music and films.

Kishore Kumar’s Connection to Khandwa

Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, holds a special place in the legacy of Kishore Kumar. Born on August 4, 1929, Kishore always maintained a deep connection with his hometown, even though he became a major figure in Mumbai’s film industry. His love for Khandwa was well-known, and it was here that his last rites were performed following his death on October 13, 1987.

The award ceremony in Khandwa is a testament to Kishore Kumar’s enduring legacy in his birthplace. His fans in the region still remember him fondly, and his works continue to inspire many, both within and outside the entertainment industry.

The Importance of the National Kishore Kumar Award

The National Kishore Kumar Award is one of the most prestigious honors in the Indian entertainment industry. By celebrating the artistic excellence of individuals in fields like scriptwriting, direction, and playback singing, it helps keep the legacy of Kishore Kumar alive while also recognizing contemporary talents who contribute to Indian cinema’s growth.

Many notable personalities have received this award over the years, including celebrated Bollywood actors, writers, and directors. This prestigious accolade shines a light on the significant impact these artists have on the cultural landscape of India. Rajkumar Hirani now joins the distinguished list of luminaries who have been honoured with this award.

World Statistics Day 2024, Date, Theme, History and Significance

World Statistics Day is an international celebration held every five years to highlight the significance of statistics in shaping societies, improving lives, and driving informed decision-making. In 2024, the global community will come together on October 20th to commemorate this special day. This celebration underscores the vital role statistics play in fostering sustainable development, promoting transparency, and empowering policymakers across the world.

History and Significance of World Statistics Day

The first World Statistics Day was celebrated on October 20, 2010, following a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. The aim was to raise awareness about the importance of reliable data and statistics in shaping global policies and contributing to the welfare of nations. The celebration occurs every five years, with the 2024 event marking the fourth such occasion.

Why Statistics Matter

Statistics are often referred to as the backbone of modern governance and economics. Accurate, timely, and relevant data is essential for monitoring socio-economic progress, implementing evidence-based policies, and achieving global development goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Without quality statistics, it becomes difficult to measure progress in key areas such as education, health, climate change, and economic growth. Governments, private sectors, and organizations rely on data to track trends, allocate resources effectively, and assess the impact of their programs.

World Statistics Day 2024 Theme

The theme for World Statistics Day 2024, is not yet decided.

Empowering Decision-Makers Through Data

In today’s fast-changing world, decisions need to be made based on reliable and up-to-date information. Statistics provide policymakers with crucial insights into societal trends, population demographics, and economic performance. This enables decision-makers to develop targeted policies that can improve the quality of life, particularly in vulnerable populations.

The 2024 theme highlights the need for data literacy, ensuring that governments, businesses, and even individuals are equipped to interpret and utilize statistics effectively for informed decision-making.

Contributions of International Organizations

International organizations like the United Nations (UN), World Bank, and OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) have consistently promoted the role of statistics in fostering global cooperation and sustainable development. The United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC), established in 1947, plays a pivotal role in setting standards for data collection, processing, and dissemination globally.

World Statistics Day 2024 will also see participation from several statistical agencies around the world, conducting seminars, workshops, and conferences aimed at spreading knowledge on the power of data in transforming societies.

The Role of National Statistical Offices

National statistical offices (NSOs) are at the forefront of collecting and disseminating data. They ensure that statistical data aligns with international standards while addressing the unique economic, social, and geographic needs of their respective countries. On World Statistics Day 2024, NSOs from various nations will showcase how they have leveraged data to tackle national challenges such as food security, income inequality, and natural disasters.

Importance of Data in Achieving the SDGs

A key aspect of World Statistics Day 2024 is its focus on using data to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals encompass a wide range of global challenges, including poverty eradication, climate action, and gender equality.

Measuring Progress Towards the SDGs

To effectively measure progress towards achieving the SDGs by 2030, reliable data and statistics are indispensable. For example, SDG 3, which focuses on good health and well-being, requires comprehensive health data to monitor infant mortality rates, life expectancy, and access to healthcare services. Similarly, SDG 13, which addresses climate action, relies on statistics related to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and renewable energy consumption.

Without proper statistical tracking, it becomes nearly impossible to assess whether global targets are being met or to make course corrections where necessary.

Innovations in Data Collection and Analysis

The 2024 celebration will also shine a spotlight on the latest innovations in data collection and analysis, particularly in the era of big data and artificial intelligence (AI). Advanced technologies are enabling faster and more precise data collection methods, while AI is playing a growing role in analyzing vast datasets to derive actionable insights.

Some key advancements include:

Satellite imagery for tracking environmental changes.
Mobile technology for real-time data collection in remote areas.
AI algorithms for analyzing complex data patterns and trends.

The Future of Statistics

As we look to the future, the role of statistics will only grow in importance. With the world facing unprecedented challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic inequality, there is a greater need for data-driven solutions. Investments in statistical capacity-building, particularly in developing countries, will be crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind in the march toward a more equitable and sustainable world.

Celebrations and Events on World Statistics Day 2024

To mark World Statistics Day 2024, events will be held globally to celebrate the importance of statistics and the people behind the data. These events will include:

Webinars and panel discussions on the role of data in tackling global challenges.
Workshops aimed at improving data literacy and raising awareness about the value of statistics in everyday life.
Conferences that bring together statisticians, economists, policymakers, and data scientists to share best practices and innovations.

Governments, universities, and international organizations will participate in these celebrations, highlighting the achievements and challenges in using data to shape the future.